Chapter 27: The Long way Home
Kendall and Logan did a quick sweep of the cabin. They wanted to make sure everything was packed and ready to go. They were finally free to leave. Kendall had spent all morning getting packed. They had yet to actually put everything in their cars.
The cabin had been plowed out late last night. The resort owner had talked to him about the last week being free. Weather was unpredictable and they didn't need to pay for their extended stay.
"I think that's everything," Logan said.
"Good, let's get some breakfast and get going," Kendall said.
They returned to the kitchen where everyone was eating and making plans for the day of travel before them. They quickly made a bowl of cereal for themselves, standing at the counter as seating was limited.
"Has anyone heard from Kyle yet?" James asked, looking to his children.
Jake and Adam both shook their heads. Leora shrugged as she pulled her phone out. No one had heard from Kyle or the guys all morning. It wasn't for lack of trying either.
"He won't answer his phone," Leora said.
"And he won't because he is dying and he shut it off."
The group turned as Jared, Miles, Matt, and Penelope entered the kitchen. Jill and Carly jumped up and ran over to Jared with hugs.
"So what's he dying from this time?" Kendall asked.
"A migraine," Jared replied.
"Migraine?" Kendall asked.
"Yeah, he's been in bed for the last three days," Matt said.
"I'm gonna go check on him," Kendall said, setting his bowl of cereal aside.
The front door slammed causing everyone to jump. They heard running footsteps followed by another door slamming down the hallway.
"He's in the bathroom," Jared said, "he's been puking all morning."
"Not that he's got much left in him because he hasn't been eating much the last few days," Penelope commented.
Kendall nudged Logan. The two left the kitchen with James not far behind. Kendall knocked on the door.
"It's not locked," Kyle called weakly.
Kendall entered the bathroom. Kyle was sitting on the floor against the bathtub. He had his knees drawn up to his chest. He was panting and shaking.
"What wrong," James asked, pushing past Kendall. He fell to his knees beside Kyle, going into worried parent mode.
Kyle just shook his head. He dropped his head down and groaned. He was pale and shaking.
"What's wrong," Logan asked, moving to his other side. He placed a hand on his forehead. "No fever."
"Head hurts," Kyle said through grit teeth. "Stomach upset." He wrapped his arms tighter around himself. He couldn't seem to stop shaking.
"Kendall go tell Carlos to grab my bag," Logan said. Kendall nodded and left. "James go get a blanket." James opened his mouth but Logan stopped him. "Are you cold?" He asked Kyle. Kyle nodded his head. "James go get a blanket and a glass of water." James left after that.
"I hurt," Kyle said weakly, "my head is pounding, the light hurts. Everything aches and the puking started this morning, however there is nothing in my stomach, so not much comes up."
"Sounds like a migraine," Logan said, "except for the shakes which could be part of a cold. You could've gotten the cold and then the migraine developed."
"I don't have a cough," Kyle said.
"You don't necessarily need one. The body aches, the shakes, the lack of fever. It's probably a cold and a migraine sort of like a double whammy," Logan said.
"Yay me," Kyle said sarcastically.
James returned with a blanket and a glass of water, with Kendall and Carlos close behind. James quickly covered Kyle with the blanket, much to his annoyance.
"Are you trying to suffocate me," Kyle asked, pulling the blanket down from his throat.
"Sorry," James replied.
"I think I'm gonna be sick," Kyle said. He shoved the blanket aside. He rushed to the toilet as he started dry heaving.
"He's allergic to aspirin right?" Logan asked as he took his bag from Carlos. He started to rummage around until he pulled out two pill bottles.
"What?" James asked having not been listening.
"Yes," Kendall said nodding his head.
Logan poured two pills from one bottle and one pill from the other into his hand. He waited for Kyle to finish heaving.
"Here take these," Logan said, handing the pills to Kyle.
"What are you giving him?" Kendall asked, moving over to Logan. Logan handed him the bottles. "Acetaminophen and caffeine."
"For the migraine, since he can't have aspirin this is the next best thing," Logan said, grabbing the glass of water from the counter and passing it to Kyle.
"And why do you have caffeine pills on hand?" Kendall asked.
"You try working sixteen hours shifts in the ER. Coffee can only go so far," Logan replied.
"How are these going to help?" James asked as Kyle took the pills.
"Excedrin for migraines has three medications in it, Tylenol, caffeine, and aspirin," Logan said matter-of-factly. "Since he can't have aspirin this is the next best thing."
"Thanks," Kyle said weakly.
Kendall helped Kyle to his feet. They exited the bathroom. Jared was out in the hallway with Miles and Leora.
"Feeling any better?" Miles asked. Kyle just shook his head.
"I would've come in there but it seemed a bit crowded," Jared said.
"Liar, you just didn't want to see me puke," Kyle said.
"It's gross, sorry I can't handle it," Jared said, putting his hands up.
"Wimp," Miles said.
"Don't listen to them, I can't handle it either. If you puke, I puke," Leora said.
"Thank you Leora," Jared said.
"And I didn't see you running in there to help," Leora said, turning to Miles.
"Well, it was crowded in there," Miles said.
Kyle flinched at the noise that was Miles. Jared elbowed him and shushed him. Miles gave a small apologetic look to Kyle.
"Alright to the kitchen," Kendall said, ushering everyone into the kitchen.
Once they returned everyone looked at Kyle but didn't say anything. Kyle hung back by the doorway and Jared stayed by his side, with Miles close by.
"Ok we have to figure out who's riding with who," Kendall said, getting everyone's attention.
"We are missing someone," James said.
"No and Ro," Jared said, "they are heading to their cabin and they are leaving alone."
"Yeah, so Matt and I need to catch a ride with someone," Penelope said.
"Day and I need to figure one out too cause we rode up with Adam and Cooper without the kids," Jake said.
"As long as someone else gives Miles a ride home, my head is pounding and I don't need that torture right now," Kyle said.
"Hurtful," Miles said feigning hurt.
"Ok I need everyone who is driving to come over here. We need to figure out how many cars and who's going where," Kendall said.
Logan, Adam, Leora, and Jared all joined Kendall. Kendall did a quick count and did the math with Logan.
"Alright, Adam and Cooper you have your kids so there's a car full," Kendall said quickly.
"We can take Jenny too, I'm sure she would love riding with Miri," Adam said.
"That's one car full," Kendall said. Adam took his seat next to Cooper. "Leora."
"Girls trip!" Leora declared. "Lilly and I can take Jill and Cary again."
"Go ahead," Jared said.
"Me too," Layla said putting her hand up.
"Full car," Lilly said smiling. Leora quickly sat down.
"I don't like where this is heading," Kyle mumbled.
"Logan, James and I can ride with you and Los," Kendall said fishing his keys from his pocket. Logan nodded his head in agreement. "Jake, you and Damien can take the SUV." He said tossing the keys to his son.
"Sounds good," Jake said.
"Matt, you and Penelope can ride with us as long as you don't mind riding with Eli," Damien said.
"I don't like this math," Kyle said glaring at everyone.
"I'll be quiet," Miles promised.
"You don't know the meaning of the word," Jared snorted. Everyone laughed as they agreed.
"Sorry every other car is full," Leora said.
"You're not sorry, you just don't wanna ride with Miles because he's a nightmare on car trips," Kyle shot back at her.
"I'd be hurt, except I know its true," Miles said.
"Dad take him," Kyle said knowing there was a seat in their vehicle.
"Why should we, he's your best friend. You chose him," Logan said.
"He's your son," Kyle replied.
"I'm right here," Miles said.
"Shut up," Kyle said
"Our car is full. We cannot comfortably fit three in back," Logan said.
"I swear this is a punishment, but I've done nothing wrong," Kyle said as he left the kitchen.
"I'll be on my best behavior I promise," Miles said turning to Jared.
"It's not me you gotta promise," Jared said. Miles dashed out the door.
"Kyle might actually strangle him," Kendall said.
Noah and Roldy entered the kitchen next. Everyone greeted them.
"Kyle must be feeling better," Roldy said.
"Why do you say that?" Jared asked.
"Because him and Miles are wrestling in the snow," Noah replied.
"Seriously?" Jared asked. He looked towards the door. He knew he should probably go break it up, but at the same time they needed to let off steam from being stuck together for almost five days.
"Just gonna let them fight?" Roldy asked.
"Maybe another minute or so, let them get it out of their system before we are stuck in a car together for eight hours," Jared said.
Once everyone was finished eating they headed out to the cars and started packing suitcase. Kyle and Miles were both standing by Kyle's car arguing. Miles was nursing a bloody nose and Kyle had a split lip. They were glaring at each other.
"Get it out of your system," Jared asked as he approached them.
"It wasn't my fault," Miles said, "I slipped and he was in the way."
"I hate you, right now," Kyle said, glaring at Miles.
"Nah, you know you love me," Miles said with a grin.
"Don't push it Miles," Jared said.
"Ok let's hit the road, we will stop for lunch together. As we get closer to the time we will text you and figure out where to go," Kendall said, "Leora, Jake, that means phone down while driving."
"One fender bender and suddenly I have a problem," Jake mumbled.
"Right," Leora agreed.
—Happy Mistakes—
Noah laughed as he listened to Roldy road rage. It was funny how worked up he got. The two had gotten their car to themselves. Matt and Jared had insisted they ride alone.
They had missed the rest of their honeymoon. Noah didn't mind, as long as he was with Roldy he was happy. He didn't care what they did.
Currently they were driving through a small town. It seemed like they hit every single red light in the last ten minutes. Roldy was grumbling about how people were awful drivers and needed to retake the road test.
"Stop laughing," Roldy said slightly annoyed.
"I can't help it, you're so funny when you're mad," Noah said leaning over and pecking Roldy on the cheek.
"Don't distract the driver," Roldy said quickly. A small smile formed on his lips.
"You know," Noah said slowly.
"What?" Roldy asked.
"We don't have to go home right away," Noah said mischievously.
"Where would we go?" Roldy asked.
"We could take the long way home," Noah replied with a grin.
"Oh really now?" Roldy asked glancing over at Noah with a smile of his own.
"Yeah, I mean we don't have to be home right away. Technically we are supposed to be on our honeymoon," Noah said.
"The long way it is," Roldy replied as he hit another red light.
Noah leaned over quickly and kissed him. Roldy hummed into the kiss and allowed Noah to have his way with him. A honk behind them told them that the light was green.
Roldy started driving again. He was in a more relaxed mood than he had been a few minutes ago. Noah reached over and laced their fingers together. This moment right now was perfect.
Noah's phone rang breaking the comfortable silence. He snatched it from the center console and answered Matt's call.
"Hey No, we are stopping for lunch soon, you two game?" Matt asked.
"Yes I'm starving," Noah said.
"Ok, Kendall found a place and sent us the address. I'll send it to you guys," Matt said.
"Sweet, we will see you there," Noah said before hanging up. He turned to his husband. "Matt said food and Kendall and James found a place already. He's sending me the address so we can meet up."
"Good I'm starving," Roldy said.
Noah got the address and put it in the GPS. The ride there was filled with light chatter and laughter. Once they arrived they saw James and Carlos standing outside by the restaurant.
"Hey guys, head in Kendall and Logan got us a section to ourselves," James said.
"Everyone here yet?" Noah asked.
"No, we are still waiting on the girls and Jake and Damien," Carlos said.
Noah and Roldy made their way inside. Kendall was standing talking with a waitress, a sign that said section closed. Noah ran up to him.
"Hey Kendall, we're here," Noah announced.
"Take a seat over here, and try not to draw attention to yourself, Jared already had to take pictures with some girls who recognized him," Kendall said.
"Right sorry," Noah said quickly.
He dragged Roldy over to a table where Jared, Kyle and Miles were already sitting together. Kyle had his hood up and was wearing sunglasses. He still looked miserable. Adam and Cooper were sitting at another table with the kids. Miri and Jenny were coloring on their kids menus. Logan was sitting at a table on his own with his phone out. He was no doubt texting the girls trying to see where they were.
"Hey guys," Noah greeted them.
"Be glad that you missed the swarm of fan girls," Jared said.
"Yeah they spotted him the second we walked in," Miles said.
"I was lucky, I just snuck right past," Kyle said, lifting his head up from the table.
"Also doesn't help that you're wearing sunglasses and a hoodie inside," Jared said.
"Hello migraine," Kyle said.
"Feeling any better?" Noah asked.
"A little, but it would be better if Miles knew how to shut up," Kyle said.
"Love you too, I know you're hurting and you don't mean those hurtful things you say," Miles said.
"Whatever helps you sleep at night dude," Kyle replied.
"Any word from Kelly about the plane tickets?" Jared asked.
"Not yet," Roldy said.
"Don't worry, we can handle things for a few weeks without you guys," Jared said.
"Yes, you two deserve a honeymoon and time alone, away from annoying friends," Miles said.
"You're not annoying Miles," Noah said.
"Seriously, what world are you living in?" Roldy asked. Noah just glared at Roldy.
"Yeah I'm obnoxious," Miles said.
"Yes, but by now we all know that and for you to be anything else would mean you're not being your true self. I wouldn't have you any other way Miles," Noah said.
"I just wish he would be a little quieter," Kyle said.
"But that's not me being my true self," Miles protested.
"That's strike one," Kyle said, "I will banish you from this table."
"Miles, behave," Logan called from his spot a few tables over.
"I am," Miles replied. Kyle opened his mouth, "that's not a strike."
"Where is everybody," Noah asked looking around. He was hungry and wanted to eat soon.
"We are waiting on Leora and Lilly. They are always fashionably late," Kyle replied.
"Hey we made it before Jake and Damien did," Leora said as she passed their table. Jill and Carly greeted Jared excitedly.
"Kyle's got a migraine, quiet remember," Jared said.
"Sorry," the two said quietly.
"Come on let's go sit," Leora said, ushering the two to another table.
Kendall, Carlos, and James all walked over to the group. Kendall told them that Jake and Damien were gonna be a little late that they had gotten a flat tire and they were working on getting back on the road.
"How far out are they?" Leora asked.
"Jake said their GPS said they were like fifteen minutes away," Kendall said.
"Can we order now? I'm starving," Miles whined.
"That's two," Kyle warned him.
"That's not fair," Miles said.
"Is too, wanna go for three," Kyle asked.
"Miles just come sit over here," Logan said from his spot a few tables away.
"No I'll stop," Miles said looking down at the table.
Soon their drink and appetizers were ordered. It wasn't long before Jake and Damien arrived apologizing for being late. Jake and Damien day down with Adam and Cooper, whole Matt and Penelope pulled another table over to sit with the guys.
"Can I just say that Penelope is the reason that we made it here so fast," Damien said.
"No, Jake was a big help too," Penelope said.
"I can't believe you and Matt don't know how to change a tire," Jake said, shaking his head.
"Sorry my parents never taught me how to change a tire. It's never been a problem until now, but I married you and you know how to do it," Damien replies.
"Still, it's one of the first things dad and pops taught us once we got our licenses," Jake said.
"Yeah, even I know how to change a tire," Leora said.
"Ok moving on," Matt said trying to change the subject.
Everyone settled in and ordered their food. Everyone was having a good time, talking and laughing, even Kyle who was starting to feel a little better.
—Happy Mistakes—
Kyle jerked awake as his head bumped the window. He felt dizzy for a moment as he gathered his surroundings. He was in his car. Jared and Miles were actually talking softly. Kyle's head didn't hurt as bad as it had this morning. Maybe the medicine was working. Logan had even given him some more after lunch.
"Where are we?" Kyle asked sitting up alerting the other two that he was awake. He yawned and stretched as much as he could in a cramped car.
"About two hours from LA," Jared replied.
"Have I been sleeping that long?" Kyle asked shocked.
"Yeah, and I've been good and not been too loud," Miles said proudly.
"I'm proud," Kyle chuckled weakly.
"Feeling any better?" Jared asked, reaching a hand over towards him. Kyle smiles and took his hand.
"A little, it's not as bad as it's been. Maybe I'm finally getting over this," Kyle replied. "Can we stop soon? I need a bathroom break."
"Sure," Jared said.
"Any idea where anyone else is?" Kyle asked.
"Yours dads are ahead of us somewhere," Jared said.
"Lilly and Leora are taking the scenic route off the freeway," Miles said, "they are still like three hours away from home."
"Jake and Damien are behind us by like five, maybe ten minutes," Jared said, "at least they were the last we checked."
"Wow, I can't believe I slept that long," Kyle said slowly.
"Me either, especially with this one here," Jared said, jerking a thumb in Miles' direction.
"Hey I've been on my best behavior," Miles defended himself.
"You actually have, but you got loud a couple times. I was sure he was gonna wake up," Jared replied.
"When is the next gas station. I gotta go?" Kyle asked.
"As soon as I can get to an exit, I can't just cut across traffic," Jared replied.
It was another fifteen minutes before they were able to stop. Kyle flew from the car with Miles close behind him hollering about the buddy system. Jared chuckled as he followed the two inside.
Kyle quickly did his business. He exited the stall as Miles exited the one next to him. They both walked over to the sinks.
"Are you really feeling better?" Miles asked as he washed his hands.
"Yeah, I think it's all out of my system," Kyle nodded his head.
"Good, if I ever catch-" Miles started again.
"I've learned my lesson Miles," Kyle cut him off.
"So I've got a question," Miles said, stopping and leaning against the sink.
"What?" Kyle asked, crossing his arms over his chest.
"On new year's, why did you kiss me?" Miles asked.
"Because I thought it would be funny," Kyle said, "I was hoping it would shut you up, but apparently nothing does."
"Ok," Miles said, nodding his head.
"What?" Kyle asked, confused.
Miles closed the gap between them and kissed Kyle. It was a soft peck. Miles softly fit their lips together. It was simple and it was over before Kyle even knew what was happening.
"What was that for?" Kyle asked, slowly. He had not been expecting that.
"I don't know," Miles shrugged. He headed out to the store.
Kyle followed after him confused. He had so many questions, but he knew Miles wouldn't answer them right now. He was probably working through it himself. He spotted, Jared was grabbing a couple bottles of water. Kyle and Miles ran to the snacks. Jared followed them.
"Water?" Kyle asked.
"Yes, you need to stay hydrated," Jared said.
"But-" Kyle started.
"No buts, you heard Logan. Dehydration can cause headaches and migraines. Do you want it to get worse?" Jared asked.
"I'll drink water," Kyle said quickly.
"That's what I thought," Jared chuckled.
The three gathered their snacks and paid for them. They made their way back to the car. They needed to get back on the road.
—Happy Mistakes—
Kendall watched James and Carlos as they laughed and talked. Currently the three were standing outside by Logan's SUV, waiting for Logan. They had all stopped at a gas station for a pit stop. James and Kendall had bought some snacks while Carlos used the bathroom and Logan gassed the car up. Logan was currently inside paying. He was taking his sweet time too.
Kendall wasn't paying much attention to the conversation, he was watching James. Even after all this time James was a distraction. He could take the blonde's attention in any situation. That worst part about it, was that James knew all this. He knew damn well what he did. Sometimes Kendall swore he flaunted himself on purpose.
Right now was one of those moments James had no idea what he was doing. He was just talking with his best friend, oblivious to his husband and his internal struggle behind him.
Kendall was just admiring the beauty that was James Knight. He had a few inches on Kendall height wise, but Kendall didn't care. His hair was flawless as always, even with the few grey hairs he had, not that Kendall told him about the grey. If anything the grey hair made him look more mature and even sexier to Kendall. His eyes were like a magnet for Kendall. Those beautiful hazel pools just dragged him in. He could get easily lost in them.
"What's taking Logan so long?" James asked, bringing Kendall from his thoughts.
"Yeah he's been in there for forever," Carlos said.
Suddenly Logan came speed walking out of the store. He quickly unlocked the car and told them all to get in. He tossed the keys to Kendall telling him it was his turn to drive.
"What's wrong?" Carlos asked, confused.
"Just get in the car Carlos, I'll explain in a minute," Logan said as he slid into the passenger's seat.
James and Carlos quickly climbed into the back seat. Kendall quickly got in as well and started the car. He started driving at Logan's insistence.
"What's going on?" Carlos asked
"I don't know which one of you they were taking about but there was a group of moms and dads in there. They were talking quietly and pointing out the window," Logan said.
"It was me," James and Carlos said simultaneously. They both turned to the other confused.
"Hello, big cable network star," Carlos said.
"Hello, famous model on a TV show," James replied.
"What have you done?" Kendall asked.
"You know I think they said something about the blonde one," Logan said with a mischievous grin.
"Stop," Kendall groaned. He didn't need Logan egging them on.
"Obviously it was me," Carlos said ignoring the two in the front. "You know I'm part of a hot number one TV show."
"You wish," James said, shaking his head.
"Well we could go back and ask them who they were arguing about," Kendall offered.
"No thank you, then we would be stuck there all afternoon," Carlos said.
"Yeah we would never get out of there," James agreed.
"You two are odd," Logan said shaking his head.
James and Carlos resumed arguing about who had been recognized.
"Don't question it Loges, I'm sure they say the same thing about us," Kendall said.
"Anyways, home much longer until we get home?" Logan asked.
"Couple hours still, I just got off the phone with Leora and they aren't that far behind us either," Kendall said.
"What about the boys?" Logan asked.
"Which boys?" Kendall asked.
"The younger two," Logan replied.
"I don't know, Jared hasn't texted me in awhile," Kendall replied, "has your child messaged you?"
Logan pulled his cell phone out. He quickly texted Miles asking him where they were. He set it on the center console and waited for a response. He continued to talk to Kendall as James and Carlos argued in the back.
"So, when does Lilly leave?" Kendall asked Carlos' attention as well.
"Two and a half weeks," Logan sighed. "I still can't believe she's heading off to college."
"So soon?" Carlos asked. It was a topic the two had avoided for a long as they could.
"Yeah, she told me this morning that she needed to start packing once we got home," Logan said.
"I know, it was the same way with Jake. When he moved out for college, I didn't want to let him go, but he was only moving like twenty minutes away, not five hours away."
"Stop," Logan said, shaking his head. He didn't want to believe that Lilly was actually leaving.
"The sooner you accept it the smoother things will go," Kendall said.
"Easy for you to say, you've got three kids out of the house already," Logan said.
"Three?" James asked.
"Oh please, Kyle practically lives with Jared. He gave him a house key for Christmas," Carlos said.
"Yeah, but have you met Kyle, if we didn't set rules and allow him he would sneak around behind our backs and do it anyway," James replied.
"I guess, but still I don't think I would ever let the girls or Miles do that," Carlos said shaking his head.
"We had to pick the lesser of two evils. He was gonna do it either way," James said.
"This way at least we can pretend we have some control over the situation," Kendall added.
Logan's phone started to ring. Kendall snatched it and tossed it to James. James answered by putting it on speaker.
"Hello Logan's phone he's currently unavailable may I take a message," James asked leaning forward and slapping a hand over Logan's mouth before he could protest.
"He texts me and then runs away from his phone figures," Miles said.
"Oh Miles," James said, not moving his hand as Logan struggled. "What's up? Everything alright?"
"Nah, we totally crashed and flipped the car. We are all dying a fiery burning wreck," Miles laughed. Laughter from Jared and Kyle could be heard in the background.
Logan finally pulled James' hand away.
"You're an awful child," Logan said causing Miles to laugh.
"Is that why his name is demon child in your phone," James asked.
"Oh please I know it says second favorite child, because I'm the one who changed them all," Miles replied.
"Who's first?" Kendall asked.
"Obviously Lilly," Miles said.
Kendall glances over to Logan who seemed to be choosing his words carefully.
"Well, he's not wrong," Logan replied ducking away from Carlos as he slapped him upside the head.
"We love all our children equally," Carlos said.
"Sure you do," Miles snorted.
"Ok, then how come Layla goes running to you when she doesn't get her way and I end up getting yelled at. Aren't we supposed to be a team or something and back each other up once in a while," Logan asked.
"Because sometimes you can be a bit unreasonable," Carlos said.
"He can be very unreasonable almost all the time," Miles quipped.
"Kendall," Logan said.
"Carlos you have a soft spot for Layla," Kendall said.
"She's my daughter-" Carlos started as he turned to look at James.
"You do tend to favor her a bit more than the others," James cut him off.
"I feel attacked and I don't like this line of questioning anymore," Carlos said quickly.
Everyone laughed at that. Miles said a quick goodbye telling them that they were about 45 minutes out from home, and promising that he would call once they made it back safely.
—Happy Mistakes—
Noah panted as he slid into the car. Roldy quickly ran around and joined him. They shared a look before they burst out laughing. Noah fell back in his seat holding his sides.
"I can't believe you did that," Roldy said.
"She was being a bitch," Noah said, a hand flying to his mouth. He rarely swore, when he did it was a surprise still.
"I don't care if you swear No," Roldy laughed.
"I know it's such a habit. Mom never liked it," Noah replied waving a hand.
"Anyways, let's get going before she comes out here," Roldy said, starting the car.
"Let her, I can take her," Noah said.
"You sure are feisty today," Roldy said.
"Well, no one messes with my husband," Noah said fiercely.
"God I love you," Roldy said, leaning over and kissing Noah. "I wasn't upset. I'm used to it."
"I don't care, she was talking down to us," Noah said.
"I know, but it's nothing new. I mean you still look like you're sixteen," Roldy said.
"I can't help it, I have a baby face! I am twenty one and I am more is a legal adult than her," Noah shouted putting a fist in the air, almost hitting the roof of the car.
"Yeah and you let her have it. That was actually kinda hot," Roldy said.
"Really now," Noah asked grinning at Roldy.
"Yes, you turn me on like crazy Noah," Roldy said leaning over once more and sealing their lips together again. "It's part of the reason I married you."
"Only part?" Noah asked sitting back.
"Love had a big part to do with it," Roldy said.
"Nice save, at least you don't only lust after me," Noah replied.
"Oh it's that and so much more Noah," Roldy said. "I love everything about you, even the things you don't like."
Noah's hands flew to his ears as he looked down. Roldy chuckled and tilted his head back up to look him in the eyes. He grabbed his hand and lowered it.
"I love your ears," Roldy said.
"They're big and goofy and make my head look small," Noah said.
"They are not that big, you need to stop reading comments on our interviews," Roldy sighed.
"I love all you Noah, even your so-called imperfections. You are perfectly imperfect and o love that," Roldy said. He leaned forward and kissed him once more. "Now come on, we've got a long drive ahead of us still."
They settled back into their seats. Roldy started driving. Noah reached over and held his hand.
They sat in a comfortable silence. Words weren't needed right now. They had each other and that was enough. It wasn't until Noh saw a sign that made him question Roldy.
"Why did that sign say welcome to Nevada?" Noah asked.
"We are taking the long way home," Roldy replied with a grin.
"I love you," Noah said.
—Happy Mistakes—
Kyle raced after Jared. They had dropped Miles off at home not that long ago. Jared had then taken Kyle for a ride. They ended up at Jared's new house which wasn't that far from the Knights house.
Jared was taking Kyle on an official tour. The house was empty, but it was his. They were making plans and figuring out where everything was gonna go. They were making plans and trying to picture the house as a home.
"We are gonna have to go furniture shopping soon," Jared said.
"Let's take Leora with us," Kyle said.
"Yes let's bring the shopaholic with us," Jared joked.
Kyle laughed at that. "No, she and pops did the living room a few years back. She's got a eye for what goes together and can help us not look like idiots," he said.
"Ah I see," Jared chuckled. He led Kyle up the stairs and showed him the bedrooms and who would be where.
"This would be Jill's room, and Carly across the hall," Jared said, "there's a bathroom there and one guest room." He said pointing to the next two doors.
"I'm guess the master is at the end of the hall," Kyle said making his way towards it.
They entered the master bedroom. Kyle gave a whistle of appreciation. Jared pulled him along to the master bathroom that was connected. There was a walk in shower and a jacuzzi tub next to it. There were two sinks as well.
After some more exploring the two ended up back in the living room.
"I still can't believe you did this!" Kyle said as they looked around the spacious living room and dining room and kitchen. It was a big open space and he had so many ideas.
"I know, but we can't live in that apartment forever. The girl's need their own rooms," Jared said, walking up to the blonde.
"Yes and the pool put back isn't too bad," Kyle said.
"That's definitely a plus," Jared said.
"There's definitely room for all of us here," Kyle said looking around. This should scare him. He wasn't even eighteen, yet, here he was ready to build a life with Jared.
"Us?" Jared asked.
"You gave me a key, no take backs," Kyle said, quickly turning to face the older man. He grinned as he walked up to him.
"Never," Jared said.
"Good, cause I wasn't giving it back," Kyle said. He pulled Jared in for a slow tender kiss that spoke volumes.
Kyle thought back to the moment that he and Miles had shared. Miles had kissed him. In all his confusion maybe he was trying to figure something out. Kyle hadn't exactly hated the kiss either.
"Why are you so amazing?" Jared asked as he rested his forehead on Kyle's as he brought him back to this moment. He looked up at the blonde with nothing but pure adoration.
Kyle felt guilty for what had happened earlier, but Miles had instigated it. It was probably just him experimenting. It had probably meant nothing at all. It was Miles being Miles.
"I'm really not," Kyle said softly.
"Yes you are, you gotta stop being so down on yourself," Jared replied
Kyle took a step back with a smile. "Dance with me?"
"What?" Jared asked confused.
"Dance with me," Kyle said simply. He held a hand out to Jared. Jared smiled as he took his hand and pulled him close. Kyle started humming softly.
Jared grinned and pressed his face into Kyle's shoulder, trying to surprise his giggles. Kyle swayed them to his own beat. The rest of the world melted away. All that mattered right now was Jared.
Kyle's hums turned to singing. "I'm thinking 'bout how people fall in love in mysterious ways, maybe just the touch of a hand, well me, I fall in love with you every single day, and I just wanna tell you I am."
Jared lifted his head, a soft smile playing across his face. This moment here was perfect. Kyle couldn't be any happier than he was in this single moment.
"So, honey, now," Jared sang softly. "Take me into your loving arms. Kiss me under the light of a thousand stars. Place your head on my beating heart. I'm thinking out loud, maybe we found love right where we are."
Kyle spun Jared out and pulled him close. Jared ended up with his back to Kyle. Kyle's hands slithered down to his hips. He made Jared sway with him as he continued to sing. Jared melted right into the younger man. They moved in rhythm with each other. He wasn't sure how long they stayed like that.
They could have continued on like this all night, had his cellphone not started ringing.
Kyle apologized as he dug his phone from his pocket. Leora was calling him. "It's Le, no doubt wondering where we are."
"And just like that reality sets back in," Jared sighed, taking a step away from the blonde.
"Sorry," Kyle said as he answered his phone.
"I suppose we should get back to the palm woods," Jared said.
—Happy Mistakes—
Kendall yawned as he placed Jenny in her crib. Adam and Cooper had just dropped her off. She had been passed out for quite awhile according to Adam.
Kendall and James had been home for almost an hour when they showed up. So far the only ones unaccounted for were Noah and Roldy, and Jake, Damien, Matt, and Penelope. Everyone else had made it home already.
Kendall made his way downstairs. James was standing in the hallway with Jake. He arched a brow as he walked up to them.
"Jake is looking for a ride home since they have your SUV," James said.
"Want me to-" Kendall started.
"No, I got it. You drove almost all day," James said.
"Ok, I will go to-" Kendall started.
"Relax, we don't have to unpack everything just yet," James said.
"Ok I'll relax," Kendall replied.
James turned to Jake and told him to get going.
"You know he's gonna have everything unpacked when you get back," Jake said as he walked out the door.
"Let me have my delusions," James said, giving his son a playful shove out the door. "One of these days he might do as I say."
"Keep on dreaming," Kendall and Jake said in unison. Jake laughed as he walked away.
Kendall watched the door slip shut a smile playing across his face. It was the mundane moments like this that he lived for. The playful banter they had with their kids and each other.
Kendall glanced at the suitcases sitting by the door. They would be there tomorrow. He turned and headed back upstairs. He passed Leora's room on the way. She was on her phone. He paused in the doorway. He opened his mouth to speak as he leaned against the frame.
"I won't stay up too late," Leora said without looking up. "I know I've got school tomorrow."
"Ok then," Kendall said, pushing himself off the door. "Have I told you that you're the good one?"
"All the time, but it's nice to hear it," Leora said with a smile.
"Something wrong?" Kendall asked.
"Can I be honest?" Leora asked, setting her phone aside. She sat up on her bed.
Kendall entered the room and sat down beside her.
"I always want you to be honest with me," Kendall said, "I know I don't make it easy, but I want the beat for you and your brothers. I just...I promise not to over react as bad as I have in the past."
Leora laughed at that. "It's nothing like that, it's just some kids at school."
"Do I need to send Kyle to kick some ass," Kendall asked.
Leora laughed again and shook her head. "It's just they all keep making comments about when am I gonna pop a kid out. All my brothers have, they call it the family curse." She looked down at the floor.
"What?" Kendall asked, "who? When did this start. I'll go down to the school tomorrow-"
"You're overreacting again," Leora said.
"Sorry," Kendall apologized. "Seriously, if you need me to go talk to the principal I will.
"No, it's...it's died down since after everything with Kyle and Lilly went down," Leora said, "it just...it makes me dread school a little, but also I know for a fact that I am not ready for a kid, and I am not gonna have one any time soon. I just wanna find a way to stick it to those jerks."
"You wanna know the best way to do that?" Kendall asked.
"Is this gonna be another one of your speeches," Leora asked.
"Maybe," Kendall chuckled. "The best way to stick it to them is to prove them wrong. You gotta ignore the haters. They are always gonna be there no matter what you do. Given who your dads and brothers are there will always be people watching your every move. I want you to hold your head high and walk across the stage this spring and prove them all wrong. You are the only one in charge of your life not them. Let them talk, they don't know anything."
"Thanks dad," Leora said, smiling up at him. She leaned over and hugged him.
"No problem kid," Kendall said smiling. He felt a tug at his heart. He knew these moments weren't going to happen for very much longer. She was graduating school in a few months, and then hopefully off to college.
"I won't stay up late I promise. Layla was just texting me telling me we need to throw Lilly a going away party," Leora said.
"She's leaving soon isn't she," Kendall said thoughtfully.
"Yeah, in like two and half weeks," Leora said.
"If you need any help let me know," Kendall said standing up.
"I will thanks," Leora said smiling.
Kendall left her room as Kyle walked up the stairs. Kendall arched a brow at him confused. He hadn't really expected Kyle to be home tonight.
"What?" Kyle asked, confused.
"Nothing," Kendall said, shaking his head. "Don't-"
"Don't Stay up too late there is school in the morning," Kyle said walking past Kendall to his room. "I know the drill dad."
"Good," Kendall said.
A knock at the door caught their attention. Kyle raced down the stairs with Kendall following him. Kyle answered the door and Jared entered the house.
"Miss me that much? I just left not that long ago," Kyle said.
"CPS came and took Jill and Carly," Jared said, shoving some papers at Kyle.
"What?" Kyle asked looking down at the papers. He scanned them quickly with a frown.
"Yeah apparently I've been keeping them from school and not taking care of them properly," Jared snapped.
"This is a load of bull, we were literally trapped in a cabin for like five days," Kyle said.
"Calm down," Kendall said stepping in between the two. He turned to Jared. "Did you call your lawyer."
"It's Sunday night," Jared reminded Kendall, "no I didn't call. I panicked and came here."
"Call and leave a message," Kendall said.
Jared nodded his head and pulled his phone out. Kendall turned to Kyle and held his hand out. Kyle handed the papers over. Kendall looked them over. Jared paced back and forth down the hallway as he made the phone call. Once he hung up, Kendall ushered the two to the living room.
"What happened?" Kendall asked.
"Someone called in and told them that the girls hadn't been to school all week. I called the school everyday and kept them updated on the situation. They assured me everything was fine and to keep them in the loop," Jared said.
"I can confirm he called, it was like the first thing he did every morning after breakfast," Kyle piped in.
"Anyways as soon as Kyle left, like maybe five minutes a social worker showed up and told me that Jill and Carly had to come with her. She wouldn't listen to me. She was adamant that she had to take them and that I should take it up with the judge on Monday," Jared said, shaking his head.
"What did she say?" Kendall asked.
"She said that the girls had missed too much school. That I wasn't fulfilling my job as their legal guardian by not bringing them to school," Jared said shaking her head. "I told her everything about the storm and how we got stranded. She wouldn't hear any of it. She told me she had a job and that there was nothing she could do, the girls had to leave."
"That's a load of bull, we were literally trapped due to unexpected weather," Kyle said.
"We will figure this out," Kendall assured Jared.
"I hope so," Jared sighed.
"Wanna stay here tonight? I'm sure Noah and Ro won't be home for awhile," Kyle asked.
"Stay, I'll help you in the morning ok," Kendall said, "door stays open and don't stay up too late. You have school," he said to Kyle.
"I know," Kyle said standing up. He held a hand out to Jared. He led him from the room.
Kendal fell back in his seat as James arrived home. He entered the living room asking about Jared's car out front. Kendal sighed and shared the news with him.
"Again, he can't catch a break can he," James asked.
"Doesn't seem like it," Kendall said, "Anyways they are upstairs right now. I told Jared to stay I didn't want him home alone right now."
"Smart, did you-?" James started.
"Yes I told them doors open and not to stay up too late," Kendall cut him off. "Like I said before, we have to pretend we have some control over the situation."
James kidded his head in agreement. Kendall stood from his spot and moved to sit beside James. He leaned over and rested his head on his shoulder.
"I love you," Kendall said smiling up at the brunette. James smiles at that. Kendall looked up and pecked his chin. James chuckled and turned his head towards the blonde ready to speak, but Kendall cut him off with a kiss on the lips.
"I love you too," James said once Kendall returned his head to his shoulder.
They sat in silence for a moment, both deep in thought. Kendall was going to help Jared. They had spent the last week with the girls getting to know them and he was attached. He wondered what was on James' mind.
"We are gonna help Jared right?" James asked as if he had read Kendall's mind.
"Of course," Kendall replied.
