Chapter 48: Over and Over Again
Kyle groaned as he woke up. He bolted up out of bed confused. He looked around the room before relaxing. He was in his bedroom. His bedroom.
Was that all just a dream?
He heard a groan from behind him. He looked back to see a tanned arm reach out for him. He smiled as he realized it was Miles. He laid back down.
"Sorry," he said.
"What's got you all worked up?"
Kyle froze as he realized that wasn't Miles. It was Lilly. He glanced over at her confused. Why was she in his bed? More importantly, why was she naked? He was naked.
"Kyle?"
Kyle jumped up out of bed. He quickly found a pair of underwear and slipped them on.
"Kyle what's going on, you're acting weird," Lilly said with a frown.
"Me? What are you doing here? Shouldn't you be at Berkeley?" Kyle asked.
"Uh no, I'm taking a semester off, remember," Lilly said slowly.
"What?" Kyle asked, confused. This didn't make any sense. He and Lilly had broken up ages ago and both moved on.
He racked his brain trying to remember what had happened last night. He fought with Leora at the condo.
The condo. He wasn't at the condo. He was home. I'm his childhood bedroom. He looked around for any close that would help him figure out how he got into this mess again.
"Kyle," Lilly said confused.
"What's going on?" Kyle asked.
"I know you hit your head pretty hard last night, but are you sure you're ok?" Lilly asked.
"Yeah, yeah," Kyle said slowly. This wasn't right. He needed to get out of here. He grabbed his clothes and quickly got dressed, telling her he needed to use the bathroom.
He bolted from the room. He made his way to the bathroom where Leora was already locked away doing her morning routine, shouting that she needed ten more minutes.
Kyle shook his head confused. He made his way to the downstairs bathroom. He paused as he didn't see any of the tarps or drywall knocked down. Something wasn't adding up here.
He heard movement in the kitchen. He entered and saw James busy making breakfast with Carlos sitting at the table. They were gossiping together as always.
"What are the odds he shows up with him?" James asked.
"He always does, they are attached at the hip now," Carlos commented.
"I can't stand him. Like he could at least have waited a little longer to start something," James spat.
"Hey pops, where's dad?" Kyle asked, confused. James looked up from the eggs he had been whisking.
"He's late, as always," James snapped.
"Oh will you relax," Kendall said as he entered the kitchen with Jenny in his arms. Jenny squirmed and he set her down. She ran to James happily.
"Pop-pop!"
James wiped his hands on a towel. He caught her in a hug, picking her up as he went.
"Oh Jenny-Bee I missed you so much," James said, giving her a kiss on the cheek. He sniffed and frowned. "Why do I smell his cologne?" He started.
"He's out in the car James, he helped me get her ready this morning," Kendall said, rolling his eyes at the brunette.
"Was he there all weekend," James asked.
"Yeah, that's what living together means. We live together," Kendall said, annoyed. "Look, you get no say in who I spend my time with anymore. You lost that right when you stepped out and ruined our marriage. We are divorced. I am in a happy relationship and Jenny adores him too, he's been nothing but great to her and the others too."
"That's because he's the same age as Jake!" James snapped.
Kyle looked between the two confused. Divorced? When did this happen? What happened? Who was Kendall even seeing? A younger man by the sounds of it? How long was he out. Something wasn't right.
"Not in front of the baby, please ," Leora said as she walked into the kitchen in a short skirt and tank top that was surly against the school dress code. Lilly followed behind her. She was wearing a pair of Kyle's pajama pants and a small tank top.
"There's my slacker," Carlos greeted Lilly.
"Papi, I didn't realize you were here," Lilly said.
"And miss all the fun that is drop off, no way," Carlos said, "besides I'd never miss a chance to see my college drop out."
"I didn't drop out, I am taking a semester off," Lilly said with a glare.
"It's a slippery slope Mija," Carlos said.
"And on that note, we need to get to school," Leora said, turning to Kyle.
"Not dressed like that," James said, shaking his head.
"Why not, I think it's cute," Kendall said.
"Ew," Leora said, looking at Kendall. "I'm gonna go change, five minutes and we have to get to school." She said turning to Kyle.
"Right," he said, nodding his head.
"Hey Kendall, is the studio hiring for like assistants? I'm good with computers and wrangling idiots," Lilly said.
"Actually, Penelope is about to go on Maternity leave, so I could use a temp assistant," Kendall said.
"Coffee runs, and filing stuff," Lilly asked.
"Basically and errands," Kendall said.
"I'll take it if you're offering," Lilly said.
"You're hired, this way I can tell them we don't need one of those awful temps," Kendall said. His phone started ringing. He looked down with a sigh. "I gotta get going," he said as he ignored the call. "If you're free this afternoon after 2, stop in and we can get the ball rolling on paperwork, and you can start by Monday. You could just text me a time that works for you." He said.
"This afternoon is fine," Lilly said with a smile.
With that said Kendall left. Kyle stood there confused. What the hell was going on? This wasn't making any sense.
Before he could even grasp what was going on Leora was dragging him out the door. The ride to school was quick and filled with chatter on Leora's end. Once she irked the car she turned to him confused.
"You're acting so strange today," she commented. "How hard did you hit your head?"
"Hit my head?" Kyle asked slowly.
"Yeah, you fell down the stairs, it was pretty gnarly," Leora said as she shut the car off.
"Oh, I don't remember," Kyle said.
"Well if you would just wake up," Leora said.
"What?" Kyle asked, confused. What did she mean by that?
"Anyways come on, let's get this day over with." Leora said changing tracks. She climbed out of the car and headed inside.
Kyle followed her more confused than ever. How hard did he hit his head. Was everything all just a dream. Dating Jared? Seeing Miles? What was even real? He wasn't sure.
They made their way to their lockers. Leora was babbling away again. She was so annoyed with something. Kyle wasn't really paying attention to her. He was busy trying to distinguish reality from fiction.
"There you are!"
Kyle looked up as Lucas and Miles ran up to them. Lucas ran right to Leora pulling her into a hug. Leora giggled as she pulled Lucas into a kiss. Kyle's jaw dropped as he watched the two. Wasn't Lucas dating Artie.
"Good morning to you too," Leora greeted him with a smile.
"Artie says good morning too, princess," Lucas laughed.
"Are we still on for tonight?" Leora asked.
"Of course, it's a date. Artie might be a little late since he's got an audition but he will be there," Lucas replied. He linked arms with her walking away.
"They are so sickeningly adorable," Miles said, shaking his head. "I never thought the three of them would work it out, but hey they are all happy and that's what matters."
"What? Who?" Kyle asked, confused.
"Lucas, Leora, and Artie. They are all happy now after that whole will they won't they thing they all had going on as Lucas jumped back and forth between Leora and Artie," Miles explained.
"Oh, yeah," Kyle said sheepishly.
"What's wrong with you?" Miles asked, looking him up and down. "Something seems different about you."
"Todays just been an off morning," Kyle sighed.
"Hit your head that hard?" Miles laughed as they started walking along.
"Apparently," Kyle said, "I don't even remember when dad and pops got divorced," he said.
"That was ages ago," Miles said shocked, "wow you really did hit your head hard. Maybe you need to wake up."
"What?" Kyle asked, confused.
"I said you really did hit your head hard," Miles said.
They entered their class together. The day sped by. Most classes were boring and Kyle could really pay attention. He was still trying to absorb everything that was going on.
At the end of the day Leora told Kyle to catch a ride with Miles and that she and Lucas were heading out together. That was still a shock. He couldn't believe that they were dating. What had happened that he wasn't remembering
"Dude focus," Miles said, punching his arm.
"Sorry what?" Kyle asked.
"Are you going to the studio today or are you gonna play hooky again," Miles asked, "as much fun as playing hooky is if we don't get in and record your music soon I don't think we will ever get your album out."
"What are you talking about? I released my album already," Kyle said confused.
"I'm your head maybe, we only have like four songs fully done, and like ten others half done," Miles said, "I swear ever since the divorce you've been avoiding the studio. Not that I blame you, your dad kind of went overboard after the divorce, but like when the guy you've been with for almost twenty years cheats on you it must cause some kind of mental break. But his new boyfriend is just…you know."
"What are you talking about?" Kyle asked.
"Are you sure that fall didn't cause some kind of amnesia?" Miles asked.
"I'm not sure, with how many times I've injured my head I don't doubt I've got some brain damage at this point," Kyle mumbled. His hand flew to his left wrist in search of the bracelet Jared had given him. It wasn't there. He looked down confused.
"What?" Miles asked.
"Nothing," Kyle said looking up, "let's go to the studio. Like you said I need to get my songs recorded if I wanna share them with the public."
"Yeah, let's just hope he's not there," Miles said.
"Who?" Kyle asked.
Miles just remained silent as they drove along. They arrived at the studio and quickly made their way up to Rocque Records. They ran into Penelope who was showing Lilly around.
"Hey guys, here to record?" Penelope asked, smiling at them.
"Yeah, have you seen the boss man?" Miles asked.
"Hey Kyle," Lilly greeted with a smile and a kiss to the cheek.
"What are you doing here by the way?" Miles asked his sister.
"Oh I got a job, I'm gonna be Penelope's replacement while she's on maternity leave," Lilly said quickly.
"Yep, just giving her a quick tour before she starts next week, and stalling for Kendall because he had a last minute meeting added," Penelope said.
"Cool, we will just head to the studio and start working. Tell him we're here," Kyle said dragging Miles away.
Kyle entered the studio and shut the door miles gave him a worried look.
"What's with you? You just blew off Lilly and now I'm gonna have to hear about it," Miles complained. "She's gonna come running home and invite Leora over and they are gonna have a sob fest together."
"Sorry, but I don't understand. Last thing I remember is she and I broke up and we're just friends. She was at Berkeley, trying to decide if she still wanted to be a doctor," Kyle said quickly.
"What? Did you guys break up when she left?" Miles asked.
"No, we broke up after junior prom after…" Kyle said slowly.
"After what?" Miles asked.
"Jared," Kyle said slowly.
"What about him? You mean that crush you used to have on him? I didn't know you guys broke up over that," Miles said.
"Something isn't right," Kyle said, shaking his head.
"Yeah you hit your head and now you've lost your mind," Miles said.
"Yeah, let's just get to work," Kyle said.
The two quickly set up their stuff in the studio. Miles helped Kyle get all his music cues up and ready to go. Eventually Kelly joined them.
"No Kendall?" Miles asked.
"He's busy," Kelly said.
"With his new boy toy," Miles asked, rolling his eyes.
"No, he's getting your sister hired so she can take over for Penelope in a few weeks when she has the baby," Kelly said.
"Oh, right," Miles said.
The three of them spent the next two hours recording. Miles was helping Kelly get everything just right. This album was his project too. He had a vision and knew what Kyle wanted.
Eventually they called it a night. Kyle and Miles bid Kelly goodbye as they left.
They rounded the corner and stopped when they saw Jared leaning back against the wall pulling Kendall close. Kendall had a hand on the wall beside Jared's head as he connected their lips in a playful kiss. They were laughing into the kiss as well.
Kyle felt his stomach drop. This wasn't real. Was it? Jared wasn't dating his dad. He was dating Jared. They had been together for almost two years now.
A hand flew to his mouth. Kyle turned and ran to the nearest bathroom. He threw himself into the closest stall and emptied his stomach.
A hand on his back made him jump. He looked up at Miles who was looking at him concerned.
"You ok?" Miles asked.
"Yeah, probably just something I ate," Kyle said slowly.
"On top of having to witness your dad maul his boy toy," Miles said dryly.
"Stop," Kyle groaned. He felt very sick all of a sudden. This wasn't right.
"Dude, are you sure you're ok?" Miles asked.
"No, this isn't right!" Kyle said shaking his head.
"I know, he's like younger than Jake, but they are both adults and like Jared's clawing his way to the top while your dad is getting his revenge at your pa," Miles said.
"No they aren't divorced," Kyle shook his head. "I'm not dating Lilly. I was dating Jared and…and you…we…" he trailed off as the pain in his head intensified.
"We what?" Miles asked.
His head hurt. It hurt so bad. He brought his hands up to his face. He pressed his palms into his eyes. It only seemed to worsen his pain. His chest felt heavy too. Breathing was difficult.
"We were…I don't know, but this isn't it," Kyle grit.
"Dude how hard did you hit your head?" Miles asked.
"Stop, I'm serious. I'm dating Jared and you and I started…I love you," Kyle said as the pain became too much.
Things started fading. More pain crept in. His body ached and the world was spinning. Where was he? What was going on? He had no idea what was right or wrong anymore.
"Kyle?" Miles grabbed his hand. "Kyle, can you hear me?"
—Happy Mistakes—
Kyle clenched his jaw and counted to ten. The pain faded away. He felt at ease again. The pain ebbed away, he couldn't hear Miles anymore. Where did he run off to?
Kyle opened his eyes. He blinked a few times as his eyes adjusted to the darkness. He reached around until he found his phone. He used that light to turn his lamp on.
He was in his bed alone, warm and cozy. He relaxed as he laid back with a smile. It had all just been a dream. He pulled his blanket back up around him. It had all just been a dream.
He started to drift to sleep when he heard the bedroom door open. He felt someone climb into bed with him. He tensed as an arm wrapped around him, but relaxed as he realized it was just Miles.
"Did I wake you?" Miles asked softly.
"Yeah, just wondering where you were," Kyle mumbled sleepily.
"Sorry, I had to use the bathroom," Miles chuckled.
"S'okay, just don't leave me," Kyle said, holding him closer.
"Never," Miles said, pressing a kiss to the side of his head.
"Had the craziest dream," Kyle mumbled sleepily.
"Tell me in the morning," Miles chuckled. He kissed the blonde's cheek this time. "Sleep dude."
Kyle pulled Miles closer. He snuggled into the other boy. This was right. This was where he belonged. He still felt an emptiness that could only be filled by Jared. That was a problem for the morning though.
Kyle closed his eyes again, content to stay like this forever. He knew it would last. They would have to wake up and face the world again soon, but with Miles by his side, he could do anything.
Kyle woke again to Miles' hand moving up and down his side. He reached for the offending hand as he squirmed away. He felt a kiss placed on his cheek. Kyle pressed his face further into his pillow.
"Noo, sleep," Kyle groaned. He moved away.
Miles giggled softly beside him. Miles' other hand moved to his side again. Kyle squirmed as he laughed. He scooted away from the brunette.
"Oh no you don't," Miles said. He quickly climbed on top of the blonde.
"Nooo, I wanna sleep," Kyle whined.
"Too bad, time to get up, we have school unfortunately," Miles said.
"Noo, no school," Kyle shook his head. He tried to get free from Miles. The two rolled around a few times, laughing and giggling, until they rolled off the bed. Kyle hit the floor with a thud hitting his head in the process.
Kyle looked up at Miles who was on top of him. Once they caught their breath they fell into a fit of laughter. The door opened and Kendall entered the room.
"What's going on here?" He asked.
"Sorry, we were goofing around," Miles said as Kyle scrambled to his feet, pulling him with.
"Sorry," Kyle said.
"Miles, does your mom know you're here?" Kendall sighed.
"Maybe, she was too high to even notice I left though," Miles shrugged.
"I don't mind that you stay over, but if the police show up at my door again," Kendall sighed.
"I'm eighteen now, and I practically live here anyways," Miles said.
"Yes, but if she's tripping and calls you in missing again, I don't want to be harboring a missing child," Kendall teased.
"Nah, she's cried wolf too many times," Miles said, waving a hand.
"Well time to get ready for school, breakfast should be ready soon," Kendall said, as he left the room.
Miles nudged Kyle playfully as he moved to his dresser and opened the drawers. He started looking for clothes.
"You mom? I thought she was in jail?" Kyle said slowly.
"Which time? She posted bail again, remember," Miles said, rolling his eyes. "I can't wait to move out this summer. Once we graduate you and I are gonna find a place of our own. No one will interrupt us and we won't have to listen to your dad and his…whatever he is-his revenge boyfriend or mid-life crisis, take your pick."
He finished getting dressed. He started tossing Kyle some clothes. Kyle quickly got dressed confused.
"Revenge boyfriend?" Kyle asked.
"Your words not mine dude," Miles laughed.
"What?" Kyle asked.
"How hard did you hit your head?" Miles asked, walking up to the blonde and touching his head.
"Not that hard, I think," Kyle said slowly. Had he even hit his head. It didn't hurt.
"Come on, let's get breakfast, I'm starving," Miles said. He took off out of the room.
Kyle followed him confused. Something wasn't right again. Miles didn't live with his mom. He lived with his real dads Carlos and Logan. He had for years now. Why was he talking about her like she was still his mother?
Kyle was brought from his thoughts when he entered the kitchen to see Kendall and Leora making breakfast together. Logan was sitting at the counter talking with Kendall. They were talking and laughing together. Miles greeted them with a smile as he took a seat at the counter and grabbed the orange juice.
"Miles, don't you ever go home?" Leora asked.
"This basically is my home. Would you wanna live with my mother?" Miles asked.
"Pass, but don't you gotta let her know you're alive at least," Leora asked.
"Nah, she doesn't even notice me when I'm there, and she doesn't even give me that courtesy when she's gone for weeks on end," Miles said, waving a hand.
"Hey kid, how are things?" Logan asked.
"I'm fine, she hardly notices I'm even gone. Like I was telling Kendall before she's cried wolf too many times they won't even bother anymore," Miles shrugged.
"Where's pops?" Kyle asked, looking around.
"He's late for drop off," Kendall said.
"As always," Logan said.
"He gets so mad when I'm late but then he waltzes in whenever he pleases and then gets mad at me for getting mad," Kendall said.
"He's James, have you met him? He's a narcissist through and through," Logan said, waving a hand. "He's always right and everyone else is always wrong."
"Yeah, he wasn't always like that," Kendall said.
"Yes he was, you were just too blinded by love to see it," Logan said.
"Harsh," Kendall said.
"But true," Logan replied.
"Doc, your bedside manner is atrocious," Kendall said, shaking his head.
"Sorry, but someone had to break the news to you," Logan said.
"Ok enough of that please," Leora cut them off.
Kyle looked confused. This wasn't making sense. Kendall and Hames weren't divorced. He felt like that's something he would know. Wasn't it? What happened to drive them apart? Who was Kendall seeing? Something wasn't right. He felt a headache forming.
"Dude you ok?" Miles asked, turning to face him.
"Yeah, just a headache," Kyle replied.
"You just need to wake up dude," Miles said, placing a hand on his shoulder.
"What?" Kyle asked, confused.
"Come on, we should get going, we don't wanna be late for school," Leora said, getting his attention. She didn't seemed to have heard Miles. Then again Kyle wasn't sure he heard him correctly. "School." She said again.
"Right school," Kyle said, nodding his head.
"Ew, do we have to?" Miles asked.
"I can't speak for you Miles, but Kyle and Leora do," Kendall said.
"Trust me you don't wanna drop out. Jackie said the GED test is annoying."
Everyone looked up as Jared walked into the room with a coffee cup in hand. He was fully dressed and looked like he had been up for hours. He walked up to Kendall pecking him on the cheek with a greeting.
"Good morning, where have you been?" Kendall asked.
"Noah had an emergency," Jared said.
"Oh, is he ok?" Kendall asked.
"Yeah he's fine, but uh…he's gonna be gone for a week or two, I'll let him tell you the details if he wants," Jared said slowly. Kendall nodded his head.
"Is Roldy gonna be gone too?" Kendall asked.
"Probably, at first anyways," Jared nodded his head as he took a seat next to Logan. "So Doc, what are you doing here?" he asked.
"I wouldn't miss morning drop off for the world," Logan replied.
"Drop off? Is Jenny not here yet?" Jared asked.
"No, and thanks for reminding me," Kendall said, turning to Logan. He pulled his phone out and called James.
"How come he can be late and it's not a big deal, but if you're two seconds late he freaks out, not to mention if I drop off he blows his lid," Jared said.
"That's what I said," Logan said.
Kendall shushed them, waving a hand at them. He gave a frustrated sigh before he started speaking. "James, this isn't funny. You were supposed to be here almost an hour ago. I'm gonna be late for work. You better have a good excuse for being late."
He set his phone down on the counter with a sigh. He glanced over at the twins and then to Logan and Jared.
"I think we should leave now," Leora said, grabbing Kyle's arm. She tugged him away.
Kyle allowed her to drag him away with Miles following them laughing. They reached the car outside and Leora stopped.
"Sorry, I just…they always trash talk him, but he's still our pa and I don't like it. Sure he's a bit narcissistic but they make him out to be this super villain because he made one mistake," Leora said, shaking her head as they climbed into the car.
"Well he fucked up, he's stepped out of his marriage instead of talking to his husband. I wouldn't forgive him either, cheating is cheating. I would never date a cheater, muschless marry one," Miles said.
"Didn't Kyle cheat on Lilly to be with you?" Leora asked.
"No, we did not do anything until they broke up, I mean we realized our attraction to one another, but I told him he had to break up with Lilly if he wanted to kiss me," Miles said.
"So I did," Kyle said.
"Yep, and now here we are two years later," Miles said.
"Two years?" Kyle asked.
"I know it doesn't feel like it," Miles replied, turning to Kyle with a smile.
"No it doesn't," Kyle said slowly.
They made their way to school with light conversation. Once they arrived Leora took off quickly shouting a fast good bye. Kyle gave Miles a look and he shrugged.
"Ok, let's get to class," Miles said, grabbing Kyle's hand. He led him through the hallways.
The rest of the day was rather uneventful. Kyle could barely focus. Having Miles so close was amazing. He didn't know why they had even hidden this. Being with Miles just felt right.
By the end of the day Kyle was tired and ready to just crash into bed and sleep for a week. Lucas and Leora had taken off once school ended to go hang out with Artie. They were alone in the car when Miles piped up.
"So," Miles said, glancing over at the blonde.
"Hm?" Kyle asked, reaching over and grabbing his hand.
"Studio today or do you trust me?" Miles asked.
"Unfortunately against my better judgement I always trust you," Kyle replied.
"Have I ever steered you wrong?" Miles asked.
"Yes, plenty of times," Kyle laughed.
"But have you ever not had fun?" Miles asked.
"Everyday with you is fun," Kyle said, bringing his hand up to kiss it.
"Hey don't go getting all sappy on me," Miles said tugging his hand down.
"I can't help it, you make me feel all the sappy things," Kyle said leaning over. He pecked Miles on the cheek.
"Ok back on track," Miles said, "you gotta trust me. We are playing hooky today. Besides you heard Jared. Noah and Roldy were going to be gone today so that meant they were most likely alone at the studio and I am not walking in on that again." He said with a shudder.
"Ew not the mental image I wanted," Kyle said, shaking his head.
"Me either, but I am scared for life," Miles said, "Man this whole rebound/revenge thing is lasting a lot longer than I thought it would though. It's been just over two years."
"Can we talk about something else?" Kyle asked.
He didn't want to talk about Kendall and Jared. That was still weird. It didn't make sense really. He had a vivid memory of his dream where he and Jared had been dating for over two years. They had gone through so much shit together, or so it had felt like that.
"Sorry, back to me and you," Miles said, "I've got something amazing planned for tonight. You're gonna love it."
"Planned? I thought the great Miles Mitchell didn't do plans, he just wings it and hopes for the best," Kyle said.
"Mitchell?" Miles asked, "dude I would have loved to have become Mitchell when Carlos and Logan tried to adopt me but then mom came home and fought tooth and nail to neglect me," He sighed.
"Right," Kyle said slowly. He didn't remember any of that. It sounded so strange to him for some reason.
"And yes I do wing it, and I don't have a full plan. I've got an outline, but if all goes well then tonight's gonna be awesome," Miles said.
"I'm sure it will," Kyle said, smiling at Miles.
"Stop being so mushy. We are not gonna be that couple," Miles said, making a face as he stopped at a traffic light.
"Yes we are, and you know you love it," Kyle said leaning over again.
"Maybe just a little, but I love you lots," Miles laughed.
Kyle pulled him in for a kiss. They only parted when the car behind them honked. Kyle fell back into his seat laughing. Miles quickly started driving again.
The rest of their drive was filled with laughter and mindless chatter. Kyle felt so comfortable with Miles. Eventually miles parked at the beach. He quickly scrambled out of the car and to Kyle's side. He helped the blonde out of the car with the biggest smile.
Kyle got a feeling of deja vu. He had a flash of a memory of them being here before. Of an awkward date and an even more awkward first kiss followed by laughter and an amazing make out session.
"Ok I know you said you didn't want anything big, but dude it's been two years," Miles said quickly as he grabbed his hand and pulled Kyle along to the boardwalk. "I just wanted to make this special and it doesn't get any specialer than this."
"Oh yeah and why's that?" Kyle asked. Miles stopped and turned to face him with a frown.
"Don't tell me you forgot," Miles said.
"Maybe, why don't you remind me," Kyle said, taking a step closer to the brunette. He grabbed him by the sides pulling him close. "It couldn't be that this is the exact spot where I kissed you for the first time after our first very awkward date."
"You jerk," Miles said, letting out a breath of relief.
"I could never forget you," Kyle said softly. He grinned at him. "You won't leave no matter how hard I try."
"You ain't getting rid of me," Miles said.
"Oh I sure hope not," Kyle said, kissing him.
"I mean it," Miles said, turning his head to the side. "Never."
"Never," Kyle agreed. This just felt right. Everything in this moment felt right, yet something felt like it was missing.
"So," Miles said, taking a step back. He suddenly looked nervous. Kyle arched a brow at him confused. "I was gonna wait, but like why wait. I know how I feel and I know you won't leave me right?"
"Yeah, I've grown rather fond of your company," Kyle teased.
Miles smiled at that. His shoulders squared up and he looked a little more at ease. He grabbed the blonde's hands.
"Two years ago I would have laughed at the idea of this," Miles said, shaking his head.
"What?" Kyle asked, confused.
"Marry me," Miles said simply.
"Come again," Kyle said. Had he heard him correctly.
"Marry me," Miles said confidently. "Not right this second but promise me we will get married. I know you think it's a scam and all that and so did I, but with you…things are just right."
"Miles I-" Kyle started.
"I'm not saying now, maybe after we graduate in a few years. I know you're my endgame. You are it for me," Miles said.
Kyle slapped a hand over his mouth. "Can I talk?" He asked. Miles nodded his head. "Yes, of course I'll marry you. You are endgame, too."
Miles threw his arms around the blonde in a tight hug. Kyle stumbled as he caught him. Miles laughed as he looked up at the blonde with a grin. Kyle smiled back as he leaned in and kissed him again.
They spent the next few hours just goofing off and having fun. Eventually they decided to head home, getting distracted on the way home with ice cream.
By the time they reached the Knight household, it was after curfew. They had to be quiet. Kyle slowly made his way into the house with Miles giggling behind him. He shushed him as he swatted his arm. They were gonna get caught if he wasn't careful.
They quickly started tip-toeing down the hallway. Miles was trying to suppress his laughing which only made Kyle want to laugh. He elbowed the other boy trying to keep him quiet.
"Your dad is passed out, you know."
Kyle paused, causing Miles to run into him. He stumbled forward but caught his balance.
"Oh hey Jared," Kyle said standing up straight as Miles stepped up behind him.
"He's sleeping on the couch, fell asleep halfway through the movie," Jared chuckled.
"That's cause he's an old man," Kyle replied.
"I didn't see anything," Jared said as he walked past them to the kitchen.
"Cool, cause we've been here for over an hour and have been doing our homework up stairs," Kyle said.
"Homework, yeah," Jared laughed as he entered the kitchen.
"Let's go," Miles said. He hurried Kyle along.
They ran up to his bedroom. They both collapsed on the bed in a fit of laughter. This felt perfect. Nothing could ruin this moment.
"Hey, what ever happened in that crazy dream of yours from last night," Miles asked.
"What?" Kyle asked. He paused and shrugged. "I can't remember."
"Oh, must not have been important," Miles laughed. He leaned in and kissed Kyle. Kyle grinned as he climbed into Miles lap.
"You should probably head home soon," Kyle said as he started trailing kisses down Miles' neck.
"Yeah, don't want mother dear thinking I'm dead in a ditch somewhere," Miles chuckled.
"Right, we can't have her worrying," Kyle said sarcastically as he started to open the buttons of his flannel.
"Totally," Miles agreed as he helped the blonde strip.
The two started laughing again as they wrestled Kyle's shirt off. The laughter was short lived as Kyle connected their lips. Miles quickly turned them around and laid Kyle on the bed.
Their movements were in sync with one another. They could anticipate the other. This felt perfect. Nothing could ruin this moment.
—Happy Mistakes—
Kyle made his way down to the kitchen with Miles following behind him talking loudly about some new movie he wanted to see this weekend. Kyle was barely listening. He knew Miles was talking just to talk. It was nothing new.
They entered the kitchen and paused when they saw Kendall pacing and complaining to Carlos, Logan, and Jared. It seemed James had not shown up yesterday with Jenny. He had called yesterday morning apologizing and telling Kendall he had stuck on a job upstate and had car troubles on top of that.
"I've got half a mind to call in," Kendall said.
"Kendall calm down, I'm sure he's got a reason," Carlos said.
"Or he's gone off the deep end," Logan muttered, earning an elbow from the Latino beside him. "What? I know he's your best friend Los, but he's gone off the deep end. Ever since the divorce."
Jared nudged Kendall and he looked up and followed his gaze.
"That's enough," Kendall said. Logan looked up at him and followed his gaze to Kyle and Miles.
"We were just leaving," Miles said, grabbing Kyle's arm.
"What's going on?" Kyle asked pulling his arm back.
"Nothing," Kendall said.
"Liar," Kyle said, looking between the four before him. "Where's Jenny? Where's Pops?"
"We don't know, I am trying to get a hold of him," Kendall said.
"Come on, we don't wanna be late for school," Miles said tugging on Kyle's hand again.
"Don't worry about it," Kendall said.
Kyle finally allowed Miles to lead him from the house. Once they were in his car did they speak.
"Somethings not right," Miles said with a frown.
"It's not like pops to just disappear," Kyle said, "I don't like this."
"Me either," Miles said, "come on let's get to school though. We can pry more later."
"What about Leora?" Kyle asked.
"Oh yeah," Miles said, pulling his phone out. He texted her quickly. "She's on her way down. She overslept."
—Happy Mistakes—
Kyle was sitting alone in his room. Miles had gone home once his mother called yelling at him. He said he'd be over once she passed out. Kyle had waved him off with a kiss and promised to be waiting for him. He didn't have much else to do.
He was messing around on his guitar with a new song he had been toying with. He would have to get to the studio to record soon.
A knock at the door caught his attention. He looked up as Jared wandered into his room.
"No Miles?" He asked.
"Nah, his mom called and threatened him," Kyle shrugged. "Where's dad?" He asked, arching a brow at the bleached blonde man.
"Out looking for your father. We still don't know where he is, or your sister," Jared said with a frown. He hopped up on Kyle's desk next to the blonde.
"Don't you have friends of your own to be with," Kyle asked, setting his guitar aside.
"Yeah, but Noah had a family emergency and took Ro with him and Matt and Pen are busy getting ready for the baby," Jared shrugged.
"I see," Kyle said, nodding his head. He stood so he was hovering over the other man. Jared smirked up at him. "So the next best thing was coming to see your boyfriend's son, who's still in high school, might I add."
"Pretty much. You complaining?" Jared asked, reaching a hand up to his neck. "I know where the fun is."
He pulled the blonde into a brushing kiss. Kyle's eyes went wide in shock before slipping shut at the familiarity. There was a nagging feeling at the back of his mind. This wasn't right. He turned his head, breaking the kiss.
"We can't," Kyle said, leaning back. As much fun as this was, he couldn't do this to Miles.
"When did you grow a conscious?" Jared asked, arching a brow at the blonde.
"I'm with Miles," Kyle said.
"Yeah and I'm with your dad, that never stopped us before," Jared said pulling the blonde closer.
"Yeah but-" Kyle started.
Jared cut him off with a kiss. This one more hungry than the last. Kyle melted into the touch. This was so familiar. He grabbed the older man's face pulling him close as he thrust his tongue out. Jared met him halfway in a battle for dominance.
Jared's hands started to roam over his body tugging at his clothes. He forgot what he had been trying to say. Jared was very distracting.
Before he knew what was even happening they were in his bed sans clothes. Jared was touching him in all the right places. It wasn't long before he had Jared moaning underneath him.
Everything all fell into place. Kyle knew exactly where to touch and when. Jared was putty in husbands and begging for more. Kyle quickly prepared him before entering him with a moan of his own. He knew he wouldn't last long. He set a brutal pace much to the older man's delight.
It was over all too soon. Kyle fell beside the older man with a huff. Jared gave a delighted mewl as he stretched out.
"That was fun," Jared said, turning on his side to face the blonde. He brought a hand up to his chest. "Why couldn't you have made a move before your dad?"
Kyle simply shrugged. He turned to not his side too. He picked eye with Jared.
"Miles asked me to marry him," Kyle said, slowly.
Jared laughed before looking at the blonde. He stopped when he saw the serious look on his face.
"You're kidding right?" Jared asked, his smile falling. "Shit you're serious?"
"Yeah he did," Kyle said.
"I don't suppose you told him about our little arrangement," Jared replied.
"Not exactly," Kyle said slowly.
"Well what did you say, Mr. I'm never gonna get married cause it's a scam," Jared laughed again. He paused when Kyle didn't speak. "You said no right?"
"No, I said yes," Kyle replied. "I can't imagine my life without him. I don't want to lose what we have?"
"Oh, and when he finds out about your little arrangement with me?" Jared asked.
"He won't," Kyle said.
"Cause this ends now right?" Jared asked, sitting up. He stretched once more. "I've heard this before. You'll be back, when he pisses you off again or when you're bored."
"I mean it this time," Kyle said, frowning.
"Heard that one too," Jared laughed. He quickly dressed as he made his way to the door. "If you want kid, we're done. I've got your dad to take care of me, but you know where to find me."
"Stop it," Kyle said.
"No, you need to wake up," Jared snapped. Kyle jumped back.
"What?" Kyle asked, confused. That didn't make sense. Wake up?
"I said you know where to find me," Jared shrugged. He left the room.
He left the room. Kyle kid there a moment longer. He quickly got dressed. He grabbed his phone and quickly texted Miles. He waited a moment before tossing his phone down on his bed.
He couldn't sit still. He started pacing. His mind was racing. He needed to end this with Jared. He didn't want to loose Miles. What they had was awesome. He could tell Miles anything. He could be himself with no fear of judgement. Miles was his person. The longer he kept whatever this was with Jared up the more he risked losing Miles. He didn't want that to happen. Miles was too important to him. Then again, things with Jared were good too, aside from the whole he was dating his dad part. They had fun together aside from the sex. They had similar interests and Lyle was friends with his friends too. On paper they would make a great couple. The only thing preventing them from dating was that Jared was very publicly dating his dad after the divorce.
Kyle gave a frustrated sigh as he fell onto his bed again. His legs dangling off the side. He started bouncing his foot, unable to sit still completely. He was torn.
He pressed his hands to his eyes as he let out a frustrated growl.
He heard his door open. He let his hands fall to his side. He didn't open his eyes as he felt the bed dip beside him. He didn't need to, he already knew it was Miles.
"Slipped her watch already?" Kyle asked.
"She's beyond gone already," Miles sighed. He snuggled into Kyle's side.
"I'm sorry," Kyle said, turning onto his side. He finally looked at Miles. He saw the bruise under his eye. "What happened?" He asked softly. His hand came up to cradle his cheek.
"Promise me once we graduate, we will run away together," Miles replied.
"Oh course," Kyle said, "you and me against the world. Like it's always been."
Miles leaned into his touch, his eyes slipping shut. Kyle gently ran his thumb over the red bruise.
"Miles," Kyle said.
"I'm fine," Miles said quickly. His eyes snapped open. "You need to wake up though, please," he pleaded.
"What?" Kyle asked, confused.
"I need you to promise me for real, once we graduate you and me are gone. I can't stay here in this god forsaken town one more minute than I have to," Miles said.
"Yeah," Kyle said, nodding his head. He shook his head. "You and me, we will go wherever you want, as far away from her as we can."
"Good," Miles said. He leaned in and kissed the blonde.
Kyle sighed happily into the kiss. Miles was the right choice. He was his better half. He understood him in a way no one else could. They were perfect for each other. This was where he needed to be. Miles needed him. Jared would find someone else to play with. He was a famous pop star after all. He had options. Miles didn't, this was his only chance.
Miles rested his forehead against Kyle's. "I can't wait for graduation. I can't wait to get away from this place."
"Me too," Kyle said. He wanted to get as far away from here as he could. Things would be so much simpler when it was just the two of them.
They laid there together. No words were needed, just one another's company that was all.
A knock at the door came. Kyle groaned as he snuggled closer into Miles. Miles chuckled as the knock came again.
"Kyle," Leora called out.
"Better get that, she probably won't go away any time soon," Miles whispered.
"Nah, I'm sleeping," Kyle whispered.
Leora started knocking again. Kyle sighed as he got out of bed. He opened the door and saw her frantic look as she was about to knock again. He caught her wrist so she didn't hit him.
"Whoa Le, where's the fire," Kyle asked.
"Yeah, who died," Miles asked, stepping up beside Kyle with a grin. It fell as Leora struggled to find her words.
"Leora what's wrong," Kyle asked, taking in his distress.
"Leora!"
Kendall ran down the hallway to her. He stopped short as they locked eyes. He pulled her into a hug.
"What's going on?" Kyle asked, confused.
"Your pa and Jenny were in an accident last night," Kendall said slowly. "That's why we haven't been able to get a hold of him."
"Oh," Kyle said.
The room felt like it was spinning. He stumbled backwards. Miles caught him, steadying him. Kendall was talking, but Kyle couldn't really hear him. His heart was racing again. It felt like it was going to pound out of his chest.
Kendall then pulled him into a hug. He squeezed him tight. Suddenly his words came clear.
"Wake up, please," Kendall pleaded softly. "I'm sorry, just please…wake up."
"What?" Kyle asked, confused. Things faded to black again.
—Happy Mistakes—
Kyle was at his locker when Lucas approached him. Lucas nudged him causing him to jump.
"What up?" Kyle asked, turning to him.
"Sorry, didn't mean to startle you," Lucas laughed.
"Sorry I was just…thinking," Kyle said slowly.
"Leora told me about your pa being in the hospital, I'm sorry," Lucas said.
"It's…it's whatever," Kyle said, waving a hand. He didn't want to talk about it.
"So…what happened to Miles?" Lucas asked, taking a hint.
"He won't tell me, but his mom is back in town," Kyle said.
"Shit," Lucas said.
"Yeah, I can't wait for graduation," Kyle said. He started walking away.
"You two are still planning on running away," Lucas asked. He fell into step with Kyle.
"As far as we can," Kyle said.
"Well with your music money that should get you pretty far," Lucas chuckled.
"Yeah, I just…she's so awful to him I don't know why he even goes back. He's eighteen already. Dad said he's more than welcome to live with us basically," Kyle sighed.
"She's his mom," Lucas shrugged, "part of him still hopes that a part of her cares for him in some capacity."
"Yeah, but like the drugs make her crazy and she brings home strange men all the time," Kyle sighed, "I just wish he would stop going there. He needs to see that she's never gonna change."
"Would you ever abandon your dads?" Lucas asked.
"My dads aren't on drugs," Kyle said, making a face. "That's completely different."
"Yeah, but like if you dad started dating a younger man and making wild and crazy decisions would you turn against him? Or if your pa cheated and had a mental break because your dad left him and started to do erratic things would you turn against him?" Lucas asked.
"Ok I get your point," Kyle said, shoving the other teen.
"Hey, cripple, remember," Lucas joked.
"I thought you were handicapable and all that jazz," Kyle teased.
"Anyways, we gotta look out for Miles," Lucas said, "he is not gonna realize it on his own."
"I know," Kyle said. The two fell silent for a moment. Kyle stopped outside his classroom. "He asked me to marry him."
"What?" Lucas asked.
"Yeah, after graduation and all that, he wants to get married and run away," Kyle said slowly.
"Oh," Lucas said, "tell me you let him down gently."
"Why would I let him down?" Kyle asked, confused.
"You said yes? I thought you were never gonna get married. Isn't marriage a scam?" Lucas asked.
"I can't imagine my life without him in it. Marriage might be a scam, but he's worth it," Kyle said.
"Good, don't hurt him," Lucas said.
"I don't plan on it," Kyle said.
The two parted ways. Kyle took his seat as the bell rang. He could hardly focus on the lecture today. It was boring. All he wanted to do was see Miles again. He was thinking about last night. He just needed to make it to graduation. Then they could run away and start over together.
The bell rang startling him. He jumped and gathered his things. He raced from the room to Miles' locker. He didn't see the other boy there which was odd. Normally he was the first one there.
Kyle checked his phone to see if Miles had texted him and saw no messages. He frowned as he waited a moment before heading to lunch.
He was met half by Miles. Miles was grinning as he grabbed his arm and led him away from the cafeteria. He led him outside to the quad away from everyone.
"Where have you been?" Kyle asked.
"I cut class," Miles replied.
"Oh, without me? I could have helped you," Kyle teased.
"Not for that, we can do that later," Miles said grinning. He dropped his bag onto a table and dug something out. "I got you something."
"Oh yeah," Kyle said as he watched him dig around in his bag.
"Ok I know it's a bit backwards and it's not traditional but I think you'll love it," Miles said.
"You didn't have-" Kyle paused, as Miles shoved a small black box into his hands.
It was definitely bigger than a ring box. He gave Miles a confused look.
"Open it," Miles said.
"What is it," Kyle asked as he opened the box. It was an ID bracelet. He picked it up confused. He looked at it and saw his name and date of birth on the bracelet.
"I hope you like it," Miles said smiling.
"This-this isn't right," Kyle said slowly. His head hurt, the headache returning. "Miles you didn't get this for me." He said.
"What are you talking about?" Miles asked, taking notice of his confusion.
"This is…this is wrong," Kyle said, shaking his head.
"It's so you don't forget who you are anymore."
That wasn't Miles' voice. That was Jared. He had given him the bracelet after his car accident. It was of both their names and date of birth. It was a joke between them. Not him and Miles. Kyle looked up and Miles was gone. Instead Jared stood there grinning at him.
"Flip it over, it's got my information on the other side in case you forget again," Jared teased.
"It's perfect Jer," Kyle whispered, running a finger over the engraving. He felt a tear sliding down his cheek.
The headache came back, worse than before. He gasped as he fell to his knees. This was off. He wasn't dating Miles. He was dating Jared and sleeping around with Miles. He had broken both their hearts.
"Kyle!"
"Kyle!"
Those voices sounded familiar. Everything was fading away. He could feel his heart racing. It felt like it was trying to thump right out of his chest.
"Kyle please, wake up," Miles begged.