I think I'm one who is 'squicked' for numerous reasons: I totally understand references like 'the kid' or 'that kid' if Brian were referring to Justin... but the 'MY kid' is completely different, a bit jolting. But in thinking about the timeframes... when Justin is near death in the hospital- that's a time when Brian's paternal instincts do kick in - in the sense that Justin was only 17 initially, then 19 when he nearly died in this fic. While technically coming into young adulthood, he's still a teenager and doesn't have the life experience Brian does. Brian was always aware that he was taking this 'kid' on a journey into his adulthood, ya know? In the episode where Lindsey and Brian are putting the swingset together for Gus, Lindsey says something about Brian having a child, referring to Gus. Brian responds, "2" meaning Gus AND Justin. I don't remember the exact words. But then there's this whole BDSM thing that I have been reluctant to approach. The usage of 'boy' 'good boy' 'bad boy' is something that, psychologically, screams dysfunction (Psychology is my area.) But I haven't discussed the usage with BDSM people or done any research to find out what, if any, 'healthy' result there may be for either party involved. I've read some of the fic and have some ideas both negative and positive. My point... I don't know why this author was using the particular terminology she chose. But, there could be a multitude of reasons having to do with feelings of parental responsibilty, simple age differences, cultural influence in word usage, or even allusion to BDSM. Regardless, from where I stand, my initial response is -- red flag-- and the hair stands on the back of my neck... or 'squick.' But, I will look into the subject more out of sheer psychological intrigue, especially since reading Plumsuede and TriciaQaf fic. I had some friends who 'dabbled' in the past, and some aquaintences who were fairly hardcore, but I never really approached the subject back then. Sorry for rambling, but yeah, it got my attention too :) ...libra2 (at LJ)