Queer As Folk

While Ethan plays his violin on the street, Brian passes by, dropping $100 into the struggling artist's open instrument case. They strike up a conversation, and Ethan follows Brian to the diner to learn more about moneymaking alternatives to fiddling on street corners. Justin walks in just as Brian presents his business card. Only then does Ethan realize with whom he's been chatting. Ethan quickly escapes from the awkward situation.

Brian spends a lot of money to publicize the release of Michael and Justin's comic book, arranging interviews with leading gay journalists, purchasing advertising in gay-oriented periodicals and organizing a lavish party at Babylon. On the day of the party, Justin arrives at Michael's comic book store for the first of many interviews. Justin and Michael argue, and Michael reveals that it is he who told Brian about Ethan. Furious, Justin flees the store just as the journalists arrive. At the party, Justin and Michael do not speak to each other, but Brian urges Justin to resolve the problem for the sake of the comic book venture. Ethan appears at Babylon, and, to the amazement of all, he and Justin kiss lustily. Justin takes a last look at Brian before leaving with Ethan.

Ben wants to go to Tibet to study with Buddhist monks for six months, but only if Michael approves. A conversation with Debbie changes Ben's mind, and Ben decides to stay in Pittsburgh. Over dinner, Emmett confronts Ted about the latter's strange behavior recently. Ted confesses that he's in love with Emmett, who is too flabbergasted to respond. The following morning, Emmett stops by Ted's apartment to tell Ted that his feelings are not mutual. But later, at the Babylon party, Emmett and Ted kiss passionately.