The last time we were together (3)

May-June, 8 Years ago, various locations City K

Matthew, having agreed to Lexi's request headed to JL International's headquarters and see Phillip. She had been, ever since Chester married and this was her words 'that witch Susan' Phillip was downhearted. He wondered is Lexi really knew the truth why but unless she was willing to say he was not going to enlighten her.

Given how things were the last time he had spoken to Phillip, Matthew decided not to go in his uniform, despite having the right as that would annoy Phillip more. He had in the time since joining missed having a good relationship with his brother and wanted to do everything to repair it. Rather than having to ask permission for entry to presidential level where Phillip had his office, Matthew located the pass key that his lawyers had secured for him which would take him to that level without incident.

Arriving, dressed in a business suit no staff paid any attention to him, and he was able to quickly enter the elevators and head to the presidential level. This total lack of security was something that he would have to address with Phillip, as his move to the special forces would make Phillip vulnerable and potentially endanger national security. He walked up to Phillip's assistant and showed him his identification. Realising that this was his boss' brother Matthew was simply waved through.

As he walked into Phillip's office Matthew was hit by the memories of just over twelve months ago when he walked into Phillip's office having been told that Chester was there. That was not unusual for Matthew given how close they were, but he found the two of them locked into a passionate kiss, both partially dressed and oblivious to his entry. That had confirmed to Matthew what he has suspected for a couple of years, Phillip and Chester were gay, and involved with each other. The two of them had only realised Matthew was present when he closed the door and disturbed them.

That time Phillip was livid at Matthew's actions, but Mathew had reassured the two of them he did not care about the fact that the law made their relationship illegal, if they were happy and careful, he would do nothing.

For Matthew this time unlike the happy Phillip that he had seen, despite everything, he found a shattered Phillip. As he shut the door he walked across and sat down in front of Phillip before saying, "Phillip, what is it?"

Phillip looked up and realised that it was his brother. How he had missed having Matthew with him in his life and here he was. "Matthew …" came a shattered cry from Phillip.

Matthew realised that all his brother needed was a hug, so he quickly moved around and gave Phillip a hug, going "Phillip, you know I love you." That simply had Phillip burst out into tears. Matthew realised that his brother had not cried in front of him ever since he commenced working at JL International.

After a couple of minutes, Matthew said "Now come on Phillip, let us sit and tell me what is going on. You know I see the company accounts and over the last few months I have had concerns…"

"Damn you Matthew, you know my heart is broken."

"Phillip, I know you love Chester and want to be with him, but you need to realise that he has made his choice. I suspect that the marriage will not last as ultimately, he will not survive the pressures of that relationship. You must accept that as your reality for now, as at least it will allow you to keep a relationship with him, even if it is only based on friendship, despite it not being what you want. And before you ask that is from your brother not the military officer who is visiting you. Now let us talk about you, your health and business. I promised Lexi that I would be free once she finishes at school to spend time with her."

Over the next couple of hours Phillip and Matthew talked about various things, including Matthew's assignment and appointment as an officer; their relationships; Phillip's recent Cancer diagnosis; and most importantly business. Matthew could not believe in those few short hours how their relationship had changed.

Matthew was surprised about the reason for the change with Phillip when he explained it. Phillip, when he received his Cancer diagnosis visited his late friend Walter Dong's parents, his father who was not a Senator and rumoured to be the vice-presidential partner of the leading contender to become the next president. They had told him that life was short and that he should not let his prejudices impact his family relationships. As Phillip explained it, they made him realise that he would regret his actions if something happened to Matthew. Matthew could only be grateful to the sneaky Senator who knew what he was doing in the military.