Chapter 40: But I Guess that Doesn't Cut it
Adam quickly made his way into the ER. Rina had called him telling him that Blaine was at the ER with Cooper. She said he was sick and passed out. The kids were with her and taken care of.
After a quick stop at the registration desk he was led back to see Cooper and Blaine. Cooper was sitting up on a bed and Blaine in the chair across from him.
"Adam!" Cooper said shocked, "what are you doing here?"
"Rina called me and said you were here," Adam said.
"I'm fine Blaine overreacted," Cooper said
"Cooper you passed out," Blaine said.
"But I'm fine, trust me," Cooper said.
"He was puking his guts out and then he passed out," Blaine said, turning to Adam. "I got worried."
"Coop," Adam said.
"Guys I'm fine I swear," Cooper said annoyed.
"It's better to be safe than sorry Cooper," Blaine said.
"Blaine you are so dense sometimes. I wasn't ok with Rina there, it ramped up my anxiety I already had. I just wanted to talk to you," Cooper snapped.
"Sorry, how was I supposed to know?" Blaine asked.
Adam took a step back and let them argue. He knew better than to get in the middle of this.
"Because I asked you to come over, not you and Rina. I just wanted my brother to come over and talk. I was anxious on top of…" Cooper trailed off.
"On top of what, you haven't been making sense all afternoon here Coop," Blaine said.
"Because I'm pregnant and I wanted to talk to you and figure things out before I told Adam," Cooper snapped as the doctor knocked and walked into the room. He paused and looked over to Cooper.
"So you know your lab results then?" He asked, looking at Cooper.
"Yea, it was morning sickness, on top of anxiety and not drinking enough water," Cooper replied meekly.
"Wait a minute I think I just blanked out there for a moment, did you just say-" Adam said.
"Yes Adam, I'm pregnant, I only just confirmed it this morning. I wanted to talk to Blaine because you were working and I panicked. I was going to tell you once you got home from work, I swear," Cooper said.
"First time?" The doctor asked.
"No/Yes," Adam and Cooper said together.
"We have two children Adam," Cooper said.
"But technically this is your first and how did this even happen we haven't-oh," Adam said slowly.
He had a brief flashback of their night together a couple months ago. They had started having sex, but fallen asleep. Adam didn't even finish.
"Yeah," Cooper nodded his head.
"But I didn't-we didn't," Adam said slowly as he tried to piece it all together.
"Sometimes, pre-ejaculate can have sperm in it and can cause pregnancy," The doctor said, catching on to what Adam was trying to say.
"Can I go now?" Cooper asked.
"Yes, we will get those discharge papers going," he said as he left.
"I'm gonna go find a snack or something," Blaine said, making a move to leave.
"This is all your fault B, you jinxed us," Cooper said.
"We were being so careful and I'm on birth control and everything," Adam said.
"Well where there's a will, there's a way," Blaine sighed.
"Oh my god you're pregnant," Adam said, turning to face Cooper. He moved over to the side of his bed. "Like really pregnant."
"Yeah," Cooper said, nodding his head.
Adam sat on the edge of the bed. Blaine finally slipped out of the room.
"Wow, I don't know what to say Coop," Adam said slowly. "I'm in shock. I-we were being so careful."
"Aren't we always being careful?" Cooper chuckled.
"True, so here we go again," Adam said, grabbing Cooper's hand. He ran his thumb over his knuckles.
"I guess so," Cooper said, turning his hand over and grabbing Adam's hand. "I'm scared."
"Me too, but we can get through this together like we always do," Adam said.
"Ok, I guess we just take this one day at a time," Cooper said.
"Let's keep this between us for a bit, I don't want my family freaking out just yet," Adam said.
"Agreed, this is between us and Blaine and probably Rina," Cooper said, nodding his head.
—Happy Mistakes—
Kyle followed Miles down the hall to his room. Logan was still gone in Minnesota and Carlos was at work. Layla was out with Mille and Erika. They had the house all to themselves.
"Oh my god, inviting them to stay at Jared's was a mistake," Kyle said as he sat down on Miles' bed. "They can't go back in the house until the contractors get everything patched up. Luckily there was no damage to the foundation, but they are on us like a hawk now. I can't get away from them."
"I feel your pain," Miles said, "ever since I missed curfew because of you he's been cracking down on me."
"It wasn't my fault, you could have left at any point," Kyle laughed.
"Who said I wanted to go," Miles said as he sat down in the blondes lap. "That was so much fun."
"Yeah?" Kyle smirked.
"Yeah, I was learning. You were teaching me," Miles winked at him.
"Yeah, well since we're alone, wanna demonstrate your newly acquired skills," Kyle asked, leaning in and nipping at Miles's lips playfully. He anchored his hands on Miles' hips and pulled him closer.
"Ok, but I might need one more demonstration as well, just so I can know if I'm doing it right," Miles said. He leaned in and sealed their lips together.
Kyle pulled him close. He laid back on the bed taking Miles down with him. He then rolled them over. He pressed his hips down into him.
"Don't mess with me Miles, I haven't been able to get any for days," Kyle said.
"Someone is all wound up," Miles laughed.
"Very much so, care to help me with that?" Kyle asked.
"I dunno, what do I get out of this?" Miles asked.
"Another lesson," Kyle said, "I can teach you a new trick to impress anyone you sleep with."
"Bet," Miles said. He leaned in and smashed their lips together again.
Miles rolled them over so he was on top of Kyle again. His hands quickly moved to the blonde fly. He attempted to wrestle it open. Kyle laughed as he wiggled his hips making Miles' job harder. He loved messing with the other boy.
"Stop, you're doing that on purpose," Miles whined, grabbing his hips trying to still them. He knew once he let go Kyle would start moving again.
"Don't know what you're talking about," Kyle laughed.
A knock at the door came. The pair jump with Kyle's forehead hitting Miles' jaw. Miles fell to the side as he rubbed his jaw, slipping off the bed in the process.
Carlos entered the room with a basket of laundry. He glanced down at the pair with a sigh, before walking over to Miles dresser.
"Fighting again boys," Carlos asked as he started to put clothes away.
"He started it," Miles groaned as he sat up, "I didn't know you were home. I thought you were working."
"I was, but I got done early and instead of sitting around I came home. Now, don't break any bones. Your dad isn't here," Carlos said as he finished putting the laundry away. "I'm making eggplant parm per Layla's request for dinner. I'll let you know when it's done, Kyle, are you staying?"
"Most likely," Kyle replied. He was praying Carlos wouldn't look over at them again. He would surely piece together what they had been doing.
"Good, I already planned for that anyways," Carlos said as he turned and left. He paused at the doorway. "You two gotta stop wrestling like that. One of these days you are gonna hurt each other."
Once he was gone and the door was shut again, Miles let out the breath he had been holding. He looked over at Kyle. They locked eyes. Suddenly laughter filled the air as they both started laughing.
"Oh my god what was that," Kyle said as he wiped a tear from his eye.
"He's…wow…yeah," Miles laughed.
"You need to remember to lock the door," Kyle said.
"How could I focus on that when you've got your hands all over," Miles said, shoving the blonde lightly.
"I guess I gotta do everything around here," Kyle said getting up. He locked the door. He turned around and almost ran into Miles. Miles pushed him back into the door.
"You don't do everything," Miles said as his hands came down to Kyle's fly again. This time he managed to open it. "I think I do more of the work actually."
"Oh really now?" Kyle asked. His focus on Miles now as he opened his jeans and pulled his semi erect dick out.
"Oh yeah," Miles said as he dropped to his knees. He wasted no time in taking the blonde into his mouth.
Kyle grunted and fell back against the door. Miles quickly set about demonstrating his new skills. Miles bobbed his head with confidence. He used his tongue to tease the vein. He pulled off the blonde and lapped at the head. Something he had learned that drove Kyle wild.
"Fuck," Kyle grunted.
"Better keep quiet dude, we fooled him once, I don't think we can fool him like this," Miles teased.
Kyle's hand came down to tangle in his hair. He urged Miles back onto his dick. Miles was more than happy to comply.
Miles took Kyle all the way down, until his nose brushed the mess of dirty blonde curls around the base of his dick. He swallowed around him causing Kyle to grunt. He glanced up to see the blonde had his fist in his mouth.
Miles continued to deep throat the blonde. It didn't take long for Kyle to near his orgasm. He tugged on Miles' hair and pulled him off knowing Miles didn't like it when he came in his mouth. . Miles sat back looking up at the blonde with a smirk. He jerked him the rest of the way. Kyle came covering his fist with come.
"You have gotten way too good at that," Kyle panted.
"What can I say, I'm a fast learner," Miles said cockily.
He grabbed a dirty shirt and wiped his hand off. Kyle urged him to his feet. He pulled Miles in for a kiss. He guided him back to the bed.
"Ok how about we actually play video games like we came here to do," Kyle asked as he pushed Miles down to the bed.
"What? No fair-" Miles started.
"It's so easy to rile you up," Kyle laughed, he captured his lips in a kiss.
—Happy Mistakes—
Jared quickly made his way into Rocque records. He had decided to do the coffee run this morning and give Penelope a break. She had sent him a long text with everyone's drink orders and that totaled three coffee carriers. He had no idea how she managed all this on a daily basis.
He stopped at the front desk to give Betsy her morning tea. She was surprised to see Jared with the drinks, and offered to help, but he told her he had it under control, or so he thought. His next stop was Kelly's office where she was sitting with Gustavo talking over some contracts. He passed along their coffee to them making sure Gustavo got the decaf per Penelope's orders.
"Thanks Jared, where's Penelope?" Kelly asked.
"I offered to do the coffee run this morning and I have no idea how she does this every morning. That girl deserves a medal," Jared said.
"Not as easy as it looks?" Kelly laughed.
"No, and everyone's got a special order," Jared said.
"Well this is good, so you got mine right," Kelly replied.
"It's just hazel with caramel macchiato; it's the second easiest one to order." Jared said, "Matty is the only demented weirdo I know that drinks black coffee," he added.
"I'm a basic bitch, what can I say," Kelly shrugged.
"You're a pumpkin spice person aren't you?" Jared asked.
"Yes she is." Gustavo barked a laugh.
"Anyways I gotta get this to Kendall and Pen before the hot coffee gets cold and the cold coffee gets warm,," Jared said.
"Better hurry along then," Kelly laughed.
Jared left her office and made his way towards Kendall's office. On the way there he ran into the lead singer of the band Weiss, Jesse.
"They make you do the coffee runs now?" Jesse asked with a smirk.
"I offered to help out," Jared replied, trying not to roll his eyes at him.
He couldn't stand Jesse. He was cocky and annoying. He had bought his recording contract with Jack Harvey, another producer at Rocque Records with questionable standards, but he put out hit after hit so no one questioned him. Jesse and his band mates were annoying. They were all rich spoiled brats who thought they ran the place.
"So first the kid dumps you, and then you get demoted to coffee runner," Jesse laughed.
"Excuse me?" Jared said, shocked.
"I heard that you and the kid were done," Jesse said.
"I have not been dumped, I don't know what you're talking about," Jared said, annoyed.
Jesse was always trying to start things. He was trying to cause unrest among Inside Joke, but he had never mentioned Kyle before.
"Oh, sorry I just heard a rumor, my bad," Jesse said with a smirk.
"You shouldn't believe every little rumor you hear," Jared said, annoyed.
"You might want to keep your boy on a tighter leash then," Jesse said.
"What's that supposed to mean? Are you trying to take him? Good luck with that, even if we were broken up you'd be at the bottom of the list," Jared said.
It was no secret that Jesse liked Kyle. He hit on him all the time, and even tried to zero in when they had broken up last time.
"I'm just saying be careful with the kid, some rumors hold a hint of truth behind them," Jesse said with a shrug. He walked away.
Jared stood there a moment before he remembered the coffee he was supposed to be delivering. He made his way to Kendall's office. He entered and saw Kendall and Penelope sitting across from one another talking.
"About time, I was starting to wonder if you gave up on life," Penelope said.
"I got caught talking with Kelly," Jared said, walking over to the desk and setting the coffee down. He handed Penelope her hot chocolate and Kendall his coffee. "You deserve an award for not getting things mixed up. Luckily the barista knew you and your regular order."
"Was Jazz working?" Penelope asked.
"Yep and she got an extra big tip for putting up with me," Jared replied.
"Good, she's awesome and I love her," Penelope said.
"Don't let Matty hear you talk like that," Jared laughed.
"Haha, I'm sure he knows he's my favorite. I mean I am having his baby," Penelope asked.
"Right, that's happening soon isn't it," Jared replied.
"Due in July," Penelope confirmed.
"That's coming up quick," Jared said. "Are you gonna be ok with Matt on the road?"
"Yeah, I'll be fine. My mom is coming down to stay with me after you guys leave. She wants to be here for her birth," Penelope replied.
"And Matt can take any time off he needs, we can work around his absence," Kendall said.
"How? Most songs are four part harmony and the dances are for four people," Jared said confused.
"Why do you think I put Kyle in charge?" Kendall asked, "he will already be on tour with you guys, and with Avery there as well we can pull Kyle from opening and have him join you guys."
"Oh," Jared said.
"There is a method to my madness," Kendall chuckled.
"Question," Jared said, turning to Penelope.
"Answers, maybe," Penelope replied.
"Apparently there is a rumor going around, have you heard anything," Jared said.
"About what?" Kendall asked.
"I haven't heard anything about you," Penelope said thoughtfully.
"Jesse is just trying to start shit," Jared said, shaking his head.
"Ignore Jesse, he's a twat," Kendall said.
"Don't use that word. You're too old for that, but yes he is a twat," Penelope agreed ignoring the glare Kendall sent her way for calling him old.
"I know, but he's…forget it. It's nothing," Jared said, shaking his head.
Kendall opened his mouth to speak when his office door opened and Noah, Roldy, and Matt all piled in.
"About time you show up," Penelope said, standing up and grabbing Matt's coffee. She held it out to him.
"Why'd you leave so early?" Matt asked, accepting the coffee from her.
"My day starts at five, Matty. I can't wait around all morning for you to decide to crawl out of bed for work at eight, but show up closer to nine," Penelope said, "I've got a lot to get done in a day, and I do it all without caffeine."
"You're amazing, have I told you that?" Matt asked.
"Why five?" Noah asked.
"I go to the gym at 5:30, less staring," Penelope replied, "then I get here by seven to set up for the morning meetings and then I do a coffee run usually, and tell Kendall how his day is gonna go and then I get ready for your guys arrival and hide all the breakable shit before nine," Penelope said.
"And we love you," Roldy said.
"Yes, we appreciate all that you do," Noah said.
"Good, you better cause once I'm gone this place is gonna fall apart," Penelope said.
The office door opened again and Kendall jumped up. The office was getting a bit crowded. He frowned as James walked in with Leora and Kyle.
"What now? Shouldn't you two be in school," Kendall asked.
"Career day," Kyle said.
"No," Kendall said.
"I've got meetings all day, I can't," James said.
"No, you did this last time. It's your turn," Kendall said.
"Don't you feel the love?" Kyle asked Leora, who covered her mouth trying not to laugh.
"Out," Kendall said, turning to the others. They all jumped up and ran from the office, leaving the Knights alone. Kyle and Leora left as well ducking their heads.
"I know I did this last time, but I'm busy today. I've got like six meetings to go to and we are doing promos today too. I can't keep track of them," James said walking around Kendall's desk to stand in front of the blonde. He crossed his arms over his chest.
"And I'm not busy? Gustavo is making me go to all these boring meetings too and the guys have rehearsals too," Kendall said, annoyed.
"Yes but you are staying in one place, let Kyle work on his music and I am sure Penelope would love having Leora around for extra hands," James said, "I am going to be all over the place today. I can't keep track of them."
"Why do I always gotta watch them?" Kendall asked.
"Because you have the stable job, in one building," James said.
"But Kyle is a distraction and Jared won't be paying attention all day," Kendall said.
"I'll owe you dinner," James said.
"You always cook dinner cause I'm not that good at it. Like I know the basics but your food is so much better," Kendall said.
"You can have me for dessert," James said.
"I always have that too," Kendall shot back.
"I'll do that thing you like," James said, making a face.
"Promise?" Kendal asked.
"If you take Kyle and Leora for career day, yes," James said, nodding his head and holding out his pinky.
"Aren't we a bit old for pinky promises?" Kendall asked as he locked his pinky with James'.
"Not at all," James said, "Aaaaand I love you."
"Love you too," Kendall sighed as he pecked him on the lips. "You're lucky you're cute you know that?" he asked.
"I know, I've got you wrapped around my finger," James grinned as he kissed him again. "Now I gotta go. I'm gonna be late tonight so you can't stay here too late. Marcie has the kids and has plans tonight so don't be late."
"Yes sir," Kendall saluted the brunette as he started for the door. They exited the office. Kendall looked at Kyle and Leora and saw Miles sitting there as well. "Wait a minute. There's an extra child here."
"What? No, Miles was there the whole time," James said quickly. "No take backsies! You agreed."
"To Kyle and Leora, my children," Kendall said.
"Come on Kendall what's one more, Carlos is busy on set and I can't get ahold of him and Logan's still in Minnesota," James said.
"You tricked me," Kendall said.
"What, no! Miles forgot his bag in the car and had to run and get it. I would never purposely make him sit out here to trick you," James said, shaking his head. "Anyway I've got like ten minutes to get across town. Have fun and I will see you later. Lock them in your office for all I care, I just can't haul three teenagers around all day," James said.
"James Isaac," Kendall said warningly.
"Have I ever mentioned how cute you are when you're mad?" James asked, pulling a trick from Kendall's bag. He stepped up to the blonde batting his eyelashes at him.
"Stop," Kendall said.
"Like super cute," James said, poking Kendall's cheek. Kendall cracked a smile. "You smiled, I won!" He cheered.
"Go, before I change my mind," Kendall said. James took off without another word. Kendall turned towards the group. "Pen, do you want an assistant today?" He asked.
"Sure." Penelope nodded her head.
"Take your pick," Kendall said.
Penelope turned to the three. "Leora."
"Yes," Leora cheered, hugging the older girl.
"Rude," Kyle said.
"I see you everyday and you already know my job, maybe Leora could learn something today," Penelope said.
"Fair, but I still feel betrayed," Kyle replied.
"Noted," Penelope chuckled.
"Noah you got Miles," Kendall said.
"Why me?" Noah asked.
"Jared and Roldy don't care and won't pay attention to him and Matty has a history of trying to murder him," Kendall said.
"Well we can't have that," Noah said, "guess you're with me today kid."
"As long as you protect me from Matthew, I'll behave," Miles said.
"Deal, but if you keep calling him Matthew no one can protect you," Noah replied.
"And Kyle you're with me," Kendall said.
"What? Why?" Kyle asked.
"You really think I'm gonna let you run around with Jared and Miles all day?" Kendall asked.
"Well I had hoped you would," Kyle replied.
"Actually I know just where to put you," Kendall said slowly. "Pen, when is my next meeting?"
"It started five minutes ago," Penelope replied.
"Perfect, guys studio now, rehearsals. Pen, show Leora around, and Kyle let's go," Kendall said Kyle groaned but followed him.
—Happy Mistakes—
Logan sat with Presely as she talked to her doctor, Dr. Erin White, about the program that Logan and Marcus were proposing she join. Marcus was on speaker with the doctor as they talked.
"I have to say I am impressed that you were able to get Presley into this trial," Dr. White said.
"Well given Presely's history she is an interesting candidate and this could really benefit her," Marcus said.
"I will gladly hand over Presley to you guys, as long as you promise to take good care of her," Dr. White said.
"I promise, she will be in the best hands here with Dr. Martin and his team who I will work closely with to oversee her care," Marcus said.
"So I have a spot?" Presley asked.
"Yes, Dr. Martin approved it this morning and is eager to get started with your care. The early trials of this treatment have been very promising, but he had yet to have a patient under 30, that's part of the reason for your approval, we need all ages to run this trial," Marcus said.
"Now Presley, I want you to know that this is a trial and the results might not end up the way you like," Erin said.
"I'm willing to try anything at this point," Presley said, "I know the risks. Logan and I have talked extensively about the risk of entering a trial like no chemo while I'm in the trial and other stipulations of the trial."
"And Dr. Mitchell, you work with Dr. Jacobi, right?" Erin asked for clarification.
"Yes, I am a diagnostic surgeon that works with the Diagnostic team at Sanai which is headed by Marcus and I almost went into oncology and made a great connection with Dr. Martin myself," Logan said, nodding his head. "I was actually talking with Dr. Martin about two weeks ago about this trial. He was having very promising results and they had just approved the trial to go to testing on patients. He was looking for more candidates, and then I heard about Presley. It was a sign."
"Well I'm glad Presley has a brother who is looking out for her," Erin said.
"Me too," Presely said.
"So, the trial doesn't start for a few more weeks," Marcus said.
"That's ok, I gotta finish my chemo and according to Logan's math I'll be off chemo for four weeks by the time the trial starts and I should be good to go," Presely said.
"I cleared it with Sean, Marcus," Logan said quickly.
"Well alright, but I want you here soon Presely so we can monitor you prior to the trial," Marcus said.
"Yep, a week after my chemo ends I'll be on a flight out to LA," Presely said nodding her head, "as long as there are no complications."
The rest of the appointment was spent just making plans for Presely to head to LA. Once they were finished they made their way out to the waiting room where Joanna and David were waiting for them. Presely smiled and gave them a thumbs up.
"I got into the trial," Presely said.
"Oh sweetie," Joanna said as she stood. She quickly pulled Presely into a hug. She looked over at Logan. "Thank you."
"Don't thank me, Marcus is the one who worked his magic," Logan said.
"And this isn't a sure thing, but it's worth a shot," Presely said.
"We will take it and hope for the best," David said.
David led his family out to the car. Presely was trying to calm Joanna down from her excitement. There was a small chance that this wouldn't work. She didn't want Joanna getting her hopes up.
—Happy Mistakes—
Leora watched as Penelope sorted through a stack of paperwork on her desk. She had been showing her all the ins and outs of being an assistant producer. It was grunt work mostly, but you had to pay your dues to get the good job. Penelope, after her maternity leave, would be coming back as a producer to work alongside Kendall and Kelly. She was so excited to be moving up the ladder.
"How do you know what goes where and to who?" Leora asked.
"All things Inside Joke goes to your dad unless he's off, then I send the real important stuff to Kelly otherwise it waits till he gets back. Kelly's got her talent and then there's Jack he's got very few he works with he most records demos and sends them on their way," Penelope said.
"I thought you worked with dad," Leora said.
"Yes, I am Kendall's assistant, but Kelly and Jack don't have any interns right now so I help out as best I can. I sort all the paperwork and mail for them. I help keep things running as smoothly as possible," Penelope said.
"Wow," Leora said in awe.
"I also handle all Inside Joke fan mail. It comes to me for further sorting and once a month the guys open letters and gifts, I coordinate all that for them. I handle all the paperwork and take notes to write return letters and send merch. It's the guy's words, I just organize them and make it make sense and send gifts back. Those boys are going to be so lost when I leave at the end of May," Penelope said.
"Wow, like I know you do a lot here, but I never realize just how much you did," Leora said.
"I don't either, until I start talking about it," Penelope chuckled.
"How do you find the time and energy?" Leora asked.
"No clue, especially now that I am off caffeine because of the baby," Penelope replied.
"You're amazing, has anyone told you that?" Leora asked.
"The guys have, like all the time. I think they are scared of me quitting, but I would never turn my back on them. I love them all too much and I worked way too hard to get this job, and have climbed the ladder for too long to start over somewhere new," Penelope replied.
"I am definitely going to write my paper about you," Leora said.
"Paper?" Penelope asked.
"We have to write a paper about who we followed for career day, and I've done dad, pops, Carlos, and Logan a lot. I've done auntie Katie once," Leora said. "So I wanna help you. Anything you need me to do? I wanna learn what goes on in the day in the life of Penelope Daniels."
"Awesome, so what do you need from me? Wanna help me sort some mail, after we drop these contracts off?" Penelope asked.
"Yeah let's get it done," Leora said.
"You're the best," Penelope said.
"Penelope."
Penelope looked up as Jesse entered the office. She gave him a smile.
"Looking for Jack's paperwork?" Penelope said, picking up a stack of paperwork she had sorted.
"Yeah, he's grateful that you do this for him. He still wants you to reconsider his offer," Jesse said, taking the stack of papers from her.
"No thanks, I like where I am at. I can't leave my boys, they would all fall apart without me," Penelope said.
"He's offered equal partnership," Jesse said.
"So is Kendall, I love working with him and the boys. I made my choice," Penelope said, annoyed.
"Why? Those losers-" Jesse started.
"Have a gold record already with their new one already poised to be even bigger," Leora said, cutting off Penelope. "Not to mention their producer/manager isn't a total creep."
"And who are you?" Jesse asked, looking Leora up and down. "Blonde? Green eyes? You must be another Knight."
"Jesse take your paperwork and go," Penelope said, standing up and giving the man a gentle nudge towards the door.
"Fine, all I'm saying is if you reconsidered earlier you wouldn't be knocked up with some losers kid," Jesse said as he walked out.
"Kyle's right, he is an asshole," Leora said.
"Yeah, he's a spoiled little rich boy who was handed everything in life and he's pissed that I shot him down for Matty," Penelope said, "he when I told him no he was offended and spend the next two weeks trying to convince me why he was the better choice, but all he did was prove how much of an asshole he really was. I am glad I chose Matty and I am excited for this little one's arrival." She placed a hand on her stomach with a smile.
"Yeah, Matty is a million times better," Leora agreed.
—Happy Mistakes—
Kyle followed after Kelly. Kendall had thought it would be a good idea to stick him with her today. He told him it would be an opportunity to see how another producer works and gets things done. Kelly had been more than willing to help out. So far today they had gone to three meetings with potential new clients and recorded some demos for snotty rich teenager. She had been so starstruck when she saw Kyle walk in with Kelly. She had been so excited to have Kyle sitting in on her session. She had been ok, nothing extraordinary.
"Is it always like that?" Kyle asked as they walked along.
"Not every demo we record is a winner, but her dad paid a lot of money to get her in the door, I'll send the demos to your dad and Jack and we will make a decision if we want to sign her or if she should shop her demos around to other record companies," Kelly replied.
"Why? She obviously doesn't have talent, why bother," Kyle asked.
"Because they had the money to rent the space and I was available," Kelly said.
"So if you have money you can get demos recorded even if you're not talented," Kyle asked.
"Yep, talent is hard to find, when you do find it you nature it and help it grow. The guys were a rare find, and you got in because of who your dad is, but you're uber talented too so that's why we let you," Kelly said.
"Noted," Kyle said.
"Oh kid, there is so much that goes on behind the scenes that you don't even know about," Kelly said.
"Then teach me, I wanna know, I wanna do this," Kyle said quickly.
"That's why your dad sent you with me," Kelly said.
"So do you think dad can get pops and Carlos to agree to do the reunion?" Kyle asked.
"Yeah, they'll come around, especially once they realize Logan already signed the contract, they both hate being the last to sign. The only reason they are holding out is because they don't know we got him," Kelly said.
"So what are we waiting for?" Kyle asked, confused.
"Your dad wants to get Inside Joke's tour done first," Kelly said.
"Ah, I see," Kyle said, nodding his head. "So what's next on the agenda?"
"One more meeting with Gustavo and some benefactors and then we are free for lunch," Kelly said.
"Awesome, you're not gonna make me stick with you for lunch are you?" Kyle asked.
"No, you can go find Jared and Miles," Kelly laughed.
"NO offense Kel, like I love you and all-" he started.
"But you're more interested in seeing your boyfriend," Kelly finished for him. "It's ok, I gotta go pick up Mick and bring her to Luke who's at his mom's this week and her daycare is only open until one today," Kelly said.
"Right, so I'll see you after lunch then," Kyle asked.
"Closer to one thirty, but yes," Kelly said.
"Sweet, I'll see you then," Kyle said. He took off pulling his phone out to find out where the others were.
-Happy Mistakes-
Carlos entered his dressing room. He fell down onto his couch with a sigh. He snatched his phone from the coffee table where he had left it earlier. He saw that he had several texts and missed calls from James. Apparently it had been career day at school, Miles was going to Rocque Records with Kyle and Leora, while Layla went with Millie and her mom to her job. He also had a phone call from Tracy, Millie's mom, confirming that Layla was with her and Millie. He called her first just to check in.
"Hello Carlos, I was wondering when you were gonna get my message," Tracy greeted him.
"I am so sorry, I've been so busy all morning and I just picked up my phone," Carlos said.
"It's ok, I know you're busy and I wasn't worried. I know you've got a lot going on," Tracy said.
"How is Layla, is she behaving?" Carlos asked.
"I set two teenage girls loose in a bakery, how do you think it's going?" Tracy laughed.
"That well I see, be sure that Layla gets all the information for her assignment too. They have to write a paper about the career they shadowed and what not. I know I'm gonna have to hound Miles too," Carlos said.
"I did not know about the paper, it seems Millie will have to get on that too," Tracy said.
"Yes, don't let her slack off, the school frowns upon that," Carlos chuckled.
"Anyways they are learning a lot, and they've been helping decorate a birthday cake with me. They want to help finish so it might be a late night if that's ok," Tracy said.
"Can she stay the night with you guys? I'm working late tonight, and I'm sure Miles will be off with Kyle and the guys all night and with Logan in Minnesota there's no one home," Carlos said.
"Can she stay the night?" Tracy asked incredulously. "Of course she can, she's always welcome here, Erika too."
"Great, thanks Trace, next sleepover is on me," Carlos promised.
"Next weekend, Jerry has a work retreat and we leave Friday and come back Sunday," Tracy said.
"Done, the girls will love it," Carlos chuckled. "Now I gotta call Kendall and check up on my other demon child," he said.
"Bye Carlos, I'll have Layla text you later too," Tracy said.
Carlos gave a quick goodbye before hanging up. He then dialed Kendall's number and waited for him to answer.
"About time you call me back, I am going to get you back for this," Kendall said.
"Well hello to you too sunshine, I had no idea it was career day, and thank you for taking Miles in off the street. You can send him this way if you'd like," Carlos said.
"Nah, Noah's having fun having an assistant for the day and Miles is excited to write a paper about a day in the life of a popstar," Kendall chuckled.
"Sounds like an interesting paper, especially knowing those boys and the hijinks they can get into," Carlos replied.
"Yeah, they are a lot like we were at that age," Kendall replied.
"Stop," Carlos said, shaking his head, even though Kendall couldn't see him. "I can't right now, I have a lot going on and besides Logan's busy at the hospital, he would never agree even if I did," Carlos said.
"It was worth a shot," Kendall chuckled, "but MIles is taken care of. Don't worry and I am sure he's gonna be hanging out with Kyle or Leora later. I don't know which, they both want his attention lately it seems. Ever since he and Leora started dating Kyle had been taking up more of his time, or maybe we are just noticing how much time they spend together," he said slowly.
"I think you never noticed how much they really hung out, until Leora started to complain about it," Carlos said.
"You're probably right, but if they're dating he needs to make a little more time for her too, unless he doesn't want to be dating, but that's a whole nother can of worms that they need to open," Kendall said.
"Right, anyways thanks again for taking Miles. I appreciate it and the next one is on me. I'll watch Jenny if you need me too and I'm not working," Carlos said.
"Duh, I'll figure out when and James will let you know," Kendall chuckled.
They said their goodbyes before handing up. Carlos set his phone aside with a sigh. He checked the time and groaned. He had to be back on set soon. He didn't want to get up just yet. Everything was going crazy.
"Carlos!"
Carlos looked up as Emily stood in his doorway. She was holding a couple of pizza boxes. He grinned as he stood up.
"Pizza party?" He asked.
"Duh, wanna join us?" She asked.
"Sure, I'll never turn down pizza," Carlos replied with a smile. He followed her from his dressing room to hers where the rest of the cast and some crew members were already setting up for pizza.
—Happy Mistakes—
Miles looked up as Kyle fell down beside him. The guys were busy with Kendall talking about tour details.
"What have you been up to?" Miles asked.
"Dads making me shadow Kelly," Kyle replied, "but she's gotta go pick up Mickey and will be back from lunch a little late, so I've been set free for now."
"Lunch time?" Noah asked looking up.
"Yeah, Kelly left already," Kyle replied.
"Time to go, I'm starving," Noah declared.
"Fine, go get lunch, we will meet up at two," Kendall said dismissing the boys.
"No, it's mail day," Noah reminded Kendall.
"Right, so then we are done for the day," Kendal said, "which means I've got more meetings." He frowned.
Kyle jumped up pulling Miles with him. They joined the guys as they left the conference room. Kyle linked arms with Jared as they talked. Kyle was laughing and looking at Jared with those awestruck eyes again.
Miles felt rage building in his chest at that. He wanted the one Kyle held onto and laughed with. Then again, he was all that already, but he wanted to be the only one. He wanted Kyle to look at him the way he looked at Jared.
"Guys wait up!"
The guys stopped as Penelope and Leora joined them. Penelope walked up to Matt with a grin and pecked him on the cheek.
"Hey," Leora greeted him with a smile.
"Hey, how's it going being Pen's assistant?" Miles asked
"It's fun, I'm seeing a whole new side of Rocque Records," Leora said, linking her arm with his as they walked.
"Yeah, it's kind of fun following Noah around and seeing what they do in a day, it's a lot more than I thought," Miles said. He looked down at her hand on his arm. He didn't hate it, but it didn't feel right either.
"There is so much that goes on in the background than I realized. Penelope single handedly keeps everyone on track and does it all without caffeine lately," Leora said.
"Yeah, she's amazing and deserves her promotion," Miles said.
"So what are we doing for lunch?" Leora asked.
"Dunno, Noah took the charge and told us to follow," Miles said.
Noah led everyone outside to the parking lot where there were four different food trucks waiting and people lined up already. Noah pulled Roldy over to the taco truck while Penelope, Jared, and Kyle all headed to the Asian truck. Matt made his way over to the truck on the end that seemed to be the healthiest option. Leora and Miles decided to try the Flying Hog BBQ truck.
Once everyone had food they all gathered at a picnic table. They chatted and laughed with one another. Miles paid attention to the other couples at the table. They were huddled together and talking and laughing together. Then here he was with Leora, huddling close, but not in the way the others were. He was barely touching her and apologized everytime he bumped her. Everytime Kyle bumped Jared, he nudged him back playfully or Noah would lean on Roldy and laugh when he shoved him off. Matt and Penelope were just sitting close enjoying one another's company. Here Miles was awkwardly sitting next to the girl he was supposed to be dating, but wanting to be next to her brother. Wanting Kyle to bump him and laugh, or steal his drink to take a sip.
Leora was chatting away with Penelope. It seemed she didn't even notice Miles either. She would brush against him every so often and turn to him to include him in the conversation. He was sure any outsider would not think they were dating. Not with all the other couples around them.
Miles watched Kyle with Jared. They were so good together. They were laughing and joking. Kyle was genuinely happy with the older man. Miles didn't want to ruin that. Kyle loved Jared, not him. Who was he to get in the way of that? He didn't want to hurt Jared. He didn't want to hurt Leora. All these thoughts were just so confusing.
Soon they were done eating. Everyone headed back inside. Penelope led the guys to a coffee center room filled with packages and letters.
"Is this what mail day means?" Miles asked.
"Fan mail," Jared said.
"Kyle I also cleared it with Kendall, you can stay if you want," Penelope said.
"Cool, but Kelly is back at one thirty and I wanna help her when she gets back," Kyle said.
"Are you feeling ok?" Jared asked, placing a hand on Kyle's forehead. Kyle shoved his hand away with a playful glare.
"I can't just abandon Kelly, she's actually teaching me a thing or two," Kyle said.
"Wow, Kyle actually wants to learn," Leora said, nudging Miles with a giggle.
"Never thought I'd see the day," Miles joked.
"While I'm happy to hear you wanna learn more Kelly just called and Mickey is sick and she's gonna stay home with her this afternoon. She doesn't want Luke's mom catching this," Kendall said as he walked into the conference room.
"Besides, you can open your mail too!" Penelope said.
"My mail?" Kyle asked, turning to her. She and Leora grabbed two boxes full of letters and packages.
"Yeah, I kept getting questions about sending you fan mail so I set up a box for you too," Penelope said, "a lot of it still comes to the Inside Joke box too."
"Wow," Kyle said.
"Looks like you'll be busy this afternoon," Kendall said, "Pen can I borrow you for a minute?"
"Of course," Penelope said, "make sure the guys keep the letter with the correct envelope." She said to Leora who nodded her head.
Miles sat down with Kyle offering to help him with his mail. Soon the guys were opening packages and mail. They were reading letters and laughing. They were having fun. Kyle was amazed at some of the letters he got too.
Miles watched as Leora helped Penelope keep things organized. They barely said two words to one another all afternoon. He wondered if she was mad at him. He would be mad at him if he was her. Everyone had someone and they were being super cute and affectionate and everytime she tried getting close to him all Miles could do was think about Kyle. He was lying to her and stringing her along. This wasn't fair to either of them.
Suddenly the room felt just a hair too small. His chest felt like it was collapsing in on itself. He excused himself to the bathroom. No one even seemed to notice him leave, aside from Kyle who gave him a concerned look. Miles turned and left the room.
He made his way to the bathroom. He walked over to the sink, trying to catch his breath. He stood there looking in the mirror at himself.
The face staring back at him surprised him a little. He looked so exhausted, and down. He barely recognized himself anymore. Putting on a face for everyone was exhausting. There wasn't much more he could take.
He took a deep calming breath. He closed his eyes and counted to ten. He had to go back in there and face them.
The door opened. Miles stood up straight as Noah entered the bathroom.
"I saw you leave in a hurry, I wanted to make sure you were ok," Noah said.
"Yeah, I'm fine," Miles lied.
"Are you sure, you've kind of been acting weird all day," Noah said, walking up to him.
"Yeah, it's just…" Miles trailed off.
"Are things with Leora ok? You get all tense when she comes near you," Noah asked.
Miles hadn't realized he was being that obvious about it. Then again, Noah was more perceptive that people realized.
"So I'm gonna ask again, are you ok?" Noah asked softly.
"Have you ever wanted to date someone so bad, but like when you finally do you realize maybe you aren't as compatible as you thought, but then there's this other person that you meet and it's like right person wrong time kind of thing and now you're seeing two people because you wanna work this out with the person you've been in love with forever, but this other person I just can't get out of my head," Miles asked.
"Oh my," Noah said.
"I don't know what to do," Miles sighed.
"Does Leora know about this?" Noah asked.
"No, and you can't tell her. Please don't tell her," Miles said quickly.
"I won't, but maybe you two need to talk," Noah said walking over to Miles. "I know Ro and I had a strange transition from friends to dating. It was weird. I had a crush on him since high school, but like he kinda had a thing for Jared maybe, or maybe that was me trying to come up with a reason why he never noticed my flirting," Noah sighed.
"Ro is kind of oblivious," Miles agreed.
"Right, anyways I made a move on him finally after years and he shot me down, said it wouldn't work and he didn't want to lose me as a friend, and I was a little drunk so he said if I wanted to kiss him I had to be sober. So I waited til I was sober and we were alone and I made another move. I told him I wasn't gonna stop, but he still saw me as just a friend. It wasn't until Micah came into the picture did he change his mind," Noah said.
"Micah? That actor from the Palm Woods?" Miles asked.
"Yes, we went on a few dates and he wanted to help set Roldy up because Roldy kept crashing our pool dates," Noah chuckled.
"He was jealous," Miles said. He was reminded of Leora and Sara, or when she heard he was seeing someone else. "Were you a little worried that he only wanted you after he couldn't have you?"
"At first, but I really wanted to be with him. I knew deep down that he was my one and only," Noah said with a smile. He glanced down at his wedding band.
"Leora only wanted to date me after I started dating someone else. When I was single she never even noticed me, hell she told me I was like a brother to her not even six months ago," Miles mumbled.
"Maybe you should talk to her, communication is key in a relationship," Noah said.
"I don't wanna hurt her," Miles said.
"You're only gonna hurt her the longer you string this along," Noah said.
"But this other guy doesn't like me like she does, it's purely physical and he's kind of jerk about it and he's seeing someone else too and oh my god I've made quite a mess of things," Miles said looking down at the floor.
"Hey, hey, it happens, we all make mistakes," Noah said, placing a hand on his shoulder. "I take it you haven't talked to Kyle either."
"I can't," Miles said, shaking his head.
"Yeah, I know he'd say screw the other guy and stay with Leora," Noah said.
"Oh my god is he here?" Miles asked looking around jokingly causing Noah to laugh.
"Maybe you need to take some time to yourself and just figure things out," Noah suggested.
"How? Neither of them will leave me alone," Miles said.
"Time to set some boundaries, it can be hard but you need to tell them both to give you some space and if they don't like that then maybe it's not really a good idea to be in a relationship with them," Noah said.
"You're right I do need to step up and set boundaries. I am letting myself be used and I am better than that. I deserve more," Miles said.
"Yes you do, you deserve the world Miles. Someone who adores you and makes you feel special, and isn't ashamed to be with you," Noah said.
"Thanks Noah," Miles said, smiling at the older man.
"Hey, what are friends for," Noah asked smiling. He pulled Miles into a hug.
"Do me one favor," Miles asked as he took a step back.
"Sure," Noah said.
"Can we keep this between us?" Miles asked, "just for now, I don't want Kyle to get mad at me."
It was the half truth. If he broke up with Leora Kyle would know something was up. Kyle seemed to think things with Miles and Leora were fine. Kyle would probably realize that Miles had feelings for him and get mad. Kyle was happy with Jared. They were amazing together. Miles didn't want to ruin that for them. They had been through so much crap together. They deserved happiness.
"Ok, I'll keep quiet for now, but you need to talk to Leora and figure this out," Noah said.
"I know I just…maybe I'm in my own head too much. Maybe I worked it all up and imagined it for so long that it's not what I thought it would be," Miles said.
"Come on let's go back and open some more mail," Noah said.
He grabbed Miles' hand and started for the door. It opened as Tyler, another member of the band Weiss, entered. He paused as he looked at the two.
"Just making your way through the whole band huh, kid," Tyler said.
"Oh my god not this again," Noah groaned. "Ignore him Miles, he's just jealous that we charted higher than him."
They exited the bathroom. Miles was confused as what he had been talking about. Then it hit him.
"Oh, he thought-" Miles started drawing his hand away from Noah.
"There's a rumor going around that you and Kyle are hooking up," Noah said slowly.
"What?" Miles asked. "That's ridiculous. He's my best friend. We are-" he started.
"I know, but people wanna start drama," Noah said, waving a hand at him.
"I've known Kyle since kindergarten, we are just really close," Miles said, waving a hand.
He was good at deflecting. It was what Kyle wanted. He didn't want anyone to know about them. Kyle didn't want to hurt Jared, after everything he had been through in the last year. Miles could tell that those two loved each other too. Who was he to get in the way of that.
—Happy Mistakes—
Kyle had managed to sneak away from the group as they continued with fan mail. It had become a bit much for him and he needed to get away to relax a bit. He found himself in the recording studio with his guitar. He was just messing around trying to work out a new song.
He started playback to listen to what he had. He wasn't using headphones since he was alone. He wanted to hear it all. He closed his eyes.
"Like the rain on a sunny day, there's a shadow behind your face. Tell me what you're running from. I don't know what made you so afraid," his voice sang through the speaker. He started mixing the music a little, quickening the tempo.
"Working hard I see."
Kyle jumped. He hit the stop and turned to see Miles had entered the studio. He crossed the room and sat down beside the blonde.
"Always," Kyle replied. "What do you think?"
"It sounds like a nice pop love ballad," Miles replied.
"Yeah, I can't write anything else lately, it's like all the words that come out are cheesy romantic and sappy," Kyle said, making a face. "Help me! I've become the one thing I swore I'd never be!" He threw his arms around Miles.
"You're in love, that's what love does dude," Miles laughed trying to shove the blonde off.
"No, I am a serious writer and this…this pop trash is not me," Kyle said. He hung his head on Miles's shoulder.
"But it is, it's your words and your song," Miles said.
"I thought I was past all these cheesy feelings, but here they are, I can't write one song that's not about love," Kyle whined.
"Ha, Jared's really rubbing off on you," Miles laughed.
"Yeah, Jared," Kyle said slowly. He sat up and looked at Miles. "Sorry, I-" he jumped up.
"Yeah, you love Jared," Miles said, nodding his head. "I know that, and I can see that. You two are perfect and he makes you feel all warm and giddy. It's all over your face when you're with him."
"He does," Kyle said, nodding his head.
"I think we both know how this story ends," Miles said slowly.
"Yeah, but I don't want it to end," Kyle said.
"That will pass, I'm nothing special. I'm not like Jared," Miles said looking down at the floor.
"No, you're not like Jared. That's what I like about you. You're completely Miles and nothing will ever change that. Don't change yourself to fit anyone's box," Kyle said, "I think you should ask Leora to be your girlfriend soon, she's getting impatient."
"Yeah, I know but-" Miles started.
"No buts-" Kyle said, shaking his head. He walked up to Miles. He made him stand up. "You have wanted to be with Leora since forever. I don't wanna be in the way of that."
"Yeah, things change, people change," Miles said.
"Don't," Kyle said.
"Dude-" Miles started.
"Don't complicate this. We knew this wasn't gonna work," Kyle said, shaking his head. "This wasn't supposed to get complicated."
"This was complicated from the beginning and you know it," Miles said.
"Miles I can't," Kyle said, shaking his head again. He turned away from him. "After everything Jared and I have been through. He makes me happy. I don't want to hurt him, not after everything that's happened with his parents and his siblings. I just…and then you come in and complicate things and make me-" he cut himself off.
"What?" Miles asked, making him look at him.
"Those songs aren't about Jared," Kyle snapped.
Miles' eyes went wide. Kyle turned away from him again. He took a few steps back from Miles. He needed space. This wasn't how this was supposed to go.
"Miles I can't write one song that's not about you," Kyle said, "I try and all that comes out is this sappy dopey romantic stuff and…I don't know what to do. Everyone seems to think it's all about Jared, but if I'm being honest, it's not. It's…I…Miles I-"
Miles closed the distance between them. He grabbed the blonde's face and pulled him into a crushing kiss. Kyle flailed and grabbed Miles' shirt to ground himself. He pulled the other boy closer.
They parted, Kyle resting his forehead on Miles'. He tried to catch his breath. miles always left him so breathless. They stood there in the middle of the room.
"Me too dude," Miles said, "me too."
"But we can't," Kyle said, even though it pained him to say so.
"What? Did you not just admit-" Miles stated.
Kyle slapped a hand over his mouth. If they didn't say that word, maybe they could make it past this. Kyle shook his head.
"Leora will never forgive me if I screw up her relationship," Kyle said. Miles' eyes went wide as he remembered Leora was a part of this equation as well. "I can't do that too her. I can't-I'm sorry." Kyle stepped back from him again.
"Right, Leora," Miles said, nodding his head. "I should probably go."
Kyle nodded his head, unable to say anything. Miles bolted from the room. Kyle returned to the chair he had been sitting in. He sank down into his chair, fighting back the urge to run after Miles. He knew even if he didn't like it, it was for the best.
Kyle didn't want to hurt Jared and Leora. They were innocent in all this. It was his fault this all got too complicated. This should have never carried on as long as it had.
Kyle looked down at the soundboard. He slammed his fist down angrily. Why did things have to be so complicated? Why did he even have to choose between Jared and Miles? He cared about them both. There was no way he could pick one over the other. Was it selfish to want them both?
Kyle quickly saved his music and shoved his laptop in his bag. He stood, kicking his chair back roughly. He turned and looked at the chair. He felt rage bubbling up in his stomach. He kicked the chair knocking it over. Not knowing what else to do, he kicked and screamed at the couch. He hated this. This feeling sucked. Doing the right thing sucked.
He threw a couch cushion in his rage. Suddenly nothing was off limits. He tore the room apart. He fell back against the wall shaking. He slid down until he was sitting on the floor, tears flowing. He dropped his head as the rage left and was replaced with sadness and regret.
He looked around the studio. It was torn apart. Kendall was gonna kill him, but he couldn't bring himself to care right now. All that he could think about was the pain in his chest.
