Chapter 32: No Strings Attached
Jake yawned as he watched Damien. It had been over a week now since he had woken up. Jake was really starting to worry. Logan had assured him that everything was fine. His body was healing. It took time to heal internal damage. If Damien was lucky he wouldn't be in the hospital too long.
"You look like you could use a pick me up."
Jake turned as Adam walked into the room carrying two coffee cups. He held one out to Jake. Jake smiled as he took the cup.
"It's a soy latte, with a pump of hazelnut and vanilla," Adam said.
"You're awesome," Jake said as he took a sip.
"I know, I try," Adam laughed. He grabbed a chair and pulled one up beside Jake. "So, anything new?"
"No, they have completely weaned him off the medicine that was keeping him in a coma, so now it's up to him on when he wants to wake up," Jake said, "how's Eli?"
"Good, the kids are with pops, he's so happy to have them all," Adam chuckled.
"I think he loves being a grandpa." Jake nodded his head.
"Oh yeah, no question about that," Adam agreed.
The two lapsed into silence as they looked to Damien. Jake wanted him to wake up so bad. He missed having him home with him. The last two weeks had been so strange. Eli didn't seem to even notice the change in things. He was too young to notice.
"So, how are things with...your uh…" Adam trailed off.
"Postpartum?" Jake asked.
"Yeah that," Adam said nodding his head.
"Better, I've been taking some medication and seeing a therapist. It really helps," Jake said nodding his head, "also this last week it's been just me and Eli and we've been bonding."
"That's good," Adam said nodding his head.
"Before I would look at him and not feel like we connected. I was jealous that Damien made it all look so easy. I was scared that I didn't love my baby, but now...there is no question there," Jake said.
"Good I'm glad you got help," Adam said.
"Yeah, thanks to Kyle." Jake nodded his head.
"Kyle?"
"He was actually the first person I told," Jake admitted.
"Oh," Adam said shocked. Normally he was the first one Jake went to with his problems.
"I don't know, we were talking over Christmas break. He helped me get the courage to tell Damien and he was complaining about dad and pops putting pressure on him to do good in school and to keep up with his music too," Jake said.
"Can I say that senior year was the worst because of them and the pressure to go to college," Adam said, shaking his head. "It's part of the reason I ran away."
"Yeah, I told him that was why I fell in with Marty too, because dad and pop's expectations can be a bit much at times. I'm surprised Leora hasn't said anything yet," Jake said.
"Oh please, she's the good one. She had college applications done in October," Adam said waving a hand.
"True, plus she's like a straight-A student," Jake agreed.
"So, do you think Camille and Steve are gonna tell him?" Adam asked looking over at Damien.
Jake turned his attention back to Damien as well. He wasn't sure what was going to happen once he woke up. Steve and Camille had been visiting all week as well, but they were never together. They never spoke about the little revelation, but they kept up small talk.
"I hope they tell him, otherwise I might. I mean he will be mad at them, but if I wait too long, he will be mad that we didn't tell him sooner," Jake said.
"True, everyone knows now too," Adam said.
"Yeah," Jake sighed.
They fell silent again. Neither knew what to say. There was no way that Damien could be kept in the dark any longer. Even if Steve and Camille didn't tell him someone was bound to slip up sooner or later. There was no keeping this a secret anymore. Too many people knew the truth.
"Why do I feel like a bus hit me?"
Jake and Adam paused and turned to Damien. He was looking at them confused. They both jumped up and moved to his side.
"You're close, it was a pickup truck," Adam joked.
"I don't remember that," Damien said weakly.
Jake hit the nurse call light. "We were in an accident, what do you remember?" Jake asked.
"Not much," Damien admitted.
"Dude, it's been like ten years, Eli is all grown up and you wouldn't even recognize him," Adam joked.
"Shut up Adam," Jake said glaring at his brother.
"Come on, Day would do the same thing to me," Adam said.
"I would," Damien confirmed with a weak chuckle. His chuckle turned to a grimace of pain.
"You were out almost two weeks," Jake said.
A nurse and a doctor came into the room. THey looked only slightly surprised to see Damien awake. They asked Jake and Adam to step out for a minute while they did a quick evaluation. Damien assured Jake it was fine and Adam had to pull him from the room.
-Happy Mistakes-
Kyle tapped his foot impatiently with a sigh. He was waiting to see the doctor. He had let James talk him into seeing a doctor. There was nothing wrong, he just had a high metabolism. He had even promised to go with Kyle to make things a little easier. However, James was babysitting the grandkids today, so that meant Kendall was here with him. They were both taking time off from work for this.
"How much longer?" Kyle asked looking at the time again.
"Relax Kyle," Kendall chuckled.
"I could be at the studio recording," Kyle said.
"Your health is more important," Kendall said.
"Nothing is wrong, I just have a high metabolism. I haven't changed anything about the way I eat or exercise, I really haven't. Why do I have to be here?" Kyle asked annoyed.
"You're losing a lot of weight Kyle, we just want to make sure that nothing is medically wrong," Kendall said.
"Fine," Kyle sighed, as he pulled his phone out. He started playing games to distract himself. He kept his eyes on his phone. He knew Kendall wanted to talk, but he didn't want to.
"You know-" Kendal started.
"Nope," Kyle said holding his phone up closer to his face. He was playing games. He was t talking right now.
"Really?" Kendall asked.
Kyle remained silent. He didn't want to talk.
"I pay your phone bill," Kendall said simply.
Kyle huffed a sigh and lowered it. He looked over at him. He didn't want to talk right now. It was going to be about one thing.
"Kyle, we are worried about you. You're closing everyone off and you're losing a lot of weight. I think the stress is getting to you," Kendall said.
"Oh I know it's getting to me," Kyle replied as he slumped in his seat. This was the exact conversation he wanted to avoid.
Lately it seemed all Kendall could talk about was taking it easy. Not stressing too much and taking less responsibility at work. He was always trying to get Kyle to leave early or do less. On the other hand there was James who was nagging him about his weight and eating right. He was a bit more subtle than Kendall, but he would always give Kyle a bit more food than others, or try and get him alone so they could talk.
"Look I know it seems like we are on you a lot," Kendall started.
"Seems like? You are on my back all the time," Kyle said.
"We do it because we love you and we care about you," Kendall said.
"Yeah, yeah, meanwhile Leora can break curfew and run around town without you calling her once while I get calls every hour sometimes," Kyle said.
"I call your sister too," Kendall said.
"Not as much as me, we compared our phones the other night and I have almost three times as many calls from you and pops than her," Kyle said.
"We work together. A lot of those are work calls," Kendall replied.
"Not as many as you would think," Kyle said.
"Kyle Knight?"
Kyle looked up as the nurse called his name. He jumped up. "This will be finished later."
"You don't want me coming with," Kendall asked.
"I'd have come alone here if you would have let me," Kyle replied. He walked away leaving Kendall confused.
—Happy Mistakes—
Miles tapped his foot as he waited for Jayda to return with his smoothie. Miles had invited her to hang out since Kyle was busy today. He wouldn't tell Miles where he was going just that Kendall and James were making him and he would call him later.
"One pink smoothie for you," Jayda said as she walked up to him. She handed over the smoothie.
"Thanks," Miles said quickly, taking a sip. "So what's up? What's new?"
The pair started walking along as they sipped their smoothies.
"Actually there is something I've been meaning to tell you," Jayda said slowly.
"Oh my god you're pregnant," Miles gasped, stopping dead in his tracks.
"No, I don't like dick remember?" Jayda replied, shaking her head.
"Sorry, I've been spending too much time with Kyle and his family. It seems like someone sneezes and they get pregnant," Miles replied.
"I know, they are quite the fertile bunch," Jayda laughed.
"Anyways, you were saying," Miles said, redirecting the conversation. He started walking again. Jayda fell into stride beside him.
"I'm sort of seeing someone," Jayda said.
"Sort of?" Miles asked confused.
"Well we met in Paris a few months back and we have been texting and video chatting all the time. She wants to come to LA to spend time together," Jayda said.
"What? That's amazing," Miles said, "is she French? Name? Job? Like who is she?" He asked rapidly.
"Her name is Claire and she is from Paris but her dad is American so she's spent a lot of time stateside to see family. She is a photographer and we met on the job. She's amazing. We've gone on like two real dates, but they were so amazing and like I can't get her out of my head," Jayda said.
"Ah, you're in love," Miles cooed.
"I think I am," Jayda admitted with a small smile.
"Good, you deserve it Jay, and I look forward to meeting her if she comes to LA," Miles said smiling at her.
"Yeah, but like I'm super nervous about her coming to LA. What if my parents don't like her? What if she doesn't like them? What if she doesn't like you or Kyle?" Jayda asked seriously.
"Then you will have a choice to make, but like who doesn't love Kyle. He could charm his way out of detention," Miles said, "let's be real I'm the one you gotta worry about. I'm the real weirdo here."
"That was awesome, and you're right everyone loves him. It's probably why his album went platinum so fast," Jayda replied.
"Yeah, he's irresistible," Miles replied, glancing away from her.
"Something you wanna tell me?" Jayda asked.
"What?" Miles asked.
"Boy do I look dumb, ever since I got back you two...something is different and Kyle keeps dodging the question," Jayda said.
"I mean we got closer after everything with Sophie and then during the wedding we had those girls sneak into our room and that freaked him out. It seemed to bring back his anxiety and we have been working through that together. I'm his rock and he's mine," Miles said avoiding her gaze. "He's my best friend and I would do anything for him."
He was dodging the question too. He didn't want to talk about it. What was happening with him and Kyle was complicated. To Kyle it was purely physical. It was about getting off and the thrill of sneaking around.
To Miles it was more than that. It was a thrill to sneak around, but it was also fun to have someone he could be goofy with, and then flip a switch and be sexy with. Kyle was his perfect opposite. It was like something finally clicked. He could feel safe in his own skin around Kyle. He didn't feel judged or like he was a waste of space. With Kyle things were different, until he left to go be with Jared, his actual boyfriend.
"Miles-" Jayda started.
"You're my best friend too Jay, but like in a different way, a good way," Miles said quickly.
"I didn't mean to accuse, and I know I am," Jayda said quickly.
"We are growing up and things are changing. Like I said losing Sophie changed him, hell it changed all of us," Miles said.
"I'm sorry I wish I was around more-" Nayda started.
"No, you are living your dream. You have your dream job and you are traveling the world. We don't want you to stop," Miles said, "who knows by this time next year we could be traveling with you."
"Promise?" Jayda asked.
"If this college thing doesn't pan out yeah, the three of us should take a vacation," Miles said.
"If Kyle isn't too busy with his music and his boyfriend," Jayda joked.
"Oh I'll make him make time," Miles promised.
They continued to walk and talk. Miles did his best to make her laugh and keep the subjects light. He hated lying to her, but he wasn't going to out Kyle like that. He wasn't ready to tell anyone yet either, especially when he wasn't sure what was even going on anymore. Kyle told him it was fun, no strings attached, but slowly those strings were forming. Miles was getting attached and he hated himself for it. Kyle didn't feel the same way he did. Otherwise he would have broken up with Jared by now. Things were too complicated.
Eventually they left the mall parting ways, with Jayda promising to hang out more.
The drive home Miles couldn't help but think about Kyle. What did they have? Would he ever really leave Jared?
—Happy Mistakes—
Leora yawned as she picked up toys in the living room. She had volunteered to help James watch the kids after school. Adam and Cooper had just picked up Miri and Kenny. Jake had picked up Eli a while ago. Damien was awake and Jake was taking him to visit at Damien's request. From what Leora had gathered Camille hadn't told Damien the truth yet, and Steve hadn't been there yet either.
"Le," James said, walking back into the room with Jenny toddling behind him. She looked up at him. "Thanks for the help today."
"No problem, I don't have much homework and I had nothing to do," Leora said, "being the only single friend sucks cause everyone is off with their significant other leaving me with no plans. I'm so pathetic." She said.
"You are not," James said, shaking his head.
"Yeah I kind of am, I don't do anything anymore. Everyone is always too busy and I hate being third wheel on a date," Leora said shaking her head.
She sat down on the couch. James joined her and Jenny started pulling all her toys out again. Leora just groaned at her sister.
"If you're that lonely get out there, but don't just date someone because you're bored either," James said.
"I know, but I don't think I'll be dating anytime soon," Leora replied.
"You do what you gotta do. I just want you to be happy. I do agree that dating can wait until after college," James teased.
"At this rate I'll be single til I'm twenty," Leora said.
"Why so old?" James joked.
"Because the guy I thought liked me is kind of seeing some else because with was too stupid to see what was right there in front of me," Leora sighed hanging her head.
"In front of you?" James asked.
"Have you ever looked at your best friend and realized oh it's you, you're the one I've been looking for?" Leora asked.
"Have I never told you about how your dad and I got together at eighteen after we had been friends since we were like five?" James asked.
"Too many times, but you get what I'm saying," Leora said. James nodded his head and gestured for her to continue. "Well I had that moment and it freaked me out. I told him he was like a brother to me and I ran in the opposite direction."
"Are we talking about…" James trailed off as he tried to piece this puzzle together.
"Miles," Leora replied looking down at her lap. It was the first time she had acknowledged it out loud. She had avoided it for so long. It was strange to say it. "But like I can't date him, he's Kyle's best friend. It would be so weird and besides he is already kind of seeing someone. I just...I missed my chance and like it sucks."
"You are describing the whole Lucy and Jo situation I went through with your dad," James replied, placing an arm around her. "Maybe you should tell him how you feel. He can either reject you and you can move on, or you two can test out the waters a bit."
"Didn't you hear me, he's seeing someone else," Leora said.
"Is it official?" James asked.
"No, he hasn't introduced anyone to us," Leora replied.
"Then I say go for it. If he's not serious about this person go for it. Sometimes you gotta be bold and take what you want," James told her. "I did that with your dad. He was torn over two people and I finally told him how I really felt. It worked out for me, but don't get your hopes up either. Sometimes you gotta crash and burn. It's how we learn. Trust me you don't want to spend your life wondering what could have been."
Leora paused as she let those words sink in. Maybe she did need to put herself out there. She had to shoot her shot. That was the only way she would know for sure if he truly liked her back, and if he didn't then maybe she could finally move on from this silly crush.
"Thanks pops," she said smiling at him.
"No problem, now can you keep an eye on your sister while I go start supper? Your dad and brother should be home soon," James said glancing at the time. Leora nodded her head.
James left the room. Leora looked over at Jenny. She had already pulled all her toys back out. Leora gave a small chuckle. She should have known better than to expect Jenny to keep her toys put away.
Leora gave in and joined her sister on the floor. She became the toy box as Jenny loaded her lap with toys. She laughed and played with Jenny. Happy that her sister was happy.
She couldn't help but think about what she had just confessed to James. She hadn't told anyone about her crush on Miles. Maybe Lilly or Kyle suspected something, but if they did they didn't say anything to her. Leora had also noticed over their winter vacation Miles had been flirting with her, but lately it had stopped. She missed it, maybe that was why she wanted to ask him out.
Play time was interrupted when the front door slammed and shouting was heard. Kendall and Kyle were home. Kyle seemed upset about something. That had become the new normal for him. They were always butting heads lately, usually over something that happened at work.
Leora jumped up telling Jenny to play and that she would be back. She exited the living room as James walked down the hallway as well.
"What have I said about bringing work home," James said, interrupting the argument.
"This isn't about work," Kyle said, turning to James.
"What then are we arguing about now?" James asked.
"He's mad that I didn't let him come back with me for my appointment," Kyle said.
"He's being a brat," Kendall said, shaking his head.
"I know my rights, I asked Logan. HIPAA protects my information. I told you what you need to know," Kyle said.
"Kyle," James sighed.
"What I told him everything is fine, he found nothing wrong. It was a normal exam and he had some labs drawn and we have to wait for the results which he is sure are gonna be normal," Kyle said.
"Why were you being so secretive when you came out," Kendall asked.
"Because I was making another appointment. It's my business and I don't have to tell you anything. Go ask Logan, he will tell you," Kyle said.
"You're hiding something," Kendall said.
"I'm not, I just made a follow up appointment to get the lab results," Kyle said.
"When?" James said.
"That's for me to know," Kyle replied as he started down the hallway.
"Supper is almost ready," James said.
"Well, when it's ready let me know. I'll be in my room," Kyle said as he took off up the stairs.
Leora looked at Kendall and James. They seemed like they wanted to go after him. Leora held her hand up, stopping them. They both gave her a confused look.
"I got this, Jenny is in the living room," Leora said as she took off after her brother.
She paused outside his bedroom door. She knocked and entered his room not waiting for an answer. Kyle was on his phone. He paused as he turned to her
"Are you talking to Jared already?" Leora asked as she walked over to his desk. She sat down on the desk before him.
"Noah, I gotta go," Kyle said into his phone. "Leora is being nosey."
"Hardly, you're being a butthead," Leora replied.
Kyle rolled his eyes as he listened to Noah. He nodded his head. "I know Noah, I'll see you guys when you get back this weekend. Have fun."
Kyle said another quick goodbye and hung up. He grabbed his desk chair and sat down in front of her. He quirked an eyebrow at her.
"Are they out of town?" Leora asked.
"Yeah, they are heading to San Diego to help out a friend," Kyle said.
"A friend?" Leora asked.
"You know that YouTube baker, Rose Mancino?" Kyle asked.
"Oh my god I love Ro! They are friends with her?" Leora asked, shocked.
"Yeah, Noah dated her in high school, but they are great friends now. Even Ro is friends with her," Kyle said, "anyways they are going to be shooting some videos with ehr baking and she's going to go on an adventure with them this weekend for Noah's vlog."
"That's awesome," Leora said excitedly.
"So why did you follow me? Did dad send you up here," Kyle asked looking up at her.
"No, I stopped them from coming up here," Leora replied. Kyle just nodded his head. "So, what's up? Why were you arguing?"
"Keep a secret? Just for a little while," Kyle asked softly.
"What?" Leora asked.
"I set up a therapy appointment too," Kyle admitted, "I am not ready to tell them just yet."
"Why?" Leora asked, confused.
"Because they will make this all about them," Kyle replied, looking away from her. "They will talk about how they failed to see that I needed help. They will be failures as parents because they can't help me. I just...I'm not ready for all that drama right now."
"Mums the word," Leora promised, "but you have to tell them soon."
Kyle nodded his head again. He sighed as he hung his head. Leora watched him for a moment. He really did have the weight of the world on his shoulder, or he at least thought he did. His phone rang startling them.
"It's probably Jared missing you already," Leora teased.
"Probably," Kyle chuckled. He answered the video call. Jared's face appeared on the screen.
"So I'm in trouble," Jared said in greeting.
"Already? That was fast," Kyle laughed.
"What did you do now?" Leora asked leaning into frame for Jared to see her. Jared gave her a wave.
"I didn't bring Kyle with me," Jared said as laughter was heard in the background.
"I have school tomorrow," Kyle said.
Jared's phone was snatched. A petite brunette appeared in the frame. Her hair was busy and her eyes a bright honey brown. She smiled and greeted him and Leora who went into fangirl mode.
"What are you doing this weekend?" Rose asked.
"Homework," Kyle replied.
"Come to San Diego," Rose said, "I would love to have you on the show too. I told Jared to bring you, but he doesn't listen to instructions that well."
"You said to bring him if he wasn't busy and he's busy trying to graduate high school," Jared said.
"Can I bring Leora?" Kyle asked, pointing to his sister.
"Of course, the more the merrier," Rose said, "can you bake? Either of you?"
"I can," Leroa said, snatching the phone. "Are we gonna be in one of your videos?"
"Yes, I would love to have you both," Rose said.
"Awesome, we will be there," Leroa said.
"Can I have my phone back?" Jared asked.
"No, you see him all the time I want to talk to Kyle for a bit," Rose said.
"Yeah, Jared time apart makes the heart grow fonder or something," Kyle laughed.
"You're words are hurtful, I hope you know that," Jared joked. Everyone started laughing.
-Happy Mistakes-
Kendall glanced in the direction of Kyle and Leora upstairs. He was in the kitchen with James and Jenny. Jenny was in her high chair having her pre-dinner snack of fruit puffs. James was finishing up supper. They hadn't said much since Leora had left.
"He's hiding something," Kendall said finally.
"Let it go Kendall, he's an adult now," James sighed, "he will tell us when he's ready. The more we push this the more he's gonna fight back. He is just like you in that respect. When you were his age you were always finding ways to push Gustavo over the edge too. He got his stubbornness from you."
"I hate it when you use logic on me," Kendall muttered as he slouched in his seat, with his arms crossed over his chest. He glanced over at Jenny and declared, "I've made up my mind and Jenny isn't going to grow up."
"If only it worked that way," James laughed.
"He used to tell us everything," Kendall said.
"So did Jake and Adam, but they grew up and now it's Kyle and Leora's turn," James replied.
"Stop using logic on me," Kendall whined at his husband.
James laughed at his behavior. He walked over to the table where Kendall was sitting. He leaned over the blonde with a smile. He pecked him on the lips.
"I know it sucks that they are growing up, but the more we baby them the worse it will get. Kyle is an adult now. We have to let them make their own mistakes and learn from them," James said.
"I know, but it's hard to believe that they are all grown up. I just...I miss the days when they were little and we were their best friends," Kendall said.
"I know, me too, but we are parents not best friends, you knew this was coming," James said.
"No, I think I'm still in denial," Kendall said petulantly.
James chuckled again and shook his head. He returned to the stove. Kendall sat there brooding. He hated that his kids were growing up. This wasn't supposed to happen. Kyle and Leora were supposed to stay little, Jake and Adam too. This was all too fast for him. He didn't like it one bit.
"It's ok Kendall, we did the best we could," James said.
"Stop being so mature about this," Kendall said, "please come down to my level and wallow with me."
"Stop." James shook his head again.
"No, I don't want to, I am in denial," Kendall pouted.
"De-nie." Jenny agreed, pouting just like Kendall.
"Oh no, not another Kendall clone," James laughed. Kendall couldn't help but grin at that. Jenny smiled as Kendall smiled.
"You're toast now James," Kendall laughed.
"I don't think I can survive another Kendall," James agreed.
—Happy Mistakes—
Jake watched as Camille fussed over Damien. She was so happy he was awake. She had yet to tell him about what had happened. Damien was perfectly oblivious to her lie, but Jake wasn't and it was taking everything he had not to say anything. He had promised Logan he would not say anything.
Throughout the day Dr. Jacobi had been in as he was Damien's attending doctor. He had explained everything to Damien and what to expect going forward. Nurses had been in and out too asking about his pain and if he was comfortable. They were always checking his vitals too. One nurse noted it was a miracle that Damien was alive.
"Mom, I'm ok," Damien said, "mostly. Well I'm alive aren't I?" He added.
"I know sweetie, I was just so worried. You had us all so scared," Camille said a fresh set of tears welling in her eyes.
"Where's dad? How come he isn't here," Damien asked.
"He's still at work, he had a big case to prepare for. He was in a meeting when Jake called," Camille said looking to Jake.
"Yeah, I can message again," Jake offered, jumping up. He pulled his phone from his pocket.
"It's ok Jake, I will go give him a call," Camille said holding a hand up.
"Are you sure?" Jake asked.
"Yeah, I'll be right back," Camille said, giving Damien a smile before she left.
Jake glanced down at Eli, who was sleeping. He walked over to Damien's bed and took Camille's vacated seat. Damien reached out for his hand. Jake took it with a small smile.
"She's just worried," Jake said softly.
"I know," Damien gave a weak chuckle which turned into a grimace of pain.
"Careful," Jake said, glancing down towards where his stitches were.
"Sorry," Damien winced.
"Do you need me to get a nurse? Is your pain coming back?" Jake asked worriedly.
"No, no, it was my fault," Damien replied quickly. "I am gonna be in pain no matter what Jake. The meds just help make it manageable. That's what the doctor told me," he added. Jake nodded his head.
Eli chose that moment to wake up. Jake jumped up and picked him up. He started to gently rock
Him as he turned back to Damien.
"What wrong?" Damien asked.
"What do you mean?" Jake asked.
"You guys are acting very strange and dad isn't here yet. Case or not he would be here by now. Are they fighting?" Damien asked.
"Nothing gets past you."
The pair looked to the door where Steve stood. He didn't move from the door. He looked a little disheveled and like he hadn't slept in days. He had some beard growth which was unusual for him. One look told Jake that he was drunk. Jake glanced at Damien and could tell he saw it too.
"Dad," Damien said, shifting slightly. He winced in pain.
"Careful of your stitches," Jake said quickly.
"What is going on?" Damien asked, ignoring Jake for the moment.
Steve heaved a sigh shaking his head. Jake knew this wasn't going to be easy. He kind of wished Camille was here. She was the one who needed to come clean.
"Dad," Damien said.
"Steve, I got your message."
Logan joined Steve in the doorway with his phone in his hand. He took a step back from Steve, making a face.
"Are you drunk?" Logan asked.
"So, why do you care?" Steve asked, glaring at him.
"Come on, I think we need to talk," Logan said, gesturing away from the room.
"What's going on here?"
Camille returned to the room. She was looking between Steve and Logan. She took one look at Steve and her face fell.
"Where have you been," Camille asked Steve. She gave him a once over as well. Her eyes narrowed but she didn't say a word.
The room was silent aside from the machines that were attached to Damien.
Eli started fussing again. Everyone looked to Jake as he tried to soothe the infant.
"I think he needs to be changed," Jake said, avoiding Damien's gaze. He knew that he knew something was up.
Jake grabbed the diaper bag and ducked from the room. He hated leaving Damien like that, but those three needed to handle this. Hopefully they would.
-Happy Mistakes-
Miles stood up from his bed, tossing his controller aside. His stomach growled as he stretched. Logan and Carlos had offered to take him and Layal out for dinner, but Miles had passed. He was sure that Kyle would be over soon and they would go do something stupid together. As if on cue, his bedroom door banged open. Miles jumped as Kyle stormed in looking ready to murder.
"What now?" Miles asked.
"My dad is like on crack today or something. He keeps nagging me and I just...I can't take it," Kyle said as he fell down onto the bed.
"Tell me about it," Mile said sitting down next to the blonde. He pulled his head into his lap.
Kyle sighed as he looked up at him. He paused before he started in on his rant about Kendall. Apparently, the argument had started at Kyle's doctor appointment when Kyle wouldn't let Kendall back with him. Then things had cooled down once they got home, but at dinner, it seemed Kendall started in on him again when Leora asked to go to San Diego. They had been invited down by the guys and a friend of theirs. Kendall had pressed about Kyle's appointment and things blew up.
"Like shit hit the fan dude!" Kyle said as he sat up. "I can't stand him sometimes. He's always on my case. It was Leora who asked to go to San Diego, not me."
"You know he only does it because he cares," Miles replied thoughtfully.
"Don't start with that crap dude, he's treating me like I'm still just a kid. He doesn't want me to grow up," Kyle spat.
"Yeah, no parent wants that, I swear dad and papi are trying to make up for lost time. They treat me like a child too sometimes. They do it out of love," Miles said.
"Yeah, I need him to love just a little less," Kyle said.
"Ok and I want to hear more, but dude I need payment. I am starving. Feed me and I'll listen to all your problems," Miles said jumping up.
"Fine, I'm kinda hungry too, I skipped out on dinner," Kyle said standing up.
"Awesome let's go," Miles said, tugging the blonde along.
The two quickly exited the house and headed to Kyle's car. It wasn't long before they had an assortment of different foods. They drove out of town to a way side to eat and for Kyle to rant. They grabbed all their food and got out of the car. They sat on the hood and started eating. Soon they were laughing and having a mini food fight.
"Ok I give," Kyle said, putting his hands up in surrender.
"Feeling any better?" Miles asked.
"Much, thanks for letting me rant," Kyle said.
"You're welcome, what are friends for?" Miles said.
Kyle leaned over and pressed his lips to Miles in answer to his question. Miles was no longer surprised by this. He just rolled with it. He knew that Jared was out of town for the rest of the week, Kyle would probably take advantage of that.
The pair quickly relocated to the back seat. Miles climbed into the blonde's lap, their lips hardly leaving each other. He got lost so easily in the blonde's touch. Kyle's hands came down to his hips. He pulled Miles down to him. Miles gasped as he realized that Kyle was just as into this as much as he was. Kyle's hand snaked into his jeans and Miles lost it. All thought was gone, as he focused on the pleasure. Kyle expertly jerked him off. Miles' head fell down onto his shoulder panting as Kyle drove him closer and closer to the edge.
Suddenly Kyle stopped. He pushed Miles up, "Off." he commanded.
"What?" Miles asked, still in a daze.
Kyle pushed Miles off his lap. He situated them with Miles back awkwardly against the car door. He opened his jeans and pulled them down to expose him. He grabbed his cock and started to stroke, using spit as lube. MIles gasped and tensed.
"Want me to stop? Am I going too far?" Kyle asked worriedly.
Miles' mouth floundered for a moment, before he shook his head. Kyle stroked him a few more times before he leaned over and took his in his mouth. Miles gave a shout of surprise. He had not expected that. Kyle took him all in one swift motion. Miles choked on a gasp. That was better than anything he had ever experienced before.
"Have you never-?" Kyle asked looking up at Miles.
"Not like that," Miles said slowly, his brain still foggy. He wanted Kyle to continue what he had been doing.
"Yeah, I'm told I'm pretty good at it," Kyle said cockily.
"Watch it, your ego is showing," Miles said glaring at his best friend.
"I'll let my skills do the talking," Kyle replied. He quickly leaned forward and took him in his mouth again. Miles gasped shocked at the suddenness of it.
Miles' hand flew to his mouth. He bit his finger as he tried not to be too loud, before he realized that they were alone in a car. There was no one around to hear them. This was unusual for them.
Kyle bobbed his head faster, relaxing his throat taking more of MIles as he went. Miles fought the urge to thrust his hips up. It wasn't very long before Miles came. He barely got a warning out to the blonde. Kyle sat back wiping his mouth as he swallowed.
"Did you just-?" Miles asked shocked.
"Swallow? Yeah, it's a little easier to clean up," Kyle shrugged.
"Isn't it gross?" Miles asked.
"It's not that bad," Kyle shrugged as he sat back in the cramped space. "It's an acquired taste for sure."
"I don't think I could," Miles said, making a face.
"Not everyone does dude," Kyle laughed. He watched as Miles glanced down at his crotch, where he was still very obviously hard. "You don't have to," he said quickly.
"Yeah, but I feel like I should do something in return," Miles said.
"I'm not looking for anything in return, you should never do something because you feel like you have to. You should do it because you want to," Kyle said.
"I wouldn't be here if I didn't want to be," Miles said as he moved forward and opened Kyle's jeans. He wasn't as skilled as Kyle was, but he was going to do this.
Kyle sat back and watched him curiously. Miles reached over and opened Kyle's jeans. He paused for a moment. Kyle opened his mouth, but Miles stuck his hand in his underwear silencing anything he had planned to say. Instead he got a shocked gasp of surprise.
"Got your attention?" Miles asked. Kyle nodded his head. "I'm doing exactly what I want to do." Kyle shimmied his jeans down a little to give Miles better access. Miles continued to jerk him off. It wasn't the best hand job Kyle had ever received, but it was better than some.
"Any days now," Miles said as his hand slowed a little. His arm was starting to tire.
"Shut up," Kyle said, pulling Miles into a kiss. He felt his orgasm nearing. He parted with Miles giving him a warning.
Miles quickened his pace and watched Kyle's face as he came. Kyle jerked in his hand a few times before he shuddered. Miles withdrew his hand.
Kyle grabbed some napkins from the front seat and cleaned himself up. He handed one to Miles to wipe his hand as well. Kyle fixed his jeans.
"Sorry if I wasn't good," Miles said, losing his confidence.
"Not bad, for your first time," Kyle said as he finished zipping his fly. "besides practice makes perfect. You'll get better the more you do it. I was awful at it before too. Jared has taught me so much. You know except for the blow jobs, he says I was great from the start. I'm a natural." He fell back on the bed beside Miles.
"Your confidence in your ability is-" Miles started.
"Hey who made who come faster here," Kyle said, "I know what I'm good at."
"Ok, but like you're like a sex pro and I'm like a noob compared to you. I mean I've only really had sex like a couple times," Miles admitted.
"Which is why I'll take you under my wing young padawan and teach you the ways," Kyle said
"Why are you so weird?" Miles asked.
"I'm not the weird one here," Kyle retorted.
"So have you only ever done it with…" Kyle trailed off.
"Yeah, and one shitty blow job from Sara," Miles admitted.
"Sara? You two?" Kyle asked.
"Her reputation is all lies. She's not that good at it, now that I have that for comparison," Miles said his cheeks flushing red.
"I know, I'm amazing," Kyle laughed leaning in close to him. Miles laughed as well and shoved the blonde away.
Kyle's phone started ringing startling the pair. Kyle leaned forward and grabbed his phone from the front seat. Miles peeked and saw Jared's name on the screen. His heart sank for a second before Kyle sent the call to voicemail.
"I bet dad called him and he's trying to check in on me," Kyle said, tossing the phone back to the front.
"He's gonna keep calling," Miles replied.
"Let him," Kyle said as he leaned back in his seat, as much he could. He leaned over on Miles' shoulder. "Thanks again for letting me rant and the whole distraction."
"What are friends for," Miles asked with a smile.
—Happy Mistakes—
Leora bit her lip as she walked up to Miles locker. He was busy grabbing his books. He didn't notice her at all. She tapped his shoulder making him jump like a foot in the air. He turned and gave her a glare before he chuckled.
"You scared the ba-jeezus out of me," he said, "I thought you were Kyle and I was ready to beat the crap out of him."
"Sorry," Leora giggled.
"What's up?" Miles asked as he shut his locker.
"Walk me to class?" Leora asked, holding an arm out to him.
"Of course," Miles said, "are we trying to scare a creep off? I'll kick anyone's ass." He linked his arm with hers.
"No, nothing like that," Leora laughed.
The two started walking. Leora wasn't sure how to go about this. She knew that she had to make the first move. Miles was never gonna do it. She had scared him off with all that brotherly talk. It was now or never. She didn't want to wonder what could have been.
"So," Leora said slowly as they walked.
"Yes," Miles said.
"What are you doing this weekend?" Leora asked. She had to do this now, before she lost her nerve. Before Kyle showed up and interrupted them.
"Nothing yet, I like to live in the moment and play things by ear," Miles said.
"Kyle and I are going to San Diego to do a shoot with that YouTube baker Rose Mancino. Why don't you come with, I'm sure we could find something fun to do," Leora said.
"Yeah, I've been needing to find my next big adventure," Miles said.
"Cool, maybe we could ditch Kyle for once since you know he's gonna be busy with Jared," Leora said.
"Totally, teach him how it feels to be abandoned," Miles said.
"Well here's my stop," Leora said pointing to her class. "This weekend is gonna be fun."
"Great, I can't wait," Miles said.
"It's a date," Leora said before she took off into her class.
"Yeah-wait what?" Miles asked, but she was gone.
"Dude, there you are," Kyle said running up to him. He paused as he took in Miles' confused state. He arched a brow at him. "Something wrong?"
"I don't know, I think Leora just asked me out on a date," Miles said slowly as he stared at where Leora had been.
"What?"