Chapter 10 - Pieces

***Zac*** 

      "You realize we won't be able to do this anymore when your mom and Lenne move in, right?" Kayden panted, on his back.

      I knew he hadn’t meant to refer to Diana as my mom, because I wasn't comfortable with calling her that. I just closed my eyes and tried to catch my breath.

      "We have your place."

      Even with my eyes closed, I could feel Kayden maneuvering over me. It was more than the heat from his body; I felt his presence all around me.

      "And besides, we're moving to a bigger house," I reminded him.

      He slapped my chest. "You know what I meant." I felt his hand stroking my chest. "One more month…"

      "Stop," I said. "I don't want to think about that."

      "It's going to happen, though. We can't avoid it."

      "Yeah, but I want to just enjoy lying beside you right now."

      He lifted his hand off my chest and placed his head there. "And…exams start soon," he said.

      "Have you started studying?" I asked him. He laughed, and then I laughed. We both knew he wouldn't start studying until I forced him to; there was no way he'd start studying before I did.

      "We need to break out another study schedule. I think something similar to our last exams." I opened my eyes while I was stroking his hair.

      I wasn't able to twirl my fingers around his hair as I'd been doing during the past month. We’d both gotten haircuts. Mine grew too crazy to manage, so I went back to my short spikey.

      "We’ll need more sex breaks, though," Kayden said in a serious tone.

      My stomach vibrated as I chuckled at his comment. Something wet brushed over my left nipple.

      "Oh, God!" I sighed, as my chest rose to meet Kayden's kisses. "Don't stop… that feels so good."

      Kayden blew over the wet spot, making me squirm. I knew we were due for another round.

      "Hey, Zac…you're out of orange juice," a voice called out as someone walked into my room. "And I think… FUCKING SHIT!"

      I turned to my door just in time to see Scott slam it behind him. "How about a fucking warning next time!" he shouted from the other side.

      I stared up at the ceiling and let out a laugh. Kayden followed suit, but had a look on his face. "Guess our playtime is over…"

      I nodded and turned again towards the door. "You shouldn’t walk into people's homes uninvited.”

      "Whatever, dude," Scott retorted. "Are you guys decent, now?"

      "Did you want to join us?" Kayden joked.

      "Fuck you, Kade. Get some fucking clothes on!"

      "Jeez, you must have the biggest case of blue balls. Maya still holding out on you?" I teased as I reached for my shorts.

      "Oh, funny!" Scott shouted angrily.

      When Kayden and I were 'decent', we tried to call Scott back in.

      "No, you guys come down," he replied, all bitchy. "Now that I realize what goes on in there I'm never stepping in that room again."

      "We're not getting up, Scott," Kayden told him. "It's Sunday, it's Zac's day off, and I'm not teaching at the dojo."

      Scott opened the door but didn't step in.

      "I was thinking about what you said last week. If we want to throw another party, we should do it this Friday.”

      "Is that the consensus?" I asked, wondering about our other friends.

      "Yup." Scott nodded his head.

      "Then, let it be." I nodded back.

      He grinned and leaned against the doorframe. "I remember the last time I walked into your house uninvited. Sorta witnessed something that blew my mind away."

      "You ass," Kayden spoke up. "You said you wouldn't bring that up again."

      "You really should put a warning on your door," Scott suggested. "Like a sock on the handle, or something."

      "Yeah, that way I can advertise it to my dad or anyone else who comes by, right?"

      "Hey, it's better than finding Kayden licking you like you’re a lollipop." Scott bit his bottom lip.

      I threw a pillow at him. "Get out of here!" I yelled, feeling a bit embarrassed. 

**************

      A party at my place was due. There was some stuff about showing face to the school or something that Mai and Lenne kept referring to, but I mostly wanted a reason to have Phil over to hang out with my friends, partly as a way to make up for the way I had treated him.

      At first, I didn't want to invite Brad, but I realized I really didn't feel that cold towards him. Sure, he had outted me, but that had made me take a step I’d been afraid of, and it really wasn't that bad. Overlooking the fact that he really wanted to steal my boyfriend, he was a pretty funny guy. He was blunt and self-centered, but he added colour to our school.

      Since I knew I didn’t have to worry about losing Kayden to him, I couldn't see why he shouldn't be invited. I told my friends that anyone from our grade was allowed to come. They understood, and they spread the word. I trusted them and I knew they wouldn't invite people who would destroy my house. It was pretty obvious who didn't like me because I’m  gay. They treated my friends and me like we were lepers. I even noticed a change in the attitude of several of the teachers. None of them were mean; it was quite the opposite, as if they were giving me special treatment. I knew I wouldn't get anything of the sort from Mr. Sergeant. I wondered if Phil and Brad had to deal with the same things I was experiencing.

      Something good did come out of being outted. Days after I was out, several others came out as well. The two I suspected in my drama class are in fact gay and dating. Jett was convinced I started a revolution at our school. I think Phil did.

      Dad was a sport, as always, in agreeing to let me host the party at our house. He said he’d have a date with Diana. Good for him; I was glad they were really getting along. I realized that I'd never seen Dad so happy and energetic over so long a period. Usually, he'd have a great day only about once a month, or when he did things with me. Every day recently he was bursting with energy, and I knew that came from being with the love of his life. I guess my hate definitely faded. I wasn't ready to move in with her, but I knew it would happen, so I was slowly preparing for it. 

*************

      "Let's pretend this party is making up for last month," I told Mai.

      She smiled at me and rolled her eyes. "Thanks. I was just about to forget about that."

      Shin took her hand and held it. She turned to him and smiled.

      I just shook my head and walked away.

      Kayden walked by my side and took my hand, and I turned to him and beamed. I was clearly going red in the face. People were already arriving, and even though they knew Kayden and I are a couple, they still stared. I was pretty cool with most of the people who had showed up so far. My friends had done great in choosing who to invite.

      "What were you talking about?" Kayden asked, referring to my discussion with Mai.

      "She was still upset we all forgot her birthday. It's Shin's fault; he should have told us." 
 "Why didn't Mai just tell us?"

      "She's like that, I guess. She didn't want to say it because she was embarrassed, but she also expected us to do something. I thought her birthday was in the summer," I said, covering for myself.

      "I think Maya would be the one to know these things. She must have been clueless, too," Kayden said, laughing.

      "Same with Lenne. Mai was upset, but I think Shin made it up to her. Did he tell you about their amazing night?"

      Kayden gave me a look. "Do I want to hear it?" 
 I chuckled. "Hearing it from Shin is really amusing."

      "Hey, Zac! Sick party, man," some random person said to me. I nodded to him.

      "Maybe you should go around and greet your guests," Kayden suggested.

      "All right. I’ll see ya around."

      "I'll get you a drink."

      As I released Kayden's hand, he moved forward and gave me a light peck on the lips. I felt my face explode. He grinned as he walked away, leaving me to stand around looking awkward. A girl and guy watched the whole thing and were pretty surprised. When they noticed me looking their way, they lifted their cups as if to congratulate me. I nodded and walked away.  

*** 

      "But, is it true? Is Zac really, you know…" the girl asked Jett.

      Jett saw me stepping up behind the girl and smiled. "Why not ask him?"

      The girl turned around and shrieked. "Zac! Hi! How are you? Great party you have here."

      "I'm great. Thanks for coming. What did you want to ask me?"

      "Oh, nothing, just wondering where the host was." She didn't even look past me, but she said, "My friends are here! I gotta meet them! Bye, Zac. See you around." 
 She zipped away in a flash. I turned back and saw my best friend smacking the arm of the chair he was in. "Oh, crap! That was priceless." 
 "Well, I’m glad my situation amuses you," I replied, sitting down beside him. He offered his drink and I took it.

      "You know it broke a lot of hearts, you being out," Jett over simplified.

      I pretended I didn't care, but the truth was I felt bad for them. Over the weeks, several girls had confessed having feelings for me. Once they found out that I’m gay, they didn't mind telling me about it. It was awkward for me, but they seemed pretty amused by it. Several of them told me I could call on them if I wanted to go shopping or anything. Even though I don’t particularly hate Brad for doing what he did, I sometimes wish he’d kept his big mouth shut. But, what’s done is done.

      "I don't get it," I said as I turned to Jett. "It seems like girls are all over me now." 

      "Every girl wants a gay friend, Zac," Lenne said cheerfully as she took a seat next to me. "Too bad…you have enough women in your life, right?"

      "What she said," Jett said.

      "Yeah, I got enough people in my life. I don't think I need any more," I told them. "I can't remember all their birthdays."

      "You can't seem to remember even the closest ones, as I recall," Lenne pointed out.

      "Oh, shut up," I laughed at her. "Mai is like your best friend. It's all right for me to forget, but what's your excuse?"

      "Hey, I've only known her for less than a year. I don't know about you, but I don't make a new friend and then ask when their birthday is."

      Jett laughed at me while Lenne stared, waiting for me to break.

      "Touché," I submitted. "So, not dancing yet?"

      "Actually, I came over wondering if one of you wants to dance." Lenne smiled.

      "Go for it, Jett. I need to go around and greet guests, you know?"

      Jett grinned and stood up with Lenne.

      "You're never going to find a guy if you keep hanging off me, you know," Jett joked as they walked away. 

***

      By around ten, the party was reaching its peak. People were dancing, playing cards, playing pool, and lounging on the sofas. It seemed like they were really enjoying themselves.

      I saw Phil standing around with Joe and a girl I assumed was Joe’s date, since he had an arm around her waist.

      "Zac!" Joe greeted as he noticed my approach. "Zac, I want you to meet a special gal. This is Melody. She goes by Mel, though. Mel, this is the host of the party, Zac."

      I turned to the pretty girl and greeted her. I was surprised by how high and soothing her voice was. "You're the one who’s gay, too, right?" she asked me.

      I flushed red and just nodded.

      "Well then, there you go, Phil," Mel said, clapping her hands. "I told you I could find you a guy for tonight."

      Phil turned to me and laughed. If it had been anyone else, I might have thought they were making fun of me, but Phil knew things that Melody didn't.

      "He's already dating a great guy, Mel," Phil said.

      "Oh, damn!" She seemed disappointed. "Well, I think one of my cousins is gay. Why don't I hook you guys up?"

      Phil had his hands up, defensively, in an instant. "Really, Mel, it's not necessary…"

      "Where did you pick up the hyper flower?" I joked as Mel and Phil continued to chat.

      "She's from Anderson High," Joe said proudly. "She's really fun to be with, but she does have a tendency to want to take care of everyone."

      "Well, you guys look great together."

      He flashed me a grin.

      "What are you drinking, Phil? Coke? You need a real drink," Mel insisted, and walked off.

      Poor Phil looked stressed. "My dad is picking me up later. I can't go home drunk."

      "Don't worry so much, man," I said. "One drink won't get you smashed."

      "But…I've never drank before. I might be a lightweight. She might put too much… Oh, shit."

      Hearing Phil swear was like hearing Maya swear. It brought a smile to my face.

      "Well, why not stay the night? I figure a lot of people will be crashing here," I offered.

      "What? A sleepover? I didn't bring extra clothes," Phil said.

      "Dude, sleep in what you have now." I laughed.

      "Jeez, Phil," Joe said, shaking his head. "You really need a drink. Calm down a bit, man."

      "There's a lot of people here," Phil mentioned, looking around.

      There really were. There were more people than at my last party.

      "And here I thought I would be avoided like a disease."

      "You're a really influential person, Zac," Joe said. "People respect you, and the fact you’re gay doesn’t change that. Don't forget that."

      "Have you guys seen all of these people at school?" Phil asked. "I've never seen some of them."

      "Probably friends of friends," I told him.

***

      "Hey, man," I said to a guy near the pool table. "No smoking here. You gotta do that outside."

      He turned to me and nodded. "Oh, sorry. I saw someone light up and thought it was okay." With that, he turned and left. Kayden was beside me.

      "That's like the fifth person I had to tell not to smoke," I complained.

      "Yeah, and it's getting harder to watch everyone," Kayden said. "There's way too many people here."

      He was right. The basement was packed. Music was blaring and Mai and Shin were fighting people off from messing with Scott's computer and my dad's system. I was starting to get worried, but we had made sure to move most things that could be stolen or broken and put them in the main hallway. The door to the hallway was locked, and that kept people out of the rest of the house.

      "Zac, I need to use your bathroom, man, but some chick’s been in there for ages," a guy said to me. 
 I gave Kayden the key to the main hallway. "You take him upstairs for a second? And make sure no one else goes into the main house."

      Kayden nodded and headed off.

      "Hey!" I called out, "I told you, no smoking in here."

      The same guy I had already told to not smoke hid the cigarette in his sleeve. "I'm not smoking."

      My temper was rising.

***

      "Zac, there are four broken bottles near the stairs, and I think someone smashed a bottle at your neighbor’s house," Maya told me.

      I was starting to panic. Things were way out of hand. There were fools dancing and spilling drinks all over. There were assholes messing up people's pool games and card games. And there were people I didn't know harassing people who go to my school. As I looked around, I realized that people from my school were actually being intimidated by the strangers. Several people who had been enjoying themselves earlier were obviously annoyed by the invaders.

      "Zac?" Maya said worriedly.

      "Hey, Zac, what's going on, man?" Joe asked, approaching me. "There are people trashing your party. Mel says they go to her school. Did you invite them?"

      Mel approached us, with Phil tagging along. Both were as worried as I was.

      "I didn't invite them," I said. "I don’t even know them."

      "I know a lot of them. Do you want me to make some leave?" Mel asked.

      I was desperate. "Please!"

      "Okay." She walked off.

      "I'm going to watch out for her,” Joe said. “Phil, you come along, man. You might get crushed if you aren't near me."

      Phil hurried along.

      "Sorry, Maya. Do you think you can take care of the broken bottles?" I asked.

      "Not a problem. I'll also get some help with stopping people from causing trouble."

      As soon as she had walked off, Kayden came over, looking very serious. "I just heard some guys saying that they heard some fag is having this crazy party, and they’re here to trash the place."

      I stopped breathing.

      Kayden stared at me. "Just say the word, Zac…"

      "We need to clear out everyone," I told him. He nodded and tore through the crowd of people.

      "Zac!" Scott called out.

      I turned towards the direction his voice had come from and yelled, "Where were you?"

      Scott had shouted my name trying to find where I was. When he got to me, he was out of breath.

      "We gotta stop this party, Zac. Like now!"

      "I kinda know that…"

      "You don't understand! There's a lineup of cars trying to get into your street. Jett got his sister to block one side of the street with her car, but people are parking near the park and walking over. I’ve been out there with Jett and Lenne, trying to stop them from coming in. Zac, people from Anderson are here. Jocks, stoners…every kind. Somebody told them about this party. You need to call the cops to clear them out."

      At that moment, the music died and all you could hear was loud voices.

      "You didn't tell Maya to shut off the music, did you?" Scott shouted in horror.

      Before I could answer, I realized why Scott was looking so horrified.

      Shouts and roars thundered through my basement. People close to the cold room were near a section that has a low ceiling. Some were jumping up and down, smacking it with their hands. I noticed several people just pushing one another. Fights were going to break out soon. I heard several things shatter, and I knew they were beer bottles.

      "Wait here," Scott shouted. He took off before I could answer him.

      I watched in shock as all hell broke loose. Maya stood on a couch, shrieking at a group of people. "DO YOU ASSHOLES HAVE ANY RESPECT FOR SOMEONE'S PROPERTY? GET THE FUCK OUT!" 
 In all my life, I had never seen a woman as composed and calm as Maya go into such a primal rage.

      I saw Mai near Scott's computer and my dad's system, hitting people with a big metal lamp stool. From what I could tell, she was keeping people from touching any of the equipment.

      Mel was in the middle of a group of people, smacking at them and pointing at the stairs. They seemed unfazed by her anger, but at least she was trying.

      All my friends were trying to help, but all I could do was watch as people ruined my basement. I grabbed a pool cue.

      "Hey, asshole!" I shouted to the guy I’d told not to smoke about fifty times. "Get the fuck out of my house or I'm gonna kick your ass!"

      I didn't even see his reaction. Someone grabbed me and knocked me to the floor. I was surrounded by a bunch of guys I'd never seen.

      "Hey, it's the fag who owns this fucking house," a large guy spat.

      "Fags are sick, man," another guy said, and then took a chug of his beer.

      I noticed he was drinking a Molson. I don't know why that went through my head but I guess I was just too utterly stunned to think straight.

      "Hey, we're in a fag’s house?”

      “Yo, man, we're gonna turn gay if we don't fucking leave," another laughed.

      I was hoping they would all leave, but I cringed at what the biggest of them said next.

      "Let's kick his ass, first." 

***Kayden*** 

      I need something blunt… This might be good.

      I heard the door open and watched Shin and Scott step out.

      "Where have you guys been?" I asked angrily.

      "I'm on damage control, Kayden," Scott said sharply. "Don't start with me. And Shin called the cops." 

      "Uh, you might want a less dangerous weapon, Kayden," Shin said, looking at the bat in my hand.

      "Don’t worry about it. Zac must be by himself down there. We need to hurry."

      "I left three shinais here, from our trip. We're using those," Shin told me.

      Scott retrieved them and then we went around to the side of the house. We noticed several people from our school rushing out. I wondered what was going down.

      Scott opened the side door, where Jett was stopping anyone from going in. There were people a year or two older than us trying to get in, and Jett was sweating and panting from knocking them away. Lenne stood beside him with a brick in her hand, threatening to smash in someone's head if they threw another beer bottle at the houses.

      "Jett," Shin called out as he threw him a shinai.

      Jett caught it and looked at it.

      "Thanks, Shin. Not my sort of thing, but my fists are starting to bruise."

      We left Jett to his work.

      As we entered the basement, we witnessed something close to what a mosh pit would look like. People were jumping and pushing each other and there were drunk kids trying to get out of the way.

      Shin and Scott took off, I assumed looking for their girlfriends. I noticed Joe getting in the way of some guy that was trying to pick a fight with Phil. A girl near Joe, I think it was his date, was screaming at the top of her lungs.

      "Joe!" I called out as I stepped forward.

      He saw me and was relieved to see what I had with me. I handed him the bat.

      "All right, bitch," Joe said, examining the bat. "You still wanna fuck with me?"

      The guy put his hands up defensively and started to back away.

      "More effective than my chest," Joe grinned. "Go find Zac."

      I left Joe to his business and headed towards some shouts and screams that were coming from near the pool table. 

***Jett*** 

      I had to admit to myself that smacking people with a bamboo stick was a lot of fun. It was funny watching drunk people try to catch it with their hands. I was starting to see what Shin meant about snapping people's wrists. I was making people drop bottles by the dozen. Others just took off running.

      Lenne was bitching at several girls who were getting in her face. I was surprised to see Lenne drop her brick and turn back to a girl just to give her a powerful right hook.

      I heard the girls near her gasp and scream, and Lenne crossed her arms.

      "You wanna go again?" Lenne yelled. I felt my heart speed up. I somehow found her vicious side really hot.

      I heard another beer bottle smash, and turned to the culprit. "You didn't…" I started.

      He took off running. I was about to chase him, but I realized I had to keep on guarding the door.

      To the side of me, I noticed a guy pissing on Zac's house. That ticked me off, big time.

      "Hey!" I yelled.  
 As he turned towards me, I brought the bamboo stick into snapping position. I didn't hesitate. I was pissed. 

***Scott*** 

      It was my chance to finally show Maya my courageous side. It’s always been there, but I’d just never had a chance to show it off. My time had come.

      As I approached, Maya was yelling and close to tears, on top of a sofa.

      "Don't cry, princess," I shouted boldly. "Your prince is here." 

      Maya turned towards me just as someone knocked into me from behind. In a domino effect, I fell forward, crashing into several girls and a guy who were near Maya.

      I knew I was fucked when I realized I didn't still have the shinai in my hand. As I crawled over the bodies I was on top of, I saw the Goddess of Justice, the deliverer of purity and pain, my Maya, smacking random people over the head with the sword I was supposed to have.

      "Get out! Get out! Get out!" she shouted through clenched teeth as she expressed her wrath. It was a bit weak, but I could tell she was using all of her strength.

      I wasn't surprised to see a guy go for the weapon. He grabbed it and I watched as my girl struggled to pull it away from him. He laughed as he played around with her strength.

      "Hey, asshole! Having fun playing with my girl?" I stood behind him. As he turned towards me, I noticed how revolting he looked. My body just reacted. I grabbed his head and smashed my forehead against his nose. He released the stick Maya held, causing her to fall backwards against the wall. The guy grabbed his head and shouted in pain as he ran through crowd.

      I felt slightly dazed. I couldn't tell if it was from the alcohol, the effect of head butting someone, or the adrenaline rush I was on. It might have been all of it combined, but whatever it was, it felt fantastic.

      Someone grabbed my head and I was too slow to react. Soft lips pressed against mine. I realized they belonged to the only girl I've ever kissed. No one else could have had soft lips like that.

      When Maya pulled back, she had tears in her eyes. "You're so brave!"

      I was at a loss for words. All I could do was grin like an idiot. 

***Shin*** 

      I was having the time of my life. Mai was beside me, viciously smacking people with the end of a broken lamp pole. The madness in her eyes was captivating.

      She pulled back, panting. Her long, straight black hair in disarray in front of her face was a portrayal of her wild side. She turned to me with some hair caught in her mouth. "How you doing, baby?"

      "You look so hot right now!" I told her.

      She bit her bottom lip. "And I'm all yours…"

      It was like her words sent energy right into me. I snapped at limbs faster and at a rate that even my shishou would have been proud of. 

***Zac*** 

      The first punch landed as soon as I picked myself up from the floor. For a moment, all I could hear was a piercing noise in my ears. My breath was gone, but I was gasping as I covered my stomach with my arms.

      I fell back to the floor, expecting kicks to follow. Instead, something fell on me and I grunted in pain as the body crushed me.

      For a moment, the body didn't move. I just lay there with my head spinning and my breath gone, as the chaos vibrated in my ears.

      The body on top of me suddenly shifted off and I felt strong hands lifting me. I shielded my body from any blows that might soon be landing.

      "Zac, are you okay?"

      "Kayden!"

      Kayden held me by the shoulders as he inspected me from head to toe.

      "I'm all right," I gasped.

      Anger flashed in Kade’s eyes. It was then I noticed what he was holding.

      A guy at my feet was clutching his shin in agony while screaming profanity. "You fucking asshole! I'll fucking…"

      "Shut up!" Kayden ordered. "Shut up, or I'll kill you!"

      The guy did just that.

      Kayden put me behind him as he faced the other guys who had surrounded me.

      "Dude, put the weapon down," a big guy ordered.

      "I'm gonna mess you guys up so bad. Just wait…" Kayden threatened them, showing a hint of joy.

      I reached out and grabbed his hand that held the crowbar. "No blood and no broken bones," I whispered.

      Kayden turned his head slightly to see my hand clutching his, and then he turned back to the other guys. "Get out. You have one minute to grab your friends and get out. Get moving!"

      "Police are out here!" someone yelled.

      Like at the end of a movie, people rushed out in a chaotic yet organized manner. Relief filled me as I slumped to the floor. Kayden crouched beside me, looking concerned. “Are you sure you’re okay? I’ll hunt those people down for you, if you want.”

      I smiled at my brave fighter’s loyalty. “I’m all right, Kade. Just surprised, that’s all. Maybe we should limit my parties to people I know,” I said, attempting to make a joke.  

*** 

      The police didn't really do anything. Their presence just helped clear everyone out of the house. At a bit past twelve, there were a few people still around. One officer was talking to some guy who looked at least eighteen. The officer took something from him that looked like one of the pool balls.

      "Zac?"

      I turned to the voice and tried to look calm. "Hey, Mel, thanks for all your help."

      "I'm sorry for how the night turned out. Here," she said, passing me another ball. "I found this at the side of the street. I think it's yours."

      I took it and examined it. It was scratched. Dad would kill me.

      "It's cold. We should head inside where everyone else is," Joe said, walking towards us.

      "Shouldn't I go talk to the officers or something?" I asked.

      "All taken care of, man. I explained everything. We were having a small party when suddenly a bunch of uninvited people showed up and trashed the place. It happens often enough. They're just hanging around now to make sure those driving aren't drunk."

      "Shit," I muttered, "I was so scared they'd check the house and find alcohol."

      "Zac, Zac, my friend," Joe grinned. "It's illegal for minors to buy alcohol. For all they know, the punks who trashed the party brought it."

      "We should probably survey the damage," I said. I felt my stomach churn.

***

      I sat on the steps in the main stairwell of the house. I was almost in shock because of the hell that had broken loose. My friends were downstairs with several others who had stayed behind to help clean up the crap. I had almost broken down when I realized the extent of the damage. I just knew my dad was going to kill me. I could hear music playing downstairs on low volume. It was like a post-party cleanup party.

      "This house is huge!" a girl slurred as she walked up the stairs. I looked down and saw Kayden helping her up the stairs.

      "Yes, it is." Kayden grinned as the girl wobbled towards me.

      "Is this your house?" she asked. Her lipstick was smeared.

      I couldn't help but smile. "Yep, it is."

      "I don't know who you are, but you had a fucking great party! Sorry I passed out in your washroom." As she apologized, she seemed almost proud of the fact.

      "Hey, no problem."

      "All right, come on, now. Your cab is here." Kayden led her to the door while rolling his eyes at me.

      As soon as Kayden opened the front door, my dad walked in, followed closely by Diana. Dad looked very calm.

      I knew that he realized something had happened. There wouldn't have been any other reason for me to be waiting on the stairs for him to come home. I had always done that when it came to confessing something to him. I tried to think up a scenario that would get me out of my bind, but there was no fooling my dad. It’s always best to be honest with him.

      "Guess it didn't go as planned." Dad smiled as he walked towards me.

      Diana was saying something to the girl and Kayden. Whatever it was, the girl was hanging onto every word. I noticed that she turned towards Kayden and said something that caused him to go red in the face. Whatever it was, the girl seemed to like the sound of it.

      "Uninvited guests?" Dad asked.

      I turned back to him. "Yeah. They sort of made a mess downstairs."

      "And? Did you wallow away and let them trash the place?" Dad asked, looking directly into my eyes.

      I swallowed. "No, sir. Kayden and the guys grabbed Shin's shinais and they got everyone out. I grabbed a pool cue, but I was surrounded. I tried to…"

      "Are you all right?"

      "Yeah…" I felt it coming. The tears of shame. I tried to fight it, but they pushed through.

      "I'm really sorry, Dad. It wasn't supposed to be like this." I began to tremble. I couldn’t hold my emotions in front of my dad, and that make me feel ashamed. I wasn’t able to look him in the eye as tears ran down my face.

      "Zac, you couldn't have stopped it, but you did the right thing. There's an officer out there who told me what happened. He said he's seen far worse. You and your friends took charge of the party and chased everyone out. Most people would freeze up and be scared to do anything."

      In truth, I had frozen up. Having five older guys surrounding you can make you feel weak.

      "Let's go take a look," Dad said, walking towards the basement area. I got up and followed him. Everyone froze when Dad and I walked downstairs.

      Lenne and Mai had been rounding up broken glass from the carpet. Everyone had kept their shoes on, because there was quite a bit of glass in one area.

      Jett and Scott walked quickly to one side of the basement. I gave them a look and shook my head. I knew what they wanted to do, but trying to hide stuff from Dad, right under his nose, was never a good idea.

      "Okay, tell me about the damages," Dad said as he started walking around and looking.

      I followed and took a deep breath before I answered. "Broken bottles, spilt alcohol…" I swallowed and then continued, "Missing pool balls, a broken pool cue, the dart board frame was torn down. Some holes in the drywall…and one hole in the ceiling." 

      "Is that it?" Dad asked, surveying the hole in the ceiling.

      "Yeah…"

      "Hey, it ain't so bad!" Dad turned to me with excitement in his eyes.

      "Wha-?"

      "Jeez, Zac, you made me fear the worst. I thought the sound system was jacked, or that the big screen was smashed. The damage is pretty minimal, if you ask me."

      I was shocked.

      "The pool balls needed to be replaced, anyways. The mess can be cleaned up and the holes covered. Drywall is easy to repair. As for the dart board, that's probably the biggest damage."

      I was speechless.

      Dad turned to Diana. "Remember when I threw that crazy party when we were about fifteen?"

      Diana just shook her head. "Zac, believe me when I say this; the damage here is small. Your dad threw a party behind your grandparents’ back when we were your age. Compared to that, this is spilt milk."

      I noticed the relieved looks on all my friends’ faces, but the biggest shock was to me. Dad was all right with what had happened.

      "You two weren't going to try and hide this from me, were you?" Dad asked Jett and Scott.

      "No, sir," they said simultaneously. They were scared, and rightfully so.

      "Don't let this ruin the night, guys. Save the rest of the cleanup for tomorrow. Enjoy the rest of the night, break out some more drinks, and deal with this when there's sunlight."

      "Are you staying the night, Lenne?" Diana asked.

      "Yeah, I think so. Thanks."

      "Jett's sister is going to drop us off home, later on," Mai said, walking up to Maya.

      "We're crashing here," Joe said, indicating Phil and Mel.  

      I really liked Mel; I was hoping she and Joe would stay as strong as they already seemed to be.

      The other three who’d stayed behind to clean also seemed buzzed enough to need to stay over. I didn't mind. The fact that they stayed behind to help clean up meant a lot.

      "Well then, I think I should head home. Goodnight, crew." Diana smiled kindly. All my friends answered back with more enthusiasm than I would have expected.

      Kayden finally came downstairs, and Diana gave him a look. "I hope you didn't take advantage of that girl, Kayden."

      Kayden blushed. "Like hell I would!"

      Everyone busted out laughing.

      I realized that Diana still didn't know about Kayden and me. I turned to Dad and he confirmed it with a nod. I walked up the stairs with Dad following close behind me. 

***

      "Thanks for the interesting night, Kevin. I haven't done that for quite a long time," Diana said, smiling beautifully.

      "Diana, I think Zac needs to tell you something," Dad said, encouraging me.

      "I want you to know it's not Dad's fault or anyone's fault. It's just the way I am," I blurted out.

      She gave me an odd look. "Okay…"

      "Zac, quit screwing around. Just say it." Dad crossed his arms, looking amused.

      "I'm gay… Will you be okay with that?" 

      I could tell she was surprised. Her eyes told me enough, but then they faded into compassion.

      "I'm really glad you decided to tell me, Zac. I know it's not going to be easy…"

      No shit.

      I knew it wasn't going to be easy. Everyone who’d found out I’m gay had told me that. I knew the whole ”It will be hard but I'll support you” speech by heart.

      "I'm really happy you trust me enough to tell me that. I feel like a bridge is slowly being built between us."

      My thoughts turned on me. She didn't mind one bit. She was more concerned about how I felt toward her. I was liking her more and more.

      "I should get going. Good night, Zac," she said, smiling angelically.

      I watched the lady who had my dad on a leash and realized her feelings for him were real. I could deny it all I wanted, but she is my mother, and I wanted to know her.

      She turned to my dad. "Good night, Kevin."

      Dad gave me a wicked smile. He stepped up and kissed Diana. At first, she tried to resist him, but when she noticed I was smiling, she eased up. Even still, it must have been odd to have a kid like me watching them. I left them alone to say their goodbyes.  

***Brad*** 

      Of all the washrooms at our school, I happened to walk into the same one Zac Hunter chose to use. I didn't really have to go to the washroom. Class was just so boring that I had to get out before I fell asleep.

      Zac gave me a casual look and went back to washing his hands.

      I walked up to the next sink and took a look at my reflection. "Heard your party had some problems."

      Zac turned to me and commented, "Some uninvited guests."

      "People are saying there were some bashers there. I heard you stuck up for yourself quite pathetically," I derided him.

      "Well, next time let's put you between five drunk guys and let's see how well you stand up to them," he replied dryly.

      I hummed. "Five guys? Or five jocks? I bet you all they wanted was head, if their girlfriends were holding out. If I were you, I'd have defused the situation easily. It's a shame you let all that meat go to waste."

      I enjoyed seeing the horror on Zac's face.

      "Only you would do something like that!" he accused hoarsely, as his cheeks turned a slight crimson colour.

      "Oh, drop the innocent act, please! You'd do it, too, at the drop of a hat. Maybe with less of a crowd, of course."

      "Actually, not every gay guy is a slut," he said acidly.

      "Oh, so you finally are able to admit it publicly," I joked, referencing the fact that he had mentioned his sexuality.

      "Well, that’s all thanks to you, now, isn't it? By the way, I’ve been meaning to ask, why the fuck did you tell people I’m gay?"

      “It was a token of my friendship,” I bullshitted. “I figured you needed the help, and aren't you happy now that it's all in the open? I did you a favor." I smiled at him in the mirror.

      "Perhaps. Even still, it was none of your business whether I was out or not. I don't see what you could have possibly gained by outing me."

      He was right. There wasn't anything to gain; it was all for him to lose. I noticed the overall fame of Zac Hunter suffered for a day or two, but then he was almost as popular as he had been before. Maybe my sis was right.

      "I wish I could have been at that party," I told Zac, trying to elevate the tension. "Sounds like the fantastic four managed to keep the damage low, despite a useless fifth."

      I noticed that stuck a nerve, and I was enjoying the situation immensely.

      "You were invited. It was open to everyone in our grade." Zac turned to the dryer.

      "I had plans," I lied.

      He turned to me sharply. "Let's just get something straight. I know you don't like me. For whatever reasons, I don't care. I don't like you, either. So, why don’t we just put everything behind us? I can't trust you, and I know you won't trust me, but to prevent any potential drama, let's just stay away from each other." 
 "Easy for you to say," I laughed. "You're not the new one around here, are you? And after the shit I caused, no one wants to be around a guy like me."

      "Well, whose fault is that? If you wouldn’t treat everyone who approaches you like crap, maybe you'd have some friends. I guess that's sorta asking for too much, though, isn't it?"

      That was the real Zac Hunter. Not totally showing his colours, but the acid was there. He was baring his fangs at me.

      "Well, I know when people want to use me, and I don't stand for that. But, words are wasted on you, anyways. For a guy who deceives the whole school, your tactics are pretty impressive."

      He just stared at me. I knew I was right, and he knew I was right. Zac Hunter puts up a front.

      "You're saying we should just keep our hate private." I rephrased his proposal.

      "Oh, you have a brain, after all?" Zac said sarcastically.

      "Fine."

      "Good," Zac replied. “And on a final note, Kayden is mine. You try putting yourself between him and me, and I’ll kick your ass.” He gave me a brief nod and headed out.

      Threats from Zac, now. Not something I’d expected from the all-popular, all-nice Zac Hunter. I’m not scared. I’m going to get Kayden, even if it means ruining Zac.  

***Kayden*** 

      I woke up to one of the greatest feelings in the world.

      Zac must have realized I was awake, because he looked up at me.

      "Wow," was all I could say.

      He grinned and crawled up to me and gave me a morning kiss. I turned my head and saw the time.

      "Thanks for waking me up. I was having a dream that I was being attacked by quadratic functions."

      As always, my love's laughter brought the greatest warmth to my chest.

      Zac rested his head on my chest. "Two more exams."

      "Yup."

      Two exams were out of the way. Zac and I both had two more, and it was draining more energy out of me than I realized. It was funny how much of it returned when Zac started looking at me with his sexy eyes.

      "Two more before you leave…"

      "Zac…" I sighed and turned to my love.

      "I know," he replied. "As stressful as these past days have been, I'm going to miss them in a week."

      "It's not for a long time, Zac."

      "But still…"

      "And you're coming to Ottawa, right?"

      "I wouldn't miss it for the world. I guess it won't be bad. I'll be mostly training with Jett, to prepare for the junior triathlon."

      "Jett's doing it, too?"

      "Nah, he’d lose too much time in the swimming portion. He mostly sinks."

      We lay on the bed for several more minutes, just enjoying each other's company. I knew sooner or later we'd have to shower and get back to studying.

      "Why are the math and science exams last? And why are they within twenty-four hours of each other?" I complained.

      "It's to toughen us up before we go to college or university," my wise love answered.

      "But what good is preparing us if we can't pull the decent grades we need to get in?" I rebutted.

      "It forces us to overcome these obstacles. Trust me, Kade, it builds character." He winked.

      It was something his dad would say, and it probably was something his dad had said.

      Trying to get away from the subject of exams, and trying to extend our doing-nothing time, I began talking about the summer. "Any plans other than training for the triathlon?"

      "Swimming, as well. Plus, I'll probably be working more hours, since it's the summer. Other than that, just enjoying the summer with my friends. I'm going to enjoy at least two months of not having to see Brad."

      Surprisingly, Brad and Zac had never been openly hostile towards each other. Brad was being ignored by people, as usual, his cocky attitude definitely a turn off to many kids, regardless of how many really lusted for him.

      "What are you thinking?" Zac asked, nicking my chin with his thumb.

      "Wondering if we can go out and watch a movie or something, after exams," I made up.

      "Sounds like a plan. Everyone finishes before us, so I guess they'll be waiting on us."

      "I was thinking of limiting it to just the two of us. Sort of like spending the whole day with you."

      "Don't we already do that?"

      I gave him a look that told him I really wanted this.

      "I was just kidding." Zac rolled his eyes. "Jeez, grow a sense of humor."

      "I'll show you a sense of humor," I said, as I jumped on him and grabbed his sides.

      Zac's sides can be his biggest weakness and his biggest strength. He goes into a fit when I grab them, but grabbing them also turns him into a violent, kicking maniac.

      "St-stop!" Zac laughed as I trapped his legs with my own.

      "Do I need to grow a sense of humor?" I asked.

      He shook his head violently in the cutest manner. I couldn't help but lean forward and claim his lips. I felt his hands on my chest.

      "All right, scholar, time to get up and get ready. We gotta start studying."

      I groaned. 

*************

      "Fags!" someone hollered.

      I turned and saw a bunch of other students look around at the same time. I just sighed and kept walking with my friends.

      "If people are going to say shit, they might want to just come out and say it," Mai said, slightly annoyed. "And I don't see why they would care, unless they're hiding things about themselves."

      Shin's laugh echoed in the hallway. "They should be more creative, like fudge packer, or…"

      "Shin!" Jett chastened him.

      It was too late. Shin's voice was too loud and several people turned towards us and gave amused laughs.

      I turned to my boyfriend and noticed he was glowing a healthy shade of red.

      "They’d all better watch it," Scott brooded. "If I catch anyone saying any shit… Well, I don't know, but they better watch it."

      Scott no longer tries to pick fights. Not since he almost got the shit kicked out of him. Jett was with him at the time, but I think he held back just to teach our arrogant friend a lesson.

      "Are you two ready for your exam? I’ve heard nasty things about your teacher," Maya said.

      "Don't worry. He might seem like a zombie, but Mr. Freaks is a really good teacher," Zac commented.

      "I wonder if he had problems finding a wife, with a name like that," Lenne said.

      "You'd be surprised," I answered. "His wife is smoking hot. I saw a picture of them. I wonder how he pulled it off."

      Again, Shin's laugh echoed through the hallways. "Maybe he's packing something that…"

      "Shin, my God, stop!" That time, it was Maya.

      Mai simply took our Asian friend's hand and kissed it. He smiled brightly at her and that seemed to silence him completely. Thank God for Mai.

      "And?" Zac said finally. "Why are you guys here? Aren't your exams over?"

      "We're waiting for you two to finish so we can grab some lunch and hang out. Kayden and I leave in a few days. We need to hang around each other until we're sick of each other," Maya said, smiling at Kayden.

      Maya was leaving for the U.K. on a vacation with her family. She seemed pretty excited, as might be expected.

      "Hey, don't worry, you and Kayden can have your own day tomorrow. Just the two of you," Mai said.

      "But, why are you guys here? Why couldn't you stay at home or something?"

      "We wanted to cheer for you guys," Jett grinned. "Aren't you happy we came?"

      "You're an ass, you know that?" I shook my head while laughing at him. I felt happy my friends were willing to wait in the hellhole while Zac and I finished up our last exam.

      "Shouldn't you guys be cramming? That's why you came early, right?" Jett asked, raising his eyebrows.

      Zac and I mumbled as we headed towards the library.

      "We'll be at La Place, playing cards," Scott called out. To them, it was bright and shiny out. To Zac and me, it was the apocalypse.  

***Zac*** 

      "You realize this is going to be the longest we’ve been away from each other," my boyfriend whispered as we sat in the train terminal at Union Station.

      I just sat in silence. It was just the two of us. I was going to take the train back to Whitby, afterwards. Kade and I had spent the day just doing random things in Toronto, but our day was coming to a close.

      "Babe, don't be like that," Kade whispered as he placed his arm around my waist.

      "I'm not being like anything," I answered bitterly.

      Kayden sighed. "If you were so much against me leaving, why didn't you tell me? I could still stay."

      I was angry. I hated the way Kayden was putting me on the spot. He knew I would never let him stay if he really wanted to go. He knew he couldn't stay, yet he was making it even harder for me by saying I could make him stay.

      “I'm sorry. I shouldn't have said that. I really want to go, Zac. I won't deny it. I'm going, whether you want me to or not…"

      I turned curiously to the boy who held me. "What?"

      "I said I'm going, even if you want me to stay, Zac. This is too important to me. You're important, too, but for Christ's sake, Zac, I'm leaving for a month and a bit. I'm going to see you again. It's not like I'm choosing a career over you. Anything more than a month away from you, I'd say screw it. But really, Zac, you're just being childish."

      I couldn't believe what I was hearing. Kayden was lecturing me! There were so many things I wanted to say to him, but my mouth was frozen.

      "I’m right, you know. You're acting like a kid."

      I felt my face burn.

      "And like…" 

      “My life is so much more when I’m with you,” I interrupted. “I just want you to know that I don’t think I could have survived without you during the whole thing of Brad telling the school I’m gay. I’m going to miss you, so you’d better train hard.”

      “If it weren’t for me, Brad would have never known you’re gay. I’m a source of problems for you.” I was going to object to his statement, but he continued. “But, there’s nothing you can do about that, so you might as well get used to trouble brewing around me.” Kayden showed his perfect teeth with his smile.

   I found my mouth sealing his. I silenced any more words with a hungry kiss. I was angry, but at that moment, I found Kayden leaking sex appeal. 

***

      When Kayden's train was finally out of sight, it felt like a part of me had been ripped away. Nevertheless, I knew that the confidence in his words, the sternness of his voice, and the piercing stare of his eyes all meant that he would return to me. I knew he would be all right. It was like the part of me that had been ripped away was going to be by his side.  

***Brad*** 

      I heard the front door close as Eva placed a plate in front of me.

      "Thanks," I said, smiling at her.

      "You're welcome, dear." The crooked old lady gave me her million-dollar smile before moving down the table.

      I couldn't help but mimic her affection. I've known Eva ever since I can remember. She’s always been our housemaid, cook, and negotiator.

      Why do we need a negotiator? The reason had just walked in. The moment I saw my father, the smile brought by Eva was replaced by a cold glare.

      Eva took my father's coat and briefcase as he greeted my mother. She smiled at him and gave him a kiss, as he affectionately touched her arm and waist before taking his seat beside her. I guess my dad wasn't all that bad. He really loved my mother, and he showed it whenever he could.

      It took a while for him to realize I was there, though. "So…you're here." He stated the obvious as he placed the cloth napkin on his lap.

      "Guess I am." I smiled back superficially.

      My father nodded and asked, "Still gay?"

      "Still an asshole?" I shot back.

      We stared aggressively at each other before I felt a kick from my sister.

      "Trevor, not at the table," my mother said gently.

      "Brad, you promised me, kid," Kristen said to me.

      I turned away and faced the dinner rolls that were before me. I reach over and grabbed one.  
 My mother turned to me as if nothing had happened. "How is school, Brad? Do you see your old friends in Whitby?"

      "I never had friends in Whitby, remember?" I said, looking up at my mother.

      "I find that hard to believe!" Mom tilted her head. "Look at you. What about now? I’ll bet you have a lot more friends in school there than you had here."

      "Catholic schools are different from the private ones, Mom," Kristen cut in. "Brad's arrogance and superiority complex make people who aren't as rich as he is feel intimidated by him."

      "Oh…" Mom said sadly. "That's too bad."

      "Why don't we not talk about me while I'm here?" I cut in, while poking at some vegetables.

      "Oh, Brad, you're so cute when you're a bit angry." Mom crossed her hands and added, "Tell me, do you have…a partner?"

      Dad made a noise that caused me to turn sharply to him.

      "Something you want to share, Dad?" I challenged him.

      "No comment."

      Silence then occupied the dining hall for a while, as we ate.

      "Oh, Kristen!" my mother suddenly burst out, "I found out what happened to Rachel!"

      "Really?" my sister answered, chewing a piece of meat. "Why did she suddenly quit the country club? Did she get too wealthy?"

      "No such thing. Remember that her husband died?"

      "I recall," Kristen answered. "Oh, he was the snazzy one, right? The one who always dressed so nicely?"

      Mom raised her shoulders as if she’d just felt a chill. "He was strikingly handsome."

      At that moment, Dad cleared his voice, and I chuckled.

      "So, she quit because her husband died?" my sister asked.

      "Well, she did go to the club once or twice after the death," Mom said, and then took a sip of water. "Remember the times when she looked like she’d barely gotten any sleep? After that, her son ran away, and she stopped going."

      "Oh, my God, that’s horrible," Sis said, putting her fork down. I was done, too. I didn't feel hungry, but I knew Eva was going to bring me my favorite dessert. Even after I took junk food out of my diet, once in a while I would indulge in her vanilla ice cream sundaes. They were orgasmic.

      "Her son must have been a fairy, too." Dad smirked as he took a sip of his wine.

      I lurched forward and stood up, bumping the table. "Something you want to say to me, Dad? It's like you're trying to pick a fight with me."

      "Sit down, Brad. I was joking." Dad smiled smugly. He knew exactly the right things to say to piss me off. My sister gave me a pleading look and I noticed mom whispering to dad. Whatever she said made him return to eating his food.

      "Brad? Are you finished with your food?" Eva asked me as she walked in with a smile.

      I sat back down and smiled at her. "Yes. Thanks, Eva."

      Her eyes almost disappeared with the bigger smile she gave me. "I'll go get your dessert."

      "So, her son ran away? What a mom, eh?" Kristen joked.

      "Maybe he just needed to let off some steam," I remarked. "Like how I'm not living here, anymore."

      "Dear, you wanted to leave. It was your choice. I wanted you to stay." Mom smiled at me.

      I turned to my father, who gave me a tight-lipped smile before going back to his food. "Yeah, I guess it's a good thing I left."

      "But I can't imagine why her son would leave." Kristen cupped her face with her hands. "Poor Rachel."

      "Well, she's been spending her time trying to locate her son. Spent almost a hundred thousand trying to track him down." Mom continued to talk while cutting her meat. "Such an unusual name for a boy. Kayden, I believe his name is."

      "What?" I asked.

      Kristen looked at me. "What? Spent a hundred thousand looking for him?"

      "Did you say Kayden?" I asked my mom.

      "Yes, I believe that's his name. He's about a year younger than you. Might he be someone you know, dear? Did he go to your school at St. E?"

      St. E is short for my old school, St. Elizabeth Secondary High School. The shocking news had me almost choking on my spit.

      My parents and sister were looking at me, so I quickly smiled. "No, can't be. The only Kayden I know is five years older than me."

      "Well, it surely isn't that boy, then. Rachel’s Kayden is still just a boy," Mom said, turning back to Kristen. "Anyhoo, I was just…"

      I smiled at Eva when she placed a vanilla-chocolate sundae in front of me.

      Suddenly, I knew what I wanted to do. The mystery of Rachel’s Kayden was going to be solved…by me.

   This can’t be the same Kayden… Can it? 
 

END OF CHAPTER 10 

© March 2006 by Ryan Keith      Ryan_Kayden@Rogers.com 
 

Ryan's Corner!     March 11, 2006

 

What’s up!

   So…worst semester is history is about to come to a close…Taking 6 courses was a bad idea, now I have 6 exams to study for, 4 of which are on the first 4 days…. HOW THE HELL AM I GOING TO STUDY!

   Who knows, I’ll deal with it when it happens, lol. One day my lack of care for inevitable chaos is going to bite me in the ass ;)

   So…Brad… He may be on to something. Some one sorta guessed the direction I was going at but then flew off on a tangent, lol. For a second I thought maybe the story was getting a bit predicatable. The last couple of chapters have been a bit lax, but then again, stuff can’t be happening all the time right? I actually felt bad for Kayden and Zac with the constant drama popping up, so I’m giving them a break…It will end soon though J

   So the winner did get the special gift of reading this chapter first. Not a great gift since nothing too important happens here.  
   This actually happened to a party I had lol. Not gay bashing as it was for Zac, but rather a drunk person calling up another friend from another school. One thing led to another, and suddenly cars were flowing into my street. We did break out the shinais and it was a blast smacking random people with no regard (Hey if people were smashing stuff in your house, you’d do it too!).

   Great…now people are going to think I’m some sort of nut kid who held mad house parties.

   Anyway, hoped you enjoyed the chap. Don’t remember if this is late, lol, I’ve been busy :P but I hope it wasn’t, and hoped you guys enjoyed it. Give me a shout. Maybe discuss in the yahoo group any mad parties people had (and went bad lol).  

Cheerz 

RY^! 

p.s.   Thanks to my editor Aaron and thanks to that gang of his at The Mail Crew for hosting my stories. They do great work, so be sure to check out their site. They’ve got awesome stories by very talented authors. Thanks, also, to premiere story sites AwesomeDude and DeweyWriter for hosting my stories.