AN: I'm back with a new chapter! I'm hoping to update twice this month. This chapter is during the last day in Minnesota and Elle spends a bit more time with Kendall. I recommend you listen to WithMe by Sum 41 towards the end of the chapter. Please review, it takes hours to write a chapter and only seconds to review!

The album release party was in full swing by the time midnight rolled around. James' mom's house was packed full of friends, family, and people from their record label. It was like something out of The Great Gatsby, alcohol flowed and the music rattled the chandelier. The pool and patio alone would give any house in Hollywood a run for its money. It was definitely bigger than my luxury apartment. James wasn't coy about this as he indulged in more champagne.

"My mom owns a cosmetics company and we both have a taste for the finer things." He explained with a less than modest grin. "And it's more private than renting out a hotel."

We had counted down the album's release and when it reached midnight the cheers were almost louder than the music. The guys toasted and piled on top of each other. It was heartwarming to see their hard work finally be released to the world. I knew exactly how exciting it was to put out a new album, I could only imagine the relief and satisfaction they felt. I joined their circle and clinked my glass to theirs.

"Congratulations, I'm proud of you."

"Elle!" Logan greeted me with a plastered smile. "We're done! It's out."

I laughed as he pulled me into a hug. "It is!"

"You know what time it is? It's time to fucking party."

"He acts all nerdy but I think he would have been a killer frat boy," Carlos shouted over the music. "He pregamed by doing a keg stand."

"And I missed it? I better get to see a redo." I took a drink of my champagne and nudged him. "Congratulations by the way."

"Thank you!"

The four of them were smoking cigars that Griffin had sent over and it lingered in the air. James reached over and filled my glass back to the top, he was positively beaming with happiness. His eyes were glazed over and red in the way that only weed could cause.

"Did you ever think we'd be here? It seems like yesterday we were carrying Mrs. Majakowski down her driveway so Logan could drive."

Logan grimaced and shook his head. "Logan's too drunk to drive."

"Mrs. Maja who?" I asked, leaning in closer to hear.

"Our neighbor. None of our moms could drive us to the auditions and Logan only had his learner's permit. She was the only licensed driver we could think of. Kendall convinced her to let us drive her car." James was a bit wistful. "And now we're here, with our fifth album."

Carlos was animated. "She's the best. We send her a Christmas gift every year. Kendall helped her get into this sweet retirement home. He still pays for it."

I had avoided Kendall's eye since I arrived at the party. His song from earlier was still in my head and every time I looked at him all I could think about was how I wanted him to kiss me. He seemed in a good mood and happy when the countdown happened. But when I turned to look at him he was busy inspecting the contents of his cup.

"That's wholesome."

Logan wandered off after that, stating he wanted another drink. James went to check on the caterers and Carlos seemed interested in some redhead across the room. That left Kendall and I alone in the crowd. I drained my cup just to have something to do.

"Uh, congrats on the album." I sucked air through my teeth. "I can't wait to listen to it."

He glanced over and forced one corner of his mouth up. "Thanks, that means a lot."

I had just enough champagne on an empty stomach to let my words come out easily. "I liked the song. I know what almost happened but I wasn't thinking. That can't happen again."

He seemed indignant about this and huffed. "You wanted to kiss me. I saw that look you had on your face."

"Maybe I did, maybe I didn't. But it doesn't matter, I don't trust you, Kendall. I can't risk it."

Kendall placed a hand on my shoulder and leaned in so I could hear him over the music. He reeked of tequila and cigar smoke. "I messed up, I know that. But trust me when I say that I have zero plans of hurting you again. I told you I'll spend my whole life trying to make it up to you. I miss you in so many ways."

This wasn't the time or place for this. "Celebrate your album, drink with your friends. We'll talk about this tomorrow."

"Promise?"

I shook my head at his persistence. "Yeah. Like I said, you're not a bad person, you just fucked up. Tomorrow."

"Where are you going? That sounded like a goodbye."

"I just want one night that isn't about me being sad over you," I admitted and held up my cup. "You deserve one too."

He held his hands up in surrender as I stepped back. "Fair enough."

I started back into the crowd to find Liz or one of the guys. I was ready to be normal and not weighed down by Jett or Kendall or any other bullshit. But over the music, I could hear Kendall. When I turned he stood in the middle of the packed room but he looked at me like I was the only person.

"I'm not giving up on us, Eleanor!" He shouted over the music with a boyish, drunken, grin. "Not now, not ever. That's a promise!"

My shoulders raised in a half shrug as I walked away. His words left me with hot cheeks and a flurry of nerves in my stomach. We'd see what tomorrow would bring.

The sun streamed through the windows and I cursed my past self for not closing the blinds. The next morning brought a slight headache and a dry mouth. When I sat up I was confused for a brief moment. I had slept over at James' house in one of the guest rooms. Liz had gone back to the hotel after I assured her I'd be fine. I had stuck to the three drink limit I had set for myself, so I wasn't too hungover just thirsty.

"Elle, open up." I staggered over to the door and unlocked it. James looked amused. "You locked yourself in?"

I rubbed the sleep from my eyes. "Kendall has a habit of just walking in and I wanted to be alone."

"Fun party, right?"

Flashes of drunken dancing and celebrating came to my mind. The party had raged until nearly five in the morning and I think I witnessed Logan consume every kind of alcohol known to man. But overall it had been a blast and I smiled. "How's the album doing?"

"Number one in 18 countries and climbing. It's number one on Apple Music and Spotify too."

"That's awesome!" I pulled him into a hug and noticed how sweaty he was. "You were four times as drunk as I was. Did you workout?"

He flexed and showed off his sizeable arm muscles. "Everyday, baby."

"That sounds awful. Thanks for letting me crash."

"Anytime, the guys did too. But Liz is sending a car so you can go back to the hotel. I doubt you want to wear those clothes to breakfast."

James was leading me down a long hallway that was covered in pictures of him as a kid. "What breakfast?"

"Another tradition. There's family breakfast before we all go our separate ways. Katie and Mama Knight fly out later and Logan's dad as some business conference in Des Moines."

"I'm not family." I reminded him. "I don't want to intrude."

He rolled his eyes and jogged down the stairs. "Whatever. You're family and you know it. Besides, it's your last chance for tater tot goodness."

"Disgusting. I'd rather go to Arizona and eat a mouthful of sand."

The downstairs of his house was strewn with glasses and cups and a large cleaning crew was scrubbing every corner. James dug around a large closet and produced my purse and shoes.

"The whole pretty, rich boy lifestyle suits you." I mused as I slipped them on. "Seriously."

He gave a smug smile. "As long as you think I'm pretty. I'll send you the address for the diner. I have to go rouse the morons from their drunken slumber."

"Good luck. And Logan may need his stomach pumped, fair warning."

"That's what housekeepers are for. Carlos is easy enough if you promise food and Kendall's been drinking almost every day since you left. I'm surprised he can still even get drunk."

At the mention of Kendall, I remembered my promise to talk about what happened the night before. My expression soured and James looked concerned.

"Sorry, should I have not brought him up? I know you guys spent a few days together."

"It's fine. He's just determined that's all."

James swirled his protein shake around and laughed to himself. "He likes you."

"Really? I couldn't tell."

"I think he's sorry for what it's worth. Do you like him?"

"James..." I warned as I checked my purse for all my belongings.

He put up his hands. "Hey, it's a fair question. You've spent the night at his house, he made dinner, you met his mom. And he said something that made you red as fuck last night. I was out on the patio and saw him shouting."

"You're so damn nosey. It's really unbecoming."

"Sorry, sorry. I'm just curious." He apologized but then jostled me. "You've been spending a lot of time together. Are you gonna get back together?"

Outside, an SUV pulled into the large brick driveway. I was grateful I didn't have to answer his question.

"Saved by the car."

James just groaned and opened the door. "Fine, be boring. I'll see you in a bit."

As the car drove off, I leaned my head back. Kendall's promise of not giving up on us played in my mind. The song he sang me last night and the way we almost kissed did too. Thinking about my feelings for him made my head throb. I shook my head and made up my mind. Serious questions weren't meant to be answered before breakfast and that was that.

Breakfast worked out in my favor. After a shower and change of clothes, I found myself at the end of the table with Carlos and his parents. They were perfectly neutral. Carlos could talk about almost anything at length and his mom asked if her sleeping spray had helped at all. I didn't have the heart to tell her I hadn't used it yet because I had spent the past few nights in my ex whatever's bed. But I nodded and thanked her anyway. It was the last day in Minnesota so this was a goodbye breakfast. The guys, their families and I crowded around a large table. Liz had turned her nose up at the idea of diner food and opted to eat with Gustavo and Kelly. She had made a point to mention how glad she was about the summer almost being over. It was late August and the tour would end in just two weeks time. We set out for Canada later today and would finish in LA at the Tween Choice Awards.

The guys were looking forward to the home stretch of the tour but I still had a bit more work to do. I would be filming a music video over the course of two days next week. I would be releasing a deluxe version of my album in October and it would feature a few new songs. Liz and my label thought it would be a good idea to release a post-Kendall Incident video. I'd also be doing an interview to finally clear the air of any speculation about me and Kendall. The only problem was that I didn't know where we stood or what I wanted.

Someone's staring.

James had texted me from his seat further down the table. Sure enough, Kendall was looking at me and quickly turned his head when he saw me. I replied to James text and told him to get a life and eat his carb-loaded nonsense. Once breakfast ended, it seemed like the guys were all going home to spend a little more quality time together. I took this as my cue to head back to the hotel despite Logan's mom's protest.

"Are you sure? You're more than welcome to come over." She asked as we walked out into the parking lot.

Logan had been green in the face all of breakfast and he had worn his sunglasses the whole time. His hungover must have been record-breaking and he rubbed his temples.

"I'm fine, Mrs. Mitchell. I have some packing to do but thank you."

"If you say so, take care of yourself."

We said goodbye and I was getting ready to call the car service to take me back to the hotel. The air was thick and muggy as dark storm clouds rolled in on the horizon. It had been nothing but rain and storms since we got here. Katie came over and handed me her card.

"If you could pass that onto Danielle, I'd appreciate it."

"Totally, there's no reason she wouldn't hire you anyway. When's your flight?"

"We're heading to the airport now. It's next to the hotel, we could drop you off."

Across the parking lot, Kendall was climbing into the driver seat and I hesitated. It was faster than the car service but I wasn't sure if I was ready to speak to him yet. Katie had picked up on this and seemed annoyed with him.

"He's too hungover to talk right now." She held her hand out to check for raindrops. "And it's going to downpour any second."

Thunder rumbled overhead and proved her point. Lightning streaked across the sky and my decision was made. "If you don't mind."

"My mom likes to get to the airport way too early so it's cool."

Kendall seemed surprised to see me climb into the backseat but his mom brightened. She turned around in her seat as he drove.

"So you have two weeks of tour left?"

"Yep and then I'm done for a while."

"What are you going to do after?"

I honestly hadn't thought of that yet. There was a European tour being worked out but that wouldn't be until after the holiday season. "I'll probably end up writing more songs and lay low. My manager deserves a long vacation after this tour."

"Well, don't work yourself too hard." She said this with the amount of concern only a mom or Liz could manage. "You deserve a vacation too."

"We could always hang out. You have to know plenty of people who could use a new manager." Katie offered and pointed to the card I was still calling. "Or maybe I'll see you at Condor."

I shook my head at her determination. She and Kendall were clearly siblings. "I hope so. If Liz decides to retire early I'd hire you in a second."

"You hear that, Kendall? Elle trusts me to manage her. I'm just saying if you ever wanted to play hockey I could be your agent."

Kendall rolled his eyes good-naturedly. "Because there's definitely no conflict of interest there."

"You'll see, Knight Talent Management will make Gustavo have nightmares."

The rest of the ride to the airport was full of Jen reminding Kendall of things to do at his house before we left later today. It was sweet the way he just nodded along and assured her he wouldn't let the house fall to pieces while she was gone. When they got out of the car, I climbed out to say goodbye before they went inside.

"I'll get your number from my brother. Let's hang out when you finish the tour." Katie said. "I need more friends my own age."

I promised her we would and wished her luck with her interviews. She had always been on my side since we met, I could still see Kendall's annoyed face when I first met his sister. Jen held out her arms and was unashamed.

"I'm a hugger." I couldn't help but smile as we hugged. "It was really nice meeting you. Honestly, if you need anything in LA just give me a shout."

"Thank you, it was nice meeting you too." I meant this. Even if her son and I had a complicated relationship, she was still the kind of mom I'd kill to have. "Have a safe flight."

We separated for a moment as she helped Kendall get the bags out of the trunk. But as soon as he was distracted by Katie's directions she pulled me close once more.

"I hope we see each other again soon." She told me. "But if not, please take care of yourself."

My smile was weak but I nodded. "I will, thank you."

I waved as they walked inside. I wasn't going to intrude on a private goodbye, so I got back into the car. I took the time to scroll through my social media. The picture of me in Kendall's shirt was still being spread around but I was focused on Big Time Rush. The headlines made me smile.

Big Time Rush's Fifth Album Goes Straight to Number One.

We Can't Stop Listening to Don't Stop!

BTR's Mature Sound Wins Big Time Points with Fans and Critics.

The album was number one in a couple more countries than what James had mentioned earlier. It was trending on Twitter and it was selling out in some stores already. My friends' success made my day. I had originally been brought on tour not only to redeem my image but to help them win over older fans. I was glad my drama hadn't had a negative impact. I retweeted Billboard's post about the album being number one. I added, "Proud of you guys, congrats!" and a few heart emojis. I was replying to a few fans when a knock on the window made me jump.

"Hit the locks." Kendall was at the window, his shirt was already growing wet from the rain. "I'm not trying to get struck by lightning."

"Did they get checked in okay?"

Kendall wiped the water from his eyes and looked at the clock. "Three hours early but yeah. My mom thinks security takes all day. Their flight will probably get delayed though."

"It's cute." I held up my phone. "The album's doing well."

The smile that bloomed on his face was the first real one I had seen all day. "I can't believe it. I knew it would do okay but not this well."

"You should be proud. It's really good."

"That means a lot coming from you." He merged onto the highway. "So, are you busy?"

"On my day off? No, I'm not busy."

Kendall drummed his fingers against the wheel. "I know I was weird last night, but I really want to show you one more thing before we leave Shakopee."

"I saw the banner when we first got in. I can't believe you still have your own day."

"Shut up about the banner." He laughed and shook his head. "It's something I haven't shown you. It won't take long if you don't want it to."

Part of me was on alert. What if there was some horrible Midwest tradition to humiliate girls who rejected you? Or what if he had made bet with his stupid high school friends? I eyed him suspiciously but I watched as he swallowed a lump in his throat. He seemed just as nervous as that night in Dallas when he came to my hotel room after our very first kiss.

"What the hell? Fine."

I didn't think he expected to get this far because he did a double-take. "Really?"

"It's this or let Liz set up an interview."I gestured down to my clothes. "Plus, I'm already dressed."

He was visibly excited as we got back into town. "Okay, uh, shit. Cover your eyes."

"My eyes?"

We were at a red light and he brought his hands to his face. "Your eyes, cover them."

I was dubious but did it anyway. "Okay?"

"How many fingers am I holding up?"

"I can't see them, now can I?" I said from behind my hands. "This isn't some murder plot is it?"

He snorted at this. "No, not today."

"Not today." I echoed in mock relief. "Thank god. Seriously, what are we doing?"

"Patience, Len. We're almost there."

I hated to admit it but I was a bit eager. My stomach was full of butterflies and I was curious as to where we were going. He had shown me the main landmarks on the first day here. I had seen all the guy's houses and had breakfast at his favorite place. What was left?

"There isn't some Big Time Rush statue is there?"

"No, but never suggest that to James, he'll never let it go."

"You're not going to force hotplate down my throat are you?" I guessed once more.

"It's hotdish, not hotplate." He laughed. "And no, stop guessing."

The car came to a stop and I heard him get out and come around to my side. He pressed something soft to my face and I felt for it.

"Cover your face with this and give me your hand."

I blindly reached out for his hand. "This feels murdery."

"I promise I'm not going to murder you. I won't let you get hurt."

My steps were awkward and warm rain pelted us for a moment. I could tell we were inside because the thunder had grown softer. "We're in a building?"

"Yep." He gripped my waist and he sounded a bit giddy. "Step up. It's not a step but there's a little ledge."

I stumbled a bit but he held on tight. My own excitement was growing until I felt a cold chill on my wet skin. I scrunched my nose as he let go of me.

"Put your arms up but keep your eyes shut. No peeking." He warned as he moved the fabric from my face. He tugged it over my head. "There, that should keep you warm."

"Where the hell are we?" I moaned as I shivered, "I know you said you liked to make out in the dairy cooler at work but I'm not down for that. Plus, I don't like cheese or milk that much. I know that cheese is Minnesota's thing but it's not mine."

"That's Wisconsin, first of all." He grunted a little. "And two, it's a surprise."

"Fine." I huffed as goosebumps dotted my skin. "But if this is the dairy cooler and you're trying to come up with a plan B, I'm leaving."

He laughed but it sounded distant. "So impatient, Eleanor!"

"Where are you?"

"Open your eyes!"

I uncovered my face and squinted at the light. When my eyes adjusted I saw Kendall in a sweatshirt. He had a huge grin on his face and was coming towards me. He was on skates, in the middle of the ice rink. I looked around and saw empty bleachers. When I realized where we were my mouth went dry. Reddish orange banners hung from the rafters.

Welcome to the Shakopee High School Ice Rink!

"You said you wanted to learn," Kendall said as he came to a stop. "You said you always saw people skating in Christmas movies and that it looked fun."

I had said that, during the Fourth of July as we laid in the grass. It felt like a lifetime ago and I nodded. My voice was thick and my eyes stung. "You remembered?"

"Of course I remembered." His voice was fond. "You told me you wanted to trust me again. That's why I wanted to spend time with you the past few days. I wanted to show you the real me. This is who I am, this is where I came from. I'm not the guy I've been this summer. I swear to god, Elle. I just want you to know all of me."

The tears were warm against my cool skin and I hastily wiped them away. "You're sweet, Kendall. Really."

His smile was nervous but bright. "So, you want me to teach you?"

I sniffed and waved him over. "Yes, please."

He made his way over to me and came behind the wall separating me from the ice. He sat me down and reached under the bench and produced a few pairs of skates.

"There should be socks in that pocket." He unlaced the skates and held them up. "These should be your size."

I was still surprised as I put on the thick socks. "How did you pull this off?"

He ducked his head and rubbed the back of his neck. "I had the idea a few days ago. Coach Carter dropped off the key to the rink before you came downstairs after you stayed the night. And then I checked your shoe size when you were in the shower. Is that weird?"

"No," I answered quickly. "This is the sweetest thing someone's ever done for me."

"That's a crime. Ever since you told me that you wanted to learn, I've been thinking about it." He held out the skate. "You want it to be kind of snug. You have to balance on the blade and you can't have your ankles flopping around."

"I think these are good." I pushed my foot and wiggled my toes. "Now, do I just tie them?"

I watched as Kendall laced my skates for me. His fingers were quick and nimble as he tugged on the laces. He was down on one knee and a small part of my brain pictured him holding out a ring. The thought was intrusive and made me shake my head. The idea of Kendall proposing was not something I needed.

"I can't believe you remembered," I said trying to get the image of Kendall with a ring out of my mind. "That was such a small thing and it was weeks ago."

Kendall stopped lacing my skates and looked up from where he was kneeling. "I like when you talk. I wasn't kidding when I said I want to know you."

My ears were hot and I noticed the hoodie I wore matched the teeshirt I slept in the other night. "Is this yours too?"

"What can I say? You look better in my clothes than I do." He helped me to my feet. "So, you've never ice skated. You ever roller skate?"

"Once. At a birthday party in third grade." He seemed surprised by this fact. "What? Everyone had swimming parties, it's hot."

He stepped out on to the ice and held out his hands. "I won't bite."

I shuffled my body to the edge and stared down at the slick surface and then back at him. "I'm gonna fall."

"I promise I won't let you get hurt." He took my hands in his and pulled me out onto the ice. "Rule number one: don't lean backward or forwards over your skates or it'll fuck up your balance."

I kept my eyes focused on the ice. "Like this?"

Kendall put one hand on my chest and one on my back. "This is better. That'll keep you upright which is what we want."

He let go of me and stepped back. I balanced without him holding me and I nodded. "Yeah, upright is good. I'm not trying to break a bone or anything."

Kendall glided back and forth as if he was simply walking. "Hang out for a bit, you need to learn to feel the ice under your feet. Try taking a few steps and hold onto the wall."

I took a cautious step and clung to the wall as I dragged myself a few inches. "I'm a natural."

"More like naturally ridiculous. You have to learn to balance." He held out his arms. "See, I'm not leaning too far and my knees are bent."

Against my better judgment, I let go of the wall and straightened myself up. My smile was nervous as I tried to copy the baby steps Kendall was demonstrating. I lost my balance and flailed as I tried to stop myself from falling. Kendall was over to me in a flash and held onto my waist.

"You're okay. That was a good start but think of it as marching instead of walking." He crouched down in front of me and marched my legs for me. "And kind of make your foot go out to the side instead of straight back. Don't be afraid to fall."

When he stood back up to his full height, we were close together. He held onto my hips and his eyes lingered on my lips for just a moment too long. He cleared his throat and turned away. He blew out a long breath and rubbed his jaw.

"Stay here." He let me go and I must have looked alarmed because he tutted. "I'll be right back."

He took off across the ice in a full sprint, he was fast and moved with a certain athleticism I had never seen from him. He pushed himself over the wall and disappeared for a brief moment. I flexed my stiff, cold fingers and I looked around the rink. Multiple state championship banners hung from the rafters and I recognized the bleachers as the backdrop from the picture of the guys I had posted. Kendall came back over to me sliding what could only be described as a walker for an older person.

"What the hell is that?"

"It's a skating trainer. It helps you balance on the ice, it's cute watching you hold onto the wall but you'll have more fun if you can actually move." He motioned for me to grab a hold of it. "Use it to hold yourself up so you can practice your footwork."

I grabbed onto it and felt instantly more stable. The ice didn't seem as slippery under my feet and I no longer pictured myself falling and breaking my nose. I cautiously moved away from the wall and tried to move my feet the way he showed me. Kendall stood with his hands in his pockets and nodded.

"That's it." He skated alongside me. "If you want to slow down make your feet into a V shape and to stop do the same thing and then angle one foot in."

"I feel stupid using this." I gripped onto the walker. "I can dance, I should be able to do this."

He was amused by this as he followed along, as casual as ever. "I used one when I learned."

This made me feel better. "Did you really?"

His gentle face was replaced by a smirk. "I was four, but yeah."

"You're an ass." I chided him but refused to let go. We were in the middle of the ice. "But seriously? Four?"

He nodded. "Right here on this ice."

"Really? That's cute." I tried to picture a tiny Kendall holding onto one of these. "Were you good from the beginning?"

"It was a rough start." He admitted. "I fell on the ice and bit through my lip, I needed stitches."

I winced. "Well, that makes me feel better. I'm surprised you stuck to it. Before my parents were a disaster I tried soccer and scraped my knee. That was the end of my sporting career."

"My dad liked hockey and I liked my dad." He kept his eyes on the ice and cleared his throat. "I was back on the ice the next day. My mom was pissed."

I wasn't sure what to say, he had never mentioned his dad in so much detail. "Your dad taught you?"

"He thought it'd be a good way to make friends. I met Carlos, so it kind of worked out." His change of subject was obvious but I rolled with it. "Then I met James when I was five, and then Logan moved here in third grade."

"That's sweet. I feel like you were a handful. Four little hockeyheads running around and getting into shit."

He pushed up his sleeve and showed me a small scar in the crook of his elbow. "We tried to build a treehouse in fifth grade. I fell right out and got a twig stuck in my arm. Logan had this wagon and he and Carlos broke their arms on the same day. James and I were smart enough to jump out but it was gross. And we definitely all got detention a few times, I still feel bad, we dragged Logan into so much bullshit."

His stories made me smile but also grateful that I hadn't had any real brothers. "I never really got into trouble."

"Of course you didn't." He teased as we reached one end of the rink. "So plant one foot on the ice and then just glide your body to turn around."

My turn was awkward and I almost lost my footing. "Back the other way?"

"You're doing great, you're not overthinking it. Try letting your feet skim across the ice instead of just straight marching, that's going to help you go faster."

"Are you not coming with me?"

Kendall pretended to be offended by this. "No, I'm fine like this."

He skated backward alongside me just as easily as he did forward and I rolled my eyes. "Show off."

"What can I say?" He flashed me a cocky smile. "I'm just that good."

"If you say so."

"So, tell me about young Elle Harper. You didn't get in trouble, I bet you were like Logan. A total geek."

Logan was obviously smart but all I could think of was how drunk he had been last night. This change was funny to me and I thought back to my younger days. "Kind of. I got good grades, I was in a lot of clubs. Book club, band, choir. It's mostly so I didn't have to go home."

"The foster homes?" He seemed uneasy. "We don't have to talk about it."

"It's fine. They weren't like the movies where everyone is abusive and awful. Most of the adults tried really hard to make it feel like home. But when you're seven and just want your mom and dad, it doesn't matter how nice they are. One foster mom was a real bitch though, she thought I was a hassle. I stayed at a friend's house a lot. We talk almost every day, she's still in Phoenix. We kept in touch when I got out of the system."

"How long were you in it? You ended up living with your aunt, right? Was that better?"

The fact that he remembered was touching. "I was in foster care from seven to twelve. My aunt wasn't 'suitable' to take me for a while. Technically, she's my great aunt, she was old even back then. She had some health issues. But when I finally moved in, we didn't get along. I think she resented the fact that she was retired with a preteen with trust issues."

"What about your mom and dad?"

The mention of them made my heart hurt. "Uh, my mom ended up marrying a dentist or something. She has a new family and I guess I didn't fit into it. I remind her of my dad. And who knows where the hell he is? So I lived with my aunt, she's in a nursing home now. It was better than shitty foster homes, but I didn't really know her. She wasn't mean but it was obvious she wasn't thrilled to have me. I just knew I had to get the fuck out of Arizona. So, I kept singing and sending out demos."

"I'm glad you did. Is she musical?"

"Hell no, I get it from my dad I guess. Thank god for music, I don't think I would have been okay without something to keep my mind off my family. My demos got picked up, I got signed and Liz and Dani helped me get emancipated."

Kendall nodded as we turned back around. "That's how I feel about hockey, I guess. When my dad left, it gave me something to do."

"He left? I never wanted to bring him up."

He waved off my concern. "It's whatever. But yeah, I was eight, Katie was two. My mom sat me down and told me that my dad wasn't coming home but that he loved me." Kendall sucked in a large breathe, he was frustrated. "I guess he wasn't ready for a family and just left. His name's Andrew. Apparently, he lives in New Jersey now."

"I'm sorry."

"Don't be, he's an ass. I've seen him twice since then, Katie doesn't even know him. He showed up at my grandparent's house when he didn't know I was there. I was ten. And then he tried to visit me after the second album came out. I think he just wanted money, though." He clenched his jaw and shut his eyes for a moment. "Hockey took my mind off of it, it was me, the puck and the ice. It cleared my head."

"Well, I'm still sorry."

Kendall dug his skates into the ice. "I like to think I'm better than he is. It's part of the reason I told you I was going to be there when I thought you were pregnant. I didn't want them growing up wondering why I didn't love them enough to stick around. It fucks with you."

This confession was unexpected but was sweet. I put my hand on my shoulder. "You're definitely better than him. Was he musical?"

"I honestly have no idea where it came from. I bought my first guitar because I wanted to impress a girl in middle school."

"Of course you did." We both laughed at this. "Did it work?"

"Not even close. I was twelve and my voice kept cracking. I like to think it won you over before I fucked up."

I hummed at this and was noncommittal. "Maybe. So you wanted to play hockey before you wanted to sing?"

"100% I was already being looked at by different schools by sophomore year. I was gonna get a hockey scholarship, play in the NHL, take care of my mom and Katie, and then probably be a coach."

"I feel like being in a famous boyband was a pretty good back up plan."

His mood had brightened and he agreed with me. "For sure. I sure as hell wouldn't have met your uncoordinated ass if I played pro hockey."

"I am not uncoordinated. If you remember, you're the one who tripped over his own feet during tour rehearsal."

"That's because you were watching. I'm good on my feet if there's ice under them."

I waved him away. "Go on then, impress me."

"You better get your walker out of the way. I wouldn't want to run over you, grandma."

I gave him the finger but shuffled to the edge. "Let's see it."

He shot me an arrogant grin. "Back in a flash."

I watched him take off across the ice and reach over the wall. He pulled out a hockey stick and tossed a few pucks onto the ice. He chased after a stray one and controlled it with ease, his stick going from side to side. His legs were powerful as he hurled himself across the frozen surface. He shot the puck into the net and circled back and did the same with the others. He may have talked about it enough, but watching him actually play was different. He seemed more comfortable on the ice than onstage which was really saying something. The fact that he was on ice seemed like an afterthought to him because he glided and moved with ease and grace. He sank every puck into the net with a slap of his stick. When he was done, Kendall skated back over and came to a loud stop and produced a small flurry of ice.

"Well, you're not awful." I pretended to be unimpressed. "Needs work though."

He huffed out a laugh, his cheeks were a bit red from the exertion. "Shut the fuck up."

"Make me."

We stared at each other for a moment and he swallowed. He let out a breath and held out the stick. "You want to try?"

I snorted and gestured to my walker. "My hands are a little full at the moment."

"You don't need that anymore. You need to feel the ice under your feet without that there's nothing like it." When I looked skeptical he sighed. "I won't let you fall."

He seemed excited at the idea and I groaned. "Fine, but you'll have to face Liz if I break something."

We held hands and he carefully tugged me to the center of the ice. He let go of me and I stiffened completely, I felt like I would go crashing to the ground at any moment. Kendall crossed his arms and tutted.

"Come on, you can do it. Remember, knees bent and little marches with your feet. And to stop, drag one foot at an angle." He demonstrated both of these things with the same ease as simply walking. "I'll catch you."

"That's not how you stopped over there. You made it snow. Which way is right?"

"That's a hockey stop, you're not ready for that. You're doing a beginner stop." He shooed me away and mimicked my words from earlier. "Go on then, impress me."

Cautiously, I held out my arms and lifted a foot off the ice. The skates felt heavy but I moved my feet the way I had been with the walker. I slid a few inches across the ice and turned to Kendall. My voice was high pitched and echoed off the walls.

"Look, I'm doing it!" I pointed to my feet. "Kendall, look!"

A broad smile stretched across his face. "I see. You are."

"Take my picture, take my picture," I ordered. "Hurry, I'll slow down."

He skated in front of me, his phone in hand. He took a few pictures but must have switched to a video. "Say hi."

"I'm skating!" I was almost giddy. "I'm actually skating."

Kendall went back to where his stick was and did the same stop he did before. It startled me and I grabbed at the air, I righted myself.

"Don't do that! I'll fall."

"Sorry, Bambi." He teased and slowed down to my speed. "I'm used to that way. It's so you can turn around faster in the game."

He was pushing a puck along and I reached for my phone. "Do that thing again. You know get it into the net."

"So you were impressed?"

"You caught me." I hit record. "Now go, skate."

Kendall gave the camera another smile and showed off as he skated backward, chased the puck and hit it into the net. He raced back to me and came to another hockey stop. The suddenness of it made me nearly slip once more.

"Kendall!" I couldn't really yell because I was laughing. "Stop."

He caught me and blew air. "Sorry, babe."

"Now you're just doing that to scare me." My phone went back to my pocket after sharing the video and I pointed to the stick. "Can I try?"

"Really?" He was surprised as reached the net. "Are you sure you don't want your walker?"

"Excuse you, I'm a pro now."

He shook his head and me and groaned. "We're going about one mile per hour."

"Just give me your stick," I ordered and held out my hand. He raised an eyebrow and a smirk curled at his lip. "Your hockey stick, Kendick."

He handed it over and placed a puck in front of me. "You know how to hold it?"

"Like this?"

"Close but no." He came behind me, he positioned my hands. His fingers were warm against mine and his breath was on my neck. "Now, hit the puck with the edge of the stick. Picture it hitting the back of the net."

I stuck out my tongue and squinted. Kendall's hand rest on my back, ready to catch me. I whacked the stick against the ice, missing completely.

"You're not golfing. Just give it a little more power." He held onto my arm and showed me how high to swing. "Now try."

I let out a breath and swung again. The puck flew into the net and I let out a shriek.

"I did it!" I cheered. "Look I-"

I whirled around to look at Kendall when I lost my footing entirely. I scrambled to grab onto him but we landed on the ice with a hard thud. He came down on top of me and groaned. We both laughed and I rubbed my head. His laugh was hearty and the dimples in his cheeks appeared.

"You okay?" His question was hushed.

"I think so."

That's when I was all too aware of the fact that he was pressed against me. I was pinned between his warm body and the cold ice. He must have realized this too because he cleared his throat. He looked down to my lips and then back at me. Just like that, my mouth was bone dry and my breathing came to a stop. His eyes were bright green against the white ice. He bit at his lip and let out a trembling breath. His warm hand came up to touch my cold face and neither of us blinked, not wanting to miss a second of the way we stared at each other. Kendall's lips ghosted over mine before fully connecting. He cradled my face as he kissed me. It was gentle, shy almost. But it was right in so many ways. Just like that first kiss in the back of the music store. It was right as rain and I wondered how I had lived before it. My hands came up to get lost in his hair and I held his face close, savoring the taste of his mouth against mine.

We separated, both dizzy from kissing and our lips red. Kendall was the first to speak.

"Think that's enough for today." His voice was quiet. "Enough skating."

"Enough skating." I agreed.

He pulled me to my feet and gathered the pucks and sticks. He was careless as he tossed them back over the wall. We pulled our skates off and our shoes on. I could feel the weight of his kiss on my lips. It had been the first one since we got to Minnesota and it felt like a bubble had burst. The cold air from the arena was replaced by a gush of hot, humid air when we stepped outside. Rain fell in absolute buckets. He held my hand as we ran to the car. Fat drops soaked through our clothes and was deafening on the roof of the car. The air was muggy and stifling so we took off the thick sweatshirts we had worn in the cold ice rink. He pushed his wet hair from his face and turned to me.

"So." He drummed his fingers against the steering wheel. "Hotel?"

My lips buzzed from our kiss and there was a burn in the back of my throat. The only sounds were the rain and our heavy breathing. My own words surprised me. They were quiet but certain.

"Take me to your house."

He looked confused but when I leaned over the center console and kissed him he didn't hesitate. His arm went around my waist and my hands gripped his shirt. Our lips were as warm as the air and the kissed was as charged as the storm that came down around us. When we separated, he had a shaky smile.

"My house." He said it to himself as if he couldn't believe it. "Anything you want."

The car came to life as thunder and lightning rumbled overhead. The windshield wipers squeaked as they tried to fight the flood of water. Kendall's hand gripped my thigh as he drove a little too fast. Every light was green as if it was a good omen. The tires squealed as he turned into the driveway. The car was barely in park when he cut the engine and came around to my side. He threw open my door and offered his hand. The rain stung our skin as it fell even faster from the dark sky but I didn't care. He cupped my face and kissed me in the middle of the downpour. The rain soaked through our clothes and left goosebumps on my skin. We clambered up to the door. He kept his arms around me as he reached past me with the key. His crotch was pressed against the back of my thigh. He fumbled with the doorknob and we fell inside. We dripped water in the front entrance and he kicked the door shut behind us. Our breathing was ragged as we stared at each other. I was the one who closed the gap. I bit at his lip and he returned my kiss with fervor. He stripped off his wet shirt, it reminded me of that first kiss in the dressing room. His bare skin was hot under my fingers as I traced over his tattoos. Our kisses were rough and sloppy as I kicked off my shoes. It was straight out of a movie, the way he looped his arms under my legs and scooped me up. My arms were tight around him and my lips were at the crook of his neck as he carried me up the stairs.

He pushed me up against the wall of his bedroom and I found myself shimmying out of my jeans. Kendall gripped my hair and held me tight against him. I reached down to find his belt buckle and I unzipped his jeans with quick hands. As he stepped out of his pants I took the chance to peel the wet tee shirt that clung to my heaving chest. My heart was beating painfully with anticipation. My eyes raked over Kendall's body. From his wet, mussed hair, his hungry eyes and full, kiss-swollen lips and all the way down his torso to between his legs. I let out a breath as he swiftly unhooked my bra. His fingertips skimmed across my shoulders and up to my face. His kiss was hard against my lips and he walked us backward until my legs hit the edge of his bed.

"Is this okay?" His voice was deep and low in the back of his throat. "Sure you want this?"

My stomach was in a knot and I nodded to myself. "I want you."

This was all Kendall needed because he tugged down my last bit of clothing and pointed for me to lie back. I propped myself up on the pillow as his head ducked between my thighs. My pulse was fast and my fingers found his hair. After a few moments, I pulled him up by the shoulders and kissed him on the mouth. His hair was already disheveled and a grin spread across his face.

"Are we really gonna do this, Len?" He ground his hips against mine and kissed me over and over again. "We can stop."

But I didn't want to. He was intoxicating and I wanted him, all of him. I could feel it viscerally, deep down all the way into my bones. The way he stared at me was full of history. I knew him and he knew me in all the ways you could know another person.

"I wanna do this."

Kendall busied himself with the condom wrapper and I took a moment to catch my breath. I wanted to remember every detail, the blue walls, the old trophies, the way the rain hit the windows, and the way he smiled at me like I was the most important thing in the world. His eyes were wide and his bit his lip. It was everything I wanted. His lips were glued to my neck and he buried his face in my shoulder. His fingers locked with mine as I let out a sigh.

"Fuck, I missed you." It was a breathy groan into my ear. "Missed you, so, so, much, baby."

My face was pressed into his hair and my eyes were screwed shut. I let out small gasps and dug my nails into his skin. He smelled of cigarettes, mint and his soap. And at that moment it was the best things in the universe. His kiss prompted me to look at him. His face was already hinted with red and his smile was soft.

"You're so pretty, Eleanor. So damn beautiful." He held himself up on the frame of the bed and groaned. "Feels so good."

This did feel right. The past few days had been building to this moment. From all the intense stares, waking up next to him, and the way he showed me who he really was. It was all leading to this, so I sank into him. I held him close to me and gave him a breathless smile. His lips brushed my cheeks as he leaned into my ear.

"Fuck, Len. I'm crazy about you." His gaze was warm and his skin was flushed. "Absolutely crazy."

I pressed my lips to his and took it all in. It felt like coming home and I didn't realize just how much I had missed him. His words echoed in my brain, he was crazy about me. And maybe somewhere in between the soft squeaks of the bed frame, the drizzling of the rain on the roof and the heavy sound of our mingled breathing, I could be crazy about him too.

AN: Elle and Kendall hooked up! Do you think she's making a mistake? How cute was his ice skating surprise? The next chapter is a bit of a traveling day for the tour. I hope you stay tuned.

Slightly off-topic note: I'm super grateful for everyone who reads the chapters I post. But it's kind of disheartening to spend days writing and editing to not get a single review. Are you really so unbothered that you can't name one thing you liked? Even a "I liked this chapter because (insert your reason)" would be nice. 61 people read the last chapter, 'm not asking for 61 reviews because that's insane. But even if two of you reviewed that would be .03% of you reviewing. I think wanting less than 1% isn't asking too much lol. I don't mean to whine but it's like talking to a brick wall on my end. I'll be updating later this month so I hope to hear from you soon.

Cheers.