Chapter 53: Change of Plans
Kendall tapped his foot as he looked over some contract Kelly had dropped off for him. Things had been piling up since Penelope was put on bed rest. He and Kelly had taken on Penelope's responsibilities. It was an adjustment that he didn't mind. Penelope needed to take it easy for the baby. He managed before she came into the picture and would after her. It was just going to take some time. Kyle not being around was throwing him for a loop too. He had gotten so used to having the younger blonde around helping him as well. This was unexpected and not what he had been planning for. At least with Penelope, he had been preparing for her departure for a little while.
He tossed the paperwork down, unable to focus. Kyle being gone only reminded him of why he was gone. He couldn't help but worry about him either. He knew the prognosis was looking good. He knew Kyle was in the best hands possible. Kyle finally let him and James into one of his visits with Dr. Kozubovsky. They were able to get the whole story finally. Kyle had then been set up to get weekly chemo and therapy for his speech and tremors that had come from his suicide attempt. All of this was handled by Dr. Kozubovsky, and she made tweaks and changes as time went on.
After the initial appointment, Kendall and James decided to have a family meeting. Kyle had been annoyed but accepted. They had discussed everything as a family. Tears were shed, and some arguments as well. It had been a long night, but in the end, Kendall felt that they were all a little closer now. Everyone rallied behind Kyle, helping him through this. Leora and Kyle had apologized to one another and put this argument aside for now. Things were a little tense still, but they were mostly getting along again.
Kendall leaned back in his chair, yawning as he covered his face with his arm. He hadn't been sleeping well lately. He was up most nights worried about Kyle. He knew the odds, and how well Kyle responded to treatment was a plus. His parent brain just couldn't help but go through the worst-case scenario. He worried no matter how hard he tried not to think like that. What if Kyle's body started to reject the treatment? What if cancer came back eventually? What if, what if, what if?
He closed his eyes and took a few deep calming breaths. He stayed like that for a few minutes. Relaxing his body.
"Stop it, Kendall, don't do this to yourself," he told himself. It was too early in the morning to freak out. He still had an entire day ahead of him.
He looked up as Kelly entered his office again. She wasn't carrying paperwork this time, so it was probably a social visit. She held a cup of coffee toward him as she sat across from him.
"Decaf, per Pen's instructions," Kelly said.
"Thanks, Kel," Kendall replied, accepting the cup, "so what's up? No contract this time, so nothing bad I hope."
"The opposite, actually," Kelly said.
"What now?" Kendall asked.
"A package came," Kelly said, smiling.
"Ok, and?" Kendall asked.
"A big one," Kelly replied.
"Ok, being all cryptic isn't helping," Kendall said.
"For Kyle," Kelly added.
"Kyle is taking time off," Kendall said quickly. He wasn't gonna make Kyle come in for anything. Not until this was all taken care of.
"Oh, I know, but trust me, he's gonna want to see this," Kelly said, standing up. She gave him a look that said follow me.
"What are you up to?" Kendall asked as he stood up. He followed her from his office. He wasn't sure what could be so important that Kyle needed to come into the studio. He was sick and needed to rest. Kelly knew that, too, so this must be something important.
"Just trust me," Kelly said, grabbing his arm and leading him along to the studio.
—Happy Mistakes—
Clang!
Kyle jumped as he woke up. He snatched his phone, asking Siri for the time. It was only early afternoon. No one should be here except him. He looked around, confused. He heard the noise again. It sounded like pots and pans rattling. He set his phone down as he jumped up.
He made his way to the kitchen. He paused in the entryway when he saw Jake, Adam, and Cooper trying to pick up the pans they had knocked over.
"Guys, I just washed those this morning," Kyle groaned, watching them.
They all jumped and turned around, shocked.
"Kyle," Cooper said, shocked.
"Shouldn't you be in school/what are you doing here!" Jake and Adam asked in unison.
"Really?" Kyle asked.
"Oh, right," Jake said, walking over to him. "Pops isn't here, is he?"
"No, he's at work. He won't be home until late. Marcie is dropping the kids off after four once Jer and Miles are here to help me watch them until dad gets home," Kyle said slowly. He looked between his brothers suspiciously. "What are you guys doing here? In the middle of the day?" He asked, looking at his watch.
"Good question," Adam said.
"Gonna answer it?" Kyle asked after no one spoke.
"Uh, we didn't think you would be here," Cooper said.
"Dad and Pops won't let me go back as long as I'm getting chemo," Kyle replied.
"Right, so can we just pretend this never happened," Adam asked.
"Yeah, we were never here," Jake said, giving him a hopeful smile.
"No, I'm not dumb," Kyle said, "I may have a hard time with words, but I'm not stupid." He gave them a look that said don't mess with me.
The front door opened. Jake and Adam jumped and ran to the bathroom that adjoined the downstairs bedroom across the hall, with Cooper pleading with Kyle not to rat them out. Kyle sighed and shook his head, calling them idiots. He turned around as Damien entered the kitchen.
"About time," Kyle said walking over to the older man.
"Sorry, Diane wants me to apologize for her as well since someone didn't listen to her and used her soup for the daily special last night. She had to make a fresh batch for you this morning," Damien said.
"You need to tell Diane she's awesome, but she didn't have to make a special batch just for me," Kyle said.
"Yeah, she did. She said it was her pleasure. She wants you to get better, and if this is one of the few things you can keep down right now, she said she would make it every day for you," Damien said.
"She is too sweet," Kyle said with a small smile.
"So, you here alone?" Damien asked.
"Nah, your husband and his stupid brother are being very sus," Kyle said.
"Kyle!" Jake gasped.
"I saw Adam's car outside," Damien hollered.
The three entered the kitchen again. Jake gave Damien a confused look as he walked over to him.
"Damien's been bringing me lunch lately," Kyle explained, "Diane's chicken soup is one of the few things I can keep down for longer than an hour or two," he said.
"Oh," Jake said.
"Yeah, cancer, zero out of ten. I would not recommend it. Chemo like negative a hundred out of ten," Kyle said.
"You need to stop hanging out with Miles. His awful sense of humor is rubbing off on you," Jake sighed.
"Nah, in case you forgot, it was not having MIles around that drove me over the edge," Kyle replied.
"Anyways," Adam said, "We really should get going."
"Right, I didn't even want to come in the first place," Cooper said.
"So let's go then," Adam said, ushering Cooper towards the door. "Jake, you coming?"
"Want me to tell Pops you dropped in," Kyle asked, causing Adam to freeze.
"Why bother him? It's fine. You don't need to tell anyone," Adam said quickly.
"Oh, I think I do," Kyle said, grinning. This was the most fun he had had in days. Picking on his brothers was always fun.
"Even when you're sick, you're still an evil little brother," Jake said, shooting him a glare. "What do we gotta do to keep you quiet."
"At this point, I'm home alone most days and bored. I need some form of entertainment, and this could be fun," Kyle said.
"Come on, just for now, keep this between us," Jake asked.
"Why?" Kyle asked.
"Because you're an awesome little brother," Adam suggested.
"Hardly," Kyle snorted, which turned to a cough. He turned away from them.
"Sit down kid, eat your lunch. Don't you have appointments this afternoon?" Damien asked as he steered Kyle to the table with his soup. He grabbed a spoon on the way.
"Yeah, Jared should be here soon," Kyle said as he sat down.
"Jared?" Adam asked, taking a seat with Kyle.
"Yeah, he's been taking me to my appointments since pops has been back to work," Kyle replied. "Don't worry, and I won't tell pops you guys were looking for his recipe again."
"How did-" Adam started.
"We are not-" Jake started.
"Do I look stupid?" Kyle asked.
"Man, I miss the days when you couldn't talk," Jake said, earning a laugh from Kyle. The others laughed as well.
"That was a good one," Kyle said.
"Come on! He has to have it here. It's not at the house we combed that entire kitchen," Adam said.
"Don't know, maybe you should ask him." Kyle shrugged.
"Kyle, please, just don't tell pops," Jake said.
Kyle opened his mouth to reply but paused as they heard the front door open. Everyone looked to the kitchen entrance as Jared entered.
"Do you not know how to answer your phone anymore?" Jared asked, his voice raspy.
"What happened to your voice?" Adam asked.
"Vocal strain is a real thing," Kyle said, "but it's been almost a week; maybe you should get checked out."
"I'm fine, and you need to get dressed and ready for the studio. Your dad has been trying to call you for an hour now," Jared rasped.
"Studio? I've been banished by him," Kyle replied.
"I know, but something showed up at the studio for you, and you need to be there for it. So can you fake it for like an hour?" Jared asked.
"An hour? That's a long time to fake it," Kyle replied with a grin.
"Stop it; go get dressed," Jared said, his cheeks turning slightly pink.
"What is…why do I need to go to the studio," Kyle asked.
"A very important package arrived for you, and you need to be there to accept it," Jared said. His phone started ringing. He fished it from his pocket. He passed it over to the blonde. "It's your dad, and it's for you."
"What?" Kyle asked.
"I don't wanna hear him yell again. Just answer it," Jared said.
"Hello?" Kyle said.
"Kyle?" Kendall asked, confused.
"No, this is Jared…all better, and…I ss-sound like Kyle," Kyle said sarcastically.
"You're not funny," Kendall sighed.
"I think I'm…funny," Kyle replied. "What do you want? I thought I was…banned."
"Not banned, just on leave while you get better, but something arrived for you," Kendall said.
"What?" Kyle asked, confused. What could be so important that Kendall would want him to come into the studio? He was forcing Kyle into house arrest while he was getting chemo.
"Can you put on a smile for an hour and get down here? This is something you need to see for yourself," Kendall said.
"Ok, can I eat my lunch first? I am not going to chemo on an empty stomach again," Kyle said.
"I don't know why you listen to Miles," Jared mumbled.
"Hey, I live and learn. I know now, " Kyle said, sticking his tongue out at Jared. Jared just put his hands up.
"Can you be here by 1:30?" Kendall asked.
"Yeah, I'll even fake a smile," Kyle said.
"Just give me half an hour. It'll be worth it," Kendall said.
"This better be," Kyle replied as he hung up. He handed Jared his phone. "I will eat my soup, and then we can go. This better worth it."
"It will be, trust me," Jared replied.
—Happy Mistakes—
Leora yawned as she made her way to the cafeteria with Lucas. He was anxiously telling her about his upcoming date with Artie.
"We've officially been together for a year now. It's so crazy," Lucas said.
"I know. I remember when Caleb and I hit a year, it felt like no time at all, yet forever," Leora said.
"Exactly," Lucas said, "like I can't imagine not having him in my life, and barely I remember a time before him. I just…I love him."
"Have you told your dad?" Leora asked.
"He won't listen," Lucas sighed.
"Then show him," Leora replied, "I think if he sees you two together, he will realize how much you two care about each other. Likes it so sickeningly cute."
"Yeah, maybe, but how? He won't even agree to have Artie in the house," Lucas said.
"Maybe invite him out, trick him," Leora said.
"Artie would never agree either. He's so scared of being a disappointment again or of being judged for…you know," Lucas said.
"Then we will just have to work together," Leora said, smiling.
"Are you hatching a scheme?" Lucas asked.
"Totally, I've got a genius idea," Leora said quickly, a plan forming in her mind.
"Lucas! Leora!"
The pair looked up as Miles came running up to them. Miles barely came to a stop in front of them.
"Where's the fire?" Lucas asked.
"I gotta go. Papi called and said I had to get to the studio ASAP. Can you guys get Kyle's homework from Harris this afternoon?" Miles asked.
"Studio? Why you?" Leora asked.
She still felt a little off-kilter around Miles. Sure, he had apologized, and they moved on, but things were weird. She wasn't sure they would ever be the same as it was. She was sure that Miles got it, too, if the way he avoided eye contact with her was any indication.
"Don't know, he just said Kendall had me and Kyle come in for something," Miles shrugged.
"Yeah, don't worry, we got it," Lucas said.
"Thanks, you're the best," Miles said, throwing his arms around Lucas. He turned to Leora and paused.
"Yeah, we got it," Leora said.
He playfully and awkwardly punched her shoulder, thanking her as well before he took off. She watched him go, confused.
"Still weird, huh?" Lucas asked.
"Very, I don't think things will ever be normal again," Leora replied.
"I get that what they did was awful, but like, I can kind of see their side of it too," Lucas said slowly.
"Now I get it, but like, I just…I feel used," Leora said, "like my feelings were real, and he just used me to get over Kyle. I-I don't know if we can get past this."
"You and Kyle are doing better," Lucas pointed out.
"He's my brother, and right now…him getting better is the main concern. Everything else is back burner," Leora replied.
"True; I'll handle Harris, by the way," Lucas offered. "He likes me more than those two because I actually do my work and pay attention."
Leora laughed at that. The heaviness was gone. She fell right back into conversation with Lucas, plotting ways to get Artie and Gerald to meet as they made their way to lunch.
—Happy Mistakes—
Kyle followed Jared into the studio. They were greeted by the sight of Miles chatting with Betsy and making her laugh. He had his camera sitting on the counter between them as well. He was absentmindedly toying with the strap as he talked. Kyle hadn't seen Miles with his camera in a while.
"What are you doing here," Kyle asked.
"Your dad got me out of school for the day," Miles said.
"What is going on?" Kyle asked, confused.
"It's awesome, come on," Miles said, practically jumping up and down.
"You guys really aren't gonna tell me?" Kyle asked.
"Nope, it's a surprise," Jared chuckled. He grabbed Kyle's hand and led him past Miles. Miles quickly followed them, bouncing still.
They approached Kendall's office as he left his office with Penelope. She was rattling off something about a meeting. They paused when they saw Kyle.
"About time," Penelope said with a smile.
"Aren't you on bed rest?" Jared asked.
"I couldn't miss this," Penelope said.
"What's going on," Kyle asked, getting irritated.
"Miles hasn't told you?" Kendall asked.
"I can keep a secret, but not for very long, so we better go," Miles said, ushering Kyle toward the studio.
Kendall and Jared laughed as they followed them. Penelope told Kendall she would stall his next meeting and catch up with them in a few minutes. Kendall thanked her as he took the lead on f the group.
"So I wasn't expecting this so soon," Kendall said. He stopped Kyle forcing him to look at him. "I need you to plaster on a smile and fake it for a little bit."
"What is going on?" Kyle asked.
"There are people in there waiting to give you something, and there is going to be a small interview," Kendall said as he straightened up the collar of Kyle's shirt. "If at any time you need to leave, let me or Jared or Miles know. I will cut it short if we need to."
"What came?" Kyle asked, racking his brain.
"Just smile and trust me, you'll love it," Kendall said.
"I guess I don't have a choice," Kyle said.
Miles stepped in front of him with his camera up and in his face. "Just trust us. This is gonna be awesome."
Miles backed into the room, keeping his camera on Kyle. Kyle followed him. In the studio was a group of people he didn't recognize, and next to them was a stand with a black sheet over it. There were also three chairs set up for an interview. There was a camera crew and someone Kyle did recognize from his interviews with RIAA, DJ Callie Costanza.
"What is going on here?" Kyle asked as he walked up to her. She gave him a hug.
"It's so good to see you again," Callie said, smiling at him. "We've got a surprise for you."
Kyle looked at the stand and recognized the shape. His jaw dropped as Callie's smile grew. He looked at her and then back to what he was sure was his record.
"Go ahead. It's yours," she said.
Kyle pulled the sheet off to reveal his platinum record. His jaw dropped in stunned silence. He hadn't expected it to show up yet. He wasn't sure what he had been expecting.
"We wanted to present you with your first, hopefully of many, platinum record," Callie said smiling.
"Wow," Kyle said in awe.
"If you're up for it, we'd like to do an interview with you and your dad," Callie said.
"Of course," Kyle said, "it's gotta be quick since I've got a prior commitment I can't miss."
"Sounds good, let's get you mic-ed up and we can get this going," Callie said.
Kyle nodded his head. One of the crew members got him and Kendall set up for the interview. It was quick. Callie asked about the album and the process they went through. She asked them what it was like working together.
"Oh my god, never work with your parents. It's the worst and best idea ever," Kyle said.
"I agree," Kendall chuckled.
"I can never skip without being grilled about where I'm going or what I'm doing. He's harder on me than the others and every song is a fight over what sounds better," Kyle said, "we usually come to a compromise and get it just right. This album was a lot of blood sweat and tears on both sides."
"Oh yeah, he's gotta question everything I say or tell me I'm out of touch with current trends," Kendall added.
"You are old man, but honestly there is no one else I'd rather work with," Kyle replied.
Callie giggled at his response. "So, it's a tough working relationship?"
"Sometimes, and sometimes it overflows to home but, at the end of the day he's my dad and he's taught me so much, and he's got a few platinum and gold albums to his name too, so he must know a thing or two," Kyle said.
"This isn't my first rodeo kid," Kendall chuckled.
Soon Callie was packing up with her crew and leaving. Kyle thanked them once more. Soon as they were gone Matt, Noah, Roldy, and Gustavo
"Hey, kid," Gustavo greeted Kyle. "You did it, on your first try too, now we need to figure out what's coming down to make room for yours. My vote is Yard Squirrel Christmas," he said.
"No way that's classic," Kendall said, shaking his head. He knew how much Gustavo had detested that song. It was the only reason it was kept up.
"That's what we were saying," Matt replied.
"Nah, I say we take down Boys in the Attic," Roldy said.
"Hey now," Gustavo said.
"Yeah, Boys in the Attic we're definitely you're strangest band and they only had one gold record," Kendall said.
"Wow," Kyle said looking at the award. "This is…it really happened."
The others all turned back to him. He was in still in awe. He couldn't believe that this was tea. It was finally sinking in the impact his music was having on people.
"Yeah, enough people bought and streamed your songs," Jared said.
"I-I…wow," Kyle said again.
"Told you this was worth it," Kendall said, nudging Kyle lightly.
"Yeah, totally worth it," Kyle said, nodding his head.
"The first one is always the best," Kendall said walking along the wall. He looked up at Big Time Rush's first gold record for their debut album.
"This one showed up before the gold one did," Kyle said, "I'm sure it went so quick they probably just skipped it."
"Probably, but this is because of all your hard work and the hours you put into itp. You made this happen," Kendall said.
"Yeah, but you helped," Kyle said, "Jared and Miles too." He added turning to face them as well. "I don't think this would have happened without any of you there to encourage me and help me along the way."
"You wouldn't have your knack for music if it wasn't for Gustavo," Kendall said.
"You're welcome, I saw a natural talent and I nurtured it, but then you went off with your pa to be a model," Gustavo said with a frown.
"But I came back," Kyle said.
"And look what you accomplished in just over a year," Gustavo said, "you are going places kid. So try and stick around a bit longer."
"I'm trying," Kyle replied. He knew that was Gustavo's way of saying he cared. He wasn't good with words.
"Good, so it's decided that we will take down yard squirrel Christmas and make room for your first of many awards," Gustavo said.
"No one decided," Kendall cut in.
"I thought we agreed on Boys in the Attic," Noah said.
"We can discuss this later," Kendall said, "can I have a moment with Kyle?"
"Yeah, come on guys we've got mail," Matt said looking at Noah and Roldy.
"Jared, Miles you too," Kendall said. They all left the room. "Gustavo don't you have a meeting to be at?"
"Don't you?" Gustavo replied, "I guess I'll go and stall."
He too left the room. Kyle turned away from Kendall to look at the record again. Kendall walked up next to him.
"I'm proud of you," Kendall said, "your pa is too, I called him and he said he'd try and be here for this but his meeting probably ran late."
"It totally did, but I am here now," James said as he entered the room. He ran up to Kyle and pulled him into a hug. "I am so proud of you."
"We will support you and help you achieve your goals no matter what. Whether it's music or modeling we are here for you," Kendall said.
"Thanks, both of you," Kyle said, looking between them. "All this hard work… this would not have….happened without both…you behind me pushing me," he said slowly.
"Always, we have your back," James said, "even when you don't make the smartest choices we will be here. We will help you through it all. You are our son and we love you no matter what."
"Through thick and thin, kid, we onlwant what's best for you," Kendall added.
Kyle felt tears come to his eyes. He looked away from them as he tried to compose himself. He took a steading breath.
"This is awesome with everything else going on," Kyle said.
"Speaking of that, everything else," Kendall said slowly.
"Yeah, I know we gotta say something soon," Kyle sighed.
"The art of distraction. We can release a small statement stating you're dealing with some personal and health issues and ask for privacy at this time," Kendall said.
"Rumors are swirling the sooner I address them the better," Kyle said.
"Which ones?" Kendall asked.
"All of them, if I am not honest I'm done for," Kyle said.
"But the police investigation is ongoing so you can't say much about the overdose," James reminded him.
"Yeah I get that, but the-the other stuff," Kyle said.
"We will support you in whatever you choose to do, but we have to tread carefully about this and choose our words even more carefully," Kendall said.
"I know, all my-my words now are careful," Kyle replied.
"Smart ass," Kendall replied.
"Yeah, but I haveta—have to do this," Kyle said, slowing down his speech.
"Let me know what you need," Kendall said.
"I don't wanna do a press release," Kyle said, shaking his head. "Too many."
"An exclusive interview?" James asked.
"Yeah, sit down and talk, one on one," Kyle said, nodding his head.
"I think I know just the person," Kendall said slowly, "why don't you get going to your appointment and I will take care of getting this set up."
"Oh yeah, my appointment," Kyle said. For a moment he had forgotten about chemo. He forced a smile and nodded his head. He didn't want them to see his exhaustion. "I'll go find Jared and Miles and we will go."
Kyle made a hasty exit. He knew James wanted to ask him about Jared and Miles. He wasn't ready to answer those questions. The truth was that none of them knew what was going on. They were just living in the moment and taking things day by day.
He found the guys sitting in the lobby talking. There was a tenseness that didn't used to be there. Kyle was sure the others were itching to ask the same questions as James. Kyle didn't blame them. If any of them were in a situation like this he would want to know too.
"Time to go Jer. Are you coming too?" Kyle said, looking from Jared to Miles.
"Well I'm not going back to school," Miles replied cheekily. The others all laughed at that.
—Happy Mistakes—
James watched as Kyle dashed out of the room to find Jared and Miles. He stood there a moment, watching where he had run off to. He turned to Kendall, who was watching him. Kendall arched a brow at him, silently asking him what was wrong. James pressed his lips together with a sigh. He walked over to the blonde.
"I'm worried he's gonna hurt one of them again," James said.
"There's not much we can do about that. They are all adults now," Kendall said. He took James' hand in his and pulled him close.
"I know that I just…I don't want to end up back to where we were a few weeks ago for any of them," James said.
"I know, and I hope they learned from that enough to know that they all have someone to talk to here with us," Kendall said, "anyways, don't you have meetings this afternoon?"
"Yeah, but it's nothing major," James said, "I was thinking of playing hooky and heading home to spend time with Jenny."
"Yeah?" Kendall asked.
"Yeah, wanna join me?" James asked.
"I would love to, but Gustavo's got me in a meeting this afternoon that I can't miss," Kendall sighed.
"Come on, I'm sure he won't mind," James said, stepping up to the blonde.
"Actually, this meeting is very important," Kendall replied, "as much as I would love to take the afternoon with you, I can't afford to miss this meeting.
"Reschedule," James said.
"Already did, there is a tight timeline for this, and I just…I can't miss it. You go through, go be with the kids, and I will join you as soon as I can," Kendall said.
"Are you sure?" James asked.
"I am sure I can't miss this meeting. It's important," Kendall said.
"Fine," James sighed.
"Soon as this meeting is over I'll leave, but I can't miss this meeting," Kendall said.
"What is this meeting about?" James asked, confused. "You never turn down skipping work unless it's really really important."
"I cannot talk about this meeting. It is need to know, and you are not on the list. I signed an NDA," Kendall replied.
"Not this again," James sighed.
"I can neither confirm or deny what you are thinking, but I have to go. I'll see you later," Kendall said, stepping up to the brunette and giving him a kiss on the cheek.
"You'll never get Carlos and Logan to agree. They don't have time," James said.
"I don't know what you're talking about, I cannot discuss this," Kendall said as he walked away.
—Happy Mistakes—
Logan checked his watch as he made his way up the porch. He was running late and hoped Carlos wouldn't be too mad. He had a meeting this afternoon that had run late. Presely should be getting done with her treatment and would be home soon. He entered the house to laughter coming from the living room. It sounded like Layla had Millie and Erika over. He could smell good cooking, which meant either Carlos or Joanna was home. He made his way to the kitchen.
He saw Joanna at the stove cooking. She was stirring something in a big pot. It smelled amazing and reminded him of his childhood. He stood there a moment watching her add more to the pot. She glanced over and smiled at him waving.
"Hey mom," Logan greeted her, as he walked into the kitchen. "You didn't want to go with Presely today?"
"Carlos offered to take her, I think he wanted to talk to her," Joanna replied as she set her spoon aside and turned to face him.
"And treatment day seemed like the time to let him?" Logan asked.
"Why not, I'm sure he wants to get his word in and talk things out too. If this treatment fails he won't have another chance," Joanna said
"I guess," Logan sighed.
"What's wrong?" Joanna asked, looking up at him confused.
"He hasn't been alone with her since before she…" he trailed off looking towards the living room where Layla, Millie, and Erika were making a racket.
"I know, but you heard her. She's been in recovery and her and Lilly had a good talk thay first night she was here," Joanna said.
"Layla won't, if she's anything like me," Logan said.
"She is as obstinate as you," Joanna sighed, "on top of that she's got Carlos' ability to hold onto a grudge too."
"I know, she's also really caring and charming like Los, but smart like me," Logan said, "and the stubbornness can be good at times."
"I know, it's something you get from me," Joanna replied with a smile as he placed a hand on his shoulder.
"I fear it gets worse as the generations pass," Logan said. Joanna laughed at that nodding her head.
"Do you think Erika and Millie will be staying for dinner again?" Joanna asked.
"Mom you fed Millie once, she's never gonna leave now," Logan said.
"Oh," Joanna asked.
"Oh yeah, Carlos and I made that mistake and it's been almost ten years," Logan said.
"You should have warned me, I did that once with that unruly neighbor of ours when you were a kid and he dragged his two friends along and you have never separated from them since," Joanna said.
"Especially that loud obnoxious one with the dirty blonde hair."
Logan looked up as David entered the kitchen. PHe smiled at his dad.
"Oh please, you guys were just glad I was making friends," Logan said.
"I mean you were a lonesome kid, even back in Texas you didn't have many friends. I was so glad Kendall took you under his wing and forced you out of your shell," Joanna said.
"Under his wing? More like he saw that I was smart and wanted help with his homework so his mom would let him play hockey," Logan laughed.
"Whatever his motive at the start, I'm really glad he got you to open up," Joanna replied.
"Hey Gramma has dad or Papi come back yet?" Layla asked as she entered the kitchen. She spotted Logan and smiled.
"I'm here, and I guess so are Erika and Millie considering all the noise," Logan said
"Yeah, can we go to the mall after dinner?" Layla asked.
"After dinner?" Logan asked, "I'm surprised you're not trying to sneak out now."
"Are you nuts grandma is cooking, we don't wanna miss that," Layla said.
"Don't let your Papi hear that," Logan laughed.
"I eat his cooking all the time, but we barely get to see gramma and her food is delicious," Layla said.
"Thank you sweetie," Joanna said smiling.
"No seriously, you fed Millie and now she won't let us leave until we eat. She's never gonna leave now," Layla said, her expression dead serious. "The last time this happened Papi was in his venezuelan kick, her mom sent him a thank you note saying they were saving on groceries."
"She did, and not only did our grocery bill go up that month from Carlos but it was up for Millie as well," Logan nodded his head.
"She's very highly food motivated," Layla said, nodding her head.
—Happy Mistakes—
Carlos watched as Presley was hooked up to her port. This treatment was a lot like chemo, but it wasn't chemo. Presley was getting used to the process though and laughing with the nurses.
He had offered to take Presley to treatment today. Joanna and David were always busy bringing her. He wanted them to relax a little and not worry today. Besides, he wanted to have a chat with Presely alone. Logan and Lilly had their turns. It was his turn.
Once the nurses were gone, Carlos shifted next to her, reminding her that was was here.
"So, I take it you wanna talk," Presley said, her smile dropping.
"Kinda, but I wanted to help you too," Carlos said.
"I get it, Logan and I had our heart to heart and Lilly got her anger out at me the night she came down when we first arrived. You and Layla have to have your turns too," Presley said.
"I was mad at you for so long," Carlos said, looking away from her.
"I was mad at myself," Presley admitted.
"You weren't even remorseful once we found you. All you wanted to do was get your money and get more…" he trailed off. He looked up at her. "I just don't understand."
"Me either and I wish I could give you answers Carlos," Presely said, tears coming to her eyes. She tried to wipe them away, but more came. "All I can do is apologize and tell you in hindsight I know I was wrong. I was so lost then that nothing mattered to me. I am so sorry for all the pain and agony I put you and Logan through. Kendall and James too."
"It was one of the worst weeks of my life," Carlos said, "right up there with losing Lucas."
"I am so sorry Carlos," Presley said tears flowing.
"That's all I've ever wanted Pres," Carlos said, his own tears coming. "I wanted to help you and I wanted to realize what you had done was wrong."
"I wasn't in a place for help then, but a year ago I overdosed and dad finally had enough. He cut me off and told me if I wasn't going to take sobriety seriously he wasn't gonna stand by and watch," Presley said.
"What made that different then Logan and I cutting you off," Carlos asked curiously.
"Dad was the one person who never stopped trying. He was always there for me and trying to push me to get clean. Him finally giving up made me see how deep I was," Presley explained. Carlos nodded his head. "I started treatment again and after ninety days sober I told him I was in for good as long as he had my back."
"Then the cancer?" Carlos asked.
"Two weeks after," Presely said, "some kind of cosmic punishment I guess."
"It can feel like that at times," Carlos said.
"Yeah, so I had yet another reason to get clean. No doctor would look at me if I wasn't," Presely said.
"So last fall when you showed up," Carlos said slowly.
"I wanted to talk to my big brother. I wanted him to listen and tell me it was gonna be ok like he used to when we were younger and it was thundering out and he would hold me close and read me a bedtime story. I wasn't looking for a doctor or a miracle treatment. I just wanted my big brother," Presley replied.
"But he was still mad and wary," Carlos said.
"And rightfully so," Presley agreed. She paused as she looked up at her medicine. "After that I decided to give him space and focus on my treatment."
"But we know how your mom is," Carlos said.
"Yeah, she didn't want our last words to each other to be hurtful," Presely said.
They lapsed into silence. Carlos glanced around the room. He wasn't sure what to say next here. He could tell Presely was remorseful. She knew she was wrong. He had forgiven her a while ago. It wasn't her fault really. It was the drugs. They had driven her over the edge into her addiction. She hadn't had control over her life back then. She was more in control now.
"I forgave you a long time ago, you know," Carlos said.
Presely's head snapped up. She looked at him confused.
"I know if you hadn't given into your addiction you never would have done what you did," Carlos said.
"Honestly? No I wouldn't have," Presely agreed.
"I know, which is why I forgave you. I still wanted that apology, but I understood. Addiction is hard. It a hard thing to maintain and get under control. I am proud how far you've come in the last year, I know the circumstances weren't the best, it you'll get past this and hopefully have time to fix those broken bridges," Carlos said.
"You sound so optimistic," Presely said.
"Well one of us has to," Carlos said, reaching out for her hand. Presley took his hand with a small smile. "Until you can believe it yourself you've got me and Logan in your corner."
"Thank you," Presley said.
"And give Layla some time. She will come around, she's got big feelings and cares deeply. She just needs to sort this out in her head before she talks to you," Carlos said.
"I hope so, I'll let her yell too, like I did for Lilly and Logan," Presley said.
"Layla is not like that," Carlos said, shaking his head.
If any of his kids got their temperament from him, it was Layla. She was the quiet angry one. Much like Carlos was. If either of them were yelling it was a bad bad sign and you should hide. Lilly and Miles on the other hand were quick to go off much like Logan was at times.
—Happy Mistakes—
Damien made his way up to his apartment. He was late getting home. He had been in a meeting with one of his professors. It had been a last minute thing so he hadn't been able to text Jake.
He opened the door and saw Jake on the floor with Eli. Eli was on his tummy playing with some of his toys.
"Hey Day," Jake said looking up at him. "We are having some tummy time."
"I can see that," Damien replied with a smile. He joined the two on the floor. "Where's my dad?"
"He's not home yet either," Jake said sitting up. "Why were you so late?" He asked.
"I was talking with Professor Dubois," Damien said slowly.
"Oh, what did he want? Another opportunity for you to go to France?" Jake asked, arching a brow at him.
"Yeah, he really thinks a semester or two abroad would be beneficial for me to really get the culture and language down," Damien said.
The pair were interrupted as Steve entered the apartment. Jake looked down at Eli who had pushed himself up almost to a crawling position before he would fall back down.
"So close," Jake smiled at his son.
"Hey boys, so good news you two won't have to put up with me much longer," Steve said.
"Did you find an apartment?" Damien asked looking up at Steve.
"Actually no," Steve said as he walked over to the pair.
"Are you moving back in with mom?" Damien asked, trying not to sound too hopeful.
"Actually, yeah," Steve said, nodding his head. He crossed the room and sat down on the couch. "We've been seeing a counselor and working through this and it was never that I stopped loving your mom, it's just…she lied for twenty years. It was something we needed to talk about and move on from and I think we have." He said.
"Actually it's been twenty one years," Damien replied.
"Ok that's it, I'm done with you, your Logan's problem now," Steve joked, shaking his head. Jake and Damien started laughing.
"You'll keep me and Eli though right? He just adores you," Jake said.
"Of course," Steve replied.
"Rude," Damien said.
"Well you started it," Jake chuckled.
"But I was only stating facts that I am twenty one, and will be twenty two in a few months," Damien said.
"Stop, I'm not that old," Steve groaned.
"But you are," Damien groaned back.
—Happy Mistakes—
Matt entered the apartment. Nidia greeted him. She jumped up on his legs happily. Matty smiled and scooped the puppy up in his arms.
"Pen?" He called out.
"In the bedroom," Penelope called out. Matt headed into the room with Nidia in his arms. He found Penelope in the closet, packing her things. She was sitting in a kitchen chair and folding clothes into a box.
Matt cleared his throat and placed the puppy down with a slight frown, "This doesn't look like bed rest."
"Sorry, I got antsy," Penelope replied, looking up at him with a sheepish smile. She bit her lower lip nervously.
"What am I going to do with you?" Matt asked, cracking a smile.
"Love me, and don't worry. I have been checking my blood pressure, and it's only a little higher than normal, and I've been taking breaks and relaxing with Nidi," Penelope said.
"You're lucky you're cute," Matt sighed.
"Yeah," Penelope grinned.
"Come on, we need to talk," Matt said, holding a hand out to her.
"What's wrong?" Penelope asked as she took his hand.
"Nothing is wrong, but the guys and I have been talking," Matt said as he led her out of the room. Nidia followed them eagerly.
Once Penelope was sitting on the couch, she jumped up and rested her head against her stomach. Penelope smiled at the pup, scratching her ears as a reward.
"What have you been talking about?" Penelope asked.
"Postponing the tour," Matt said, taking a seat next to her.
"What? No, you can't do that," Penelope gasped. "You guys have been working hard on this and so many people are looking forward to the show."
"I know, but with everything going on, we think it might be best to postpone the tour a little bit, like maybe until after Gracie is born and Kyle is done with treatment," Matt said.
"Matty I'm fine," Penelope said quickly.
"I know you are, but I wanna be here when she is born. I wanna be with you and her in that delivery room," Matt said.
"Aw Matty, but-" Penelope started.
"Nothing is set in stone, but with you on bed rest and with everything going on with Kyle… and now Avery is away dealing with a family thing that might take her away for the next few months, we are discussing it," Matt said.
"What's wrong with Avs?" Penelope asked.
"You have to call her," Matt said, "it's not my place to say, and I don't know much either. She was kind of vague, but it's something she would probably tell one of her girlfriends."
"Get me my phone, please," Penelope requested, "it is on the bedside table charging."
"Yes, dear," Matt replied, jumping up. Penelope tossed a pillow at him. He laughed as he dodged it. Nidia ran at the pillow and snatched it and started to chew.
"Nidi no," Penelope said.
Matt snatched the pillow from the puppy. She looked up at him confused.
"No, not a toy," Matt said, shaking his head. He walked over to her toys and grabbed one. He tossed it for her. The pillow was forgotten.
—Happy Mistakes—
Leora looked down at her phone. She sighed as she realized she had been stood up. Lucas had set her up with one of Artie's friends a few weeks ago, and they had all gone out to mini golf together. Leora had exchanged numbers with him and they had been texting and agreed to meet up for a movie, but two days ago he had stopped texting. She had casually asked Artie if he had heard from him, but Artie said he was busy with an audition not to worry. He hadn't answered any of her questions confirming their date at all. Artie was gonna have some explaining to do.
She checked the time once more and the movie was halfway over with the next showing about to start. With a sigh she stood and started for the door. There was no way she was waiting any longer. She was almost out the door when someone ran into the building hitting her with the door. She stumbled back into someone as they ran past laughing.
"Watch where you're going asshole, you hit someone with the door!"
Leora whirled around to see the person she had bumped into was hollering at the jerk who ran past them. He had dirty blonde hair and dark brown eyes. He turned to Leora as the jerk ran off. They locked eyes and Leora felt like the wind was knocked from her lungs. He paused as he stared at her too.
"How are you?" He asked after a moment.
"I'm ok, I'm sorry," Leora said, quickly.
"You've got nothing to be sorry about," he said, glancing over his shoulder. "It's the asshole who almost mowed you down that should be sorry."
"Thank you for catching me," Leora replied, she felt heat creeping up her neck to her cheeks.
"Really? You pig!"
Leora looked up as a bleached blonde girl with a fake spray tan stormed up to the dirty blonde and slapped him. She huffed before turning to Leora.
"Careful with this one, I guess he sets up multiple dates in one night," she said before storming off.
"And thank you for saving me from a probably horrible date," the boy said as he rubbed his cheek.
"You're welcome I guess," Leora giggled.
"I was really looking forward to seeing the return of Tim Drake, the best detective Lakeview has," he sighed, referencing the movie Leora had been planning to see.
"Me too, but my date never showed up either," Leora replied.
"Well I already bought two tickets, do you want one?" He asked.
"I don't usually go to movies with complete strangers," Leora replied.
"I'm Carter," he said, holding out his hand, "now we're not complete strangers."
"Leora," Leora replied with a smile. "Well I don't want the ticket to go to waste."
"Here consider it my treat, if we hurry we can just make the beginning. I'm sure the previews are just getting started," Carter said.
"Since you bought the tickets I'll get the popcorn and drinks," Leora said.
"Bet," Carter agreed.
Leora led him to the concessions. They both got popcorn and a drink and Leora got sour patch kids and Carter, after some convincing that it was fine, got some M 's. They made their way to the theater and found their seats as the last preview was finishing.
—Happy Mistakes—
Kyle followed Miles into the house with Jared trailing behind him. They heard screaming coming from the kitchen.
"Looks like world war Jenny is raging," Miles said.
"Yeah, she's getting awful," Kyle sighed. They made their way to the kitchen. Kendall and James were trying to convince Jenny she couldn't just eat cookies for dinner and needed to try her other food.
"I don't care if you want cookies, you have to eat some of your dinner too," Kendall said.
"Hey, we're back," Kyle said. He walked up to Jenny and snatched a carrot from her plate. Jenny looked up at him scandalized. "What is so yummy, can you share?" He asked.
"No! Mine," Jenny said, pulling her plate close.
"But Jenny is so yummy," Kyle said, making a grab for her food again.
Jenny shook her head smacking his hand. She then grabbed a carrot and stuffed it in her mouth. She looked up at Kyle confused.
"Isn't it yummy?" Kyle asked.
Jenny nodded her head. She then turned to Kendall with another carrot in her hand. "It ummy, dada."
"I told you," Kendall replied with a smile.
"Thanks," James said, sitting back in his chair.
"Never underestimate the sibling rivalry of not sharing with your siblings," Kyle chuckled.
"There's food if you're hungry," Kendall said pointing towards the stove.
Miles ran and started dishing himself a plate. Jared followed suit. Kyle sat down across from Kendall.
"I'm not too hungry," Kyle replied.
"One step ahead of you," Miles said, placing one of his shakes down in front of him.
"How'd your appointment go?" James asked.
"No chemo today actually," Kyle replied, "transfusion. My labs were getting low. So we wait two weeks and check labs again and go from there."
"Check labs next week too," Miles said.
"Sounds good, when's your next scan to make sure things haven't spread," Kendall asked.
"After my last chemo session," Kyle said, "if everything gets back on track in two weeks it should be about four more sessions."
They settled into lighter conversation after that. Miles filled everyone in on the Presely drama and how things were going for Lucas and Gerald. Kendall and Jared talked shop while James and Kyle sat back just listening. Kyle knew James was watching him to make sure he drank his shake.
"Kendall, have you talked to him yet?" Jared asked.
"About what?" Kyle asked, turning to the older man.
"Not yet," Kendall replied.
"What?" Kyle asked, looking between them.
"Well the guys and I have been talking and with everything going on we think it's best to postpone the tour," Jared said slowly.
"Because of me?" Kyle asked.
"Partly, but Avery has been called away for a family emergency and is unreachable for the foreseeable future and with Matt and Pen having difficulties with baby, it just seems like maybe a few signs to postpone," Kendall said.
"Yeah, it does seem like a lot is pointing in that direction," Kyle said.
"You guys have had the worst luck these last six months," Miles said looking at Jared.
"I know, and we will most likely make the final decision by the end of the week," Jared replied.
"It's probably for the best, all things considered," Kyle said, nodding his head. He looked around for a moment. "Where's Leora?"
"She was going to a movie with a friend I believe," James said.
"A friend or a date?" Kyle asked.
"Yeah, isn't she dating one of Artie's friends?" Miles asked.
"Well she didn't tell us it was a date," James clarified.
"Must not have worked out," Kyle shrugged.
—Happy Mistakes—
Leora laughed as she looked across the table at Carter. She smiled as she listened to him talk. There was just something about it. She had been so ready to say goodbye after the movie, which had been awesome, but Carter charmed her into frozen yogurt as a thank you for saving him from a horrible date. He was currently telling her about another disastrous date he had been on with a stage five clinger. Leora watched him talk. His hands moved and his eyes were expressive. He was a storyteller, that was for sure. He sucked her in and had her laughing along with him. She shared a few of her horrible dating stories too.
"Both of these were set up by my brother's friends too," Carter said, shaking his head.
"I don't think your brother is the matchmaker he thinks he is," Leora replied.
"What about you, what's your story," Carter asked.
"My friend set us up a few weeks ago and we went to mini golf the four of us and up until about two days ago we were texting. Today nothing, and I gave him the benefit of the doubt but he never showed up and I waited til the next showing to see if he mixed up the time," Leora said shrugging.
"Sounds like you got ghosted," Carter said.
"This is why I hate dating actors," Leora said, shaking her head.
"Ah yes, can't say I've had much experience with that yet. I've dated a musician but she took off without a single goodbye and now she's making love songs with some dill-hole when she claimed those songs were about me," Carter said, waving a hand.
"And you're not bitter at all," Leora laughed, leaning closer to him. She just get so drawn to him.
"Nah, he can have her. She's fake. I bet she writes the same songs for everyone," Carter replied.
"You gotta be careful dating in Hollywood that's for sure," Leora sighed.
"Definitely," Carter said.
The two sat and swapped a few dating horror stories. Soon they were talking about movies and music. Conversation just flowed. Leora couldn't remember the last time she had had fun like this. It was so strange. This was not how she thought this night would end. She felt herself moving closer to him and bumping him as they spoke. He seemed to be touching her hand more and laughing right with her. Butterflies erupted in her stomach as they talked.
As Carter walked her back to her car, she suddenly felt a little nervous. This had almost felt like a date. She didn't want to assume wrong, but Carter was great. He was funny, kind, and caring. He knew what he wanted and took it. She wanted to ask for his number, but was scared he didn't think this was a date. What if he laughed at her?
"So," Carter said once they reached her car. Leora paused to look at him. "Correct me if I'm wrong here, but this felt an awful lot like a date."
Leora started laughing as she nodded her head. "I was just thinking the same thing."
"Ok, so can I have your number so that I can take you to dinner this weekend? Like on a real date," Carter asked.
"I'd like that," Leora said, pulling out her phone. Carter did the same and they exchanged phone numbers.
"Cool, I was worried you were gonna say no, that's uh…why I waited til now to ask," Carter said, his cheeks flushing red.
"I might be Friday night I'm not sure, but for sure Saturday night," Leora said as she opened her car door. She paused, "I had fun, I'm glad you were there to catch me."
"It's almost as if you fell for me," Carter asked with a grin. Leora laughed at that nodding her head. "In all seriousness I'm sorry someone Al most knocked you over, but I too am glad I was there to catch you."
"I better get going, but I will text you once I know my availability and you can decide on where you wanna take me. Nothing too fancy though, I hate stuffy waiters in this town," Leora said.
"I'll keep that in mind," Carter replied. He stepped up to her, "may I?" He asked.
Leora nodded her head. She had never had anyone, aside from Caleb, ask permission. He leaned in to kiss her cheek. In a bold move, Leora turned and captured his lips. Carter took a step back in shock, his cheeks red again.
"I don't normally do that," Leora said, the heat rising to her cheeks now.
"Me either," Carter replied.
Leora took a step closer and kissed him again. Carter gasped shocked but quickly pulled her close and kissed her back. He backed her up against her car as he continued to kiss her. Leora's hands came up to his neck pulling him closer. They parted when the need for air became too great.
"So Saturday?" Leora asked, a small smile playing across his lips.
"Yeah, I'll text you the details," Carter nodded. He took a step back from her.
"I should go," Leora said, looking at her open car door. She knew she should leave, but part of her wanted to kiss him again.
"Yeah probably," Carter said.
"You're stalling," Leora said, smiling. She was too.
"Yeah, I think we both are," Carter replied.
"Is it weird I don't want this night to end," Leora said.
"Me either," Carter replied.
Leora bit her lip as she glanced at her car. In the back of her mind she knew that she should leave and go home. However, a big part of her wanted to explore where this was going.
"I could give you a ride," Leora offered, "so you don't have to waste more money on an Uber." She added.
"Yeah, saving money is good," Carter nodded.