Jolan's Path - Chapter 112

The following story is fictional and is intended for an adult audience. It is not meant to suggest anything about the sexuality of Justin Timberlake or any other celebrities included in this story. This story is fiction, meaning not real. It's all for fun. If you are under age, it is illegal in your country, or you don't like stories about gay sex, please stop reading this now.

Chapter 112

Jolan focused, feeling a cloud of shadow dissolving before him, his grey eyes slowly opening.

His eyes went around the bedroom he now lay in, staring at his family surrounding him.

On his left side Justin sat beside him, his hand in Jolan's, the man smiling at him.

Hayden sat in Justin's lap, the small boy smiling at his father.

"Hi, Daddy! You's back!" the boy said, Jolan smiling at him.

Jolan looked up into Justin's blue pools of love, taking in the love and happiness shining there.

"I'm sorry, Jus. I kind of blacked out there for a moment."

Justin smiled, leaning down and kissing Jolan's cheek.
"You've been out for almost two hours, son." Henry said, Jolan's eyes meeting his, the doctor on Jolan's right side, sitting on the bed's edge, unwrapping a blood pressure gauge from his arm, the doctor smiling at him.

"You gave us a bit of worry there, Jo. But then again you give us a bit of surprise always." the doctor said, smiling at him, looking up at those surrounding them.

Jolan's eyes focused on those standing around him.

Josh and Chace stood behind Justin and Hay, Jolan's eyes meeting Josh's.

Joel and Melina stood beside Josh, smiling down at their son, Jennie standing beside them, Jonathan's arms wrapped around her.

Simus, Cory and Calen stood at the end of the bed, Jolan staring into his uncles' grey eyes.

Jolan's eyes moved from them to another set of grey piercing eyes, and a pair of blue pools of happiness.

"Are you alright, Krayos? And your father?" Jolan softly said.

"We are both alive and well, by your grace, Jolan." the young man said softly, his grey eyes staring at Jolan.

Jolan sighed, his body moving up a bit, Justin's hand going to his chest.

"You're not moving an inch, Jo. I'm not sure what's happened here, all I know is that you're exhausted, and in pain."

Jolan nodded, sinking back into the pillows surrounding him, closing his eyes for a moment, then opening them again.

"The weight of the magic lays heavy upon my soul. I'll be alright, I just went beyond my means, its newness surprising." he said, his hand going to his chest, everyone staring at the ring on that hand.

"Never have these eyes laid upon such magic, Jolan." Calen said, his grey eyes staring at his nephew in reverence.

Jolan softly smiled, nodding.

"New magic now fills me, Uncles. The magic of truth and love."

"Yes, Jolan. We all saw that amazing magic. I have lived a long time, and never had I lain my eyes upon a true Soul Walker." Simus said, Joel and Calen nodding their agreement.

"These times bring upon us many images of magic and truth, Uncle. The path ahead may be layered with them."

Jennie sat down on the bed's edge, smiling at her brother.

"You bear the greatest image, my brother. Even your walking soul pours forth its love."

Jolan smiled, Jennie leaning forward, kissing her brother's cheek.

"I thought I'd lost you, my brother." she softly said, Jolan rubbing her soft cheek, wiping away a tear.

"My promises I shall forever keep, Jennie. Your brother's love will always be here."
Jennie smiled, standing up again, Jonathan's arms wrapping around her, the young man smiling down at Jolan.

"Glad you came back to the real you, Jo. I love you, my brother."

Jolan smiled, Joel moving forward with Melina, Jolan's mother leaning down and kissing her son's cheek.

"I love you, Jolan. Please don't ever scare me like that again." she said, Jolan softly blushing, feeling his mother's love surrounding him, and seeing it in her tearful eyes.

"I'm sorry, Mom. I never meant to scare you." he said, Melina kissing him again, Joel leaning down and kissing him as well.

"Welcome back, my son. You gave all of us a real scare as your mother said. But seeing you here now, alive, how can we not forgive you?"
Jolan smiled, seeing the tears of love in his father's eyes.

"How is your brother, Father?" Jolan said, his eyes looking towards Krayos.

"He's sleeping, Jolan. He was even more exhausted than you." Joel said, sitting down beside Justin and Hay, Hay climbing into his grandfather's lap, Joel smiling down at him, kissing his forehead.

"His is the exhaustion of life, Father. Of a life controlled by evil, his soul dragged down into the abyss of denied hope. I couldn't leave him there alone. I had to lead him back into the light. The light of his family's love." Jolan said, lowering his eyes, Justin squeezing his hand.

"It's so unbelievable, Jo! How did you untangle all this deceit, deception and hidden evil?" Justin said, Jolan's head raising.

"I felt it, Justin. The day I first met him in the Room of Family. I felt the evil surrounding my uncle's heart. The evil that had claimed my uncle so long ago. For I have felt that evil before. On the last encounter I had with Brandon. I felt Fagin's evil in his heart that day I healed Josh's loving soul."
Josh looked at Jolan, his friend smiling back.

"I had to take action. I had to unite my father's and uncles' lost brotherhood. I will need all of your love to succeed in my quest."

"Your quest, Jo?" Chace said, Jolan looking up at his friend.

"Yes, Chace. My quest for the truth. For the truth to free my family, to perhaps free the world." Jolan said, sighing softly, looking around at everyone.

"It is time the world walks in the light of the sun of truth."
Justin's hand went forward, gently laying on top of Jolan's chest.

"That sun of truth marks you and our Jennie as its messengers, my love."
Jolan's eyes met Justin's, Justin's hand gently raising Jolan's shirt.

Jolan's eyes gazed downward, staring at his own chest.

In the center of his chest just above his belly button was a circular tattoo of a blazing sun.

Jolan's eyes continued to stare at the tattoo now showing on his chest.

 "The sun sets on love. The sun sets on death and renews life"

Justin looked at Jolan, their eyes meeting.

"That phrase was part of the tablet written on the western wall, in the Chamber of Ascendancy, Jus. The sun set on my death, only to rise again on my soul's return. It marks me now as it must."

Justin nodded, looking into his lover's calm grey eyes.

"That's the exact spot where Morgan's sword pierced your soul, Jolan." Henry said, staring at the tattoo also.

Jolan's eyes met his.

"When I removed your shirt, I was certain that I'd see some kind of wound, or at least a scar. You'd said you felt a pain in your chest. Simus thought that perhaps when your soul returned to you, it brought back with it that lethal wound. We were all surprised when this sun was revealed as the only mark there."

Jolan's eyes met his uncle's, Simus staring at him with concerned love.

"My soul that walked into that room was an illusion, an illusion of magic. It was the only way I could think of to satisfy the barbarism of my family's rite of heritage. Someone had to perish. I came up with the idea of offering my soul. Josh aided me in that quest, watching over me while I lay down here in this bed after my father left, my soul pulled out by the new magic surrounding me. And Josh's love was here waiting for it. "
Josh smiled, Jolan smiling up at him.

"It was a moving moment for me, Jolan. To see the essence of your love part from you. That soul is even greater of love. It is love stripped bare. To then walk beside it into that room. I looked around at everyone's faces, seeing their unknown realization of what had walked into their vision. Your soul of love walked into that room and forced evil's hand."
Jolan softly smiled, his eyes going to Krayos.

"I. . .I am sorry, my cousin." Krayos said, his head bowing, unable to look into Jolan's staring eyes.

Elijah's eyes were on Krayos, their blueness then meeting Jolan's.

"Forgiveness always begins with love, Krayos. I am sorry for the game I played you into."

Krayos' head raised, a look of surprised shock on his face.

"You seek forgiveness from me? I am the one in need of forgiveness, my cousin of courage."
Jolan smiled, motioning the man closer, Krayos moving, gently sitting down on Jolan's right side, Henry standing up to give him room.

Jolan's hand reached out, taking Krayos', the two staring at each other.

Jolan stared into Krayos' handsome face, seeing the scar on his right cheek, knowing what had passed through this young man's life.

Krayos felt a warmth flood his soul.

"I seek only your friendship and your love, Krayos. Forgiveness begins with that love."

Krayos' eyes filled with tears, Elijah's hand going to his shoulder.

"This day. . .this day began with pain, with lost hope for me. I hated the thoughts of walking into that room. . .of having to kill you. To kill my own cousin, my unknown cousin. And then I saw Elijah walk in. . .and then I fell before you. . .I saw my life about to be denied me. And then I looked into your eyes and I saw. . ." Krayos said, his voice laced with emotion.

"You saw hope?" Jolan said, Krayos staring into his grey eyes, nodding.

"Yes, Jolan. I saw the hope your love was giving me. You spared my life. . .how can I. . .how can I ever. . ."
Jolan squeezed his hand, smiling at him.

"You can repay that debt by living a life of love and happiness, Krayos. The man standing beside you wants to give you that love. And I want to be your loving friend and cousin."

Krayos smiled, looking up into Elijah's blue eyes.

Elijah's eyes widened.

"Krayos. . .your scar! It's. . .it's gone!"
Krayos' fingers went to his cheek, feeling the smoothness now there, everyone now staring into his handsome, smooth face.

"Marks of evil perish under the touch of love."
Krayos' eyes went to Jolan's, the young man having spoken, everyone's eyes on the two young men.

Jolan's face was covered in a smile of knowledge, Krayos' soul washed with the love shining there.

"Thank you, Jolan. For given me a second chance. In life and love."
Jolan smiled, nodding, sinking further back into the pillows.

"Your father loves you, Krayos. He always has. I believe he will accept your love for Elijah. All he needs to do is get to know Elijah. He'll see him for the loving man he is."
Elijah smiled at Jolan, Jolan smiling back, then softly sighing.

"You're tired, Jolan. You need rest. Morgan will be out for the rest of the night as well. We'll talk about all this in the morning." Justin said, Henry nodding his agreement.

"Alright, Jus. I am very tired." Jolan said, Hayden climbing out of his grandfather's lap, snuggling against Jolan's left side, his father's arm going around his small body.

"Me sleepy toos, Daddy. Let's sleep togethers!"

Jolan smiled, kissing the boy's forehead.

"I agree, my son."

Hayden smiled, snuggling more into Jolan's love.

"On that note, we'll let you rest, Jolan. Goodnight, son." Joel said rising up, Jolan smiling as his father, then his mother, kissed his forehead.

Everyone smiled at the young man, saying their goodnights, gradually making their way to the door, Justin following them, Josh and Chace the last two remaining in the room.

Josh smiled at Jolan, then hugged Justin against him.

"His love never left, Justy. It was always here." Josh said, Justin smiling at him, the two men kissing.

Chace smiled, Justin kissing him as well, the two men walking out of the room hand in hand.

Justin smiled after them, closing the bedroom door.

Justin's and Jolan's eyes met, Justin walking up to the right side of the bed.

Justin looked down, Hayden sound asleep against his father's left side.

"He can sleep anywhere, just like his Poppa." Jolan softly said, Justin smiling at him.

Justin pulled off his shirt, Jolan's eyes staring at his revealed smoothness.

Justin removed his pants, putting his clothes on the chair beside the bed.

He smiled at Jolan, moving to the lamp, clicking it off, the room now shrouded in semidarkness, moonlight beaming in from the wall of windows.

Justin gently climbed into the bed on the opposite side of Hayden, Jolan surrounded by his men, Jolan feeling his lover snuggle up against him.

"Are you alright, Jo?" his lover said, Jolan feeling Justin's caring love.

"I was about to ask you the same question, my love. You've been rather quiet, my love. I feel your soul."
Justin lay beside Jolan, snuggling more into him, Jolan's arm going around him.

"I. . .I thought I'd lost you, Jo. When that sword hit you. . .I thought. . ."

"I'm sorry, Justin. I'm sorry I couldn't tell you what I was doing. The evil. . .I wasn't sure how powerful it was. . .I couldn't risk it knowing. I'm sorry I didn't. . ." Jolan said, Justin leaning upwards, their lips meeting, Justin silencing Jolan's rising emotions.

The two sets of lips broke apart slowly, Jolan staring into Justin's moonlit face.

"I understand, Jo. I understand your need for secrecy, and I know your love for me. It's as strong as my love for you. It was just. . .I felt so alone when I held you in my arms on that floor. I felt like half my soul was gone. And when you vanished in my arms, then walked into that room, I felt your love again instantly. And I felt in my soul what I'd almost lost. I never want to feel that again, Jo. I never want to lose you like that again." Justin said, his words ending with trembling sobs.

Jolan pulled his man against him, Justin's head going to his chest.

Jolan let Justin cry himself out, holding his man against him, letting him feel his ever flowing love.
Hayden moved a little on Jolan's other side, the boy's hand going to Justin's tear-stained face in his sleep.

"Your trembling emotions have seeped into our Hay's dreams, Jus. He moves to your love."
Justin raised his head, Jolan's lips meeting his.

"I love you, Jus. I'll never make you feel that pain again. My love is now yours and his forever."

Justin softly smiled, laying back down against Jolan's chest.

"I love you too, Jolan. And I love our son."
Jolan smiled, his eyes softly closing.

"Sleep, my love. Tomorrow our future begins. Tomorrow my family's soul shines."

Justin closed his eyes, his breathing relaxing.

Jolan's eyes opened again, staring down at Justin and his son beside him, Hayden's hand again on Justin's face.

Jolan smiled and closed his eyes, his family surrounding him.

Everyone stood as the Queen's Room's doors opened, Jolan walking into the room, Justin's and Josh's arms wrapped around him, Hay in Chace's arms behind them.

Jolan smiled at everyone, his father walking over to him.

Joel had told everyone as they walked into breakfast that Justin had informed him, when he'd met him in the hallway coming from the washroom, that Jolan was feeling better and was coming down for breakfast.

Everyone had agreed to wait for him to join them.

"Are you sure this is a good idea, son? Martha could have brought you breakfast in bed." Joel said, kissing his son's cheek.

"You know I've never been a good patient, Father. Remember that bout with the flu when I was twelve?"
Joel laughed, his eyes meeting his wife's, both of Jolan's parents smiling with love in their eyes.

"Yes, my son. Your mother almost disowned you."
Jolan laughed, others smiling at his warm smile.

"Besides, I heal better when I am up and moving."
Everyone smiled, Joey walking up to his friend, smiling at him.

"Thank God you're here, Jo! Chris has been driving us all crazy with his theories about yesterday. You need to nip that in the butt!"
Jolan looked over at Chris, his friend smiling at him from his chair, Britney's arm around him.

"I ain't touching that man's butt without disinfectants."

Everyone burst into laughter, Joey almost doubling over with it, Chris turning his usual hue of blushing red.

Jolan smiled, Joey's hand going to his shoulder, Justin and Josh smiling at their friend.

"Don't ever change, Jo! Magic or whatever, don't ever change!"

Jolan smiled, Justin feeling his lover tremble a little, Joel catching the movement as well.

"Here, Jo. Let me guide you to your chair." Joel said, Josh releasing his hold on Jolan, Jolan's father's arm going around his son, he and Justin guiding him to the chair at the table's head, his Uncle Calen smiling at him, pulling the offered chair back.

"You are the star of your family's heart, Jolan. I honor you with my chair of reverence."
Jolan smiled, sitting down in his uncle's offered chair, looking around at everyone.
"I am the sun of truth, Uncles and family. Thank you for placing me in this seat of honor."
Calen smiled, his eyes turning upon hearing the room's doors open again.

Everyone's eyes turned as well, staring at two men walking into the room.

Morgan Dragos walked into the room slowly, his son standing beside him, his arm around his father.

The room was filled with quiet silence, Jolan's eyes meeting his father's, Jolan nodding.

Joel turned, walking towards his brother and nephew.

Morgan stared into Joel's grey eyes, Joel staring back as he stopped a few feet in front of his brother.

"Good morning, Morgan. Our family is once again united. I am glad you have joined us." Joel said, his older brother's eyes lowering.

"I was not sure if I was welcomed here this morning, Joelius. My son forced me to come down here." Morgan softly said, Joel's eyes going to his nephew, then back to his brother's now raised grey eyes.

"Your son has felt the love within this room, Morgan Dragos. The love that waits here for you now, Uncle."

Morgan's eyes moved, staring into two youthful grey orbs of love staring at him from a chair at the head of the dining table, Jolan having spoken.

Morgan moved slowly forward, his brother and son following him, the eldest Dragosan walking to the head of his once family table.

Jolan stared up at his uncle, Morgan staring down at him.

Morgan fell forward, kneeling before Jolan, Krayos staring at his father in surprise, meaning to go forward to aid him, Joel's hand going to his shoulder, stopping him.

"I have brought shame to my family, nephew of courage! I am not fit to stand surrounded by their love. I kneel in forgiveness, unworthy of even that!"

Jolan stared at his uncle for a few moments, the young man rising to his feet.

Everyone's eyes were on the two men, seeing Jolan's eyes softly glow for an instant.

"The last time I checked Uncle, you were a man of courage yourself. Please stand up. Kneel not before your family."

Morgan Dragos stared up at the man now standing above him, seeing so much intense love in his nephew's grey eyes.

He slowly rose to his feet, Jolan's hand going to his shoulder.

"Look around you, Uncle. See the eyes of your brothers and your son. We--your family--do not hold shame in our hearts for you. We know the path you have walked, the path away from your family. We now know part of it was not of your own choosing, and that part of it was the love you held within your heart for your family. You chose to walk away from your own family to keep them safe for as long as possible from the evil growing within you. To keep them safe until my soul walked upon this stage. Uncle Morgan, we love you."

Morgan stared in silent shock, a hand going to his left shoulder, another to his right.

On both sides of him he met the staring grey eyes of his brothers.

Simus leaned forward, kissing his elder brother's cheek.

"I have missed you, Morgan. Your courage and love I feel again within my soul."
Calen leaned forward, kissing his brother's cheek, smiling at him.

"I love you as well, brother. I am healed, Morgan. Our nephew of love has healed my body, my soul awaiting his salvation."

Morgan's tears began to fall, Joel walking up beside his brothers.

"I love you as well, my brother. You and I have not always seen eye to eye, Morgan. Perhaps because we are so alike, our love for our family deeply embedded in our souls. I now know perhaps that our conflicting views were not always of your doing. I have always loved you, my brother. That love still remains in my heart."

Melina walked up to her husband's side, Morgan staring at her and his brother together.

"Our family rejoices in your returned love to us. Perhaps now I can know and love the real you." Melina said, Morgan's eyes meeting hers, seeing her once glare of anger now gone, only shining love radiating there now.

Morgan's head lowered, Jolan staring at his uncle surrounded by his brothers.

"You are surrounded by love, Uncle Morgan. A love that never left your soul on the dark path you once walked."
"But, Jolan, I've done some terrible things! I've hurt my own family!"

"No, Uncle. That hurt and pain never came from you. It came from the evil that had taken you."
Morgan's head raised, his grey tearful eyes staring into Jolan's grey.

"I couldn't stop it. . .I couldn't stand strong against it!" he said, his brothers looking upon him with compassion and love.

"To stand against evil alone is to stand against the impossible. Your heart of courage survived within you, Uncle Morgan. Your love and courage forever remained."
Morgan slowly nodded, Jolan's hand going to his shoulder again.

"Come, my uncle of love. Feast with your family, nourish your soul with its love." Jolan said, Morgan staring at him.

Jolan moved, pulling back the chair he'd just sat in, standing behind it.

"You are the eldest of the Dragosan clan, my uncle of courage. You honor us with your love seated at our head."
Morgan stared into Jolan's grey eyes, seeing so much love there, so much truth and love.

"You honor me with this touching symbol of family love. I don't know if. . .if I'm worthy of it."

"Your strength of courage at standing here now makes you worthy of your family's love."
Morgan softly smiled, the man sitting down in the offered chair, his brothers staring at Jolan.

"Our family is whole again. The Dragosans are once again united by truth, love and courage."

Jolan moved, sitting down in the chair on Morgan's left side, Krayos smiling and sitting on his father's right.

Justin sat down beside Jolan, Hayden climbing into his lap.

Elijah sat down beside Krayos, Morgan's eyes going to the young man.

Their eyes met, Morgan's lowering.

Everyone went to their seats, a family now united before them.

Morgan sat in silence, his eyes on Jolan's calm face, the young man finishing his coffee, his son now in his lap.

Hayden was sipping on a glass of juice through a straw, his blue eyes looking at the man.

Morgan had sat through the meal, everyone talking of the rite, the elder Dragosan and Krayos filled in on the happenings of their family and Jolan's involvement in all of it.

They learned of Jolan's life, of his past and the joining of the paths of his destiny.

Morgan filled his own brothers in on his life of lost hope, and of the day when Fagin had captured him, days before their ill-fated journey to find the Fangoros lair.

The monster's evil had infested him, his strength and courage bowing to the man's evil magic.

Morgan had walked his path, the evil laying inside him, coming to the surface in moments of changing truth.

His evil had drawn his brothers to their almost doom, the bravery of Joel and the Badenwolves saving all of them that night.

His evil had later caused the breakage of the bond of the Brotherhood of Vendica, Joel walking away from his brothers.

Calen and Simus had sided with their younger brother, Morgan then ostracized from the family.

The evil had stood in silence learning the truth of the Dragosan clan's heritage and destiny.

Then the evil had tried to destroy Jolan in calling for the Rite of Truth.

Jolan had used that rite to reveal the evil and free his uncle from its clutches.

Morgan's grey eyes looked at his nephew, Jolan's eyes meeting his.

"You are the one, Jolan. You are the one to lead this family to its salvation." he softly said, his eyes then going to his son.

 "I shall be present at that moment of salvation, Uncle. But I am not the leader of this family."
Jolan smiled at Justin, Hayden climbing from Jolan's lap into Justin's, Jolan standing up.

Jolan looked at everyone, his eyes going around the table, meeting his uncles' and father's eyes, as well as Jennie's, his three Archanian cousins', and finally Krayos'.

"We Dragosans are a family of ten, the soul of our heritage. No, I'll correct myself. We are twelve now." Jolan said, smiling at his son, then at Elijah.

Elijah smiled at Jolan, Hayden smiling up at his father, snuggled in Justin's lap, his head against his chest.

"We are a family of love, of destiny, truth, honor and courage. There is only one man courageous enough to lead this family. One among us has shown his courage, honor, love and hope. You have earned that right, Uncle Morgan."

Morgan stared at Jolan, Jolan nodding at his family.

Simus, Calen, Joel, Athos, Isaiah, Mathias, Jennie, Krayos, and Elijah all stood up, Jolan picking up Hayden from his Justin's arms.

"You are our brother, and our leader, Morgan. You shall honor us with your love, wisdom, courage and strength. Welcome home, brother." Joel said, Morgan's eyes filling with tears.

The family moved, Morgan rising out of his seat at the head of the table, surrounded by all of them, the others seated staring at this moving moment.

"I. . .I did not expect this. . .I don't know if I'm. . .you have that much faith in me?" the man said, his brothers surrounding him.

"You were lost, Uncle. You now are found, all of us feeling your joining love. We are now a family again." Jolan said, his arms surrounding his uncle, Morgan hugging his nephew and Hayden tightly.

"Thank you, Jolan. Thank you for guiding me home." he said, Jolan smiling.

The young man stepped back, each of his family hugging Morgan.

His brothers kissed his cheek, his nephews and niece doing the same.

Morgan's face had taken on a look of happiness, Krayos the second to last to hug his father.

"I see your love again, Father. I feel your happiness."
Morgan smiled, looking at Elijah standing behind Krayos.

"I see your eyes filled with love as well, Krayos. Your now known cousin is the one you love?"

Krayos' eyes met Elijah's, both smiling at each other.

"I love him, Father. Jolan has shown me how much." Krayos said, Jolan smiling at him.

"Love has shown you, Krayos. Love shows us life."

Krayos smiled, his eyes meeting his father's, the young man showing courage and love in his grey eyes.

"Welcome to our family Elijah, son of my brother. And love of my son's heart." Morgan said, pulling the young man into his arms.

Krayos was in tears, Elijah smiling, feeling the man's welcoming love.

"Your heart is healed, Uncle Morgan. Its love radiates outward."
Everyone smiled, Krayos' arms going around Elijah when Morgan broke his embrace.

Simus walked up to Jolan, his hand going to his nephew's shoulder, Jolan smiling at him.

"You have forgotten three others of our clan, Jolan." Simus smiled, his eyes going to Melina.

"Your mother Melina, Jolan. And your fiancé, Justin."

Justin smiled, walking up to Jolan's side, kissing his cheek, Morgan smiling at him.

Melina stood up, walking to her husband's side, Joel's arm going around her.

Morgan smiled at her, Melina smiling back.

"A lion of courage to lead us forward. Welcome into your family's embrace, Morgan." she said, Morgan smiling as she leaned forward kissing his cheek.

"Thank you, Melina. Sister of my heart."
Melina smiled, Jolan smiling at Simus.

"There is another, Jolan."

"I know, Uncle Simus. Follow your heart. I would be honored."

Simus smiled, his eyes going to Cory.

"Please come to my side, Cory."
The young man looked around the table, slowly rising from his seat, walking up to his lover's side, Jolan smiling at him.

 "You would be honored to do what, Jolan?"  Cory said, Jolan's eyes going to his uncle.

Simus took Cory's hands in his, the young man staring into his loving grey eyes.

"Jolan would be honored to name you as the thirteenth of our clan, Cory. You are my love, my soul and my everything." Simus said, his eyes going to his three brothers.

Joel smiled, looking at Morgan, then Calen.

"Our Seeker has sought out his last heart of heritage. He now walks the path of love." Joel said, Simus smiling at his three smiling brothers.

"They are right, Cory. I am now on a new path, the path of your love. I love you, Cory. I have waited a lifetime to say those words. And here today, in front of my family and our friends, I need to say only one final thing, to join our souls forever."

Simus moved, sinking to one knee, Cory staring down at him in shock.

"I love you, Cory. Will you marry me? Today?"

Cory's face flooded with tearful happiness, looking down at the man he loved.

"Oh, my Simus! I love you with all of my heart! Yes, I will marry you! I need your love so much!"
Simus was in tears, standing up, his arms going around his lover, the two uniting in a deep kiss, everyone in the room beginning to clap and whistle.

Everyone surrounded the two, both pulled into waiting arms of congratulatory happiness.

The couple's eyes were on each other as they were kissed and hugged by their friends and family, the two finally meeting again, Simus' arm going around his Cory.

"Today, Simus? You want to marry me today?" Cory said, his eyes still glistening with tears, Jolan and Justin standing in front of them.

"Yes, my love. I have waited several lifetimes for your love, I cannot wait a day longer to be united under love with you."

Cory was in tears, his eyes going to Jolan, then back to Simus.

"My family's not here, my uncle and aunt. But I love you, Simus. I can't wait either."
Simus smiled, Jolan's hand going to his old friend.

"Congratulations, my brother of love. His love makes your soul brighten. I only wish you happiness."
Cory teared up, his arms pulling Jolan into a tight hug.

"You must be my best man, Jo! I can't have any other!"
Jolan smiled, kissing his friend's cheek.

"I would be honored, Cory. And I'd like to give you your wedding gift early. Alright, Elijah." Jolan said, the young man smiling beside Krayos.

Elijah moved, heading out of the room.

Cory and Simus exchanged looks, Jolan smiling at both of them.

Justin had a beaming smile on his face, Cory sensing he knew what was going on.

"He is my love, I hide no secrets." Jolan said smiling.

Elijah's head popped into the room, smiling at Jolan.

"All ready, Jo." he said, Jolan looking back at Cory.

"Today is your day, Cory. This comes from my heart." Jolan said, nodding towards Elijah, the young man opening the door.

Cory's eyes widened, his eyes filling with tears, the young man bounding across the room, half sobbing.

Karl and Thelma Hamilton had their nephew in their arms, the young man crying against both of them.

"Congratulations, my boy. We wish you only love." Thelma said, she in tears as well.

"How. . .how did you get here?" Cory said, smiling widely at both of them, his Uncle Karl hugging him tight.

"Your friend of childhood love flew us in yesterday. We were staying at Vera's." Thelma said, Vera Fontaine and her grandson Elijah both smiling at Cory, standing behind his aunt and uncle.

Cory walked over to Jolan, his friend smiling at him, then at Simus.

"Simus' heart is filled with your love, Cory. I sensed over Christmas his wanting to propose to you. I just figured your family should be here for this moment."

"Thank you, Jo. I love you so much!" Cory said, his arms enveloping his friend again, Karl and Thelma walking forward, followed by Vera and Elijah.

The three newcomers were welcomed by everyone, Jolan hugged by Cory's aunt and uncle.

"Jolan Dragos. Your love shines across the world." Thelma said.

Jolan smiled, his face softly blushing, Justin's arm going around him.

"You should rest again, Jo. I feel your tiredness. You need to be energetic to stand by our Cory."
Jolan smiled, kissing his Jus' cheek.

"My new doctor, my friends. Ain't he sexy?!!"

Everyone laughed, Justin smiling at his lover.

"I hope you don't mind, Uncle. I've arranged everything." Jolan said.

Simus' eyes widened in surprise.

"Well, it is New Year's Eve as well, Calen having already planned the party for that. I just had the staff mix up a few changes. I hope you'll like my ideas."

Simus' eyes were tearing as were Cory's.

"You are amazing, my nephew. You feel our love and give so much back."
Jolan smiled, looking towards Calen.

"Martha's been a big help, as has Vera. Tuxedos have arrived, and Reverend Albright has agreed to officiate."

Everyone smiled, seeing that Jolan had everything prepared.

"So we'll have a joined wedding and New Year's party, if everyone's in agreement." Jolan said, everyone voicing their agreement, clapping their hands in acknowledgement of Jolan's giving love.

The young man blushed, Simus' hand going to his shoulder.

"Your love, Jolan. . .it's. . .it's so unbelievable."
"You are family, as Cory soon will be as well. I give my love to all my family."
"Cory beat me to the punch, Jolan. I would have been honored to have you stand with me as well." Simus said, Jolan smiling at him.

"I think you should go with your heart, Simus. Family memories live deep within your heart."
Simus smiled, looking towards his brothers.

He walked over to the three standing together, all three smiling at him.

Simus' eyes looked upon one.

"You have always been in my heart, Morgan. Throughout our childhood I always looked up to you. To your courage, your love, and your devotion to family. Jolan is right. I shall go with my heart today. I need my big brother to stand by me. Will you be my best man?"
Joel and Calen smiled, their eyes on their elder brother.

"Oh, Simus. I. . .I would be so honored to stand by you." Morgan said, his eyes filled with tears, pulling his brother into his arms, everyone smiling at the touching moment.

"Well, seems everything is in order. The wedding shall begin at five, followed by dinner and then dancing. The Room of Love's Light will be readied. Vera's come up with some things, and she'll need some help. Let's all meet there at four-thirty. All except the two grooms and best men. You'll be separated after three." Jolan said, everyone smiling.

"Fantastic! A wedding and then a party! Awesome!" Chris said, high fiving Joey, Jolan smiling at their boisterous joy.

Justin's arm went around Jolan tighter, Jolan sensing his love's caring.

"I'm going to rest for a few hours. Have fun today everyone." he said, Justin smiling, Hayden kissing his father's cheek, Jolan smiling at his son.

"Me stays with Mommy and Momma, Daddy. We's going outsides again!"

Jolan smiled, kissing his son's cheek.

"Have fun, my son."

Sandra walked over, Hayden climbing into her arms.

The young man smiled, Justin walking him out of the room, everyone watching the two leave.

"That man's love never ends." Elijah said, Vera's arm going around her grandson.

"His love is love, Elijah." she smiled, Elijah kissing her cheek.

Thelma clapped her hands together, smiling at her nephew and Simus.
"Let's get cracking, everyone! We've got a wedding to organize!"

Jolan and Justin smiled, walking into Cory and Simus' bedroom.

Cory sat on the bed, wearing only boxer briefs, Jolan smiling at him.

Justin carried a garment bag in his hands, setting it down on the bed beside Cory.

"Your wedding suit, Mr. Hamilton."
Cory looked up at Justin, softly smiling.

Jolan smiled, sitting down beside his friend, his arm going around him.

"The time's almost upon us, my friend. Your Simus awaits."

It was after four, the preparations all done.

Reverend Albright had arrived, the ballroom at the ready.

Cory's eyes met Jolan's, Jolan looking up at his man.

"I'll see you both downstairs, Jo." Justin said, Jolan's eyes going over the suit Justin wore.

It was a soft grey Armani, his man looking amazing in it.

"Good luck, Cory." Justin smiled, Cory smiling at him.

"Thanks, Justin."
Justin leaned down, kissing his man, then exiting the room.

Jolan smiled at Cory, taking in the young man's amazing physique.

"I see why Simus is so happy. You're an attractive guy, Unky Cory."
Cory did a double-take, Jolan lightly chuckling.

"Well, you will be my uncle."

Cory nodded, then sighed.

"I feel your soul, my friend. I feel your nervousness as well."
Cory looked into Jolan's grey eyes, seeing the love shining back.

"I love him so much, Jo. He's my everything."
Jolan smiled, kissing his friend's cheek.

"I know, Cory. I see that united love in both of your eyes."

"Am I good enough for him, Jo? He's so intelligent, so worldly, so refined. I'm just a New York cop."
Jolan smiled, seeing the love in his friend's eyes.

"You are his world, my friend. I see the love in my uncle's eyes. He loves you completely, Cory."
"I know, Jo. I know he loves me, wants me, and needs me. I guess I'm just getting cold feet."
Jolan smiled, kissing his cheek again.

"Every groom does at this moment. I'm here for you, my friend. I know you'll be there for me."
Cory smiled, kissing Jolan's cheek.

"We haven't talked, but I'd like you to be my best man on that day, Cory. You've always been my dearest friend."

"As have you, Jo. It would be my honor."
Jolan smiled, patting Cory's naked leg.

"Let's get you dressed and down to your man. I feel his need for your love."
Cory smiled, standing up with Jolan, Jolan opening the garment bag on the bed.

Everyone smiled, seated in the Room of Love's Light.

Chairs were set up in an ovular design, one end open facing the room's doorway.

At the other end stood Reverend Albright, Simus and Morgan standing at his left side.

Simus stood in a white tuxedo, his distinguished looks radiating with happiness.

The Dragosan family was on the left side of the oval, their friends there as well.

The right side of the room seated Jolan and Justin's friends and family.

The room was decorated in flowery wonder, Jolan having had everything planned last week.

Candles were lit everywhere, their light brightening the room's semidarkness.

The ceiling had dimmed in its brilliance since yesterday's drama, now returned to its simmering glow.

The aisle to the doorway was lined with rose bouquets in large baskets on pedestals, awaiting Cory.

Britney stood on the right side of the minister, Chris smiling at her from his seat.

Everyone sat in smiling silence, awaiting the ceremony.

A knock came to the door, Reverend Albright smiling.

"Would everyone stand please." he said, everyone smiling, Britney beginning to sing.

Her voice filled the room, the song From This Moment.

Niles and Gordon opened the double doors, Britney's voice carrying across the room.

I do swear that I'll always be there.
I'd give anything and everything and I will always care.
Through weakness and strength, happiness and sorrow,
for better or worse, I will love you with
every beat of my heart.
From this moment life has begun
From this moment you are the one
Right beside you is where I belong
From this moment on

From this moment I have been blessed
I live only for your happiness
And for your love I'd give my last breath
From this moment on

I give my hand to you with all my heart
Can't wait to live my life with you, can't wait to start
You and I will never be apart

My dreams came true because of you
 

Hayden walked into the room, carrying a basket of flowers, his face covered in a wide smile.

He wore a small tuxedo, the boy grinning as he threw flower pedals ahead of himself.

Justin was taking pictures, his son grinning at him, walking forward to the altar.

Behind him walked Jolan, the young man stunning in a black tuxedo, Justin's eyes drawn to his smiling face.

Jolan smiled at everyone, walking forward.

Behind Jolan walked Cory, the young man in a white tuxedo identical to Simus'.

On both sides of Cory walked his uncle and aunt, Thelma in tears, Karl smiling widely.

Jolan smiled at the minister, walking to the right side of the altar, Britney smiling at him and Hayden as she sang, Jolan standing on the right side of the minister, Hayden standing in front of him.

From this moment as long as I live
I will love you, I promise you this
There is nothing I wouldn't give
From this moment on

You're the reason I believe in love
And you're the answer to my prayers from up above
All we need is just the two of us
My dreams came true because of you

From this moment as long as I live
I will love you, I promise you this
From this moment
I will love you as long as I live
From this moment on

The song ended, Cory standing in front of his Simus, Simus' grey eyes taking in the vision before him.

Cory's eyes were matched in happiness with his smile.

Reverend Albright smiled, looking around at everyone.

"Welcome, everyone, to this ending day of the year, and the beginning day of love. Please be seated everyone."

Everyone smiled, sitting down again, Hayden beaming towards his Poppa, Justin winking at him, the boy remaining still in front of his father.

"Whom gives this man to his soulmate?"

"We do, his guardians, and his aunt and uncle." Karl said, Thelma openly crying.

Cory smiled, kissing his uncle, his aunt putting her arms around him, kissing his cheeks.

"Love you, Cory. Be happy!" she said, Cory smiling at her, walking forward, taking Simus' hand in his.

His aunt and uncle sat down, Lynn's arm going around Thelma.

"Dear friends, family and honored guests. We are gathered here today to join two souls of love in a bond sanctified by God. Let us pray." the minister said, everyone bowing their heads.

Jolan's eyes looked around the room, his meeting his Justin's.

They smiled at each other, the minister continuing with his sermon.

"Joined in loved, joined in faith. Surrounded by love and happiness. It is time for your vows, my sons. You may go first, Simus."
Simus smiled, looking into Cory's green eyes.

"I had walked for eons in loneliness, a part of my soul missing. And then one day a young man walked into my life. With him walked my lost soul, my true being joining on the day he said he loved me. You are the second part of me, Cory. Your love resonates in my soul. I am so filled with love now  because of you. It's your love, Cory. I want that for the rest of my life. From this day forward there will be only you in my life. I love you. I'll say that to you till the end of time. I am yours forever."
Cory was in tears, Simus leaning forward and kissing his lips.

The minister smiled, looking at Simus.

"Patience, my child. That comes later."
Everyone laughed, including Cory, Simus softly blushing, his brother Morgan patting his shoulder, the older man smiling at Jolan.

Jolan smiled back, the two nodding.

"You may continue, Cory." the minister smiled, Cory smiling, looking into his Simus' grey eyes.

"You come from a family of history and magic, my Simus. From the moment of my first meeting you I have felt that magic. The magic of your love. It fills me, Simus. It is a part of my soul, my life and my need. I need you in my life, I am lost without you. I love you, you are my everything. My youth gives way to your experience and your intelligence. We need each other, for beauty, for love, and for ever. I love you, from this day and for always."

Simus was in tears, the minister smiling at both.

"Your rings, please place them on each other's finger."
Jolan smiled, stepping forward, handing Cory a ring, Morgan handing Simus one as well.

They both smiled at each other, guiding the golden rings onto each other's ring finger, joining their hands together.

"Do you, Cory Hamilton, take this man to be your husband, soulmate and friend of love? To stand together through good times and bad, through love and hardship, joining in memories of life?"
"I do, with all of my heart and soul." Cory said, smiling at Simus.

"Do you, Simus Dragos, take this man to be your husband, soulmate and friend of love? To stand together through good times and bad, through love and hardship, joining in memories of life?"

"I do, with all of my heart and soul, forever." Simus said, Cory smiling at him.

"Then, before God, your families and friends, and before love, I pronounce you husbands of love. Go in peace, souls of love. Now comes the best part." the minister said, winking at Simus.
Simus grinned, pulling his Cory into his arms, their lips meeting, the room filling with applause and happiness.

Justin took Jolan's offered hand, Jolan guiding his man onto the dance floor.

The wedding dinner had finished, the night now giving way to dancing and merriment.

The two smiled, seeing Hayden dancing in Jennie's and Jonathan's arms, Justin pulling Jolan against him.

"A day of love and happiness, my giving angel. Just look at their faces."
Jolan smiled, his eyes going to Cory and Simus, the two dancing, gazing at each other, lost from the world surrounding them.

"Faces filled with love. A vision I see before me." Jolan said, his eyes now looking into Justin's.

Justin smiled, Jolan's head laying on his chest, the two dancing slowly together.

"The holidays draw to a close my love. Soon we'll be back home."
Jolan sighed, snuggling against Justin.

"Home. I'm so looking forward to it. Just you and me and Hay."
Justin smiled, dancing with his man.

"You're so incredible, my love. What you've done here today, you're so in tune with everyone's hopes and dreams."

Jolan smiled, looking at his watch.

"It's almost midnight, my love. Hay should be in bed."

Justin smiled, kissing his cheek.

"He deserves to see the new year in, Jo. He likes the excitement."
Jolan rolled his eyes, Justin grinning.

"Just like his Poppa."
Justin smiled, Jolan kissing his lips.

"I'll allow it tonight, but that's it."

Justin smiled, the two walking over to their son.

Morgan stood up at the microphone, Chris turning down the music.

"Attention everyone. It's almost midnight. I think our couple of love should begin the first dance of the new year. Would all the couples please join them on the floor."

Simus and Cory walked into the center of the ballroom, everyone clapping, Chris starting the music.

Music filled the room, The Rose beginning.

The two danced, a vision of white love dancing together.

Justin smiled, picking up a yawning Hayden, taking Jolan's hand as well.

Jolan smiled, walking into the middle of the dance floor with his lover and son.

The three joined, other couples walking onto dance floor.

Morgan smiled, offering his hand to Vera, the woman smiling, joining with him.

Everyone was on the dance floor, couples of love and friendship joined.

They danced with love in their hearts, the song ending.

They remained on the dance floor, voicing a countdown together as the hour struck twelve.

"Happy New Year!!" they all screamed, the room filling with Auld Lang Syne.

Everyone clapped, couples joining in deep kisses, Jolan and Justin's lips together, Hayden smiling up at them from Justin's chest.

"Kissies, Poppa and Daddy!" he said, the two breaking their loving kiss, both kissing their son, Hayden smiling, snuggling into Justin's chest, closing his eyes.

Sandra and Jessica both walked up to them, both kissing the boy's head, Hayden not moving.

"Well, he lasted to the moment." Sandra smiled, Jessica's arm around her.

"Yep, he sure did. He has his father's tenacity." Justin smiled, Sandra smiling at Jolan.

"And his love." Sandra said, Jolan smiling at her.

"Welcome to a new year of love, Cassandra. We're in for a wild one."
Everyone smiled, Jolan and Justin beginning to dance again, Sandra and Jessica joining as well.

End of Chapter 112

United in love and matrimony our Simus and Cory now are.

How did you like that surprise?

And so a year ends, the next year of drama looming.

Will it be a year of love or a year of heartache?

I know and I'm not telling.

You'll just have to read on.

To all those that celebrate, I want to wish you a wonderful Easter.

May his words enrich our hearts and lives.

Hugs, Angel

email:  music-fan-1@hotmail.com