Chapter 34: In too Deep
Kendall yawned as he tossed his phone onto his desk. This was the part of tour planning he didn't like. He was booking the venues and hotels. He had to make sure everything was all taken care of for the boys. The tour was getting closer and closer. The boys were getting excited. Kyle and Avery were working their butts off too. Everything was falling into place. He was getting excited about the tour as well. Everyone involved had worked hard on the music and the show.
A knock at the door caught his attention. He looked up as Penelope walked into the office. She was a little slower than usual, but she was seven months pregnant and showing. She set more files on his desk. She set a cup of coffee down as well. He thanked her as he took the cup.
"Here are the contracts all signed and ready to go. The guys are all eager to get on the road. Avery's mom-ager wanted Avery to demand more but Avery finally told her to chill. Thankfully she will not be joining us on tour as she has a real job too," Penelope said.
"Thank god, I love that she's taking an active role and trying to help Avery, but she's being a bit unreasonable," Kendall said.
"How are the venues looking?" Penelope asked, as she sat down across from him.
"Good, we've got most of the places we wanted. There were just two places that we needed to change," Kendall said looking at his computer.
"Awesome, have Kyle and Avery figure out their schedules," Penelope asked.
"Mostly," Kendall chuckled.
"Ok one last question," Penelope said.
"What?" Kendall asked confused.
"Have you seen Kyle yet?" Penelope asked, with a grin.
"No why?" Kendall asked.
"Excellent, he's in the studio with the guys. You better hurry before they make him leave," Penelope said with a grin.
"What?" Kendall asked confused.
"I don't want to spoil the surprise," Penelope replied shaking her head.
"What's wrong?" Kendall asked, confused.
"You have to see it for yourself," Penelope said.
Kendall moved around his desk and offered her a hand. She thanked him and then led him to the rehearsal studio. He entered the studio and saw the guys and Kyle all sitting on the floor. Kyle had his back to Kendall while the guys faced him. The guys were all laughing and hadn't noticed Kendall or Penelope yet.
"This doesn't look like a rehearsal to me," Kendall said, getting their attention. Kyle jumped the hardest as he hadn't seen Kendall.
"Hey Kendall, I'm glad you're here," Jared said smirking up at the older blonde. He turned his attention to Kyle, who was now hanging his head. "Go ahead, show him."
"I asked for one thing. To give me a warning when he was here, Miles would never betray me like this," Kyle said, lifting his gaze to Jared.
"Well, I'm not Miles, I'm Jared, now turn around," Jared said grinning.
"He's gonna find out sooner or later," Noah said.
"You can't hide forever," Roldy added laughing.
"Stop being such a baby, it's not even that bad," Matt said.
"Yes it is," Kyle said, hanging his head.
"Come on," Jared said, jumping up. Matt followed suit. The two pulled him to his feet and turned him to face Kendall.
Kyle smiled at him from behind a pair to thin black plastic glasses. Kendall tilted his head confused. Was this a new phase?
"Why are you wearing glasses?" Kendall asked, still confused.
"Because apparently, someone with 20/20 vision should be able to see the fourth line from twenty feet away," Kyle said with a shrug, "I could not and once I went to the eye appointment and he put the lenses on I could actually see and that was when my denial died, mostly."
"He's still a little in denial," Jared said pinching his fingers together.
"Are they really that bad?" Kyle asked self-consciously.
"No, it's just not what I was expecting," Kendall said, shaking his head. "Is this what you've been hiding from us?" he asked.
"Yeah, I was in denial about all of this, until they showed up yesterday," Kyle sighed.
"How did I miss a package?" Kendall asked.
"He had them shipped to my house, and used my card to pay for them," Jared said.
"I paid you back, and I was really hoping that they would get lost in the mail, but like once I put them on I could actually see things," Kyle said.
"If you don't like glasses, you could always get contacts, that's what I have," Penelope said walking over to him.
"He can't touch his eye," Kendall said.
"I could too," Kyle said quickly.
"Then do it," Kendall said smirking at his son. They stared at one another before Kyle sighed. "I know you, and when Lilly first switched to contacts you watched her put them in and freaked out. Then Miles tortured you for weeks by touching his eye and even got Adam and Jake to do it too."
"Way to call me out," Kyle sighed as the guys all roared with laughter.
"Love you too," Kendall said grinning.
"I would still give it a shot, I was hesitant at first, but now I'm a pro," Penelope said
"He can't, just someone getting close to touching an eye and he freaks out," Kendall replied.
"You don't know that," Kyle said glaring at Kendall.
"I know you better than you know yourself, you are my child," Kendall replied.
"Yeah, I'd deny it, but we look too much alike," Kyle grumbled.
"Love you too," Kendall replied again.
"Anyways, can we move on and get back to work," Kyle asked.
--Happy Mistakes--
Miles moved around Jayda's room looking at all the old pictures of them and Kyle. Jayda was currently on the phone with her manager. She had invited Miles over to hang out since Kyle was working. When he had shown up she was on the phone. She had told him it would be just a minute, however, it had been several long minutes. MIles was starting to get bored.
He decided to go get some water. He headed down to the kitchen. He entered the kitchen and saw Jayda's mom Tammy busy cleaning. She turned and looked surprised to see Miles.
"Oh Miles, it's been a while," she said, setting her rag aside.
"Sorry Mrs. M, I didn't mean to startle you," Miles apologized.
"Is she still on her phone?" Tammy asked.
"Yeah I decided to come to get some water," Miles said.
"That manager of hers keeps calling and telling her to get back out there," Tammy said shaking her head. She walked over to the fridge and grabbed a pitcher of lemonade. Miles grabbed two cups for her.
"Yeah, she was complaining to me the other day that he's pushy," Miles agreed.
"I told her maybe she needs to start looking for a new manager, but she's too scared that she will get blackballed," Tammy said shaking her head, "anyways how have you boys been. I'm surprised that Kyle isn't here."
"He's busy creating his music empire," Miles said, "but he sends his love."
"What about you? What have you been up to?" Tammy asked.
"I've really gotten into filming and video editing. I don't know if you've seen any of my videos, but I do those all by myself," Miles said proudly.
"The Adventure Duo?" Tammy asked with a chuckle referring to his rapidly growing youtube channel.
"Yes, so you've seen it?" Miles asked.
"Of course sweetie, and I've downloaded Kyle's album," Tammy said.
"I'm sure Kyle will be happy to hear that," Miles said.
"Mom stop embarrassing me," Jayda said as she walked into the kitchen.
"We're not even talking about you. I was just asking Miles what the boys had been up to," Tammy told her daughter.
"And you," Jayda said, turning to Miles.
"Well, you left me to my own devices and I need attention otherwise I shrivel up and die. Have you learned nothing?" Miles asked.
"Sorry, Jeff is being an asshole. He's been hounding me to get back out there," Jayda said shaking her head.
"I think you need a new manager, talked to Pops, I'm sure Marty would love a new client. He would also know how to keep you from getting blackballed by that loser," Miles said.
"Marty?" Tammy asked.
"Mr. Knight's manager, Marty James. He's awesome and maybe I should talk to him," Jayda said.
"I'm sure James could put in a good word for you," Tammy agreed.
"Ok enough shop talk, come on Miles let's go," Jayda said.
"Leaving already?" Tammy asked.
"Yep, places to be and people to see. Miles convinced me to do a video for his channel," Jayda said.
"Yep we are going to go get some coffee and discuss details and hopefully Kyle will be able to join us, but like I said he's building his own empire so he's been a bit busy," Miles said jumping up. "Thank you for the lemonade." He added with a smile.
"Have fun you two," Tammy said.
The two left the house and headed out to Miles's car. Miles took them to their usual hang out. He found them a table while Jayda ordered them coffee. He pulled his phone out to text Kyle. He wondered if he was gonna make it today. He was getting busier and busier as the tour neared. Miles hardly saw him anymore, unless he went to the studio with him.
"Ok, so what do you need from me?" Jayda asked as she sat down.
"Huh?" Miles asked.
"For our grand adventure on youtube," Jayda said.
"Oh yeah, I was thinking maybe heading out to the desert and trying out something new," Miles said smiling, "I've got a guy who wants to do a video/photo shoot with those color smoke bombs and in the desert and I told him I knew the perfect model."
"Ok so like a photo shoot, how is this an adventure?" Jayda asked.
"Dune buggies," Miles said, "he also races in the dunes and would teach us a few things."
"Ok now I'm interested," Jayda said smiling.
"I know, he's tentatively setting us for the end of April here, will you be around?" Miles asked.
"Yeah, I'm taking some time for myself. Clarie is actually on her way here," Jayda said smiling.
"Are we finally gonna get a chance to meet her?" Miles asked.
"You no, Kyle yes," Jayda teased.
"Rude," Miles said. Jayda just laughed and shook her head. "Anyways I can't wait to meet her. I just want you happy Jay and if she makes you happy then that's cool."
"Thanks, and she does. I haven't felt like this in a long time," Jayda said smiling dreamily. "Enough about me, what about you. How are things with Leora?"
"Things? We have only gone on like three dates," Miles said with a shrug, "too early to tell."
"Only three? I got a different story from Leora," Jayda said slowly.
"What? What did she say?" Miles asked, his eyes going wide. What was she talking about. Did Leora read more into things than he did? Had they been on more dates?
"She said you two have been spending a lot of time together and went on a few double dates with Kyle and Jared," Jayda said.
"Those were dates? I thought we were just all hanging out and having fun," Miles said, panicked. He hadn't thought that any of those had been dates. Not real dates at least.
"Miles what do you think a date is?" Jayda asked, shaking her head.
"I don't know, two people spending time together and having….fun," Miles said slowly.
"Oh my god, you really are bad at romance," Jayda said.
"I am," Miles said nodding his head. "Like we haven't even kissed yet. I think she might be bored of me."
"Trust me she's not, but you could seal the deal soon," Jayda chuckled.
"But it's Leora," Miles said slowly. "She's like...special and I don't want to like...be me and be underwhelming."
Panic was definitely starting to set in. What did Leora see in him? He was a goofball slacker. He was nerdy. He obviously was dense about romantic things like knowing what was a date and what wasn't a date. Obviously he and Leora were on different pages.
"Relax," Jayda said, reaching across the table and pulling his hand away from his mouth. He hadn't even realized he was chewing on his nail. "Just talk to her. Figure things out. The rest will come."
"Why is dating so hard?" Miles asked.
"But this is Leora we're talking about. You've been crazy for her since you hit puberty and realized hey she's a girl," Jayda said.
"Yeah, but then I met Rion and those feelings went away and then…" Miles cut himself off.
"Then what?" Jayda asked.
Miles sighed and looked down at his coffee. His thought drifted to Kyle, as they did so often these days. What they had wasn't really anything. It was just messing around. Bros helping bors, that's all. It was nothing. It was definitely not something Miles should even be talking about. Kyle would not be happy.
"Miles?" Jayda asked.
"Then after everything with Rion, Leora really helped me out of my funk. I kind of used her as a crutch and like fooled myself into thinking we were dating. Then when we talked about it she told me she loved me like a brother and that really crushed any hope I had," Miles said looking up from his coffee. "So this sudden flip of hers has me a little confused."
"I see," Jayda said slowly.
"And she wasn't even remotely interested in me until I was seeing someone else, both times," Miles said quickly.
"Both times?" Jayda asked, confused.
"Well there was a short fling with a cheerleader," Miles said, his cheeks tinting pink. "It was kind of serious but not really, cause all she was after was my dads fame. It drove Leora mad to see me with her. Like she put her down all the time and told me I could do better, but she never asked me out."
"And?" Jayda asked knowing there was more.
"Just this guy I was experimenting with. It wasn't serious at all. Lucas told Leora I was kind of seeing someone and then she finally asked me out," Miles said looking away from her. He hoped she wouldn't ask anymore questions. He wasn't going to tell. He would never betray Kyle's trust.
"Maybe seeing you with someone made her realize how she felt," Jayda suggested.
"Maybe, but I just...it's all just so confusing right now," Miles said, "like I don't even know who I really am? How can I maintain a relationship when I'm still trying to figure all this-" -he gestured to himself- "out?"
"What do you mean?" Jayda asked.
"I am graduating high school in a few short months here and I don't know what I want to do with my life. Kyle's got his music, Leora has her writing and even Lucas knows he wants to be a physical therapist. You're a model already. Lilly is in pre med. Hell, even Caleb knows he wants to be a lawyer. What about me? I've got no flippin clue what I want to do with my life!" Miles said.
"I thought you were into film?" Jayda said.
"It's a hobby, I'm mediocre at best. I'll never make a career out of it. I'm not good at anything," Miles said looking down at the table once more. He fidgeted with his cup.
"Miles you are getting a lot better at your videos. Just watching the quality improve over the last few months is awesome. Your videos are funny and entertaining," Jayda said.
"I'm like seriously messed up in the head. I just can't…I can't do a relationship again. I can't get my hopes up thinking that they like me when they don't. I've done it too many times lately and it only leads to hurt," Miles said tears coming to his eyes. He hated that he was an angry cryer sometimes.
"Who hurt you?" Jayda asked.
"You know what, let's just forget it," Miles said, throwing his hands up. He knocked his coffee over. Jayda jumped up as it flung across the table at her. "Oh my god I am so sorry!" He gasped.
"It's ok, it comes with the territory of being your friend," Jayda laughed.
She walked away to get some napkins. They cleaned up the mess as best they could. A worker came over with a rag to help them out, telling Miles it happened all the time. They left the cafe and climbed into Miles car together.
The ride was spent in a tense silence. Miles dropped Jayda off plastering a big smile on his face as she got out of the car. He could tell she wanted to press more about his outburst. She knew better though.
Once she was out of sight he drove away. His thoughts turned to his outburst. He had almost told her about everything with Kyle. That would not have been good. She would probably read too much into it and then go confront Kyle and make him tell Jared. It wasn't worth the headache. Besides they were done with all that. They hadn't done anything since he kind of started seeing Leora. There was nothing to tell.
He pulled up to his house. He glanced at the car sitting on the curb. He sighed, it was like Kyle knew when he was on his mind. He had probably gotten into a fight with Jared or Kendall today. He was supposed to be at the studio still.
Miles made his way inside Carlos called out to him from the kitchen about supper and Kyle being here already. Miles gave a quick confirmation that he heard him and ran to his room, locking the door behind him. Kyle was laying on his bed on his phone. He looked up as he entered.
Miles stood there a moment. He wasn't sure what to say. Kyle arched a brow at him in a silent question. Miles composed himself.
"I still can't take you seriously with those glasses," Miled said shaking his head, as he crossed the room.
"I can't take myself seriously, but like I can actually see things," Kyle replied.
"I thought you were going to be at the studio late? Weren't you guys meeting with the personal trainer to get your workout routine set?" Miles asked as he hopped onto the bed beside the blonde.
"Yeah, the guys picked one already," Kyle grumbled.
"What?" Miles asked.
"Jared was being awful too. He couldn't keep his chin off the floor," Kyle said annoyed.
"There it is, I knew something was up," Miles said poking Kyle in the side. Kyle only grunted at him. "Come on either Jared pissed you off or it was your dad."
"Shut up," Kyle said, glaring at him.
"Aw, is someone upset?" Miles asked scooting closer to the blonde. "I wonder if you realize the double standard here. You flirt with Rafi all the time and Jared doesn't bat an eye."
"That's Rafi, it's not serious. I only do it cause I've known him like my whole life and it makes him laugh," Kyle said.
"Come on Jared wouldn't leave you for some buff guy. He's not stupid," Miles said.
"It's not that…" Kyle said, annoyed.
"Someone's jealous? I thought you two had a pretty healthy sex life," Miles replied.
"It's not like that…"Kyle trailed off.
"Oh please, if the world isn't centered on you, you get upset, face it. You're just like me and love being the center of attention," Miles teased. He leaned over and bopped Kyle on the nose. "It's why we are best friends. We hype each other up."
"Ok so what," Kyle pouted.
"You're adorable," Miles cackled, as he leaned on the blonde. Kyle shoved him off with another glare. "I mean Jared needs to learn that you are just as needy as I am. You need attention otherwise you'll shrivel up and die!" He rolled up next to the blonde again smirking.
"Stop," Kyle said, shoving Miles again.
Miles laughed once more. Kyle grunted and shoved him. The pair started to wrestle, with Miles laughing still. They rolled around until Miles had Kyle pinned down with a glare.
Miles looked down at him with a smile. He had never really noticed just how attractive Kyle was before. No, he couldn't be having these thoughts. Kyle was his best friend. Besides he was kind of dating his sister. These were bad thoughts.
"What?" Kyle asked, confused.
Miles opened his mouth but closed it. He didn't know what to say. Could he tell Kyle about all these conflicting emotions he was having. Would he even understand. To Kyle what they had done was nothing. It was fooling around and bros helping bros. To Miles, maybe it had been a bit more. Maybe, he had read too much into things.
Miles wasn't sure what made him do it. He leaned down and caught Kyle's lips in a kiss. Kyle seemed a little caught off guard, but responded quickly. He rolled them over until he was on top and pushed Miles down to the bed. Their lips mashed against one another and hands b were everywhere. Miles didn't know what he wanted. More? Less? He just knew that he didn't want Kyle to stop. His mind was hazy as Kyle's lips moved down his neck.
"You better be quiet, unless you wanna get caught," Kyle said sitting up and looking down at Miles.
He hadn't even realized he was making noise. Miles quickly shut his mouth and nodded his head.
Kyle continued his delicious torture, while Miles aganozied over what this meant. He knew not to read into it. Kyle was mad at Jared. This meant nothing to him. What exactly did this mean to Miles? It wasn't like he was falling for his best friend. Was he?
A knock at the door caused them to freeze. They stared at one another shocked. Had they just been caught.
"Boys supper is almost done. Kyle you're staying right?" Carlos called through the door.
"Yeah, thanks we will be out soon," Kyle hollered back.
"We've got about fifteen minutes til food is done so finish up your game and get out here," Carlos called as he walked away.
Kyle looked over at Miles alarm clock and then back to Miles. Miles arched a brow at him and opened his mouth to speak, but was cut off as Kyle shoved his tongue down his throat. Following his lead Miles let Kyle have his way with him.
—Happy Mistakes—
Adam watched as Cooper hastily tried to clean the apartment, while Miri ran behind him pulling all her toys back out even though he asked her to stop several times. Adam had his hands full with Kenny as he tried to check on the food in the oven.
"Addie, some help here," Cooper sighed.
"Miri playtime is over," Adam called, Miri didn't seem to want to listen.
"Not helping," Cooper said annoyed.
"I'm trying to make sure dinner doesn't burn. Your mother, Rick, and your brother and Rina should be here soon," Adam said as he balanced Kenny on his hip while peeking in the oven. It didn't quite look done yet.
"Yeah and we need to have a clean place for them to sit," Cooper said, turning towards Miri with a stern look. She looked up at him with wide eyes. She dropped her toys and held her arms up towards him. Her lip trembled.
"Don't fall for it," Adam warned him. He exited the kitchen after setting the timer for ten more minutes. "Miri playtime is over. Memaw and Rick are coming. Can you pick up your toys."
Miri looked at Cooper, her eyes starting to water. She made grabby hands at him.
"Coop," Adam warned.
"Miri can you pick up your toys," Cooper asked.
The flood gates opened and Miri started crying. She threw herself down to the floor. Adam sighed and handed Kenny over to Cooper. He walked over to Miri and sat down on the floor.
"Miri," he said calmly. Miri continued to throw her fit. "Miri." He said firmly. Miri looked up at him through her tears. "Play time is done, it's almost time for supper. Memaw is on her way. We need to show her how good of a cleaner you are. You can keep one toy out to play with after supper."
"Memaw?" Miri asked, her eyes going wide. Adam smiled and nodded his head.
"Yeah, she's coming over soon and we need to clean up," Cooper said.
Miri nodded her head. Cooper started picking up toys with her. They made their way back to the toy box with the toys. Miri kept out her rag doll Annie to play with.
"Dr. D is amazing," Adam said, "kids react to energy and keeping calm yourself will keep them calm."
"Yeah, she's awesome," Cooper agreed.
"So why do you think Blaine wanted to come over for supper with everyone," Adam asked.
"I don't know, maybe him and Rina are getting married, finally," Cooper joked.
"Right, they have been together awhile now, and they were friends for a long time before that. I've never seen anyone handle Blaine quite like her. She can see through all his bull shit," Adam commented.
"Bow shit," Miri said.
"Miri no, papa used a bad word," Cooper said his eyes going wide.
"Papa is sorry, but that's a bad word we don't use ok," Adam said.
"Sow-we," Miri said smiling.
Cooper sighed and hung his head, "I'm gonna get a call from your father tomorrow that she's teaching Jenny bad words."
"Probably," Adam said.
A knock at the door caught their attention as the timer started beeping in the kitchen. Cooper headed to the door and Adam to the kitchen. Adam pulled the lasagna out of the often and put the garlic bread in. He set the time and looked up as Cooper let Jennifer and her boyfriend Rick into the apartment, with Rick's 11 year old daughter Suzie.
"Memaw!" Miri ran up to Jennifer with a big smile.
"Hi Jen, Rick, I didn't realize Suzie was coming," Adam said smiling and greeting her as well with a smile.
"My mom got sick," Suzie announced.
"Carol got sick and asked me to keep her an extra few days, I hope that's ok," Rick said.
"That's fine, it's just Blaine wanted lasagna," Cooper said, "she's got a tomato allergy right?"
"Yeah, I can't have any tomatoes," Suzie said nodding her head.
"Don't worry, Miri is so picky I've got lots of things I can make quick," Adam said, waving a hand. "Give me your best shot." He said to Suzie.
Suzie tapped her chin in thought. "How about a grilled cheese." Suzie said.
"Easy peasy," Adam said waving a hand at her.
"With ham," Suzie asked.
"You got it squirt," Adam said with a smile.
"Where's Blaine and Rina? Are they not here yet?" Jennifer asked.
"Not yet," Cooper said.
"Can I play with the baby?" Suzie asked looking up at Cooper.
"Sure, he's a fast one so keep an eye on him," Cooper said, setting Kenny down on the floor.
Suzie nodded her head and got down on the floor with him. They started playing and crawling around together with Suzie directing him.
"She loves babies, and she knows not to pick him up without asking," Rick assured Cooper.
"That's good, Kenny loves playing," Cooper said, leading them over to the couch.
Jennifer and Rick sat down while Adam and Cooper sat down on the love seat. They started chatting while the kids played. They all wondered why Blaine wanted to get everyone together. It was a little unusual of him to make a request.
Blaine and Rina arrived not long after the food was finished cooking. They had brought a cake for dessert. Miri ran up to Blaine making grabby hands. She was done with playing now that uncle Blaine was here. He was her second favorite next to Kyle.
"Suzie I'm sorry I didn't realize you were coming otherwise I wouldn't have asked for lasagna," Blaine apologized to her.
"It's ok, Adam is making grilled ham and cheese for me," Suzie said, looking to Adam who was at the stove finishing her sandwich.
"The best grilled ham and cheese ever," Adam said, causing her to giggle.
"Carol got sick and asked me to keep her for another day," Rick explained.
Soon everyone was seated around the table. Suzie was seated next to Kenny and Miri. Miri was happy to have a playmate. Adam had made a grilled cheese for Miri too, knowing she wouldn't eat the lasagna. All three children got goldfish crackers too. Everyone settled into chatter and laughter.
Cooper couldn't help but wonder what Blaine and Rina had planned. He knew something was up. Blaine was antsy and very distracted.
Once the cake was served much to Suzie and Miri's delight, Jennifer finally asked the question everyone was dying to know.
"So what's up Blaine, are you and Rina finally getting married or what?" Jennifer asked.
"What?" Rina asked.
"Uh no not yet, we do have some other news to share though," Blaine said.
"Wait why not?" Rina asked, cutting Blaine off.
"What?" Blaine asked, turning towards her.
"Why not just get married. I mean I'm already pregnant and I love you. Why not?" Rina asked.
"Ok, yeah let's do it," Blaine said, nodding his head.
"Pregnant?" Jennifer asked.
"Did you two just get engaged?" Adam asked.
"No wait you're pregnant," Jennifer asked Rina.
"Yeah, we just got the results today and it's been killing me keeping quiet about it, and I didn't mean to let it slip like that," Rina said.
"Congrats guys, on both the baby and engagement," Rick said.
"B, I want a ring," Rina said.
"Of course," Blaine chuckled, "I'll get you a ring."
"Can I be a flower girl? Miri too? I can help her!" Suzie said excitedly.
"Of course, anything for my new bonus sister," Rina said with a smile.
"Bonus sister?" Suzie asked her eyes wide.
"Well, with me and Blaine getting married and Jennifer and Rick together that kind of makes us like siblings from different parents," Rina explained.
"Does that mean Blaine and Cooper are bonus brothers?" Suzie asked.
"Yeah, Adam too," Rina said, glancing at Rick.
"What does that make Jennifer? I mean mom already calls her my step mom," Suzie said.
"Does she?" Rick asked.
"Yeah, she says you guys are gonna get married eventually might as well get used to it now," Suzie said.
"I think bonus mon sounds a little better than step mom," Jennifer chimed in. "I mean the stepmother in almost every movie is the villain and I'm no villain," she added.
"Bonus mom it is," Suzie said, "by the way dad mom says you should ask her to marry you soon before she realizes how crazy you are."
"Suzie," Rick said shocked.
"Oh that ship has sailed, I know he's crazy, but I think I'll keep him a bit longer," Jennifer laughed.
"Anyone who can put up with my crazy deserves an award, Carol lasted five years," Rick said.
"What happened with you and Carol anyways?" Blaine asked.
"Conflicting work schedules and we just fell out of love. We are still good friends and raising Suzie together with some help from you guys," Rick said.
"Suzie now that we are bonus sisters I need to take you shopping!" Rina declared.
"Yes we can all go shopping," Jennifer said excited.
"Can I help you with your dress?" Suzie asked timidly.
"Of course I want you and Jennifer both there, with my mom of course and Mel," Rina said, turning to Blaine.
"You better call her tonight and tell her we are getting married," Blaine said.
"Oh my god yes don't let me forget later," Rina said excitedly. She pulled her phone out. "I better call mom and dad." She jumped up and walked into the living room for a little privacy.
"So you're having a baby and getting married," Cooper said, turning to Blaine.
"Yeah, I figured it was my turn to have a kid before you and Adam pop out another one," Blaine joked.
"Don't even joke," Adam said, shaking his head. "We are being extra careful. We don't need anymore right now."
"Right now?" Rick asked.
"Adam comes from a big family and wants at least three kids," Cooper replied.
"Three brothers and two sisters," Adam said before Rick could ask.
"Yeah and with your luck you'll have twins next," Blaine teased.
"Stop it," Adam said, glaring at the elder Anderson brother.
"He's right though, we would be the ones to end up with twins," Cooper laughed.
"Blaine," Jennifer said, getting his attention.
"Yes," Blaine said turning to face her with a smile.
"You should-" Jennifer started.
Blaine put a hand up. "No."
"Blaine, she is your mother," Jennifer said.
"No you are my mother. She didn't raise me, you did," Blaine said.
"That's true, but she is still your mother and who knows. Maybe she's ready to change. You need to give her another chance," Jennifer said.
"Not to side with mom, but I mean after Miri was born I called mom and dad and look how that turned out," Cooper said.
"That's because she never wanted to kick you out dad did. Jessica is not my mother. I haven't talked to her since I turned 18 and before that there was barely any communication there to start with," Blaine said angrily.
"I know what she did was awful, but maybe you should at least reach out. Who knows maybe she's just too scared to try," Jennifer said as Rina returned to the table.
"Who's too scared?" Rina asked, confused.
"No one," Blaine said.
"His birth mother," Cooper said.
"I've been trying to convince him to reach out. I think she deserves to know that her son is about to have a baby and now getting married," Rina said.
"Ok fine, I'll call but that's it. I'm not gonna put any more effort than that. She never put any effort in. Why should I?" Blaine asked.
"That's fair," Jennifer said.
"B, I get it and I won't bug you again after this, but you have to at least try," Rina said.
"Just this once," Blaine sighed.
"Ok, enough of that, this is supposed to be a celebration. We are happy for you guys," Adam said, clapping his hands together.
"Ha-pee!" Miri cheered, mimicking Adam and clapping her hands. Everyone chucked and cheered with her.
—Happy Mistakes—
James pressed his phone to his ear and balanced Jenny on his hip as he paced back and forth. He was supposed to be meeting with Gia and the producers for the show. However he was trying to contact one of his older children to get Jenny. Jake was out of the question as he was with Damien who was still recovering from his accident. Kyle was probably still at work with Kendall. Adam was busy with his kids and Leora wasn't answering her phone. Carlos and Logan were both working too. Which meant that James had to bring Jenny to his meeting. He made one last call to Kendall knowing it was pointless.
"James!"
James turned as Gia ran up to him. She paused when she saw Jenny, but her smile quickly grew. she started cooing at the toddler with a big smile.
"This must be Jenny," Gia said her smile growing.
"Yes and I'm sorry my nanny got sick and I couldn't find someone to watch her-" James stared.
"That's ok, she's so adorable," Gia said holding her hands out to her. Jenny leaned over and crawled into her arms.
"She loves attention," James chuckled.
"Oh she's gonna fit in here nicely," Gia laughed.
"Baba," Jenny babbled as she started to play with Gia's necklace.
"Isn't it pretty?" Gia laughed as she watched her play with it. "Don't tell anyone it's fake ok," she added with a smile. Jenny smiled up at her.
"Jenny can you say hi to Gia?" James asked.
"G?" Jenny asked looking up at Gia.
"Yes that me, you can call me G," Gia cooed at the toddler with a smile.
"Why is there a child in my office?"
James looked up as their producer Gemma Michaels walked over to them. James put a hand up.
"Sorry Gem, I couldn't find a sitter," James started.
"Why didn't you tell me sooner! I've got just the perfect thing for this little one," Gemma said with a smile. She led Jenny and Gia into her office. James trailed behind them confused.
Gemma led them over to a small chest in the corner. She opened it to reveal toys. Jenny's eyes went wide. She started to squirm in Gia's hold. Gia laughed and put her down. Jenny started pulling out toys to play with.
"I've got a granddaughter about her age," Gemma said.
"Me too actually," James said.
"A daughter and granddaughter?" Gemma asked.
"Jenny was our oopsie baby. My other four are all grown up. The twins just turned eighteen not that long ago," James said.
"Ah I see," Gemma said.
"Plus I've got two grandsons," James said.
"Well they are always welcome here if you ever can't find a sitter," Gemma said smiling down at Jenny who was currently working on a shape puzzle.
"Thanks I'll keep that in mind. Her nanny was sick today is all, but maybe once in a while I'll bring them by," James chuckled.
"Yes please, baby fever here," Gia said, waving a hand in the air.
"How is the baby making going?" Gemma asked with a chuckle.
"Gotta find a man first Gem, until then I live vicariously through my sister and now James," Gia said.
"You'll find someone Gia," James said, "until then you can visit with me and my grandkids. Eli is the youngest at five months. Maybe he'll make a surprise visit to one of these meetings soon," James laughed.
"Yes!" Both women cheered.
"Speaking of meetings, should we get started?" Gia asked.
"Aren't we waiting for Dani?" James asked.
"We can catch her up when she gets here," Gemma replied.
The three adults sat down at Gemma's desk. James kept Jenny in his eye sight. They set about talking business while Jenny played.
—Happy Mistakes—
Kyle shoved Miles away as they stacked clean dishes. Carlos was washing and Miles was rinsing, with Kyle putting everything away. It was the least he could do since they fed him. Logan was busy putting the leftovers away.
"Dude stop, you're gonna make me drop something," Kyle said as Miles bumped him again.
"I can't help it, I'm uncoordinated!" Miles said, "we can't all be as graceful as you."
"Oh yeah, I forgot who your dad is," Kyle teased.
"Hey now," Logan said.
"I've heard stories," Kyle said looking over at Logan with a smirk.
"I learned and your dads aren't perfect either. Don't let him fool you," Logan said pointing a finger at Kyle.
"Sure thing Lefty," Kyle said.
"Ok Kendall knock it off," Logan said, his jaw dropping.
"Is old age setting in? I'm Kyle not Kendall remember," Kyle jokes, "dude I think it's time we admit him to the old folks home. He's not recognizing people anymore."
Logan laughed at that causing Carlos and Miles to laugh as well.
"I'm not that old yet, but I can't believe he told you that story," Logan said, shaking his head.
"I can, it's Kendall. He's got loose lips," Carlos replied.
"Yeah, but Kendall wouldn't even know the story if someone hadn't told James," Logan said, shooting Carlos a playful glare. Carlos just smiled back at him.
"So boys, any plans tonight or are you gonna play video games all night?" Carlos asked, changing the subject.
"Probably play video games, Kyle got us uninvited to movie night," Miles said, shooting Kyle a look.
"We're not uninvited, but I'm not the one who should apologize," Kyle said.
"Apologize to who?" Carlos asked.
"Jared, they got into a fight," Miles said.
"What happened, if you don't mind us asking," Logan said curiously.
The four moved to sit around the table again.
"So the guys are hiring a personal trainer to help on tour. Jared's jaw hit the floor and he never picked it up. And like he's attractive, but like he was very obvious about it. I tried to talk to him about it and he blew it up," Kyle said.
"Did he bring up Rafi?" Miles asked.
"What about Rafi?" Logan asked.
"He flirts with Rafi hardcore," Miles explained.
"Yes but not seriously. It's a joke and Rafi knows that's. It's funny to watch his shock," Kyle said, "although he's getting used to it now," he added.
"Sounds like you two need to talk," Logan said.
"I tried that but he won't listen. He just blows it up and makes it worse than it is. I'm not mad that he was even staring at the guy. Hell I was looking, it's the fact that he was a little unprofessional that bothers me. There's a time and a place for everything," Kyle said.
"Give him some space. Let things cool down before you try again," Carlos said.
"Yes, let him complain about you like your complaint about him," Logan said, "you can't spend every waking hour together. It will only drive you both over the edge. Take some time apart once in awhile."
"Thanks, and I am giving him space, I'm here with Miles," Kyle replied.
"Yep, maybe we should have our own movie night. I can text Lu and Artie and see what they are up to? You can text Le." Miles said excitedly.
"I'll make a snack run. I think we are out of popcorn," Carlos sighed.
"Thanks papi," Miles said jumping up and pulling Kyle from the room.
"Dude, slow down," Kyle laughed.
They entered Miles' room and he set about texting and called everyone. Kyle pulled his phone up to help and saw that Jared had called him several times and even left a message.
"Don't even think about it. Just text your sister," Miles said without looking up from his phone.
"What?" Kyle asked.
"Leave Jared alone. Tonight is for friends and watching some good old fashioned zombie murder," Miles said.
"I wasn't-" Kyle started.
"Liar," Miles said, glaring at him.
"Ok fine maybe I was, but he's still a jerk," Kyle said. He quickly texted Leora an invite to their impromptu movie night.
"Good boy, now come on grab pillows and blankets and let's go!" Miles declared.
"Good boy? Am I a dog now?" Kyle joked as he helped Miles grab his pillows. They headed out to the living room. Where Logan was already putting out more blankets and pillows for them.
It wasn't long before Lucas and Artie arrived with snacks. They had candy and sodas. Miles and Lucas started to argue about what movie to watch. Kyle laughed as he headed to the kitchen to check on the popcorn situation.
—Happy Mistakes—
Jared tapped his foot as he listened to Kyle's phone go to voicemail again. He growled in frustration as he hung up. What good was leaving another message. Kyle was ignoring him.
They had gotten into a little argument at the studio and Kyle stomped off. It wasn't even that big of a deal really. So what if Jared had stared at another guy. What was wrong with him just looking. It's not like he was flirting with him.
"Still pouting?"
Jared looked up as Matt entered the kitchen. The guys had all come over for a movie night after work. Jared was supposed to be getting more popcorn for Noah, but he got distracted.
"No," Jared lied. He grabbed the bowl of popcorn he had made and moved to walk past Matt, who stopped him.
"It's ok to be upset. Kyle's a hypocrite, but you were practically drooling over him," Matt said.
"I know I'm not free of blame here, but he acts like I was hitting on the guy, which might I remind you that he does all the time in front of me," Jared said, turning to face Matt.
"That's just with Rafi," Matt said waving a hand.
"So what, he's still flirting with someone else. How do you think that makes me feel?" Jared asked setting the popcorn back down on the counter.
"Not good I'll bet," Matt said.
"Not at all, makes me feel like I'm not enough," Jared admitted. He set the popcorn bowl down. "Which is how I imagine he felt earlier."
"Probably," Matt agreed.
"Still it didn't mean anything. I'm not blind and I'm sure Kyle noticed too, he was just better at not staring," Jared grumbled, as he picked at the popcorn.
"Yes but he's a bit insecure about the whole glasses thing and you were staring quite a bit dude," Matt said.
"I was listening. If there's one thing I was taught as a child it was to have a firm handshake and make eye contact. You know, when he tried to be my dad for awhile, before he realized I was a fruity little singing fairy," Jared spat, smushing the popcorn in his hand.
"Ok fair, but I can kind of see Kyle's side of the argument. If Pen was staring at another guy I'd ask her why, and maybe be a little annoyed that I'm not like the center of her universe," Matt joked.
"You're not funny Matty," Jared deadpanned, he chucked a handful of popcorn at the taller man.
"I'm hilarious," Matt said, jumping back away from the popcorn. "but seriously, cut the kid some slack. He's stressed and overworked. He just finally snapped is all."
"Yeah, I guess," Jared said
"You know what Munroe, let's forget about Kyle tonight. If he wants to sulk and go whine to Miles let him. Tonight we are going to be watching zombies and explosions," Matt said grabbing the popcorn.
"Don't even get me started on him running to Miles," Jared groaned.
"What?" Matt asked, confused.
"Kyle tells him everything. And I do mean everything. He knows things about me that Ro doesn't even know and I'm gonna leave it at that," Jared said shaking his head. Matt started laughing.
"Oh my sure Penelope's friends know intimate details about you too," Jared said, cutting his laughter off.
"I don't like to think about what she tells her friends. I just pretend she doesn't and it helps me cope," Matt replied causing Jared to laugh this time.
"But you are right, let's forget about him right now and focus on movie night," Jared said.
"That's the spirit Munroe," Matt said. He steered Jared out of the kitchen.
"About time," Noah said, jumping up and grabbing the popcorn. He claimed the recliner all to himself with his popcorn.
"You're supposed to share that," Roldy said from the couch.
"Make me," Noah challenged. Roldy just put his hands up in surrender.
"Sorry No," Jared apologized, "I'm here now and ready to watch some gruesome zombie killing."
"Still pouting over Kyle?" Roldy said as Jared sat down beside him on the couch.
"Nope, if he wants to be crabby let him. He knows where I am and how to get a hold of me," Jared said.
"Things alright with you guys?" Noah asked arching a brow at Jared.
"Usually, I don't know what's got him all riled up lately. It's like he's trying to pick a fight with me," Jared sighed.
"Could be the stress. I mean he's about to graduate high school and then go on a full blown summer tour," Roldy reasoned.
"Yeah, our first tour was like six weeks, this is almost a four month tour," Matt said.
"He's excited for the tour. He wants to be on the road already," Jared said, "I don't know what's up. It's just like the last few weeks he's been getting moodier and moodier."
"Maybe it's just his time of the month, let's just focus on zombies and explosions," Matt said gesturing to the TV.
"Yes let's," Jared agreed. He grabbed the remote from the table. He started the movie and they all settled in for a guys night.