Chapter 30: Distractions
Leora yawned as she made her way down to the kitchen. It was Saturday. Not just any Saturday though, it was hers and Kyle's eighteenth birthday. It was still pretty early in the morning, but she had to get a head start on the pancakes. James would be up soon to help. She had passed Kyle's room on the way down and he was passed out still. She didn't expect him any time soon.
She entered the kitchen and pushed when she saw Kyle moving around the kitchen already getting things set up. Her jaw dropped slightly. She had been sure he was in his room.
"Morning Le, about time you got up," Kyle said smiling at her.
"Weren't you just in bed?" Leora asked.
"That's Jared, I've been up for a little while and decided to get started on breakfast. I also went and bought those fake meat sausages for Jake since he's trying the whole vegetarian/vegan thing," Kyle said pointing to a bag on the counter.
"How thoughtful of you," Leora laughed.
"I know right," Kyle replied.
"Since when are you a morning person?" Leora asked as she joined him in getting things ready.
"Ever since I had to get Jill and Carly fed before school. It's a habit that I've kept," Kyle replied.
"Oh right," Leora said.
"Let's get these pancakes made," Kyle said.
The pair started cooking. They chatted as they got everything prepared. Kyle put on a pot of coffee knowing James would be up soon and he needed his caffeine before he did anything.
"So what do they have planned?" Leora asked, as she mixed the pancake batter.
"No idea, probably dinner with the family. I suspect Grandma Brooke will be here. You know she can't miss anything of yours," Kyle replied.
"She comes for you guys," Leora said.
"Yeah, but you are her first granddaughter. She spoils you." Kyle pointed out.
"Yeah, but we're twins," Leora said pointing the whisk at Kyle.
"But I'm not a girl," Kyle said, lowering her hand back to the bowl so she didn't splatter him with batter.
"What are you two arguing about so early?" James asked as he walked into the kitchen. He made a beeline for the coffee pot.
"How grandma Brooke spoils Leora," Kyle said.
"She does not," Leora said.
"Yeah she does," James said.
"Told you," Kyle said pointing a finger at Leora.
"What are you doing up so early," James asked Kyle.
"Couldn't sleep, so I figured I would come help, I even beat you this morning," Kyle said.
"So that's Jared up in your room then?" James asked.
"Yeah, figured it would be easier to have him come with me rather than take both cars," Kyle said with a shrug.
"Sounds smart, but since when are you a morning person?" James asked.
"Since I had to be, to get Jill and Carly to school and still get to my school on time. Plus I had to feed them in the morning and I've learned mornings are better for me to cram before a test as I remember more," Kyle said.
"Ok then," James said.
"Pancake batter is ready," Leora announced.
"Ok I've got the bacon and sausage, and whatever this crap is," Kyle said looking at the vegan sausage.
"What is that?" James asked.
"Vegan stuff for Jake. I'm a nice brother and I support his choice to not eat meat, not that I understand it. Like I could never give up bacon," Kyle said.
"Same," Leora said laughing.
"Is Jake coming?" James asked.
"He said he would yesterday. It's tradition," Kyle said.
"I know, but with Damien not awake yet I wasn't sure," James said.
The three set about cooking breakfast. Leora started on the pancakes while James started getting the toppings ready. Kyle worked on cooking the meats and fake meat. Kyle also texted Jake and Adam about coming for breakfast. Jake replied that he was on his way, but Adam didn't answer.
Eventually Jared made his way down stairs. He toon headed straight for coffee, being sure to smile as he said good morning to Leora and James, Kyle received a glare since he had rudely woken him up too early.
"Good morning grumpy," Kyle said, poking him in the side.
"I wouldn't be grumpy if you didn't wake me up at the ass crack of dawn," Jared said.
"Ass crack of dawn?" James asked.
"The sun was barely up when he woke me up," Jared said.
"He's having trouble accepting the fact that I'm an adult and I get up in the mornings now," Kyle said.
"You're hardly an adult," Jared replied.
"Yeah, we are eighteen now don't you know," Leora said, nudging Jared lightly. Jared laughed and shook his head.
"Oh my god you're both eighteen," James said slowly, as if he had just realized it.
"Yeah, all day," Kyle laughed.
"I can't believe it, you two are all grown up," James said, shaking his head. He still didn't want to believe that they were eighteen.
"Well believe it," Leora said smiling, "eighteen years has finally passed and we are legal adults in the eyes of the government."
"Are we mentally there?" Kyle asked, tapping his head. " That's questionable," he said, shaking his hand in an iffy motion, causing everyone to laugh.
The four continued making breakfast while chatting and laughing. Jared joined James in preparing the fruits and other toppings. Adam and Cooper were next to arrive with Miri and Kenny. Miri ran right to Kyle. Jared took over cooking, so Kyle could spend time with her. Miri loved Kyle, he was always the first one she ran to when she arrived. Leora ran over to Kenny as James took over pancake duty for her.
"She's got you wrapped around her finger huh?" Adam asked as Kyle gave Miri some fruit he swiped from James.
"Maybe, but you can't not love her when she gives you those eyes," Kyle said.
"True," Adam said.
"She's cute and she knows it," Cooper said, "Happy Birthday by the way."
"Thanks," Kyle and Leora said together. They quickly jinxed the other.
The front door slammed and everyone turned as Miles entered the kitchen.
"Am I too late?" Miles asked.
"No we are still waiting on Jake and dad isn't up yet," Kyle said as Kendall entered the kitchen. He was only mildly surprised to see Miles.
"James did you wake up Jenny already?" Kendall asked.
"No," James said, shaking his head.
"Ok, I will go find her then," Kendall said, turning around.
"Find her?" James asked as he took off after Kendall. Adam jumped in on pancake duty.
"She's lost?" Adam asked.
"She's hiding in her stuffie pile," Leora said waving a hand. "She's been doing that ever since they upgraded her to a toddler bed."
"Ever since we got Miri a toddler bed, she climbs into bed with us, and someone let's her sleep there and now she has a bad habit and won't sleep in her own room," Cooper said shooting a playful glare at Adam.
"You can't say no to this face," Kyle cut in, as he gently pinched Miri's cheek making her laugh.
"Exactly," Adam said.
Everyone settled into mindless chatter and laughter. So far this morning was shaping up to be good. Several minutes later Kendall and James returned with Jenny.
"Was she hiding in her stuffie pile?" Leora asked.
"Yes," James said.
"She thinks it's funny," Kendall said, shaking his head.
"Who are we waiting for?" James asked looking around the kitchen.
"Probably me," Jake said as he entered the kitchen with Eli.
Leora quickly handed off Kenny to Kendall and ran over to Jake taking Eli with a smile. Leora day down next to Kyle. Kyle leaned over and greeted him.
"No," Miri said, grabbing Kyle's face and pulling it to her. "Me." She pressed her forehead to his.
"Someone's jealous," Leora laughed.
"Don't worry Miri-Bear, I still love you," Kyle cooed at her. She smiled and hugged him tight.
"My Ky," she said.
"Better watch out Jared, you've got some competition," Adam joked.
"You can't say no to that face," Jared said pointing at Miri, causing the others to laugh. Miri just grinned knowing she got her way.
"So how's Damien doing?" Kendall asked Jake as they set the table.
"Good, He's stable, he woke up for a little while last night in so much pain, but the pain meds they gave him knocked him right out again. He's not fully aware of anything yet," Jake sighed.
"Can I just say," Kyle said, putting a hand up. "As someone who's been in a medically induced coma, he will wake up when he's ready. His body is healing and it needs time. I've been there it sucks waking up in so much pain and not knowing why," he said.
"I know he needs time, but sitting with Steve or Camille is so awkward right now," Jake said.
"I know it's weird," Adam agreed.
"Ok change of subject please. Jake, I'm worried about Damien too, but he will get better soon," Leora said. She didn't like talking about this whole situation with Camille, Steve, and Logan. She hated the drama of it all.
Once the food was finished cooking and everyone had a plate full of pancakes and sausage or bacon they all sat around the table talking and laughing. Mostly sharing stories of Kyle and Leora, since it was their birthday.
Once everyone was finished Kyle and Leora started to clean up. Jared and Adam jumped up grabbing Miri and Kenny. Adam handed off Miri to Kyle and Jared gave Kenny to Leora.
"Nope, it's your birthday, go relax we got this," Adam said.
"Fine, let's go play Miri," Kyle said.
Miri cheered and clapped her hands. Leora followed them out of the kitchen. Adam and Jared shooed the others out as well. They set about cleaning while the others relaxed.
"So, are Jill and Carly coming tonight?" Adam asked as they worked.
"Like they would miss this," Jared replied, with a chuckle. "They have been counting down the days with Kyle."
"It sucks that you lost custody," Adam said.
"Yeah, but realistically this is the best thing for them. Deanna knows them and would never keep them from me. She raised me and Ro and we turned out ok-ish. She's also got a stable job and home whereas I could have to leave town on a moment's notice," Jared said.
"Sounds rough," Adam said.
"It can be," Jared nodded his head.
"So how's boot camp going?" Adam asked, changing the subject. They started loading the dishwasher.
"I think your dad is trying to kill us," Jared said seriously. Adam laughed and shook his head. "No serious, he's a dictator and Kyle is worse. He's taken over our choreography and he's amazing at it and your dad all but gave him the job after Jenna got injured and had to take time off. Kyle expects us to get it all down in like five second and then Roldy has two left feet and so we have to work even harder to compensate for that. It's bad."
"Wow, where does Kyle find time in the day to do it all?" Adam asked
"I don't know, he's up early and goes to bed late. He's working himself to the bone and I'm a little worried about him," Jared admitted.
"Have you talked-" Adam started.
"I've talked to both your dads and we are keeping an eye on him," Jared cut him off, nodding his head.
"Have you talked to him?" Adam asked.
"I tell him all the time to stop overdoing it and to relax. Since we don't have Jill and Carly with us, I thought he might relax a little, but it seems like he's gotten worse," Jared said shaking his head.
"Has he seen anyone about what happened with the baby?" Adam asked.
"No, he refuses," Jared said.
"Maybe he needs to see someone. He's still grieving, it takes time. After my miscarriage I went to a counselor. It really helped," Adam said.
"He won't, I've tried," Jared said.
"Let me talk to him," Adam said.
"Please don't, then he will think I've been telling everyone and get mad at me," Jared said.
"Or he might get the help he needs," Adam said.
"Are you new? Have you met Kyle? He is just as stubborn as your dad. He won't admit something is wrong until it's too late," Jared said.
"Yeah, you're right," Adam said nodding his head, "but we have to do something."
"I know, I don't know what to do," Jared sighed.
They finished loading the dishwasher. Adam got a rag and started to wipe down the counters, as Jared hung back. They continued talking about Kyle.
"It's ok to ask for help, maybe we all need to get together and sit down with him," Adam suggested.
"Trust me that will only drive him over the edge. It won't help," Jared said.
"I think I know my brother," Adam said waving his rag at Jared.
"Not like I do, no offense but you're not around him as much as I am. He's changing and getting snarkier. I know if we all come at him he will feel attacked and close himself off from all of us," Jared said.
"Kyle's not-" Adam started.
"Yeah he is, ever since his accident last year, he's become very guarded and defensive," Jared said, "you gotta trust me when I say your dads and I are handling this."
"Ok," Adam said nodding his head, "I trust you."
"Thanks, that means a lot," Jared said, "you are way easier to talk to than Jake."
"Did he ever apologize?" Adam asked as he tossed his rag on the back of the sink.
"No, and I won't get my hopes up," Jared replied, "I think he's too preoccupied with Damien to even notice me today. There was no snide comment about me being here this morning. Maybe he's finally starting to accept that I'm not going anywhere as long as Kyle wants me around."
"Yeah it took him awhile to get there with Coop too," Adam said as he leaned against the counter.
"I thought they were friends before you two got together," Jared said.
"Yes, but Coop and broke up once and it was bad. Coop avoided me and Miri. It was hard, but then I did the same thing not long after that. We had a lot of problems," Adam said slowly.
"But you both worked through them on your own and became stronger because of it, right?" Jared asked.
"Yes," Adam said.
"See, Jake needs to understand that Kyle and I may have our issues, but they are ours and we are working them out," Jared said.
"Exactly," Adam said nodding his head.
"Brothers are awesome aren't they," Jared asked.
"Can't live with them, can't live without them either," Adam said. Jared laughed and nodded his head.
"There are days I wanna strangle Carter and Jackie and others where I would die for them," Jared agreed.
"Same," Adam said.
"Think we should get out there before Kyle gets suspicious of us and comes snooping," Jared asked as he pushed himself off the counter.
"Yeah," Adam said. The two left the kitchen together and headed to the living room.
Kyle and Miles were on the floor playing with Jenny and Miri. Leora was sitting with Kenny playing with him. Kendall and James were cooing over Eli. Jake and Cooper were sitting together talking. Everyone was relaxed. Adam joined Cooper and Jared took the vacant chair beside Leora and Kenny.
Leora leaned over to Jared. He arched a brow at her in question.
"Did you?" She asked quietly.
"Not yet, I need to snag his keys, and her flight doesn't land for an hour away," Jared replied quietly.
"Hold on," Leora said, jumping up.
She ran over to Kendall and deposited Kenny into his lap. She leaned over and whispered in his ear. Kendall glanced over at Jared and nodded his head. She gave Kendall a hug and ran over to Jared. She pulled him to his feet.
"Let's go," she said, leading him from the room.
"Where are you two going?" Kyle asked, stopping them in their tracks.
"I need Jared's help," Leora said.
"With what?" Kyle asked, confused.
"It's a secret," Leora said, grabbing Jared's hand again. She led him out to the hallway. She snatched Kendall's car keys.
"Hey," Kyle said walking down the hallway towards them
"We will be back don't worry," Leora said. Kyle looked to Jared confused.
"Leora needs my help with something," Jared said as he walked up to him. He gave him a peck on the lips. "I'll be back later."
"But where are you going?" Kyle asked.
"It's a surprise," Jared said.
"Fine, keep your secrets then," Kyle said.
"Why are you being so needy right now. You didn't even notice me when you were playing with Miri," Jared chuckled.
"I'm not being needy," Kyle pouted.
"Yeah you are," Leora laughed.
"Hey Kyle."
Kyle turned as Jake walked down the hallway towards them.
"What's up?" Kyle asked.
"Can I talk to you?" Jake asked.
"About what?" Kyle asked.
"Alone," Jake said, glancing at Leora and Jared.
"Am I in trouble?" Kyle asked slowly.
"Do I look like dad?" Jake asked.
"No, you look like pops," Kyle replied without missing a beat. "I'm the one who looks like dad."
"You act just like him, too smart ass," Jake replied.
"I think that's our cue to leave," Leora said to Jared. Jared just nodded his head in agreement.
The front door opened catching their attention. Logan rushed in and paused as he looked at them shocked.
"Where's Kendall?" he asked.
"Living room," Leora replied.
"If Carlos shows up, I'm not here," Logan said as Kendall exited the living room.
"This better be important," Kendall said.
"It is," Logan said as he grabbed Kendall's arm and pulled him away from the kids.
"That was weird," Kyle said slowly.
"I'm gonna head to the hospital for a bit, Kyle I need to talk to you first," Jake said.
"Fine, I'll walk you to your car," Kyle said sensing that Jake wasn't going to give up.
"Is it bad that I wanna snoop?" Jared asked, looking at the door where Kyle and Jake had disappeared.
"No cause I'm curious too," Leora said looking in the direction of Kendall and Logan.
"Jake never wants to talk to Kyle," Jared said slowly.
"Logan was acting odd," Leora said slowly.
"Come on we have to go," Jared said, shaking his head.
The two exited the house together. They looked to the road where Kyle was leaning against Jake's car as Jake got into the driver's seat. They were talking quietly. Once Kyle noticed the other two he stood up straight and said a quick goodbye to Jake. He walked over to them as they got into Kendall's SUV, where Jared and Leora were getting in.
"What was that?" Leora asked.
"Jake wanted to talk," Kyle said leaning against Jared's open window.
"Right and Leroa and I have to go, we will be back in a little while," Jared said, "now go play with Miri, I'm sure she's mad that I stole you away from her." Kyle laughed and nodded his head.
"Still not gonna tell me where you are going?" Kyle asked.
"To get your birthday present, let it be a surprise," Jared said. Kyle threw his hands up in surrender. He leaned in and pecked Jared on the cheek.
"Ew, my eyes are melting," Leora teased.
"Maybe you should drive," Kyle joked as he looked at Jared. Jared laughed at that. Kyle turned and headed inside.
—Happy Mistakes—
Carlos entered the Knights house and made a beeline for the living room. He saw James, Adam, Cooper sitting on the couch chatting, Kyle and Miles playing with the kids on the floor. He gave James a look that made him jump up.
"James-" he started.
"Carlos calm down," James said as he led the Latino away from the kids. He steered him to the kitchen. "Logan is not that stupid."
"I never said that he was," Carlos said, "but he could lose his job over this."
"He would never put his job in jeopardy," James assured him.
"James this isn't-" Carlos started.
"Carlos."
Carlos whipped around as Kendall entered the kitchen. Carlos looked past him to glare at Logan. Logan didn't seem sorry at all.
"You're gonna lose your job if you're not careful," Carlos hissed.
"Look I don't know why you're freaking out, it could have happened to anyone," Logan replied,
"What happened exactly?" James asked.
"The hospital over works me. I made a med error and Damien woke up last night, briefly but they sedated him again pretty quickly," Logan replied, "I didn't do it on purpose. It was a miscalculation on my part."
"Oh please, you've been anxious for him to wake up," Carlos said.
"Yeah, I have, but I would never purposely make an error like that. He's gotta be in a lot of pain. I'd rather he take a few more days to heal. I am only human. I make mistakes too," Logan said defensively.
"Do you have any idea how suspicious this is gonna look?" Carlos asked.
"I know that, but it was a mistake. That's all there is to it. At least I own up to it and don't keep secrets," Logan said.
"What are you talking about?" Carlos asked.
"You didn't tell him?" James asked.
"No, not yet," Logan admitted.
"What?" Carlos asked, confused.
"The night of the accident, you told us that you knew about Damien a long time ago," Logan said.
Carlos' jaw dropped and floundered for a moment. He didn't remember that. Why didn't he remember that.
"You were high on pain meds and concussed," Logan said.
"Ok look Camille and I made a deal. I wouldn't spill her secret if she kept mine," Carlos said.
"What secret did you have?" Logan asked.
"I-I-" Carlos said slowly. "It was after we lost Lucas and she and Steve moved back. The kids were with Mrs. Knight and Katie. We were out drinking and…"
"Carlos," Logan said.
"It was an accident that I got pregnant with Layla, not on my part at least," Carlos admitted. Logan's jaw dropped this time. "I'm not proud of it, but I was desperate and you wouldn't budge on having another kid."
"This is getting awkward," James said as he shifted where he stood. He looked to Kendall for help. Kendall seemed as lost as he was.
"You should have told me," Logan said, "he was my son and I never knew."
"By the time she told me it was too late. He was growing up and she didn't want to ruin things. It would just confuse him, and we had Lilly to worry about and the whole Lucas situation. It was better this way, I honestly put it to the back of my mind and forgot all about it," Carlos said looking at the ground.
"That was not your decision to make Carlos," Logan said angrily.
"What would you have done? Taken him from her? She knew it would screw everything up. It was an awful thing she did, but it wasn't my place to tell anyone," Carlos said.
"Not your place? You're my husband. This is the one thing you were supposed to tell me," Logan snapped.
"Tell you what? That oh by the way you have a son with Camille, she lied to you, how was I supposed to slip that into a conversation?" Carlos asked.
"This isn't a secret that you keep from your husband. If one of your ex's told me that they had your baby, I would have told you right away, no matter what they said," Logan said.
"Ok, I messed up, I know that, but we can't change things now," Carlos said.
"Guys," Kendall cut in. The pair stopped and looked at him shocked, almost as if they had forgotten they weren't alone.
Logan's phone rang breaking the silence. He answered it as James slapped a hand over Carlos' mouth to keep him quiet. Logan answered his phone, shooting Carlos a look. He remained silent.
"This is," Logan said nodding his head. "Yes, he was. Yeah. Yeah. I know. What happened?" He paused as he listened to the other person on the phone. He nodded his head as he agreed a couple times with the person on the other end of the phone. "Ok, I'll be there as soon as I can." He hung up and looked confused.
"They think Dr. Jacobi made the med error," Logan said slowly.
"Your boss?" Kendall asked. Logan nodded his head slowly.
"Why would-" Carlos started.
"I have to go," Logan said as his phone rang again. He looked down confused. He answered it. "Yeah they already called. What did you do?" He paused as he listened. He nodded his head even though they couldn't see him. He started pacing a little as he listened. "That's...that's what happened I guess," he said slowly.
"What's going on?" Carlos whispered. Logan held a hand up to him. Carlos did not like that. He glared at him, which Logan met with his own. The two stood there glaring at one another as Logan talked.
"Yeah they want me to come in," Logan said, I'll be there soon." He hung up. He turned to Kendall. "Dr. Jacobi told the other staff I was working under his direction and he told me the incorrect dose by mistake. He's taking the fall for my mistake." He explained.
"What?" Carlos asked shocked. "You can't let him do that."
"He already did it Carlos. If I go against him we could both lose our jobs," Logan said, "I have to go. I'll be back for the party though." He said to Kendall. He took off before Carlos could say anything.
The three stood there in silence. None of them knew what to say next. Adam entered the kitchen with an empty bottle and a can of formula.
"Are you done? I need to make a bottle for Eli," Adam said as he crossed the room to the sink.
"You heard us?" Carlos asked, embarrassed.
"Yeah, all the yelling triggered Miles too. He took off," Adam said nodding his head. "Kyle followed him. He's taking care of it." Once he finished making the bottle he left.
"Carlos," James said.
"I fucked up this time," Carlos said, shaking his head. He sat down at the table.
James sat down beside him, unsure of what to say. He looked up to Kendall who only shrugged. James placed a hand on his arm.
"I know what I did was wrong, but I didn't know how to tell him. I tried at first, but like….I just couldn't bring myself to do it. I didn't want to ruin what we had," Carlos said, hanging his head. "I think this might actually be the end of our marriage."
Kendall and James shared a look. Neither of them knew what to say. There wasn't anything they could do here, this was between Carlos and Logan. This was bigger than anything they had faced before.
—Happy Mistakes—
Kyle made his way upstairs after Miles. All the yelling in the kitchen had triggered him. It caused a panic attack. Something Kyle hadn't seen from Miles. He entered his bedroom and shut the door behind him, locking it.
"Dude," Kyle said, walking over to the bed. He sat down beside Miles who was laying sideways across the bed, his legs hanging over the edge.
"I don't do panic attacks. That's your thing," Miles said looking up at the ceiling.
"I don't exclusively own them, you can have them too," Kyle chuckled.
"I don't know what happened. All the yelling just reminded me of them," Miles sighed.
"Yeah, I figured," Kyle said, laying down beside Miles.
"I thought I was over all this crap," Miles said, swinging his arms towards the ceiling.
"It's called a trigger for a reason dude," Kyle chuckled. He grabbed Miles hand and brought it down to his side. He held it trying to calm smiles down.
"It sucks," Miles said, "like I know they would never take it out on me, but all the yelling just brought me back. He would always come after me when she left. I had to hide," he said.
"Dude you don't have to worry they are both long gone. No one is ever going to hurt you like that again, not if I have anything to say about it," Kyle said frowning.
"I know but...like….I just...," Miles said, swinging his arms up at the ceiling again. He could not articulate this feeling.
"I wish I knew how to help," Kyle said, scooting closer to Miles.
"Just being here is enough," Miles said, turning back to him. "Just you being you makes it better. You're my best friend, you don't need to say anything."
"I will never let anyone hurt you again," Kyle said.
"Thanks," Miles said smiling at him. He sat up as he fought the urge to just lean in and kiss Kyle. He knew this was the time for that.
Kyle sat up as well. They were sitting so close that their knees bumped one another. They sat in comfortable silence for a moment.
"So…" Kyle said, drawing the word out. Miles arched a brow in silent questioning. "Wanna play some video games?"
"Always and I'll kick your ass," Miles said jumping up. He ran across the room and grabbed two controllers. He turned the game on and tossed a controller to Kyle.
"You're mistaken if you think you can beat me," Kyle said as Miles joined him on his bed.
Miles quickly selected a fighting game. A few rounds of trash talk later the two grew bored and tossed their controllers aside. They ended with Miles beating Kyle with ten wins to Kyle's 5 wins.
Kyle put on YouTube for background noise. They weren't really paying much mind to the videos.
"Thanks for the distraction dude," Miles said.
"I will always be your distraction," Kyle replied.
"So where did Jared go?" Miles asked.
"Don't know he would tell me," Kyle replied with a shrug.
"What did Jake want?" Miles asked.
"To talk," Kyle said looking away from Miles.
"Gonna elaborate?" Miles asked.
"About my sudden weight loss again," Kyle said, frowning. "I lose a few pounds and suddenly everyone thinks I have an eating problem."
"Dude you lost a lot of weight in like three months, plus you were a little underweight before," Miles said.
"I know, but I haven't changed much about my diet. Did you not see the huge stack of pancakes I ate this morning?" Kyle said.
"I know, but like you lost a lot of weight. Like I couldn't even fit your pants for the wedding. We've always been able to swap clothes," Miles said.
"I know, and I don't know why I'm losing so much weight. I've actually been trying to put on weight and it seems the harder I try to gain and the more I lose," Kyle said shaking his head.
"You are literally the opposite over the entire world," Miles replied with a chuckle.
"It's not all it's cracked up to be," Kyle said as he stood up. He walked over to the mirror that was on his wall. Leora has insisted that they all get their own mirrors in their rooms once she hit her makeup phase. This way she could hog the bathroom, but the boys could still get ready.
"What do you mean?" Miles asked.
"I'm talking about all the people who seem to think they know everything about me," Kyle said pulling his shirt so it was skintight. He stood sideways in the mirror. There was no denying he had lost a lot of weight. "Like, 'Do you starve yourself or do you binge and purge?' Or 'You look sick.' or my favorite, 'you're too skinny you need to eat more. Maybe people will like you better.'"
"Dude," Miles said, jumping up.
"It doesn't bother me really," Kyle said letting go of his shirt. He turned away from the mirror. "I've learned a long time ago to ignore the haters."
"But what about your family," Miles asked.
"If they notice maybe it's a bit more than I thought," Kyle admitted, "but like I said I haven't changed anything about my diet or my exercise."
"Well there was-" Miles started.
"But I'm done with that," Kyle cut him off with a glare. Miles put his hands up. "Sorry, I just...Jake asked the same thing." He said slowly.
"Jake knew about it?" Miles asked.
"It kinda slipped out when we were talking a while back, but like I told him and I'm telling you again, I am done with that," Kyle said.
"Good, I'll kick your ass if you ever do that again," Miles said.
"I know," Kyle said, "I'll let you."
"We are on the same page then," Miles said.
-Happy Mistakes-
Jared sighed as he checked the time again. Leora was sitting beside him busy texting on her phone. She wasn't as restless as him.
"How much longer?" Jared asked.
"She said her flight would be landing soon," Leora said.
"She was supposed to be here like an hour ago," Jared said.
"Flights get delayed, relax, you of all people should know that popstar," Leora chuckled.
"I know, but still, I told Kyle I would be back soon, he keeps texting me asking where I am," Jared said.
"Just ignore him. He's gonna love this surprise," Leora said, waving a hand at him. "This was a good idea."
"If she ever shows up," Jared mumbled.
He sighed as he looked down at his phone again. He needed to distract himself so that the time would go by faster. He started to play a game while Leora kept texting whoever she was texting.
"So," Leora said after awhile.
"What?" Jared asked.
"How's Kyle been lately?" she asked bluntly.
"You too?" Jared asked.
"What do you mean?" Leora asked.
"Adam already interrogated me this morning and I'll tell you what I told him. I know Kyle is losing weight, but he literally hasn't changed his eating habits. I know he's been a bit closed off and I've tried talking to him about Sophie but he clams up, I have talked to your dads and they are keeping an eye on him too. We can't approach him because he will get fighty and run away," Jared said.
"But-" Leora started.
"You've got to trust me Leora, we are doing all we can without pushing him til he closes off,"
"Good," Leora said.
"So how are you," Jared asked, trying to make small talk.
"I'm great, I won a contest in school for my writing," Leora said excitedly. "Part of me wonders if it's because of my name though."
"Kyle has shown me a couple of your short stories Le, they are pretty good," Jared said.
"What? He showed you?" Leora asked, her eyes going wide.
"The ones that got published," Jared said.
"Oh," Leora said relieved.
"You've got talent Leora, don't doubt yourself. If you're worried about your name, use a pseudonym," Jared said.
"That's not a bad idea," Leora said slowly. She smiled at him. "Thanks."
"Oh my god Leora!"
Leora jumped up as her name was shouted. She threw her arms around the blonde haired girl that ran up to them.
"Jay!"
Once the two parted, Jayda greeted Jared more somberly. He smiled and greeted her.
"I can't believe you made time for this," Leora said.
"I can miss my boy's birthday, especially since I missed my other boy's big day," Jayda said.
"Miles is gonna be mad," Leora said.
"I apologized to him. I was stuck in Paris. I sent him a gift," Jayda said.
"There's our beautiful cover girl, has it been everything you ever dreamed it would be?" Jared asked.
"It's a lot of hard work," Jayda replied, "but so worth it."
The three started for the exit together. Jayda started to tell them all about her recent travels. Leora filled her in on the gang and what their plans for tonight were.
Jared knew Kyle was going to love his surprise. He had been trying to figure out what to do for his birthday. This was probably one of the best presents he could get for Kyle. He knew that both Miles and Kyle missed Jayda.
The three piles into Kendall's SUV. Jared started the car and turned to Jayda in the back seat.
"We have to make one more stop if that's ok," Jared said.
"Totally, I am at your mercy since you're driving," Jayda said.
"Where are we stopping?" Leora asked.
"To get Jill and Carly," Jared said.
"Oh yeah, I haven't seen those two in forever. I miss them," Leora said excitedly.
"Let me just message Dede that we are on our way," Jared chuckled.
—Happy Mistakes—
Kendall watched and Kyle, Miles, Cooper, and Adam laughed over lunch. They had ordered pizza and everyone was having a good time. Miri was sitting in Kyle's lap and loving all the attention she was getting. Miles was holding Jenny who was a little jealous of Miri getting all of Kyle's attention. Adam and Cooper were keeping an eye on the boys. James was sitting silently, picking at his crossed the room and sat down next to James. He didn't even seem to notice Kendall had joined him. Kendall reached over and placed a hand on his knee startling him. James jumped and looked at him confused.
"You ok?" Kendall asked.
"Sorry, I was spacing out," James said quietly.
"Not hungry?" Kendall asked looking down at the pizza James had annihilated. James glanced down at it sheepishly.
"Not really," he admitted quietly.
"You ok?" Kendall asked. He looked over at the boys for a moment. He urged James up. Kyle and Adam looked up at them. "Someone here is not feeling like pizza even though it was his suggestion." Kendall said quickly. James gave him a slight glare. "Anyways, we are gonna go for a ride. Please don't burn the house down." He looked at Miles as he spoke.
"Why are you looking at me?" Miles asked.
"Why am I looking at you Miles," Kendall asked, knowing Miles knew the answer.
"That was one time," Miles said, shaking his head, "I was ten, and it was a small fire. No one got hurt."
"I've got a scar," Kyle said.
"You've got a lot of scars, because we do a lot of stupid shit together," Miles replied. Kyle opened his mouth and closed it with a shrug. Miles was right.
"Cooper you know where the fire extinguisher is right?" James asked.
"Yep, but if you think I can stop those two," Cooper started.
"Please, there are children in the house now. We would never do anything too dangerous while babysitting," Kyle cut him off.
"We can keep an eye on Jenny," Adam assures them.
Kendall steered James away from the kitchen. He led him down the hall being sure to grab James' keys. Once they were alone in the car Kendall turned to look at him.
"What are you hungry for?" He asked.
"To be honest, I'm not really hungry," James replied.
"I know you're upset, but you have to eat something," Kendall said as he started the car. He seemed to mull something over for a moment, before he started driving.
The ride was spent in a tense silence. Kendall knew James was still thinking about what had happened with Carlos and Logan. It was Kendall's job to distract him. He knew just the place.
Once they arrived at their destination. Kendall jumped out of the car and ran around to James' side. He opened the door for him. James smiles as he got out of the car. He looked up at the sign that read Hills.
"Kendall, I'm really not that hungry," James said.
"I know, but I know there is one thing you can't resist," Kendall said, grabbing his hand and leading him inside.
He steered James to a table before he left to find a waitress. James watched him talk to the waitress and point over at him. She smiled and nodded her head. Kendall returned after she walked away.
"What are you doing?" James asked.
"I'm trying to distract you," Kendall said as he slid into the booth across from James.
"Kendall I'm fine, I'm just not that hungry," James said.
"I know and I didn't order food, not really," Kendall said slowly.
"Not really?" James asked.
"Trust me," Kendall said as he reached his hand across the table. James took his hand with a smile.
"I do," James said.
"So, if I recall, we ended our first date here," Kendall said.
"Second date," James corrected him.
"First, because us hanging out at the pool doesn't count as a date," Kendall said glaring slightly at James.
"Yes it does, especially since after that date we shared our first real kiss," James said.
"I won't argue the kids, but I still believe our first date was mini golf followed by a late night visit to hills," Kendall said.
"Where we got a slice of pie and a large vanilla milkshake," James said smiling. He realized what Kendall was doing.
As if I'm cue the waitress from earlier arrived with a slice of apple pie and a milkshake. She smiled and told them to enjoy it as she walked away.
"Well since you're not hungry," Kendall said, as he made a grab for the pie.
"Funny," James said reaching for the pie.
"Ok then we will share," Kendall said jumping up and moving to sit beside James. He grabbed a fork and offered James a bite of the pie. James smiled and took the bite.
"Thanks," James said, his smile never fading.
"You looked like you needed a distraction," Kendall replied.
"So our second date is how you did it?" James asked with a playful smirk as he grabbed the shake and the straw beside it.
"First," Kendall said, snatching the other straw.
"We are never gonna resolve this argument are we?" James chuckled.
"I guess not, but it was still a very special night for me," Kendall said.
"Oh yeah and why?" James asked.
"Because that was the night where I realized that everything I had ever been looking for was right in front of me and I had been too stupid to realize it. That was the night that I knew, I was going to spend the rest of my life trying to prove to you that we belonged together forever," Kendall said, smiling at him. He leaned in and pecked James on the lips. "I knew that that was it, I was done. I found the one."
"You wanna know what moment it was for me?" James asked.
"What?" Kendall asked.
"It was that day at the pool. After everything that had gone down between you, Lucy, and Jo. I knew I had to at least tell you how I felt. I didn't want to spend my life wondering what could have been. So I cornered you in the elevator and I told you everything, and I took a chance and kissed you. Then Jo and Lucy showed up and I thought I lost you," James said slowly as he looked down at the table.
"For a moment there you did," Kendall admitted.
"I know, but you came back and we didn't talk about it. We spent the whole day by the pool laughing and joking like nothing was wrong," James said smiling. Kendall reached over and grabbed his hand. "Then as we made our way back to the apartment you stopped me and kissed me. And that was it, I was gone. I knew you were the one."
"Ok, I get that, but like that wasn't a date. That was us just hanging out by the pool and me realizing that maybe I liked you a little more than as a friend," Kendall said.
"To you maybe," James replied.
"Let's agree you disagree," Kendall said smiling as he leaned in and kissed James.
"Fine by me," James replied with a smile. He kissed Kendall again.
