ACCEPTANCE
Title: ACCEPTANCE
Series: A Year in the Life - January 2010
Date: Jan 18th - Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Author: cunningdeb
Rating: PG-13
Pairing: adam/kris, my Allen-Lambert family
Summary: Adam is humiliated in front of his daughter’s school and he and Kris have to deal with the aftermath - a loose interpretation of the message behind the day.
Warnings: homophobia, some violence, language, police stuff COULD BE TRIGGERING
Disclaimer: Pure fiction. I’m not pointing fingers at any particular group of people; it’s just a dramatic story.
EXPLANATION OF THE DAY - This is a wonderful holiday for families because it allows parents and teachers to discuss the valuable lessons of equality, compassion, understanding and discrimination to children of all ages.
I hope everyone likes it; I have never flip flopped so much on a story, constantly changing scenes and second guessing myself. Don’t know why it is, maybe the subject matter. Hope it doesn’t sound like an After School Special (if you remember those). Ah well, here it goes:
- - - - - - -
“Adam, telephone.”
“Thanks Gary. Adam Lambert speaking.”
“Oh Mr. Lambert, I’m sorry to disturb you at work but I’m in such a predicament!”
“Calm down, Mrs. Willowby. What’s the matter?”
“I was on my way to pick up Hannah at daycare and the car started breaking down on the freeway.”
“You alright? Are you on the shoulder?”
“No, no. I was actually able to pull into a parking lot before it quit.”
“Thank goodness. Is Joshua okay?”
“Ah, the dear angel has slept through all of this. AAA is on its way but I won’t be able to pick up Hannah and Mr. Allen can’t be reached.”
“Well, he’s out of town today anyway. I’m not far away; I’ll pick her up and bring her back here with me. She’s loves being on set - such a little diva!”
“Thank you sir; again I’m so sorry.”
“Don’t worry. You just take care of yourself and Joshua and we’ll see you tonight. Bye.”
Adam tossed the cell onto the make up table and got up.
“Sorry Ken, I have a little family emergency. I have to pick my daughter up at daycare; be back in an hour.”
Ken, his photographer, didn’t look happy but Adam gave him no choice. Ken said they’d find something to do without him until he got back. Adam grabbed his car keys and ran out to the parking lot.
He had been doing a high fashion photo shoot for a magazine and was glammed up to the hilt. Adam had no time to change so they were just going to have to take him as is. Hannah loved it when Adam played ‘dress up’; so did he! His husband Kris was the total opposite to him when it came to personal style but the music business was based on illusion and Adam was one of its top magicians.
Adam hoped he remembered how to get to the daycare. He hadn’t been there in nearly two months since he and Kris had the interview and Hannah was accepted. Mrs. Willowby, their nanny, dropped her off and picked her up nearly everyday. Kris had also been there several times but Adam had been in the middle of promotional tour when she registered and hadn’t had the opportunity to be back.
--*--
The daycare was located at a suburban elementary school in a conservative area of Los Angeles. It was a last minute decision to put Hannah in daycare; they decided she needed to be around children her own age and the daycare centers in their area of the Hollywood Hills had no openings. Not exactly the crowd Adam and Kris hung out with but they didn’t care; the world was made up of many kinds of people and they wanted their daughter to learn the joys of diversity.
Parents and caregivers were arriving in minivans and SUV’s, dressed in their understated daywear or in business attire. They milled around outside, chatting about the gym and dinner parties and the economy when a sleek silver sports car zoomed into the parking lot. Many heads turned as the flashy car, so different from their vehicles, pulled in but ALL heads turned when the driver got out.
They had never seen someone like him at the school before. His hair was spiked up on top and pulled back on the sides, his face was heavily painted with make up - women’s make up - his hands covered in rings and many necklaces hung around his neck, one of them strung through a padlock. He wore incredibly tight maroon pants with a matching jacket and under the jacket, he had on a shimmering tank top cut quite low. This peculiar stranger leaned against the car and looked around, eyes darting from side to side. He opened his cell phone up and held it out, as if he were taking pictures. His expression appeared threatening, as was his appearance. What could he be looking for in a school yard?
One concerned parent approached the Vice-Principal and pointed the stranger out. The VP spoke to another teacher who hurried into the school and then she approached the man cautiously.
--*--
Ah, there it was, finally. Adam had circumnavigated the neighborhood for so long, he was sure he’d be late. He pulled into an empty spot and shut off the car. Good thing he didn’t speed as he’d left his wallet at the studio; not exactly room in his pants to hold a wallet anyway. He looked at his reflection in the mirror. He look fabulous but the make up the stylist used on him was meant for dramatic lighting, not mid-afternoon sun. He looked at his watch. Good, Hannah would be out in a few minutes and then back to the studio for more make believe.
Adam got out of the car and looked at the gathering parental units. He didn’t know anyone and he had a feeling they wouldn’t be too receptive to him in his get up so he decided to stay at the car until his Sweetpea came out. He looked around the school yard, wondering which of the many doors Hannah would emerge from. He was holding his cell in his hand in case Mrs. Willowby called. He saw he had a text message. Adam opened the phone and tried to read the screen but the sun was casting a glare. He held it out at arm’s length and moved it around, trying to find some shade.
Clicking heels on concrete drew his attention and he looked down to see a middle-aged woman approaching him. She looked severe - would hate to be one of her students.
“May I help you?” she asked sternly, her lips pursed and staring at him over the top of her glasses. Charming.
“No thank you, I’m just here to pick up a child.”
“Is that so?”
“Yes ma’am, it is. Shouldn’t the children be dismissed by now?”
“You know what time the children are dismissed?”
“Of course I had to know when to be here. Really, are they coming out soon, I have plans.”
“You wait right here and I’ll see what’s keeping them.”
“Thank you.”
Okay, so she looked witchy but she wasn’t so bad…bark worse than her bite and all that.
--*--
The Vice Principal walked back into the school and was met by the school’s secretary. “Have all the teachers been told to keep their students in their rooms.”
“Yes, Ms Winters. Is there a problem?”
“There certainly is. Put the school in lock down and contact the police.” She looked out the front door at the pervert waiting for his prey. “Tell them we have a suspicious person on the property.”
--*--
Adam checked the time on his phone. The kids should have been released fifteen minutes ago. He noticed other parents looking at their watches. Something was wrong. In the distance, he heard sirens. Adam didn’t have a good feeling about this. His blue eyes searched the property - no smoke, no gangs, no weird characters hanging around. Maybe the police weren’t coming here. Maybe it was something going down in the neighborhood and the children were being kept in for their own protection.
Three police cars screeched into the school’s parking lot and stopped at the main door. That lady Adam had talked to came out and said something to the cops. She looked in his direction and then the police officers looked in his direction. She went back into the school, the waiting parents parted like the Dead Sea and three officers came his way, hands hovering over their holsters.
Oh shit!
“Excuse me, ah, son, can we help you with something?” The officer smiled but it wasn’t friendly.
“No thank you sir, I’m just here to pick up a child.”
“You are waiting for a child? I see.”
“Y-yes sir, my daughter, Hannah. She’s in daycare here.”
“You have a daughter?”
Adam didn’t like his tone and what he was insinuating. Adam straightened up, trying to look confident, not scared shitless. “Yes officer, I have a daughter. I want to take her home with me. Is there a problem?”
“Let’s talk about it down at the station.” He put his hand on Adam’s forearm and tried to shift him.
Adam looked out, seeing one of the police cars slowly heading their way. He yanked his arm away, taking a step back. “No, I’m getting my daughter and going home.” He tried to squelch the panic in his voice.
“I can’t let you do that.” The officer pulled out a set of steel handcuffs.
Adam kept backing up as the officers closed in on him. He turned to the crowd for help but they looked like a mob excitedly watching a hanging and the expressions on their faces told him point blank that they were on the cops’ side.
“No, no, you can’t make me! I haven’t done anything wrong! Why are you doing this?” The faces of children and their teachers watched his every move through the classroom windows. Adam’s radar zeroed in on one window, on the little curly blond head barely tall enough to reach the ledge.
“Hannah!”
Adam bolted for the school and suffered for his impulse. Within seconds he was tackled by a group of police officers and flipped on his stomach. His arms were yanked behind him and he felt the cold steel encircle his wrists and click shut. Rough hands then felt him up - officially called ‘patting down’ - but it was feeling him up, as if he’d stashed a gun in his crotch or up his ass. Adam wasn’t going to go quietly.
“What the fuck are you doing? I just want my daughter! I just want my daughter!”
He felt a knee press into his spine and a mocking voice replied, “Do you really expect us to believe a pervert like you has children?”
Adam usually let bigotry go but his nerves were so highly charged that he couldn’t stay still. He bucked and cursed them out, trying to get free.
“Shut up!” an officer ordered him.
“Fuck you! Let me go! I didn’t do anything! I didn’t do anything!”
“I said shut up and calm down!”
“No! Let me go! Let me go!”
Out of the corner of his eye, Adam saw one of the officers pull out a black handheld device. He recognized what it was immediately.
“Nonononono, don’t, don’t….AAARRGGHHHH….NO…..NO…..STOOOOP…..!” Electric bolts shot through his shoulder, down his arm and torso. His muscles spasmed like the world’s worst cramp. Adam had never felt such pain as they tasered him again. “PLEASE …. STOP …. NO…. AAARRRGGGHH!”
“Are you going to calm down or do I….”
“PLEASE…NO….I’M CALM….I’m calm,” Adam cried, his nerves on fire.
The device was removed from his body and he slumped onto the ground. Hands caught him under the armpits and hauled him up. As they dragged him to the police car, Adam turned his face once more to the crowd; the mob swam in front of his eyes. There was no compassion there, just hate.
“You have the right to remain silent….”
--*--
“Hello, Allen-Lambert residence.”
“Yes, hello. My name is Tina Hetherington and I’m calling from Green Tree Daycare. May I speak to Mr. Kris Allen or Mr. Adam Lambert.”
“Neither of them are home at present. I’m Mrs. Willowby, Hannah’s nanny. Is there a problem?”
“There certainly is. It is now 4:00pm, one hour after we close, and no one has come to pick Hannah up. This is highly irregular.”
Mrs. Willowby felt the blood drain from her face. She sat down with a plunk. “Oh dear, oh dear. I usually pick Hannah up but my car broke down on the way and I called her Papa to get her. I hope nothing has happened to him?”
“Could it be he forgot or became distracted?”
“Mr. Lambert? Heavens, no. He would never do something like this intentionally. I’ll be over as quickly as possible to fetch her. Thank you for calling.”
“I hope everything is alright.”
“So do I, so do I.”
--*--
The Mercedes pulled up to the front door and Kris got out. His business finished early and he couldn’t wait to get home to Adam and their family. Kris knew Adam had a fashion shoot that afternoon and was more than likely not back yet. Oh well, he’d enjoy a snack and settle in to watch Sesame Street with Hannah and Joshie.
He unlocked the front door and set his keys on the side table. “Hannah! Hannah? Daddy’s home. Where are you Sweetpea?”
There was no response, no noise - no laughing from Hannah, no humming from Mrs. Willowby, no crying from Joshie, no babble from a television. He searched the house and found it deserted. Ending up in the kitchen, he saw the red light flashing on their answering machine.
There were two messages. The first message was odd. Kris could hear sounds in the background, undistinguishable noise, but no voice, no message. The second message more than made up for the first one:
“You’ve reached the Allen-Lambert residence. Channel your inner diva and leave a clean message. Beep. --- Adam? Are you there? Answer me damn it!” the caller blared, forcing Kris to turn the volume down. “You said you’d be back in one hour! Where the hell are you? Do you realize I’ve had to cancel the shoot and reschedule again for tomorrow? I’m billing your record company the extra expense. You better have a damned good excuse for me tomorrow.” Click.
“What the hell was that about?” Kris asked himself; sounded like Adam got himself into some deep shit.
The front door opened and Hannah’s voice carried into the kitchen. Kris rushed out to see her.
“Daddy, you’re home!” she called, running to him for a hug. Kris caught her up in his arms and kissed her all over her face as Mrs. Willowby came in with the baby on her hip. The visible relief on her face startled him.
Kris set his daughter down and told her to go to her room and put away her things. She ran upstairs, bumping her backpack on the steps as she went. Kris took Joshie from the weary nanny and asked her quietly, in case Hannah was still in earshot, “Mrs. Willowby, what’s wrong?”
The older woman took Kris’ free hand in hers and held on for dear life. “Mr. Allen, I’m so glad you’re home….I think something dreadful has happened to Mr. Lambert.”
--*--
Immediately after arriving at the police station, Adam had been put in a holding cell. He would have been alone except for his own private watchdog who monitored his every move and kept checking his blood pressure and asking him how he felt. Apparently, it wouldn’t look good on them if he died after they shot his body full of electric volts. When he had calmed down a bit, Adam asked why he was being watched. He was told that since he’d acted out, they wanted to give him time to cool down; they also wanted to make sure he wasn’t going to be a danger to himself or to others. So now he was a lab rat and a potential psycho as well as a pervert.
At the time of his arrest, Adam didn’t know what their problem had been with him but as he sat in that cold cell, he replayed in his mind the conversation he’d had with that bitch and the police and to Adam, it sounded like they believed he was some kind of child molester. The thought made him physically ill. The attending officer wasn’t happy that his shoes got ruined.
Once he’d calmed down enough to their satisfaction, he was booked for resisting arrest. The school had yet to press any charges until the truth was determined but Adam hadn’t done himself any favors by flipping out. Sitting at a desk, he answered a list of personal questions, had his photograph and fingerprints taken and then they confiscated his personal belongings, placing them in a property bag. All he had was his jewelry - his wallet had been left at the studio and his cell phone had been left behind in the parking lot during the scuffle. His keys were with his car at the impound lot.
The worst part was when he was handed a horrendous grey inmates uniform and rubber sandals. An officer watched him as he stripped completely and changed. They took his clothes and asked if he wanted a facecloth and soap to wash his face. The officer suggested this was a good idea before he was placed near other inmates, if Adam caught his drift. Adam did and even though it left his face raw and feeling of sandpaper, he washed away the glam, hoping to blend into the crowd. That was the first time he had ever wished that.
Before going back to his cell, Adam got his one phone call. He really should have called his lawyer but all he could think about was home. He knew there was a chance no one would answer but he could leave a message. Adam called, got the machine and froze. What on earth was he going to say? ‘Hey baby, can you get me out of jail. They think you’re married to a child molester’? He couldn’t do it. He just hung up and decided to wait for the other shoe to fall. He knew they had no real evidence against him, just conjecture. The truth would come out and in the meantime, he would rather rot in jail then have his family know his shame.
--*--
Kris tried not to be worried. If something bad had happened, they would have heard right? After all, Adam had notoriety, Adam had his wallet, Adam had his cell phone, Adam would be identified.
No! Kris ordered himself not to go there. He’d wait another hour and then he’d panic.
Kris and Mrs. Willowby had a cup of coffee and then they panicked. Kris called everyone he knew and no one had heard from or seen Adam. He called back the photographer, only to learn very little, just that Adam left to pick up Hannah, said he’d be back in an hour and then he disappeared. Kris held off as long as he could but then he had to call the hospitals. He nearly choked on relief when they told him no one by that name had been admitted and no John Does had been brought in that matched Adam’s description.
Kris called the police and tried to report Adam as missing but was told a report couldn’t be filed until he was missing for 24 hours. They were no help at all!
Suddenly, he realized he hadn’t called the most obvious person - Adam himself. He dialed his husband’s cell. The phone rang three times and then was answered.
“Adam! Oh thank God,” Kris half laughed, half cried.
“Adam, oh thank God,” was parroted back at him.
“Adam?”
“Adam.” Kris heard laughing this time.
“What are you doing with Adam’s phone?” Kris was starting to freak out.
“What are you doing with Adam’s phone,” followed by more laughing. It sounded like kids.
“Where is he?” Kris shouted.
“Where is he.”
Kris slammed the phone down. Oh my God, oh my God….
“Daddy, when is Papa coming home?”
Hannah had slipped in unnoticed. Kris hoped she hadn’t overheard him. He swallowed his fear, cupped her cheek and tried to smile. “Soon Sweetpea; your Papa will be home soon.”
--*--
Adam huddled in the corner of his cell. He’d drawn his knees up to his chest and held tight, imagining he was holding onto Kris instead of his shaking legs. He had been moved to another cell where he still had his own space but only a wall of bars separated him from the other guests of the police. They couldn’t touch him but it didn’t stop the looks and the comments tossed his way.
An officer walked through the detention area, checking out the occupants. He stopped when he saw Adam on the floor.
“Why are you over there?” he asked.
Adam jerked his head in the direction of the man in the cell next door. The guy was a mess and sitting cross legged, staring at Adam. He was rubbing himself as he looked at Adam like he was fresh meat. The officer banged on the guy’s cell, yelling at him. The vagrant lay down and faced the wall.
“Thank you,” Adam offered seriously and calmly.
“You’re welcome. I can’t believe you’re still in here. I mean, well, considering who you are I figured you’d be gone by now.”
“I probably would be if I’d called my lawyer.”
“Why didn’t you?”
The young officer seemed really friendly and interested so Adam opened up a little. “I wanted to call home but when I got the machine, I couldn’t say anything, how could I tell th-them….” A tear ran down his cheek and Adam rubbed it away with his palm. He ran his hand through his hair and pulled his head down.
“Listen,” the officer said, “I can arrange for you to make another call. Just make sure it’s to your lawyer okay? You can deal with your family once you’re home.”
--*--
Four hours. It had been only four hours since he knew Adam was missing. Kris was going insane. Hannah was finishing her dinner with Mrs. Willowby and he was pacing around the family room, making a circular track from the family room to the front door and back again. He’d look out the windows framing the door, hoping to see Adam’s car drive up. So when he came back to the windows and witnessed a black car pull up to the house, he burst outside.
Kris recognized the suit that got out of the passenger seat. It was James Holloran, one of Sony’s lawyers. He opened the back door and rested one arm on the car’s roof and the other along the top of the door. He leaned in and talked to someone. Eventually, James backed away and Adam came out.
Kris took flight and caught his husband up in desperate hug. “Shit Adam, where have you been? We’ve been so worried.”
Adam didn’t return the hug. Kris backed up, still holding Adam’s arms and looked at him closely. He was dressed in his clothes from the fashion shoot but his hair was everywhere and his face wasstripped clean of make up. Kris could see every freckle and the dark circles under his eyes. “Sweetheart, what’s wrong?”
Adam couldn’t look Kris in the eyes. He turned at the hand holding out the property bag full of jewelry and grudgingly took it.
“Adam?” Kris asked again softly, touching Adam’s cheek and drawing his face towards him.
Adam opened his mouth, trying to speak. How could he….what would they think….he was so….. Adam just shook his head and whispered, “I, I can’t…please Kris…not yet.” With that, he moved away from his husband and ran into the house, disappearing up the stairs.
Kris mouth hung open. He turned to Adam’s lawyer and asked with his pained expression what happened.
“Adam was arrested at the school when he went to pick up Hannah.”
“What?”
“Apparently, the way he….looked drew some attention and some parents and the Vice Principal thpught he was a predator waiting to steal someone’s child.”
Kris didn’t know what to say. He felt a pain in his chest; his heart just broke.
“It’s all been cleared up. He was being charged with resisting arrest but when the truth came out, those charges were dropped. He’s had one hell of an afternoon.”
“So, you’re saying he won’t have a record.”
“He still has a clean slate as far as the police are concerned, and the school didn’t press charges but they didn’t seem to care what this has done to him emotionally.”
Kris looked to the house. “Thanks James, I really appreciate your help. I know Adam does too.”
“You better keep a close eye on him.”
“Why?”
“He’s in some pain. Those bastards tasered him.”
--*--
Kris quietly opened the door to their bedroom and peered in. Adam’s clothes were strewn on the floor and he was lying on top of the bed, facing away from the door, wearing his pajama bottoms and one of Kris’ shirts. Kris slipped in, picking up the garments and then headed to Adam’s side. Kris knelt down and reached out to touch Adam’s sleeping face but pulled back, realizing his husband was probably exhausted. Kris picked up a warm throw from the back of a chair and covered Adam. Kissing him on the forehead, Kris left, closing the door behind him.
Adam heard the click and grabbed a handful of blanket, bunching it up around his mouth. He began rolling back and forth, letting the tears fall as he sobbed.
--*--
Kris checked on the kids then told Mrs. Willowby he’d be in their gym if Adam needed him. He didn’t bother changing into the workout clothes they kept downstairs. He started lifting weights than switched to the punching bag. At first, he was methodical, creating a rhythm and then his rage at what had happened to his lover overwhelmed him and he pounded and pounded and pounded….
“THOSE BASTARDS! THOSE FUCKING BASTARDS! HOW COULD THEY DO THAT TO HIM! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK!!!”
He kept it up until he could no longer feel his hands.
--*--
The evening news finished and thankfully, there was no mention of what happened. Since Adam had come home, Kris had been checking the internet to see if the press had gotten wind of this but apparently Adam had a guardian angel because nothing was showing up. He went on the school’s website, to see if there was any report about the situation being resolved and there wasn’t. Kris decided to give them the benefit of the doubt and would look again tomorrow. If nothing showed up then, he would….
“Hey.”
Adam joined Kris on the couch and this time when his husband hugged him, Adam responded.
He looked at the television. “I have I become the new poster boy for Molesters Anonymous.”
“Adam, that’s not funny. And no, there hasn’t been anything on the news.”
“I know its not funny baby, but if I don’t joke about it, even a little bit, I’m going to fall apart.”
Kris stroked Adam’s jaw and kissed him. Adam’s body responded with a loud stomach rumble. Kris took his hand and they headed into the kitchen where Kris made Adam a cold roast beef sandwich.
“Are you ready to talk about it?” Kris cautiously asked, taking out two slices of whole wheat bread.
“No, but I will.”
“What happened Adam?”
“ ‘I’ happened apparently. I went to pick up our little girl and they thought I was a pervert.”
“Did they talk to you?”
“Uh huh. I told them I was there to pick up my daughter and somehow that translated into ‘I’m here to molest your children’. I’m waiting in the parking lot, minding my own business then the police show up and want to take me in for questioning.”
“Why did they taser you?”
“I kind of flipped out, refused to go quietly. Those faces, Kris, all those faces staring at me, accusing me.” His voice started quivering. “I saw, I saw Hannah in a window, watching me and I screamed out her name and ran towards her. That’s when they tackled me and I wouldn’t be quiet….oh my God, Kris, Hannah watched me be arrested, she, our little girl saw them zap her Papa…oh my God….” and the tears of shame returned.
Kris hurried around the island and took Adam by the shoulders, shaking him a little. “Adam, listen to me, it wasn’t Hannah….Hannah didn’t see anything.”
“I, I saw her Kris, in, in the window.”
“No lover, it wasn’t her, believe me. Hannah’s daycare is on the other side of the school, it doesn’t face the parking lot. She didn’t see anything sweetheart; she didn’t see her Papa being hurt.”
Adam hiccupped and wiped his cheeks. “You’re sure?”
Kris kissed him. “I’m positive. She doesn’t know anything about what happened.”
“Thank Ra for that.” His voice was weary and Kris knew Adam needed a little TLC more than a sandwich.
Without a word, they headed upstairs. Adam had a quick shower, figuratively washing away his ordeal, and then climbed into bed where Kris was waiting for him. They spooned, Kris laying his body over Adam’s. Kris saw a red mark on the crook of Adam’s neck and he kissed it gingerly; that must have been where the taser made contact. Kris hummed a soothing song in Adam’s ear and soon the older man fell asleep. Kris tried to sleep; he should have been able to sleep but while he had been able to alleviate some of Adam’s fears, Kris still had too many question running through his brain.
Tomorrow, he was going to get answers.
--*--
The next morning, Adam and Kris tried really hard to be normal, for Hannah’s sake. They’d had a bit of a heated discussion before coming down to breakfast; Adam didn’t want their daughter going back to that school of hate mongers and Kris pointed out that it was too soon to go to that extreme. He told Adam he planned on taking Hannah to school himself and he was going to talk to the Principal and get the matter taken care of to their satisfaction. Adam insisted on going with him and Kris said that wouldn’t be a good idea; thankfully, Adam had received a call from his management telling him he better show up at the rescheduled photo shoot or the magazine was going to sue for breach of contract. Kris was a little relieved and tried to hide it but Adam knew and resented it.
Adam knew Kris understood what he was feeling but Kris didn’t faced the same level of discrimination that Adam faced. Kris was gay but he looked like and conducted himself like a good ‘ol Southern boy, wholesome and clean cut. Unless he came out and said he was gay, no one suspected. Adam, however, had never been that simple. He wore his sexuality as a badge of honor and as a result, he tended to face more outward displays of hate. But what happened yesterday was different. Adam could handle anything but being accused of hurting children? The fact that someone believed he was even capable of such sick behavior filled him with rage. He wanted to lash out and that was something he had never done before; he’d thought about it but this time, he physically wanted to do it.
He kissed Hannah goodbye as well as Kris, but it was on his cheek and not affectionate at all. Before Kris could even attempt to return the gesture, Adam was climbing into the taxi that awaited him; he had to get his car out of the impound lot.
--*--
Kris dropped Hannah off at daycare and headed straight for the front office. The school secretary was busy with paperwork and didn’t notice Kris standing there until he cleared his throat.
“Yes, may I help you?”
“I’d like to talk to the Principal please.”
“I’m sorry but he’s away at a conference until the end of the week. Our Vice Principal is overseeing the school. Would you like to talk to Ms. Winters instead?”
This was too perfect - direct access to the viper’s den.
“That would be wonderful, thank you.”
“Your name?”
“Kristopher Allen.”
She smiled and called the VP. “Ms. Winters, there is a Mr. Kristopher Allen here to see you.”
“Allen, Allen…that name sounds familiar. Just one minute.” She put the call on hold and rummaged through the files on her desk. She had seen that name somewhere. Ah ha. It was student’s file - Allen-Lambert, Hannah. Lambert? Oh no. She flipped the file open, looking at the personal information. Parents: Kristopher Allen, Adam Lambert.
“Um, yes. Please tell Mr. Allen that I have a busy schedule this morning and I can’t possibly fit him in.”
“Yes, Ms. Winters.” She covered the receiver and spoke to Kris. “I’m sorry, her morning is full and she won’t be able to see you….”
“That’s fine, I’ll wait. My entire day is free.”
“I don’t think that will be necessary. You could reschedule for next week when Mr. Campbell is back.”
“I think it is necessary. Ms. Winters is exactly the person I wish to speak with. I’ll just take a seat in the hall and wait. Thank you.” Kris flashed a disarming smile and took up his post outside the VP’s door. He’d have a clear view of her office and the main office so unless she went out the window she wasn’t going to get past him.
Nervously, she reconnected the call. “Mr. Allen says he will wait.”
“Didn’t you tell him I’d be busy all morning?” There was panic in her voice.
“Yes I did but he said his entire day was free. He’ll wait.”
“Fine. If he leaves, let me know.”
“Yes Ms. Winters.”
The secretary hung up and smiled. This was going to be a wonderful day, watching the old witch get her comeuppance for accusing Mr. Lambert of such outrageous behavior. Humming to herself, she stuck her head out into the hallway.
“Mr. Allen, can I get you anything? A coffee, a magazine, a cushion?”
“I’m fine thanks.”
“If you change your mind, let me know. I’m always ready to help.”
--*--
Adam’s foul mood worked to his advantage at the photo shoot. They had almost been finished yesterday when Adam left so today involved only one fashion change. He was supposed to be channeling anger and he did it so well, he frightened a few of the interns. As soon as the last frame was taken, he quickly changed, apologized once more for the inconvenience he caused, and got the hell out of there.
He went for a drive along the coast and pulled over at a secluded beach; he wasn’t ready yet to go home and face Kris. He felt like such a prick for taking his anger out on his beautiful husband. The only thing Kris was guilty of was fairness. He may have been right, it could have just been a colossal misunderstanding but in his heart, Adam didn’t think it was. He’d seen that look on many faces and he knew what was behind it. Adam really didn’t want Hannah in that school anymore. He rehearsed his next conversation with Kris; he’d stay focused and have all his points and counterpoints prepared. Kris just had to understand.
--*--
“Mr. Allen?”
Kris jerked his head up; he’d dozed off. “Um, yes.”
“I’m going out for lunch. Would you like be to pick you up anything?”
He looked at his watch. “Noon already?” He looked towards the VP’s office. “Has she…”
“No, not yet. I think you have her running scared.”
“She should be.” Kris looked up at her and smiled. “Can I ask why you seem to be enjoying this so much?”
She looked around then sat down beside him. She kept her voice low. “I am so sorry for what happened yesterday. I was inside and if I’d seen it, I would have stopped it. I’m a big fan of Mr. Lambert’s.” Kris’s smile widened. “You know, if she manages to avoid you all afternoon, you can file an official complaint with the school board. I shouldn’t be telling you this, but she already has two strikes against her for past incidents. One more and she’s out.”
“I appreciate your candor but I’m not looking to get her fired. I just want her to make an official apology to Adam. This has been horrible for him.”
“How is he, if you don’t mind my asking?”
“Angry, humiliated, ashamed.” Kris looked up and saw a middle aged woman trying to sneak out through the office. “Is that her?”
The secretary nodded. Kris got up and met Ms. Winters at the exit. “Finally, your schedule opened up. Let’s have a chat.”
--*--
Adam got home around 1:00pm. Kris’ car wasn’t in the courtyard or the garage. Adam went to the kitchen to grab some lunch. There was note from Mrs. Willowby saying she’d gone out for a hair appointment but would be finished in time to pick up Hannah. She’d also taken Joshua with her.
He hadn’t had any breakfast that morning and found in the fridge the untouched roast beef sandwich Kris had made for him last night. He poured himself some milk and just as he opened is mouth to take a bite, the phone rang. Adam checked the caller ID. Oh no, not again.
“Hello, Allen-Lambert residence.”
“Hello. Am I speaking to Mr. Allen or Mr. Lambert?
“This is Adam Lambert. Can I help you?”
“I calling to let you know there’s been an incident at daycare regarding Hannah.”
“Hannah? What the hell happened?”
“She got into a fight with another child and I think it would be a good idea if she went home early.”
“Is she hurt?”
“No, but she’s very upset. Can someone pick her up please?”
“I’ll be right there.”
--*--
Adam arrived at his daughter’s daycare room and all his anger faded away at the sight of his little girl sitting at a table by herself, sniffling and wiping her eyes. There was a little boy at another table and he looked just as miserable. Between them sat a teacher. She looked up at Adam and nodded.
“Hannah, your father is here.”
She turned around, her eyes red and puffy. She usually called his name and jumped in her arms but her bottom lip was quivering and she stayed where she was, looking afraid. Adam smiled and knelt beside her, opening his arms. The climbed into his lap and cried.
Adam rocked her. “Shhh, shhh baby, its okay, its okay. Hannah, Sweetpea, look at me.”
She looked up at her Papa and he thumbed away her tears. He smiled and asked, “What happened Hannah? You can tell me, I won’t get mad.”
Hannah pointed at the other child. “Jason said mean things.”
“What did he say?”
“He said mean things about you.”
Jason’s eyes got huge as Hannah’s Papa looked at him but Adam didn’t say anything, instead turning his attention back to his daughter. “What did he say?”
“He said that you were a bad man and that you hurt little children. He said you were a fig.”
“Fag?”
“Uh huh. And that you were going down there.” She pointed to the ground, her way of saying ‘hell’ without saying it.
Adam looked at the little boy again. He turned to the teacher. “May I speak with him? I promise, I won’t yell or scare him.”
She looked uncertain but let him. This was obviously a topic she was uncomfortable dealing with.
“Jason, where did you hear these things?”
The little boy looked anxiously at his teacher. “It’s alright Jason, answer Mr. Lambert’s question.”
“I, I heard my mommy tell my daddy.”
Of course; it seems to always come down to the parents.
“Do you understand what your mommy was taking about? Do you know why she might say those things about me?”
Jason shook his head.
Adam lifted Hannah up and he folded his long frame into a little chair, bringing the two children together.
“She said those things because something happened yesterday. Some people thought I was going to hurt your friends because of the way I looked.”
Jason looked Adam up and down.
“You don’t look funny.”
Adam smiled as he was dressed casually and make up free. “Thank you Jason. But yesterday, I had been at work and for my job I get to play dress up.”
“Cool!”
“Way cool! I was dressed differently from the other parents and someone thought it meant I was bad.”
“Just because you look different doesn’t mean your bad,” Jason said matter of factly.
Nodding, Adam replied, “You’re right. When you think badly about someone because they look different, it’s called discrimination. Big word huh?” Jason agreed and scooted his chair closer to Adam. “Imagine if the world was full of only Hannahs or only Jasons.”
“That would be really boring,” Hannah commented.
“It would be awfully cute but it would be boring wouldn’t it. Being different is good, its fun and when things are different, we have to learn to live together, to understand different ways of doing things. When someone is treated badly, we need to feel compassion for them; we need to care about their feelings. Hannah, Jason, can you understand why it wasn’t a good idea to fight?”
“Because…it can hurt?” Jason offered.
Adam smiled. “And?”
“Fighting makes more fighting,” Hannah added.
“Right. So what should you do when you and a friend disagree?”
“We should talk,” Hannah and Jason said together.
“What about shouting?”
“No, just talk.”
“Great. Now,” Adam said, setting his daughter on her feet and gesturing for Jason to stand up, “you two need to talk.”
“Hannah, I’m sorry I said those things about your Papa. Mr. Lambert, I’m sorry I said those things.”
“And I’m sorry I started this in the first place,” came a familiar voice from behind him. Adam looked to the door and saw Ms. Winters standing there with Kris. “I owe you a huge apology Mr. Lambert. It was wrong of me to assume anything about you just because you stood out.”
Kris could have looked smug, being right that it would have been premature to take Hannah out of the school, but he didn’t. He looked proud of his husband.
“How much of this did you hear?” Adam asked the odd couple.
“Enough to convince me that we need to add tolerance training to the curriculum,” Ms. Winters replied, “and I’ll be the first to sign up. Please accept my apology.”
Adam walked up to her and offered his hand. “Apology accepted.”
“Thank you.”
“And I owe you an apology too,” came another voice. Kris stepped aside and another parent came into the room.
Jason ran to her, hugging her legs. “Mommy, you shouldn’t have said those things about Hannah’s Papa. It hurt his feelings.”
She rubbed her son’s back. “Yes Jason, I realize that now.” She looked up at Adam, her face red. “I heard everything you said. Thank you for not being mad at him; I’m the one you should be mad at. How will my son learn to be a good person if I don’t teach him how?”
“I was mad…very mad…but this little chat has also taught me to practice what I preach. Let’s just agree it won’t happen again.”
“It won’t, I promise…and if I hear anyone else talking out of turn, I’ll set them straight too.”
“Well, since you’re both here, you can take the children home if you like,” the teacher offered after letting out a sigh of relief.
“I wanna stay and play with Hannah!”
“I wanna stay and pay with Jason!”
“Do you mind if I stay?” Jason’s mom asked the teacher.
“Feel free. Mr. Allen, Mr. Lambert, would you like stay or do you want to take your daughter home?”
Kris took Adam’s hand and squeezed. “If it’s alright with you, we’ll come back and pick her up at dismissal time.”
They each kissed Hannah and headed down the hall.
“Kris, where are going?”
Kris placed his hand on the small of Adam’s back. “We’re going to have our own peace talks.”
--*--
Kris sat on the swing and slowly swayed as Adam sat on the bottom of the slide.
“Do you remember when you were a kid and you had all these earth shattering questions and you knew that your parents could give you the answers?” Kris asked, taking in the empty schoolyard.
“Yeah; I used to think my dad was the smartest person on earth, next to my mom.”
“Same here.” Kris stopped moving, planting his feet firmly on the ground. “Now that I’m an adult, though, I realize I still don’t know anything. Adam, I’m sorry if you think I was trivializing your feelings this morning; I didn’t mean to, really. You know I always try and find the good in people and maybe I just didn’t want to see how hateful the world can be. You had been treated horribly and I should have had your back. If you still want to pull Hannah out of this school, then I’m with you. However, running away from it isn’t going to make it go away.”
Adam leaned back on the slide, resting his head on his arm. “I shouldn’t have taken my anger out on you. You do have my back, we just see the bigger picture differently. You wanted to talk it out and I wanted to punch it out.”
Kris snorted. “We aren’t so different you know. Last night, when you were lying down, I went to our gym and beat the crap out of the punching bag. I screamed my head off, cursing all those people who stood by and let you be treated like that.”
“That probably cleared your head, helped you to think rationally. I’ve held it in and if I hadn’t been called here today, I really don’t know what I would have done. Something very, very stupid I’m sure.”
“What changed?”
“Seeing Hannah and Jason being affected by hate. I explained compassion, equality and understanding to them and in the process, I think I had a more profound effect on myself. ‘Fighting makes more fighting’ - out of the mouths of babes right?”
Kris hopped off his swing and straddled his husband on the slide and kissed his nose.
“Kris! Are you trying to get me arrested again?” Adam laughed.
“No, I just wanted to remind you that when we work together - no matter what we’re doing,” he explained, raising an eyebrow as he did, “ - we are unstoppable. Let’s talk things out next time and between the two of us, maybe we can become as smart as our parents.”
“Or we can just call them to handle our problems again.”
“Nah, I like being my own man.”
“I like you as my own man too.”
The recess bell rang and hordes of children ran towards the playground equipment. Kris and Adam quickly split and headed back to daycare. They suddenly had an urge for a tea party.
Series: A Year in the Life - January 2010
Date: Jan 18th - Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Author: cunningdeb
Rating: PG-13
Pairing: adam/kris, my Allen-Lambert family
Summary: Adam is humiliated in front of his daughter’s school and he and Kris have to deal with the aftermath - a loose interpretation of the message behind the day.
Warnings: homophobia, some violence, language, police stuff COULD BE TRIGGERING
Disclaimer: Pure fiction. I’m not pointing fingers at any particular group of people; it’s just a dramatic story.
EXPLANATION OF THE DAY - This is a wonderful holiday for families because it allows parents and teachers to discuss the valuable lessons of equality, compassion, understanding and discrimination to children of all ages.
I hope everyone likes it; I have never flip flopped so much on a story, constantly changing scenes and second guessing myself. Don’t know why it is, maybe the subject matter. Hope it doesn’t sound like an After School Special (if you remember those). Ah well, here it goes:
- - - - - - -
“Adam, telephone.”
“Thanks Gary. Adam Lambert speaking.”
“Oh Mr. Lambert, I’m sorry to disturb you at work but I’m in such a predicament!”
“Calm down, Mrs. Willowby. What’s the matter?”
“I was on my way to pick up Hannah at daycare and the car started breaking down on the freeway.”
“You alright? Are you on the shoulder?”
“No, no. I was actually able to pull into a parking lot before it quit.”
“Thank goodness. Is Joshua okay?”
“Ah, the dear angel has slept through all of this. AAA is on its way but I won’t be able to pick up Hannah and Mr. Allen can’t be reached.”
“Well, he’s out of town today anyway. I’m not far away; I’ll pick her up and bring her back here with me. She’s loves being on set - such a little diva!”
“Thank you sir; again I’m so sorry.”
“Don’t worry. You just take care of yourself and Joshua and we’ll see you tonight. Bye.”
Adam tossed the cell onto the make up table and got up.
“Sorry Ken, I have a little family emergency. I have to pick my daughter up at daycare; be back in an hour.”
Ken, his photographer, didn’t look happy but Adam gave him no choice. Ken said they’d find something to do without him until he got back. Adam grabbed his car keys and ran out to the parking lot.
He had been doing a high fashion photo shoot for a magazine and was glammed up to the hilt. Adam had no time to change so they were just going to have to take him as is. Hannah loved it when Adam played ‘dress up’; so did he! His husband Kris was the total opposite to him when it came to personal style but the music business was based on illusion and Adam was one of its top magicians.
Adam hoped he remembered how to get to the daycare. He hadn’t been there in nearly two months since he and Kris had the interview and Hannah was accepted. Mrs. Willowby, their nanny, dropped her off and picked her up nearly everyday. Kris had also been there several times but Adam had been in the middle of promotional tour when she registered and hadn’t had the opportunity to be back.
--*--
The daycare was located at a suburban elementary school in a conservative area of Los Angeles. It was a last minute decision to put Hannah in daycare; they decided she needed to be around children her own age and the daycare centers in their area of the Hollywood Hills had no openings. Not exactly the crowd Adam and Kris hung out with but they didn’t care; the world was made up of many kinds of people and they wanted their daughter to learn the joys of diversity.
Parents and caregivers were arriving in minivans and SUV’s, dressed in their understated daywear or in business attire. They milled around outside, chatting about the gym and dinner parties and the economy when a sleek silver sports car zoomed into the parking lot. Many heads turned as the flashy car, so different from their vehicles, pulled in but ALL heads turned when the driver got out.
They had never seen someone like him at the school before. His hair was spiked up on top and pulled back on the sides, his face was heavily painted with make up - women’s make up - his hands covered in rings and many necklaces hung around his neck, one of them strung through a padlock. He wore incredibly tight maroon pants with a matching jacket and under the jacket, he had on a shimmering tank top cut quite low. This peculiar stranger leaned against the car and looked around, eyes darting from side to side. He opened his cell phone up and held it out, as if he were taking pictures. His expression appeared threatening, as was his appearance. What could he be looking for in a school yard?
One concerned parent approached the Vice-Principal and pointed the stranger out. The VP spoke to another teacher who hurried into the school and then she approached the man cautiously.
--*--
Ah, there it was, finally. Adam had circumnavigated the neighborhood for so long, he was sure he’d be late. He pulled into an empty spot and shut off the car. Good thing he didn’t speed as he’d left his wallet at the studio; not exactly room in his pants to hold a wallet anyway. He looked at his reflection in the mirror. He look fabulous but the make up the stylist used on him was meant for dramatic lighting, not mid-afternoon sun. He looked at his watch. Good, Hannah would be out in a few minutes and then back to the studio for more make believe.
Adam got out of the car and looked at the gathering parental units. He didn’t know anyone and he had a feeling they wouldn’t be too receptive to him in his get up so he decided to stay at the car until his Sweetpea came out. He looked around the school yard, wondering which of the many doors Hannah would emerge from. He was holding his cell in his hand in case Mrs. Willowby called. He saw he had a text message. Adam opened the phone and tried to read the screen but the sun was casting a glare. He held it out at arm’s length and moved it around, trying to find some shade.
Clicking heels on concrete drew his attention and he looked down to see a middle-aged woman approaching him. She looked severe - would hate to be one of her students.
“May I help you?” she asked sternly, her lips pursed and staring at him over the top of her glasses. Charming.
“No thank you, I’m just here to pick up a child.”
“Is that so?”
“Yes ma’am, it is. Shouldn’t the children be dismissed by now?”
“You know what time the children are dismissed?”
“Of course I had to know when to be here. Really, are they coming out soon, I have plans.”
“You wait right here and I’ll see what’s keeping them.”
“Thank you.”
Okay, so she looked witchy but she wasn’t so bad…bark worse than her bite and all that.
--*--
The Vice Principal walked back into the school and was met by the school’s secretary. “Have all the teachers been told to keep their students in their rooms.”
“Yes, Ms Winters. Is there a problem?”
“There certainly is. Put the school in lock down and contact the police.” She looked out the front door at the pervert waiting for his prey. “Tell them we have a suspicious person on the property.”
--*--
Adam checked the time on his phone. The kids should have been released fifteen minutes ago. He noticed other parents looking at their watches. Something was wrong. In the distance, he heard sirens. Adam didn’t have a good feeling about this. His blue eyes searched the property - no smoke, no gangs, no weird characters hanging around. Maybe the police weren’t coming here. Maybe it was something going down in the neighborhood and the children were being kept in for their own protection.
Three police cars screeched into the school’s parking lot and stopped at the main door. That lady Adam had talked to came out and said something to the cops. She looked in his direction and then the police officers looked in his direction. She went back into the school, the waiting parents parted like the Dead Sea and three officers came his way, hands hovering over their holsters.
Oh shit!
“Excuse me, ah, son, can we help you with something?” The officer smiled but it wasn’t friendly.
“No thank you sir, I’m just here to pick up a child.”
“You are waiting for a child? I see.”
“Y-yes sir, my daughter, Hannah. She’s in daycare here.”
“You have a daughter?”
Adam didn’t like his tone and what he was insinuating. Adam straightened up, trying to look confident, not scared shitless. “Yes officer, I have a daughter. I want to take her home with me. Is there a problem?”
“Let’s talk about it down at the station.” He put his hand on Adam’s forearm and tried to shift him.
Adam looked out, seeing one of the police cars slowly heading their way. He yanked his arm away, taking a step back. “No, I’m getting my daughter and going home.” He tried to squelch the panic in his voice.
“I can’t let you do that.” The officer pulled out a set of steel handcuffs.
Adam kept backing up as the officers closed in on him. He turned to the crowd for help but they looked like a mob excitedly watching a hanging and the expressions on their faces told him point blank that they were on the cops’ side.
“No, no, you can’t make me! I haven’t done anything wrong! Why are you doing this?” The faces of children and their teachers watched his every move through the classroom windows. Adam’s radar zeroed in on one window, on the little curly blond head barely tall enough to reach the ledge.
“Hannah!”
Adam bolted for the school and suffered for his impulse. Within seconds he was tackled by a group of police officers and flipped on his stomach. His arms were yanked behind him and he felt the cold steel encircle his wrists and click shut. Rough hands then felt him up - officially called ‘patting down’ - but it was feeling him up, as if he’d stashed a gun in his crotch or up his ass. Adam wasn’t going to go quietly.
“What the fuck are you doing? I just want my daughter! I just want my daughter!”
He felt a knee press into his spine and a mocking voice replied, “Do you really expect us to believe a pervert like you has children?”
Adam usually let bigotry go but his nerves were so highly charged that he couldn’t stay still. He bucked and cursed them out, trying to get free.
“Shut up!” an officer ordered him.
“Fuck you! Let me go! I didn’t do anything! I didn’t do anything!”
“I said shut up and calm down!”
“No! Let me go! Let me go!”
Out of the corner of his eye, Adam saw one of the officers pull out a black handheld device. He recognized what it was immediately.
“Nonononono, don’t, don’t….AAARRGGHHHH….NO…..NO…..STOOOOP…..!” Electric bolts shot through his shoulder, down his arm and torso. His muscles spasmed like the world’s worst cramp. Adam had never felt such pain as they tasered him again. “PLEASE …. STOP …. NO…. AAARRRGGGHH!”
“Are you going to calm down or do I….”
“PLEASE…NO….I’M CALM….I’m calm,” Adam cried, his nerves on fire.
The device was removed from his body and he slumped onto the ground. Hands caught him under the armpits and hauled him up. As they dragged him to the police car, Adam turned his face once more to the crowd; the mob swam in front of his eyes. There was no compassion there, just hate.
“You have the right to remain silent….”
--*--
“Hello, Allen-Lambert residence.”
“Yes, hello. My name is Tina Hetherington and I’m calling from Green Tree Daycare. May I speak to Mr. Kris Allen or Mr. Adam Lambert.”
“Neither of them are home at present. I’m Mrs. Willowby, Hannah’s nanny. Is there a problem?”
“There certainly is. It is now 4:00pm, one hour after we close, and no one has come to pick Hannah up. This is highly irregular.”
Mrs. Willowby felt the blood drain from her face. She sat down with a plunk. “Oh dear, oh dear. I usually pick Hannah up but my car broke down on the way and I called her Papa to get her. I hope nothing has happened to him?”
“Could it be he forgot or became distracted?”
“Mr. Lambert? Heavens, no. He would never do something like this intentionally. I’ll be over as quickly as possible to fetch her. Thank you for calling.”
“I hope everything is alright.”
“So do I, so do I.”
--*--
The Mercedes pulled up to the front door and Kris got out. His business finished early and he couldn’t wait to get home to Adam and their family. Kris knew Adam had a fashion shoot that afternoon and was more than likely not back yet. Oh well, he’d enjoy a snack and settle in to watch Sesame Street with Hannah and Joshie.
He unlocked the front door and set his keys on the side table. “Hannah! Hannah? Daddy’s home. Where are you Sweetpea?”
There was no response, no noise - no laughing from Hannah, no humming from Mrs. Willowby, no crying from Joshie, no babble from a television. He searched the house and found it deserted. Ending up in the kitchen, he saw the red light flashing on their answering machine.
There were two messages. The first message was odd. Kris could hear sounds in the background, undistinguishable noise, but no voice, no message. The second message more than made up for the first one:
“You’ve reached the Allen-Lambert residence. Channel your inner diva and leave a clean message. Beep. --- Adam? Are you there? Answer me damn it!” the caller blared, forcing Kris to turn the volume down. “You said you’d be back in one hour! Where the hell are you? Do you realize I’ve had to cancel the shoot and reschedule again for tomorrow? I’m billing your record company the extra expense. You better have a damned good excuse for me tomorrow.” Click.
“What the hell was that about?” Kris asked himself; sounded like Adam got himself into some deep shit.
The front door opened and Hannah’s voice carried into the kitchen. Kris rushed out to see her.
“Daddy, you’re home!” she called, running to him for a hug. Kris caught her up in his arms and kissed her all over her face as Mrs. Willowby came in with the baby on her hip. The visible relief on her face startled him.
Kris set his daughter down and told her to go to her room and put away her things. She ran upstairs, bumping her backpack on the steps as she went. Kris took Joshie from the weary nanny and asked her quietly, in case Hannah was still in earshot, “Mrs. Willowby, what’s wrong?”
The older woman took Kris’ free hand in hers and held on for dear life. “Mr. Allen, I’m so glad you’re home….I think something dreadful has happened to Mr. Lambert.”
--*--
Immediately after arriving at the police station, Adam had been put in a holding cell. He would have been alone except for his own private watchdog who monitored his every move and kept checking his blood pressure and asking him how he felt. Apparently, it wouldn’t look good on them if he died after they shot his body full of electric volts. When he had calmed down a bit, Adam asked why he was being watched. He was told that since he’d acted out, they wanted to give him time to cool down; they also wanted to make sure he wasn’t going to be a danger to himself or to others. So now he was a lab rat and a potential psycho as well as a pervert.
At the time of his arrest, Adam didn’t know what their problem had been with him but as he sat in that cold cell, he replayed in his mind the conversation he’d had with that bitch and the police and to Adam, it sounded like they believed he was some kind of child molester. The thought made him physically ill. The attending officer wasn’t happy that his shoes got ruined.
Once he’d calmed down enough to their satisfaction, he was booked for resisting arrest. The school had yet to press any charges until the truth was determined but Adam hadn’t done himself any favors by flipping out. Sitting at a desk, he answered a list of personal questions, had his photograph and fingerprints taken and then they confiscated his personal belongings, placing them in a property bag. All he had was his jewelry - his wallet had been left at the studio and his cell phone had been left behind in the parking lot during the scuffle. His keys were with his car at the impound lot.
The worst part was when he was handed a horrendous grey inmates uniform and rubber sandals. An officer watched him as he stripped completely and changed. They took his clothes and asked if he wanted a facecloth and soap to wash his face. The officer suggested this was a good idea before he was placed near other inmates, if Adam caught his drift. Adam did and even though it left his face raw and feeling of sandpaper, he washed away the glam, hoping to blend into the crowd. That was the first time he had ever wished that.
Before going back to his cell, Adam got his one phone call. He really should have called his lawyer but all he could think about was home. He knew there was a chance no one would answer but he could leave a message. Adam called, got the machine and froze. What on earth was he going to say? ‘Hey baby, can you get me out of jail. They think you’re married to a child molester’? He couldn’t do it. He just hung up and decided to wait for the other shoe to fall. He knew they had no real evidence against him, just conjecture. The truth would come out and in the meantime, he would rather rot in jail then have his family know his shame.
--*--
Kris tried not to be worried. If something bad had happened, they would have heard right? After all, Adam had notoriety, Adam had his wallet, Adam had his cell phone, Adam would be identified.
No! Kris ordered himself not to go there. He’d wait another hour and then he’d panic.
Kris and Mrs. Willowby had a cup of coffee and then they panicked. Kris called everyone he knew and no one had heard from or seen Adam. He called back the photographer, only to learn very little, just that Adam left to pick up Hannah, said he’d be back in an hour and then he disappeared. Kris held off as long as he could but then he had to call the hospitals. He nearly choked on relief when they told him no one by that name had been admitted and no John Does had been brought in that matched Adam’s description.
Kris called the police and tried to report Adam as missing but was told a report couldn’t be filed until he was missing for 24 hours. They were no help at all!
Suddenly, he realized he hadn’t called the most obvious person - Adam himself. He dialed his husband’s cell. The phone rang three times and then was answered.
“Adam! Oh thank God,” Kris half laughed, half cried.
“Adam, oh thank God,” was parroted back at him.
“Adam?”
“Adam.” Kris heard laughing this time.
“What are you doing with Adam’s phone?” Kris was starting to freak out.
“What are you doing with Adam’s phone,” followed by more laughing. It sounded like kids.
“Where is he?” Kris shouted.
“Where is he.”
Kris slammed the phone down. Oh my God, oh my God….
“Daddy, when is Papa coming home?”
Hannah had slipped in unnoticed. Kris hoped she hadn’t overheard him. He swallowed his fear, cupped her cheek and tried to smile. “Soon Sweetpea; your Papa will be home soon.”
--*--
Adam huddled in the corner of his cell. He’d drawn his knees up to his chest and held tight, imagining he was holding onto Kris instead of his shaking legs. He had been moved to another cell where he still had his own space but only a wall of bars separated him from the other guests of the police. They couldn’t touch him but it didn’t stop the looks and the comments tossed his way.
An officer walked through the detention area, checking out the occupants. He stopped when he saw Adam on the floor.
“Why are you over there?” he asked.
Adam jerked his head in the direction of the man in the cell next door. The guy was a mess and sitting cross legged, staring at Adam. He was rubbing himself as he looked at Adam like he was fresh meat. The officer banged on the guy’s cell, yelling at him. The vagrant lay down and faced the wall.
“Thank you,” Adam offered seriously and calmly.
“You’re welcome. I can’t believe you’re still in here. I mean, well, considering who you are I figured you’d be gone by now.”
“I probably would be if I’d called my lawyer.”
“Why didn’t you?”
The young officer seemed really friendly and interested so Adam opened up a little. “I wanted to call home but when I got the machine, I couldn’t say anything, how could I tell th-them….” A tear ran down his cheek and Adam rubbed it away with his palm. He ran his hand through his hair and pulled his head down.
“Listen,” the officer said, “I can arrange for you to make another call. Just make sure it’s to your lawyer okay? You can deal with your family once you’re home.”
--*--
Four hours. It had been only four hours since he knew Adam was missing. Kris was going insane. Hannah was finishing her dinner with Mrs. Willowby and he was pacing around the family room, making a circular track from the family room to the front door and back again. He’d look out the windows framing the door, hoping to see Adam’s car drive up. So when he came back to the windows and witnessed a black car pull up to the house, he burst outside.
Kris recognized the suit that got out of the passenger seat. It was James Holloran, one of Sony’s lawyers. He opened the back door and rested one arm on the car’s roof and the other along the top of the door. He leaned in and talked to someone. Eventually, James backed away and Adam came out.
Kris took flight and caught his husband up in desperate hug. “Shit Adam, where have you been? We’ve been so worried.”
Adam didn’t return the hug. Kris backed up, still holding Adam’s arms and looked at him closely. He was dressed in his clothes from the fashion shoot but his hair was everywhere and his face wasstripped clean of make up. Kris could see every freckle and the dark circles under his eyes. “Sweetheart, what’s wrong?”
Adam couldn’t look Kris in the eyes. He turned at the hand holding out the property bag full of jewelry and grudgingly took it.
“Adam?” Kris asked again softly, touching Adam’s cheek and drawing his face towards him.
Adam opened his mouth, trying to speak. How could he….what would they think….he was so….. Adam just shook his head and whispered, “I, I can’t…please Kris…not yet.” With that, he moved away from his husband and ran into the house, disappearing up the stairs.
Kris mouth hung open. He turned to Adam’s lawyer and asked with his pained expression what happened.
“Adam was arrested at the school when he went to pick up Hannah.”
“What?”
“Apparently, the way he….looked drew some attention and some parents and the Vice Principal thpught he was a predator waiting to steal someone’s child.”
Kris didn’t know what to say. He felt a pain in his chest; his heart just broke.
“It’s all been cleared up. He was being charged with resisting arrest but when the truth came out, those charges were dropped. He’s had one hell of an afternoon.”
“So, you’re saying he won’t have a record.”
“He still has a clean slate as far as the police are concerned, and the school didn’t press charges but they didn’t seem to care what this has done to him emotionally.”
Kris looked to the house. “Thanks James, I really appreciate your help. I know Adam does too.”
“You better keep a close eye on him.”
“Why?”
“He’s in some pain. Those bastards tasered him.”
--*--
Kris quietly opened the door to their bedroom and peered in. Adam’s clothes were strewn on the floor and he was lying on top of the bed, facing away from the door, wearing his pajama bottoms and one of Kris’ shirts. Kris slipped in, picking up the garments and then headed to Adam’s side. Kris knelt down and reached out to touch Adam’s sleeping face but pulled back, realizing his husband was probably exhausted. Kris picked up a warm throw from the back of a chair and covered Adam. Kissing him on the forehead, Kris left, closing the door behind him.
Adam heard the click and grabbed a handful of blanket, bunching it up around his mouth. He began rolling back and forth, letting the tears fall as he sobbed.
--*--
Kris checked on the kids then told Mrs. Willowby he’d be in their gym if Adam needed him. He didn’t bother changing into the workout clothes they kept downstairs. He started lifting weights than switched to the punching bag. At first, he was methodical, creating a rhythm and then his rage at what had happened to his lover overwhelmed him and he pounded and pounded and pounded….
“THOSE BASTARDS! THOSE FUCKING BASTARDS! HOW COULD THEY DO THAT TO HIM! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK!!!”
He kept it up until he could no longer feel his hands.
--*--
The evening news finished and thankfully, there was no mention of what happened. Since Adam had come home, Kris had been checking the internet to see if the press had gotten wind of this but apparently Adam had a guardian angel because nothing was showing up. He went on the school’s website, to see if there was any report about the situation being resolved and there wasn’t. Kris decided to give them the benefit of the doubt and would look again tomorrow. If nothing showed up then, he would….
“Hey.”
Adam joined Kris on the couch and this time when his husband hugged him, Adam responded.
He looked at the television. “I have I become the new poster boy for Molesters Anonymous.”
“Adam, that’s not funny. And no, there hasn’t been anything on the news.”
“I know its not funny baby, but if I don’t joke about it, even a little bit, I’m going to fall apart.”
Kris stroked Adam’s jaw and kissed him. Adam’s body responded with a loud stomach rumble. Kris took his hand and they headed into the kitchen where Kris made Adam a cold roast beef sandwich.
“Are you ready to talk about it?” Kris cautiously asked, taking out two slices of whole wheat bread.
“No, but I will.”
“What happened Adam?”
“ ‘I’ happened apparently. I went to pick up our little girl and they thought I was a pervert.”
“Did they talk to you?”
“Uh huh. I told them I was there to pick up my daughter and somehow that translated into ‘I’m here to molest your children’. I’m waiting in the parking lot, minding my own business then the police show up and want to take me in for questioning.”
“Why did they taser you?”
“I kind of flipped out, refused to go quietly. Those faces, Kris, all those faces staring at me, accusing me.” His voice started quivering. “I saw, I saw Hannah in a window, watching me and I screamed out her name and ran towards her. That’s when they tackled me and I wouldn’t be quiet….oh my God, Kris, Hannah watched me be arrested, she, our little girl saw them zap her Papa…oh my God….” and the tears of shame returned.
Kris hurried around the island and took Adam by the shoulders, shaking him a little. “Adam, listen to me, it wasn’t Hannah….Hannah didn’t see anything.”
“I, I saw her Kris, in, in the window.”
“No lover, it wasn’t her, believe me. Hannah’s daycare is on the other side of the school, it doesn’t face the parking lot. She didn’t see anything sweetheart; she didn’t see her Papa being hurt.”
Adam hiccupped and wiped his cheeks. “You’re sure?”
Kris kissed him. “I’m positive. She doesn’t know anything about what happened.”
“Thank Ra for that.” His voice was weary and Kris knew Adam needed a little TLC more than a sandwich.
Without a word, they headed upstairs. Adam had a quick shower, figuratively washing away his ordeal, and then climbed into bed where Kris was waiting for him. They spooned, Kris laying his body over Adam’s. Kris saw a red mark on the crook of Adam’s neck and he kissed it gingerly; that must have been where the taser made contact. Kris hummed a soothing song in Adam’s ear and soon the older man fell asleep. Kris tried to sleep; he should have been able to sleep but while he had been able to alleviate some of Adam’s fears, Kris still had too many question running through his brain.
Tomorrow, he was going to get answers.
--*--
The next morning, Adam and Kris tried really hard to be normal, for Hannah’s sake. They’d had a bit of a heated discussion before coming down to breakfast; Adam didn’t want their daughter going back to that school of hate mongers and Kris pointed out that it was too soon to go to that extreme. He told Adam he planned on taking Hannah to school himself and he was going to talk to the Principal and get the matter taken care of to their satisfaction. Adam insisted on going with him and Kris said that wouldn’t be a good idea; thankfully, Adam had received a call from his management telling him he better show up at the rescheduled photo shoot or the magazine was going to sue for breach of contract. Kris was a little relieved and tried to hide it but Adam knew and resented it.
Adam knew Kris understood what he was feeling but Kris didn’t faced the same level of discrimination that Adam faced. Kris was gay but he looked like and conducted himself like a good ‘ol Southern boy, wholesome and clean cut. Unless he came out and said he was gay, no one suspected. Adam, however, had never been that simple. He wore his sexuality as a badge of honor and as a result, he tended to face more outward displays of hate. But what happened yesterday was different. Adam could handle anything but being accused of hurting children? The fact that someone believed he was even capable of such sick behavior filled him with rage. He wanted to lash out and that was something he had never done before; he’d thought about it but this time, he physically wanted to do it.
He kissed Hannah goodbye as well as Kris, but it was on his cheek and not affectionate at all. Before Kris could even attempt to return the gesture, Adam was climbing into the taxi that awaited him; he had to get his car out of the impound lot.
--*--
Kris dropped Hannah off at daycare and headed straight for the front office. The school secretary was busy with paperwork and didn’t notice Kris standing there until he cleared his throat.
“Yes, may I help you?”
“I’d like to talk to the Principal please.”
“I’m sorry but he’s away at a conference until the end of the week. Our Vice Principal is overseeing the school. Would you like to talk to Ms. Winters instead?”
This was too perfect - direct access to the viper’s den.
“That would be wonderful, thank you.”
“Your name?”
“Kristopher Allen.”
She smiled and called the VP. “Ms. Winters, there is a Mr. Kristopher Allen here to see you.”
“Allen, Allen…that name sounds familiar. Just one minute.” She put the call on hold and rummaged through the files on her desk. She had seen that name somewhere. Ah ha. It was student’s file - Allen-Lambert, Hannah. Lambert? Oh no. She flipped the file open, looking at the personal information. Parents: Kristopher Allen, Adam Lambert.
“Um, yes. Please tell Mr. Allen that I have a busy schedule this morning and I can’t possibly fit him in.”
“Yes, Ms. Winters.” She covered the receiver and spoke to Kris. “I’m sorry, her morning is full and she won’t be able to see you….”
“That’s fine, I’ll wait. My entire day is free.”
“I don’t think that will be necessary. You could reschedule for next week when Mr. Campbell is back.”
“I think it is necessary. Ms. Winters is exactly the person I wish to speak with. I’ll just take a seat in the hall and wait. Thank you.” Kris flashed a disarming smile and took up his post outside the VP’s door. He’d have a clear view of her office and the main office so unless she went out the window she wasn’t going to get past him.
Nervously, she reconnected the call. “Mr. Allen says he will wait.”
“Didn’t you tell him I’d be busy all morning?” There was panic in her voice.
“Yes I did but he said his entire day was free. He’ll wait.”
“Fine. If he leaves, let me know.”
“Yes Ms. Winters.”
The secretary hung up and smiled. This was going to be a wonderful day, watching the old witch get her comeuppance for accusing Mr. Lambert of such outrageous behavior. Humming to herself, she stuck her head out into the hallway.
“Mr. Allen, can I get you anything? A coffee, a magazine, a cushion?”
“I’m fine thanks.”
“If you change your mind, let me know. I’m always ready to help.”
--*--
Adam’s foul mood worked to his advantage at the photo shoot. They had almost been finished yesterday when Adam left so today involved only one fashion change. He was supposed to be channeling anger and he did it so well, he frightened a few of the interns. As soon as the last frame was taken, he quickly changed, apologized once more for the inconvenience he caused, and got the hell out of there.
He went for a drive along the coast and pulled over at a secluded beach; he wasn’t ready yet to go home and face Kris. He felt like such a prick for taking his anger out on his beautiful husband. The only thing Kris was guilty of was fairness. He may have been right, it could have just been a colossal misunderstanding but in his heart, Adam didn’t think it was. He’d seen that look on many faces and he knew what was behind it. Adam really didn’t want Hannah in that school anymore. He rehearsed his next conversation with Kris; he’d stay focused and have all his points and counterpoints prepared. Kris just had to understand.
--*--
“Mr. Allen?”
Kris jerked his head up; he’d dozed off. “Um, yes.”
“I’m going out for lunch. Would you like be to pick you up anything?”
He looked at his watch. “Noon already?” He looked towards the VP’s office. “Has she…”
“No, not yet. I think you have her running scared.”
“She should be.” Kris looked up at her and smiled. “Can I ask why you seem to be enjoying this so much?”
She looked around then sat down beside him. She kept her voice low. “I am so sorry for what happened yesterday. I was inside and if I’d seen it, I would have stopped it. I’m a big fan of Mr. Lambert’s.” Kris’s smile widened. “You know, if she manages to avoid you all afternoon, you can file an official complaint with the school board. I shouldn’t be telling you this, but she already has two strikes against her for past incidents. One more and she’s out.”
“I appreciate your candor but I’m not looking to get her fired. I just want her to make an official apology to Adam. This has been horrible for him.”
“How is he, if you don’t mind my asking?”
“Angry, humiliated, ashamed.” Kris looked up and saw a middle aged woman trying to sneak out through the office. “Is that her?”
The secretary nodded. Kris got up and met Ms. Winters at the exit. “Finally, your schedule opened up. Let’s have a chat.”
--*--
Adam got home around 1:00pm. Kris’ car wasn’t in the courtyard or the garage. Adam went to the kitchen to grab some lunch. There was note from Mrs. Willowby saying she’d gone out for a hair appointment but would be finished in time to pick up Hannah. She’d also taken Joshua with her.
He hadn’t had any breakfast that morning and found in the fridge the untouched roast beef sandwich Kris had made for him last night. He poured himself some milk and just as he opened is mouth to take a bite, the phone rang. Adam checked the caller ID. Oh no, not again.
“Hello, Allen-Lambert residence.”
“Hello. Am I speaking to Mr. Allen or Mr. Lambert?
“This is Adam Lambert. Can I help you?”
“I calling to let you know there’s been an incident at daycare regarding Hannah.”
“Hannah? What the hell happened?”
“She got into a fight with another child and I think it would be a good idea if she went home early.”
“Is she hurt?”
“No, but she’s very upset. Can someone pick her up please?”
“I’ll be right there.”
--*--
Adam arrived at his daughter’s daycare room and all his anger faded away at the sight of his little girl sitting at a table by herself, sniffling and wiping her eyes. There was a little boy at another table and he looked just as miserable. Between them sat a teacher. She looked up at Adam and nodded.
“Hannah, your father is here.”
She turned around, her eyes red and puffy. She usually called his name and jumped in her arms but her bottom lip was quivering and she stayed where she was, looking afraid. Adam smiled and knelt beside her, opening his arms. The climbed into his lap and cried.
Adam rocked her. “Shhh, shhh baby, its okay, its okay. Hannah, Sweetpea, look at me.”
She looked up at her Papa and he thumbed away her tears. He smiled and asked, “What happened Hannah? You can tell me, I won’t get mad.”
Hannah pointed at the other child. “Jason said mean things.”
“What did he say?”
“He said mean things about you.”
Jason’s eyes got huge as Hannah’s Papa looked at him but Adam didn’t say anything, instead turning his attention back to his daughter. “What did he say?”
“He said that you were a bad man and that you hurt little children. He said you were a fig.”
“Fag?”
“Uh huh. And that you were going down there.” She pointed to the ground, her way of saying ‘hell’ without saying it.
Adam looked at the little boy again. He turned to the teacher. “May I speak with him? I promise, I won’t yell or scare him.”
She looked uncertain but let him. This was obviously a topic she was uncomfortable dealing with.
“Jason, where did you hear these things?”
The little boy looked anxiously at his teacher. “It’s alright Jason, answer Mr. Lambert’s question.”
“I, I heard my mommy tell my daddy.”
Of course; it seems to always come down to the parents.
“Do you understand what your mommy was taking about? Do you know why she might say those things about me?”
Jason shook his head.
Adam lifted Hannah up and he folded his long frame into a little chair, bringing the two children together.
“She said those things because something happened yesterday. Some people thought I was going to hurt your friends because of the way I looked.”
Jason looked Adam up and down.
“You don’t look funny.”
Adam smiled as he was dressed casually and make up free. “Thank you Jason. But yesterday, I had been at work and for my job I get to play dress up.”
“Cool!”
“Way cool! I was dressed differently from the other parents and someone thought it meant I was bad.”
“Just because you look different doesn’t mean your bad,” Jason said matter of factly.
Nodding, Adam replied, “You’re right. When you think badly about someone because they look different, it’s called discrimination. Big word huh?” Jason agreed and scooted his chair closer to Adam. “Imagine if the world was full of only Hannahs or only Jasons.”
“That would be really boring,” Hannah commented.
“It would be awfully cute but it would be boring wouldn’t it. Being different is good, its fun and when things are different, we have to learn to live together, to understand different ways of doing things. When someone is treated badly, we need to feel compassion for them; we need to care about their feelings. Hannah, Jason, can you understand why it wasn’t a good idea to fight?”
“Because…it can hurt?” Jason offered.
Adam smiled. “And?”
“Fighting makes more fighting,” Hannah added.
“Right. So what should you do when you and a friend disagree?”
“We should talk,” Hannah and Jason said together.
“What about shouting?”
“No, just talk.”
“Great. Now,” Adam said, setting his daughter on her feet and gesturing for Jason to stand up, “you two need to talk.”
“Hannah, I’m sorry I said those things about your Papa. Mr. Lambert, I’m sorry I said those things.”
“And I’m sorry I started this in the first place,” came a familiar voice from behind him. Adam looked to the door and saw Ms. Winters standing there with Kris. “I owe you a huge apology Mr. Lambert. It was wrong of me to assume anything about you just because you stood out.”
Kris could have looked smug, being right that it would have been premature to take Hannah out of the school, but he didn’t. He looked proud of his husband.
“How much of this did you hear?” Adam asked the odd couple.
“Enough to convince me that we need to add tolerance training to the curriculum,” Ms. Winters replied, “and I’ll be the first to sign up. Please accept my apology.”
Adam walked up to her and offered his hand. “Apology accepted.”
“Thank you.”
“And I owe you an apology too,” came another voice. Kris stepped aside and another parent came into the room.
Jason ran to her, hugging her legs. “Mommy, you shouldn’t have said those things about Hannah’s Papa. It hurt his feelings.”
She rubbed her son’s back. “Yes Jason, I realize that now.” She looked up at Adam, her face red. “I heard everything you said. Thank you for not being mad at him; I’m the one you should be mad at. How will my son learn to be a good person if I don’t teach him how?”
“I was mad…very mad…but this little chat has also taught me to practice what I preach. Let’s just agree it won’t happen again.”
“It won’t, I promise…and if I hear anyone else talking out of turn, I’ll set them straight too.”
“Well, since you’re both here, you can take the children home if you like,” the teacher offered after letting out a sigh of relief.
“I wanna stay and play with Hannah!”
“I wanna stay and pay with Jason!”
“Do you mind if I stay?” Jason’s mom asked the teacher.
“Feel free. Mr. Allen, Mr. Lambert, would you like stay or do you want to take your daughter home?”
Kris took Adam’s hand and squeezed. “If it’s alright with you, we’ll come back and pick her up at dismissal time.”
They each kissed Hannah and headed down the hall.
“Kris, where are going?”
Kris placed his hand on the small of Adam’s back. “We’re going to have our own peace talks.”
--*--
Kris sat on the swing and slowly swayed as Adam sat on the bottom of the slide.
“Do you remember when you were a kid and you had all these earth shattering questions and you knew that your parents could give you the answers?” Kris asked, taking in the empty schoolyard.
“Yeah; I used to think my dad was the smartest person on earth, next to my mom.”
“Same here.” Kris stopped moving, planting his feet firmly on the ground. “Now that I’m an adult, though, I realize I still don’t know anything. Adam, I’m sorry if you think I was trivializing your feelings this morning; I didn’t mean to, really. You know I always try and find the good in people and maybe I just didn’t want to see how hateful the world can be. You had been treated horribly and I should have had your back. If you still want to pull Hannah out of this school, then I’m with you. However, running away from it isn’t going to make it go away.”
Adam leaned back on the slide, resting his head on his arm. “I shouldn’t have taken my anger out on you. You do have my back, we just see the bigger picture differently. You wanted to talk it out and I wanted to punch it out.”
Kris snorted. “We aren’t so different you know. Last night, when you were lying down, I went to our gym and beat the crap out of the punching bag. I screamed my head off, cursing all those people who stood by and let you be treated like that.”
“That probably cleared your head, helped you to think rationally. I’ve held it in and if I hadn’t been called here today, I really don’t know what I would have done. Something very, very stupid I’m sure.”
“What changed?”
“Seeing Hannah and Jason being affected by hate. I explained compassion, equality and understanding to them and in the process, I think I had a more profound effect on myself. ‘Fighting makes more fighting’ - out of the mouths of babes right?”
Kris hopped off his swing and straddled his husband on the slide and kissed his nose.
“Kris! Are you trying to get me arrested again?” Adam laughed.
“No, I just wanted to remind you that when we work together - no matter what we’re doing,” he explained, raising an eyebrow as he did, “ - we are unstoppable. Let’s talk things out next time and between the two of us, maybe we can become as smart as our parents.”
“Or we can just call them to handle our problems again.”
“Nah, I like being my own man.”
“I like you as my own man too.”
The recess bell rang and hordes of children ran towards the playground equipment. Kris and Adam quickly split and headed back to daycare. They suddenly had an urge for a tea party.