Before, there were several things that Julian was not: peaceful, lazy, easygoing, content.

Now, he is all of those things and more.

Before, Julian worked on weekends - at the Court, at home, in the University Law Library.

Now, he readily puts files aside and ignores the heavy books that once built his fortress.

Before, his skin buzzed, his brain whirled, and he moved from one task to another, trailing perfection in his wake.

Now, he's peaceful. Watching Emmett cook, or drying the dishes while Emmett washes them, or getting distracted from organizing his closet by Emmett throwing shoes at him.

Before, he was restless, never slowing down, careful to never give a rival an opening. On Sunday, he worked his way through six newspapers and took notes on pertinent issues; he flipped channels between the political shows, trying not to miss anything.

Now, he's lazy. Sunday mornings mean coffee and slow, gentle sex in bed; toe fighting on the couch with the TV ignored in front of them, or sleeping late wrapped in each others' arms.

Before, he was ruthless. He kept a schedule and never deviated. He didn't know most of his colleagues' names, unless they could do something for him. He kept to himself; he ran his world with an iron fist.

Now, he's easygoing. He just smiles when plans change at the last minute. He's nice to his secretary. He invites people over, plays basketball a couple of times a week. He follows Emmett's lead, except when he doesn't - turning the tables just to see Emmett's eyes widen and start to sparkle.

Before, he was driven. The next thing over the hill was one more step up, a climb up a never-ending mountain.

Now, he's content. He never knew what that word meant.

Before, it was all about him.

Now, it's all about them.