Chapter 18: The Week of...(The Bachelor Party)
Thursday
Jake yawned as he left the bedroom. He saw Damien sitting on the couch with Eli. He saw the bond that they shared already. Damien could always calm Eli. He knew just what he needed. Jake didn't seem to know any of that. It seemed like everything he did was wrong. Eli seemed to cry more when he was with him. It was so unfair that Damien was so good at this. He knew it would come with time. Parenting was a learning curve.
"Good morning sleepyhead, slow start?" Damien asked.
Jake looked to his husband and smiled. He walked over to the pair on the couch. He sat down.
"Morning, just thinking about how we are gonna be leaving him with your mom this weekend," Jake said.
"I know, she's so excited," Damien chuckled, "but are we ready to leave him?"
"You're such a worrywart, he will be fine," Jake said.
"How are you calm about this? This is like the first time we will be leaving him," Damien said quickly, "for like four days!" He added.
Jake chuckled. "It will be fine, I trust your mom. Besides she will be flying up with him for the rest of our vacation. Everything will be fine."
"Maybe, but still, he's only three months old," Damien replied.
"It will be fine," Jake said smiling. He looked down at the sleeping infant.
They were going up north for Noah and Roldy's wedding. Eli was staying with Camille and Steve for the weekend. Camille was taking time off of work and everything. She was excited to take care of her grandson. Damien was panicking over everything. Jake was strangely calm about the whole thing.
"Who would've thought I'd be the clingy one," Damien chuckled.
"I know right," Jake chuckled as well.
"Like my brain is telling me everything will be fine, but like my irrational side is telling me everything that could go wrong and I'm like freaking out," Damien said.
"Well don't worry." Jake felt like he was repeating himself. He just wanted to reassure Damien. Everything was gonna be fine.
"I know," Damien sighed.
"I'm surprised Adam hasn't shown up in full meltdown about leaving his kids," Jake said thoughtfully.
"I'm giving him at least another hour," Damien replied, "he's probably last minute packing."
"You're probably right," Jake laughed.
"Oh I know I'm right," Damien said.
Jake stood and made his way into the kitchen. He stated a search for something to eat. He wasn't hungry, but it was early morning and if he didn't eat now, he was gonna regret it later.
"Hungry? Want me to make breakfast?" Damien asked.
"Yeah, if I try to make something I might burn it," Jake said slowly as he looked through the cupboards.
Damien carefully put Eli in his bassinet. He headed into the kitchen.
"So, whatcha thinkin'?" Damien asked. "Pancakes? Or a veggie scramble? Or biscuits and gravy?"
"Veggies scramble, I think we've got some peppers and spinach," Jake said as he moved to the fridge.
They started making their breakfast together. Damien started chopping vegetables. Jake was not to be trusted with a knife after he cut himself last time. Jake was on egg duty.
"I swear if there is a shell in the eggs again, you are banned from the kitchen," Damien said.
"Only you would find the one tiny piece of shell and cut yourself on it," Jake replied. "Adam and Cooper said it was fine. You over reacted."
"I cut my tongue Jake, it hurt," Damien said.
"And I said I was sorry, I'll be extra careful," Jake promised.
Jake looked over to Eli. He was sleeping peacefully. He couldn't believe he and Damien had made such a cute baby. As the days passed Eli kept growing and learning new things. Everyday was an adventure.
A knock at the door interrupted their fake argument.
"And Addie is right on time," Damien said as he walked over to the door. He opened it to reveal Cooper who didn't look happy.
"Is Adam here?" Cooper asked.
"No, I was expecting you to be Adam freaking out," Damien said stepping aside for him.
"He is freaking out and he took off with the kids. He said he was coming here and you and him were gonna stay with the kids. I had to get an Uber and I'm surprised I beat him here," Cooper explained.
He walked into the kitchen and sat down at the counter.
"Well you are just in time for breakfast," Jake said.
"He does this every time we have to leave the kids for more than a day," Cooper sighed.
"So what you're saying is that it doesn't get any easier?" Damien asked.
"Not at all," Cooper replied. "I get it, I'll kiss the kids too, but it's only for a couple of days and I'm sure my mom will send up pictures constantly and Adam will call her every chance he gets."
The apartment door opened and Adam walked into the apartment. He looked surprised to see Cooper. Cooper looked for the kids, worried he didn't see them.
"I dropped the kids off," Adam said slowly.
"It'll be ok Adam-" Cooper started.
"I know I know." Adam quickly cut him off.
"Since you guys are here, help us with breakfast," Jake said.
—Happy Mistakes—
Kyle tapped his foot impatiently as he waited for Jared to return. They were getting ready for Noah and Roldy's bachelor party. They had planned one back in November, but it got cancelled after they lost the baby. Jared and Matt were determined to throw a party. They had invited a few friends up early. There was no strippers involved, it was just going to be the guys and video games and good times.
"Ok the room is all set," Jared said returning with a couple key cards.
"Great let's go set everything up," Miles said jumping up. He grabbed one of the bags at his feet. Kyle grabbed the other.
The three headed up to the suite they had booked. Miles and Kyle quickly set about setting up all the gaming equipment they had. Jared was on his phone texting someone and not helping.
"Gee, I didn't know we were your slave labor," Kyle said getting Jared's attention.
Jared looked up from his phone, slightly annoyed. "I'm taking care of something. Relax I'll help in a minute."
"What are you doing?" Miles asked.
"Taking care of something," Jared replied.
"Why so secretive?" Kyle eyed his boyfriend suspiciously.
"I'm texting Tim, he should be arriving soon and I want to make sure he's got his rooms booked and we won't have to worry about noise," Jared said.
"He's got the rooms next door?" Kyle asked.
"And across the hall," Jared replied.
"You thought of everything huh?" Miles asked.
"No, it was Tim's idea. He got the rooms for him and the rest of the band, but the girls won't arrive until tomorrow for the rehearsal dinner," Jared said.
"Where are No and Ro?" Miles asked suddenly.
"Busy, my question is where is Matt?" Kyle asked as someone knocked at the door.
"Right there." Jared jumped up and opened the door.
Matt and Tim entered the room. Tim had a suitcase of his own.
"About time Matthew, I was starting to think you ditched us," Kyle said.
"I was with Noah doing my last fitting for the wedding. You guys are next," Matt said.
"At four," Jared said.
"It's like five minutes to four already," Tim said.
"We gotta go, Noah is gonna kill us," Jared said.
"You were supposed to text us when you were done," Kyle said.
"I forgot," Matt shrugged.
"Relax, it's only in the ballroom downstairs. It's not that far," Miles said.
"Let's go," Kyle said grabbing Miles arm and leading him from the room. Jared followed them, hollering at Matt to finish setting up.
The three made their way down to the ballroom. Noah was exiting with his sisters; Trini and Jess They had shown up early with his mother and other siblings. He spotted the three and shook his head.
"We are barely late," Jared said.
"Relax Noah, they are right on time," Roldy said as he walked up to the group. "You're supposed to be at the pool with your family. We're not supposed to see each others suits yet, it's bad luck."
"I'm going," Noah said putting his hands up.
"Hey Ro where's Dede?" Jess asked.
"She got bumped from her flight again," Roldy sighed, "She's almost ready to just drive up here."
"Again?" Kyle asked.
"Yeah, now she's saying they can't get her flight until late tomorrow," Roldy said.
"No way," Miles said.
"Yeah, the joys of being working class," Roldy said.
"Well it's a lucky thing you've got me for a friend," Kyle said quickly, "are dad and pops still here?" He asked Noah.
"Yeah, but you don't gotta-" Noah started.
"Oh there is no way Dede is missing this wedding," Kyle said quickly.
"Thanks Kyle, but-" Roldy started.
"No your mom is not going to miss your wedding. Let me use my rich dads for something good." Kyle cut him off.
Kyle took off into the ballroom which was set up in a small makeshift dressing room with a couple fitting rooms. Kendall, James, Logan, and Carlos were all stood together near the mirrors talking and admiring their new suits.
"Dad we have a problem," Kyle said as he approached them.
"What now?" Kendall asked as he turned to face his son.
"Deanna got bumped from her flight again," Kyle said.
"What? This is getting ridiculous," Kendall said.
"Yeah, they can't get her on a flight until tomorrow night," Roldy said as he joined them.
"Let me see what I can do," Kendall said pulling out his phone.
"Boys I don't see you in your suits!"
Kyle turned with a grin as designer Raul Dior emerged from one of the changing rooms with a dress hand.
"Raul, about time," Kyle said running over to the designer. They air kissed each other's cheeks. "Dress me up and make me fancy."
"You sound like-" Raul started.
"If you say my dad I'll run away," Kyle cut him off.
"I was gonna say your pa," Raul said.
Kyle smiled at that one. Not many people said that. It was always about Kendall.
Miles, Jared, and Roldy joined him. Raul handed out their suits and told them to get changed, and to be snappy. He had to make sure he had enough time to fix anything.
The four quickly disappeared into the dressing rooms. As Kyle changed he realized something wasn't quite right. His pants were too big. Which was odd because a month ago he fit them perfectly. He walked out holding his pants up as they threatened to fall down.
"Raul, something isn't right here," Kyle said getting his attention.
"Not possible," Raul said.
"Yeah, these are too big," Kyle said showing him the excess on his waist.
"And mine are suddenly too small," Miles said walking out of the dressing room. "We used to be able to share clothes."
"Well maybe you need to lay off the junk food," Kyle replied pushing Miles back into the dressing room.
"You eat the same things I do," Miles said.
"I've got a high metabolism, maybe yours is finally catching up," Kyle quipped.
"Are you calling me fat?" Miles asked making an indignant face.
"Yes, now strip," Kyle said.
"If you wanted to get into my pants all you had to do was ask," Miles joked.
"I'm already in your pants," Kyle stated pointing to the pants he was wearing.
"Touché."
"If I didn't know any better I'd say you two need to bang and get it over with," Jared joked from next door.
"If you can't be a little gay with your best friend, are you even friends," Miles shot back. Jared and Roldy both started laughing.
The pair quickly swapped pants and finished getting dressed. They exited the dressing room.
"This is much better," Kyle said to Raul.
"My bad, I must've mixed them up," Raul replied. "Everything fits?"
"Like a glove," Kyle said as he admired himself in one of the mirrors. He toyed with the sleeve cuff.
Miles stepped up beside him. The pair quickly slid into a Charlie's Angels-esque pose. They stood back to back holding their hands up as if they were holding a gun.
"Badass," Miles said.
"Always," Kyle agreed.
"You guys are dorks." Jared chuckled.
"You wish you were as cool as us." Miles retorted.
"You two don't ever change," Raul said walking up to them. "Compared to all the other people I dress, you are a breath of fresh air from all the snooty rich people."
"We will never change, cause Miles refuses to grow up and he drags me down to his level." Kyle replied nudging his best friend.
"It's so much fun down here." Miles added.
Jared and Roldy admired their suits together. Kyle walked up to them.
"Do it."
"Stop," Jared said shoving the blonde lightly.
"You laugh, but look where I learned it from," Kyle said turning Jared to look at James, Logan, and Carlos. They were all doing the same thing. Kendall was still on the phone otherwise he'd be right there with them. "Stop acting like your above it. You are just as childish as us and that's why we work so well together."
Kendall finally joined them a few minutes later. He turned to Roldy.
"So, you moms got a connecting flight to LAX in forty five minutes. There's about a half hour between flights and she should be in San Francisco by tonight, where someone will pick her up," he explained.
"Thanks, it would break her heart to miss this," Roldy said smiling.
"His too," Jared aid pointing to Roldy.
"Hey, you boys are family now. I'd do it for anyone of you's. Your mom isn't going to miss your wedding," Kendall said.
"So who's gonna pick her up?" Roldy asked,
"Isn't San Francisco like a three hour drive from here?" Jared asked.
"Leave it all to me," Kendall said with a smile.
"If you all show up, it might just give her a heart attack," Roldy said catching on.
"You did say she was a fan," Kendall said with a smirk.
"Who's a fan?" James asked as joined them with Carlos and Logan.
"Roldy's mom, was a big fan of Big Time Rush," Kendall said turning, "I'm gonna pick her up from the airport. Who wants to join me."
"You say you won't let my mom miss my wedding, but if all four of you show up, she might have a heart attack," Roldy said.
"Well then it's a good thing Logan's a doctor," James said.
"I'm in," Logan said.
"Me too," Carlos added.
"It's ok, I can pick her up," Roldy said quickly.
"No you can't, we have plans," Jared said.
"What plans?" Roldy asked.
"Secret plans," Kyle said smacking Jared upside the head.
"Don't worry Roldy, we can handle it," James assured the blonde.
"Yeah, we are adults," Carlos said.
"Well some of us are," Logan said eyeing the two warily.
"I don't really have a say in this do I?" Roldy asked slowly.
"No, cause you're not leaving this resort. Matt and I have worked too hard to get this all together," Jared said.
"You? I made all the phone calls," Kyle said shoving Jared. "You sat on your ass and tired to boss Matty around."
"It was my idea," Jared replied.
"Ok enough, It's settled then, you leave this to us and just have fun tonight," Kendall said.
"Relax, everything will be fine, trust me," Jared assured Roldy.
"Famous last words," Logan said.
—Happy Mistakes—
Jake quickly made his way inside the hotel. He was texting Kyle trying to get info on where to meet them. He left Damien with Adam and Cooper. Damien had been a mess ever since they left Eli.
Jake quickly checked in and got room keys for them. He pulled his phone out again to see if Kyle has texted back yet.
"Jake!"
Jake turned as Noah ran up to him. Greeting him with a hug. It was something Jake had grown used the more he got to know Noah.
"Hey Noah, where's Kyle? He was supposed to meet us here," Jake said.
"Who knows, him and Miles are off doing something," Noah said waving a hand. "Where are the others?"
"Outside. Damien is probably calling his mom for the hundredth time today. And I should've figured Kyle was with Miles. He's not answering his phone," Jake said.
"You know I'm not always slacking off with Miles. I'm actually doing work to make sure you have your dream wedding," Kyle said as he walked up to them.
"Work?" Jake asked.
"Yes, Miles, Jared, Matty and I have been slaving away for the last two hours setting up the sound equipment in the ballroom for the reception," Kyle said. "You know, then we had to test the system and make sure it was working."
"So you took about an hour to set it up and then started goofing off," Jake asked his brother.
"What," Kyle asked feigning shock at being figured out.
"It was more like half an hour of set up," Jared said as he joined them.
"Jared!"
Jared turned as Roldy ran up to him. He looked slightly panicked. He glanced to Noah nervously.
"Jared, can I borrow you for a minute?" Roldy asked.
"What's wrong?" Noah asked.
"Uh, something I need Jared's help with," Roldy said slowly as he grabbed Jared's wrist and started to pull him away.
"Ro," Noah said sternly.
Jared froze and put his hands up. He wasn't getting in between this. Roldy gave him a glare that said traitor on it.
"Ok but promise not to freak out," Roldy said slowly.
"What happened now?" Noah asked.
"So long story short," Roldy said slowly, "our caterer was in an accident and cannot make it. Her assistant is currently trying to find someone to help her get everything done. And the photographer got sick and missed her flight in Chicago and the storm there has grounded all flights for the next day or so."
"What?" Noah asked his jaw dropping.
"Ironically the caterer was hurt while trying to take a dangerous selfie and the photographer got food poisoning," Roldy said trying to make light of the situation.
"That's not funny," Noah said.
"I said ironic, not funny," Roldy said.
"Ok relax," Jared cut in. "The caterers assistant can handle the job I'm sure. She's looking for more help. There will be food."
"That's not what I'm worried about, it's the photographer. We have the photo shoot tomorrow," Noah said quickly.
"Jake's a photographer," Kyle said quickly.
"Kyle-" Noah started.
"I am, I've been taking classes and I am considering a photojournalism degree," Jake said quickly.
"Thanks but-" Noah started.
"Noah trust me, Jake is amazing. I'm surprised he doesn't have his camera right now. Normally it's attached to his hands," Kyle said.
"That's because it's in my suitcase," Jake said.
"Seriously Noah, I wouldn't say it if I didn't think Jake could do it. He's amazing," Kyle said.
"Ok, but I would feel better if I could see some of your work," Noah said.
"I'll have to get my computer out. Let me unpack and get settled. I'll text you and we can show you what I've got," Jake said. Noah nodded his head.
"Now that that is settled, can we take this elsewhere, I think that group of girls over there might have recognized one of us," Kyle said looking across the lobby to a group of four teenage girls that were staring at them.
"It's probably you," Jared said nudging the blonde.
"No way, you guys have two albums out," Kyle said shaking his head.
"Yeah, but theirs isn't in the top ten most streamed right now," Jake replied.
"What?" Kyle asked looking to his brother shocked.
"Oh like you don't know," Jake said nudging his shoulder.
"I have looked at any of that this week. We have been so busy with last minute details and what not," Kyle said, "also Raul has all your suits in ballroom two and would like you guys to come try on and collect them."
"Got it," Jake said.
"Where's Damien and Adam?" Noah asked.
"Coop too?" Kyle added.
"Outside calling their moms to check on the kids for the hundredth time. They are all having some major separation anxiety," Jake said shaking his head.
"And you're not?" Noah asked.
"Not really, I mean I miss Eli. It's strange not having him with us, but I trust Camille. Besides she's been sending picture updates like every ten minutes," Jake shrugged. He pulled his phone out and texted Damien telling them to hurry up.
—Happy Mistakes—
"How much longer to the airport?" Carlos asked from the back seat.
"We are like ten minutes closer than the last time you asked," Kendall replied.
"Stop whining Carlos, we are almost there," James chided his best friend.
"We've been driving for like three hours I need a bathroom break," Carlos whined.
"I told you to that gas station was out last stop," Kendall said glancing in the mirror at the Latino.
"I didn't have to go then," Carlos replied.
"You sound like a child," James sighed shaking his head.
"Yeah and you sound like a dad, old man," Carlos quipped.
"Give it a rest you two," Kendall said cutting James' next reply off. "Is Logan still alive back there or did we annoy him to death?" He asked after a moment.
"I think he's sleeping," Carlos said leaning over to poke his husband.
"I'm not sleeping, how could I sleep when you three won't shut up, and don't you dare poke me Carlos," Logan warned him without opening his eyes.
"How did-?" Carlos asked.
"I know you, we've been married for twenty years now," Logan said cracking an eye open to look at his husband.
"Am I that predictable," Carlos asked.
"Yes," Kendall and James said in unison.
"I have some things to think about now," Carlos said slowly.
"Has Roldy texted yet? Has Deanna landed?" Logan asked.
James snatched Kendall's phone from the center console. He quickly unlocked it and opened Kendall's messages.
"Not yet."
"Look I can see the airport!" Carlos announced pointing out the window.
"I told you we were close," Kendall chuckled.
The rest of the ride was filled with banter and bickering. The second Kendall parked the car, James and Carlos fled. Carlos in search of a bathroom, and James to keep an eye on him. It was just like old times. Those two never changed.
Kendall shook his head as he started after them. Logan fell into step beside him.
"So," Logan said slowly.
"What?" Kendall asked knowing he had a question to ask.
"Have you talked to James about Gustavo's proposal," Logan asked.
"Have you talked to Carlos," Kendall asked in return.
"It's ridiculous," Logan said shaking his head.
"I know, but it makes sense. People were so hyped when we did the disaster relief show. Gustavo is just catering to the people and the possible money that comes with it," Kendall replied.
"I know, but we are not as young as we once were," Logan said.
"Yeah, but you gotta admit it felt amazing being up on stage again," Kendall said.
"Yeah, it did," Logan said wistfully.
"Is it bad that I wanna do it?" Kendall asked.
"You're insane," Logan shook his head.
"Maybe, but people would come. Old fans and new fans. It would be amazing," Kendall said.
"Maybe," Logan said.
Kendall got a text from James telling him where to find them. The pair continued to talk about the glory days as they walked along.
They found James sitting on a bench near a bathroom. Kendall quickly joined him with a smile. Logan sat down as well as they waited. It was long before Carlos emerged. Kendall led them all towards the baggage claim. He quickly scanned the arrival board looking for Deanna's flight. His phone buzzed with a text from Roldy.
"So the plane has landed and they are taxing right now," Kendall said looking at his phone.
"And they will be at the baggage claim 10," James said pointing to the board.
"Let's go wait," Kendall said.
The four quickly found the right baggage claim. Kendall looked around as they waited. He then realized he had never met Deanna in person and it was useless to look around.
"Have you even met Deanna?" James asked.
"Actually no," Kendall admitted.
"Great," Carlos sighed.
"I mean she probably would recognize us, Roldy did say she was a fan," Logan said cynically.
"I guess I should've asked Roldy for a picture or something ," Kendall replied.
"Right cause she would never know that her son tricked her and we actually came to pick her up. I mean it's not like your his boss or something," Logan said.
"Will you stop being so cynical all the time," Kendall asked, "you've been such a grouch lately."
"I am not," Logan said glaring at the blonde.
"Its because he ain't getting any," Carlos laughed.
"Carlos-" Logan started.
"You get a little cranky when-" Carlos started.
"Guys-" James said trying to get their attention. They were too absorbed in their own conversation.
"Stop," Logan said his face turning red.
"Ok enough," Kendall cut in. "This is not the time or place. We are waiting for Roldy's mom. This is not the first impression I want to make on her."
"I'm not the one who's keeping it going," Logan said turning to Kendall.
James shook his head as they continued to argue, Carlos just egging them on. Neither of them noticed that Deanna had arrived. James sighed and walked over to her with a smile.
"You must be Deanna," James said loudly, still not getting the attention of others.
"I take it Roldy's not here," Deanna replied.
"No, I'm James, the fool yelling is my husband; Kendall, and the two egging him on are our friends Carlos and Logan," James said drawing the others attention.
"Why am I always last?" Logan asked annoyed.
"Because I know it bugs you," James replied with a grin.
"I'm so sorry," Kendall said shaking his head. "Roldy couldn't make it, Jared and Matty commandeered him and Noah for the night. I hope you don't mind."
"I should've figured something was up when Roldy wouldn't take my phone call," Deanna chuckled.
"Yeah, they were busy so we decided to help out," Carlos said giving a slight bow.
"So you probably had a long day in the airport and a boring flight, let's say we get out of here," Kendall said offering her his arm. Deanna smiled and took his arm.
—Happy Mistakes—
Kyle tapped his foot as he waited for Roldy. Miles and Matt has already kidnapped Noah. Jared was taking his good old time fetching Roldy. He was sitting on his phone waiting. He heard Jake and Adam before he saw them.
"Adam you've gotta stop."
"Jake my babies are hundreds of miles away," Adam said dramatically.
"And they are fine, you are making Damien worse," Jake said.
"I resent that," Damien said.
"How can you be so heartless Jake?" Adam asked.
Kyle stood up and ran over to them. They were supposed to be gone already. Cooper was the first to see him. He just shrugged.
"I've been trying to get them to leave for like twenty minutes now," Cooper said.
"We are going, and I'm taking their phones away," Jake promised.
"You guys be cool. This is a bachelor party and your kids are fine. You don't need to keep checking in on them, let's just have fun tonight," Kyle said.
"You don't understand," Adam said quickly.
Kyle's face fell. Adam quickly realized his mistake. Jake looked between the two scared. Kyle thought of Sophia for the first time this week. A knot formed in his stomach as he realized had she been here, he would probably be doing the same thing.
"No, Adam I don't understand, care to elaborate," Kyle said coolly.
Adam floundered as he tried to stammer an apology. Kyle turned to leave only to run into Jared and Roldy. They both looked confused.
"About time, let's go," Kyle said quickly. He brushed past them and headed outside. He didn't listen as Jake and Adam called out to him.
"Kyle."
Jared and Roldy ran after him. Kyle made it outside to the car before Jared caught him.
"Kyle what happened," Jared asked.
"Nothing let's go," Kyle said as he slid into the back seat.
Jared and Roldy shared a look before they got into the car. They didn't say a word to Kyle. The drive was spent in tense silence. Roldy finally broke the silence by asking where they were going.
"Relax Ro, we aren't doing anything inappropriate," Jared said, "we are going to dinner and then back to the hotel room for the rest of the evening."
"Just the three of us?" Roldy asked.
"You're ruining the surprise," Jared said shooting his best friend a glare.
"Eyes on the road Monroe," Kyle said from the back seat.
"So what happened back there, should we have invited your brothers along?" Jared asked changing the subject.
"I over reacted, but Adam doesn't think before he talks," Kyle said slowly as he looked out the window.
"You gotta give us more than that," Roldy said.
"Adam and Damien keep calling the kids. I asked them to chill, the kids were fine. Adam then said I didn't understand, which I don't, but it just made me think about-" Kyle cut himself off. He still couldn't say her name.
"It's ok to still be hurting," Jared said.
Kyle didn't say a word. He kept looking out the window. He knew it hadn't been that long, but he hadn't thought about her all week. He had been so busy with the wedding, putting out fires, and making sure that Noah and Roldy were happy. He felt a tinge of guilt for not thinking about her.
They arrived at their destination. A large steakhouse that boasted the best steak around. They were going to have a nice dinner with the guys and then head back to the hotel for some video games and fun.
Jared jumped out and ran ahead to go check on the table. Roldy hung back with Kyle. Kyle knee he wanted to say something, he just wished Roldy wouldn't. He didn't want to talk about this right now. Not with Roldy, not with Jared, not with anyone.
"I can't imagine what you're going through, but if you ever need someone to talk to, we are all here for you, me, Noah, and Matty," he said.
"Thanks Ro, I just...I need time," Kyle sighed.
"Adam is coming this way, want me to send him away?" Roldy asked.
"No, you go," Kyle said shaking his head.
Roldy left and Adam slowly walked up to him. He gave Kyle and awkward smile.
"I'm sorry, I didn't mean-" Adam started.
"No I'm sorry," Kyle cut him off. "I know you didn't mean it like that, and I just...I know I would be the same way if she were here. That's what really upset me. I mean it's been a month and a half and it still hurts as if it were yesterday."
"It's gonna hurt, for a long time. It will be little things that set you off too," Adam said nodding his head.
"Are we cool then?" Kyle asked.
"Yeah, I'll try and be more mindful." Adam nodded his head.
"You guys aren't going to kill each other are you?" Jake was approaching them.
"No we're good. Now let's go inside and remember this night is about No and Ro," Kyle said looking between his brothers. He stopped on Jake. "I mean it."
"Why are you looking at me?" Jake asked.
"You know why," Kyle replied. He then took off inside before Jake could retort.
Jared and Roldy were already talking with Tim, Damien, and Cooper. Kyle quickly joined them. Jared smiled as he greets him.
"Our table is almost ready," Roldy said.
"Have the others shown up yet?" Kyle asked.
"No, I just texted Matty and they might be a little lost," Jared said shaking his head.
"Of course they are, Miles was probably trying to navigate and got them lost," Kyle sighed.
"He doesn't know his left from his right," Adam piped in.
The hostess returned with a smile. She grabbed a stack of menus and told the group to follow her. She led them toward the back or the restaurant, towards a couple of tables that were pushed together. There were glasses of water and ice water pitchers set out already. The section of the restaurant seemed empty.
"So this section is closed off for the remainder of the evening as long as you guys are here. There will be only your party and your waitress," the hostess said. She set out the menus and told them their waitress would be along shortly.
"Private?" Kyle asked looking to Jared.
Tim put his hand up, "That was me, she recognized us the second we walked in, I just don't wanna put up with it all night. Tonight is about Noah and Roldy, not stopping every five second to take a picture with fans."
"Smart," Kyle nodded his head.
"This isn't my first rodeo, kid," Tim replied.
"Watch who you're calling kid," Kyle said.
"Ok fight nice you two," Jared chuckled as he steered Kyle to a seat.
"I am being nice," Kyle and Tim replied together. They both laughed at that.
Everyone settled around the table. They started talking and laughing. Roldy looked around. He was searching for Noah and the others. He was starting to get a little worried.
"I wonder what's taking Matty so long," Jared wondered out loud.
"He probably let Miles navigate," Kyle said taking a sip of his water.
"Is that a bad thing?" Roldy asked confused.
"Only if you wanna get where you going quickly," Adam replied.
"Miles has a knack for getting people lost," Jake added.
"Very easily because he doesn't know how to give directions," Kyle said.
"I know how to give directions you just don't listen," Miles said as he walked up to the group with Matt and Noah behind him.
"Turn this way on that road," Kyle replied.
"That's exactly what he did and we ended up outside of town on some back road," Matt said.
"I was told to distract Noah," Miles defended himself as he took a seat next to Kyle.
"Oh I was distracted all right, I was so sure you were gonna get us killed out on some back country road," Noah replied as he sat down next to Roldy with a smile.
"Spoken like a true pop star Noah," Jared chuckled.
"You don't understand," Noah and Matt said together. They shared and look and chuckled.
"Oh come on, it wasn't that bad," Miles said.
"You has us on someone's private property," Noah said.
"With a sign that read trespassers will be shot!" Matt added.
"Ok, now you're just being over dramatic, we turned around quickly and nobody saw," Miles replied.
"You are the worst," Kyle said shaking his head.
Their waitress arrived and took drink and appetizer orders. The guys continued to talk and laugh. Soon food arrived and everyone started eating and talking mostly about Noah and Roldy. How they had all met, sharing stories and just general excitement for the wedding. Conversations overlapped and everyone was having a good time. Drinks were ordered and a good time was had. Noah and Roldy even got a special dessert on the house.
When the bill came there was a slight argument between Matt and Jared with Tim who ended up paying telling them to cover the tip. Everyone, except Noah and Roldy pitched in for the tip.
"Isn't this a bit excessive?" Miles asked looking at the tip.
"No, we took her entire section and most of her night," Kyle said.
"Yeah and some of us were a little demanding," Jake said giving Miles a look.
"I will not apologize for not liking pickles on my burger. I specifically asked for no pickles," Miles said, "and I was nice about it."
"Actually he was, he normally makes a scene and screeches about how taking the pickles off doesn't work because all the juices have soaked in and it's like they are still there," Kyle said.
"He gets it," Miles said pointing at Kyle.
"I don't get it, I just know you too well by this point," Kyle sighed.
Once the meal was paid for and everything settled the guys left the restaurant and headed back to the hotel. Kyle and Jared led everyone up to the suite they had booked for the night. They had set up gaming central with several consoles and TVs. Jared and Tim had managed to get their hands on some booze.
The bachelor party officially commenced with gaming and drinking. They had several different games going. Everyone was drinking and having fun. Jake, Adam, and Kyle all came to an agreement to look the other way about Kyle and Miles age.
"I think it's time for our first tournament of the night," Matt announced jumping up. He swayed a bit as everyone laughed.
"Is this your tournament?" Noah asked knowingly.
"Of course, we've all got one picked out," Matt said looking to Jared, Kyle and Miles.
"You've obviously picked Mario Kart," Roldy said.
"Duh," Matt said, "rules are simple. Top three don't have to drink. Losers do. Anything less than tenth place takes double."
Noah looked to Jared. He wanted to know his options.
"Zombie Attack 3, race to the finish. Losers taking shots at each checkpoint," Jared said.
"I went a little more classic with Call of Duty. Team matches winners make the shots for losers," Miles said.
"And lastly we have Smash Brothers. Two man team tournament," Kyle said.
"So which will it be?" Jared asked.
"Let's start with call of Duty while we are still mostly sober, and can still make a shot," Roldy said.
"Agreed," Noah said.
The guys quickly got everyone set up and into the same game. The killing commenced immediately. The guys went back and forth for almost an hour switching up teams and making the losers some pretty bad shots.
"Ha!" Kyle cheered as he killed Miles again. He quickly poured a shot of tequila and shoved it at Miles. "Drink up."
"You know I hate tequila," Miles whined.
"Take the shot wimp," Kyle teased.
Miles glared as he took his shot. "I will get you back," he threatened.
"Miles I've killed you in every round so far. Just face it I'm better than you," Kyle said.
"Never!" Miles declared.
"Alright, I think it's time to move on," Noah declared jumping up. He swayed a bit as he stood.
"Slow down there Noah," Roldy said steadying his fiancé.
"I think we need to move on to Mario Kart, and I will kick your ass," he said turning to Roldy.
"You're on," Roldy said.
The guys quickly switched games. The competition was on. The trash talk got worse and the drinks kept flowing. It wasn't long before they grew bored and decided to move onto smash brothers. All they had to do was pick teams.
"No and Ro you guys get first picks," Jared said as Kyle and Matt set up the game.
"I've got a bracket set up, all we gotta do is pick teams and I can get it all set up," Kyle said jumping up. "We do have an uneven number of people someone might have to take a computer as his teammate and we will up the level of the computer to make it a challenge."
"No-" Roldy started.
"I choose Kyle," Noah said quickly.
"What?" Roldy asked shocked.
"Sorry Ro, but I wanna win and Kyle it the best, aside from me," Noah said apologetically.
"I'm hurt," Roldy said.
"I guess that means it's you and me," Jared said.
"Matt," Roldy said quickly.
Jared's jaw dropped in shock as Matt laughed. Teams were picked, Miles chose Tim because he wanted to see if he was any good. Adam and Damien quickly teamed up, promising domination. That just left, Jared, Jake, and Cooper.
"I'll take the computer," Cooper said putting a hand up.
"Rude," Jake said glaring at Cooper.
"No offense Jake, but you suck, and Jared if they don't want you, I can only assume you're not that good either. I'll take my chance with the computer," Cooper said.
"You know what, Jake and I are gonna kick your asses," Jared said.
"Yes, we will," Jake said jumping up.
"We're coming for you Noah," Jared said pointing at the brunette.
Noah just laughed and waved him off. Kyle quickly told everyone who they were facing in the first round, and that it was double elimination. The tournament started. Everyone picked sides. They were laughing and trash talking, doing anything to get in each others heads.
"What was that Jared, I thought you were coming for me," Noah joked as Jared and Jake lost a round.
"It's double elimination Noah, just you wait," Jake said seriously.
Soon it was down to the final four. It was Kyle and Noah versus Roldy and Matt, and Jared and Jake versus Cooper and the computer. Everyone was laughing and picking sides.
"You're gonna regret this Coop," Jake said.
"Bring it, I stand by my decision," Cooper replied.
"You're going down Noah," Matt stated as their match started on the other side of the room.
The next five minutes were tense as the kill counts for all teams shot up. Kyle and Noah one by three kills. Roldy and Matt tossed their controls down and put their hands up and bowed to the pair. Noah and Kyle quickly poured the losers their shots and did a small victory dance. They all turned to watch the end of the other match.
The kill count was close. Jake managed to tie it before the time ended. It went to sudden death with Jake and Cooper. Everyone had gathered round as the two dodged each other.
"Jake, you've got this," Jared said from beside the eldest Knight.
"Not a chance Knight," Cooper said trying to get into his head.
"It's Saunders thank you very much," Jake replied.
"Whatever, I'm still gonna win," Cooper said as his character lunged at Jake.
Jake took the chance and went for the kill. He hit his mark as Cooper's character shot off the screen.
"Did we just win?" Jake asked his eyes wide.
"Yes, you did it," Jared said jumping up.
Jake's jaw dropped as did Cooper's. He couldn't believe that he had lost to Jake. He gracefully accepted his shot from Jake though. Kyle and Noah were amazed that Jake and Jared had made it this far. It hadn't been expected that was for sure.
"Alright Noah, time to eat your words," Jared said turning towards the brunette. "Let's make this interesting," he said pulling his wallet out.
"I thought Ro-" Noah started.
"I got it back the other night remember," Jared said.
"Deal," Noah said pulling his wallet out.
"What's this?" Jake asked confused.
"They all share a couple different rewards cards for different websites, they make a bet and swap them around all the time," Kyle explained.
"Ok let's get this started," Matt said.
The guys all grabbed their controllers. Noah set up the game. Once the characters were selected, and the rules set, the game started. Kyle and Noah quickly set about taking on Jared. He was the main problem.
"Ok this isn't fair, you're ganging up on me," Jared said nudging Kyle.
"Stop cheating," Kyle said nudging him back.
"Come on Kyle focus," Noah said.
They went back and forth. The kill count rose higher and higher. It was pretty close. Kyle and Noah were ahead by two kills with one minute left to go. Jared peeked at Kyle, and then to Jake. He wanted the win, but Kyle wasn't going to let it go so easily.
"Jake I believe in you, take Noah out," Jared said as he turned and tackled Kyle. Kyle let out a yelp and dropped his controller.
"Cheater!" Kyle said.
"It wasn't in the rules, no one said I couldn't," Jared hollered as he attempted to keep Kyle from his controller.
"Time!" The game shouted.
Jake jumped up excited as his player appeared on the screen. Noah was in utter shock.
"No way, that's not fair," Kyle said shoving Jared off him. He jumped up.
"Hey, it was never stated in the rules that I couldn't," Jared said again as he stood up as well.
"He's got you there," Matt said.
The guys all laughed as Jared turned to Miles. "I'm gonna defer this shot to Miles," he said.
"No-" Kyle started.
It was too late as Miles jumped up. He grabbed a bottle. Kyle groaned as Miles grabbed a bottle of Whiskey. Miles grinned and shoved the bottle at the blonde.
"Pay back," Miles said.
"I hate you." Kyle glared at Jared.
"No you don't," Jared replied with a grin.