I Promise You, I Will (Here Come The Brides)
Chapter 5
Gus walked into the meeting room, looked around then smiled when he saw Ray and Ted. Ted was vigorously waving. Gus just smiled as he shook his head. Toward the side of the room, Sean was setting up the refreshments.
“Sean, thank you,” Gus said as he extended his hand toward Sean. “I know this was last minute,” said Gus.
“No worries, Emmett’s a member of the association and we often cater even if we’re not attending,” explained Sean.
“Still, I appreciate this. Um, when does everyone dig in?” Gus whispered.
“When you see me step aside, I suggest you quickly get out of the way,” Sean whispered back with a grin.
“Got it,” said Gus. “Forewarned is forearmed,” he sagely retorted. Gus eyed the beautiful spread, thanked Sean again then walked over to where Ted and Ray were sitting.
“Glad you could make,” said Ted.
“Yeah, sorry about that, last minute call from Pierre, a few more galleries in Germany are showing interest. He wanted assurances that there is enough of a variety of Justin’s work to go around. I think Pierre is still a little confused about how we handle Justin,” Gus explained.
“That’s interesting,” Ted commented. “I don’t think anyone has ever asked that question before.”
“Kinnetik’s role in promoting Justin Taylor has always been a little unique. We’re often the first to start arranging shows. Although Mom is officially Justin’s rep, Sydney still hasn’t totally stepped back and can be very vocal about that fact. There are several pieces in the pie that make up his representation,” explained Gus.
“And then there’s Brian,” said Ted.
“And then there’s Brian,” Gus and Ray repeated.
“Bottom line, no one is totally aware of how many paintings there are in his catalog. I’m not sure if even Mom knows. There’s only one person who truly knows that number and where each piece is located, including the sold items,” Gus admitted.
“Oh, wait, I know this one,” said Ted as he raised his hand. “Brian.” Gus giggled as he nodded.
“Pop showed me several portfolios that he has in a special safe on the lane. The only others who have access to it are John and Bobby, and of course, Justin. Also, no one knows this but when Mom had the Bloom gallery renovated, she had John create a secure room that stores many of Justin’s works but not all of them. Charles has a large cache as well. And the rest are in a vault that Andrea obtained.”
“That’s amazing,” said Ray.
“Why don’t I know this?” asked Ted sporting a frown.
“Because Dad had these plans in mind for a long time but when Andrea came on board with all her security knowledge and contacts, Dad moved fast. He just recently told me because of all the European interest. We may have to move some pieces fast. He’ll loop you in soon, I promise,” Gus reassured Ted. “Now, what’s the topic of discussion for tonight’s meeting?” Gus asked hoping to refocus the conversation.
While Ted filled in Ray and Gus, Sean had put the finishing touches to the refreshment table. Just as he warned, the minute he stepped aside, all that were in attendance swarmed the table. Gus laughed as Sean nearly had to fight his way out of the crowd to get to the door. As Sean waved goodbye, Gus mouthed, “My tab.” Sean nodded with understanding then left the building.
The designated host for the evening was the owner of a local plumbing company. He greeted the attendees and welcomed the newcomers. Then he thanked Kinnetik for providing the refreshments for the evening before starting off their discussion.
“For the benefit of our newcomers, our discussions are very informal. We’re here to network with our fellow business owners and neighbors. This is a safe place to chat, learn, and vent if needed. We share best practices. We’re here to learn from each other’s mistakes and from our successes. Today’s topic is giving back to the community and green spaces.
“I know this is putting you on the spot Mr. Kinney, but can you elaborate a little on the Village and Babylon projects?”
For a moment Gus got that deer in the headlights look then he went into ad man mode.
“Sure, but first, I’m Gus. Mr. Kinney is my grandfather, a man I never knew. Even my dad hates being called Mr. Kinney. Secondly, both of those projects were cooked up by my Uncle John, that’s John Anderson of Anderson Construction and by my dad. They had this dream of buying up abandoned land and derelict buildings then turning them into low cost housing with park land.
“And anyone who knows Brian Kinney and John Anderson, when they have an idea in their heads, my advice would be to get out of the way.” Gus paused to gather his thoughts before continuing.
“I was in high school when the idea for the Village project began. A lot of it had to do with the Jason Kemp Center. From what I remember, a lot of the work was done by Hunter’s grads who had shown interest in the different facets of building; meaning carpentry, electrical engineering, or plumbing,” said Gus as he smiled at their host. “And before any of you get the idea that the structures are unsafe, this was all done under the watchful eyes of master craftsmen and at least one certified teacher. Gordon Smith, John’s business partner, is a qualified teacher of building and architecture. As most of you know, it takes a good mentor to help a newbie hone his craft. That goes for me too.
“In regard to the Village Garden, I think that was born out of necessity,” Gus began, laughing as he told them the tale of Justin and his metal sculptures. “It was more for my father’s sanity than anything else. It also produced jobs; a neighborhood garden center manages the overall maintenance, however they hired several local residents for the day-to-day work. Everyone wins.
“As for the Babylon project, I’ll let my partner, Ray, explain that one,” Gus said while giving Ray an apologetic smile.
Ray waggled a finger at his partner as he stood to give a summary of how the Babylon project got its start and its overall success to date. When he was done, their host called for a break. Gus and Ray headed to the refreshment table.
“Mr. Kinney, Gus, I’m Martin Griffin, Marty. I’m the local police department liaison; we try to attend these meetings on a regular basis. I also have a link to City Hall. If you don’t mind me asking, is it true that you and your sister helped to bust an international human trafficking ring? I understand if it’s too sensitive a topic to talk about, but I’m interested in how it all happened,” said Marty.
“That’s a great question; unfortunately we’ve all been instructed not to talk about it. Parts of the investigation are still ongoing,” Gus said making it very clear that the subject was verboten. “Ask me again in a few months and we’ll see.”
An hour later the meeting adjourned. Between the to-go boxes left by Sean and the volunteer clean up crew, the meeting space was quickly put to right and everyone was on their way out.
“So, what do you think?” Ted asked the boys as they walked to their cars.
“I enjoyed it,” Ray said.
“I’d come back providing we’re in the country,” remarked Gus.
“When do you go back?” asked Ted.
“After the wedding,” replied Gus.
“We want to be there to greet the girls,” commented Ray.
“Pop, Jus and Bree will be flying out as soon as school is over to spend most of the summer. I think a few others may come over but we’ll see. Ted, you’re family, you and Allen are welcome anytime,” Gus assured his friend, mentor, and trusted colleague.
*****
“Wagons ho-o,” Brian shouted out the window of their car. He and Justin had Patrick, Peter, Ashley, and Bree in the back while John and Bobby drove Carl and Debbie. It was Friday afternoon, and the family was on their way to the city for the wedding rehearsal and the dinner after. Brian had arranged suites at the Plaza. The plan was to check in, rest a while, have a light snack before heading over to JR and Jacq’s house for the 7pm rehearsal. After, the whole party would cross the Village to Emmett’s restaurant for a late dinner.
That was the plan until the holiday traffic threw a spanner into the mix. It was well after six when the two vehicles were even close to the Pittsburgh city limits. With a look from Brian, Justin pulled out his phone and called Bobby. The two of them revised their plan. Justin called the hotel while Bobby notified Emmett. Emmett, in turn, would let the girls and the rest of the principal players know. Instead of going to the Plaza, the boys drove directly over to JR and Jacq’s house to drop everyone off so that the rehearsal could begin as close to schedule as possible. Ray and Gus were already there and prepared to be stand-ins if necessary. John, Brian, and Carl took one car to the hotel to check in then hurried back to the Village. They left all the overnight bags in the cars so that anyone who wished to, could freshen up after the rehearsal, and change for dinner. By the time they got back to the house, the rehearsal was just about over.
“All good?” Debbie asked Carl. Carl smiled as he waved the keycard to their room at her.
“What did I miss?” Brian asked Justin as he looked around the yard.
The connecting tents were set up; two for dining and a larger one for the dance floor. The tents were standard heavy white canvas with fine tulle fabric tastefully dyed in the main wedding theme colors and draped around each open panel. The gazebo, where the actual ceremony would take place, was decorated in pale sage and cream. The overall esthetic was simple and elegant.
“Not much,” replied Justin. “The ceremony is not very complicated. Peter and Jacq will go first, followed by Debbie and Carl, then the Moms, Bree, then Michael will escort JR from the back porch, through the main tent to the gazebo. Ben will be standing slightly behind the small lectern; Peter will stand on the right with Jacq while Bree will go left. The Moms will be down in front as well as Carl and Debbie. Michael will sit near Debbie.”
“Sounds simple enough,” Brian commented. “What’s up with Mikey? He looks like he has ants in his pants,” Brian said. As the wedding party was getting a few more tips from Emmett, Michael was fidgeting.
“Bri, his only daughter is getting married tomorrow. You’d be fidgeting too,” Justin stated.
“I don’t fidget,” Brian retorted as he stared at Michael but he remained unconvinced. “Looks like this is wrapping up soon. I’d like to get cleaned up a bit.” Justin nodded then showed Brian the rooms JR designated for the wedding party’s use.
Taking turns, everyone was ready for dinner within the hour.
*****
“This is delicious,” exclaimed Jacq as she dug into her salad. JR agreed with a hearty “Mm, hmm!” “I know we discussed the menu several times but do you think Emmett will be serving this salad?” Jacq asked.
“I think so but we can ask,” replied JR. “Auntie Emm, will our salad be like this one?” JR smiled brightly at their friend and event planner.
“Do you like it?” Emm asked.
“Oh yes,” said JR. Everyone at the table agreed. Emm even got a “not bad” from Brian.
“Then yes, Ms. JR, this is what will be served.”
JR and Jacq were very pleased.
The evening continued with pleasant conversation and everyone enjoying their meals. Just before dessert, Ben stood to make a toast to the happy couple. Jacq and JR specifically instructed that no long speeches were to be given at the dinner and especially at the wedding.
“Everyone, may I have your attention,” Ben gently spoke. “In accordance with the request from JR and Jacq, there will be no long speeches tonight and tomorrow. So, everyone please raise your glasses and join me in a toast to the happy couple.”
The wedding party all raised their glasses as instructed then repeated, “To the happy couple!”After a dignified round of applause, dessert was served.
“Why didn’t you advise them to follow our example?” Michael asked, leaning over growling close to Ben’s ear.
“What?” Ben gave Michael an incredulous look.
“Our marriage is perfect; they should follow our example.”
“Nothing is perfect. Michael, this is not about you or us; this is about JR and Jacq. Now drop it,” Ben uncharacteristically growled back. Michael said nothing but he knew he was right and this wedding was all wrong.
Later when the dinner was over and everyone was saying their goodbyes, Brian found a moment alone with Michael.
“Mikey, what’s up with you? All night long you’ve been looking like you’re going to puke. Are you sick?”
“No, yes! I’m sick and tired of this farce. JR has no idea what she’s doing. Why is she marrying that woman?”
“Because they love each other. You remember love, the reason you and Ben tied the knot in Canada. Michael, I will only say this once; do not ruin your daughter’s wedding day. If you do, you will regret it for the rest of your life,” said Brian. “JR might forgive you but she will never forget you turning her most happy day into something else.” He turned and walked away leaving Michael to ponder Brian’s words. Or not.
“I know this is wrong,” Michael mumbled to himself.
*****
“Brian, what’s wrong?” Justin gently asked. Brian was finding it difficult to relax.
The lane family returned to the Plaza and got settled in for the night. The plan for Saturday was to converge at JR and Jacq’s house at 11:30am. The cocktail hour was scheduled for two; the ceremony was to begin at 3pm.
“I don’t know; it’s just this overwhelming feeling that something’s going to happen,” Brian replied.
“The only thing that’s going to happen is you getting lucky tonight,” Justin informed his spouse with a coy smile as they lay side by side in bed with their hands entwined.
“Is that your way of distracting me?”
“Yes, is it working?”
“Come here, Sunshine,” said Brian as he pulled Justin on top of him. For the moment, that was all Brian needed, just the secure feeling of Justin in his arms.
*****
It was two in the morning; Michael couldn’t sleep. He tried reading. When that didn’t work, he tried warm milk. Not only didn’t the milk work, it made him nauseous. Finally, he turned on the TV clicking his way through hundreds of apps and channels until he found someone “preaching” about decision making. Making himself comfortable on the sofa, Michael listened to the lecturer for a while before drifting off to sleep.
*****
Just after two in the morning, Brian’s eyes snapped open. The overwhelming feeling of dread had returned. And no, he wasn’t going to have a heart attack, he was as healthy as a horse. He had the medical reports to prove it. But Brian was worried. He carefully dislodged himself from the sleeping blond in his arms and got out of bed. Donning a pair of sleep pants, Brian went into the main suite to look out the window. The view included the Fort Pitt bridge. Even at this hour, the bridge as well as the city was busy.
Brian stood there contemplating what he was going to do until he came to a decision. Satisfied that it was the right decision, he was able to go back to bed and to sleep.
*****
“Morning,” a smiling blond greeted his husband. Brian smiled as he stretched then drew Justin down and close.
“What time is it?”
“Just about eight. I called down for breakfast,” replied Justin.
“The girls?”
“Taking their showers. They’ll eat in their robes then change before we leave. Are you okay? You look a little tired,” Justin said as he studied Brian’s face.
“I’m fine. Just a little two in the morning soul-searching,” said Brian. “Coffee will fix me.”
“Any revelations?” Brian nodded. “Care to share?”
“Not yet. Trust me on this.” Justin searched Brian’s eyes then nodded. “Thank you,” Brian whispered as he hugged the younger man.
“For what?” asked Justin.
“For believing in me.”
“I always believe in you,” said Justin as he stood up then extended his hand. Brian took it and allowed Justin to pull him up and out of bed. The lovers kissed.
“I’ll be out in a minute,” said Brian as Justin went out to join the girls.
Thus began their day.
*****
When the lane family arrived at JR and Jacq’s home, the yard as well as inside the house was buzzing with activity. After checking in with Emmett, everyone went their separate ways. Emmett had provided some light refreshments both inside the house and outside for the wedding party. Which everyone was grateful for.
Ashley and Bree hugged before Bree and Justin went inside to find JR. Ashley went with Peter. Ashley held a unique place in their cwazy wittle family. She was not only Bree’s best friend, Ashley was also a good friend and confidante to Peter. Plus, JR held the young woman in high regard like another sister. Ashley wore a pretty lilac summer dress, a gift from Richie-Nina; she looked lovely.
Brian found a spot on the porch that was out of the way but gave him the opportunity to observe the activity. The snob within couldn’t help critiquing. Brian smirked, mentally chastising himself for being a snob yet reveling in it. He noted that Ben looked picture perfect wearing a sedate summer weight light grey suit with a mauve shirt, grey and mauve tie, and mauve pocket square. He looked elegant without pretension. Ben was gracefully aging with muscles still prominent yet not over doing it. Brian nodded with approval.
Debbie and Carl cleaned up well, Brian thought to himself with a snort. Debbie in a muted sage skirt and blouse set while Carl in deep green. The rest of the family were dressed appropriately for the occasion, for the light hearted and easy atmosphere the girls wanted and of course for the weather.
Peter was a bit of a surprise. He also sported a grey suit but a slightly deeper shade than Ben’s suit. His sage shirt, tie, and pocket square closely matched the sage tulle that Emmett had draped over the gazebo.
“Didn’t anyone tell you that it’s not polite to stare at people,” Debbie said with a light cuff to Brian’s ear.
“Howdy, Maw,” Brian said with a smirk. “And I’m not staring; I’m taking in the atmosphere.”
“Bullshit, I bet you were trying to guess what designer label everyone is wearing. I know you, Brian Kinney,” Debbie said as she pulled up a chair and made herself comfortable. “Emmett outdid himself,” Debbie said gently.
“Yes, he did and so did you.”
“What do you mean?”
“Peter,” Brian said, nodding toward the young man who was getting last minute instructions from their number one event planner along with Ben and Michael. “That’s a great suit and he looks great in it.”
“I’ve learned from the master,” Debbie quipped but with sincerity that Brian could hear. Just then Brian sat up, squinting a bit. “What is it, Kiddo?”
“What’s up with your son?” Brian asked.
“What are you talking about?” Debbie asked with concern.
“What’s he wearing?”
“It’s called a suit.”
“It’s old.”
“Not everyone is a clothes horse like you,” Debbie growled as she popped Brian in the arm.
Brian barely felt it. “That’s not what I mean. He knows how to dress but it looks like…”
“Like what?” Debbie stared out at her son.
“I can’t explain it. I have to talk to JR.”
“Brian Kinney, don’t you ruin this day for her. I swear I’ll never forgive you.”
“I won’t, I promise. Trust me on this, please, I love JR as if she was my own,” said Brian as he gave Debbie a kiss on the cheek then stood to go inside. “Trust me.” All Debbie could do was nod and place her faith in Brian.
Brian stood in front of the door to the master bedroom. He could hear the sounds of women giggling, cooing, ahhing, and having a great time. He hated what he was about to do but he knew deep down into his soul that he had to do this and was prepared to accept the consequences.
“Knock knock,” said Brian in his most bold and arrogant voice. “Girls only,” he heard when he opened the door, quickly scanning the room for any female nakedness then entered.
“Brian what are you doing?” Lindsay shouted.
“I need to talk to JR and Jacq alone,” Brian replied as he grabbed Lindsay, Mel, and Bree pushing them out the door and into the hall. He quickly locked the door. The Moms were yelling and banging on the door. Turning to face JR and Jacq, JR was shocked while Jacq was getting ready to punch his lights out.
“On second thought.” Brian quickly made the decision to include the Moms. As fast as Brian had locked the door, he unlocked it then pulled the girls back inside.
“Brian, are you out of your mind?” Lindsay yelled while Melanie made threats of another kind.
“Kinney, I swear I will find a way to sue your ass,” Mel began. The girls except for Bree and JR all started shouting at the same time. Bree sat on the bed waiting for an explanation. JR sat in a chair.
Ignoring the shouting and the mayhem around him, Brian squatted before JR, taking her hands into his. Then he dared the lioness by reaching for Jacq; reluctantly Jacq moved closer.
“Last night, I had trouble sleeping. Something about Michael was troubling me,” Brian began. The room suddenly became quiet. “I know he loves you,” Brian directed his comment to JR. “But he can’t seem to give you up. Jenny Rebecca, you know I love you like a daughter,” Brian confessed out loud. “I would never ever do anything to hurt you but if I don’t say this and something happens, I will never forgive myself.”
“You think Michael will ruin the wedding.” Jacq jumped in, putting two and two together.
“Yes. I’ve been praying to all things holy that I’m mistaken but deep down I know I’m not. JR, you’ve grown up to be a beautiful, intelligent, talented woman. You’ve surpassed any of your parents’ hopes and dreams for you.”
Mel and Lindsay sniffled as they nodded in agreement.
“But your dad can’t seem to get with the program. I think he made up his mind not to walk you down in aisle.” Brian turned a little so he could see Mel and Lindsay. “If he mans up to do his duty then good for him and all of you but if he doesn’t…”
“We’ll do it,” said Lindsay. “Won’t we, Melanie.” Lindsay turned to face her former life partner and the woman who still meant the most in her life.
“Yes, we will,” affirmed Mel, taking Lindsay’s hand. “Sweetheart, you and Jacq will have a perfect day with or without your father,” Mel asserted as she and Lindsay surrounded the girls with love and support.
Brian got up to sit beside Bree. Leaning against her Dada, she took his hand to reassure him.
“Do you think they understand?”
“Yes, Dada, they do. You did good, Dada. I love you.”
“I love you too, Squirt.” Taking a couple deep breaths then exhaling out the bad vibes, Brian decided it was time to leave. “That was worse than going over the quarterly budget with Schmidt,” Brian confessed for Bree’s ears only. She giggled then gave Brian a hug.
“Time for you to get out,” Brian’s mini me instructed.
“Yes, ma’am, General Squirt,” said Brian as he gave her a salute then exited the bedroom.
“What’s going on?” Justin asked as he met Brian in the kitchen scrounging for a cup of coffee.
“I need to speak to Emmett and Ben,” Brian replied.
“Is it that serious?”
“Potentially,” said Brian.
“Okay,” said Justin. Trusting Brian’s judgment, Justin led Brian outside then pointed to the gazebo. A passing breeze had dislodged a bit a tulle. Ben was helping Emm fix it. Looking around and not seeing Michael, Brian sprinted to the gazebo.
“No need to whip out your toolbelt, Brian, we have it covered,” said Emmett with a happy grin.
“We need to talk,” said Brian, giving both Emm and Ben a poignant look.
“Something tells me, we’re not going to like this,” Ben expressed what he and Emmett were thinking. Emmett nodded. Brian explained his suspicions and of the back up plan. The boys, while disappointed, were hoping for the best but agreeing whole heartedly with plan B. They would do their damnedest for JR and Jacq.
Soft “chamber” music played in the background as guests arrived, mingled, and enjoyed the delightful spread of hors d’oeuvres. Circulating servers with trays of colorful cocktails and mocktails attended to the guests. At the appointed time, Emmett asked the guests to take their seats. The tents and tables were arranged so that each guest had a good view of the gazebo.
When the guests had all settled, the music changed. Peter and Jacq stepped down off the porch, walked through the main tent and took their places at the “altar.”
Right on cue, Debbie and Carl with the last minute inclusion of Danny, stepped off the porch and headed down the aisle.
Expecting the Moms next, the guests were a little mystified when Bree began a slow walk toward the gazebo wearing a lovely pale pink dress that complemented the pale rose color of JR’s dress. She took her place opposite Jacq and Peter. Bree smiled prettily at Peter and Jacq, getting a smile in return from Peter and a wink from Jacq.
The music changed again.
Looping arms with each Mom, the ladies held their heads up high, smiling brightly as they walked toward the gazebo. Somewhere from the back as JR and her mothers approached the gazebo, came applause started by the Kinney men and their partners. The applause rippled through the guests as Lindsay and Melanie kissed their daughter then released her. As Jacq came to stand by JR, the Moms hugged and kissed Jacq, giving her their unwavering love.
Ben waited for a few moments then made motions with his hands quieting the guests.
“Normally the applause comes after the ceremony but then there’s nothing normal about this family,” said Ben as he looked out over the friends and family gathered offering their love and good wishes to JR and Jacq. A smattering of laughter could be heard.
“We gather here today to witness the beginning of a new phase in the lives of Jenny Rebecca and Jacqueline. We wish them health, happiness, and all good things in their journey through life together as a wedded couple. By the power invested in me by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, I pronounce you legally married. You may kiss the bride,” Ben said with a smirk. JR and Jacq laughed, hugged, then kissed.
When the music changed again, the party was on!
Epilogue
“Mr. Novotny what are you doing here,” asked Jordon. Jordon was JR’s assistant manager. He would be taking over while JR was on her honeymoon. Danny had volunteered his assistance as well.
“It’s Saturday, I figured it would be busy. I thought you could use the help,” said Michael.
“Uh sure,” replied Jordon. He was unaware of any change of plans. JR had planned to close the store for the day, however Jordon insisted he’d work a few hours then close up early to join the reception. “Would you mind if I stepped out to get some lunch?”
“Of course, happy to help,” Michael said. He perked up at the thought of being useful.
“Can I bring you back anything?” Jordon offered.
“No thank you, I had a large breakfast,” Michael said as he removed his jacket then stepped behind the counter. The bell over the door jingled as a customer walked in. Jordon quickly left for the diner, texting Danny as he walked. A few minutes later, Jordon’s phone rang.
“Danny, I don’t want to intrude but what’s going on?” Jordon asked. Danny gave Jordon a brief synopsis. “Wow. Okay. I’ll see you later.” Jordon wasn’t really hungry so he picked up a couple of coffees then headed back to the shop. Making up some story about it being slow on holiday weekend, Jordon and Michael closed up around five. Jordon headed for the bank then drove over to JR’s. Michael went home.
Michael opened the door to an empty house. He should have gone back to JR’s to apologize but that thought never occurred to him. Removing his jacket and tie, Michael walked upstairs to the master bedroom. As he did he passed the guest room which contained the packed suitcases for their vacation at the cabin. Michael smiled.
“We’ll have a great time hanging out with Brian,” Michael said to himself oblivious of the consequences of his actions.
-tbc-