InsaneJournal

Graphic Number 1: "Inspiration"
Title: Inspiration
Author: testdog65
Timeline: Post-513
Rating: G
Author's notes: This is a triple drabble that insisted on being written after seeing the beautiful graphic that inspired it. Thank you to xie_xie_xie for the beta!
Graphic: #1 by qafmaniac




Justin watched as the brush stroked another wet smear onto the canvas, bright blue blending against white, leaving a muted edge of reflection and shape.

Sometimes when he painted, his head was so full of the image that he thought he might shatter from the inside out before he was able to complete the transfer to canvas.

But other times, like now, the piece was only a half formed shadow of light and dark, color and form. It was there in the swirl of tint and texture, and Justin was content to let it reveal itself in its own time.

*****

Brian's key stuck stubbornly before the ancient tumblers finally released, clicking into place. He pushed the door open and tried not to mutter too loudly about pretentious artists, old buildings, and misguided sacrifice.

"One of these days, I'm going to refuse to…" But he let the words trail off when he realized the space was empty. He set down his suitcase and made his way over to the easel that dominated the room. The paint hadn't completely dried, and it caught the light in glittering patches.

Brian was still studying the canvas when the studio door opened with a scrape.

*****

"You're early," Justin said as he closed the creaky old door and walked across the room. Brian didn't look up.

"Well?" Justin's voice was a mixture of curiosity, impatience, and confidence.

"You don't need me to tell you…"

"…that it's good. I know. It is."

"I'm glad to see that New York has been so inspiring."

Justin laughed as he wrapped his arms securely around Brian and kissed him. "Look at it again. Do you really think my inspiration came from a geographic location?"

Brian responded by returning the kiss before resting his forehead against Justin's and closing his eyes.