Fic: I'll Be Waiting | Part 7 of 10
Title: I’ll Be Waiting
Rating: NC-17
Links to other parts: Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 | Part 6
**
As Kris moved carefully between the ongoing construction, overseeing the transformation of the Sculpture Plaza and Arco Court, he thought back to why he was disappointed that Adam wasn’t at the party and the fact that no one even brought his name up. It should have been a great evening, but the distinct lack of anything Adam rubbed him the wrong way, which in turn, annoyed him for being annoyed.
Shaking his head, he focused back on the activities around him. He tried not to think about how it had been nearly a year since he had met Adam.
Robert, his boss, and everyone at the office were beyond ecstatic with how the gala was coming together. The various spaces inside MOCA were taking on an ethereal look, modern and futuristic. Using the name of the film as the theme of the fundraiser, the modern art pieces and sculptures mixed in brilliantly with what the decorators were putting together. String lights and strands of ivy hung intertwined along the rails and ceilings, banners hung loosely off wires and broad shiny gold and blue ribbons accented the entryways.
When the press release hit the wires that an extended, exclusive trailer of Not Today, Not Tomorrow would be part of the evening for all attendees and that Black Powder was a primary sponsor, the Foundation’s annual event not only sold out, but sold out weeks ahead of date for the first time in eight years. His father had confirmed the attendance of Anoop and Nury for their VIP table, which the fundraising committee and PR team used to generate more press in the last month than they had received all year. The three platinum VIP tables were sold in days, with the gold and silver tables following quickly.
The blue and gold carpet and giant backdrop banner were being rolled out and set up, the install teams taking their time to smooth out wrinkles and bumps. Kris noted the placement of the lights and plants so that the production supervisor could make the appropriate changes before the media would be corralled off tomorrow night. After dropping off his list of modifications, Kris waved good-bye to his team and headed out.
He was excited, yet dreading the event at the same time. He was wound up to see his vision come to fruition and prove his worth to his co-workers, especially since the news of his background came to light in the most inopportune way months ago. With this project under his belt, he’d be able to hold his head up high.
Walking out into the mid-day sun, Kris reached into his back pocket for his phone as it buzzed. Without checking the screen, he answered, “Yeah?”
“Kris, hi. It’s Joyce. Sorry to bother you, but this guy Zach keeps calling and says he needs to talk to you. The temps are freaking out, so they transferred him to me,” Joyce apologized. “Didn’t want to give your cell number out, so can I just patch him through to you right now?”
Kris blew out a breath, “Yeah, that’s fine. Please apologize to everyone in the office for this, and I’m sorry you got stuck with it.”
Joyce laughed, “Not a problem. Figured I’m here in the office, I should do something useful instead of, you know, actually trying to make sure the last-minute event stuff is taken care of.”
Shaking his head, Kris chuckled, “Thanks so much. I’ll be in the office in about half an hour to help you out.”
“No worries, see you in a bit. And, here you go.”
“Hello?”
“Kris?”
“Yeah,” Kris replied.
“Hey, it’s Zach.”
“What’s up?”
“Damn, getting through to you is like trying to get into a nun’s panties or something.”
“I’m busy, Zach. What is it you needed?”
“Oh, that’s right!” Zach enthused. “Your fundraiser is tomorrow night.”
“Uh,” Kris hedged. “Yeah. How do you know about it?”
“Dude, you know the non-profit world is small and incestuous. It’s the talk of the town, good job there, buddy.”
“Um, thanks.”
“So, listen, my boss and I have a table tomorrow night,” Zach said. “And…”
“What?” Kris interrupted. He stopped in his tracks at the entrance of the parking garage. He pulled the phone away from his ear and looked at it like it was spouting tentacles.
“…Robin’s like that, “ Zach was saying. “She always buys a few seats or a table for pretty much all the various non-profit fundraisers in town. Good to support each other, you know?”
“That’s…that’s amazing. Thank you.”
“Oh, don’t thank me, she’s amazing that way. So, I wanted to check and see if there was anything I could do? My communications team is amazing, so any last-minute help we can give you, let me know. I was trying to make the offer sooner, but getting a hold of you has been a pain, and I know you’ve been busy.”
Kris walked into the shaded entrance of the doorway and leaned against the corner, “Thanks, but Joyce and her team seems to have it all under control. I’ll…I’ll bring it up to her when I get to the office, though.”
“Cool. Sounds like it’s going to be exciting tomorrow night.”
“Yeah. I just hope it goes smoothly.”
“I’m glad you finally used your connections to get ahead and make a name for yourself. The Point Foundation certainly needs it.”
The fondness that was seeping into Kris’s brain at Zach’s unselfishness quickly disappeared at the statement. He scowled into the phone, “I didn’t use my connections and it’s not about getting ahead.”
Zach laughed, “Come on Kris, you know I didn’t mean it that way.”
“Yeah? How’d you mean it then?” Kris asked back coldly. “It was a strategic business decision, and the production team approached us.”
“Hey,” Zach said carefully. “I’m sorry, man. I know you’re touchy about this, but that’s not how I meant it.”
“Whatever.”
“Dude, seriously. I’m just glad that it’s working out for you, that’s all.”
Kris took a deep breath, “Fine.”
“Like I said, offering my resources, that’s all, okay?”
“Yeah, okay.”
“Give me a call; otherwise I’ll see you tomorrow night.”
Kris pressed the button to end the call and banged his head against the doorjamb. “Dammit.”
**
Adam paced the foyer waiting for his car while Brad adjusted his tie in the mirror. Tommy and Stella walked out of the kitchen with bottles of juice in the hands.
“You’re gonna need to get the floors re-done if you keep at it,” Tommy said, handing over the cranberry juice. “Because Connie’s gonna have a hissy fit about the black scuffs.”
Taking a small sip, Adam stopped and smiled at his friends. “The car’s late, that’s all. I hate being late for these things, and it’s in fucking downtown.”
“You and Nury are expected to be late, it’s what all the fabulous divas and drama queens do,” Brad retorted. “Besides, think of the frenzy you’ll create just walking in…if they’re still around. Anoop and Nury are the only celebrities expected to be there, the rest are the bourgeois LA elite that no one knows and no one gives a fuck about.”
“That’s not true,” Tommy replied. “We all love their money.”
Brad pursed his lips, “True, true. Their wallets are beautiful things.”
The house intercom went off, signaling the arrival of the car. Adam smiled and looked at them, “You guys ready?”
He opened the door and ushered them out. Patting his pocket for the invitations, he set the alarm, took a deep breath and headed to the car. It was gonna be a long night, he just hoped they had top-shelf alcohol to power him through it.
“I looked up this non-profit and the deets of the event,” Brad started. “How is it Anoop got roped into it?”
“It was Neil and Jeremy’s idea,” Adam replied as he sipped on his juice. It was warm now, but it kept him occupied.
“Huh,” Brad murmured.
Adam looked over at him and sighed, “Just say it.”
Brad shrugged, “I was curious is all, sweets. You have your own tie-ins with different charities that you do so much with, thought that the filmmakers would want to work with those instead. Or even Nury’s.”
Tommy chimed in, “He’s just a puppet that does as the studio tells him.”
Adam rolled his eyes and looked out of the blackened windows at the cars stopped alongside theirs. The 10 eastbound was always jammed up, especially the closer you got to downtown.
“Do you know anything about The Point Foundation?” Brad asked.
“Yeah, I looked it up after I got the invitation,” Adam answered. “They do good things, so I’m glad I’m going and love that Black Powder got a table.”
“Is that the only reason?”
“Why else? It’s great tie-in with the message of the movie, we’re getting a shit-ton of press and the movie isn’t even out yet. Entertainment Weekly gave us a double-page spread in the “Summer Movies” issue just last week.”
“What’s Brad getting at?” Stella asked out loud. “I mean, it seems like tonight’s a great opportunity to get a different demographic interested in the movie, this small non-profit gets a giant boost in terms of awareness. Am I missing something?”
Adam leaned his head back against the seat and closed his eyes. He knew it was wishful thinking and completely pointless in hoping that Brad wouldn’t say anything. Pinching the bridge of this nose, he opened his mouth to explain, but Tommy stepped in first.
“What Brad is not-so-subtlety trying to get out of Adam is if he knows that the love of his life, one Mr. Kris Allen, is a director at The Point Foundation,” Tommy explained. He patted her knee softly and continued, “And if Adam is nervous or looking forward to tonight, especially since their infamous date. The unhappy ending in which, the non-relationship, which could have been a relationship, imploded when Adam then decided to avoid Kris’s calls for a few weeks, and then when our Prince Charming here thinks he’s ready to face the music, Kris changed his number and moved out of his apartment.”
Stella stared at Adam, eyes wide and full of sadness, “Oh, honey…”
“We’re pretty sure Adam could have pushed to get a hold of him, but it was obvious our little puppy Kris didn’t want to be contacted,” Brad finished. “So, here we are.”
“What does that mean for tonight?” Stella asked looking at the three men.
“It means,” Brad said as the limousine pulled out of traffic onto the downtown streets. “That we see if the sparks are still there, which I’m pretty sure they are, and if puppy’s bark is worse than his bite or after seeing Adam all done up fine and looking hot, he’ll roll over and want his tummy rubbed.”
**
“Joyce, you look gorgeous,” Kris said with a smile.
She blushed, “Aww, thanks Kris.” She looked him over, “You clean up nice yourself.” She winked at him, “A nice change of pace from the plaid, skinny jeans and nasty sneakers you wear all the time that make you look like a community college reject.”
Kris bumped her shoulder softly, “Shush. Not all of us have your fashion sense with killer stilettos.” He handed her the bundle of wires of the headset, “You ready?”
“Not really, but hey, it’s exciting, right?” Carefully wrapping the wires around her neck and clipping on the base to her notepad, she glanced over at the media lined up against the portable long line of metal rails, “Never thought I’d actually have to turn away press to one of our events.”
“You and your team did an amazing job. Saw the final list this morning.”
“You, Mr. Director, are the one that made it happen,” she smiled. “Have I told you lately that I’m glad you’re on board with us?”
This time Kris blushed, “Just trying to make-up for the nightmare I created when I first started.”
Joyce burst out with laughter, “That was one of the reasons I got out of personal and entertainment publicity, but I’m glad I had the background to know how to take care of it.” She leaned over and kissed him on the cheek, “I don’t think I’ll mind handling publicity for our own celebrity on the side. Now, get out of here, and enjoy your big night.”
“When you get the chance, tell everyone I’m buying a round next week as thanks,” Kris said.
“Will do, now shoo.”
Kris gave her a brief one-armed hug and headed inside. He stopped at the sudden frenzy and bursts of flashes going off on the carpet. Turning, he smiled as he saw his father, mother and Anoop get out of a black SUV. They walked down the carpet, his mother standing in the background as microphones were shoved into the faces of his father and Anoop, questions being shouted out, voices clamoring over each other to be heard. Without thinking, Kris stepped out to escort his mother inside, and the flare of flashes went off again. He ducked his head and hurried her inside.
“Sorry, mama,” Kris said sheepishly.
“What are you apologizing for, dear?”
“Didn’t mean to create a scene like that out there.”
Kim giggled, “Oh honey, that was far from a scene. You were being the lovely gentleman I raised you to be.” She kissed his cheek. “I believe it’s time you get me a cocktail while we wait for your father.” Grabbing his arm, “Shall we?”
“Of course,” Kris acquiesced. He led them to the corner bar, giant grin on his face. “And, you look lovely, mama.”
“Why, thank you,” Kim smiled. “Though, I’m sure your father might not like the bill when it comes in.”
“I think he can afford it,” he replied dryly and laughed when she slapped his hand. “Come on before the line gets too long.”
**
Adam made the limousine circle around the block twice to make sure the media frenzy had died down. Ignoring the complaints of Brad and Tommy, he smirked knowingly when he saw the whirl of flashes go off when Nury stepped out her car with a giant smile and wave.
“Cripes, Adam,” Tommy whined. “What the big deal? You get your picture taken all the time. I need a drink, can we pull over already?” He scooted forward to look out the window, “And from what I can tell, none of your crazy fans are out there. It’s just the usual press line. Damn,” he whistled, “That’s as contained as I’ve ever seen.” He sat back in the seat, “How do you not feel like a caged animal doing that on a regular basis?”
“Just one more time,” Adam said. “Need to make sure Nury gets her moment in the spotlight.” He purposely ignored the last part of Tommy’s statement.
“Here, sweets,” Brad said as they finally pulled up the cordoned off driveway. He fixed Adam’s tie and brushed a little powder on his nose and forehead. “There,” he said. “Camera-ready, if I do say so myself; remember to smile pretty for everyone, okay?”
The driver came around to open the door for them, causing a small flurry of action from the press line, the collective turning around to see who the late arrival was. Shifting their positions from the small space, photographers and journalists shouted out their demands to Adam, forgetting about the attendees left confused on the carpet.
“Adam! Over here!”
“Adam! Adam! Look over here!”
“Can you tell us why you’re here?”
“How involved are you in The Point Foundation?”
“Who are you here with? Is that your new boyfriend?”
Variations of the same demands, commands and questions were lobbed out to Adam as he smiled, waved and walked down the carpet. He nodded to Brad, Tommy and Stella for them to head inside quickly, that he’d take care of the press. After making sure they got through the doors securely, he stopped and posed for photos.
A woman with a notepad and headset came out to greet him, “Mr. Lambert, hi, I’m Joyce, senior communications director for The Point Foundation. I didn’t know you were coming tonight, otherwise I would have made sure someone was here to escort you inside and bypass the press line or at least help you navigate through the mass.”
“Please, call me Adam,” he said taking her hand. “And, I wasn’t sure I would be able to make it myself until the last minute, so it’s not a problem. I don’t mind working the carpet at all, and,” he looked at the line of cameras, then winked at her, “this isn’t a mass at all. I’ve dealt with worse on my own.”
Joyce smiled and laughed, “Of course, I didn’t mean…”
He held his hand up, “If you have some folks you’d like me to talk to specifically for the Foundation, I’d be more than happy to speak with them.”
“Oh!” Joyce said lighting up. “It would…wow. Of course. I’ll make the introductions.” She led him down the line.
Adam smiled and said all the right things to the two female reporters, one whose beat was non-profits and small business for the Los Angeles Times and the other for a national magazine. He wouldn’t be able to remember her name, what she covered or the name of the publication she wrote for if a gun was put to his head. All he knew was that they just about swooned when Joyce brought him up and they started to talk. If it wasn’t so sweet and adorable, he would have laughed. It had been a while since he spoke with journalists who weren’t part of the entertainment world and were genuinely flummoxed to talk to him.
After they were finished, Joyce accompanied him to the entryway and had another event person usher him inside. He was pretty sure Joyce wanted to say something, but was too professional to bring it up. She pointed to the media folks that were starting to clear up and head out, final notes and information had to be given out and excused herself.
Soft music from a string quartet greeted him, the cocktail reception in full effect. Men in tuxedos stood around with cocktails in one hand and cigars in the other; women were comparing dresses, jewelry and purses. It was really no different than any other Hollywood party, except these people had more power and money and controlled half the city of Los Angeles. A small smile plastered onto his face, Adam looked around to find his friends, and maybe, possibly see if he would catch site of a certain someone he wasn’t sure he wanted to see. He spotted Tommy’s black and blond hair near the bar and headed over.
“That didn’t take too long, sweets,” Brad said handing him a glass. “Extra limes.”
Adam gave it a funny look and sniffed at it, “Um, thanks. And, yeah it was fairly painless.”
“It’s Belvedere and soda, so shut up and drink it,” Brad ordered. He reached up and flicked a gnat from his hair. “And, no, we haven’t seen the puppy yet.”
Adam lifted a brow and put his drink down, “I don’t believe I asked.”
“It was implied from your look,” Brad said with an evil smile. He tsked and patted Adam’s hand, “What would you like us to do if we do see the puppy? Drag him away and hold him until he comes to his senses? Stalk him and report in with everything he does? Drive away anyone he’s talking to?”
“Whoa, what? No!” Adam looked over at Tommy for help.
Stella was stifling a laugh, turning her body away from the three of them. She coughed delicately and faced them. “Okay, someone point him out to me. I’ll chat him up and see where everything stands, yeah?”
“Honey, there’s no need…”
“Ooh, right over there!” Brad pointed through the crowd. “He’s the cute little puppy talking to the scary Botox woman and Nury.”
“Shhhh! Not so loud,” Adam whispered.
Brad turned to Adam, “Did you just shush me?”
“You so got shushed,” Tommy laughed.
“I don’t need a scene,” Adam said, trying to placate Brad.
Stella grabbed a champagne flute from a passing waiter, “You boys keep fighting, while I go make my way over to that cutie.” She winked at Adam, “He’s adorable. You’ve got great taste.” Then she leaned over to kiss Tommy on the cheek, “Obviously.” Waving her fingers, she stepped into the crowd and eased to way to the other end of the courtyard.
“I’m going to kill you all,” Adam scowled. “Slowly and painfully.”
**
Kris was trying to figure out a way to back out of the conversation between Nury and Mrs. Starkling, but there was no way to do it without appearing completely rude. His headset proved that everyone else remained busy, yet not once was he paged, no matter how much he was praying for the interruption.
“Hello.”
Kris looked at the petite woman in a red and black lace cocktail dress who had approached him. Her short black hair was highlighted in maroons and purples, sparkling in the lights, making him touch his own unconsciously.
“Uh, hi,” Kris answered. “Can I help you?” he asked with a smile.
“I’m sorry to butt in like this,” she started to say.
“Oh, please,” Kris assured her. “Don’t worry about it.” It didn’t matter who she was, but right now, he could have kissed her. “It’s not a problem. Just, um, give me a minute?” Seeing her nod, he excused himself from the two women chatting about their potential holiday vacations. He shook his head, it was only June.
“So, what can I help you with?” he asked her as he moved away from his previous companions.
“You’re Kris, right?” she asked. He nodded, but eyed her curiously. “I’m Stella,” she said. “I, uh, okay, wow, this is a little weirder than I thought it would be.” He made a confused face as she seemed to steel herself. “So, uh, I’m here with some friends-great event, by the way, this is gorgeous…”
Kris smiled, “I have a great team.”
“It’s amazing,”
Kris nodded, “It is. Everyone worked hard on it. So, your friend?”
“Oh, right. My friends know you, and they’re a little gun-shy about coming up to you.”
“Okay,” Kris said slowly and chuckled. “I didn’t think I was that unapproachable.” He lifted his hand to scruff the back of his head, “Did they want to ask me something? Make a request? Meet some of our board members or,” he turned around, “Ms. Lavender or Mr. Desai?”
“You’re not!” Stella exclaimed. “Oh, it’s not that. You’re actually really adorable!”
Kris felt the blush creep up his neck into his face.
Stella looked around, worry marring her face, “Shit, sorry.” She moved her hands back and forth, unsure of what to do at his distressed and blushing face. “Um, wow,” she said. “Doing this sounded so much easier in my head earlier.”
“Doing what?”
“So,” Stella said clearing her throat. “Can, we uh, take a walk? It might be easier for me.”
“Sure,” he replied. He offered his arm and led her into the gallery.
“My friend,” she started to say. “Well, my boyfriend’s friend. He likes you.”
“Um.”
“Are you dating anyone?” she asked suddenly.
Kris stopped in front of a painting and paused before answering. “You seem like a nice person, but I’m not sure…I mean, I don’t know you or your friends.”
“Shit,” Stella mumbled. She pulled her hand from his arm and twisted around to face him. “Okay,” she said stopping him. “Here’s the deal.” After taking in a breath, “This guy who likes you, he’s a sweetheart. He’s kind of hung up on you, actually.”
Kris had a bad feeling about this, so bad, in fact, that he wanted to escape. An hour long conversation between Nury and Mrs. Starkling would be preferable at this point. He was saved from replying with the announcement of dinner service.
He smiled politely and took Stella’s hand, “Shall we? I’ll walk you to your table.” They started to walk down the corridor, “Do you know you’re table number?”
As she rifled through her clutch, he held his breath. Please don’t be table one, please don’t be table…
She pulled out the invitation, “Table one,” she announced with a grin.
Kris swallowed the lump in his throat, and froze the smile into place, “Let’s go.”
He could only hope that he would be able to escort her to the table and make his escape without running into the person he didn’t want to see. It was going to be a longer night than originally anticipated.
**
“Adam, sweetie!” Nury screamed. “I didn’t know you were coming tonight.”
“Hello, darling,” Adam replied and kissed her cheek. “You look lovely.”
Nury preened and patted the chair next to her, “Come, sit.”
Adam glanced around the table, “No Hugh tonight?”
She waved her hand, “Oh, last-minute re-shoots, so he had to go back up to Vancouver last night.” She pouted, “I’m here alone.” She widened her eyes when Brad sat next to him, “Oh, are you two…”
“No, he and my friends wanted to come see the trailer, and Neil was good enough to offer the extra tickets. I guess they were for Hugh and Jackie, huh?” He introduced Nury to Brad, Tommy and Stella as they settled in their seats.
Neil came around to shake everyone’s hands and thanked them for joining him. The group chatted amiably, though Kim and Neil seemed a little leery of Tommy at first, until they realized Tommy and Stella were together. Adam didn’t feel like he needed to explain, so he didn’t.
Adam looked up every time there was a commotion on the stage, hoping to catch sight of Kris. As much as he thought he was being subtle, Brad pretty much called him out on his head turning and body shifting, trying to see over centerpieces and in between moving bodies, not paying attention to the awards and speeches being made. Not once did Kris make an appearance at the podium or even near it. No luck with any sightings at all. Kris couldn’t have left early. Right?
As dessert was being placed in front of them, coffee and tea being poured, Anoop took the stage, which surprised Adam. Why didn’t he know Anoop would be speaking? He thought Neil or Jeremy would be the ones to introduce the film, as they were the executive producers. Pushing back the small plate of chocolate, he prepared himself for the screening that would take place.
“We started principle shooting on this amazing film a year ago,” Anoop was saying. It startled Adam when he realized how much time had passed and how quickly it did.
“…It was an emotional journey for all of us,” Anoop continued. “And I hope that our voyage from behind the scenes to what you see on the screen gives you a glimpse of the pain, hope and joy we want everyone to feel. I want to thank The Point Foundation and Black Powder Productions for allowing us this opportunity to share this with you.”
A few minutes into the trailer, Nury tugged his arm and motioned for him to follow her. Seeing that everyone was glued to the giant projection screen, he backed away from the table with minimal floor scraping, and got a slightly bemused look from Brad. After a few gestures, which he hoped Brad understood, Adam made his way out of the room.
“Come on, darling, we need to hurry,” she said cryptically.
“Where are we going? What are we doing?” Adam whispered. There really was no reason he couldn’t speak normally, but it looked like they were doing something covert and a softer voice seemed more appropriate.
“Something I should have done a while ago, but didn’t really have the chance,” Nury answered vaguely.
They walked down a hallway and stopped at the entrance into the permanent collection gallery which stood empty of people, only watched by a couple security guards slowly strolling around the room. Adam gazed around to see if there was anything that would have Nury leaving the main room for, but saw nothing but sculptures and paintings. Then, his steps stuttered as he saw him leaning over slightly to study a Rauschenberg piece.
Adam’s breath hitched as he watched Kris walk around the sculpture, unaware of his audience. As Kris bent down to scrutinize the sculpture more closely, Adam continued to stare at the man he hadn’t stopped thinking about from the moment they met.
“Go,” Nury said into his ear. Giving him a quick hug, she then shoved him into the room and quickly disappeared into the hallway.
Kris peeked around the artwork, finally noticing he wasn’t alone. Adam saw a fleet of emotions cross his face: alarm, distress, wariness, desire, hope. Adam held onto the last one, encouraged by the fact that Kris hadn’t crossed the room and tried to make an escape.
“Hey,” Adam said softly.
“Hey,” Kris replied.
Adam moved slowly to the art piece, as Kris stood unmoving by it. He saw Kris’s eyes widen and his body straighten up as he approached.
“It’s an odd sculpture, isn’t it?” Adam asked. “Robert Rauschenberg is the best at the brilliant and bizarre. This one is part of his ‘Combine’ series.”
“Um, yeah. Oil, newspaper, fabric, postcards and a bunch of other stuff,” Kris answered as he leaned in to read the placard. “Even, shoes and socks…and a stuffed hen?”
Adam laughed, “I read somewhere that he picked up trash and other objects that intrigued him off the streets and just melded them into his work. He was all about bridging the gap between art and life.”
“You seem to know a lot about him,” Kris remarked.
Shrugging, Adam circled the sculpture, purposely making a wide circuit around Kris. “Had to do some research for a role a few years back. It’s fascinating, the art world. A whole other crazy world in it of itself from what you and I know. Hollywood’s got nothing on them.”
“I didn’t know you were coming tonight.”
Adam chuckled as he wound his way back around. Leave it to Kris to cut the inane chit-chat. “Your father extended an invitation, but I didn’t realize until a few weeks ago this was the non-profit you worked at. I didn’t put two and two together fast enough.”
Kris nodded, “Thank you for coming. I’m sure Joyce is ridiculously excited about the press we’ll be getting. You being here means a lot.”
“Oh, I met her earlier,” Adam smiled. “She helped me down the press line. Sweet and gorgeous.”
“Yeah, she’s amazing.” Kris walked around the sculpture. “I…I need to get back. I’m surprised I haven’t been paged yet, and I’m sure leaving like this isn’t professional.”
“Can we talk?” Adam said hurriedly.
Kris’s hand went up to behind his neck in the endearing way Adam didn’t know he missed.
“I don’t think now is a…”
“No, of course not. You have to get back. Um, afterwards? Unless you need to be here for clean-up. But maybe this weekend?”
“Adam…”
“Kris, please? I…I just want to talk and explain.”
“I’m not sure…”
“Just coffee. You can pick the place, the time. I just need an hour. Please.”
Kris looked up at him and after what seemed like hours, nodded.
“I can’t tonight, but I’ll call you tomorrow.” Kris paused. “Same cell number?”
Adam let out the breath he was holding. “Yeah. I’ll be waiting.”
**
EOnline.com
LGBT Teens Get Star Treatment and Star Support
Los Angeles-based non-profit The Point Foundation got a huge boost of star power at its annual fund-raiser. Co-stars Adam Lambert and Nury Lavendar, director Anoop Desai lent their support to the gala last night as they walked the red carpet at the Museum of Contemporary Art in downtown LA. An extended trailer of their film Not Today, Not Tomorrow was screened for those who bought tickets to the event. Turn into E! News for the all the exclusive red-carpet interviews.
People.com
Star-Filled Gala at MOCA to Celebrate The Point Foundation
The Point Foundation went Hollywood last night for their annual fund-raising gala. The event for this Los Angeles-based non-profit organization for LGBT teens was held at the Museum of Contemporary Art in downtown Los Angeles. Not Today, Not Tomorrow director Anoop Desai and star Nury Lavendar were seen walking down the red carpet and talking with press. Secret surprise guest, co-star Adam Lambert, was the last to arrive, smiling and looking polished in his Giorgio Armani tuxedo.
**
Since the moment he got up, Kris played with his phone. Words with Friends was taking too long, as his friends seemed to be lacking with their vocabulary. Fruit Ninja bored him, and Angry Birds was pissing him off so bad, that he nearly threw the phone against the wall.
He really should call Adam as he had promised. Adam’s name and number on the screen glared at him, almost mocking, calling him chickenshit. He closed out of his contact list and opened up his photos app, scrolling through his albums.
A knock on his door made him scramble and hide his phone like he was going to be caught with porn. Kim opened the door and peeked her head in, “Kris, honey, are you coming down to join me for lunch?”
“I need to shower and change, but yeah, I’ll join you.”
“Are you sick, honey? You look flushed.”
“Oh, just a little warm from all the blankets, mama. I’m okay.”
Kim made a face showing that she didn’t believe him at all, “If you say so. It’s a gorgeous day outside, so I’m going to have lunch brought out to the patio, okay? Your father had to go into the office, so it’s just you and me.”
“Sure, mama. I’ll see you outside in a bit.”
Kris got out of bed and jumped into the shower, going through the motions while thinking about what to say when he eventually made the call. What was he going to say? Why did Adam want to see him or talk to him after all this time? It’s not like he tried to get a hold of him, because if Adam wanted to, it wouldn’t be that hard. Though, Kris paused, and his hands dropped from his half shampooed hair, was it that hard?
He had moved back into his parent’s house, changed his cell number. He was pretty sure Adam knew the name of the place he worked, but it had been so long ago when Neil announced it. Or if he had paid attention to the gossip pages, he would have found that out fairly quick, after all, the paparazzi did. Then, again, everyone in the office closed rank around him, so if Adam did try calling, he would have had to leave a message, which if he did, the girls would have thought was a tasteless joke. He was certain his father wasn’t going to give out any information, and obviously Tatiana hadn’t betrayed his trust either.
“Well, shit,” Kris murmured.
Quickly finishing his shower and changing into jeans and a t-shirt, he ran downstairs to meet his mother. She was carrying out a tray as he emerged from the kitchen. He caught up to her and lifted the tray from her hands, “I’ll take that, mama.”
He set it down and helped her arrange the plates on the table.
“Did you see Adam last night, dear?”
Kris choked on his lemonade. “Mama!”
“What?” she asked innocently. “He was at our table, looking more gorgeous than a man should be allowed to.”
“Uh.”
“Are you going to call him?”
“What?” he squeaked. He put the glass down so he wouldn’t drop or spill it or choke on its contents as his mom continued to talk.
“Oh, honey,” Kim said leaning over to pat his leg. “He disappeared for a bit, but when he returned he had a giant grin on his face. As we got up from the tables, I cornered him and had to find out.”
“Of course you did,” Kris groaned and pulled at his jaw. “Why would you do that?”
“Because I think he still adores you and is heartbroken. You two are adorable together.”
“Mama,” Kris started to say.
“Don’t ‘mama’ me, Kristopher,” she scolded. “After lunch, you’ll stay out here and call him while I put everything away. You’ll make arrangements to meet up with him later tonight or tomorrow. You’re not helping me clean up, because I won’t give you that excuse.”
“Mama…”
“Kristopher. Neil. Allen,” she stated emphatically.
“Fine.”
“Good,” she smiled. “Now let’s enjoy lunch.”
**
“God damn, stop with your pacing!” Tommy yelled after throwing a small cushion at Adam’s head. “You’re making me dizzy, dude.”
Adam tripped over his feet as the cushion thumped his shoulder and fell to the floor in front of him. “For fuck’s sake, Tommy. Stop throwing things at me!” Adam shouted as he bent over to pick it up.
Tommy settled back down into the couch, wrapping the blanket tight around himself, “Then stop wearing a hole into the rug. He’ll call.”
“He hasn’t called yet.”
“Dude, it’s barely noon,” Tommy said trying to placate him. He turned over to face Adam, “He’s probably shit-tired and still sleeping. We left at midnight, so who knows what the hell time he got out of there. And, he didn’t say when he’d call, right? Just that he would.”
Adam sat down on the floor, “I suppose.”
“Think about lunch while I sleep a little more.”
“You do know I have three perfectly good guestrooms with amazing beds you could use, right?”
Tommy rearranged the pillow under his head, “Nah, I’m good. Going on the road in a couple of weeks, don’t want to get too spoiled. Busses suck.”
Adam tossed the cushion back towards Tommy’s head, which veered right and missed the couch completely.
Opening an eye, Tommy drawled, “Dude, you throw like a girl.”
“Fuck you,” Adam laughed.
“I have a headache, dear.”
“Go back to sleep.”
“I hope there’s yummy food waiting for me when I get up.”
“Veggie platter, hummus and flatbread coming up.”
“Gross.”
“Deal with it.”
Adam got up off the floor and left Tommy to sleep in his office. He checked his phone again, to double-check that he didn’t miss any calls or texts, which was ridiculous since he’s had it in his hands since last night.
After he returned from the gallery, Adam knew he couldn’t stop grinning like an ass, so much so that Kim Allen had forced Brad out of his seat so she could grill Adam without drawing too much attention from the others. Earlier in the evening, she was polite and warm to him, but didn’t say much during the cocktail reception, and at the dinner table she was sitting on the other end of the table. As Adam shared what happened, her smile went from polite and curious to downright giddy. Granted, it wasn’t much, but it was enough to give Adam a semblance of optimism.
He had to admit, having Neil and Kim on his side for this was a surprise, but made him feel good. The way he handled the situation was…drastic, but he wanted…needed Kris to be safe, not be sucked into the world of gossip and tabloid journalism. Yes, Kris was a grown man, and yes, he probably would have been able to manage and steer through the land mines, but for once, Adam didn’t want him to go through it. For some reason, he actually cared about Kris’s feelings and what the intrusiveness would do to him.
Adam pulled open the refrigerator door and took out the food his housekeeper had prepared for him. He sat at the counter and picked at the carrots and cucumbers, trying not to stare at the phone he set aside. Realizing he had left the newspaper in the front entry, he got up to get it, just so he would have something to do while eating.
Halfway into the hall, his phone rang. Adam scrambled back into kitchen, knocking over the stool in his haste.
Shit! he grimaced, bending and flexing his toes. An unknown number, that would be Kris, right?
“Hello?”
“Uh, hey Adam,” Kris said from the other end of the line.
“Hey,” Adam answered softly. He was grinning again.
**
Kris pulled off the white t-shirt and threw it onto the bed. He dug through his dresser again, looking for another shirt.
The call with Adam yesterday was a wee bit stilted, kind of awkward, but the giddiness in Adam’s voice that he didn’t even try to hide made Kris’s stomach quiver. Eventually, they made plans to meet up today, and Kris couldn’t decide what to wear. It was much easier when he was on the road, less clothing to keep track of. In the last year, he had acquired more suits, shirts and shoes than he had in the last five years. The closet and dresser were packed to the gills. He actually missed not having a choice…just picking from a dozen plain t-shirts or plaid button downs and pairing them with jeans.
He stopped rifling through the dresser and stepped into the walk-in closet. They were meeting at Westside Tavern for a late lunch, so he didn’t have to be too dressy, but it seemed wrong to wear jeans and a t-shirt. Sifting through the pressed shirts on their hangers, Kris considered each one, when he found a casual Thomas Pink gray and blue striped button-down. He pulled it off the rod and held it out in front of him.
“This’ll have to do,” he said to himself.
Kris didn’t know why he was more nervous about this meeting than his date that ended up being a non-date, at least according to Adam’s press statement. It still irked him that that’s what Adam thought of their night out. At least with this lunch, there was no doubt as to what it was…a lunch. No misunderstandings.
He grabbed his wallet and keys and tried to get out of the house without being stopped by his parents, individually or together. Cale was right, he really needed to get his own place. He hadn’t had this much interference in his personal life since he was in high school.
“Oh, are you off to see Adam?”
So close, Kris thought as he put a smile on his face and dropped his hand from the doorknob.
“Hey, mama,” Kris turned and answered.
Kim approached him and straightened his unwrinkled collar, “Keep an open mind, okay dear?”
“Yes, mama,” Kris answered.
She pressed a kiss to his cheek and opened the door for him, “Now scoot. Have a nice lunch.”
Kris’s smile was genuine when he kissed her cheek in return, “I will. I’ll see you later.”
He navigated his car through the Sunday afternoon traffic on Sunset Blvd., and through usual congestion in Westwood near UCLA. As he neared the restaurant, his phone buzzed indicating a text message. Kris glanced down, but the screen went dark, so he continued into the underground garage figuring he could check it once he parked.
Sorry, running a few minutes late. Be there soon
Kris had to chuckle, as he checked the time. Unless Adam just left his house or there was serious traffic, he’d probably be on time, but Kris thought it was kind of sweet that he’d let him know. After reaching the top of the escalator, Kris checked his phone for a signal so he could text Adam back.
No worries. Grabbing a table. Ask for John, manager, when you get here.
“Hey John,” Kris said greeting his buddy.
“Kris, hey. Long time no see,” John said coming around the hostess desk to embrace Kris in a hug. “How are you doing?”
“Good, good. How are you? How’s Julie?”
“Ugh,” John groaned. “I still hate LA, but Julie’s loving it more and more each day, so…”
Kris laughed and patted his shoulder, “Sorry.”
“I’ll deal.” John looked around. “Just you? I can clear out some space at the bar in the corner.”
“Actually, I need a table for two. Can I get a corner booth?”
“Sure, sure,” John said grabbing two menus and telling the hostess to cross out table 17. “Come on.”
“Oh, uh, I told my guest to ask for you when he comes in. Are you going to be up front or working the floor?”
“If your guest will be here shortly, I’ll be up front, but I’ll be around. Anyone I should be looking out for? I’ll tell Jackson to keep an eye out, too.”
“Well, um. He’s kinda, uh. You’ll recognize him, so if you could just sure he doesn’t get harassed or gawked at?”
John slowed down at the small set of stairs, “Watch your step, here,” and looked over his shoulder, “Really? You want to tell me something Kris?”
“Not really, but you’ll know him when he comes in.”
“Fine,” John replied. “Here you go, some semblance of privacy. You came in at this hour when it wouldn’t be as crowded, didn’t you.”
“Well, duh.”
John laughed, “Sneaky bastard.” He put the menus down. “This is Anna’s section, so I’ll send her up. You want anything to drink?”
“You still have Monkey Knife Fight?”
“Of course.”
“One of those, then, for now.”
“You got it.”
Kris checked his phone for the time, and to see if he missed any messages or calls. All quiet in the last five minutes. He reached over to grab the plates and napkin-wrapped utensils to set them out…and for something to do. He looked around the restaurant, only a few tables had diners. It was the lull between lunch and dinner, ideal for, hopefully, what would be a meeting that would give him closure.
**
Adam sat in his car and waited. Breathing in and out slowly, he flexed his fingers as he removed them from their death grip on the steering wheel. It would be fine. It was just a casual get-together with…a friend.
Except, that was the problem, wasn’t it? They weren’t friends, they weren’t exes. He didn’t know what they were, and he wanted that to change. Adam just didn’t know if Kris wanted the same thing, but he was hoping he did.
A stab of jealousy had burst his bubble of happiness at the fundraiser when he saw Kris smiling at a blond guy, then jealousy turned into anger when he realized it was Zach. It took everything he had, along with the steadying hands of Brad and Tommy that prevented him from running across the room and punching Zach’s face. It also helped that Kim Allen took him aside during the live auction and confided in him that she was rooting for them. What that meant, exactly, he didn’t know, but at this point, Adam would take any help he could get. He just needed to figure out what he wanted as the outcome of all this, from Kris.
Taking a final breath, grabbed the keys and wallet from the center console and stepped out of the car. Glancing around to make sure he remembered where he parked, he headed to the escalator.
Adam looked up warily as he saw giant screens above him with listed movie times and posters, while to his right a bookstore hawked its wares. As he drove by, he figured it was a part of a mall, but this was strange. He stepped into the bright area and looked around for the restaurant, spotting it to his left, its glossy wood entrance beckoning him into the darkened space.
He took off his sunglasses as he approached the hostess table-he really didn’t need to be that kind of douchebag-and smiled when he saw the double-take of the two people behind the table.
“Hi, welcome to Westside Tavern,” a tall man said as approached them. He held out his hand, “I’m John, you’re Kris’s friend right?”
Adam shook his hand and nodded, “Adam. Nice to meet you.”
John went behind the table and spoke softly to the hostesses, while Adam took the opportunity to take in the restaurant. It fitted Kris’s personality, he decided, unpretentious and comfortable without being crass or a dive.
“Sorry about that, Adam,” John said coming back to him. “Let me show you to your table. Did you want a drink?”
“Water for now is fine,” Adam answered. “This is nice.”
John grinned, “Yeah, we like it.” He paused, “Watch your step. And here we are.”
“Thanks, John.”
Adam took in the sight of Kris as he played with the neck of the beer bottle. Less than 36 hours, but seeing Kris again settled something in him.
“Hey Kris,” John said to Kris. “Delivered safe and sound.” He turned to Adam, “I’ll have Anna deliver your water, and she’ll be serving you today. And, of course, I’m here, if there’s anything else you guys need.”
Kris lifted his chin, “Thanks, John. Appreciate it.”
Adam slid into the booth across from Kris and smiled warmly. “Hey.”
“Hey.”
“I like this place.”
“Yeah, the food’s awesome and the people are great.”
“You come here a lot?”
“Enough.”
They stopped as a perky brunette waitress came up with their waters and a large platter of mixed appetizers, “Compliments of the kitchen,” she said. “I’ll give you some time to look over the menu.” She bounced back down the stairs.
“The sandwiches and burgers are good,” Kris said as he pushed a menu in front of Adam. His lips quirked a bit, “Can’t tell you about the salads.”
Adam chuckled as he studied the menu, “I do eat things other than rabbit food.” He put the menu down, “I think I’ll have the chicken sandwich.”
Kris raised his eyebrows and laughed, “Of course you will. Your trainer wouldn’t be happy if you splurged on a greasy burger and fries, huh?” He leaned over and whispered conspiringly, “I won’t tell if you won’t.”
Adam faltered. Was Kris teasing him? He sat back and laughed, “Fine. I’ll have the cheeseburger. And if it’s not all that you make it out to be, then what?”
“I’ll eat the rest of it, along with mine and we’ll order you the chicken sandwich as back-up so you don’t leave here hungry.”
“Fat chance of that,” Adam mumbled as he took a sip of water.
**
Just a little more, Part 8 ...is here...
Rating: NC-17
Links to other parts: Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 | Part 6
**
As Kris moved carefully between the ongoing construction, overseeing the transformation of the Sculpture Plaza and Arco Court, he thought back to why he was disappointed that Adam wasn’t at the party and the fact that no one even brought his name up. It should have been a great evening, but the distinct lack of anything Adam rubbed him the wrong way, which in turn, annoyed him for being annoyed.
Shaking his head, he focused back on the activities around him. He tried not to think about how it had been nearly a year since he had met Adam.
Robert, his boss, and everyone at the office were beyond ecstatic with how the gala was coming together. The various spaces inside MOCA were taking on an ethereal look, modern and futuristic. Using the name of the film as the theme of the fundraiser, the modern art pieces and sculptures mixed in brilliantly with what the decorators were putting together. String lights and strands of ivy hung intertwined along the rails and ceilings, banners hung loosely off wires and broad shiny gold and blue ribbons accented the entryways.
When the press release hit the wires that an extended, exclusive trailer of Not Today, Not Tomorrow would be part of the evening for all attendees and that Black Powder was a primary sponsor, the Foundation’s annual event not only sold out, but sold out weeks ahead of date for the first time in eight years. His father had confirmed the attendance of Anoop and Nury for their VIP table, which the fundraising committee and PR team used to generate more press in the last month than they had received all year. The three platinum VIP tables were sold in days, with the gold and silver tables following quickly.
The blue and gold carpet and giant backdrop banner were being rolled out and set up, the install teams taking their time to smooth out wrinkles and bumps. Kris noted the placement of the lights and plants so that the production supervisor could make the appropriate changes before the media would be corralled off tomorrow night. After dropping off his list of modifications, Kris waved good-bye to his team and headed out.
He was excited, yet dreading the event at the same time. He was wound up to see his vision come to fruition and prove his worth to his co-workers, especially since the news of his background came to light in the most inopportune way months ago. With this project under his belt, he’d be able to hold his head up high.
Walking out into the mid-day sun, Kris reached into his back pocket for his phone as it buzzed. Without checking the screen, he answered, “Yeah?”
“Kris, hi. It’s Joyce. Sorry to bother you, but this guy Zach keeps calling and says he needs to talk to you. The temps are freaking out, so they transferred him to me,” Joyce apologized. “Didn’t want to give your cell number out, so can I just patch him through to you right now?”
Kris blew out a breath, “Yeah, that’s fine. Please apologize to everyone in the office for this, and I’m sorry you got stuck with it.”
Joyce laughed, “Not a problem. Figured I’m here in the office, I should do something useful instead of, you know, actually trying to make sure the last-minute event stuff is taken care of.”
Shaking his head, Kris chuckled, “Thanks so much. I’ll be in the office in about half an hour to help you out.”
“No worries, see you in a bit. And, here you go.”
“Hello?”
“Kris?”
“Yeah,” Kris replied.
“Hey, it’s Zach.”
“What’s up?”
“Damn, getting through to you is like trying to get into a nun’s panties or something.”
“I’m busy, Zach. What is it you needed?”
“Oh, that’s right!” Zach enthused. “Your fundraiser is tomorrow night.”
“Uh,” Kris hedged. “Yeah. How do you know about it?”
“Dude, you know the non-profit world is small and incestuous. It’s the talk of the town, good job there, buddy.”
“Um, thanks.”
“So, listen, my boss and I have a table tomorrow night,” Zach said. “And…”
“What?” Kris interrupted. He stopped in his tracks at the entrance of the parking garage. He pulled the phone away from his ear and looked at it like it was spouting tentacles.
“…Robin’s like that, “ Zach was saying. “She always buys a few seats or a table for pretty much all the various non-profit fundraisers in town. Good to support each other, you know?”
“That’s…that’s amazing. Thank you.”
“Oh, don’t thank me, she’s amazing that way. So, I wanted to check and see if there was anything I could do? My communications team is amazing, so any last-minute help we can give you, let me know. I was trying to make the offer sooner, but getting a hold of you has been a pain, and I know you’ve been busy.”
Kris walked into the shaded entrance of the doorway and leaned against the corner, “Thanks, but Joyce and her team seems to have it all under control. I’ll…I’ll bring it up to her when I get to the office, though.”
“Cool. Sounds like it’s going to be exciting tomorrow night.”
“Yeah. I just hope it goes smoothly.”
“I’m glad you finally used your connections to get ahead and make a name for yourself. The Point Foundation certainly needs it.”
The fondness that was seeping into Kris’s brain at Zach’s unselfishness quickly disappeared at the statement. He scowled into the phone, “I didn’t use my connections and it’s not about getting ahead.”
Zach laughed, “Come on Kris, you know I didn’t mean it that way.”
“Yeah? How’d you mean it then?” Kris asked back coldly. “It was a strategic business decision, and the production team approached us.”
“Hey,” Zach said carefully. “I’m sorry, man. I know you’re touchy about this, but that’s not how I meant it.”
“Whatever.”
“Dude, seriously. I’m just glad that it’s working out for you, that’s all.”
Kris took a deep breath, “Fine.”
“Like I said, offering my resources, that’s all, okay?”
“Yeah, okay.”
“Give me a call; otherwise I’ll see you tomorrow night.”
Kris pressed the button to end the call and banged his head against the doorjamb. “Dammit.”
**
Adam paced the foyer waiting for his car while Brad adjusted his tie in the mirror. Tommy and Stella walked out of the kitchen with bottles of juice in the hands.
“You’re gonna need to get the floors re-done if you keep at it,” Tommy said, handing over the cranberry juice. “Because Connie’s gonna have a hissy fit about the black scuffs.”
Taking a small sip, Adam stopped and smiled at his friends. “The car’s late, that’s all. I hate being late for these things, and it’s in fucking downtown.”
“You and Nury are expected to be late, it’s what all the fabulous divas and drama queens do,” Brad retorted. “Besides, think of the frenzy you’ll create just walking in…if they’re still around. Anoop and Nury are the only celebrities expected to be there, the rest are the bourgeois LA elite that no one knows and no one gives a fuck about.”
“That’s not true,” Tommy replied. “We all love their money.”
Brad pursed his lips, “True, true. Their wallets are beautiful things.”
The house intercom went off, signaling the arrival of the car. Adam smiled and looked at them, “You guys ready?”
He opened the door and ushered them out. Patting his pocket for the invitations, he set the alarm, took a deep breath and headed to the car. It was gonna be a long night, he just hoped they had top-shelf alcohol to power him through it.
“I looked up this non-profit and the deets of the event,” Brad started. “How is it Anoop got roped into it?”
“It was Neil and Jeremy’s idea,” Adam replied as he sipped on his juice. It was warm now, but it kept him occupied.
“Huh,” Brad murmured.
Adam looked over at him and sighed, “Just say it.”
Brad shrugged, “I was curious is all, sweets. You have your own tie-ins with different charities that you do so much with, thought that the filmmakers would want to work with those instead. Or even Nury’s.”
Tommy chimed in, “He’s just a puppet that does as the studio tells him.”
Adam rolled his eyes and looked out of the blackened windows at the cars stopped alongside theirs. The 10 eastbound was always jammed up, especially the closer you got to downtown.
“Do you know anything about The Point Foundation?” Brad asked.
“Yeah, I looked it up after I got the invitation,” Adam answered. “They do good things, so I’m glad I’m going and love that Black Powder got a table.”
“Is that the only reason?”
“Why else? It’s great tie-in with the message of the movie, we’re getting a shit-ton of press and the movie isn’t even out yet. Entertainment Weekly gave us a double-page spread in the “Summer Movies” issue just last week.”
“What’s Brad getting at?” Stella asked out loud. “I mean, it seems like tonight’s a great opportunity to get a different demographic interested in the movie, this small non-profit gets a giant boost in terms of awareness. Am I missing something?”
Adam leaned his head back against the seat and closed his eyes. He knew it was wishful thinking and completely pointless in hoping that Brad wouldn’t say anything. Pinching the bridge of this nose, he opened his mouth to explain, but Tommy stepped in first.
“What Brad is not-so-subtlety trying to get out of Adam is if he knows that the love of his life, one Mr. Kris Allen, is a director at The Point Foundation,” Tommy explained. He patted her knee softly and continued, “And if Adam is nervous or looking forward to tonight, especially since their infamous date. The unhappy ending in which, the non-relationship, which could have been a relationship, imploded when Adam then decided to avoid Kris’s calls for a few weeks, and then when our Prince Charming here thinks he’s ready to face the music, Kris changed his number and moved out of his apartment.”
Stella stared at Adam, eyes wide and full of sadness, “Oh, honey…”
“We’re pretty sure Adam could have pushed to get a hold of him, but it was obvious our little puppy Kris didn’t want to be contacted,” Brad finished. “So, here we are.”
“What does that mean for tonight?” Stella asked looking at the three men.
“It means,” Brad said as the limousine pulled out of traffic onto the downtown streets. “That we see if the sparks are still there, which I’m pretty sure they are, and if puppy’s bark is worse than his bite or after seeing Adam all done up fine and looking hot, he’ll roll over and want his tummy rubbed.”
**
“Joyce, you look gorgeous,” Kris said with a smile.
She blushed, “Aww, thanks Kris.” She looked him over, “You clean up nice yourself.” She winked at him, “A nice change of pace from the plaid, skinny jeans and nasty sneakers you wear all the time that make you look like a community college reject.”
Kris bumped her shoulder softly, “Shush. Not all of us have your fashion sense with killer stilettos.” He handed her the bundle of wires of the headset, “You ready?”
“Not really, but hey, it’s exciting, right?” Carefully wrapping the wires around her neck and clipping on the base to her notepad, she glanced over at the media lined up against the portable long line of metal rails, “Never thought I’d actually have to turn away press to one of our events.”
“You and your team did an amazing job. Saw the final list this morning.”
“You, Mr. Director, are the one that made it happen,” she smiled. “Have I told you lately that I’m glad you’re on board with us?”
This time Kris blushed, “Just trying to make-up for the nightmare I created when I first started.”
Joyce burst out with laughter, “That was one of the reasons I got out of personal and entertainment publicity, but I’m glad I had the background to know how to take care of it.” She leaned over and kissed him on the cheek, “I don’t think I’ll mind handling publicity for our own celebrity on the side. Now, get out of here, and enjoy your big night.”
“When you get the chance, tell everyone I’m buying a round next week as thanks,” Kris said.
“Will do, now shoo.”
Kris gave her a brief one-armed hug and headed inside. He stopped at the sudden frenzy and bursts of flashes going off on the carpet. Turning, he smiled as he saw his father, mother and Anoop get out of a black SUV. They walked down the carpet, his mother standing in the background as microphones were shoved into the faces of his father and Anoop, questions being shouted out, voices clamoring over each other to be heard. Without thinking, Kris stepped out to escort his mother inside, and the flare of flashes went off again. He ducked his head and hurried her inside.
“Sorry, mama,” Kris said sheepishly.
“What are you apologizing for, dear?”
“Didn’t mean to create a scene like that out there.”
Kim giggled, “Oh honey, that was far from a scene. You were being the lovely gentleman I raised you to be.” She kissed his cheek. “I believe it’s time you get me a cocktail while we wait for your father.” Grabbing his arm, “Shall we?”
“Of course,” Kris acquiesced. He led them to the corner bar, giant grin on his face. “And, you look lovely, mama.”
“Why, thank you,” Kim smiled. “Though, I’m sure your father might not like the bill when it comes in.”
“I think he can afford it,” he replied dryly and laughed when she slapped his hand. “Come on before the line gets too long.”
**
Adam made the limousine circle around the block twice to make sure the media frenzy had died down. Ignoring the complaints of Brad and Tommy, he smirked knowingly when he saw the whirl of flashes go off when Nury stepped out her car with a giant smile and wave.
“Cripes, Adam,” Tommy whined. “What the big deal? You get your picture taken all the time. I need a drink, can we pull over already?” He scooted forward to look out the window, “And from what I can tell, none of your crazy fans are out there. It’s just the usual press line. Damn,” he whistled, “That’s as contained as I’ve ever seen.” He sat back in the seat, “How do you not feel like a caged animal doing that on a regular basis?”
“Just one more time,” Adam said. “Need to make sure Nury gets her moment in the spotlight.” He purposely ignored the last part of Tommy’s statement.
“Here, sweets,” Brad said as they finally pulled up the cordoned off driveway. He fixed Adam’s tie and brushed a little powder on his nose and forehead. “There,” he said. “Camera-ready, if I do say so myself; remember to smile pretty for everyone, okay?”
The driver came around to open the door for them, causing a small flurry of action from the press line, the collective turning around to see who the late arrival was. Shifting their positions from the small space, photographers and journalists shouted out their demands to Adam, forgetting about the attendees left confused on the carpet.
“Adam! Over here!”
“Adam! Adam! Look over here!”
“Can you tell us why you’re here?”
“How involved are you in The Point Foundation?”
“Who are you here with? Is that your new boyfriend?”
Variations of the same demands, commands and questions were lobbed out to Adam as he smiled, waved and walked down the carpet. He nodded to Brad, Tommy and Stella for them to head inside quickly, that he’d take care of the press. After making sure they got through the doors securely, he stopped and posed for photos.
A woman with a notepad and headset came out to greet him, “Mr. Lambert, hi, I’m Joyce, senior communications director for The Point Foundation. I didn’t know you were coming tonight, otherwise I would have made sure someone was here to escort you inside and bypass the press line or at least help you navigate through the mass.”
“Please, call me Adam,” he said taking her hand. “And, I wasn’t sure I would be able to make it myself until the last minute, so it’s not a problem. I don’t mind working the carpet at all, and,” he looked at the line of cameras, then winked at her, “this isn’t a mass at all. I’ve dealt with worse on my own.”
Joyce smiled and laughed, “Of course, I didn’t mean…”
He held his hand up, “If you have some folks you’d like me to talk to specifically for the Foundation, I’d be more than happy to speak with them.”
“Oh!” Joyce said lighting up. “It would…wow. Of course. I’ll make the introductions.” She led him down the line.
Adam smiled and said all the right things to the two female reporters, one whose beat was non-profits and small business for the Los Angeles Times and the other for a national magazine. He wouldn’t be able to remember her name, what she covered or the name of the publication she wrote for if a gun was put to his head. All he knew was that they just about swooned when Joyce brought him up and they started to talk. If it wasn’t so sweet and adorable, he would have laughed. It had been a while since he spoke with journalists who weren’t part of the entertainment world and were genuinely flummoxed to talk to him.
After they were finished, Joyce accompanied him to the entryway and had another event person usher him inside. He was pretty sure Joyce wanted to say something, but was too professional to bring it up. She pointed to the media folks that were starting to clear up and head out, final notes and information had to be given out and excused herself.
Soft music from a string quartet greeted him, the cocktail reception in full effect. Men in tuxedos stood around with cocktails in one hand and cigars in the other; women were comparing dresses, jewelry and purses. It was really no different than any other Hollywood party, except these people had more power and money and controlled half the city of Los Angeles. A small smile plastered onto his face, Adam looked around to find his friends, and maybe, possibly see if he would catch site of a certain someone he wasn’t sure he wanted to see. He spotted Tommy’s black and blond hair near the bar and headed over.
“That didn’t take too long, sweets,” Brad said handing him a glass. “Extra limes.”
Adam gave it a funny look and sniffed at it, “Um, thanks. And, yeah it was fairly painless.”
“It’s Belvedere and soda, so shut up and drink it,” Brad ordered. He reached up and flicked a gnat from his hair. “And, no, we haven’t seen the puppy yet.”
Adam lifted a brow and put his drink down, “I don’t believe I asked.”
“It was implied from your look,” Brad said with an evil smile. He tsked and patted Adam’s hand, “What would you like us to do if we do see the puppy? Drag him away and hold him until he comes to his senses? Stalk him and report in with everything he does? Drive away anyone he’s talking to?”
“Whoa, what? No!” Adam looked over at Tommy for help.
Stella was stifling a laugh, turning her body away from the three of them. She coughed delicately and faced them. “Okay, someone point him out to me. I’ll chat him up and see where everything stands, yeah?”
“Honey, there’s no need…”
“Ooh, right over there!” Brad pointed through the crowd. “He’s the cute little puppy talking to the scary Botox woman and Nury.”
“Shhhh! Not so loud,” Adam whispered.
Brad turned to Adam, “Did you just shush me?”
“You so got shushed,” Tommy laughed.
“I don’t need a scene,” Adam said, trying to placate Brad.
Stella grabbed a champagne flute from a passing waiter, “You boys keep fighting, while I go make my way over to that cutie.” She winked at Adam, “He’s adorable. You’ve got great taste.” Then she leaned over to kiss Tommy on the cheek, “Obviously.” Waving her fingers, she stepped into the crowd and eased to way to the other end of the courtyard.
“I’m going to kill you all,” Adam scowled. “Slowly and painfully.”
**
Kris was trying to figure out a way to back out of the conversation between Nury and Mrs. Starkling, but there was no way to do it without appearing completely rude. His headset proved that everyone else remained busy, yet not once was he paged, no matter how much he was praying for the interruption.
“Hello.”
Kris looked at the petite woman in a red and black lace cocktail dress who had approached him. Her short black hair was highlighted in maroons and purples, sparkling in the lights, making him touch his own unconsciously.
“Uh, hi,” Kris answered. “Can I help you?” he asked with a smile.
“I’m sorry to butt in like this,” she started to say.
“Oh, please,” Kris assured her. “Don’t worry about it.” It didn’t matter who she was, but right now, he could have kissed her. “It’s not a problem. Just, um, give me a minute?” Seeing her nod, he excused himself from the two women chatting about their potential holiday vacations. He shook his head, it was only June.
“So, what can I help you with?” he asked her as he moved away from his previous companions.
“You’re Kris, right?” she asked. He nodded, but eyed her curiously. “I’m Stella,” she said. “I, uh, okay, wow, this is a little weirder than I thought it would be.” He made a confused face as she seemed to steel herself. “So, uh, I’m here with some friends-great event, by the way, this is gorgeous…”
Kris smiled, “I have a great team.”
“It’s amazing,”
Kris nodded, “It is. Everyone worked hard on it. So, your friend?”
“Oh, right. My friends know you, and they’re a little gun-shy about coming up to you.”
“Okay,” Kris said slowly and chuckled. “I didn’t think I was that unapproachable.” He lifted his hand to scruff the back of his head, “Did they want to ask me something? Make a request? Meet some of our board members or,” he turned around, “Ms. Lavender or Mr. Desai?”
“You’re not!” Stella exclaimed. “Oh, it’s not that. You’re actually really adorable!”
Kris felt the blush creep up his neck into his face.
Stella looked around, worry marring her face, “Shit, sorry.” She moved her hands back and forth, unsure of what to do at his distressed and blushing face. “Um, wow,” she said. “Doing this sounded so much easier in my head earlier.”
“Doing what?”
“So,” Stella said clearing her throat. “Can, we uh, take a walk? It might be easier for me.”
“Sure,” he replied. He offered his arm and led her into the gallery.
“My friend,” she started to say. “Well, my boyfriend’s friend. He likes you.”
“Um.”
“Are you dating anyone?” she asked suddenly.
Kris stopped in front of a painting and paused before answering. “You seem like a nice person, but I’m not sure…I mean, I don’t know you or your friends.”
“Shit,” Stella mumbled. She pulled her hand from his arm and twisted around to face him. “Okay,” she said stopping him. “Here’s the deal.” After taking in a breath, “This guy who likes you, he’s a sweetheart. He’s kind of hung up on you, actually.”
Kris had a bad feeling about this, so bad, in fact, that he wanted to escape. An hour long conversation between Nury and Mrs. Starkling would be preferable at this point. He was saved from replying with the announcement of dinner service.
He smiled politely and took Stella’s hand, “Shall we? I’ll walk you to your table.” They started to walk down the corridor, “Do you know you’re table number?”
As she rifled through her clutch, he held his breath. Please don’t be table one, please don’t be table…
She pulled out the invitation, “Table one,” she announced with a grin.
Kris swallowed the lump in his throat, and froze the smile into place, “Let’s go.”
He could only hope that he would be able to escort her to the table and make his escape without running into the person he didn’t want to see. It was going to be a longer night than originally anticipated.
**
“Adam, sweetie!” Nury screamed. “I didn’t know you were coming tonight.”
“Hello, darling,” Adam replied and kissed her cheek. “You look lovely.”
Nury preened and patted the chair next to her, “Come, sit.”
Adam glanced around the table, “No Hugh tonight?”
She waved her hand, “Oh, last-minute re-shoots, so he had to go back up to Vancouver last night.” She pouted, “I’m here alone.” She widened her eyes when Brad sat next to him, “Oh, are you two…”
“No, he and my friends wanted to come see the trailer, and Neil was good enough to offer the extra tickets. I guess they were for Hugh and Jackie, huh?” He introduced Nury to Brad, Tommy and Stella as they settled in their seats.
Neil came around to shake everyone’s hands and thanked them for joining him. The group chatted amiably, though Kim and Neil seemed a little leery of Tommy at first, until they realized Tommy and Stella were together. Adam didn’t feel like he needed to explain, so he didn’t.
Adam looked up every time there was a commotion on the stage, hoping to catch sight of Kris. As much as he thought he was being subtle, Brad pretty much called him out on his head turning and body shifting, trying to see over centerpieces and in between moving bodies, not paying attention to the awards and speeches being made. Not once did Kris make an appearance at the podium or even near it. No luck with any sightings at all. Kris couldn’t have left early. Right?
As dessert was being placed in front of them, coffee and tea being poured, Anoop took the stage, which surprised Adam. Why didn’t he know Anoop would be speaking? He thought Neil or Jeremy would be the ones to introduce the film, as they were the executive producers. Pushing back the small plate of chocolate, he prepared himself for the screening that would take place.
“We started principle shooting on this amazing film a year ago,” Anoop was saying. It startled Adam when he realized how much time had passed and how quickly it did.
“…It was an emotional journey for all of us,” Anoop continued. “And I hope that our voyage from behind the scenes to what you see on the screen gives you a glimpse of the pain, hope and joy we want everyone to feel. I want to thank The Point Foundation and Black Powder Productions for allowing us this opportunity to share this with you.”
A few minutes into the trailer, Nury tugged his arm and motioned for him to follow her. Seeing that everyone was glued to the giant projection screen, he backed away from the table with minimal floor scraping, and got a slightly bemused look from Brad. After a few gestures, which he hoped Brad understood, Adam made his way out of the room.
“Come on, darling, we need to hurry,” she said cryptically.
“Where are we going? What are we doing?” Adam whispered. There really was no reason he couldn’t speak normally, but it looked like they were doing something covert and a softer voice seemed more appropriate.
“Something I should have done a while ago, but didn’t really have the chance,” Nury answered vaguely.
They walked down a hallway and stopped at the entrance into the permanent collection gallery which stood empty of people, only watched by a couple security guards slowly strolling around the room. Adam gazed around to see if there was anything that would have Nury leaving the main room for, but saw nothing but sculptures and paintings. Then, his steps stuttered as he saw him leaning over slightly to study a Rauschenberg piece.
Adam’s breath hitched as he watched Kris walk around the sculpture, unaware of his audience. As Kris bent down to scrutinize the sculpture more closely, Adam continued to stare at the man he hadn’t stopped thinking about from the moment they met.
“Go,” Nury said into his ear. Giving him a quick hug, she then shoved him into the room and quickly disappeared into the hallway.
Kris peeked around the artwork, finally noticing he wasn’t alone. Adam saw a fleet of emotions cross his face: alarm, distress, wariness, desire, hope. Adam held onto the last one, encouraged by the fact that Kris hadn’t crossed the room and tried to make an escape.
“Hey,” Adam said softly.
“Hey,” Kris replied.
Adam moved slowly to the art piece, as Kris stood unmoving by it. He saw Kris’s eyes widen and his body straighten up as he approached.
“It’s an odd sculpture, isn’t it?” Adam asked. “Robert Rauschenberg is the best at the brilliant and bizarre. This one is part of his ‘Combine’ series.”
“Um, yeah. Oil, newspaper, fabric, postcards and a bunch of other stuff,” Kris answered as he leaned in to read the placard. “Even, shoes and socks…and a stuffed hen?”
Adam laughed, “I read somewhere that he picked up trash and other objects that intrigued him off the streets and just melded them into his work. He was all about bridging the gap between art and life.”
“You seem to know a lot about him,” Kris remarked.
Shrugging, Adam circled the sculpture, purposely making a wide circuit around Kris. “Had to do some research for a role a few years back. It’s fascinating, the art world. A whole other crazy world in it of itself from what you and I know. Hollywood’s got nothing on them.”
“I didn’t know you were coming tonight.”
Adam chuckled as he wound his way back around. Leave it to Kris to cut the inane chit-chat. “Your father extended an invitation, but I didn’t realize until a few weeks ago this was the non-profit you worked at. I didn’t put two and two together fast enough.”
Kris nodded, “Thank you for coming. I’m sure Joyce is ridiculously excited about the press we’ll be getting. You being here means a lot.”
“Oh, I met her earlier,” Adam smiled. “She helped me down the press line. Sweet and gorgeous.”
“Yeah, she’s amazing.” Kris walked around the sculpture. “I…I need to get back. I’m surprised I haven’t been paged yet, and I’m sure leaving like this isn’t professional.”
“Can we talk?” Adam said hurriedly.
Kris’s hand went up to behind his neck in the endearing way Adam didn’t know he missed.
“I don’t think now is a…”
“No, of course not. You have to get back. Um, afterwards? Unless you need to be here for clean-up. But maybe this weekend?”
“Adam…”
“Kris, please? I…I just want to talk and explain.”
“I’m not sure…”
“Just coffee. You can pick the place, the time. I just need an hour. Please.”
Kris looked up at him and after what seemed like hours, nodded.
“I can’t tonight, but I’ll call you tomorrow.” Kris paused. “Same cell number?”
Adam let out the breath he was holding. “Yeah. I’ll be waiting.”
**
EOnline.com
LGBT Teens Get Star Treatment and Star Support
Los Angeles-based non-profit The Point Foundation got a huge boost of star power at its annual fund-raiser. Co-stars Adam Lambert and Nury Lavendar, director Anoop Desai lent their support to the gala last night as they walked the red carpet at the Museum of Contemporary Art in downtown LA. An extended trailer of their film Not Today, Not Tomorrow was screened for those who bought tickets to the event. Turn into E! News for the all the exclusive red-carpet interviews.
People.com
Star-Filled Gala at MOCA to Celebrate The Point Foundation
The Point Foundation went Hollywood last night for their annual fund-raising gala. The event for this Los Angeles-based non-profit organization for LGBT teens was held at the Museum of Contemporary Art in downtown Los Angeles. Not Today, Not Tomorrow director Anoop Desai and star Nury Lavendar were seen walking down the red carpet and talking with press. Secret surprise guest, co-star Adam Lambert, was the last to arrive, smiling and looking polished in his Giorgio Armani tuxedo.
**
Since the moment he got up, Kris played with his phone. Words with Friends was taking too long, as his friends seemed to be lacking with their vocabulary. Fruit Ninja bored him, and Angry Birds was pissing him off so bad, that he nearly threw the phone against the wall.
He really should call Adam as he had promised. Adam’s name and number on the screen glared at him, almost mocking, calling him chickenshit. He closed out of his contact list and opened up his photos app, scrolling through his albums.
A knock on his door made him scramble and hide his phone like he was going to be caught with porn. Kim opened the door and peeked her head in, “Kris, honey, are you coming down to join me for lunch?”
“I need to shower and change, but yeah, I’ll join you.”
“Are you sick, honey? You look flushed.”
“Oh, just a little warm from all the blankets, mama. I’m okay.”
Kim made a face showing that she didn’t believe him at all, “If you say so. It’s a gorgeous day outside, so I’m going to have lunch brought out to the patio, okay? Your father had to go into the office, so it’s just you and me.”
“Sure, mama. I’ll see you outside in a bit.”
Kris got out of bed and jumped into the shower, going through the motions while thinking about what to say when he eventually made the call. What was he going to say? Why did Adam want to see him or talk to him after all this time? It’s not like he tried to get a hold of him, because if Adam wanted to, it wouldn’t be that hard. Though, Kris paused, and his hands dropped from his half shampooed hair, was it that hard?
He had moved back into his parent’s house, changed his cell number. He was pretty sure Adam knew the name of the place he worked, but it had been so long ago when Neil announced it. Or if he had paid attention to the gossip pages, he would have found that out fairly quick, after all, the paparazzi did. Then, again, everyone in the office closed rank around him, so if Adam did try calling, he would have had to leave a message, which if he did, the girls would have thought was a tasteless joke. He was certain his father wasn’t going to give out any information, and obviously Tatiana hadn’t betrayed his trust either.
“Well, shit,” Kris murmured.
Quickly finishing his shower and changing into jeans and a t-shirt, he ran downstairs to meet his mother. She was carrying out a tray as he emerged from the kitchen. He caught up to her and lifted the tray from her hands, “I’ll take that, mama.”
He set it down and helped her arrange the plates on the table.
“Did you see Adam last night, dear?”
Kris choked on his lemonade. “Mama!”
“What?” she asked innocently. “He was at our table, looking more gorgeous than a man should be allowed to.”
“Uh.”
“Are you going to call him?”
“What?” he squeaked. He put the glass down so he wouldn’t drop or spill it or choke on its contents as his mom continued to talk.
“Oh, honey,” Kim said leaning over to pat his leg. “He disappeared for a bit, but when he returned he had a giant grin on his face. As we got up from the tables, I cornered him and had to find out.”
“Of course you did,” Kris groaned and pulled at his jaw. “Why would you do that?”
“Because I think he still adores you and is heartbroken. You two are adorable together.”
“Mama,” Kris started to say.
“Don’t ‘mama’ me, Kristopher,” she scolded. “After lunch, you’ll stay out here and call him while I put everything away. You’ll make arrangements to meet up with him later tonight or tomorrow. You’re not helping me clean up, because I won’t give you that excuse.”
“Mama…”
“Kristopher. Neil. Allen,” she stated emphatically.
“Fine.”
“Good,” she smiled. “Now let’s enjoy lunch.”
**
“God damn, stop with your pacing!” Tommy yelled after throwing a small cushion at Adam’s head. “You’re making me dizzy, dude.”
Adam tripped over his feet as the cushion thumped his shoulder and fell to the floor in front of him. “For fuck’s sake, Tommy. Stop throwing things at me!” Adam shouted as he bent over to pick it up.
Tommy settled back down into the couch, wrapping the blanket tight around himself, “Then stop wearing a hole into the rug. He’ll call.”
“He hasn’t called yet.”
“Dude, it’s barely noon,” Tommy said trying to placate him. He turned over to face Adam, “He’s probably shit-tired and still sleeping. We left at midnight, so who knows what the hell time he got out of there. And, he didn’t say when he’d call, right? Just that he would.”
Adam sat down on the floor, “I suppose.”
“Think about lunch while I sleep a little more.”
“You do know I have three perfectly good guestrooms with amazing beds you could use, right?”
Tommy rearranged the pillow under his head, “Nah, I’m good. Going on the road in a couple of weeks, don’t want to get too spoiled. Busses suck.”
Adam tossed the cushion back towards Tommy’s head, which veered right and missed the couch completely.
Opening an eye, Tommy drawled, “Dude, you throw like a girl.”
“Fuck you,” Adam laughed.
“I have a headache, dear.”
“Go back to sleep.”
“I hope there’s yummy food waiting for me when I get up.”
“Veggie platter, hummus and flatbread coming up.”
“Gross.”
“Deal with it.”
Adam got up off the floor and left Tommy to sleep in his office. He checked his phone again, to double-check that he didn’t miss any calls or texts, which was ridiculous since he’s had it in his hands since last night.
After he returned from the gallery, Adam knew he couldn’t stop grinning like an ass, so much so that Kim Allen had forced Brad out of his seat so she could grill Adam without drawing too much attention from the others. Earlier in the evening, she was polite and warm to him, but didn’t say much during the cocktail reception, and at the dinner table she was sitting on the other end of the table. As Adam shared what happened, her smile went from polite and curious to downright giddy. Granted, it wasn’t much, but it was enough to give Adam a semblance of optimism.
He had to admit, having Neil and Kim on his side for this was a surprise, but made him feel good. The way he handled the situation was…drastic, but he wanted…needed Kris to be safe, not be sucked into the world of gossip and tabloid journalism. Yes, Kris was a grown man, and yes, he probably would have been able to manage and steer through the land mines, but for once, Adam didn’t want him to go through it. For some reason, he actually cared about Kris’s feelings and what the intrusiveness would do to him.
Adam pulled open the refrigerator door and took out the food his housekeeper had prepared for him. He sat at the counter and picked at the carrots and cucumbers, trying not to stare at the phone he set aside. Realizing he had left the newspaper in the front entry, he got up to get it, just so he would have something to do while eating.
Halfway into the hall, his phone rang. Adam scrambled back into kitchen, knocking over the stool in his haste.
Shit! he grimaced, bending and flexing his toes. An unknown number, that would be Kris, right?
“Hello?”
“Uh, hey Adam,” Kris said from the other end of the line.
“Hey,” Adam answered softly. He was grinning again.
**
Kris pulled off the white t-shirt and threw it onto the bed. He dug through his dresser again, looking for another shirt.
The call with Adam yesterday was a wee bit stilted, kind of awkward, but the giddiness in Adam’s voice that he didn’t even try to hide made Kris’s stomach quiver. Eventually, they made plans to meet up today, and Kris couldn’t decide what to wear. It was much easier when he was on the road, less clothing to keep track of. In the last year, he had acquired more suits, shirts and shoes than he had in the last five years. The closet and dresser were packed to the gills. He actually missed not having a choice…just picking from a dozen plain t-shirts or plaid button downs and pairing them with jeans.
He stopped rifling through the dresser and stepped into the walk-in closet. They were meeting at Westside Tavern for a late lunch, so he didn’t have to be too dressy, but it seemed wrong to wear jeans and a t-shirt. Sifting through the pressed shirts on their hangers, Kris considered each one, when he found a casual Thomas Pink gray and blue striped button-down. He pulled it off the rod and held it out in front of him.
“This’ll have to do,” he said to himself.
Kris didn’t know why he was more nervous about this meeting than his date that ended up being a non-date, at least according to Adam’s press statement. It still irked him that that’s what Adam thought of their night out. At least with this lunch, there was no doubt as to what it was…a lunch. No misunderstandings.
He grabbed his wallet and keys and tried to get out of the house without being stopped by his parents, individually or together. Cale was right, he really needed to get his own place. He hadn’t had this much interference in his personal life since he was in high school.
“Oh, are you off to see Adam?”
So close, Kris thought as he put a smile on his face and dropped his hand from the doorknob.
“Hey, mama,” Kris turned and answered.
Kim approached him and straightened his unwrinkled collar, “Keep an open mind, okay dear?”
“Yes, mama,” Kris answered.
She pressed a kiss to his cheek and opened the door for him, “Now scoot. Have a nice lunch.”
Kris’s smile was genuine when he kissed her cheek in return, “I will. I’ll see you later.”
He navigated his car through the Sunday afternoon traffic on Sunset Blvd., and through usual congestion in Westwood near UCLA. As he neared the restaurant, his phone buzzed indicating a text message. Kris glanced down, but the screen went dark, so he continued into the underground garage figuring he could check it once he parked.
Sorry, running a few minutes late. Be there soon
Kris had to chuckle, as he checked the time. Unless Adam just left his house or there was serious traffic, he’d probably be on time, but Kris thought it was kind of sweet that he’d let him know. After reaching the top of the escalator, Kris checked his phone for a signal so he could text Adam back.
No worries. Grabbing a table. Ask for John, manager, when you get here.
“Hey John,” Kris said greeting his buddy.
“Kris, hey. Long time no see,” John said coming around the hostess desk to embrace Kris in a hug. “How are you doing?”
“Good, good. How are you? How’s Julie?”
“Ugh,” John groaned. “I still hate LA, but Julie’s loving it more and more each day, so…”
Kris laughed and patted his shoulder, “Sorry.”
“I’ll deal.” John looked around. “Just you? I can clear out some space at the bar in the corner.”
“Actually, I need a table for two. Can I get a corner booth?”
“Sure, sure,” John said grabbing two menus and telling the hostess to cross out table 17. “Come on.”
“Oh, uh, I told my guest to ask for you when he comes in. Are you going to be up front or working the floor?”
“If your guest will be here shortly, I’ll be up front, but I’ll be around. Anyone I should be looking out for? I’ll tell Jackson to keep an eye out, too.”
“Well, um. He’s kinda, uh. You’ll recognize him, so if you could just sure he doesn’t get harassed or gawked at?”
John slowed down at the small set of stairs, “Watch your step, here,” and looked over his shoulder, “Really? You want to tell me something Kris?”
“Not really, but you’ll know him when he comes in.”
“Fine,” John replied. “Here you go, some semblance of privacy. You came in at this hour when it wouldn’t be as crowded, didn’t you.”
“Well, duh.”
John laughed, “Sneaky bastard.” He put the menus down. “This is Anna’s section, so I’ll send her up. You want anything to drink?”
“You still have Monkey Knife Fight?”
“Of course.”
“One of those, then, for now.”
“You got it.”
Kris checked his phone for the time, and to see if he missed any messages or calls. All quiet in the last five minutes. He reached over to grab the plates and napkin-wrapped utensils to set them out…and for something to do. He looked around the restaurant, only a few tables had diners. It was the lull between lunch and dinner, ideal for, hopefully, what would be a meeting that would give him closure.
**
Adam sat in his car and waited. Breathing in and out slowly, he flexed his fingers as he removed them from their death grip on the steering wheel. It would be fine. It was just a casual get-together with…a friend.
Except, that was the problem, wasn’t it? They weren’t friends, they weren’t exes. He didn’t know what they were, and he wanted that to change. Adam just didn’t know if Kris wanted the same thing, but he was hoping he did.
A stab of jealousy had burst his bubble of happiness at the fundraiser when he saw Kris smiling at a blond guy, then jealousy turned into anger when he realized it was Zach. It took everything he had, along with the steadying hands of Brad and Tommy that prevented him from running across the room and punching Zach’s face. It also helped that Kim Allen took him aside during the live auction and confided in him that she was rooting for them. What that meant, exactly, he didn’t know, but at this point, Adam would take any help he could get. He just needed to figure out what he wanted as the outcome of all this, from Kris.
Taking a final breath, grabbed the keys and wallet from the center console and stepped out of the car. Glancing around to make sure he remembered where he parked, he headed to the escalator.
Adam looked up warily as he saw giant screens above him with listed movie times and posters, while to his right a bookstore hawked its wares. As he drove by, he figured it was a part of a mall, but this was strange. He stepped into the bright area and looked around for the restaurant, spotting it to his left, its glossy wood entrance beckoning him into the darkened space.
He took off his sunglasses as he approached the hostess table-he really didn’t need to be that kind of douchebag-and smiled when he saw the double-take of the two people behind the table.
“Hi, welcome to Westside Tavern,” a tall man said as approached them. He held out his hand, “I’m John, you’re Kris’s friend right?”
Adam shook his hand and nodded, “Adam. Nice to meet you.”
John went behind the table and spoke softly to the hostesses, while Adam took the opportunity to take in the restaurant. It fitted Kris’s personality, he decided, unpretentious and comfortable without being crass or a dive.
“Sorry about that, Adam,” John said coming back to him. “Let me show you to your table. Did you want a drink?”
“Water for now is fine,” Adam answered. “This is nice.”
John grinned, “Yeah, we like it.” He paused, “Watch your step. And here we are.”
“Thanks, John.”
Adam took in the sight of Kris as he played with the neck of the beer bottle. Less than 36 hours, but seeing Kris again settled something in him.
“Hey Kris,” John said to Kris. “Delivered safe and sound.” He turned to Adam, “I’ll have Anna deliver your water, and she’ll be serving you today. And, of course, I’m here, if there’s anything else you guys need.”
Kris lifted his chin, “Thanks, John. Appreciate it.”
Adam slid into the booth across from Kris and smiled warmly. “Hey.”
“Hey.”
“I like this place.”
“Yeah, the food’s awesome and the people are great.”
“You come here a lot?”
“Enough.”
They stopped as a perky brunette waitress came up with their waters and a large platter of mixed appetizers, “Compliments of the kitchen,” she said. “I’ll give you some time to look over the menu.” She bounced back down the stairs.
“The sandwiches and burgers are good,” Kris said as he pushed a menu in front of Adam. His lips quirked a bit, “Can’t tell you about the salads.”
Adam chuckled as he studied the menu, “I do eat things other than rabbit food.” He put the menu down, “I think I’ll have the chicken sandwich.”
Kris raised his eyebrows and laughed, “Of course you will. Your trainer wouldn’t be happy if you splurged on a greasy burger and fries, huh?” He leaned over and whispered conspiringly, “I won’t tell if you won’t.”
Adam faltered. Was Kris teasing him? He sat back and laughed, “Fine. I’ll have the cheeseburger. And if it’s not all that you make it out to be, then what?”
“I’ll eat the rest of it, along with mine and we’ll order you the chicken sandwich as back-up so you don’t leave here hungry.”
“Fat chance of that,” Adam mumbled as he took a sip of water.
**
Just a little more, Part 8 ...is here...