Jolan's Path - Chapter 86

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 86

Justin's wide grin brought an even larger smile to Jolan's face.

His lover sat in the middle of a group of energetic, happy, youthful, friends and family.

They all sat around one of the two kitchen tables, Saturday morning's large breakfast finished, the group deep in planned happiness.

Everyone had shown up early, the day's activities being discussed by everyone.

Jolan finished washing the last dish in the sink, handing it to Lynn, she and Lisa drying the dishes and putting them away.

"Our kids are happy. Disneyland always has that effect on them." Lisa said, Jolan smiling at her.

"I've never imagined seeing a world of fantasy. The real world holds too much reality for me." Jolan said quietly as he drained the sink.

Lynn looked at Lisa, two mothers sharing their thoughts.

Jolan finished cleaning up the sink, thanking the ladies for pitching in.

They both smiled, kissing his cheek, returning to the table of adults, everyone smiling towards the other table of youthful happiness, quietly finishing their coffee and tea.

"So we've agreed on the three main venues--Frontierland, Fantasyland and Adventureland. Those three we'll definitely see first. The others we'll see as time permits." Josh said, Chace smiling beside him, seeing his man's youthful happiness shining.

"How much time do we have, Jus? Have you other stuff planned later today?" Chris said, Britney seated beside him, her two boys in her lap.

Hayden sat in Justin's, his smile large and happy.

Justin's eyes went to Jolan's, his man leaning against the kitchen counter smiling at all of them.

"Happiness in a child's eyes knows no time frame. You kids will enjoy the day to its fullness, no watches need wearing. Time is of no consequence."

Everyone smiled, hearing the love in Jolan's voice.

"Thanks, Walt!" Chris said, smiling at Jolan.

"You're welcome, Goofy."

Everyone laughed, Chris smiling at Jolan.

"Touché!"

Jolan grinned, Justin getting up, Hayden in his arms, walking up to Jolan.

Jolan smiled at him, Justin kissing his cheek.

"You're sure you don't want to come, babe?"
Jolan smiled, looking into Justin's blue eyes of happiness.

"This shall be Poppa and Hay's bonding day. Besides, I do have things to get organized for tomorrow. Tomorrow's our Hay's big day."
Hayden smiled at his father, Jolan smiling at him.

"My berfday, Daddy?"
"Yep, little man. Our boy's turning four!" Jolan said, smiling at his son.

Hayden grinned, Justin looking into Jolan's grey eyes.

"Yep, our boy's turning four." he said, Jolan smiling at him.

"I feel bad leaving you with all that organizing, Jo."

Jolan kissed his cheek, then chuckled.

"That's perfectly alright, Jus. If anyone should feel bad it's me. You're the one with a pack of kids to look after. That Joshy looks like a handful. And then there's Chris and Joe. Well, I don't envy you having to discipline those two."

Everyone laughed, Joey and Chris rising up, tackling a now laughing Jolan, pulling him down to the floor.

Josh joined them, sitting on top of Jolan, his fingers tickling the man's armpits as Joey and Chris held him down.

"Stop! Stop! Please stop! Help Justin!!" Jolan screamed with laughter.

Justin laughed, Josh smiling up at him.

Everyone was laughing, the kids all clapping and giggling.

Hayden wanted down, Justin setting him down, the boy running to his father, trying to climb on Josh's back.

"Stop tickwing my Daddy, Unkie Josh! Mes tickwes you!" he giggled, Josh laughing at the small boy on his back trying to tickle him.

Josh turned slowly as he stood, swinging the boy around into his arms, tickling him, Hayden's laughter filling the room.

Josh smiled, kissing the boy's cheek, Hayden smiling at him.

Joey and Chris laughed, releasing Jolan, the young man gasping.

Justin leaned down, pulling Jolan up to his feet, the other two men standing up.

"I love your laughter, my angel." Justin said as his arms wrapped around him, kissing Jolan's lips.

Everyone smiled, seeing the joy and happiness in Jolan's face.

"I am happy, Jus. Because all of you are happy."
Justin smiled, Jolan staring at Josh, Joey and Chris.

"But just remember, revenge is best served cold!"

The three laughed, Joey and Chris saluting him, Josh smiling as Jolan took Hayden from him, his son smiling at him.

Jolan smiled back, Josh sensing something in that mirthful gaze.

"Okay you kids! Time to hit the road! Mickey Mouse is waiting!" Jolan said, the three little ones and Stevie screaming with joy.

Everyone laughed, heading out of the kitchen.

Jolan smiled, driving the SUV into the parking lot, another SUV following him.

"We're here, everyone." he said, parking.

Randall smiled at him, seated in the front passenger seat.

"Where are we, Jolan?" he said, Jolan smiling back.

"Well, the kids are in Disneyland, I figured we adults needed our own happiness."

Everyone smiled, climbing out of the vehicle, the one parked beside them emptying itself of inhabitants as well.

Everyone gathered together, Jolan locking his vehicle.

Simus did the same with the other vehicle, smiling at Jolan.

They looked around, looking up at the buildings in front of them.

"I hear it's one of the best shopping malls in Los Angeles." Jolan said, Lynn smiling at him.

"Yes, Jolan. The Beverly Center has everything." Ally said, smiling at him as well.

Jolan smiled back, sensing her quietness without Lonnie.

Lonnie had gone with Justin and the others, his duties foremost in his mind.

But Jolan sensed that Lonnie loved Disneyland as much as the others, Jolan sensing Ally knew that as well, letting her man have his happiness.

Ally smiled at him, Jolan smiling back.

"I thought we'd do some shopping, then have lunch at the Capital Grille. I know you love steaks, Randall and Simus."

Both men smiled, the others nodding.

"After that, I've got a surprise. Who says the kids are the only ones that can have some fun?" Jolan smiled, the others smiling.

"Cool, Jo. We do need to buy Hayden some gifts for his birthday." Randall said.

Jolan saw the love in Randall's eyes for his new grandson, knowing he wanted to spoil the child.

"Yes, Randall. My boy's birthday."
Everyone smiled, Lynn smiling at seeing Jolan's happiness.

"Well, let's get to it. We have a party to organize." she said, Paul laughing.

"Watch out, Jo. These women may take over!"

Jolan smiled, looking at Lynn, Lisa, Shelly, Ally, Daphne and Rachel.

"I gladly accept their advice and guidance. But my son's happiness I shall devise myself."
Everyone smiled, the ladies seeing his determination to make the day joyous for the boy.

"We'll listen to your suggestions and ideas, Jolan." Lisa said, Jolan smiling.

"Thanks, ladies. Then let's get going! Charge!" he said, everyone laughing, walking towards the mall.

Jolan, Lynn and Domo walked out of Macy's two hours later, the three laden with bags.

"You're spoiling your great-grandson, Grandfather." Jolan smiled, the older man carrying a large bag, a remote control truck laying within it.

"He's my first, Jolan. His blue eyes filled with happiness shall fill my heart." the man said, Jolan smiling at him.

"I'll take these bags to the car. You two go and join up with the others. It's almost time for lunch." Jolan smiled, taking Lynn's bags, Domo nodding as he handed him his.

"Alright, Jolan. We'll meet you in front of the restaurant as we all had agreed." his grandfather said, smiling at him.

Jolan smiled back, walking towards the exit.

Lynn and Domo watched him go out into the sunlit day, Lynn looking at the older man.

"Our boy's extremely happy, Domo."
The older man smiled, looking into her blue eyes.

"Hayden's love has healed him, as has your son's. His life is given over to happiness. And I believe destiny as well."
The woman smiled, looking towards the disappearing young man.

"I hope the future will be kinder to him than his past." she quietly said, Domo looking at her.

The man stared at Lynn, sensing her soft worry.

"He has their love now, Lynn. That in itself makes the past bearable. The future will be filled with that love as well. He shall be happy."
She smiled, nodding.

The two walked further down the mall, heading for the restaurant.

Jolan closed the SUV's hatchback, hitting the lock button on the keychain, the vehicle's doors chirped indicating they were locked.

He smiled, walking through the parking lot heading towards the mall again.

"Another wonderful sun-filled day, Jolan. It does the heart good to feel its warmth."
Jolan stopped at the sound of the voice, his eyes looking towards a bench shaded by large palm trees just to the left of him.

Jolan smiled, walking over to the bench, sitting down beside the man seated there.

"I had been wondering where you'd gone off to, Watcher."
Erasmus smiled, his grey eyes staring at Jolan.

"I have been here and there. It does my heart good to see you happy, Jolan. Their love shines in your silvery eyes."
Jolan smiled, staring at the man.

As usual the man seemed more energized, his looks changed once again.

"You seem stronger, more masculine, Era. The sun does indeed warm your countenance."

The man smiled, Jolan seeing an increased youthfulness in the man's smiling and now younger-looking face.

"Life, and destiny, strengthens me, Jolan. As it will strengthen you."

Jolan nodded, looking out into the sunshine.

"You know all that has past lately?"
The man nodded, looking at him.

"Yes, Jolan. I know you've regained your memories, and your son's love."

Jolan smiled, nodding.

"Why are you here now, Era?"

"Just checking in. Standing by your heart and feeling its greatness. The path begins to widen."
Jolan laughed, the man smiling at him.

"Always the riddles, ancient one. Perhaps you can tell me the truth of your true reality. And the truth of what lays ahead for me."
Era's hand went to Jolan's shoulder, Jolan feeling a tenderness in the man's touch.

"There are still moments of uncertainty in that path's regard. Others are now involved, following your magic. They walk the path for their own purposes."
"Fagin, Brandon and Nathan you mean? Are there others as well?"
Era nodded, Jolan's head lowering.

"I shall protect those I love, Era. Their evil shall not touch any of them."
"Your heart is large, your magic strong, Jolan Dragos. And your foresight is remarkable. You sense the changes coming?"
Jolan nodded, his mind on others.

"Yes, I sense its closeness. My love will need to be much stronger."
Era smiled, leaning forward and kissing Jolan's cheek.

"For that to increase would make you very special. I chose wisely. You are indeed the one."
Jolan's grey eyes met his, the two staring into their souls.

"The one for what? What have you and I to do with all of this?"

"You are you, Jolan. As many have said, you are you. You are love, goodness and truth combined."

Jolan stared quietly at the man, sensing he knew all about everything.
"I am the Watcher, Jolan. I watch all. I watch the past, present and future unfold. You walk the path you must. As do I."

"More riddles."
Era laughed, Jolan smiling at his calmness.

"What you have to do with all of this is easily seen, Jolan. You are the center figure of the path, the beacon for both goodness and evil. Both walk towards you. You mete out what needs giving. Love or justice."

"Do you know where this path leads to? Or when it will end?"
"Yes, Jolan. It leads to the time of Snow and Truth, and the final truth. I am beginning to long for that moment. My soul hungers for it now after so many years of doing his work."
Jolan sat in silence, staring at the man.

A single tear ran down Era's cheek, a wide smile on his face.

Jolan's hand went to his shoulder, Era's eyes meeting his.

"Whose work are you doing, Era? Would it be my grandfather?"

The man's grey eyes looked into Jolan's.

"To look forward towards happiness you must look backward at the pain. Life mirrors truth."

Jolan shook his head, Era smiling at him.

"I'm going to start calling you the Riddler."

Era laughed again, his grey eyes looking forward.

"Someone's following you, Jolan. Today is about courage."

Jolan nodded, looking at the man.

"Walk forward with grace, courage, determination, and most of all, their love. Life mirrors truth."

Jolan stared at the man, Erasmus smiling at him.

"I need to leave, Jolan. My path goes forwards. Walk with love."
The man instantly vanished, Jolan's hand going to his forehead.

He felt a soft pain in his mind, the feeling disappearing immediately.

Jolan sighed, standing up, walking back towards the mall.

Everyone laughed, seated around the table, enjoying the end of their wonderful lunch.

They sat out on the covered patio of the Capital Grille Restaurant.

A cool breeze took out the heat of the hidden sunshine.

"An excellent steak, Jolan. That was delicious!" Simus said pushing his plate away, Calen smiling at his brother.

Cory had gone with the kids, Simus relaxing, his lover's love embedded in his soul.

A waiter picked up their empty plates, Jolan ordering coffee for everyone.

The waiter smiled at Jolan, Jolan's eyes averting his gaze, Lynn watching the young waiter.

He smiled at everyone else, quietly walking away.

"Our waiter seems smitten with you, Jolan." Shelly said, having seen his fawning over Jolan throughout the meal.

Jolan's eyes raised, a soft blush on his cheeks, Lynn's hand going on top of his.

"You need to realize that people will stare at you, Jolan. You are an attractive man, a very attractive man." she said, Jolan nodding.

"They will bend over backwards just to make you feel happy. I've seen it many times with my own son. Women, and even men do it."

Jolan smiled, looking at Lynn.

"Your son's beauty draws many."
Lynn smiled, kissing Jolan's cheek.

"Yes, but he gives it to only one."
Jolan smiled, the waiter returning with their coffees.

Jolan looked at the young man, smiling at him.

"Thank you, Vincent." he said, looking at the name plate on the man's right breast.

The young man smiled, his brown eyes staring into Jolan's grey.

"My pleasure, Mr. Dragos."
Jolan stared at the young man, the man's eyes glued to him.

"You know my name?"
"Yes, sir. I saw your trial on television. Your courageous heart moved me greatly, sir. I immediately went out and bought your book. Its heart and truth astounded me." the young man said, smiling at Jolan, everyone seeing his worshipping gaze.

Jolan smiled at him, the young man's smile increasing.

"Thank you, Vincent. I'm glad you found something of value within those pages."
The young man nodded, smiling widely.

"I found my own courage, sir. I'll always thank you for that."
Jolan softly blushed, the man's words intriguing him.

Before he could comment the young man bowed and quietly walked away.

Everyone smiled at Jolan, Ally's hand patting his hand on the table.

"You see, Jolan? Your writing moves people. They find what they need from its truth and beauty."
Jolan smiled, the woman smiling back at him.

"I guess I did some good after all." he said, Henry smiling at him.

"Your love spreads ahead of you, Jolan. In your written words and your actions."
Jolan smiled, everyone finishing their desserts and coffee.

Towards the end of their lunch, Jolan excused himself, heading for the washroom.

He walked into the washroom, seeing several stalls and urinals lined up together.

He walked up to the closest urinal, quietly doing his business.

He heard the bathroom door open at the end of the room, someone apparently walking into the bathroom.

Jolan finished, walking up to the sinks, washing his hands quickly.

He moved, turning to grab some paper towels, his eyes meeting those of another man who stood against the bathroom wall by the door, the man's arms folded, his blue eyes staring intensely at Jolan.

Jolan recognized the man's face, having seen it on several confrontational occasions.

"Hello, Jolan. Fancy meeting you out here in the real world."
Jolan stared at the man as he pulled paper towels out of a dispenser, wiping his hands.

The man smiled at him, his arms going down, the man moving forward slowly, stopping a few feet in front of him.

"How does it feel to be free, Jolan? I saw your posse of do-gooders surrounding you out there."
"I have nothing to say to you."
"Come on, Dragos. Let's have a chat, off the record. You don't see any cameras with me."
Jolan stared at the reporter, Tim Baxter's blue eyes staring back at him.

The man was in his early thirties, rugged looking, with a look of sanctifying smugness covering his face.

"I have nothing to say to you in any forum, Baxter." Jolan said, beginning to walk towards the exit.

"How does it feel to be Timberlake's bitch?"

Jolan froze, then turned back to look at the man.

"What did you say?" Jolan said, his voice hardening at the man's crass words.

"It's not hard to see that Timberlake's money got you out of that sham of a trial. I don't believe all that bullshit about rape and vengeful Satanists on your tail. Did he pay off the judge, or the jury as well? You must be very good for him to dish out that dough."

Jolan's eyes hardened, his body seemingly rising in stature.

"Justin Timberlake is my friend. He stood by me throughout my ordeal as a true friend. I'll always love him for that. I was freed when my innocence was proven."
The man smiled, his eyes scanning Jolan's face, then his body.

"Don't bullshit me with your fantasies, Dragos. I know he's more than a friend to you."
Jolan eyes narrowed, the man smiling as he walked right up to him.

"I can't prove it, but it's not hard to see. You just have to look at his hungry blue eyes. They look like they want to devour you." the man said, standing right in front of Jolan now, his blue eyes staring at him.

"I don't know what you're talking about. I'm leaving."
The man's hands went out, each one grasping onto Jolan's arms.

"What's the hurry, cutie? I thought maybe you could help me out, like you do for him. I know you're his slut!"

Jolan's eyes widened, the man grinning now.

"Come on, ya little bitch! I've got so much more to feed you than Timberlake!" he said, his body going against Jolan's.

Jolan felt the man's hardening desires.

Jolan only struggled for a moment, his instincts taking over.

The man flew across the bathroom, hitting the far wall, collapsing to the ground.

He gasped, his blue eyes looking towards Jolan in shock.

"Keep your damn hands off me, you bastard!" Jolan said, the man's face flooding now with anger.

"You little piece of shit! I'll teach you how to be a man's bitch!"

The man regained his feet, charging right at Jolan.

Jolan moved even quicker, his fist flying forward, connecting with the man's jaw, the man cringing in pain, his body collapsing to the floor in front of Jolan.

Jolan moved again downward, one fist hitting the man in the stomach, the other hitting his face.

The man rolled over into a ball.

Jolan stood up, staring down at the cringing man.

"Stay away from me, and from Justin! That's my only warning!"

Jolan walked out of the room, the reporter holding himself, the man now a ball of weak, pathetic humiliation.

Jolan stopped outside the bathroom door, holding his own body, tears falling.

He concentrated on his own thoughts, trying to regain control of his emotions.

Within a few moments he'd calmed down, wiping his eyes dry.

He sighed softly, a fake smile of necessity now back on his face, walking back into the restaurant towards his friends and family.

They left the restaurant, Jolan paying the bill, everyone thanking him.

Vincent shook Jolan's hand again, thanking him for everything.

Jolan smiled softly, Lynn quietly watching him.

Lynn sensed that behind Jolan's smiling face there was a man trembling with hurt.

She sensed in her heart that something had happened.

Others picked up on it as well, remaining silent.

They all left the mall, everyone carrying their bags to the cars.

"Where to next, Jo?" Calen said, offering to drive for Simus.

"Just follow me, Uncle Calen. It's time for my surprise."
Calen smiled, Jolan softly smiling back.

His uncle got into his vehicle, Jolan sighing and getting into his.

The two vehicles drove away from the mall, Jolan quietly driving forward.

"Is everything okay, Jolan?" Lynn said, now seated beside him in the front seat.

"Yes, Mom. Everything's fine." he softly said, Lynn not buying it.

"I hope you like my surprise." Jolan said, quickly changing the subject, his grey eyes looking towards her.

"You always surprise, Jo. We'll love it." she said, Jolan smiling a genuine smile now, focusing ahead on the road.

Lynn quietly watched him, her thoughts her own.

A short while later Jolan turned into another parking lot, Calen following.

They parked the vehicles, everyone looking around.

Randall looked up at the sign on the building in front of them.

"Lucky Strike Lanes? We're going bowling?" he said, Jolan smiling.

"Sporty, athletic and fun!" he said, climbing out of the SUV, the others climbing out as well.

"I haven't bowled in years!" Lynn said, smiling at everyone.

"Lisa and I bowl every week in a church league." Randall said, his arm going around his wife.

"I'm a high cross bowler, at it for over thirty years." Domo said smiling.

Jolan smiled looking around at everyone.

"Great! We'll divide into two teams. The Timberlake Angels against the Dragos Darlings!"

Everyone laughed, loving Jolan's surprise.

Simus and Calen looked around, their eyes meeting Jolan's.

"We have never played the sport, Nephew." Simus said with a concerned look on his face.

Domo's hand went to his shoulder.

"No worries, Simus. You'll love it!" he smiled, Simus smiling at him.

Jolan smiled, the group walking into the building.

Two hours later a group of happy adults walked out of the building, laughing happily.

"The Timberlakes are victorious!" Randall said, Calen laughing.

"You only won by five pins, Randall." Simus said, patting Randall's shoulder.

Calen and Simus had enjoyed themselves immensely, as had everyone else, Jolan smiling at their mirthful happiness.

Lynn smiled, sensing Jolan's mood had changed, the man back to almost his usual happy self.

She felt his love flowing towards everyone.

"It was like Flasks and Stones. Remember that childhood game we played, Simus?" Calen said, his brother's smiling face nodding.

"Yes, Calen! The joys we had back then playing it!"

Jolan smiled, his eyes looking towards two people walking towards them across the parking lot.

"Mr. Timberlake! A few words with the Daily News!" one man said, walking up to Randall, Justin's father staring back at him.

Behind the reporter was another man with a video camera.

"I'm sorry. We're just out having fun. We were just heading back home." Randall said, his arm going around Lisa.

"We'd like to ask you about your son's latest involvements, Mr. Timberlake." the man said, his eyes going around the group, stopping at Jolan, whom he'd just spotted.

The reporter's eyes widened, moving towards Jolan, the cameraman following.

"Where's Justin today, Jolan? Are you still staying with him? What's next for you after that book?"

Jolan's face changed, a look of concern crossing it.

"Talk to my lawyer if you have any questions about my life, she's handing my publicity. Right now we're leaving. Come on everyone."

Jolan walked away from the reporter, everyone following him, the reporter shaking his head.

"Smug bastard. Get some video of him, Jake."

The cameraman zoomed in on Jolan, Jolan totally ignoring the two, walking around the vehicle.

Calen looked at him, standing at his driver's door.

"Where to next, Jolan? More fun?" he said with a smile, his eyes going to Lynn seated now in the passenger seat.

"If you don't mind, I'm a bit tired. I think we'll just go back home." Jolan said, walking around the SUV.
Calen nodded, his grey eyes looking at Lynn again, seeing her concern, then back towards Jolan.

"Are you alright, Jolan?"

Jolan stared at his uncle from across the car, Lynn watching Jolan from her passenger seat.

"Just follow us home."
Calen nodded, watching Jolan get into the vehicle.

Calen climbed into his, the two cars leaving the lot, a camera following them.

They drove for about fifteen minutes, Jolan turning into Justin's gated driveway, Calen following him in.

A few vans and reporters still remained outside its gates, Jolan's eyes taking in all of them.

Jolan's vehicle had been relatively silent on this journey home, everyone sensing Jolan's troubled quietness.

They exchanged looks, Lynn quietly silencing their wanting to speak.

She sensed in her heart that Jolan was brooding over something.

She couldn't for the life of her figure out what had changed his mood, twice.

She'd known that Jolan had been uncomfortable with the reporter at the lanes, but she sensed something more behind his mood.

Calen's vehicle, on the other hand, was a flurry of conversation.

Everyone was voicing concern for Jolan's evident mood swings.

They knew in their hearts that something had happened to him.

Jolan himself was deep in thought, his mind filling with worry.

Jolan parked the car, his mind focusing on the moment surrounding him.

His face took on the look of fake happiness again.

"We're home, everyone."

Lynn nodded, everyone quietly piling out of the vehicles.

Jolan helped everyone in with their bags, smiling quietly at all of them.

Everyone quietly began going to their rooms, quiet conversation following them upstairs.

Jolan threw his car keys in the bowl in the foyer, walking towards the kitchen.

Lynn's eyes followed him, Paul's arm going around her.

"What's happened, my love?" he said, Lynn seeing his concern as well.

"I don't know, sweetie. But something's really bothering him. I think I'll go talk to him."
Paul nodded, taking their bags upstairs, kissing his wife's cheek.

"Tell him we all love him."
Lynn smiled, seeing her man had been taken in by Jolan's love.

She walked towards the kitchen.

Jolan stood at the counter, peeling potatoes in the sink.

"I thought I'd get started on dinner. Everyone should be back by seven." he said, not looking at her.
Lynn looked at him, smiling.

"You and your giving heart, Jo. Always thinking about others. Always so well organized."

Jolan nodded, still not really looking at her.

"It's who I am, Mom. Who I really am."

Lynn quietly watched him, sensing a doubtful meaning in his words.

"Life isn't always organized, Jo. Sometimes it throws us moments of clarity, and moments of doubting clarity."
Jolan trembled, Lynn seeing it clearly.

"Did you have one of those moments today, Jolan? Did something happen? We all sensed your changing mood."

Jolan's head turned, Lynn seeing the beginnings of tears in his eyes, the woman crossing the room, wrapping her arms around Jolan.

Jolan instantly sobbed, his head falling onto her chest, Lynn holding him tightly.

"What's happened, Jo? What's wrong?"
Jolan's head raised, the tears flowing.

"What he said! What he said about me! About my Jus!" he cried, lowering his head again.

Lynn looked concerned, Lisa and Randall walking into the room, seeing the emotional sight before them.

Lynn gently guided Jolan over to the table, sitting him down in a chair, the others surrounding him, their hands going to his shoulder and back.

"What's wrong, son?" Randall said, Lisa hearing the love in his voice for this young man, Randall sitting down beside him.

She smiled, seeing Jolan's love had entered her husband's heart.

Jolan raised his head again, staring into Randall's eyes.

He quietly told them about his meeting with Tim Baxter.

Lynn held him, Jolan crying out the words the man had spoken.

"I wanted to hurt him for those words he spoke so menacingly about my Jus. Then he touched me. . .he wanted to. . ."
Lisa's arm went around him as well, Randall gently rubbing his shoulder, not wanting to overwhelm the young man with his touch.

"You didn't deserve that kind of abuse at his hands, Jo. The man's a piece of filth!" Lisa said, Randall nodding his head in agreement.

"He knew about Jus and me! What if. . ." Jolan cried, Lynn now seeing the worry in Jolan's tearful eyes.

His worried protective love for her son.

And she now knew the reasoning behind Jolan's terse words for the other reporter at the bowling lanes.

"Baxter told you he had no proof. He was trying to coerce you into doing what he wanted, son. The man's a leech. He can't hurt you anymore. You protected yourself and you protected our son's honor. We're all here for both of our sons."

"For both of your sons?" Jolan said softly, looking at Randall.

Randall nodded, looking into the young man's grey eyes.

"Yes, Jolan. For both of you."

Jolan moved, Randall's arms wrapping around him, Jolan's head going against his chest.

"Thanks, Randall. Thank you for saying that."
Randall smiled, looking down at him.

"It's Dad, Jo. Just call me Dad."
Lynn and Lisa smiled, hearing Randall's acceptance of Jolan.

Randall held him, looking at his wife and Lynn.

"It's over, son. You're back home wrapped in our protective love. You need a rest, Jo." Randall said, Lynn smiling at him.

Jolan nodded, Randall gently pulling him up, the three surrounding the young man.

"I. . .I'm so tired."
They nodded, others walking into the room, looking at Jo surrounded by Justin's parents.

"Jo's going to lie down for a while." Lynn said, Calen and Simus nodding, Lisa and Randall quietly guiding the young man out of the room.

Henry and Shelly looked at Lynn, as did Paul, Ally, Daphne and Domo.

"What's happened, Lynn?" Ally said, the older woman sighing.

"Jolan's witnessed firsthand my son's surrounding adulation. And their need to rip his life apart for their own needs."
Shelly's arm went around Lynn.

"My son's love he'll need greatly now."
Lynn sat down at the table, beginning to tell them what had happened.

The returning children arrived back home around seven, the house filling with their happiness.

Lynn smiled from the kitchen, hearing their happiness flood the foyer, their feet heading towards her.

She smiled, as did the others sitting around the table, seeing the group's bouncing happiness as they walked into the kitchen.

Justin smiled at his mother, Hayden in his arms, the little boy wearing mouse ears.

"Signed him up for the club, have you?" Lynn grinned, Justin laughing.

"My boy loves Mickey!" he said, everyone smiling at Justin's words.

"It was gweat, Gamma!" the boy said now in her arms, Lynn kissing his cheek.

"Poppa buys me new Tigger!" he said, looking at Justin.

"My boy needed a bigger animal! The other was getting worn." he smiled, Hayden smiling at him.

"Me still keeps udder. It from Mommy!"
Justin smiled, nodding.

"Of course, little man! We'll keep it in your room."

The boy smiled, the others smiling and sitting down.

"It was awesome, Mom!" Stevie said, looking at his mother, as he climbed into his father's lap, Randall smiling at him.

"Where's the rest of the group? All tired out?" Lynn said, Justin smiling.

"Yeah, we dropped them all off at their houses. Briahna was sound asleep." Lonnie said, his arm around Ally.

Cory smiled, sitting in Simus' lap.

Jennie smiled, Jonathan's arm around her, as the two sat down beside Shelly.

"How was your day, Mom? Did you like Jo's surprise?" Justin said, smiling around at everyone, Jolan having told him of his bowling idea.

Everyone looked up at him, Justin catching a look in their eyes.

His blue eyes turned back to his mother, Lynn quietly looking at him.

"Where is Jo anyway?" he said, Lisa standing up and taking Hayden from Lynn.

Lynn's hand went to her son's shoulder, looking at him with deep love.

"Something happened today, Justin."

Justin's eyes suddenly flashed with worry, Randall lifting Stevie up, walking over to his eldest son.

"Jolan's sleeping, Jus. Sit down and we'll tell you what happened to our son."
Justin's eyes widened at his father's words, Randall guiding him to a chair.

Justin stood outside his closed bedroom door, standing alone in silence.

His mind was flooded with different emotions--anger, hurt, worry, love and relief.

Anger at that man for having dared touch his Jolan.

Hurt at knowing his Jolan was almost accosted by someone again.

Worry at what his emotional state would now be.

Unchanged love for the man filling his soul.

And relief that his Jo hadn't been physically hurt by that man.

Lynn and Randall had quietly told him everything, including Jolan's emotional breakdown.

And how Randall's now accepting love had calmed him.

Justin's face had worn a wide smile upon hearing that.

His father now loved Jolan, just like everyone else.

Jolan's love had entered his heart.

Justin teared up, wiping his eyes.

Behind this door lay his life, lay the love he'd always longed for.

And he knew that man was hurting again.

In his heart he'd made a decision.

A decision based on love and truth.

He smiled, quietly opening the door.

He walked into the room, his eyes going to the large bed.

Jolan lay in its center, his body curled up into a ball.

Justin destroyed the distance between them, gently sitting down on the bed, his hand going out to his Jo.

His fingers touched his sleeping face, Jolan's upper body moving forward, snuggling into Justin's hip and knee.

Jolan's head moved, now laying in Justin's lap, Justin's fingers stroking his soft black curly hair.

"I love you, Jo." he softly said, Jolan's grey eyes slowly opening.

Their eyes stared into each other's souls, Jolan moving upwards.

Justin's strong arms enveloped him, Jolan sobbing into his chest.

Justin held him for a long time, Jolan's emotions letting go.

Justin held him until Jolan's tears finally petered out.

Jolan finally raised his head, his wet grey eyes staring into Justin's tearful blue.

"I'm sorry, Jo. I'm sorry I wasn't there to protect you."
Jolan pulled Justin to him, feeling his man's emotions.

"Oh, Jus! That's so not true! Your love protects me always."

Justin cried, Jolan leaning forward and kissing his lips.

"That man's going to pay, Jo! I'm going to make him pay for what he tried to do to you!"

Jolan lowered his eyes, Justin sensing a deep hurt within him.

"Why do people want to attack me like that? I didn't do anything to him. . .I didn't come on to him. . ."

Justin heard the hurt and confusion in Jolan's words, the young man wanting to know why.

"This in no way was your fault, Jo. That man is to blame! You did what you had to do to protect yourself."

"He said. . .he said. . .he knew about us, Jus!"

Justin wrapped his arms around him again, Jolan holding onto him for life.

"He said I was your slut. . .your bitch. . ."
"You are not those hateful things, Jo. You are the man I love. A caring, loving, beautiful man. We walk together in equal love, respect and trust. I don't use you, I love you."
Jolan teared up, looking into Justin's blue eyes again.

"I love you so much, Justin!"

Justin pulled him close, his hand rubbing his back.

"I don't give a heck what he thinks he knows, he has no proof. And right now I don't care if he does. All I'm concerned about is that you're okay. That he didn't hurt you."
Jolan broke their hold, staring at Justin, tears again showing in Jolan's eyes.
"Your beauty shines for all to see, my love. There are people in this world who think they can take whatever they want instead of earning it with love and respect. Baxter's one of those people. He was envious of something he'd never be given truthfully, so he tried to take it by force. Only he didn't realize the strength and courage of a loving man."
Jolan softly smiled, Justin wiping his tears away.

"I'll never let anyone hurt me like that again, Justin. And I'll never let anyone hurt you with hurtful words."
Justin smiled, leaning forward and kissing Jolan's lips.

The two parted, Jolan softly sighing, Justin pulling him down with him, the two laying together.

"I don't want someone like that to threaten your career, Jus. I shouldn't have attacked him."
Justin moved, pulling Jolan against him, Jolan's head on his chest, Justin's strong arms around him.

"You did a courageous thing, Jo. You stood up for me and more importantly yourself. You said no to him, and he paid the price for his cowardice."

"I'm sorry, Jus. I'm sorry for perhaps giving them more to stoke their fires. If they learn of my confrontation with Baxter, it could backlash on you. I'm sorry. I just hate this part of your life, this barrage of media attention."
Justin kissed Jolan's forehead, his lover remaining against him.

"Baxter won't reveal your rebuke of him. It would tarnish his reputation. I've known the guy for years. You today revealed the sleaziness of that man's true self. He'll stay clear of us for now. But I promise you, the next time we meet he'll have me to answer to. No one hurts my Jo."
Jolan moved, his head raising, looking into Justin's loving blue eyes.

"Revenge isn't the answer, Jus. That would bring you to his level."

Justin looked into Jolan's grey eyes, seeing his shining love.

"He hurt you, Jolan. I love you and I'll always stand up for you."
Jolan softly smiled, Justin leaning upwards, kissing his lips.

"Now onto the truth in all of this. The core of all this."
Jolan looked into Justin's blue eyes, seeing his wisdom and love.

Jolan sat up, Justin sitting up beside him, his arm going around him, Jolan sinking into his body.

"You hate my being a celebrity, and my need for privacy. Don't you?"
Jolan looked into Justin's blue eyes, his love still there.

"I love you, Jus. I love you totally, and that includes all aspects of your life. I don't hate anything about you."

"Then what are you worried about, Jo? Everyone downstairs with you today felt your worry. And here now I feel it greatly."

Jolan moved, Justin releasing him, Jolan walking over to the window, looking out into the backyard, seeing people around the pool.

Justin got up, walking up to him, enveloping him in his arms from behind.

"I'm scared, Jus."
Justin turned him around, looking into his grey eyes.

"Scared of what?"

"I'm scared that I'll ruin your career, Jus. That my love for you will force you into the open. Will force you to reveal your true self."
Jolan's head lowered, Justin's fingers going to Jolan's chin, raising it.

Their eyes met again, Jolan staring into Justin's beautiful pools of blue liquid.

Justin saw the truth in Jolan's now grey eyes of worry.

"That reporter picked up on it, he somehow knew! He knew that I was. . .that I. . ."

"Jolan, you are not what he said you were. I already told you that. That man was grasping at straws. He was looking for someone he could bully into submission. He didn't find that in you. Your courage and strength showed him that."

"But if he. . . if he figured it out. . .what's to stop others?"
Justin saw where Jolan was going, his attitude towards the other reporter now showing that.

"Do you love me, Jolan?"

Jolan stared at Justin.

"With all my heart, Jus."
"Do you know I love you? That I love only you?"
Jolan stared at Justin, his questions said with determination.

"Yes, Jus. I know you love me. That you love only me."

"There. You just revealed the truth in all this. You didn't deny my love for you. And I'll never deny yours. I love you, Jo. And yes, that truth will be eventually revealed to the world. I've decided I'm not going to hide it anymore, Jo."
Jolan looked stunned, about to speak, Justin putting a finger to his lips.

"I want to thank you for today, Jo. For Hayden's and my special day."

Jolan looked at Justin, seeing a look of total happiness on his face.

"Today, I felt like a real father, Jo. That's what you gave me today. You gave me a glimpse of the life I shall have with you, and with Hayden. I now have all the love I'll ever need. And I don't care who knows that."
Jolan teared up, Justin smiling at him, seeing the look in Jolan's eyes.

The look of total love.

"You yesterday set me on the path of my musical happiness again, Jo. And today you gave me complete love. You will never destroy my career, Jo. I'll sing and do everything with your love in my soul. The world will just have to accept that."

Jolan teared up, Justin pulling him against him.

"It's you and me together forever, babe. I love you."
Jolan tightened his hold on Justin, Justin feeling his love.

"I love you, Jus."
Justin smiled, Jolan's lips meeting his.

They kissed deeply, feeling each other's deep love.

"So, do you feel better? I don't want you feeling any worries about my life or my career. Okay?"

Jolan smiled, nodding.

"The press will hound us, Jo. I've dealt with their need to know all throughout my career. Soon, my love, there will be nothing that won't be known. I love you enough to promise you that."
Jolan smiled, kissing him again, Justin sensing his returned happiness.

"I love you, Jus. I want that moment to be when you're ready. When you know in your heart it's time to be truly free."
Justin smiled, his fingers rubbing Jolan's cheek.

"I've known that since the first moment I looked into your grey eyes of love. Soon, my love."

Jolan smiled, Justin smiling back.

"Mom has dinner ready. And your son is dying to tell you about Disneyland!"
Jolan smiled, Justin beaming.

"Did Poppa spoil him today?"
Justin blushed, Jolan pulling off his polo shirt, Justin's eyes going to his smooth chest.

"I made sure he was happy. He loved it."

Jolan smiled, leaning forward and softly kissing his Justin's lips.

"So now how about you making your man feel happy? A little wet happiness?"
Justin smiled, Jolan pulling his shirt out of his jeans.

"I need your love too, Poppa."
Justin laughed, taking Jolan's hand in his, the two walking into the bathroom.

Half an hour later the two walked hand in hand out onto the patio, Hayden's blue eyes looking up towards his father, the boy playing with his new tiger in Randall's lap on the patio floor.

"Me gots new Tigger, Daddy! Poppa gets for me!"
Jolan smiled widely, picking up his son and the orange tiger he had clasped in his hands.

"That's super, Hay! A new playmate for Tigger!"

Hayden laughed, Jolan kissing his cheek, smiling at Justin.

"The other one was getting a little worn, Jo. Now he has two."
Jolan smiled, seeing Justin's giving love.

"Spoiling our son just before his birthday. What am I going to do with you?"
"You're going to love me, that's what your going to do."
Jolan smiled, Justin winking at him.

"Every day, my love. Every day forever."
Justin smiled, everyone seated around the patio smiling at Jolan.

"I'm sorry for my mood, everyone. My man showed me the reality of our lives."
Lynn stood up, walking up to Jolan, kissing his cheek.

"It can be an open, uninviting life at times. But what happened to you today wasn't that. That man went beyond that."

Jolan nodded, Justin looking at him.

"I can't stop people from going over the line. But I can and always will stop them from hurting me or those I love. Someone today told me that life mirrors truth. And my life is love. I will always reflect that."
Lynn smiled, kissing his cheek again, Jolan returning the kiss.

"As long as you're alright, son." Randall said, Jolan smiling at him, setting Hayden down, the boy running into Randall's arms again.

"I am, Dad. Your son's seen to that."
Justin smiled, seeing the two smiling at each other.

One of his greatest wishes had come true.

His father had truly accepted his love for Jolan, and Jolan's own love for him.

Justin's thoughts brought a smile to his face.

One down, two to go.

Total freedom and complete love.

"Well, we've got dinner ready, Jo. I know we're not chefs like yourself, but I think we're passable." Lisa said, Lynn smiling beside her.
Jolan smiled at both of them, the young man sitting at the patio table, Hayden in his lap.

The boy had regaled him for over half an hour with his day's adventures, Jolan seeing Justin's happiness throughout the boy's story.

"That's great, I'm starving." he said, Lisa laughing.

The patio tables were all set with dinnerware and flatware.

The front door buzzer went off, Jolan smiling.

"I'll get that. I am expecting someone." he said, handing Hayden to Justin.

Justin smiled, a look of intrigue on his face, Hayden smiling up at him.

Jolan walked into the house, everyone's eyes following him.

"Now who could that be? The guys said they wouldn't be back till tomorrow." Trace said, Cindy sitting in his lap.

"Jolan had a look of happiness on his face. Are we in for another surprise?" Henry said, Justin looking towards him.

"With our Jo, anything is possible." Daphne said, she and Rachel relaxing in wicker chairs.

"Is he really okay, Justin?" Lonnie said, Justin hearing the concern in his voice.

"Today upset him greatly. Another moment of attacking hurt. But my love was strong enough to open his heart to the truth. The truth of what my love means to him, and what he means to me. We'll walk the path together."

"It's nice to not be alone anymore."

Justin's eyes moved, staring at Jolan standing in the doorway.

His lover smiled at him, the young man walking out onto the patio, walking up to Justin and Hayden.

He leaned down, kissing Justin deeply, everyone smiling.

The two parted, Jolan picking up his son, setting him down on the patio, the little boy looking up at him.

Jolan knelt down, smiling at his son.

"I love you, Hayden. This is my first birthday gift to you."
The boy smiled, looking towards the patio doorway.

In the open doorway stood two young women.

The boy's face lit up with a large smile.

"Mommy!!"

The boy ran to the door, his small frame engulfed in Theresa's kneeling, open arms.

The woman was crying, holding her child in her arms, Jessica standing behind her, her hand on Theresa's shoulder.

Jolan smiled, looking at both of them.

Life mirrors truth. Well said, Erasmus.

Jolan smiled, Justin's hand going in his, his lover at his side.

End of Chapter 86

Well, well.

The group just keeps getting bigger.

Jessica Biel is now in the center of Justin's world.

How will that set with his friends and family?
Has Theresa returned for her son?

Will Justin's newfound inner circle of love be broken?

Jolan has weathered another attack of hurt, his Justin showing him the truth of his love.

What decision has Justin made?

And how will Jolan react to it?

Erasmus has popped up again, intriguing Jolan with riddles of uncertainty.

What is this man's connection to Jolan?

Have we seen the last of Tim Baxter?

Or shall the man cause problems for our twosome of love?

Well, you know the drill!

Read on, and find out what I've devised.

LOL.

A shout out to Kona, Trish, Rod, Jules and Jay, my diehard fans.

Your kind words have humbled my soul.

I'd love to hear from others as well.

Please let me know how I'm doing.

Always open to suggestions.

Hugs, Angel.

email: music-fan-1@hotmail.com