Once again, Adam’s life was in disarray. Well, complete chaos was a better description. Here he was sitting in first class with his former married, in-the-closet john with his overzealous, barely out of her teens sidekick being rescued from a wanna be mobster. Just when he thought he had hit rock-bottom, another tumble lands him lower. Adam felt lost and accepted the fact that he had no self-preservation instincts whatsoever. However, blindly trusting Allison seemed careless at best and he definitely did not trust Kris at all. Adam decided to just take it moment by moment and withdraw into himself for the journey.
Upon arriving in LA, he and Allison said goodbye to Kris at the airport. Adam had expected Kris to make some kind of overture toward him but maybe the guy finally realized just how mad Adam still was about the lies. Allison took him directly to her house. Adam was pleased to see he had his own room and bathroom with decent counter space. He just hoped Allison understood he was 100% gay and not at all bi-curious. Adam was prepared for anything though because his life never seemed to go right. He unpacked and went down to the kitchen. Allison was feeding two rambunctious dogs.
“Hey, Adam, these are my babies. I hope you like dogs. They are very friendly and spoiled. How is your room?”
“Nice. You know I am completely gay, right?”
“Really? I figured I could change you after chaining you to my bed and making you my sex slave.”
“What!”
Allison laughed, “You are so funny, Adam. Believe me, you really don’t come off as a switch hitter. Maybe it’s the fabulous clothes but I recognize your preferences don’t include girls. Not that I would kick you out of bed but I get that you like cock so no expectations on my part. For the record, I think Kris is gay too. I think he just goes with girls because of his upbringing. After all he would never risk his career on a girl but he seems to be willing to do that for a guy.”
“Whatever, Kris is a total liar so why would he be honest about his sexuality. I don’t think I can ever trust him again.”
“Yeah, I agree he totally fucked up but despite appearances he really is that dumb rather than malicious. Anyway, maybe I can help you find another guy and we can find one for me too. Are all your friends gay?”
Adam was surprised Allison wasn’t supporting Kris more. He couldn’t help be suspicious that maybe she was in league with him, “So you think I should give up on him?”
“I thought you just said you had. Anyway, I think at the very least you need to play very, very hard to get so he appreciates you. I also think you need to get your life in order apart from Kris so that there isn’t all this unhealthy codependency.”
Adam looked down feeling like everyone could see what a fuck up he was. Allison laughed, “Don’t feel bad I think Kris is in worse shape than you. At least you recognize rock bottom while that boy is still spinning his wheels. Now, I want you to start having fun because you need to sing some peppy songs on my album.”
Adam smiled, “There really is an album?”
Allison smiled back, “You bet your ass and it is gonna be kick-ass.”
Adam and Allison spent the next couple weeks working everyday on songs. Adam gave her some vocal coaching that helped her to sing hard notes without straining. They were collaborating on some additional songs and even testing out a duet. Allison couldn’t guarantee what songs would make the cut since she wasn’t a top-seller nor an executive producer on the album. Adam was just happy to be busy and singing at all. He limited the time he spent with friends and family because they lectured him and always seemed to think he needed advice. Adam felt a little disappointed that Kris didn’t even bother to call him. Curious he asked Allison about it.
“Have you talked to Kris at all?”
Allison frowned, “Not really. He is out of town right now. I’m not sure where he went but sometimes when he gets depressed or confused he does charity work. He is probably in Zimbabwe or something. Anyway, you are not supposed to be thinking about him remember the plan?”
Adam wasn’t sure what Allison was referring too, “What plan was that?”
“The focus on Adam plan where you stop letting toxic people into your life and focus on making yourself happy and me successful. Speaking of which I had to fire my stylists can you sort of fill in for a while?”
Adam liked the idea since he loved to shop, accessorize and glamorize. Sure he preferred doing those things for himself but this would be fun and who knows maybe it could pan out to be a hidden talent. Feeling pretty good about things he forgot his resolve to avoid lectures and went to lunch with Brad.
Brad hugged him as soon as he arrived, “Adam I have been so worried I was going to read about you dead in a dumpster from some psychotic john. Based on the drama you have with legit jobs I was sure you wouldn’t last a week as a whore in Las Vegas. Yet, you made it.”
“Brad, I wasn’t a whore.”
“Sure, I get it ‘what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas’. Anyway, you’re here now and hopefully no longer turning tricks because that could be awkward since we were a couple at one point and I know a lot of people. Anyway, what are you going to do for work? My friend just became a manager at this really cool bar on Melrose maybe she has some openings for a bar-back or doorman.”
Adam decided to not bother correcting Brad on the whore thing since he wasn’t listening, “Actually, I am helping Allison Iraheta on her album and that seems to be full time for now. How is your boyfriend?”
Brad made a face which meant he was going to be stuck listening to Brad relay drama and whining. It seemed the theater had tried to replace Adam with another pretty boy and Brad had walked in on Jessie and the kid going at it backstage. “So apparently sleeping with the help is everyone’s MO there. Needless to say I dumped his ass. Can you believe he cheated on me?”
“You cheated on me.”
“Adam, that was a million years ago and I was a young still developing twink. Jessie is a grown man. Can you stop making this about you for a minute?”
Adam decided not to bite and just waited as Brad continued, “Anyway, since you insist on talking about you it looks like your boy decided the straight and narrow was for him after all. He and the little misses seem to be hiring photographers to follow them around because they are so boring no self-respecting paparrazi would follow them. I hear he was in Vancouver because his wife finally got a dumb part in a TV show. Think she is going to be a zombie or something on Supernatural.”
“Why do you even know all that?”
“Jessie told me before he cheated. Did I mention he cheated on me two days ago. If you weren’t so self-centered you might have noticed out disheveled and depressed I look.”
Adam hadn’t noticed because Brad was far too vain to ever be disheveled. Adam would concede that Brad’s shoes had some scuff marks but that was about it. Still rather than listen to more whining Adam conceded, “I am sorry. Is there anything I can do to help?”
“Yes, as a matter of fact there is something you can do. I have to go to a premier tonight and I need a date.”
“I don’t know any single guys.”
Brad made a face, “Adam, I need you to go because I want Jessie to think I was sleeping with you the whole time and just used him to get you into the play.”
“Isn’t that kind of petty? Why don’t you spend that time meeting someone new?”
Brad rolled his eyes, “You are the last person to give advice on relationships. Now let’s go pick out some nice clothes and make ourselves the hottest couple ever.”
Adam did not like the idea and really didn’t want anything to do with Kris Allen’s coworker but he knew Brad would continue to pester him so he caved in early. “Fine but we are only staying long enough for Jessie to see you and then we go.”
“Agreed. You need to touch up your roots.”
Adam spent the day with Brad primping and listening to Brad bitch. It was nice to not be pitied or have someone focus on his failures. Brad’s self absorbed narcissism finally had a plus side. They arrived at the premier at nine and it was a pretty fancy gathering. Adam had no idea what show or movie they were going to see but it was just nice to be out. They weren’t famous enough to walk the red carpet so they were able to hit the bar immediately. Adam did a couple shots of tequila to take the edge off and bolster his confidence.
Brad started hanging all over Adam and displaying some over the top PDA which signaled Jessie must be near. Brad kissed Adam passionately catching him off guard and almost resulting in a social catastrophe. After a bit of fumbling, Adam just relaxed and let Brad continue his charade. Brad broke off the kiss as Jessie came close, “Jessie, I didn’t realize you were coming tonight. Is Paul here or do you have to keep banging the talent on the down low?”
“Hello, Brad. Adam, I didn’t realize you were back I heard you were doing adult films in Las Vegas.”
What! “I was not doing films, I was singing in a lounge. How is the play doing?”
“The theater is doing much better since there isn’t a lot of drama any longer. Brad you made your point now why don’t you stop this act and let’s talk it out.”
“Jessie, I hate to break it to you but this is not an act. Adam is my soul mate and always has been the love of my life. You were the just a time passer. I was happy you slept with Paul because I was racking my brain trying to come up with a good excuse to dump you. Plus, Adam was getting impatient sharing.”
Jessie looked at Adam, “You and Brad are back together?”
Brad pushed Jessie, “what makes you think we ever really split? Adam needed a gig and you were directing a new show. You do the math.”
Jessie went from being annoyed to outright furious and decided to direct it toward Adam, “So not only do you mess with married men you also pimp out your boyfriend to land roles? Is there any level you won’t stoop to?”
Of course the music had to suddenly stop at that moment and Jessie’s voice was naturally loud. Add in the fact that he screamed the questions, Adam was pretty certain everyone was staring at them. Of course Brad seemed to think that was a good thing and a perfect opportunity, “It isn’t Adam’s fault you think with your cock. I am not sure why you are upset now you have full reign to fuck whatever moves without the inconvenience of sneaking around. Oh that’s right you are not supposed to sleep with people working for you. Not that your boss has room to talk or could call you out on it.”
Jessie still seemed to be focusing his anger at Adam, “I should have known you seduced Kris for him to fight for you to be in the play. Did you black mail him for the role?”
Adam decided to just walk away but apparently he underestimated Jessie’s anger and alpha male tendencies. Jessie swung at him and Adam found himself in the middle of a pathetic brawl. Brad trying to pull Jessie’s hair was not helping matters. Eventually some bouncers separated them and Adam noticed a surprised Kris and angry Katy looking on. Not good
*~*
Keeping away from Allison’s house was like an alcoholic avoiding a bar. He wanted to see Adam and at least find out how he was doing. Allison had told him to give Adam some time. Unfortunately, Katy found out that Adam was in town and was keeping Kris on a short leash. Katy was given a small part in the TV show supernatural. Kris wasn’t sure how she landed the part but it meant she would be filming in Vancouver. Kris was glad of a reprieve until Katy insisted he go.
“Kris, I supported your music career for years. The least you could do is come away for a week to support me.”
“Katy, we are supposed to be taking a break from one another.”
“Kristopher you had a break and ran away to Las Vegas to follow that manipulative whore. You are lucky the paps did not find out. He is back in town and I don’t trust you to not destroy your career and our marriage. Besides, what do you think would happen to Adam if your affair became public. Your fans would hate him and he would never make it in this town. He would hate you for destroying his only chance. If you really had feelings for him you wouldn’t sabotage him like that, now would you. Kris, I wish you would realize I am not the bad guy here.”
Although what Katy was saying sounded good…she was the enemy. She had caused Adam to run in the first place. Plus, he really wanted to divorce her so he could court Adam properly. Of course, there would still be the gay stigma, the chance his fans would turn away, his label would drop him and he would be a has-been before 30. Still, she was a significant obstacle. Kris had no choice but to go to Vancouver. Katy ignored him most of the time except when “Kris Allen’s wife” became useful. One of the writers liked his music so Katy was hoping to get written into another episode.
Kris found it amusing that Katy’s world debut consisted of her foaming at the mouth and then getting beheaded by Dean Winchester. Kris went on set and met most of the cast who were nice enough. One of the actresses invited them to a premier back in LA for her fiancé’s film that he co-directed. Of course Katy accepted for the both of them. After a week of Katy’s company on the set of supernatural he was convinced she was possessed and that nothing of the woman he married had remained. He was positive there could be no reconciliation so now it was just a question of damage control while filing for divorce.
Kris called Allison the day before they returned hoping Adam was settled and ready to see him, “Ali, how is Adam doing?”
“He is great. He has been helping me with songs and his vocal technique is incredible. I swear he taught me to sing another octave. How is the Canada? You should totally put the moves on Jensen Ackles he is far too pretty to be straight.”
“He is straight and he is married. Actually, the whole cast is cool. Katy is trying too hard to be chummy. I never thought she would get so fake.”
“She was always fake you were just too busy checking out men’s asses and hiding your gayness to notice. Anyway, when are you coming back? If you can act like a human maybe I will let you visit me and Adam in the studio.”
Kris was elated she was given him a reprieve from the “no contact” sentence, “I will be back tomorrow and will be on my best behavior. I promise.”
“Ok we are going to be recording Thursday all day so come by around 11 and maybe Adam will let you join us for lunch. However, NO DRAMA.”
“He is-“
“No blaming either. I swear if you so much as glare at him I am going to drag him away and you won’t see him again until you are too old to remember how to have sex.”
“Great. I will see you then.” Kris hung up feeling happier than he had all week. He said goodbye to everyone on set and listened to Katy bitch the whole time that she should have been the lead zombie. She also claimed that this would probably lead to other roles since she was so professional. Kris truly hoped she would make it so he could get rid of her. In fact, he agreed to go to the premier and really help her network which pleased her to no end.
Kris went to the party the next night and was committed to getting Katy some could leads. He was also very excited because it was Tuesday and he would be seeing Adam in less than 48 hours. Katy was being very sweet once she saw how hard Kris was working the crowd. Unfortunately, as usual luck was not on his side and he noticed a disturbance near the bar.
Katy was looking over and scowling, “I don’t believe it. Your trouble making whore is here and making out with another guy. He certainly didn’t waste any time replacing you. I told you he used you. Once again he is ruing my life. Do not so much as acknowledge him and embarrass me or so help me I will make him pay.”
Kris just stared at Katy wondering if her eyes would be black like the demons on Supernatural. Kris fought his urge to interfere when he saw Jessie push Adam. Kris knew if he went over Katy would make a scene so he stayed put. Kris noticed Brad was there pulling Jessie’s hair. The only thing Brad was accomplishing was making all of them look ridiculous and draw more attention to the scene. Luckily, Jessie seemed to lose his momentum once the bouncers held him back.
Brad on the other hand seemed more irate, “Stop embarrassing yourself, Adam will kick your ass because he loves me and always has. We never broke up you idiot.”
Kris felt his heart sink and Katy immediately jumped on that statement, “See that jerk already has a boyfriend. You almost lost your career and family over a player. We may as well leave before he tries to get 15 minutes of fame by embarrassing you.”
Kris was confused and upset. Part of him knew Adam was a player but part had believed there had been a connection. True Adam had been his lover because Kris paid him and gave him a role but still dating Brad definitely violated their deal. Kris became angry and without thought approached Adam, “You were with him the whole time?”
Adam looked at Kris but felt a shove and looked up at a red faced Brad, “Keep away from my man. You already fucked him over enough.”
Adam pulled Brad back, “Let’s go.” Kris watched as Adam ignored him and just guided Brad out of the club. Kris had his answer and felt heartbroken. Katy was probably pissed but must have decided to play it off and kissed Kris, “You can make it up to me by introducing yourself to the brunette girl over there. She is a casting director for Waking Dead.”
Kris just followed Katy and went through the motions. Is mind was pre-occupied with the thought that Adam was with Brad and perhaps had always been with him. Katy kept hm out until three in the morning and then headed back to their house. As soon as they got home Kris went into the spare room.
After a restless night, Kris woke up and did some radio interviews. Luckily, the DJs didn’t know about the night before and like everyone else assumed he was a boring married guy and focused on his music. Ali called him up at noon, “Are you coming or not dufus? Adam seems pretty tired so he might not be as feisty as usual.”
“I am not sure that is a good idea. It seems Adam has moved on or should I say never really moved past his other boyfriend. You should invite his lover, Brad to lunch”
Allison let out an aggravated growl, “Good idea because I really don’t need to deal with a toddler at lunch. Later.” Allison hung up on him. Even though it was only noon, Kris opened a beer hoping to drown his sorrows. By three o’clock he was three sheets to the wind and decided to drunk dial Adam from his home line.
Kris hoped Adam would answer since it would come up as a blocked number.
“Adam Lambert.”
“Do you love him?”
“Kris?”
“Just tell me the truth, do you love Brad?”
“Why should I tell you anything since you lie all the time? I thought you were separating from your wife or was that just another lie?”
“I want to divorce her but it is complicated. Were you with Brad the whole time?”
“I stuck to the agreement if that is what you are asking. I did not sleep with anyone while I was under your employ just like we agreed. Not that you deserve an explanation but Brad was trying to get at Jessie for cheating so he pretended we were together.”
Although still buzzing, that excuse sounded plausible and he wanted to believe it. I was supposed to come by the studio today to see you. I was looking forward to it and then last night happened and got jealous. I hate that I am such an idiot. I know you don’t believe me but I am not trying to play games with you I just don’t know what to do. I like you so much and I just keep fucking up.” Part of his brain was screaming for him to shut up but the alcohol was giving him diarrhea of the mouth. You know when I saw you that first day you auditioned I thought you were the most beautiful man I had ever seen. It wasn’t just that I wanted to try out being gay but more I wanted you. I read your file and heard about your past and thought just maybe I could use that to get you. I know that is fucked up and wrong. I took advantage of your misfortune but I really hoped it would be a win-win. Adam you are hot, talented, charismatic and way out of my league. I should have never let you think you gave me syphilis but I didn’t know what to do. Katy is my wife and I didn’t want anyone to know she was sleeping around on me.”
Kris took a deep breath and was relieved when Adam responded, “Were there other men? Katy said you had been with other men.”
“Adam, I have only been with you. Look, I know I have nothing to offer right now and I need to end things with Katy before I start something with anyone. I have no right to ask but is there any way we could go back to the way things were?”
“You mean you paying me for sex and you treating me like a shitty employee?”
“OK, maybe not exactly like that. How about just being friends for now and then when I divorce if you were still available we could maybe date.”
“Kris, my friends don’t lie to me. If we did become friends, you can’t try and manipulate me or treat me like a child. I may have made some bad choices but I don’t need you of all people to tell me how to live my life.”
Kris knew Adam had a valid point, “Fair enough. I will just tell Allison to tell you about bad decisions you are making.”
Kris smiled when he heard Adam laugh, “You really are an ass, Kris Allen.”
“Can I come by the studio tomorrow and maybe join you and Allison for lunch? I really want to hear about the album.”
Kris held his breath as Adam hesitated, “OK but you still have to earn my friendship.”
“I won’t let you down this time. I will come by around noon. See you then, friend.”
Kris hung up feeling elated. He wanted Adam as a lover, boyfriend and possibly partner but he would take friend for now. It was better than being the enemy. Kris knew he didn’t deserve another chance but he was glad Adam was a nice enough guy to give him one. Now all he had to do was not fuck it up.