Season 3 Review
Season 3, Episode 1 - Opening the scene at the anniversary party for Melanie and Lindsay, Michael gets punched by Brian. Then the recap to what happened to cause it.
Justin wakes up in Ethan's bed as he is treated to violin music and breakfast in bed (chocolates.) Justin cuts it short because he has school, work and to collect his stuff from Brian's place confirming his new commitment to Ethan.
Talk is all over town about the break up of Justin and Brian, including his friends who think Brian got what he deserved, but Michael still thinks it was Brian who was wronged. Michael acts as if this is his business to the annoyance of his mother. Michael runs into Justin at the diner and follows him to the dump to warn Justin to stay away and ask for him to disappear from all of their lives.
Justin quits the diner without saying goodbye. Debbie is upset that Justin quit without saying goodbye. Michael informs her that he is the one who asked him to leave.
Everyone assumes Emmett and Ted are an item as everyone last saw them go home together. Nothing happened as they were both too drunk, but they let everyone continue to assume something happened as they wrestled to come to terms with the nature of their relationship. A talk with Vic and Deb had them thinking if having sex was worth putting their friendship on the line. Vic and Carlos used to be best friends until they slept together and Vic never saw Carlos again after a few month. Eventually, they do get up the nerve to give it a try.
Justin does his errands. His first stop is at Brian's loft where it is empty, but is haunted by memories of them making love. Justin quickly packs his things and leaves to go to Mel and Lindsay's home. He wanted to drop off his gift to avoid the party, but they assure him they want him to come and are still his friends in spite of what happened with Brian. They also ask him to bring along Ethan.
As Ben had sublet his apartment thinking he was going to Tibet, he can't get out of the contract and needs a place to stay. Michael makes the offer for him to move in with him and Ben accepts.
On the first night, a half drunk and despondent Brian comes by to get Michael to go out with him. Ben encourages him as Brian needs a friend. They go to Babylon and dance as it reminds them of how things used to be before Justin and the gang - just the two of them against the world.
At the party, Justin arrives with Ethan and Michael is up in arms while Debbie tells him they were both invited guest and have a right to be there. When Debbie sees Justin and Ethan try to sneak past her, she chews Justin out for quitting and informs him that she still cares about him and Michael does not speak for her and expects him to come to work in the morning. Then she introduces herself to Ethan.
Brian picks up a couple in the bar who is arguing over silverware patterns. Getting annoyed at these bears acting like dykes, he offers to take them to someone who can help settle their argument. He takes them to the party where Mel and Lindsay are stunned, but glad to help as Brian runs off to use the toilet where he runs into Justin. Brian tells him, "I hope you getwhat you want," as Justin leaves. Brian goes back out and runs into Michael who is going on about how Justin is selfish and did him wrong. Brian keeps telling him to shut up about Justin, but Michael keeps it up. Fed up, Brian slugs Michael and is kicked out of the party.
Brian goes to Michael's store to apologize for hitting him and Michael apologizes for not minding his business. Brian wants Michael to make up with Justin so he can continue his comic book dream.
Season 3, Episode 2 - Justin meets his mom at a restaurant to talk and let her meet Ethan. Jennifer is thrilled that he has such a nice young man like Ethan in his life and that he is no longer with Brian. Justin needs money for school and he won't take any from her. Jennifer tells him to ask his father for the money, but Justin doesn't think that's a good idea. She asks him to try it anyway.
Ted and Emmett did in fact make love and considered it the start of a good relationship, until Emmett ran into Dijon, a flight attendant he made a date with before he was serious with Ted. Dijon hands Emmett his card and asks him to stop by. Emmett goes over to Dijon only to tell him he can't cheat on Ted, but gets tempted and does Dijon. Ted finds out and is hurt.
Melanie and Lindsay are walking Gus in the park with a friend, Dusty. Dusty asks them when they plan on having another child. Lindsay tells her she has her hands full with just one, but Melanie winks and nods at her. Later, when Melanie runs into Dusty again, she tells her not only are they planning on having another child, but already picked out names for it. Word gets back to Lindsay about this conversation and she confronts Melanie to have it out. She says if Melanie wants a child so badly to have it herself. Melanie protests saying the doctors told her she could never have children, but Lindsay brings up the fact there are all kinds of treatments for that now.
Justin goes to his father's home where he finds out he has a new girlfriend. He shows his father his art. His father tells him how proud he is he was able to overcome everything that happened to him since the accident. Justin brings up the subject he needs money for school. His father doesn't really want to help until he finds out he is no longer seeing Brian, then puts on the condition that Justin must go to business school. Justin tells his father he will never be straight and will never be a businessman.
Brian goes to the comic book store to talk to Michael and asks him to go out. Michael says he can't as he had plans with Ben to eat at his mom's. A customer wanted to know when the next issue of Rage would be out. Michael tells him he's not sure. Brian asks Michael to make up with Justin so they can get it done.
Michael did approach Justin earlier when he went to collect his money from Rage Issue One to suggest they continue with the comic book, but after all that happened Justin did not want anything to do Michael or Rage. Michael reminded him that they had a commitment to see it through, but Justin said he felt betrayed and can't keep that kind of promise.
Brian has been taking Michael out everyday for over a week. Deb and Vic invited Ben and Michael over for dinner, but only Ben showed up. Brian kidnapped Michael right out of the comic book store and grabbed his cellphone to let the battery die. Michael spent all night watching Brian do other guys in the same way Justin used to do. Deb told Ben to stop being such a nice guy trying to understand Brian. If he didn't put his foot down, Brian will have Michael out all the time leaving him alone.
Justin goes to the financial aid to see if he could get a loan or a grant to stay in school, but is informed that his tuition has been paid for the entire run. He figures out that it was Brian who paid it, so he visits Brian to tell him he can't accept it as they are no longer seeing each other. Brian reminds him that he made that promise to him to pay his tuition and it was to be paid back at the end of school. Justin thanks him and wonders how he will pay him back, but Brian reminds him that he has an opportunity to make a lot of money if he would just keep his commitment.
Melanie talks to Deb at the diner about her situation with Lindsay. Deb says it is very reasonable that if she wants another baby that she should have it herself as Lindsay is not ready to go through that again. Melanie explains she is scared and thinks Lindsay is more brave and a woman that she is. Deb convinces Melanie that motherhood may be a scary thing, but it is worth it.
Emmett goes to Ted at work to talk about what happened and apologizes. Emmett wishes for his friend Ted to talk to right now about why he does foolish things like that. As a friend, Ted says not to beat himself up as he has a problem with resisting such things, but as a lover he still feels betrayed. Either way, he still loves Emmett as a friend and a lover.
Justin goes to the comic book store and makes a suggestion to Michael about the next issue of Rage. Michael says that is a great idea, but thought he wanted nothing to do with him or the comic. Justin says he has to keep his side of the deal.
Michael comes home to find Ben packing and ready to move out. Ben tells Michael it was a mistake moving in and he doesn't want to be left at home every night. Michael convinces him to stay. When Brian asks Michael out, Michael puts his foot down and says he will not go with him.
Season 3, Episode 3 -Melanie is told she is ready to have a baby, but they need to find a father. Lindsay suggest Brian so their children will have the same father. Melanie hates the idea, but agrees to ask to please Lindsay who insists the children should have the same father.
Melanine and Lindsay approached Brian about being the father, but Brian scoffs at the idea. After thinking about it for awhile, he agrees.
Lindsay and Melanie are approached by the Center to help out with a fund raiser. They are in desperate need for funds. They suggest letting Brian do it, but they are hesitant about it after the last stunt he pulled. They go to Brian with the idea who hesitates, but says he will do it with conditions. They take the proposal back to the Center which includes a Carnivale theme. They like the idea, but are offended that Brian wants to be paid. It was accepted as it was get a percentage of something or 100% of nothing.
Debbie is going on a date with Detective Horvath and is excited, but nervous. She asks him what he had in mind and he suggests they stay at her home and watch TV. She tells him the only working TV is in her bedroom. He hints that's the point.
Brian approaches Justin in the diner with a proposal to do a poster for the Center. He offers Justin money, but he turns it down at first because it is for charity until Brian shames him into taking something for his efforts. Justin set the price and does not back down which makes Brian proud.
At home, Justin is working on the poster as Ethan is telling him about his plans for a party with his friends. Justin doesn't really care to go as he feels he does not fit in with that crowd. Ethan asks him about the poster he is doing and Justin says it is for the Center and that he is being paid big money for it. When Ethan questions how he got that gig, Justin said a friend gave him that assignment. Ethan knew the friend was Brian.
Justin sees Brian on the streets and gets paid for his work and is given 2 tickets for Carnivale. Ethan approaches them as they are talking trying to make Brian see that Justin belongs to him now and rejects the offer for the tickets.
At the gym, Deb shows up which makes Michael totally uncomfortable. She explains she is only there to get in shape for her date. Emmett and Ted kid Debbie about dating a cop and asking if he was good in bed. Debbie was embarassed, but admitted she has not been with a man so long that she wouldn't remember what to do. The boys offer to help her.
In the locker room, Ben overhears some guys talking about his former lover. He asks them what they were saying and learns he finally died of AIDS. Ben is angry and scared and shares that with Michael, but then starts to keep more to himself as he wants to make sure he stays fit. The next day Ben goes back to the gym to find a man who sells steroids and starts his super workout routine.
In the privacy of Deb's home, Emmett and Ted show Debbie a wide assortments of dildos to pick out. They teach her the art of oral pleasure on a man. She protests at first thinking she cannot possibly do something like that, but is convinced by them that this is a guaranteed way to please a man.
Debbie has really impressed the Detective with her skills and implies that she is an old pro. Debbie is offended and orders him out of her room. Ted and Emmet ask her how the date went and she was almost in tears as the detective treated her like a slut. The boys go to the station to tell him they were the ones who taught her those things.
Ethan and Justin arrive at the party where Justin feels uncomfortable as Ethan rubs elbows with his friends. Justin asks to be excused and insists Ethan stay with his friends, but will be at home waiting for him.
The Carnivale is a grand success! They are making a lot of money for the Center, but the committee is less than pleased as the Carnivale displayed everything stereotypically negative associated with the gay community. They don't, however, turn down the money.
While at Carnivale, Michael tells his friends Ben probably won't show up, but he shows up and carries Michael off to have some fun.
Detective Horvath goes to Debbie's house to apologize and let her know Ted and Emmett told him what happened. He, in turn, asked for tips from two lesbians on the force and wanted to show her what he learned;-)
Brian spots Justin at Carnivale and asks where his boyfriend was. Justin said he came alone as he wanted to check it out, then walks away.
At home, Melanie and Lindsay discuss about Brian being the father. Melanie refuses as that stunt he played on the Center proves how much of a loose cannon he is. She will think about other options.
Season 3, Episode 4 - Brian is working on a new account as his sister bursts in begging him to watch her son as she had to attend to an emergency. After being talked into the task, she rushes off and his nephew starts to mouth off, showing his homophobic tendancies.
Brian takes his nephew to the diner where he offends everyone he sees. Michael comes up to his nephew and asks if he remembered him. He didn't. But Michael offers to show him his comic book store and to give him some freebies which changed his tune and he developed a "sudden case of nice".
Lindsay and Melanie go to task thinking of all the men they know to be the father. They rule out everyone until they see how good Michael was to Brian's obnoxious nephew. They knew they had the right choice.
Melanie and Lindsay go to Michael and tell him they are planning to be parents again, but this time they want Michael to be the father. He agrees. Of course when word gets out, Debbie brags to everyone she is going to be a grandma. Ben thinks it is a great idea and tells Michael he always wanted to be a father, but it would be great to be an uncle.
Ben is working out a lot lately and seems not to have much time for Michael. He has been using steroids and is seeing amazing results, but doesn't want to stop the cycle.
After a date, Ted proposes to Emmett to move in with him. Em is against the idea as that was a step he didn't think they were ready for, but Ted said it was better to find out sooner than later if they can get along.
Emmett starts to move his stuff into Ted's apartment as the guys hang out watching the hot guys move Em's stuff. Brian gives the new living arrangements with Ted and Em a whole 24 hours. They talk about Michael being a father and he wonders if he is really ready, but they assure him he will be okay.
While taking a shower, Brian's nephew goes through his stuff and steals money and his bracelet. Brian catches him in the act as his nephew gives him a hard time, to which Brian picks him up and gives him a "swirly" (head in the toilet and flushed.) His nephew vows revenge.
Michael is excited about being a father until Melanie and Lindsay give him the legal papers which absolve him of all parental rights. Michael was under the impression he would be more involved in the life of the child he created. Having grew up without a father, he didn't think he could be a party to this and turned them down.
At Brian's loft, he is with a man having fun, only to be interrupted by a policeman who insists he comes to the station with him. Brian is accused of molesting his nephew. Detective Horvath goes over to Debbie's house to let her know that Brian was in trouble and needed help. When she hears the charge, she, Vic and Justin tell him those charges cannot be true.
Once moved in, Em really makes himself at home. He has rearranged the furniture, left a big mess in the kitchen and disposed of Ted's lucky nail. That was the last straw and sent Ted into a tantrum. Em is hurt thinking it was their place, but Ted kept referring to it as his place. Em moves out and goes back to his old apartment, surprising Michael and Ben.
Justin remembered an earlier discussion Brian's nephew had at the diner and knew to find him at the arcade instead of at choir practice. He goes to the arcade to ask why he is doing this. Then he notices Brian's shell bracelet and leaves.
Melanie and Lindsay discuss other options for the father. Lindsay thinks she is being too stubborn about the contract, but Melanie reminds her of the trouble they had with Brian. Lindsay reminds her that Michael is nothing like Brian and could be trusted. Lindsay senses a control issue in Melanie and tells her being a parent sometimes means having faith in people and trusting things will work out...if she can't handle that then maybe she shouldn't be a mother.
Ted finds Em alone having a drink and talks to him and apologizes for blowing up at him. He shows Em a clip from "Dear Abs," an advice columinst. The article was about a roommate who had problems with his boyfriend moving into his place... Dear Abs suggested they get their own place together and move out of his place. Ted suggests they do the same thing, but find a house big enough to accomodate all their distinct tastes and lifestyle. Em agrees.
Brian's nephew comes home to be ambushed by Detective Horvath, Debbie, Justin, and his mother demanding to know the truth. Justin points out that the accusation was made because Brian caught him stealing his stuff. He denies that. Justin also mentions seeing him wear Brian's bracelet at the arcade and his mother confirms seeing it and how he lied to her about how he got it. She demands he show it to Detective Horvath. Justin tells him it should have Brian's initials carved in it. As his story falls apart, he goes after a cheap shot that he deserved this after all he is gay. Debbie tells him, "Shame on you," as he runs off to his room then she says to his mother, "Especially, shame on you." Then they leave.
Melanie and Lindsay visit Michael again with the idea of being the father. They tear up the contract and let him know if he decides to do this, he will have full parental rights. He agrees.
Justin gives Brian his bracelet back and attaches it on for him as Brian thanks him and shooed him off to his boyfriend.
Season 3, Episode 5 - Ethan plays his heart out in a talent competition but does not win first place, however his talents do not go unnoticed as he is approached by a talent agent eager to sign him up. He agrees to meet with him and talk about what he had in mind. The agent assures Ethan this is a chance of a lifetime, but as Justin leaves the table Ethan is told he can no longer have anything to do with him and must appear straight or there is no deal.
Michael is concerned that Ben is spending too much time at the gym. Now that Michael is going to be a father, they must have sex only according to Melanie's cycle. They had the perfect opportunity to be together, but Ben wanted to go to the gym instead.
Excited about being a potential father, Michael goes to the sperm bank for collection purposes only to have performance anxiety once he is in a clinical setting with nothing but straight porn and people listening outside the door.
Ted and Emmett talk to Jennifer and she finds out they are looking for a house. She hands them her card and says she wants to help them.
Ethan breaks the news to Justin who is excited about Ethan's leap into fame. Ethan said he turned it down because it would mean they could no longer be together.
Brian learns of Ethan turning down a chance for success and feels his usual disgust of the so-called noble act. He seeks Ethan who is playing on the street in the cold and asks why he turned down his big chance. Ethan didn't really want to hear him out for fear he only wants him out of the picture so he could have Justin to himself. Brain assures him he has no intention of getting Justin, but feels he is being pathetic as there is nothing noble about being poor. He could make it big and fulfill his dreams now before he regrets throwing away this opportunity.
When Michael tries to catch a moment of Ben's attention and affection, Ben gets agitated and goes off on Michael who is trying to stop him from going to the gym.
Ethan talks to Justin about his change of plans. He would sign the contract. When Justin asked why and what that would mean to them, Ethan tells him, "There is nothing noble in being poor." Immediately, Justin knew Brian was behind this.
Ted and Emmett are torn between two homes. Ted wants one that is new and more practical while Emmett wants an older home with a lot of charm. Emmett decides to give into Ted. After all, he would be happy anywhere as long as he was with Ted.
Ben tries to talk to Michael about his behavior, but Michael is a little peeved that all he seems to do is yell at him lately. Ben wants to make things right and wants to go to bed with him, but Michael can't as he has to perform for the girls. Ben storms out angry again.
Michael talks to Ted at his work about his problems with Ben, then he spots a hunk in a superhero suit which gets him turned on. He asks Ted for a cup quickly and then runs his load to Melanie and Lindsay who quickly apply the first treatment.
Justin is angry at Brian for interfering with Ethan's decision and accuses him of doing it to break them up. Brian turns it around on him and ask him if he thinks that what love is all about - giving up on your hopes and aspirations in the name of love?
Ted, Emmett and Jennifer meet up to close the house deal. Ted surprises Em when he discovers the new home they got is the one Emmett wanted.
Season 3, Episode 6 - Michael wakes up and peaks in on Ben who is shooting himself up with steroids. Michael runs into Brian later on in the day and tells him about that episode and guesses what was in the needle correctly.
Due to all the recent overdoses in the club at Babylon, there is a long line to get in with beefed up security inspecting everyone going in for drugs. Emmett and Ted call Brian on his hand in this because of his support for the Jim Stockwell campaign. Brian shows them his pass to cut through the line and takes only Michael with him.
As Justin and Ethan lay in bed, the phone rings and Ethan is talking to someone who wants him to fill an open position in a big concert. He tells Justin this is a big thing for his career and he must go, but has to leave him behind. Ethan gives Justin one of his rings which matches his to remind them of their commitment to each other.
At the diner, Deb warns Ted about Jim Stockwell's sting operation aimed at pornographers. He tells her not to worry as his business is clean and legal, but she tells him that doesn't matter, if they want to shut him down they will find something.
Michael confronts Ben about catching him using steroids. Ben assures Michael he was only experimenting with them for a short time and shows him the muscles he developed due to the use and how it seems to be worth the effort. Michael agrees to him using it temporarily.
Stockwell is working with Brian on a new commercial which shows him as a common man that everyone can relate to. Jim is convinced this will work, although he was unsure of the idea before Brian talked him into it.
Ted and Emmett do an inspection of his workplace to make sure everything is legal so there will be no surprises. Ted's assistant, Eddie, assures he checked through all things around the building and the workers' records and everything is okay. Ted feels safe and ready for anything.
Ethan has an interview at his apartment who is asking him all kinds of questions about how he feels about being a rising star and if he has a girlfriend. Ethan deflects the question and she takes that as he has a secret girlfriend. Justin and Daphne walk in and Ethan introduces them as his cousin and his cousin's girlfriend who happen to be at his place quite often. He asks them to come back another time. Daphne complains about the way they were treated and Justin explains that Ethan must pretend to be straight or he could ruin his future. Daphne blasts him for going back in the closet as he almost got killed coming out of the closet in the first place. Justin tells her to butt out.
Ted gives Emmett the go ahead to decorate the apartment in whatever way suits his fancy. They scoff at the ideas given to them by Lindsey and Melanie. There is someone at the door and Jennifer answers it. It is Sunny, a next door neighbor who seems very curious about the new neighbors. Jennifer introduces her to Ted Schmidt as the new home owner and she invites him over to a Welcome To The Block party and wanted to know if Mrs. Schmidt was home. Emmett approaches and tells her he is Mrs. Schmidt. She gives them a look and seems overly accepting of the situation and cheerfully welcomes them both.
Michael and Ben are at Deb's house. Deb loses her ring behind the refrigerator and is upset as that was a special ring she won. Michael and Vic both try to move the refrigerator and struggle, but Ben comes to the rescue and single-handedly moves it, gets the ring and puts it back. As Ben leaves the room, Vic and Deb can't help but notice Ben seems a bit bigger than usual and they figure out he was on steroids. Michael confirms it and Deb is worried as there are all kinds of dangers to doing it. Michael asks her to mind her own business as they both know the risks and he wasn't going to be on it for much longer.
Ted comes home and is surprised at Emmett's new look and his odd plans for the home which really seemed to look like he was trying to be straight. Emmett explained that when he was younger he always dreamed of living in a nice home and fitting in. Ted told him to just be himself as the neighbors will be what they are, if they didn't make fun of them to their face, they will do it behind their backs anyway.
At the gym, Brian catches Ben shooting up and confronts him. Ben tells him to mind his own business and pushes Brian up against a locker roughly causing him to get a deep cut.
Ethan and Justin talk about the interview and why it had to be done. Then they talk about his upcoming trip and how they wish they could be together, but at least they have the rings to show they are a couple, even if no one else can know it for now.
Michael goes to Brian's place and asks what was taking him so long. Brian shows Michael the gash on his back and Michael asks if one of his lovers did that to him. Brian says it was Ben who did it and then says Michael should watch his back. If he didn't care too much about sleeping with one eye open at night, that was Michael's business, but to keep Ben away from him.
Stockwell and his staff are happy about the poll results which show since Brian's commercials have been airing he has been getting a lot of approval.
Ted and Emmett go to the party and meet the neighbors who all seem a little "too" accepting of them. After all, they all seem to know someone who is gay and have been regular fans of "Gay As Blazes", so that must make them tolerant of Ted and Emmett. One neighbor is even related to a transvestite. So they bend over backwards to make sure they are welcomed.
Justin, wanting to surprise Ethan, attends the concert. He sees Ethan is being approached by a lot of people and stays back. Then he sees another guy talking to Ethan and whispering in his ear. Ethan looks around and goes off with the guy.
While at the party, cops come to the door looking for Ted. Sunny points him out and Ted talks to the police who announce in front of the neighbors that he is being arrested in connection to charges of hiring a minor in his pornographic web site. Ted argues that everyone there is legal and he has proof of everyone's age, but the cops say his assistant Eddie is only 17. As they drag him off, Emmett tries to politely excuse themselves and says this is just a big misunderstanding. The neighbors then cluck their tongues and talk about "those" kinds of people.
Ben is starting to feel the ill effects of steroid use and Michael asks him if he is okay. Ben gets hostile and then explains his fear of being positive which is what brought him to using, but Michael can never understand that fear and says he should leave him and find someone else who is positive who would understand.
Justin is sitting alone at the bar. Brian notices him and approaches asking where his boyfriend went. Justin tells him Ethan is out of town. Brian says at least he has that ring and leaves.
Ethan must hide the fact that he is gay in order to propel his career, but for him to have his cake and eat it, too, Justin must get back in the closet with Ethan and pretend to be cousins - to the objection of their friends. Ted and Em move into their new house and disagreements break out. Ben goes into a total steroid rage.
Season 3, Episode 7 - Ted goes in front of the judge with Melanie defending him. The judge has a harsh reputation and tells Ted that if he is indeed guilty he will be punished to the harshest extent of the law.
Ethan is excited about the concert and tells Justin that there have been plans for more. Justin tells him he saw him in concert and asks about the guy he went off with. Ethan assures him it was only a fan.
Deb reads the tabloids which talk about Ted as the Porn King. She goes to the bathroom where she thinks Vic is taking a shower and tells him about and is surprised when a stranger comes out from the shower stall. Vic comes in and introduces his new boyfriend, Rodney, who spent the night.
Brian sits in silence as Jim Stockwell and campaign team announce the success of the campaign and promises to clean up Liberty Avenue to win the election.
Michael is caught up in a daydream that he is making love to Ben and the condom breaks. Vic snaps him out of it and tells both Michael and Deb about his intentions with Rodney and has invited him to dinner to get to formally introduce them.
Ted is on the phone with his mother assuring her that there is nothing to worry about. He hangs up and tells Melanie that he is terrified about what will happen. She advises him to go to Brian and ask for help.
Justin and Michael are working on issue two of Rage where Rage is suffering from a Jekell/Hyde syndrome. Ben walks in and Michael asks him to go to Deb's house with him later for dinner. Ben says he has plans, but Michael says it's important. Ben goes off on Michael and storms out.
Melanie takes a pregnancy test hoping to be pregnant, but is disappointed the results are negative. Lindsey assures her that it doesn't mean it didn't work or that it is hopeless.
Ted approaches Brian and ask for his help. Brian tries to explain to Ted that he can't do anything to help him as it would interfere with his business, but not to worry as he is only a small fish anyway and it will blow over. Ted feels rejected and goes off feeling all is lost.
Justin prepares for his date with Ethan. Vic prepares for his date with Rodney.
Emmett goes to Brian after being informed that he turned down Ted's request for help. Emmett begs Brian's help, but Brian explains there isn't much he can do.
At Deb's house, Rodney, Vic, Michael and Deb sit down to eat. Rodney tell how he and Vic met at a Positive support group and how he dated people in the past who were not positive and how it never worked out because they could never relate to him. Rodney backed down when he found out Michael was not positive dating a positive man and said that didn't mean it would apply to him.
Brian is playing a game of racquetball with Jim and beats him. They go off to the steamroom and talk about the campaign and of Ted's arrest. Brian tries to get Stockwell to drop the attack on Ted as it would be seen as him being a bully to a little guy and it could hurt his campaign image, but instead to go after bigger fish.
Justin and Ethan are sitting down to a romantic evening until someone knocks on the door. It was the guy who went off with Ethan at the concert who has flowers for Ethan. Justin figures out that Ethan slept with him.
Ben comes home to a dimly lit place and sees Michael sitting alone in the dark and asks what he is doing. Michael tells him about Rodney who was positive and had a bad time those who weren't. Ben sees Michael playing around with one of his needles and warns him to be careful. Michael threatens to use it on himself to be just like him so that can't come in between them. Ben begs him not to do it. Mike says he won't if Ben promises to stay away from the steroids.
Justin and Ethan argue about the guy. Ethan claims it was only a one night stand and it wouldn't happen again, he only did it because he missed Justin so much. Justin said he could not forgive him for this. Ethan brings up how he could forgive Brian for sleeping with a lot of other people, but Justin points out the big difference - Brian was honest and didn't make a commitment to him and Ethan did.
Emmett is trying to comfort Ted who is worried about going to prison and losing everything. Melanie comes to the house to give them the news - if Ted pleas guilty to a lesser charge he won't have to go to jail, but he would have to shut down the site, lose his property and money made from the business and would be on probation.
Ben gets ready to go to Paul's memorial service and asks Michael to come along. Michael refuses as he really didn't think he belonged there. Ben apologizes for all he put him through and swears off steroids and assures him that he loves him and nothing will come between them.
Brian sees Justin who is a bit shabby looking and asks what's going on. He learns that Ethan and Justin had a falling out and he was living at Daphne's place. Ted approaches Brain and thanks him for his help figuring it was Brian who pulled the strings to get him off. Brian blows him off and denies having anything to do with it. Deb comments to Justin how she doesn't understand why Brian is like that when it is so obvious he helped Ted.
Melanie tries another pregnancy test. This time it is positive.
Ted and Emmett start closing the shop and taking inventory of everything. They talk about how this was such a great business and how Emmett was the star Fletch Dixon. Emmett asks Ted what would have been his porn name and it would have been Millicent Kensington [in case you missed the formula - the name of your first pet and the street you grew up on.] Ted is upset over everything they have lost, especially the house which is what he wanted more for Emmett. Emmett assures him all will be fine as they have each other.
Brian and Michael smoke cigars to celebrate the announcement that he is going to be a father. Michael worries if he will be a good father and Brian assures him he will be fine.
At the back rooms, Brian goes cruising and spots Justin in action with another guy and smiles knowing Justin is back on the scene.
Season 3, Episode 8 - Ben and Michael are awakened to the sounds of hustlers peddling themselves outside their building and complain that it was a result of the campaign to rid Liberty Avenue of it's traffic which has relocated on their block. Ben goes outside to confront them and sees a really young kid who is selling himself with the promise that he will do it without a condom.
Daphne talks to Justin who had a dream and he tells her how bad he feels about losing someone special in his life. She assumes he is talking about losing Ethan and says that is understandable as they just broke up, but is shocked when he tells her he was thinking about Brian and how he never got over him. She tells him about how she made a fool over a guy before by trying to get his attention by being everywhere he was. That gave Justin the idea to do the same thing.
Lindsey is happy with her new job at the gallery and is given carte blanche to run things the way she sees it after impressing the owner by selling an expensive painting to a patron who never bought anything before. She is told about an important event coming up and asks her to handle it.
At the diner Ted develops a pain in his back and can barely move. Deb asks if he will be okay and talks about how someone she knew had the same problem and was laid up in pain for a long time. Ted goes for help.
Brian goes to the office and is introduced to Vanguard's newest intern, Justin. Justin introduces himself to Mr. Kinney.
Emmett and Ted are at the diner and Emmett is trying to get Ted to take his pain pills, but refuses it. Emmett orders ice cream to try to sneak in a pill, but Ted overhears him. Ted doubles over in pain and agrees to take it.
Ben and Michael discover the kid who was hustling on the stairs of their apartment and ask him to leave. Ben stops him and asks if he had anything to eat and invites him to the diner for a bite. At the diner Deb tries to find out more about the kid whose name is Hunter. They discover his mother is in jail for killing his father and has been bounced in between many foster homes which were abusive to him which is why he is on the streets.
Brian pulls Justin aside to see what he is really doing there. Justin says it is only to further his career which Brian happens to be paying for and he is only following Brian's example of doing whatever it takes to be the best. Brian doesn't buy that excuse, but tells him he will not be getting any special favors.
Lindsay has a run in with a rude caterer who refuses to listen to her suggestions for a new theme unlike those boring, tired ideas which have always been done. The caterer scoffs and acts as if Lindsay has no say. Lindsay surprises her and fires her on the spot. In a pinch for someone to do her party, Melanie thinks of Emmett who is in need of money after the Ted fiasco. Lindsay asks him to do her party and he agrees.
Brian wonders what happened to his staff while Justin is alone in the room. Justin ask if there was anything he could do. Brian tells him what he needs from the staff in the way of important changes to the account and asks Justin to write it down. Justin surprises him and spits it back out at him exactly what he said. Justin also says how he likes working there and credits Brian with being a good leader as everyone respects him.
Lindsay and Emmett are in the gallery trying to get everything ready, but things look a bit disorganized as her boss comments that things better go off as planned. Lindsay and Emmett panic for a moment and think of how much easier it would be to have things the way they were, but then they regain perspective and know they have to move forward.
Brian is meeting with an important client and Justin is supposed to help with the media presentation, but is a bit clumsy. The client likes a lot of the ideas, but seems to think that something doesn't quite look right with the coloring on one of the pieces. Brian assures her it is perfect and tests show that is a great color. Justin then mumbles something about the color orange. She asks what he said and he tells her in art school they were taught that orange is the hottest color to use in this kind of instance and she agrees and wants orange in the campaign.
Ben approaches Hunter on the street who is being bullied by other guys who are beating on him. He breaks up the fight and asks him to come inside and offers him a place to sleep for the night. Hunter assumes he is there for sex with both of them, but they assure him they just want him to sleep for the night and rest.
The gallery event is a success and Lindsay and Emmett are happy, but Melanie and Ted seem a bit uncomfortable at the reversal of their roles. Emmett is even approached with more offers for work.
Brian chews out Justin for backstabbing him in front of the client and wants to fire him. Then Justin brings up that Brian was looking for any reason to fire him as he was never comfortable about him working there. He also brings up how he still has feelings for him and admits to being there to try and get back into his life. Brian says that wouldn't work as he is not the boyfriend type like Ethan. Justin goes off upset and Brian chews him out for not having balls to go after what he really wants. Justin kisses him and leaves.
Ted seems to be taking pills a lot lately and mixing them with alcohol. He is pretty depressed, but claims all is well.
Hunter wakes up and is upset he slept so late as he is losing money with the afternoon crowd. Ben gives Hunter some money and his phone number to call him in case of an emergency. Michael is upset and thinks he is doing way too much for that hustler.
Justin goes to Brian's office to talk to him about what he really wants and how he intends to go after it. He finally understands what Brian wants and is okay with it. Brian says things will have to be different, but he can start things over again. Justin locks the door and Justin and Brian are an item again.
Season 3, Episode 9 - At Babylon, the gang comment on the miracle of this reunification of Justin and Brian. Ted's back is still bothering him and Emmett borrows Ben to dance with. Michael and Ted go off to get a drink. Ted moans about being out of work and Michael assures him everything will be okay.
Justin and Brian head for the back rooms and Justin cautions him about all the stings lately. Brian says that makes it even more exciting.
Brian begins shooting a new commercial for Stockwell showing Jim as the family man. As they wrap it up, Jim's family runs off doing their things and Jim asks Brian to join him in the hot tub. Brian tells him he doesn't have the swim wear to join him, but Jim says its okay as it's only the two guys they could go nude.
Michael arranges an interview for Ted with Tracy who is the new manager at the Q-Mart. Tracy is happy to meet Ted, but cautions him that he is a bit over-qualified for the job and the pay isn't much and he would only be an assistant bookkeeper. Ted says he doesn't mind as he just wants to work.
Melanie begins to dole out her assignments to her co-workers as she agreed with Lindsay to lighten her workload for the sake of the baby. She discovers from her partner that a case she had been working on for three years was about to go to trial. He agreed to take it over, but she argues that she wants to do it as it is very important to her. He tells her this is the kind of case that will take a lot of time and if she is only working part time she can't do it.
Brain and Jim are talking in the hot tub. Jim admits to Brian he is scared of winning. He has only been a cop and is afraid of being in charge of an entire city and letting people down. Brian tells him even he gets scared sometimes and Jim will do fine.
At the diner, Carl sits down for a fish meal. On the other side of the diner, Ted tells Emmett how well the interview went and that it had to go through the district manager, but he was certain he would get it. Deb approaches their table and ask them about showing up at the "Tease For Teens" benefit to help suicidal teens and how Kiki, the new waitress who was formerly Kenny, was the emcee. Kiki comes out moaning and admits to eating the fish. Deb rushes over to Carl before he can eat the fish and offers him a burger instead. Kiki asks Deb to take her place and she isn't sure she could do it, but Emmett and Ted say she will be great as she has such a big mouth. Carl says she loves Deb's big mouth and Deb agrees to do it.
Justin shows Michael his idea for the next cover of Rage and Michael says they can't use it because it is pornographic and that could shut them down. Justin defends the artwork and says the publicity would make the issue a best seller. Michael accuses Justin of being around Brian too long. Justin says the art is not about sex for sex's sake [J.T. is giving Rage head] but is symbolic of J.T. warming Rage's icy heart and to bring him back to life with their unspoken love and commitment. Michael comments about this being art imitating life as in Justin and Brian returning as a couple.
Melanie tells Lindsay about the case she is so excited to take on and how important it is. The woman they are defending is a lesbian mother trying to get custody of her three children from her drunken, abusive ex-husband who has full custody. Lindsay isn't happy about it as they agreed she would lighten her workload. Melanie promises she will be able to handle it, after all, this big case is about helping people like themselves. All Melanie asks is one little favor of Lindsay, to drop Gus off in the morning, but promises she will be there to pick him up. Lindsay agrees, but isn't happy about it.
At the benefit, Brian offers a guy $100 to expose himself on the stage. Michael shows disgust at the blatant sex and discusses the cover of Justin with Ben who asks when he became such a prude. Justin shows a slip of tongue and Ben realizes it is about him and Brian and not about the art itself. Ted approaches Michael and asks if he heard about the job at the Q-Mart. Michael tries to brush him off and say this isn't the time to discuss it. Ted pushes the issue and Michael tells him the job was going to someone else more qualified for the job. Matthew goes onto the stage and as instructed by Brian does his act and exposes himself. The cops then rush the place and shut it down for lewd conduct. One of the cops spot Brian, but doesn't approach him.
There is a crisis at the office and Melanie is forced to stay or give up the case to her partner. She calls Lindsay and asks her to pick up Gus.
Deb organizes a protest and lashes out at Brian who is there for lunch. Michael sticks up for Brian while Ben agrees with Deb and says Brian is destroying the lifestyle that even Brian enjoys. Michael walks out with Brian to his car and tells him privately he thinks he is wrong. Brian explains to him that this campaign is his ticket out of town and he can leave all this behind him. Michael is upset and tells him not to forget to bring Justin with him. Brian tells him he interrupted him and he was going to say the only one he could never forget was Michael and he loves him.
Emmett and Vic are going over the menu for an upcoming party which would include enough to give one a heart attack [lots of Southern fried cooking.] Ted staggers out of his room and is still depressed about being out of work. Emmett says he needs a bartender for the event and Ted offers his services as he supported himself through school while bartending and even did it for the AA meetings [Accountant Association.]
At the protest rally in front of the police station and is blabbing in front of the news cameras comparing Stockwell to a Nazi. Carl is getting comments from his fellow officers about Deb and he is feeling uncomfortable. Deb spots Carl and yells at him in front of the other officers for not telling him about the raid.
Lindsay and Melanie argue about Lindsay having to pick up Gus. Melanie says this is a landmark case for all lesbian motherhood and she should understand. Lindsay says this is not about that, but how they had an agreement and she broke it and how Melanie acts as if her career is more important than hers. Melanie says she cannot possibly be the kind of mother Lindsay is and can't be there 24/7, but Lindsay protests and says she is not asking for that, but to share the responsibility. Melanie suggests they get a nanny or a part time sitter. Lindsay reminds her that she was raised by a nanny and does not want Gus to go through that. Melanie says they must do something and straight couples do it all the time. Lindsay says that as lesbians, they have to be better and she thinks her client would agree to that, but if Melanie doesn't see that, then she is the poor role model for lesbian motherhood.
Ted is feeling happy about the opportunity to work until he meets a rival from his past who treats him like dirt as he asks for an extra dirty martini [Extra Dirty Martini - 3 Parts Vodka, 1 Part Olive Juice 1 Part Extra Dry Vermouth]. He notices Ted and comments about how he heard about the scandal and asks what he has been doing lately. Ted didn't want to admit to being unemployed, but he noticed Ted seemed nervous and then commented that the martini wasn't dirty enough and of all people he should know dirty. Ted fixes up the drink and then the guy leaves and his friend asks who he was talking to. He says nobody, as Ted felt humiliated.
Brian shows up at Jim's office to show him the latest commercial, but Jim stops him and says he has something important to discuss. Jim informs Brian that his committee advised him that Brian's services were no longer needed. Brian called him on the real reason he was being fired, because one of his officers spotted him at Woody's and they know he's gay. Jim asked why he didn't tell him. Brian says that was none of his business, but Jim differed and said anything that could blow his campaign was his business.
Deb and Vic are walking along as Deb proclaims her diet is over. Vic knows what's up and sees she is upset over the fight she had with Carl. Deb wondered when Vic cared so much about cops and Vic says ever since his sister fell for one.
Brian talks to Michael about the raid at Woody's and how it was just a political game that Deb took too seriously. He also mentions he was fired by Stockwell. Michael wanted to brag to his mother about the events, but when he approached her with the news, she was depressed and drinking shots. Then she appears on the news and everyone cheers her comments. Deb taunts Brian about what his buddy Jim must think now.
At Jim's office, Brian and Jim look at the clips of Deb on the news and discuss how to deal with Deb's big mouth. Brian is re-hired to smooth over his campaign which has been tarnished.
Deb goes to the station to make up with Carl. Carl ushers her to his office to hear her out. Deb then talks loudly about what she really thinks of Stockwell and Carl closes the door so people won't hear. Carl asks her to keep her big mouth closed as it is getting him in trouble. She said she thought he liked her big mouth, but he says not like that. Deb shoots off her mouth that she has the right to say what is on her mind. Carl shoots back that he also has rights and walks out on her.
Emmett has the gang over his place to test some foods he was going to use for an upcoming party and everyone is waiting on Ted who was supposed to bring the wine. Ted shows up completely drunk and makes a fool of himself. Emmett tries to get Ted to eat something to balance out the alcohol, but Ted pushes Emmett. Ted realizes what he did and apologizes and Emmett excuses themselves as he ushers Ted to bed.
Stockwell has a press conference and disputes the claims that he is homophobic. He claims he is not out after gay people, but to clean up the streets from illegal activities to make it safe. He points to the fact that the person handling his campaign happens to be gay.
Justin and Brian are making love next to the new issue of Rage featuring Justin's cover. As they finish up, there is a knock at the door and Brian goes to get it. Brian's date comes in and sees Justin and asks who that is. Brian says, "He's the one I f--k more than once." and Justin chimes in, "Unlike you."
Season 3, Episode 10 - Justin and Brian are disappointed as they roam up and down Liberty Avenue to discover all their hangouts have been closed by Stockwell. When trying to settle down in a spot down a dark alley, a cop flashes his lights at them to give them a hard time and asks them to move along. They find another dark spot. After Justin pleasures Brian, he spits on the poster of Stockwell against the wall.
At the gym, Emmett and Michael are discussing about Stockwell's clean up campaign when they see Ted at the door being denied access to the gym. Ted complains loudly and Emmett rushes to his defense to see what's happening. Ted's check bounced and Emmett offers to let him use his guest pass, but Ted declines.
Michael and Lindsay and Melanie are at the doctor's office with for a pre-natal check up. Everything seems okay, but Melanie is warned to take it easy.
At the diner, Michael is talking about the doctor's visit and says he is so worried about the life of his child. Ben gets paged and excuses himself as he gets word that his nephew, Hunter, was admitted to the hospital. Deb overhears Michael running at the mouth thinking he is just being an overly anxious father-to-be, but he tells her about Melanie's problems which could complicate things and Debbie worries.
Ted is on the web surfing through porn sites. He then receives an invitation to a circuit party. He scoffs at it. Emmett talks about them getting away for a vacation, but then the phone rings wanting Emmett to tend to details for a party which meant he would have to cancel his plans to go, but says that Ted should go anyway. He convinces Ted that he needs to get away to clear his mind to make him feel better.
Ben goes to the hospital to see what's up with Hunter. Hunter has a kidney infection and after laying around on the street for hours someone finally brought him to the hospital. He begs Ben not to squeal that he really wasn't his uncle or he would be put back into foster care. Ben disagrees and thinks that would be the best thing for him. Hunter yells at him and questions why he bothered to give him his phone number if he really didn't want to help.
At Babylon's Brain wants to have some fun with Justin, but he excuses himself to do an important project.
Melanie is alone at the grocery parking lot and hears someone coming at her. She worries someone is stalking her and goes for her purse to get the pepper spray, but Michael tells her it's only him. Michael offers to help her with her groceries and talks about seeing her movements in the store. Melanie is offended that he is spying on her and asks him to stop, but he insists on helping her home. When they get there, they tell Lindsay what happened and Melanie demands Michael stops stalking her. Lindsay gets Michael to agree to say yes.
Deb, Lindsay, Emmett, Brian and Justin are looking at the new and improved Stockwell posters which some unknown person defaced to make him appear as Hitler. They ask Justin what he thinks of them and he nonchalantly approves of the crude artwork which makes the point clear. Brian eyes Justin with suspicion.
At home, Michael and Ben are alone for a quiet evening when the phone rings and Michael picks it up saying it's the hospital wanting to speak to Ben. Ben talks and Michael is worried about the call and asks Ben if everything is okay. Ben tells him it was about Hunter and he was paying the hospital bill. Michael is upset and tells Ben that Hunter is not their problem.
Ted drives alone to the country club after being called by Emmett who asks him to call when he gets there. While driving, Ted comes to a light and sees the Paradise Motel where he remembered from the e-mail invitation. The light turns green as he stays still, debating what to do. He finally drives and goes into the Paradise Motel.
Jim Stockwell goes to Brian's office where he and Justin are doing some work. Stockwell is upset over the smear campaign where someone has depicted him as Hitler and now everyone is calling him names. Brain laughs and suggests Jim laugh at himself as well or his enemies will eat him up in the polls. He suggests he even brings it up in his next conferences before anyone else does to take the pressure off of him and to explain he has a sense of humor and is for the rights of dissidents who want to speak their minds.
Ted goes to his room and looks around the room. He leaves his room and runs into some of the party scenes on his floor then gets to a snack machine where he meets Mark who invites him to his room. Ted declines, but Mark insists the invitation is open.
At the hospital, Hunter is in bed laughing at Judge Judy. Ben comes to the room to give Hunter a talk about using this opportunity to turn his life around. Hunter laughs at the idea and Ben threatens to give up and tell the truth to the doctors so he can get the help he needs. As he leaves the room, the doctor wants to talk to him about Hunter.
Melanie is walking alone in an office building and groans in pain and doubles over when Michael comes out of nowhere and asks if she's okay. Melanie scolds Michael for following her, then she nearly passes out from the pain.
Justin is at the office late and Brian catches him with anti-Stockwell posters. Brian orders Justin to stop, but Justin defends his position and says Brian would have done the same thing and can't understand why he is helping Stockwell. Brian tells him he doesn't really care about Stockwell, but this is his business and asks Justin to stop because he is messing with his business by doing this.
Ted is talking to Emmett and lied about being at the club. Then he goes to explore the party scene at Mark's room where he is offered drugs to get in the party mood and is groped by the men as he starts tripping.
Melanie is at the hospitla and they find out she only has some spotting, but came just in time and all is okay. Michael leaves the room and runs into Ben who is in the waiting room and asks if Ben is okay. Ben tells him that Hunter has HIV and he has to figure out a way to tell him.
Ted comes home and surprises Emmett who wasn't expecting him and questions why Ted doesn't look so rested. Ted says it was just too quiet and he couldn't sleep so he came home early and Emmett promises him next time they will go together and make a lot of noise.
Ben is lying in bed with Michael trying to think of a way to tell Hunter the bad news.
Jim is happy about Brian's suggestions which got him the approval and endorsement from the Gay and Lesbian Center and 3 other gay organizations.
Melanie and Lindsay come home to Gus and Deb who is babysitting. Deb lectures Melanie about taking care of herself. Melanie tells her she will and Deb leaves. Then Lindsay gets on her case trying to stress how important it is and how this is not just about Melanie, but their family. Melanie promises to slow down.
Ben and Michael go to the hospital to tell Hunter the news, but find out he checked out at 4 in the morning.
At Babylon's, Brian discovers the back rooms are locked. Brian leaves and finds Justin with a new crop of posters. Brian helps him put them up.
Season 3, Episode 11 - At a truck loading dock, Jusin and Brian are looking for action as everything of Liberty Avenue has been shut down. It's one of the coldest nights in Pittsburg and they complain the inside of an empty freight car is the only place they can find to have some fun. Justin reminds Brian it's part his fault for helping Jim's campaign.
Ben and Mike are at the diner resting after spending half the night looking for Hunter to tell him the bad news. Deb lectures Ben for helping Hunter too much then tells them he heard the hustlers were hanging out by the warehouse district.
Emmett and Ted are at Lindsay's and Melanie's house for breakfast while Ted is still depressed. Emmett talks aobut how business is so good he finally gave his notice at Torso's. Lindsay tries to make small talk with Ted while trying to broach the subject of having Ted manage Gus' financial portfolio of $5000. He agrees and tells them a general plan and everyone tells them how impressed they are at what a financial whiz he is. Ted seems less than enthusiastic about the chore.
At the office, Brian suggests Jim gets to all the minority groups and suggest the Gay and Lesbian Center which endorsed him and since all the polls are tight it would not be wise to avoid it. The other campaign managers joke how funny it would be if it were the gay people who were the lock in to get him into office.
Ted and Emmett walk down the street talking about the offer. Ted realizes the breakfast was a set up. They run into Dr Mark who is with Derek and Roman. Ted introduces them to Emmett. Mark invites them to his place to f--k. Ted politely turns them down and they walk away. Emmett asks how does he know him. Ted said Mark was his ear/nose/throat doctor he used to have his sinus drained. Ted looks back at Mark and friends while Mark smiles back.
At the Gay and Lesbian Center, Stockwell is defending charges made by people who complained it takes so long for police to respond to the needs in the gay community. Justin then leads the protest citing facts and faces of victims of hate crimes which have gone unsolved or under-punished. Deb then held up a picture of the boy she pulled out of the dumpster and challenged Jim to say what his name was, but he couldn't come up with the name, Jason Kemp, which proved that not only did he not care, but he left the police work to a waitress who happened to find his body. They quickly wrap up the session as the crowd boos him out. On his way out the door, Jim's eyes meet up with Justin. He recognizes him, but doesn't say anything.
Ben and Mike search for Hunter on one of the coldest nights of the year. Mike comments Hunter is probably nice and warm at some client's home sipping up lobster bisque. Then they see Hunter trying to solicit a client. Ben calls out to Hunter and the car pulls away. Hunter is angry because every time they show up it costs him money. They tell him he has HIV, but he doesn't seem to care, after all, almost everyone on the street has it. Michael asks if he even cares about passing it on to his customers. Hunter says in a flippant way that's the chance they take.
Ted is balancing a spreadsheet while Vic and Emmett talk about getting a professional oven for better quality pastries. As Emmett offers Ted a cheese puff, Dr Crystal sends him an Instant Message.
- Mark: Party at my place where you can meet "Tina" [crystal]
- Ted: Sorry, no can do.
- Mark: If you change your mind, we'll be waiting for you.
Ted suggests to Emmett and Vic that they go out, but Vic has a date with Rodney and Emmett has too much to do, but encourages Ted to get out and have some fun.
Deb, Justin, Melanie, Lindsay, Daphne, and Jennifer celebrate at Woody's for a victory in disrupting Stockwell's campaign at the Gay and Lesbian Center. They praise Justin for such great research details, but Justin tells them he had his "deep throat" helping him. Deb walks by Brian who is playing pool and notices how he doesn't look to upset by what happened to his friend. She also notes that this stunts seems like something he would have done in the days before he sold his soul. Mike comes in and Deb gets on his case about not showing up at the meeting, but he explains they found Hunter who not only didn't care, but was not grateful for them telling him. Deb isn't too surprised because at his age he doesn't realize he is not invincible. Brian isn't surprised because he is a hustler. Michael comments to Brian how lucky they are that even though they have screwed up parents at least they didn't throw them away.
Ben sees Hunter on the street. As Hunter sneezes, Ben gives him a tissue and condoms and a coat. Hunter complains and wants Ben to go away. Before Ben leaves, Hunter says he doesn't understand why he is doing all this and why would he care. Ben tells him he is also positive and wants to help.
Ted goes to the party and gets tweaked out on crystal. He is told about the white party weekend in Palm Springs with hot music, drugs and guys which will only cost a few thousand dollars. Ted is tempted into it by Mark who claims to get a good deal from his travel agent who he supplies.
Ben fixes Hunter some miso soup [Japanese chicken soup]. Hunter asks Ben how long Ben was positive and Ben tells him he was diagnosed about three years ago and has been mostly healthy since. Hunter doesn't understand what the big deal is, but Ben tells him staying healthy is harder than it looks and then living with the social stigma. Hunter doesn't want to talk about it anymore. Michael comes home from Woody's and sees Hunter. Ben explains he offered Hunter something to eat and a place to crash. Michael tells him that was a loving thing to do, but as soon as they go to bed he tells Ben he can't believe he is doing this. Ben laughs at Michael's maternal complaining then tells him he's just helping a person he's related to by blood.
At the loft, Justin shows Brian the new anti-Stockwell poster. Brian asks where should they hang them. Justin thinks City Hall, police headquarters, up Stockwell's rear. Justin muses how the last poster sent Jim around the bend, imagine what this will do. Brian kisses him with approval asking, "How did you get to be such a clever devil?" Justin replies, "Learned from the master."
Stocwell speaks in private with Mr Gardner about his suspicions that Brian is working a smear campaign behind his back. Gardner disagrees and defends Brian, after all, getting the campaign was his idea and he has put so much work and effort into the project why would he sabotage this project and the reputation of the firm. Jim insists he knew something was up when he spotted their intern at the Gay and Lesbian Center who was leading the protest and recognized him.
Justin and Brian are having fun at the loft, unaware what is going on at Vangaurd.
Gardner admits Justin is an intern in the art department. Jim also mentions he's seen them both together there at night. Gardner doesn't think Brian would still do it, but Jim says he would, "because he's a fag." Stockwell wants Brian removed immediately, but Gardner says this puts them in a spot as Jim praised Brian in public as his gay campaign manager.
Justin and Brian are in the heat of the moment when someone is pounding at the door. Brian opens the door while standing naked as Jim barges in and Gardner watches in disbelief. There are anti-Stockwell posters all over the place. Jim crumples up a poster then storms out. Brian asks Justin if they should finish off where they left off.
Ben and Michael wait for Huner to wake up to find out his plans. They ask if he's planning to go to school. Hunter laughs then discovers that Ben is not only a teacher, but a health nut. Ben invites him over again, but he has to be in by midnight. Mike follows Hunter out to the hallway for a chat. Hunter asks if he wants to have sex with him, but Michael says he is only trying to make sure he doesn't hurt Ben and if he doesn't plan on coming back again to just say so. Hunter says he never asked for his help, so he can keep i.
At the office, Brian is being chewed out by Gardner and asks why would he do such a thing. Brian tells him he wouldn't understand because he's straight. Gardner regrets it, but has to fire him.
At the diner, Emmett is on the phone with Michael looking for Ted as Ted said he was going to Wood's for a drink with him and Ben and that Ted didn't come home and hasn't called. Melanie, Lindsay and Gus come up to Emmett and they ask about Ted. Melanie mentions Gus' money is gone. Emmett says Ted must have found a great fund and says he'll have Ted call them when he gets back.
At the loft, Brian is rolling a fattie as Deb stops by with a tuna cassarole. She heard he lost his job. Brian tells how he was escorted off the property by security guards. Deb wished she could have seen that. Brian thinks so she could tell him he had it coming. Deb says what they did was ceceitful, treacherous and she has never been so proud of them. Brian gets Deb to smoke with hm. Deb admits Brian scared her as she thought he sold his soul for money and power, but his inate goodness brought him back [while getting progressively stoned and slurring.] She suggest he lays off the bad boy routine because it isn't true. And she has the munchies.
Ben and Mike wait up late for Hunter and are about ready to give up on him. Ben is disappointed thinking he almost got through to the kid.
Justin and Brian talk about his jobless options, but Brian wants to find a place to f--k, but Justin reminds him Babylon's backroom is closed so they could always imitate married straight couples [make meatloaf, look at photos when they took the kids to Disney World and do it at home]. They go to Babylon and Brian breaks the lock and announces the backroom is now open.
Emmett looks for Ted at Babylon and finds one of Ted's new friends. He asks if he knows where Ted is. Ted's friend tells them his is in Palm Springs tweaking at the circuit party. Emmett decides to go home.
As Ben and Michael are about to go to be, they hear a knock at the door. Hunter came within 30 seconds of his curfew.
Season 3, Episode 12 -
Season 3, Episode 13 -
Season 3, Episode 14 -
