Fanfic: Symphonies of Blinding Light | Part I
For harlequinkradam
Title: Symphonies of Blinding Light (lyric taken from the Linkin Park song “The Catalyst”)
Word Count: 24,500-ish
Type: Angst/Romance
Rated: R
Pairing: Kris Allen/Adam Lambert
Prompt: “Prompt 81: Kris Allen is one of the hottest music stars in the world. He's also rumored to be bisexual. Adam is barely making ends meet, working at a friend's store by day, performing in dive bars and at open mics by night. As a birthday present, Adam's friend Cassidy, bids on an auction for charity. The prize: Dinner with Kris Allen. The dinner does not go well, with Kris ignoring Adam, even being downright rude at points. Word of Kris' behavior hits the tabloids, though Adam doesn't comment on it. Kris feels guilty about his behavior, as he'd received bad news prior to the dinner, and seeks Adam out for a redo. Do sparks fly the second time around?”
Thank you to: My betas anobakitay and kradambomb for the read-throughs, edits and notes. Any other mistakes are mine alone.
Disclaimer: This is not true. This did not happen.
**
Century Plaza Hotel
Los Angeles, CA
“Who the fuck signed me up for something so ridiculously asinine?” Kris asked. He paced the living room of his hotel suite, angrily waving off the two stylists and their assistants as they tried to put the finishing touches on him.
To say Kris Allen was NOT in a good mood today was putting it mildly. His pissed off and irritated mood from earlier in the week was back with a vengeance. And now, to top it off, he had to take part in a preposterous pageant he didn’t even remembering signing on for.
Charity auction. What dumbshit from his team thought this is a good idea? Whoever it was would be shot. Then fired.
Now he was being preened and prodded and squeezed and tweezed to within an inch of his life, when all he wanted to do was hit the gym with his trainer to get this weird aggression he was feeling out of his system. He was seriously ready to just punch someone, anyone right now. And if these motherfuckers didn’t stop adding more shit to his hair and pick out a goddamn tie already, they’d be on the receiving end of his bad mood.
“I’m not going through with this!” he threw his arms up in the air and started to take off yet another tie. “I shouldn’t have to be subjected to something this fucking dumb and inane because you think it’s good publicity and possibly,” he sneered, “boost my fucking image. Why can’t I just fucking donate money or my time by volunteering or offering to give my share of a single from iTunes for my own fucking charity? I shouldn’t have to be standing and being bid on like an asshole!”
Lucy just feigned a yawn and raised an eyebrow. She slowly uncrossed her legs and got up from her seat across the room. She stalked over to Kris and faced him as he turned.
With one hand, she grabbed the tie from his neck and with the other, poked a finger into his chest.
“It was one thing to punch the paparazzo in broad daylight, it was warranted. But then you had to go and pick an argument with a waiter at Le Deux.” She lifted the finger poking him to close over his lips as he was about to speak. “If it just ended there that would have been okay. You’re an artist, prone to being temperamental once in a while. No problem. I could explain all that away. But what do you next? Not only do you get into a fight at a country club, a members-only-high-tea-ladies-of-leisure-who-lunch type country club, but you get into this fight with a woman because she was upset you were hitting on her boyfriend while drunk. A woman Kris. You almost hit a woman…”
He started to protest, but again she held her hand up. “Uh-uh. Stop. I’m not done.”
“Yeah, buddy,” she continued softly, “You’re doing this absurd charity thing. Yeah, you’re going to stand up and be bid on like a piece of meat. It sucks. It’s dumb. It’ll be awkward. But you know what? You’re still going to do it. You’re not paying me or the rest of your team enough to go through this shit ever few weeks just because you can’t get a decent lay when you’re on the road. No one wants your time or your money. So you see? You need to do this. And you know what else? You’re doing this for me so that I can save face around town.”
She backed away from him, “Got it?”
Kris gulped visibly and nodded carefully. Lucy smiled, but it didn’t reach her eyes, “Good.” She tossed the tie to one of the assistants, “Go with the dark blue tie. Makes his soft brown eyes pop more.”
She smoothed down her dress, checked the straps of her heels, crossed the room and grabbed her purse and wrap. “Meet me downstairs in 20 minutes. We need to make an entrance.” The room was silent as she left.
“Damn,” one of the stylists said in awe, “Is she always that scary?”
Kris bobbed his head, “This was her being not so scary.”
“Wow. Why do you still work with her?”
Kris shrugged as they pulled the dark blue tie around his neck, “She’s a great publicist and an amazing friend.”
**
Cassidy was brimming with excitement, but was trying hard not to show it. He made a lap coolly around the cocktail reception with a drink in his hand, nonchalantly nodding and smiling at people he didn’t know. He looked at his watch again, Lucy was running late.
A pair of arms around his waist startled him, and he nearly spilled his drink.
“Hey gorgeous,” Lucy said, pushing up to kiss him on the cheek from behind. “Sorry I’m late.”
Cassidy turned and leaned down to give her a matching one on the opposite cheek. “It’s okay sweetie. Just happy to be here.”
He pushed her back to eye her up and down and whistled, “Looking hot here.”
“Pffft” she responded, making an unladylike raspberry sound with her tongue and lips. “Thank you for the dress and recommending the shoes. They’re hot and look amazing and, yeah, really comfortable actually.”
“Please,” he said hugging her, “You make it easy.”
“Yeah, yeah,” said laughed, leaning into him. “So, he’s being an asshole, as usual these days, but he’s doing this.”
“Are you sure about this? Isn’t this below his, you know, stature or something? I mean, he’s an A-list celeb doing this cheesy thing. The other celebs are like, Drake Duncan and Bianca Blade from the soaps.”
“Yes! I’m sure.” she stated emphatically. “He needs something like this to pop his ginormous ego right now. I’m sure he could get tens of thousands at another function, but you know what? I don’t care. It’ll be the fucking kick in the ass he needs. And you know what else? I think Adam and him would make an amazing couple.”
Cassidy laughed, “You know we could just try to set them up on a blind date or throw a party and have them meet each other. There are easier ways of doing this.”
Lucy pouted, “Yes, but that’s not as fun. This will make Kris squirm and uncomfortable, and these days, I’m ALL about making his life as hellish as possible as payback. Plus,” she said lightly, “It’s for charity. It’s win-win for me.”
“But there’s no guarantee I’m going to win him.”
“Oh, but you see, that’s where I come in,” she whispered conspiratorially. “I’ve got an extra ten thousand on top of what we have right now.”
“Holy shit woman!” Cassidy shouted. He looked around embarrassed. He pulled Lucy to a quiet corner, “Where’d you get that kind of money?”
Lucy laughed, “You think I’m the only one that Kris has made miserable lately? Everyone on his team donated money to the cause.”
Cassidy stood in shock, and then burst out laughing. “Oh my god, seriously?”
Lucy nodded, “Yup. He’s been that big of a jackass lately.”
“But what about Adam? I mean, he’s got a GIANT crush on Kris, and if Kris is still being an asshole…”
She shook her head vigorously, “No, no. Kris will be a sweetheart. And, Kris will fall under Adam’s spell the way the rest of us have. I’ve met that boy once, and damn, I wish he was straight. So instead, Kris gets him and I live vicariously through them. They’ll meet, they’ll fall in love, live happily ever after and all that bullshit nonsense. And I want that for both of them. And, should Kris still be in his pissy mood phase, well, he will behave on the date since it’ll be in a public setting. He’s being an ass right now, but he’s got a soft spot for these things.”
Cassidy looked nervous.
Lucy smiled, “Plus,” she said with a scrunch of her nose, “I’ve threatened to cut off his balls and stuff them down his throat. We’re good.”
He leaned over to give her a giant hug, “Remind me dear, never to piss you off.”
**
The clanking of silverware and glasses mixed with the soft murmurs of conversation and laughter. The at-capacity crowd filled the ballroom and excitement was bubbling as the waiters brought out dessert and coffee.
As the main room lights dimmed, spotlights shone on the stage in front.
“Ladies and gentlemen!” the MC boomed. “Welcome to the entertainment portion of your evening.” He paused for the applause. “I’m Jack McFarlane, your host this evening,” he bowed slightly. “I hope you’ve been enjoying your evening so far.” More applause.
“Before we get to the celebrity auction, I have some official business to get out of the way. Your attendance tonight, a record sell-out, I might add,” thunder whoops and hollers filled the room. “The Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles and I are grateful for your continued support. The tentative numbers so far from the silent auction and tonight’s donations have already hit almost $250,000 and we’re hoping to hit the half million dollar mark by the end of the evening tonight.”
The host smiled broadly as he waited for the applause to die down. He crossed the stage as the lights adjusted to highlight the runway.
“And, of course, new this year, we have something we’re trying out. Please grab the paddles and let’s get this rolling. Ladies and gentlemen, let’s start the celebrity auction!”
The host introduced the first line of celebrities, a combination of B- and C-list television and film stars. He read off the biography cards as they walked down the runway escorted by the various children from the hospital. Paddles were raised as each person walked. Streams of laughter and shouting commenced as women fought with each other jokingly about setting up a picnic lunch for their husbands with a Sports Illustrated model. Men booed as a soap opera actor winked at their wives as he came down the runway.
Halfway through the line-up, the MC announced, “Now, we’re down to our final celebrity,” he raised his hand, “I know, I know, time flies when you’re having fun, right?” He turned back to his notes, “Volunteering his time tonight, this celebrity tugs the heartstrings of many a woman…and man” he winked exaggeratingly, “with his soulful voice and tear-jerking love songs. He rules the music charts with an iron fist and keeps his Southern fried manners in check with a velvet gloved touch. He’s a mystery wrapped in an enigma swathed in bubblewrap as he’s just precious. Ladies and gentlemen, last, but not least, up for your hard-earned money-Kris Allen!”
Cassidy was suddenly nervous. He looked over at Lucy sitting calmly at the table next to him. He caught her eye and laughed when she winked at him. He had been cheering with everyone at his table, as the auction was going on. He even joked with the couple next to him. Now that it was time; however, he didn’t know if he could go through with it.
As Kris came out, visibly anxious, Cassidy felt a wave of calm. He would do this. He’d do this for Adam.
“…and of course, there’s no guarantee he’ll sing for you, but come on. Look at him,” the MC was saying. “A lunch or dinner date? Plus, it’s for the children!” The bidding was going fairly quickly at $500 increments, similar to the other celebrities. So far the highest bid had been $9,500 for an on-set lunch with the soap opera hunk.
Cassidy raised his paddle up, “$3,000!” he said loudly.
His table cheered for him. The host looked over, “$3,000 from table 5, paddle 32. Do I hear $3,500?” A woman from Lucy’s table raised her paddle. Then a man’s voice from the opposite side of the room shouted “$5000!”
The host beamed, “Wow, okay so much for going up slowly. $5000 to the gentleman with paddle number 77, table 16.”
Cassidy raised his paddle and laughed, “$7,000!” and raised his paddle up again.
“Well, well,” the host said, raising his eyebrows and smiling. “This is going to be fun.” He turned to Kris, who had a blank face and hands in the pocket of his slacks. “You’ve got some fans out in the audience tonight.”
Kris smiled blandly and gave the host a thumbs up.
Unperturbed, the host faced the audience again, “We’ve got $7,000 from paddle 32, table 5. Do I hear…”
“$9,000!”
“I guess that answers that,” the host joked. “$9,000 to the gentleman holding paddle 77. Kris Allen people. Grammy-award winning artist, Billboard’s artist of the year last year. And he’s single!”
Laughter filled the room. Kris grimaced internally, but kept his face blank as he felt Lucy staring at him from the table up front.
The host looked around, “$9,000 for dinner with Kris Allen. Going once, going…”
Cassidy stood up and raised his paddle, “$15,000!”
The giant ballroom fell silent. Cassidy froze, unable to tell if this was good or bad. As he heard the deafening applause and cheers, he slunk slowly back down into his chair. He snuck a glance at Lucy and she was beaming at him and clapping her hands. His table mates were patting him on the back and congratulating him. He didn’t even know if he won yet, the roaring in his ear preventing him from figuring out what was going on.
“Everyone! Everyone!” the host was shouting, trying to calm the room down. “Okay, now that we can all hear each other, I believe the bid was for $15,000, paddle 32, table 5. Going once,” he paused. “Going twice,” an even longer dramatic pause. Cassidy closed his eyes and crossed his fingers. “Dinner with Kris Allen for $15,000 to the gentleman with paddle 32 at table 5!”
Cassidy slumped with relief. He knew he could have gone a little higher, but the sudden stress freaked him out. He received the congratulatory words from the people around him. He looked up to the stage to gauge Kris’s reaction, but only saw his back as he was escorted off the stage. He tried to find Lucy, but she, too, had disappeared.
He stopped paying attention as the host continued with the jewelry and fashion show part of the auction. Cassidy sat there, feeling numb, did I seriously just win Kris Allen in an auction for a dinner date with Adam?
A young woman came to the table to escort Cassidy and the other auction winners to the back. He stood up as she asked him to follow her to fill out forms and other paperwork. He barely heard her mention that she’d be meeting Kris Allen.
**
Lucy cornered Kris in the dressing room. He had loosened his tie and was in the middle of his third? No, fourth vodka tonic. He didn’t count the ones he had up in his suite. He ran his hand through his hair, waiting for the lecture.
“Other than you looking like you could barely tolerate being up there, you did good,” she said, giving him an unexpected hug.
He stood dumbstruck, “Uh, yeah…”
“What?”
“Wasn’t expecting that from you tonight, after you know...”
She smiled. Kris didn’t like that smile. That smile meant she had something evil planned-and it generally involved him.
She said nothing as she took his drink away, grabbed his arm and walked them outside into the main green room waiting area with the other celebrities. Winners were slowly making their way inside, their giddiness infectious.
“The winning bidder will be coming through soon to meet you, so you be nice,” Lucy said as she continued to smile. “They spent a lot of money tonight.” She tugged him further into the room. “Look how pleasant and fun everyone else is being. Don’t make me hurt you.”
Kris shivered, “You scare me, you know that?”
Lucy perked up and faced him, “Aww, you say the sweetest things.” She reached up and mussed his hair up and unbuttoned another button on his shirt.
“Mr. Allen?”
Kris glanced over to the voice and saw a young woman coming towards him. Behind her was a tall, lean man in a dark gray suit. His dark hair showing of streaks of blond and sandy highlights, complementing the sharp angles of his face. This could be fun, he thought.
The woman stopped in front of Kris and Lucy. “Mr. Allen? This is Cassidy Haley,” she turned to present the man to Kris. “Mr. Haley? This is Kris Allen. Congratulations.” She curtsied slightly and left them.
Lucy reached out her hand, “Mr. Haley?”
“Um, Cassidy,” he replied, shaking it. They had discussed pretending not to know each other, just in case.
“Cassidy, then.” She smiled. She smacked Kris in the arm, “Kris, this is the winning bidder.”
Both men struck their hands out and shook, mumbling greetings and courtesy how-are-yous. Kris tried to catch Cassidy’s eyes, but Cassidy was looking everywhere around the room except him. Kris was becoming annoyed.
Lucy rolled her eyes, “So, let’s make arrangements for dinner shall we?” She pulled out her iPhone and scrolled through the calendar.
“Well,” Cassidy interrupted. “This is a little awkward, but the dinner isn’t for me.”
Kris’s brows scrunched. He looked to Lucy. What the hell?
Lucy pursed her lips and stared at Cassidy. He shifted on his feet uncomfortably, even knowing that it was an act.
“Then,” she said, drawing out the word, “Who is this for?”
“My friend Adam, actually,” he said, rushing the words out. “His birthday is coming up next month, and he’s always the one throwing parties for his friends, that we thought…”
“Stop,” Lucy ordered, palm up and out, effectively shutting down Cassidy’s ramblings. “You won a dinner with Kris Allen so you could gift it to your friend?”
Cassidy bit his lip, “Well, yeah.”
Lucy sighed, “Okay. So, as far as I know, most of these auction things are gifts for others, so I don’t think it’ll be a big deal.” She turned to Kris, “I’ll set up the dinner, work out the details with Cassidy here and then put it in your calendar, okay?”
Kris chuckled. He knew when he was being dismissed. He was intrigued by Cassidy, but if he was going to give his boyfriend this dinner as a birthday present? Kris wanted to meet the boyfriend. If he was as hot as Cassidy, then maybe…
“Kris!” Lucy snapped. “What am I going to do with you?”
“What?”
“Nothing,” she replied, rolling her eyes at him. “Just…never mind. I’ll meet you back up at the suite. The stylists will be taking the clothes back, and then we’ll head to the after-party.”
Kris nodded, he looked to Cassidy, “I’ll see you there?”
Cassidy smiled, “Sure.”
Lucy waited until Kris was out of hearing range, “Oh god, what am I going to do with that boy?”
“He IS cute, you know.”
“He’s also a boil on my butt right now,” she muttered. Peeking around, she grabbed Cassidy and pretended to study his paperwork. “Okay, he likes you, so that’s a start. You know what he’s thinking?”
Cassidy looked worried, “Uh, this is not good.”
“It’s perfect. He likes the look of you. Right now, he’s thinking Adam’s your boyfriend, then he’ll like the look of your boyfriend, and maybe, just maybe.”
Cassidy pulled away shocked, “Shut up!”
Lucy shrugged, “Honey, ever since the divorce, there is nothing, and I mean nothing that seems Kris won’t try right now. He’s finally figured out he likes boys, so that eliminates half my problem. But I just need him settled in a happy, relatively normal relationship so I can stop putting out fires.”
Cassidy’s giggled turned into a full-on belly laugh, “Ohmuhgaaawd. Seriously? Kris Allen and…he does…He…WOW, girl.”
“Shhhhhhhhhh!”
“Come on,” she continued. “I only have a few minutes to put this together with you, then I need to head upstairs and make sure the All-American Boy Next Door doesn’t pass out drunk or trash the room with witnesses. So, a week before Adam’s birthday, yes?”
**
“Adam, it’s no big deal!” Cassidy argued. “It’s a tax deduction for us. Plus, we all wanted to give you something amazing for your birthday. So stop being a brat!”
They were in the back office/store room of Cassidy’s shop. Bolts of fabric and cardboard boxes were piled high in strange stalagmite shapes from the floor, while papers hung precariously from makeshift tables. Despite the sheer number of items in the room, there was plenty of room for Adam to move around and yell.
Adam stopped pacing to glare at Cassidy, “Are you fucking serious? You spend 15 grand on an auction for a dinner with Kris fucking Allen, and you’re giving it to me? How am I supposed to feel about that? I mean, I love you guys and know that you love me, but holy shit, you know?”
I’m going to kill fucking Monte for letting that number slip Cassidy thought as he tried to work another angle. “You have the cutest, biggest celebrity crush on him. We all chipped in to make your birthday special this year. Go and have fun! Flirt and be charming! Then, come home and tell us ALL about it. You HAVE to do this Adam.”
Adam fell into the worn out, patched-up couch with a giant “oomph.” He curled into himself and started to shake.
Cassidy ran to him and started to rub his back, “It’s not awful. We love you Adam. You’ve been working so hard for the last few years, we thought you needed a treat…” Adam sat back up, tears streaming and the laughter he was holding in bust out and filled the back room. “What the…FUCK Adam. Why are you laughing? Holy crap on a cracker dude, have you lost your fucking mind? What’s so funny?”
“You guys are totally and completely fucking insane, you know that?”
“And you are being a bitch,” Cassidy pouted. “We get together to do this nice thing for you, and you’re laughing at us. At me? To my face.”
Adam took in a deep breath and controlled his laughter, “Oh my god, what you guys did is amazing. Like beyond words amazing, but come on. This is obviously a joke, right?”
Cassidy glared at him, “No, it’s not a fucking joke. And you WILL be going to this dinner. It’s paid for and already arranged. I have an outfit picked out for you and everything. His people have made arrangements for a car. You’ll meet Kris Allen at the restaurant. You will have a nice meal. You will converse like humans. You WILL enjoy yourself.”
He got up and stalked to one of the tables. He flipped through some folders until he found the one he was looking for. “The car will pick you up at 7:00PM. You’ll have drinks in his suite at 7:30. Reservations are at 8:00PM at Parq inside the Montage Hotel. A car will be waiting and ready for you up front starting at 10:00PM and will be there until midnight to bring you home.”
Cassidy looked to see Adam’s mouth agape in wonder. “What you thought this was some fucking elaborate joke? Well, boo fucking hoo. You’re doing this. Oh, and you need a haircut before your date next week.” He looked around for his phone, “Hey Melissa? Yeah, Adam needs a trim? Yup, tomorrow?” He motioned for Adam, who nodded absently, obviously still in shock. “Thanks darling.”
He walked over to where Adam was motionless on the couch. He tapped Adam’s jaw, “Your mouth shouldn’t look like that unless you have something in it sweets.”
Adam shook himself, “Seriously? This is … I mean, this dinner… Kris Allen? Really?”
It was Cassidy’s turn to laugh, “Yes, seriously. You will be having dinner with Kris Allen next Wednesday.”
“Holy shit balls.”
**
Adam spent the next few days still in a daze. He didn’t know how he got through the days at work, but was grateful that Monte was letting it slide. The music store was extremely busy, but everyone helped pick up the slack, even Matt.
“Duuuude, how fucking epic is Wednesday going to be?” Matt asked, slapping Adam on the shoulder in their make-shift break room.
“God, I wish everyone would stop saying that? I’m nervous enough as it is!” Adam exclaimed. “Jesus, I even messed up my lyrics last night at the open mic.” He let his head fall onto the table and groaned.
Matt laughed, “Adam, sorry to tell you this, but you always fuck up your lyrics at open mic. Don’t blame it on your dinner date.”
“I know,” he mumbled, face in the crook of his arm. “I just wanted to blame this dinner thing, so in turn I could blame all you fuckers.”
“What’d we do?” Matt demanded.
“I can’t believe you all chipped in for this and made it happen.”
“Whatever, dude. Your crush is ridiculously cute, so when opportunity arose, we took it. You love us.”
Adam lifted his head up, “Why does everyone say my crush on Kris Allen is ‘ridiculously cute’? It’s just a celebrity crush. It’s not like there’s a chance in Hell anything can or will happen. Now I just get to meet him in person for more than 15 seconds. I don’t know why you guys did this. It’s like you and Angelina Jolie. It’s a celebrity crush. No way it’s ever happening in this lifetime, right?”
“Whutchu talkin’ about Willis?” Matt postured. “That’s only because Angelina hasn’t met me yet. Once she does, I can say adios to this town and this stinkin’ job.”
“You can say adios now if you want,” Monte interrupted, slapping Matt upside the head. “Break’s over you lazy ass Get back out there. It’s stupid busy right now.”
Matt stood and gave Monte an awkward salute, “Sir, yes sir!” and left the room.
Monte flipped him off then turned the chair Matt was sitting in backwards and sat, arms crossed over the back. He rifled his fingers through Adam’s hair. Adam had placed his head back into the crook of his elbow, face to table. “You doing okay kiddo?”
“No,” came the muffled pout.
“Aww, come on, it’s not going to be that bad. You’ll have fun.” Monte leaned forward, head close to Adam’s.
“No it won’t. I’ll be a flustered, blubbering idiot. He thinks I’m going to want something from him, like to listen to my demo or something equally lame. I won’t know what fork to use. I might spill my drink on him.”
Monte sat back and laughed, “Oh my god! I forgot what a big drama queen you are sometimes.”
“Am not.”
“Yes, you are.” He pulled at Adam’s shirt, “Sit up.”
Adam breathed in deeply as he felt his upper body being yanked up. His face was muddled with red splotches from breathing in the trapped air between the table and his arm. Monte laughed louder.
“Stop laughing at me, I already feel like crap,” Adam whined.
“Then stop acting like such a baby,” Monte scolded, not trying to hold in his chuckling. “You’ll have fun. Just relax and be yourself.”
Slumping over, he eyed Monte, “I hate you all.”
**
“Are you sure he’s okay? He’s not in a mood or anything?”
“Cass!” Lucy said exasperation clearly in her voice. “He’s been in a great mood the last two weeks. It’ll be fine tonight.”
“Are you going to be there with him?”
Lucy took the phone away from her ear and rolled her eyes at it. “Oh my god. It’ll be fine. Besides, I’ve taken care of everything. Adam will be in good hands. I’ve got it covered.”
“I really, really know you do, but Adam’s been so cute and so nervous about this,” Cassidy said in a worried tone. “I mean, he’s been like a kid before Christmas. And trying on different outfits and…I-, I just don’t want him to be heartbroken, you know?”
“Oh honey,” she sighed. “No, I understand. But I can’t be there. It would be weird for a publicist to be hanging around, you know? I mean, we all know it’s a publicity thing for Kris, but to actually be there? Awkward much?”
“Yeah, I get it. It’s…I…it’ll be fine, right?”
“It’ll be fine,” Lucy said with certainty.
**
Kris was staring blankly as he was sprawled on the bed. He was finally seeing patterns form, moving like serpentine shadows across the ceiling. Another day, another hotel room. He was getting tired of it all.
His hand tingled as the phone he was holding buzzed and rang out. He realized he never put it aside after his previous call.
“Yeah,” he answered.
“Everything okay?”
“Yeah, just, uh, a little tired,” he replied. He should tell Lucy. She would know what to do.
“Are you sure?” the question had deeper meaning, Kris was sure of it. But he didn’t want to get into it.
“Yeah, I’m fine.”
“Okay, well, Adam should be there in about 20 minutes, the car is en route to the hotel and traffic is light. Can you be nice tonight?”
“Adam, 30 minutes, nice. Got it,” he said, voice dull.
An annoyed sigh, “And one more thing?”
“Sure Lucy, anything for you.”
“Cut the fucking sarcasm and listen. He’s a big fan of yours, so not only be nice, but be enthusiastic too. He’s a sweet kid.”
Kris slowly sat up and rubbed his face, “Got it. Christ almighty. Are you ever going to give me a break?”
“Once you stop being this moody asshole and get over yourself,” came the cutting reply.
“Love you too.”
Kris was about to hang up, but Lucy stopped him. “Hey Kris, sweetie?”
He smiled and braced for it, “Yes Lucy.”
“Don’t fuck it up tonight.”
Click.
Kris flopped back onto the bed and closed his eyes. Just a few more hours. His assistant made the arrangements for his flight out first thing in the morning. He just needed to smile and get through drinks and dinner.
**
Adam waited nervously as he heard footsteps come to the door. He wasn’t really sure what to expect, but Kris Allen opening it himself was definitely not it.
“Uh, hi!” he said cheerfully, extending his hand. “I’m Adam. I, um, I…you’re expecting me?”
Kris smiled, but Adam noticed that it didn’t reach his eyes. He barely clasped Adam’s hand, “Adam, hi. I’m Kris, but you already know that. Come on in.” He turned away quickly and went back inside.
The door started to close in on Adam, as Kris left him at the doorway and walked to the bar. Adam frowned, pushing the door back to ease his way inside the suite. The bartender made a face, but it was so quick Adam wasn’t sure if he imagined it.
“So, Adam,” Kris said. “What’ll you have?”
Adam approached the bar and stood at the other end. Kris grabbed his drink as soon as it was placed on the ledge.
“Uh, vodka tonic with extra lime please,” he said to the bartender. The man nodded once. He started to place the drink down, but Adam grabbed it from his hand. “Thank you,” he said sincerely. The man smiled briefly, nodding his head in acknowledgement.
Kris moved to the small dining table in the room. “Come, have a seat,” he gestured to the chair across from him.
Adam looked around. A waiter was setting up snacks in the opposite corner. The mood in the room was chilly, sharp. Definitely uncomfortable. He sat across from Kris and smiled.
“Uh,” he started. He usually was very talkative and spoke with strangers easily, but something about the mood in the room was throwing him off.
Kris smirked. An actual smirk, as if he knew how stressed-out Adam was, but didn’t try to diffuse it or lighten the mood. Adam’s smile faltered a bit.
“You’ve got a good friend,” Kris said, breaking the silence.
“Yeah, uh, friends, actually,” he replied shakily. “A group of them actually got together and planned it out. It’s, uh, they, um…a birthday present for me. It was Cassidy’s idea, but they all chipped in I guess. And since I’m a fan of yours, they thought…oh, shit. I’m rambling. Sorry.”
Adam nervously put his drink down, the sound of glass meeting wood thundering in the unnerving silence of the room.
“Don’t worry about it,” he nodded to the waiter. “I figure we can finish our drinks, have a little something, then head downstairs to the restaurant? We’ll grab dinner and continue the evening.”
Adam nodded, “Sure. Sure.”
As the waiter set down some appetizers, Kris studied Adam. He was dressed in a dark brown suit and light pink button-down shirt. He was definitely not what he had pictured. Jet black hair with hints of, was that blue, messed just-so with product. He was definitely a good looking guy. He had on a touch of make-up, not overly done, but definitely well done. Usually with bad hotel lighting, Kris would be able to tell. Too bad he wasn’t feeling it tonight. Better to get this commitment done and over with as quickly as possible. He was annoyed as it was that it took three months, but now, hopefully before midnight, he’d be free.
“I’m sorry, what were you saying?” Kris asked. He realized Adam was talking. Shit, he thought. Focus…just a couple more hours.
“Oh, yeah, um, I was just wondering if you had any plans to tour this year. I saw you two years ago at the El Rey, and it was just…wow.”
Damn, he really was a fan. “Yeah, probably,” he replied, grabbing a piece of cheese off the center plate. “The new album is coming out in March, so most likely tour again.”
Adam nodded, picking at the food he had placed on a small plate. Kris looked down. He didn’t even realize a small plate had been made for him.
“So, what do you do Adam?”
Adam blushed, “Uh, well I work in my friend’s music shop during the day. He gives guitar lessons on the wide while I help out with the retail part, and I have a couple of gigs usually on during the week at…”
The alarm on Kris’s phone buzzed and interrupted them. Time to head downstairs. He smiled and got up. “Dinner. Shall we?”
“Sure.”
**
Kris and Adam walked into the restaurant in uncomfortable silence. The hostess beamed at them as soon as they entered. The restaurant and other legitimate photographers aimed cameras, asking them to smile.
Adam stiffened as soon as Kris put him arm around his waist, smiling for the camera. Adam smiled briefly.
“Gentlemen, this way please,” the hostess said, leading them inside. “We’re honored to have you join us this evening. The chef has prepared a three-course tasting menu, and David will be your waiter tonight.”
She sat them in a discreet area of the restaurant. Next to the windows, but with enough distance away from the main dining area.
“Mr. Allen. Mr. Lambert,” she said, directing their attention to the waiter, “This is David. He’ll be assisting you tonight. Please don’t hesitate to let us know if we can do anything else for you.”
With a nod, the hostess left. Adam looked at the waiter, genuine smile forming, “David?”
“Oh my god! Adam!” David said laughing. “I’m so dumb, I didn’t even put the last name together. How are you? Oh, this is what everyone was talking about!”
Adam started to laugh, relaxing, “Yeah, it is.” He turned to Kris who was looking at the two of them, slight scowl on his face. “Uh, Kris…this is David. David’s a friend who works at a…he’s a friend. David, Kris Allen.”
The two men shook hands. David stopped, “Lord, I’m being so unprofessional. Usually my friends don’t come here, so it’s a surprise. Sorry. Mr. Allen, can I get you something to drink?”
“Yeah, uh Belvedere and tonic,” he said curtly and pulled his phone out.
David made a face, “And Adam? What can I get you?”
Adam animated his face to indicate for David to stop, “I’ll have the same, but with extra lime?”
“No problem, coming right up. I’ll be back shortly with your drinks. The appetizer tasting menu will be three small plates of shaved celery and apple salad, pepper-crusted ahi tuna and lobster risotto.”
“Thanks David,” Adam said, grateful for a friendly face.
As David left, Kris put his phone down and looked around the restaurant.
“So, you’ve never been here?” Kris asked.
“Uh, no. Heard great things about it. Have you been here before?”
“No. Lucy, that’s my publicist, she actually made the reservations, but same, heard the food is amazing.”
Adam nodded, taking a drink of water. “Sorry about David, he’s…”
“Don’t worry about it. I get that people get excited when they see people they know.”
Adam wasn’t sure what to say now. Kris seemed distracted, back to fiddling with his phone. He was about to say something when David was back at their table.
“Here you go,” he said. He put the small plates down in front of them, turning the plate just so for the complete presentation. “Enjoy,” he said and winked at Adam before disappearing.
Kris and Adam ate in uncomfortable silence. The only sounds coming from glasses raised and put back on the table, utensils being used and set against the plates. Adam welcomed whatever interruption David provided to refill their water glasses and remove their dishes. He discreetly brought another round of cocktails over, gave Kris a dirty look over his head, making Adam choke on his bread.
David appeared with two other waiters, “The main course tonight, also in the form of a tasting menu. We have pan-seared Loup de Mer, braised veal cheek and coffee crusted NY strip. For your sides, there is zucchini blossoms, sautéed spinach and garlic wasabi mashed potatoes.” He turned to thank the other waiters; Adam smiled in thanks to them as well.
“Will there be anything else or do you have any questions about your main course?”
Adam shook his head, “No, this looks great.”
They both waited for Kris to respond, “Sorry, no. Looks amazing, thanks.” Kris tapped his short glass, “Can I get another?”
David nodded, “Sure thing, Mr. Allen. Enjoy.”
“How’s everything?” Kris asked, finishing off the last of his vodka tonic.
Adam started with a surprise. He opened his mouth, but nothing came out. He cleared his throat and took a sip of water. “The food’s great. Usually, you know, people gush about it, and when you try it in person, you’re a little let down, but not this time. You?”
“Lucy made a good pick. I love trying new places and having great food.”
Adam saw David’s eyes widen at the fact that they were talking. Adam bit his lip to keep from smiling. He came to the table, “Here you go Mr. Allen,” dropping off the drink and picked up the empty glass. “Anything else right now?”
Kris and Adam shook their heads.
“Just let me know,” he said and gave Adam a thumbs up behind Kris’s back.
“You should eat before it gets cold,” Kris pointed to Adam’s plate. He then pulled his phone out and left it on the end of the table.
“Uh, yeah” Adam said confused.
**
“Boss, get someone down here STAT,” a man hiding in the bushes said, still snapping pictures through the long-zoom lens.
The restaurant’s smoky tinted windows did nothing to keep prying eyes from the main dining hall. Columns and elegantly trimmed trees and bushes kept the patrons from being overly exposed, yet open enough to make the casual tourist green with envy.
An irritated voice, “It’s a simple point-and-shoot assignment. You seriously need back-up for something like this? Why do I need to have more people down there?”
“Boss, you don’t understand,” he said, pausing to look around and started to whisper. “Kris Allen is being such a little douchebag right now you have no idea. The poor auction winner looks miserable. Even the wait staff seems to be gossiping in the kitchen right now.”
“Fuck, seriously? Lucy made it seem like he was all excited about this. Keep taking pictures and head inside. Get whatever you can, you know the drill. Expense it.”
“You got it. I got the faces, so whoever you send, tell them to find me. I’ll lead them to the right people.”
“Great job.”
“Just hurry. The usual mob is outside as set-up, but yeah…this is good.”
“Fifteen minutes, max.”
**
Again, they ate in silence. Adam glanced at Kris every few bites, but he was definitely just eating and flicking peeks at his phone. Adam sighed, Fuck it. Fuck him. I’m going to enjoy my meal and just get the fuck home. With that in his head, he ate the rest of the meal with relish. He nodded and thanked the chef for a wonderful meal and asked to meet the pastry chef, as his tongue melted and died a happy death with the affogato and chocolate cake with praline cream.
Adam smirked as Kris was obviously pained about having to make small talk with other people as well tonight. One would think after all the cocktails he had, he would be more relaxed, but instead, he was even surlier. Adam rolled his eyes. Marked this as something he would never do to a fan or just people in general.
They got up, shook hands with the service team and manager. Adam hugged David and nodded as they would be seeing each other in a few days at the bar. Kris managed to be polite until they hit the lobby.
“Thanks for coming to dinner, Adam,” Kris held his hand out.
Adam took it, but kept it short, “Thanks for the evening. Have a good night.” He left Kris standing there, looking unsure, but Adam didn’t care anymore. He pulled out his cell, 10:22PM, the longest three hours of his life. He lifted his hand to his driver. As they pulled out of the hotel, Adam didn’t look back, didn’t check his messages. Just went straight home.
**
Kris dropped his bag on the floor and toed off his shoes. He tiredly slammed the door shut by leaning back into it, surprising himself that he didn’t fall to the floor.
Exhaling, he staggered into the kitchen, dropping his jacket on his way. He made his way to the refrigerator, grabbed a can of Diet Coke and turned.
“Holy shit” and dropped the open can onto the floor. The contents spilled out over the floor and onto his foot.
“What the fuck?” he shouted. He put the can onto the counter and grabbed a handful of paper towels to wipe the floor. He removed his socks and left them by the dirtied towels.
Lucy was sitting at the kitchen table surrounded by magazines, newspapers and colorful print-outs.
“I have a key. I can’t just come by and say hello to my client? See how he’s doing?” she asked.
“No, of course you can, but Jesus fucking Christ, way to scare the crap out of me.” He walked over. “What’s all that?”
“This is why I’m here right now,” she said. “Well, it’s actually why I’ve been here all fucking weekend waiting for you to finally show up.” She pushed back and stood up. Lucy was smaller than Kris, but the way she was standing made her seem bigger, more intimidating.
“Where the fuck have you been Kris? Why was your phone off? Why is it still off?” she asked softly.
He rubbed his face, “It’s a long story, but…”
“I wanted to tell you in person,” she interrupted. She walked up to him and gave his a huge hug. She stepped back and cupped his face. “You know I love you, right?”
Kris’s look of confusion made her giggle. “I do you know.”
“Well, yeah, Lucy. What’s going…”
“I quit. You’ll have to find yourself another publicist. I think the label will help out in the meantime. I’ll always be your friend, and you know how to reach me. But,” she stopped. She motioned to the table, “I can’t do it anymore Kris. I love you and love your music, but…Yeah, I can’t and don’t want to be a part of this.”
Kris looked at the table and back at Lucy. “But I don’t understand.”
Lucy quirked her lips, “It hurts me too much to keep doing this.” She grabbed her purse. “I’ll end up hating you.”
He grabbed her arm as she walked past him, “What’s going on?”
She laughed bitterly, “What’s going on? You’re really asking me that?”
“Look, I know I’ve been MIA the last 36 hours, but there’s a reason…”
Lucy threw her hands up in the air, “There’s always a reason with you Kris. ‘I had too much to drink,’ ‘I was in a bad mood,’ oh and my personal favorite, ‘I don’t understand why I just can’t have some fun now and then.’” She shook her head. “Call me when you get your head on straight and can be that guy I know is in there somewhere again.”
“No, no…this isn’t like you,” he still had a grip on her upper arm. “Tell me what happened.”
She glared at him and his hold on her. He dropped his hand.
“I love you. I quit. Call me later. What else is there to say?”
Frustrated, Kris marched to the freezer and grabbed the half-empty bottle of vodka. His hands shook as he tried to twist the cap off. Lucy stilled his hand by laying her on top, “Stop it. It’s not even 9AM yet.”
He looked at her pleadingly, “I’ve had a rough couple of days. Tell me. Yell at me. What the hell is going on?”
Lucy let out a deep breath, “Fine. I was in the mood to yell the day before yesterday, but after not being able to reach you, I lost energy. I don’t have the energy to even be pissed off Kris.”
“And that’s scaring me.”
She kissed him on the cheek, “Call me later.” With that she walked out. He heard the door close with finality. He stared at the vodka on the counter. Twisting his lips, he secured the top back on and stuck it back into the freezer. He went to the table and …
“Aww shit.”
He fell into the chair Lucy had pulled out and started to cry.
**
“How’s he doing?” Lisa asked her husband quietly.
She eyed Adam playing with the twins on the floor. He always came over on Sunday mornings for brunch and to play with the kids.
Monte hugged her tight from behind, “He says he’s okay, but I know he’s still upset.”
“I can’t believe…”
“Shhh,” Monte stopped her rant by kissing the spot behind her ear. Lisa giggled. “Let’s think positive. He’s been getting bigger audiences at the club since those rags actually did some research and talked about out his Wednesday night gig. So now the Ruben is thinking of adding him on Fridays and Saturdays now.”
Lisa wiggled to turn and he loosened his arms. Facing him, she smiled broadly, “That’s amazing.”
Monte nodded, “Yeah.” He looked over his wife’s shoulders to see Adam with his twins crawling over him. “I think Kris Allen might have actually done him a favor by being a jackass that night. At first it was the curiosity thing, those extra people at the club, you know?” Lisa nodded. “But then they heard him sing,” he continued, “and yeah, I think people were blown away. I think he’s on the brink.”
Lisa continued to smile, “Can’t wait.”
**
Kris called Lucy. She was halfway home but agreed to turn back around. He paced the floor from front entrance to kitchen to living room, studiously avoiding the kitchen table. His breathing got heavy and choppy each time he looked over to the stack of magazines. He was thisclose to hyperventilating.
“Ohgodohgodohgod,” he mumbled. He raked his hands through his hair again. He shouldn’t have thrown out the vodka. He should have saved it, but the spur-of-the-moment action couldn’t be undone.
He jumped as he heard the door open. He ran to Lucy and clasped and squeezed her like a lifeline.
“Help me fix this!” he pleaded.
She hugged him back and tried to get free of his hold. “Kris…Kris! Come on. Stop, I can’t breathe or move.”
He peeled himself off her and dragged her into the kitchen, to the dreaded table. He barely moved anything, afraid to touch anymore than what was on the surface.
“How did this happen?”
She crossed her arms and glared, “How do you think? I told you I’d have photographers around. I told you to be on your best behavior and to be nice. What the fuck do you think happened? And you know the worst part of it? Adam wasn’t even the one who tattled.”
Kris’s breathing started to even out. This Lucy he could deal with. This Lucy would help him make things better. He leaned against the granite island in the middle of the kitchen and slid down until his ass met the cool hardwood floor.
“What do I do?” he asked miserably.
“You make it up to him.”
“How?”
Lucy rolled her eyes, “I don’t know. I told you, you’re not my client anymore.”
“But Lucy,” he whined.
She held her hand up, “Stop. First you were a whiny, irritating, emo-I’m-in-pain asshole after the divorce. Then you changed into a why-the-fuck-not asshole nailing everything in a skirt. Then you decide to let your gay out and bang every pretty boy at every gay bar in town. And you know what? I helped you through all that. People were okay with you being fucked up because you were…are…an amazing musician. But, I- I can’t deal with this Kris. I don’t want to deal with this. If you want my help as a friend, fine, but I am not putting out fires for you anymore. I can’t deal with you being on constant fuck-up mode.”
Kris banged his head against the counter wall, “Fuck me, this is bad.”
“Yeah, it kind of is.”
He watched as she grabbed a handful of the magazines and papers from the table and walked over to him. He looked up at her, her face was as cold as he had ever seen it. He watched unmoving as she dropped the pile around him. He said nothing as she grabbed her purse again and walked out. The slam of the door his answer.
His head dropped and he saw the headlines that landed on his outstretched legs…
Move Over John Mayer, There’s a New Douchebag in Town
Standoffish Kris Allen Continues to Alienate Fans
Kris Allen: Rude and Full of Himself
Kris Allen Ignores Charity Auction Winner During Dinner
From Hitmaker to Heartbreaker Kris Allen Ungracious Host
Musician Kris Allen Goes from Average Joe to Glorified Schmo
Hail to the New Chief! Kris Allen Rules the new Brat Pack!
**
Part II
Title: Symphonies of Blinding Light (lyric taken from the Linkin Park song “The Catalyst”)
Word Count: 24,500-ish
Type: Angst/Romance
Rated: R
Pairing: Kris Allen/Adam Lambert
Prompt: “Prompt 81: Kris Allen is one of the hottest music stars in the world. He's also rumored to be bisexual. Adam is barely making ends meet, working at a friend's store by day, performing in dive bars and at open mics by night. As a birthday present, Adam's friend Cassidy, bids on an auction for charity. The prize: Dinner with Kris Allen. The dinner does not go well, with Kris ignoring Adam, even being downright rude at points. Word of Kris' behavior hits the tabloids, though Adam doesn't comment on it. Kris feels guilty about his behavior, as he'd received bad news prior to the dinner, and seeks Adam out for a redo. Do sparks fly the second time around?”
Thank you to: My betas anobakitay and kradambomb for the read-throughs, edits and notes. Any other mistakes are mine alone.
Disclaimer: This is not true. This did not happen.
**
Century Plaza Hotel
Los Angeles, CA
“Who the fuck signed me up for something so ridiculously asinine?” Kris asked. He paced the living room of his hotel suite, angrily waving off the two stylists and their assistants as they tried to put the finishing touches on him.
To say Kris Allen was NOT in a good mood today was putting it mildly. His pissed off and irritated mood from earlier in the week was back with a vengeance. And now, to top it off, he had to take part in a preposterous pageant he didn’t even remembering signing on for.
Charity auction. What dumbshit from his team thought this is a good idea? Whoever it was would be shot. Then fired.
Now he was being preened and prodded and squeezed and tweezed to within an inch of his life, when all he wanted to do was hit the gym with his trainer to get this weird aggression he was feeling out of his system. He was seriously ready to just punch someone, anyone right now. And if these motherfuckers didn’t stop adding more shit to his hair and pick out a goddamn tie already, they’d be on the receiving end of his bad mood.
“I’m not going through with this!” he threw his arms up in the air and started to take off yet another tie. “I shouldn’t have to be subjected to something this fucking dumb and inane because you think it’s good publicity and possibly,” he sneered, “boost my fucking image. Why can’t I just fucking donate money or my time by volunteering or offering to give my share of a single from iTunes for my own fucking charity? I shouldn’t have to be standing and being bid on like an asshole!”
Lucy just feigned a yawn and raised an eyebrow. She slowly uncrossed her legs and got up from her seat across the room. She stalked over to Kris and faced him as he turned.
With one hand, she grabbed the tie from his neck and with the other, poked a finger into his chest.
“It was one thing to punch the paparazzo in broad daylight, it was warranted. But then you had to go and pick an argument with a waiter at Le Deux.” She lifted the finger poking him to close over his lips as he was about to speak. “If it just ended there that would have been okay. You’re an artist, prone to being temperamental once in a while. No problem. I could explain all that away. But what do you next? Not only do you get into a fight at a country club, a members-only-high-tea-ladies-of-leisure-who-lunch type country club, but you get into this fight with a woman because she was upset you were hitting on her boyfriend while drunk. A woman Kris. You almost hit a woman…”
He started to protest, but again she held her hand up. “Uh-uh. Stop. I’m not done.”
“Yeah, buddy,” she continued softly, “You’re doing this absurd charity thing. Yeah, you’re going to stand up and be bid on like a piece of meat. It sucks. It’s dumb. It’ll be awkward. But you know what? You’re still going to do it. You’re not paying me or the rest of your team enough to go through this shit ever few weeks just because you can’t get a decent lay when you’re on the road. No one wants your time or your money. So you see? You need to do this. And you know what else? You’re doing this for me so that I can save face around town.”
She backed away from him, “Got it?”
Kris gulped visibly and nodded carefully. Lucy smiled, but it didn’t reach her eyes, “Good.” She tossed the tie to one of the assistants, “Go with the dark blue tie. Makes his soft brown eyes pop more.”
She smoothed down her dress, checked the straps of her heels, crossed the room and grabbed her purse and wrap. “Meet me downstairs in 20 minutes. We need to make an entrance.” The room was silent as she left.
“Damn,” one of the stylists said in awe, “Is she always that scary?”
Kris bobbed his head, “This was her being not so scary.”
“Wow. Why do you still work with her?”
Kris shrugged as they pulled the dark blue tie around his neck, “She’s a great publicist and an amazing friend.”
**
Cassidy was brimming with excitement, but was trying hard not to show it. He made a lap coolly around the cocktail reception with a drink in his hand, nonchalantly nodding and smiling at people he didn’t know. He looked at his watch again, Lucy was running late.
A pair of arms around his waist startled him, and he nearly spilled his drink.
“Hey gorgeous,” Lucy said, pushing up to kiss him on the cheek from behind. “Sorry I’m late.”
Cassidy turned and leaned down to give her a matching one on the opposite cheek. “It’s okay sweetie. Just happy to be here.”
He pushed her back to eye her up and down and whistled, “Looking hot here.”
“Pffft” she responded, making an unladylike raspberry sound with her tongue and lips. “Thank you for the dress and recommending the shoes. They’re hot and look amazing and, yeah, really comfortable actually.”
“Please,” he said hugging her, “You make it easy.”
“Yeah, yeah,” said laughed, leaning into him. “So, he’s being an asshole, as usual these days, but he’s doing this.”
“Are you sure about this? Isn’t this below his, you know, stature or something? I mean, he’s an A-list celeb doing this cheesy thing. The other celebs are like, Drake Duncan and Bianca Blade from the soaps.”
“Yes! I’m sure.” she stated emphatically. “He needs something like this to pop his ginormous ego right now. I’m sure he could get tens of thousands at another function, but you know what? I don’t care. It’ll be the fucking kick in the ass he needs. And you know what else? I think Adam and him would make an amazing couple.”
Cassidy laughed, “You know we could just try to set them up on a blind date or throw a party and have them meet each other. There are easier ways of doing this.”
Lucy pouted, “Yes, but that’s not as fun. This will make Kris squirm and uncomfortable, and these days, I’m ALL about making his life as hellish as possible as payback. Plus,” she said lightly, “It’s for charity. It’s win-win for me.”
“But there’s no guarantee I’m going to win him.”
“Oh, but you see, that’s where I come in,” she whispered conspiratorially. “I’ve got an extra ten thousand on top of what we have right now.”
“Holy shit woman!” Cassidy shouted. He looked around embarrassed. He pulled Lucy to a quiet corner, “Where’d you get that kind of money?”
Lucy laughed, “You think I’m the only one that Kris has made miserable lately? Everyone on his team donated money to the cause.”
Cassidy stood in shock, and then burst out laughing. “Oh my god, seriously?”
Lucy nodded, “Yup. He’s been that big of a jackass lately.”
“But what about Adam? I mean, he’s got a GIANT crush on Kris, and if Kris is still being an asshole…”
She shook her head vigorously, “No, no. Kris will be a sweetheart. And, Kris will fall under Adam’s spell the way the rest of us have. I’ve met that boy once, and damn, I wish he was straight. So instead, Kris gets him and I live vicariously through them. They’ll meet, they’ll fall in love, live happily ever after and all that bullshit nonsense. And I want that for both of them. And, should Kris still be in his pissy mood phase, well, he will behave on the date since it’ll be in a public setting. He’s being an ass right now, but he’s got a soft spot for these things.”
Cassidy looked nervous.
Lucy smiled, “Plus,” she said with a scrunch of her nose, “I’ve threatened to cut off his balls and stuff them down his throat. We’re good.”
He leaned over to give her a giant hug, “Remind me dear, never to piss you off.”
**
The clanking of silverware and glasses mixed with the soft murmurs of conversation and laughter. The at-capacity crowd filled the ballroom and excitement was bubbling as the waiters brought out dessert and coffee.
As the main room lights dimmed, spotlights shone on the stage in front.
“Ladies and gentlemen!” the MC boomed. “Welcome to the entertainment portion of your evening.” He paused for the applause. “I’m Jack McFarlane, your host this evening,” he bowed slightly. “I hope you’ve been enjoying your evening so far.” More applause.
“Before we get to the celebrity auction, I have some official business to get out of the way. Your attendance tonight, a record sell-out, I might add,” thunder whoops and hollers filled the room. “The Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles and I are grateful for your continued support. The tentative numbers so far from the silent auction and tonight’s donations have already hit almost $250,000 and we’re hoping to hit the half million dollar mark by the end of the evening tonight.”
The host smiled broadly as he waited for the applause to die down. He crossed the stage as the lights adjusted to highlight the runway.
“And, of course, new this year, we have something we’re trying out. Please grab the paddles and let’s get this rolling. Ladies and gentlemen, let’s start the celebrity auction!”
The host introduced the first line of celebrities, a combination of B- and C-list television and film stars. He read off the biography cards as they walked down the runway escorted by the various children from the hospital. Paddles were raised as each person walked. Streams of laughter and shouting commenced as women fought with each other jokingly about setting up a picnic lunch for their husbands with a Sports Illustrated model. Men booed as a soap opera actor winked at their wives as he came down the runway.
Halfway through the line-up, the MC announced, “Now, we’re down to our final celebrity,” he raised his hand, “I know, I know, time flies when you’re having fun, right?” He turned back to his notes, “Volunteering his time tonight, this celebrity tugs the heartstrings of many a woman…and man” he winked exaggeratingly, “with his soulful voice and tear-jerking love songs. He rules the music charts with an iron fist and keeps his Southern fried manners in check with a velvet gloved touch. He’s a mystery wrapped in an enigma swathed in bubblewrap as he’s just precious. Ladies and gentlemen, last, but not least, up for your hard-earned money-Kris Allen!”
Cassidy was suddenly nervous. He looked over at Lucy sitting calmly at the table next to him. He caught her eye and laughed when she winked at him. He had been cheering with everyone at his table, as the auction was going on. He even joked with the couple next to him. Now that it was time; however, he didn’t know if he could go through with it.
As Kris came out, visibly anxious, Cassidy felt a wave of calm. He would do this. He’d do this for Adam.
“…and of course, there’s no guarantee he’ll sing for you, but come on. Look at him,” the MC was saying. “A lunch or dinner date? Plus, it’s for the children!” The bidding was going fairly quickly at $500 increments, similar to the other celebrities. So far the highest bid had been $9,500 for an on-set lunch with the soap opera hunk.
Cassidy raised his paddle up, “$3,000!” he said loudly.
His table cheered for him. The host looked over, “$3,000 from table 5, paddle 32. Do I hear $3,500?” A woman from Lucy’s table raised her paddle. Then a man’s voice from the opposite side of the room shouted “$5000!”
The host beamed, “Wow, okay so much for going up slowly. $5000 to the gentleman with paddle number 77, table 16.”
Cassidy raised his paddle and laughed, “$7,000!” and raised his paddle up again.
“Well, well,” the host said, raising his eyebrows and smiling. “This is going to be fun.” He turned to Kris, who had a blank face and hands in the pocket of his slacks. “You’ve got some fans out in the audience tonight.”
Kris smiled blandly and gave the host a thumbs up.
Unperturbed, the host faced the audience again, “We’ve got $7,000 from paddle 32, table 5. Do I hear…”
“$9,000!”
“I guess that answers that,” the host joked. “$9,000 to the gentleman holding paddle 77. Kris Allen people. Grammy-award winning artist, Billboard’s artist of the year last year. And he’s single!”
Laughter filled the room. Kris grimaced internally, but kept his face blank as he felt Lucy staring at him from the table up front.
The host looked around, “$9,000 for dinner with Kris Allen. Going once, going…”
Cassidy stood up and raised his paddle, “$15,000!”
The giant ballroom fell silent. Cassidy froze, unable to tell if this was good or bad. As he heard the deafening applause and cheers, he slunk slowly back down into his chair. He snuck a glance at Lucy and she was beaming at him and clapping her hands. His table mates were patting him on the back and congratulating him. He didn’t even know if he won yet, the roaring in his ear preventing him from figuring out what was going on.
“Everyone! Everyone!” the host was shouting, trying to calm the room down. “Okay, now that we can all hear each other, I believe the bid was for $15,000, paddle 32, table 5. Going once,” he paused. “Going twice,” an even longer dramatic pause. Cassidy closed his eyes and crossed his fingers. “Dinner with Kris Allen for $15,000 to the gentleman with paddle 32 at table 5!”
Cassidy slumped with relief. He knew he could have gone a little higher, but the sudden stress freaked him out. He received the congratulatory words from the people around him. He looked up to the stage to gauge Kris’s reaction, but only saw his back as he was escorted off the stage. He tried to find Lucy, but she, too, had disappeared.
He stopped paying attention as the host continued with the jewelry and fashion show part of the auction. Cassidy sat there, feeling numb, did I seriously just win Kris Allen in an auction for a dinner date with Adam?
A young woman came to the table to escort Cassidy and the other auction winners to the back. He stood up as she asked him to follow her to fill out forms and other paperwork. He barely heard her mention that she’d be meeting Kris Allen.
**
Lucy cornered Kris in the dressing room. He had loosened his tie and was in the middle of his third? No, fourth vodka tonic. He didn’t count the ones he had up in his suite. He ran his hand through his hair, waiting for the lecture.
“Other than you looking like you could barely tolerate being up there, you did good,” she said, giving him an unexpected hug.
He stood dumbstruck, “Uh, yeah…”
“What?”
“Wasn’t expecting that from you tonight, after you know...”
She smiled. Kris didn’t like that smile. That smile meant she had something evil planned-and it generally involved him.
She said nothing as she took his drink away, grabbed his arm and walked them outside into the main green room waiting area with the other celebrities. Winners were slowly making their way inside, their giddiness infectious.
“The winning bidder will be coming through soon to meet you, so you be nice,” Lucy said as she continued to smile. “They spent a lot of money tonight.” She tugged him further into the room. “Look how pleasant and fun everyone else is being. Don’t make me hurt you.”
Kris shivered, “You scare me, you know that?”
Lucy perked up and faced him, “Aww, you say the sweetest things.” She reached up and mussed his hair up and unbuttoned another button on his shirt.
“Mr. Allen?”
Kris glanced over to the voice and saw a young woman coming towards him. Behind her was a tall, lean man in a dark gray suit. His dark hair showing of streaks of blond and sandy highlights, complementing the sharp angles of his face. This could be fun, he thought.
The woman stopped in front of Kris and Lucy. “Mr. Allen? This is Cassidy Haley,” she turned to present the man to Kris. “Mr. Haley? This is Kris Allen. Congratulations.” She curtsied slightly and left them.
Lucy reached out her hand, “Mr. Haley?”
“Um, Cassidy,” he replied, shaking it. They had discussed pretending not to know each other, just in case.
“Cassidy, then.” She smiled. She smacked Kris in the arm, “Kris, this is the winning bidder.”
Both men struck their hands out and shook, mumbling greetings and courtesy how-are-yous. Kris tried to catch Cassidy’s eyes, but Cassidy was looking everywhere around the room except him. Kris was becoming annoyed.
Lucy rolled her eyes, “So, let’s make arrangements for dinner shall we?” She pulled out her iPhone and scrolled through the calendar.
“Well,” Cassidy interrupted. “This is a little awkward, but the dinner isn’t for me.”
Kris’s brows scrunched. He looked to Lucy. What the hell?
Lucy pursed her lips and stared at Cassidy. He shifted on his feet uncomfortably, even knowing that it was an act.
“Then,” she said, drawing out the word, “Who is this for?”
“My friend Adam, actually,” he said, rushing the words out. “His birthday is coming up next month, and he’s always the one throwing parties for his friends, that we thought…”
“Stop,” Lucy ordered, palm up and out, effectively shutting down Cassidy’s ramblings. “You won a dinner with Kris Allen so you could gift it to your friend?”
Cassidy bit his lip, “Well, yeah.”
Lucy sighed, “Okay. So, as far as I know, most of these auction things are gifts for others, so I don’t think it’ll be a big deal.” She turned to Kris, “I’ll set up the dinner, work out the details with Cassidy here and then put it in your calendar, okay?”
Kris chuckled. He knew when he was being dismissed. He was intrigued by Cassidy, but if he was going to give his boyfriend this dinner as a birthday present? Kris wanted to meet the boyfriend. If he was as hot as Cassidy, then maybe…
“Kris!” Lucy snapped. “What am I going to do with you?”
“What?”
“Nothing,” she replied, rolling her eyes at him. “Just…never mind. I’ll meet you back up at the suite. The stylists will be taking the clothes back, and then we’ll head to the after-party.”
Kris nodded, he looked to Cassidy, “I’ll see you there?”
Cassidy smiled, “Sure.”
Lucy waited until Kris was out of hearing range, “Oh god, what am I going to do with that boy?”
“He IS cute, you know.”
“He’s also a boil on my butt right now,” she muttered. Peeking around, she grabbed Cassidy and pretended to study his paperwork. “Okay, he likes you, so that’s a start. You know what he’s thinking?”
Cassidy looked worried, “Uh, this is not good.”
“It’s perfect. He likes the look of you. Right now, he’s thinking Adam’s your boyfriend, then he’ll like the look of your boyfriend, and maybe, just maybe.”
Cassidy pulled away shocked, “Shut up!”
Lucy shrugged, “Honey, ever since the divorce, there is nothing, and I mean nothing that seems Kris won’t try right now. He’s finally figured out he likes boys, so that eliminates half my problem. But I just need him settled in a happy, relatively normal relationship so I can stop putting out fires.”
Cassidy’s giggled turned into a full-on belly laugh, “Ohmuhgaaawd. Seriously? Kris Allen and…he does…He…WOW, girl.”
“Shhhhhhhhhh!”
“Come on,” she continued. “I only have a few minutes to put this together with you, then I need to head upstairs and make sure the All-American Boy Next Door doesn’t pass out drunk or trash the room with witnesses. So, a week before Adam’s birthday, yes?”
**
“Adam, it’s no big deal!” Cassidy argued. “It’s a tax deduction for us. Plus, we all wanted to give you something amazing for your birthday. So stop being a brat!”
They were in the back office/store room of Cassidy’s shop. Bolts of fabric and cardboard boxes were piled high in strange stalagmite shapes from the floor, while papers hung precariously from makeshift tables. Despite the sheer number of items in the room, there was plenty of room for Adam to move around and yell.
Adam stopped pacing to glare at Cassidy, “Are you fucking serious? You spend 15 grand on an auction for a dinner with Kris fucking Allen, and you’re giving it to me? How am I supposed to feel about that? I mean, I love you guys and know that you love me, but holy shit, you know?”
I’m going to kill fucking Monte for letting that number slip Cassidy thought as he tried to work another angle. “You have the cutest, biggest celebrity crush on him. We all chipped in to make your birthday special this year. Go and have fun! Flirt and be charming! Then, come home and tell us ALL about it. You HAVE to do this Adam.”
Adam fell into the worn out, patched-up couch with a giant “oomph.” He curled into himself and started to shake.
Cassidy ran to him and started to rub his back, “It’s not awful. We love you Adam. You’ve been working so hard for the last few years, we thought you needed a treat…” Adam sat back up, tears streaming and the laughter he was holding in bust out and filled the back room. “What the…FUCK Adam. Why are you laughing? Holy crap on a cracker dude, have you lost your fucking mind? What’s so funny?”
“You guys are totally and completely fucking insane, you know that?”
“And you are being a bitch,” Cassidy pouted. “We get together to do this nice thing for you, and you’re laughing at us. At me? To my face.”
Adam took in a deep breath and controlled his laughter, “Oh my god, what you guys did is amazing. Like beyond words amazing, but come on. This is obviously a joke, right?”
Cassidy glared at him, “No, it’s not a fucking joke. And you WILL be going to this dinner. It’s paid for and already arranged. I have an outfit picked out for you and everything. His people have made arrangements for a car. You’ll meet Kris Allen at the restaurant. You will have a nice meal. You will converse like humans. You WILL enjoy yourself.”
He got up and stalked to one of the tables. He flipped through some folders until he found the one he was looking for. “The car will pick you up at 7:00PM. You’ll have drinks in his suite at 7:30. Reservations are at 8:00PM at Parq inside the Montage Hotel. A car will be waiting and ready for you up front starting at 10:00PM and will be there until midnight to bring you home.”
Cassidy looked to see Adam’s mouth agape in wonder. “What you thought this was some fucking elaborate joke? Well, boo fucking hoo. You’re doing this. Oh, and you need a haircut before your date next week.” He looked around for his phone, “Hey Melissa? Yeah, Adam needs a trim? Yup, tomorrow?” He motioned for Adam, who nodded absently, obviously still in shock. “Thanks darling.”
He walked over to where Adam was motionless on the couch. He tapped Adam’s jaw, “Your mouth shouldn’t look like that unless you have something in it sweets.”
Adam shook himself, “Seriously? This is … I mean, this dinner… Kris Allen? Really?”
It was Cassidy’s turn to laugh, “Yes, seriously. You will be having dinner with Kris Allen next Wednesday.”
“Holy shit balls.”
**
Adam spent the next few days still in a daze. He didn’t know how he got through the days at work, but was grateful that Monte was letting it slide. The music store was extremely busy, but everyone helped pick up the slack, even Matt.
“Duuuude, how fucking epic is Wednesday going to be?” Matt asked, slapping Adam on the shoulder in their make-shift break room.
“God, I wish everyone would stop saying that? I’m nervous enough as it is!” Adam exclaimed. “Jesus, I even messed up my lyrics last night at the open mic.” He let his head fall onto the table and groaned.
Matt laughed, “Adam, sorry to tell you this, but you always fuck up your lyrics at open mic. Don’t blame it on your dinner date.”
“I know,” he mumbled, face in the crook of his arm. “I just wanted to blame this dinner thing, so in turn I could blame all you fuckers.”
“What’d we do?” Matt demanded.
“I can’t believe you all chipped in for this and made it happen.”
“Whatever, dude. Your crush is ridiculously cute, so when opportunity arose, we took it. You love us.”
Adam lifted his head up, “Why does everyone say my crush on Kris Allen is ‘ridiculously cute’? It’s just a celebrity crush. It’s not like there’s a chance in Hell anything can or will happen. Now I just get to meet him in person for more than 15 seconds. I don’t know why you guys did this. It’s like you and Angelina Jolie. It’s a celebrity crush. No way it’s ever happening in this lifetime, right?”
“Whutchu talkin’ about Willis?” Matt postured. “That’s only because Angelina hasn’t met me yet. Once she does, I can say adios to this town and this stinkin’ job.”
“You can say adios now if you want,” Monte interrupted, slapping Matt upside the head. “Break’s over you lazy ass Get back out there. It’s stupid busy right now.”
Matt stood and gave Monte an awkward salute, “Sir, yes sir!” and left the room.
Monte flipped him off then turned the chair Matt was sitting in backwards and sat, arms crossed over the back. He rifled his fingers through Adam’s hair. Adam had placed his head back into the crook of his elbow, face to table. “You doing okay kiddo?”
“No,” came the muffled pout.
“Aww, come on, it’s not going to be that bad. You’ll have fun.” Monte leaned forward, head close to Adam’s.
“No it won’t. I’ll be a flustered, blubbering idiot. He thinks I’m going to want something from him, like to listen to my demo or something equally lame. I won’t know what fork to use. I might spill my drink on him.”
Monte sat back and laughed, “Oh my god! I forgot what a big drama queen you are sometimes.”
“Am not.”
“Yes, you are.” He pulled at Adam’s shirt, “Sit up.”
Adam breathed in deeply as he felt his upper body being yanked up. His face was muddled with red splotches from breathing in the trapped air between the table and his arm. Monte laughed louder.
“Stop laughing at me, I already feel like crap,” Adam whined.
“Then stop acting like such a baby,” Monte scolded, not trying to hold in his chuckling. “You’ll have fun. Just relax and be yourself.”
Slumping over, he eyed Monte, “I hate you all.”
**
“Are you sure he’s okay? He’s not in a mood or anything?”
“Cass!” Lucy said exasperation clearly in her voice. “He’s been in a great mood the last two weeks. It’ll be fine tonight.”
“Are you going to be there with him?”
Lucy took the phone away from her ear and rolled her eyes at it. “Oh my god. It’ll be fine. Besides, I’ve taken care of everything. Adam will be in good hands. I’ve got it covered.”
“I really, really know you do, but Adam’s been so cute and so nervous about this,” Cassidy said in a worried tone. “I mean, he’s been like a kid before Christmas. And trying on different outfits and…I-, I just don’t want him to be heartbroken, you know?”
“Oh honey,” she sighed. “No, I understand. But I can’t be there. It would be weird for a publicist to be hanging around, you know? I mean, we all know it’s a publicity thing for Kris, but to actually be there? Awkward much?”
“Yeah, I get it. It’s…I…it’ll be fine, right?”
“It’ll be fine,” Lucy said with certainty.
**
Kris was staring blankly as he was sprawled on the bed. He was finally seeing patterns form, moving like serpentine shadows across the ceiling. Another day, another hotel room. He was getting tired of it all.
His hand tingled as the phone he was holding buzzed and rang out. He realized he never put it aside after his previous call.
“Yeah,” he answered.
“Everything okay?”
“Yeah, just, uh, a little tired,” he replied. He should tell Lucy. She would know what to do.
“Are you sure?” the question had deeper meaning, Kris was sure of it. But he didn’t want to get into it.
“Yeah, I’m fine.”
“Okay, well, Adam should be there in about 20 minutes, the car is en route to the hotel and traffic is light. Can you be nice tonight?”
“Adam, 30 minutes, nice. Got it,” he said, voice dull.
An annoyed sigh, “And one more thing?”
“Sure Lucy, anything for you.”
“Cut the fucking sarcasm and listen. He’s a big fan of yours, so not only be nice, but be enthusiastic too. He’s a sweet kid.”
Kris slowly sat up and rubbed his face, “Got it. Christ almighty. Are you ever going to give me a break?”
“Once you stop being this moody asshole and get over yourself,” came the cutting reply.
“Love you too.”
Kris was about to hang up, but Lucy stopped him. “Hey Kris, sweetie?”
He smiled and braced for it, “Yes Lucy.”
“Don’t fuck it up tonight.”
Click.
Kris flopped back onto the bed and closed his eyes. Just a few more hours. His assistant made the arrangements for his flight out first thing in the morning. He just needed to smile and get through drinks and dinner.
**
Adam waited nervously as he heard footsteps come to the door. He wasn’t really sure what to expect, but Kris Allen opening it himself was definitely not it.
“Uh, hi!” he said cheerfully, extending his hand. “I’m Adam. I, um, I…you’re expecting me?”
Kris smiled, but Adam noticed that it didn’t reach his eyes. He barely clasped Adam’s hand, “Adam, hi. I’m Kris, but you already know that. Come on in.” He turned away quickly and went back inside.
The door started to close in on Adam, as Kris left him at the doorway and walked to the bar. Adam frowned, pushing the door back to ease his way inside the suite. The bartender made a face, but it was so quick Adam wasn’t sure if he imagined it.
“So, Adam,” Kris said. “What’ll you have?”
Adam approached the bar and stood at the other end. Kris grabbed his drink as soon as it was placed on the ledge.
“Uh, vodka tonic with extra lime please,” he said to the bartender. The man nodded once. He started to place the drink down, but Adam grabbed it from his hand. “Thank you,” he said sincerely. The man smiled briefly, nodding his head in acknowledgement.
Kris moved to the small dining table in the room. “Come, have a seat,” he gestured to the chair across from him.
Adam looked around. A waiter was setting up snacks in the opposite corner. The mood in the room was chilly, sharp. Definitely uncomfortable. He sat across from Kris and smiled.
“Uh,” he started. He usually was very talkative and spoke with strangers easily, but something about the mood in the room was throwing him off.
Kris smirked. An actual smirk, as if he knew how stressed-out Adam was, but didn’t try to diffuse it or lighten the mood. Adam’s smile faltered a bit.
“You’ve got a good friend,” Kris said, breaking the silence.
“Yeah, uh, friends, actually,” he replied shakily. “A group of them actually got together and planned it out. It’s, uh, they, um…a birthday present for me. It was Cassidy’s idea, but they all chipped in I guess. And since I’m a fan of yours, they thought…oh, shit. I’m rambling. Sorry.”
Adam nervously put his drink down, the sound of glass meeting wood thundering in the unnerving silence of the room.
“Don’t worry about it,” he nodded to the waiter. “I figure we can finish our drinks, have a little something, then head downstairs to the restaurant? We’ll grab dinner and continue the evening.”
Adam nodded, “Sure. Sure.”
As the waiter set down some appetizers, Kris studied Adam. He was dressed in a dark brown suit and light pink button-down shirt. He was definitely not what he had pictured. Jet black hair with hints of, was that blue, messed just-so with product. He was definitely a good looking guy. He had on a touch of make-up, not overly done, but definitely well done. Usually with bad hotel lighting, Kris would be able to tell. Too bad he wasn’t feeling it tonight. Better to get this commitment done and over with as quickly as possible. He was annoyed as it was that it took three months, but now, hopefully before midnight, he’d be free.
“I’m sorry, what were you saying?” Kris asked. He realized Adam was talking. Shit, he thought. Focus…just a couple more hours.
“Oh, yeah, um, I was just wondering if you had any plans to tour this year. I saw you two years ago at the El Rey, and it was just…wow.”
Damn, he really was a fan. “Yeah, probably,” he replied, grabbing a piece of cheese off the center plate. “The new album is coming out in March, so most likely tour again.”
Adam nodded, picking at the food he had placed on a small plate. Kris looked down. He didn’t even realize a small plate had been made for him.
“So, what do you do Adam?”
Adam blushed, “Uh, well I work in my friend’s music shop during the day. He gives guitar lessons on the wide while I help out with the retail part, and I have a couple of gigs usually on during the week at…”
The alarm on Kris’s phone buzzed and interrupted them. Time to head downstairs. He smiled and got up. “Dinner. Shall we?”
“Sure.”
**
Kris and Adam walked into the restaurant in uncomfortable silence. The hostess beamed at them as soon as they entered. The restaurant and other legitimate photographers aimed cameras, asking them to smile.
Adam stiffened as soon as Kris put him arm around his waist, smiling for the camera. Adam smiled briefly.
“Gentlemen, this way please,” the hostess said, leading them inside. “We’re honored to have you join us this evening. The chef has prepared a three-course tasting menu, and David will be your waiter tonight.”
She sat them in a discreet area of the restaurant. Next to the windows, but with enough distance away from the main dining area.
“Mr. Allen. Mr. Lambert,” she said, directing their attention to the waiter, “This is David. He’ll be assisting you tonight. Please don’t hesitate to let us know if we can do anything else for you.”
With a nod, the hostess left. Adam looked at the waiter, genuine smile forming, “David?”
“Oh my god! Adam!” David said laughing. “I’m so dumb, I didn’t even put the last name together. How are you? Oh, this is what everyone was talking about!”
Adam started to laugh, relaxing, “Yeah, it is.” He turned to Kris who was looking at the two of them, slight scowl on his face. “Uh, Kris…this is David. David’s a friend who works at a…he’s a friend. David, Kris Allen.”
The two men shook hands. David stopped, “Lord, I’m being so unprofessional. Usually my friends don’t come here, so it’s a surprise. Sorry. Mr. Allen, can I get you something to drink?”
“Yeah, uh Belvedere and tonic,” he said curtly and pulled his phone out.
David made a face, “And Adam? What can I get you?”
Adam animated his face to indicate for David to stop, “I’ll have the same, but with extra lime?”
“No problem, coming right up. I’ll be back shortly with your drinks. The appetizer tasting menu will be three small plates of shaved celery and apple salad, pepper-crusted ahi tuna and lobster risotto.”
“Thanks David,” Adam said, grateful for a friendly face.
As David left, Kris put his phone down and looked around the restaurant.
“So, you’ve never been here?” Kris asked.
“Uh, no. Heard great things about it. Have you been here before?”
“No. Lucy, that’s my publicist, she actually made the reservations, but same, heard the food is amazing.”
Adam nodded, taking a drink of water. “Sorry about David, he’s…”
“Don’t worry about it. I get that people get excited when they see people they know.”
Adam wasn’t sure what to say now. Kris seemed distracted, back to fiddling with his phone. He was about to say something when David was back at their table.
“Here you go,” he said. He put the small plates down in front of them, turning the plate just so for the complete presentation. “Enjoy,” he said and winked at Adam before disappearing.
Kris and Adam ate in uncomfortable silence. The only sounds coming from glasses raised and put back on the table, utensils being used and set against the plates. Adam welcomed whatever interruption David provided to refill their water glasses and remove their dishes. He discreetly brought another round of cocktails over, gave Kris a dirty look over his head, making Adam choke on his bread.
David appeared with two other waiters, “The main course tonight, also in the form of a tasting menu. We have pan-seared Loup de Mer, braised veal cheek and coffee crusted NY strip. For your sides, there is zucchini blossoms, sautéed spinach and garlic wasabi mashed potatoes.” He turned to thank the other waiters; Adam smiled in thanks to them as well.
“Will there be anything else or do you have any questions about your main course?”
Adam shook his head, “No, this looks great.”
They both waited for Kris to respond, “Sorry, no. Looks amazing, thanks.” Kris tapped his short glass, “Can I get another?”
David nodded, “Sure thing, Mr. Allen. Enjoy.”
“How’s everything?” Kris asked, finishing off the last of his vodka tonic.
Adam started with a surprise. He opened his mouth, but nothing came out. He cleared his throat and took a sip of water. “The food’s great. Usually, you know, people gush about it, and when you try it in person, you’re a little let down, but not this time. You?”
“Lucy made a good pick. I love trying new places and having great food.”
Adam saw David’s eyes widen at the fact that they were talking. Adam bit his lip to keep from smiling. He came to the table, “Here you go Mr. Allen,” dropping off the drink and picked up the empty glass. “Anything else right now?”
Kris and Adam shook their heads.
“Just let me know,” he said and gave Adam a thumbs up behind Kris’s back.
“You should eat before it gets cold,” Kris pointed to Adam’s plate. He then pulled his phone out and left it on the end of the table.
“Uh, yeah” Adam said confused.
**
“Boss, get someone down here STAT,” a man hiding in the bushes said, still snapping pictures through the long-zoom lens.
The restaurant’s smoky tinted windows did nothing to keep prying eyes from the main dining hall. Columns and elegantly trimmed trees and bushes kept the patrons from being overly exposed, yet open enough to make the casual tourist green with envy.
An irritated voice, “It’s a simple point-and-shoot assignment. You seriously need back-up for something like this? Why do I need to have more people down there?”
“Boss, you don’t understand,” he said, pausing to look around and started to whisper. “Kris Allen is being such a little douchebag right now you have no idea. The poor auction winner looks miserable. Even the wait staff seems to be gossiping in the kitchen right now.”
“Fuck, seriously? Lucy made it seem like he was all excited about this. Keep taking pictures and head inside. Get whatever you can, you know the drill. Expense it.”
“You got it. I got the faces, so whoever you send, tell them to find me. I’ll lead them to the right people.”
“Great job.”
“Just hurry. The usual mob is outside as set-up, but yeah…this is good.”
“Fifteen minutes, max.”
**
Again, they ate in silence. Adam glanced at Kris every few bites, but he was definitely just eating and flicking peeks at his phone. Adam sighed, Fuck it. Fuck him. I’m going to enjoy my meal and just get the fuck home. With that in his head, he ate the rest of the meal with relish. He nodded and thanked the chef for a wonderful meal and asked to meet the pastry chef, as his tongue melted and died a happy death with the affogato and chocolate cake with praline cream.
Adam smirked as Kris was obviously pained about having to make small talk with other people as well tonight. One would think after all the cocktails he had, he would be more relaxed, but instead, he was even surlier. Adam rolled his eyes. Marked this as something he would never do to a fan or just people in general.
They got up, shook hands with the service team and manager. Adam hugged David and nodded as they would be seeing each other in a few days at the bar. Kris managed to be polite until they hit the lobby.
“Thanks for coming to dinner, Adam,” Kris held his hand out.
Adam took it, but kept it short, “Thanks for the evening. Have a good night.” He left Kris standing there, looking unsure, but Adam didn’t care anymore. He pulled out his cell, 10:22PM, the longest three hours of his life. He lifted his hand to his driver. As they pulled out of the hotel, Adam didn’t look back, didn’t check his messages. Just went straight home.
**
Kris dropped his bag on the floor and toed off his shoes. He tiredly slammed the door shut by leaning back into it, surprising himself that he didn’t fall to the floor.
Exhaling, he staggered into the kitchen, dropping his jacket on his way. He made his way to the refrigerator, grabbed a can of Diet Coke and turned.
“Holy shit” and dropped the open can onto the floor. The contents spilled out over the floor and onto his foot.
“What the fuck?” he shouted. He put the can onto the counter and grabbed a handful of paper towels to wipe the floor. He removed his socks and left them by the dirtied towels.
Lucy was sitting at the kitchen table surrounded by magazines, newspapers and colorful print-outs.
“I have a key. I can’t just come by and say hello to my client? See how he’s doing?” she asked.
“No, of course you can, but Jesus fucking Christ, way to scare the crap out of me.” He walked over. “What’s all that?”
“This is why I’m here right now,” she said. “Well, it’s actually why I’ve been here all fucking weekend waiting for you to finally show up.” She pushed back and stood up. Lucy was smaller than Kris, but the way she was standing made her seem bigger, more intimidating.
“Where the fuck have you been Kris? Why was your phone off? Why is it still off?” she asked softly.
He rubbed his face, “It’s a long story, but…”
“I wanted to tell you in person,” she interrupted. She walked up to him and gave his a huge hug. She stepped back and cupped his face. “You know I love you, right?”
Kris’s look of confusion made her giggle. “I do you know.”
“Well, yeah, Lucy. What’s going…”
“I quit. You’ll have to find yourself another publicist. I think the label will help out in the meantime. I’ll always be your friend, and you know how to reach me. But,” she stopped. She motioned to the table, “I can’t do it anymore Kris. I love you and love your music, but…Yeah, I can’t and don’t want to be a part of this.”
Kris looked at the table and back at Lucy. “But I don’t understand.”
Lucy quirked her lips, “It hurts me too much to keep doing this.” She grabbed her purse. “I’ll end up hating you.”
He grabbed her arm as she walked past him, “What’s going on?”
She laughed bitterly, “What’s going on? You’re really asking me that?”
“Look, I know I’ve been MIA the last 36 hours, but there’s a reason…”
Lucy threw her hands up in the air, “There’s always a reason with you Kris. ‘I had too much to drink,’ ‘I was in a bad mood,’ oh and my personal favorite, ‘I don’t understand why I just can’t have some fun now and then.’” She shook her head. “Call me when you get your head on straight and can be that guy I know is in there somewhere again.”
“No, no…this isn’t like you,” he still had a grip on her upper arm. “Tell me what happened.”
She glared at him and his hold on her. He dropped his hand.
“I love you. I quit. Call me later. What else is there to say?”
Frustrated, Kris marched to the freezer and grabbed the half-empty bottle of vodka. His hands shook as he tried to twist the cap off. Lucy stilled his hand by laying her on top, “Stop it. It’s not even 9AM yet.”
He looked at her pleadingly, “I’ve had a rough couple of days. Tell me. Yell at me. What the hell is going on?”
Lucy let out a deep breath, “Fine. I was in the mood to yell the day before yesterday, but after not being able to reach you, I lost energy. I don’t have the energy to even be pissed off Kris.”
“And that’s scaring me.”
She kissed him on the cheek, “Call me later.” With that she walked out. He heard the door close with finality. He stared at the vodka on the counter. Twisting his lips, he secured the top back on and stuck it back into the freezer. He went to the table and …
“Aww shit.”
He fell into the chair Lucy had pulled out and started to cry.
**
“How’s he doing?” Lisa asked her husband quietly.
She eyed Adam playing with the twins on the floor. He always came over on Sunday mornings for brunch and to play with the kids.
Monte hugged her tight from behind, “He says he’s okay, but I know he’s still upset.”
“I can’t believe…”
“Shhh,” Monte stopped her rant by kissing the spot behind her ear. Lisa giggled. “Let’s think positive. He’s been getting bigger audiences at the club since those rags actually did some research and talked about out his Wednesday night gig. So now the Ruben is thinking of adding him on Fridays and Saturdays now.”
Lisa wiggled to turn and he loosened his arms. Facing him, she smiled broadly, “That’s amazing.”
Monte nodded, “Yeah.” He looked over his wife’s shoulders to see Adam with his twins crawling over him. “I think Kris Allen might have actually done him a favor by being a jackass that night. At first it was the curiosity thing, those extra people at the club, you know?” Lisa nodded. “But then they heard him sing,” he continued, “and yeah, I think people were blown away. I think he’s on the brink.”
Lisa continued to smile, “Can’t wait.”
**
Kris called Lucy. She was halfway home but agreed to turn back around. He paced the floor from front entrance to kitchen to living room, studiously avoiding the kitchen table. His breathing got heavy and choppy each time he looked over to the stack of magazines. He was thisclose to hyperventilating.
“Ohgodohgodohgod,” he mumbled. He raked his hands through his hair again. He shouldn’t have thrown out the vodka. He should have saved it, but the spur-of-the-moment action couldn’t be undone.
He jumped as he heard the door open. He ran to Lucy and clasped and squeezed her like a lifeline.
“Help me fix this!” he pleaded.
She hugged him back and tried to get free of his hold. “Kris…Kris! Come on. Stop, I can’t breathe or move.”
He peeled himself off her and dragged her into the kitchen, to the dreaded table. He barely moved anything, afraid to touch anymore than what was on the surface.
“How did this happen?”
She crossed her arms and glared, “How do you think? I told you I’d have photographers around. I told you to be on your best behavior and to be nice. What the fuck do you think happened? And you know the worst part of it? Adam wasn’t even the one who tattled.”
Kris’s breathing started to even out. This Lucy he could deal with. This Lucy would help him make things better. He leaned against the granite island in the middle of the kitchen and slid down until his ass met the cool hardwood floor.
“What do I do?” he asked miserably.
“You make it up to him.”
“How?”
Lucy rolled her eyes, “I don’t know. I told you, you’re not my client anymore.”
“But Lucy,” he whined.
She held her hand up, “Stop. First you were a whiny, irritating, emo-I’m-in-pain asshole after the divorce. Then you changed into a why-the-fuck-not asshole nailing everything in a skirt. Then you decide to let your gay out and bang every pretty boy at every gay bar in town. And you know what? I helped you through all that. People were okay with you being fucked up because you were…are…an amazing musician. But, I- I can’t deal with this Kris. I don’t want to deal with this. If you want my help as a friend, fine, but I am not putting out fires for you anymore. I can’t deal with you being on constant fuck-up mode.”
Kris banged his head against the counter wall, “Fuck me, this is bad.”
“Yeah, it kind of is.”
He watched as she grabbed a handful of the magazines and papers from the table and walked over to him. He looked up at her, her face was as cold as he had ever seen it. He watched unmoving as she dropped the pile around him. He said nothing as she grabbed her purse again and walked out. The slam of the door his answer.
His head dropped and he saw the headlines that landed on his outstretched legs…
Move Over John Mayer, There’s a New Douchebag in Town
Standoffish Kris Allen Continues to Alienate Fans
Kris Allen: Rude and Full of Himself
Kris Allen Ignores Charity Auction Winner During Dinner
From Hitmaker to Heartbreaker Kris Allen Ungracious Host
Musician Kris Allen Goes from Average Joe to Glorified Schmo
Hail to the New Chief! Kris Allen Rules the new Brat Pack!
**
Part II