Beats of the Heart - Chapter 44: Chapter 44

Miles tugged at his tie and rolled his shoulders in his uncomfortable suit. He had just made some money from one of his records and could barely afford a decent suit, but it was a little tight. He could feel it pull at his shoulders. He frowned a little, unsure if it was the suit that was uncomfortable or the party he was at.
He didn't know why he agreed to attend the Andersons' Christmas Eve party.  He hardly spoke to his biological father, but Nan had insisted in hopes that a relationship could be built between them all. Although he had already anticipated the result, he found it difficult to refuse her.
He tried not to judge the people around him, but it wasn't easy. Those around his age were bragging about the things their parents bought them for Christmas while he was standing in a second-hand suit, hoping that he could pay rent. He couldn't relate to this world of privilege. When someone stopped to ask him which company he was entering after college, he didn't know what to say. He would never join his father's company even if it were offered.
He just smiled and said something vague like, "I'm working toward my master's degree at this point, so I have time to decide."
It was still the wrong answer because he needed to embellish or brag about his father's company. He was irked that no one dared to mention their own achievements. No one seemed to care about making an effort or paving their road.  They all will go into their parents' companies. They already have an easy path laid out for them.
These people never knew struggle or pain.
He pulled himself away from the group, unwilling to speak to them again. His gaze found Will speaking with a few peers on the other side of the room. He had his father pay for some elite college and was getting an MBA. However, Miles knew that he didn't earn it. It was all a facade, much like everyone else here.
He sighed and found Larry with his wife, Madeline, and their young son, Danny. He had met Danny once before. He was a quiet child and looked up at Miles like he was a monster. He was quick to hide behind his mother.
But something was charming about the kid. His hair was a blonde mess of curls, and he had bright, inquisitive green eyes. He was about eight years old and wearing a suit that didn't match his age.
The young child tried to stand up straight while the adults talked around him. He was tired but hid the yawns, trying to escape. Miles looked at his watch and frowned. It was nearly ten o'clock. Why would they force a kid to stay up for this?
He watched Danny fail at hiding his last yawn, making Larry pause and look at his son darkly.
Miles could hear Larry's cold voice from across the way. "Are we boring you?"
Danny looked frightened and quickly shook his head. He stepped back out of fright but bumped into a woman. She yelped and dropped her champagne glass. The liquid drenched little Danny, and the glass shattered around him.
Danny was bright red, and his eyes glistened with tears.
"I'm sorry," he whispered.
Larry was rageful. "You little—"
"How about I take him back to his room," Miles interrupted as he quickly approached them.
"He shouldn't have been so careless. He may have harmed Ms. Townsend," Madeline said curtly.
Miles was furious that they would worry about some random woman over their shivering son. He pushed back his irritation and smiled. "Ms. Townsend surely wouldn't place blame on a child. It's Christmas Eve, so it's obvious that kids would be excitable." He turned toward the woman. "Are you harmed anywhere?"
The woman blushed. "Oh, I'm quite alright."
Miles' smile grew, charming her more. "A beautiful woman with an equally beautiful temperament."
This caused her to giggle. "Oh, such a charmer."
Miles chuckled and held a hand out for Danny. Danny hesitated for only a second and rushed to Miles' protection.
"I'll take Danny back now," Miles explained with a quick nod toward his father.
As he was walking away, he could hear Ms. Townsend ask Larry. "Who is that young man."
Larry huffed. "No one. Just the help."
Miles felt a ripple of sadness run through him. He had reunited with this part of his family two years ago, but they were still detached. He finally understood that he would never be accepted.
When they left the ballroom, the young boy tugged at his hand, pulling Miles from his negative thoughts. "Thank you," he whispered with a flushed face.
Miles' heart wavered. He had wanted to avoid this child as much as possible because he was just another Anderson. But one look had weakened his resolve.
Miles took off his jacket and knelt before Danny. He wrapped it around Danny's trembling body.
"Are you sure you didn't do it on purpose?" Miles asked with a smile.
Danny's eyes widened, and he shook his head frantically.
Miles' warm laughter made Danny pause. "Then it was a happy coincidence. I wanted to leave, and you gave me a good opportunity. Good job."
Danny faltered, and then a light giggle escaped his lips. "You're bad, Miles."
"The absolute worst, kiddo," Miles said with a smile. He mussed Danny's wet hair playfully. "How about a piggyback ride to your room?"
"What's that?" Danny asked shyly.
Miles' heart broke for Danny. Miles didn't have the happiest childhood but still knew things like piggyback rides. All preconceived notions to keep his distance melted away. "Climb onto my back."
Danny bit his lip and tentatively climbed up. Miles picked him up and spun him quickly. Danny's giggles turned to fits of unrestrained laughter.
The mature mask Danny tried to maintain with Larry had disappeared, and he was just a young kid with his big brother.
Miles happily led him down the hall, relishing his kid brother's innocent laughs and exclamations.
Shawn was dressed in a black suit at the other end of the hall, watching the happy pair. They were too far away, so he couldn't see who they were or hear them, but they made him smile. The kid was wrapped in an oversized jacket, and his brother carried him carefully. They seemed to have a strong bond, and he lamented he was an only child.
He smiled to himself. Perhaps he should visit his uncle and spend time with his young cousin, Courtney.
••••••Eight years before Shawn and Miles reunited••••••
This was a mistake. That was all Miles could think about. However, when Scott Gibson from Aura Entertainment wanted to meet in person, Miles found it hard to say no. He started Dirge with just Requiem under his name, but he had found Phase, who he eventually signed.
He often wondered if he could manage his small group well. Phase loved working with Dirge and felt that Miles greatly understood DJs, so he was never tempted to leave. However, Aura's offer was enticing, and Miles wanted to know more about it.
But now he stood outside Aura with a nervousness that didn't befit him. With a deep breath, he opened the door of Aura's lobby and tried to swallow his fears. He stiffly approached the counter, and a kind man greeted him.
"Good morning. Do you have an appointment?"
Miles nodded stiffly. "Uh, yes. For Miles Mendez."
The man typed up his information, but there was a commotion behind him. Miles turned and saw Shawn Pierce enter the lobby. He had a long peacoat over a sleek suit and looked flawless. The great actor, Jaxon Reid, was walking next to them and they seemed to be close friends.
Miles' hand clenched into a fist, and he was tempted to approach him, but it would kill him if Shawn greeted him with a generic polite smile and zero recognition.
As Shawn started to look over in Miles' direction, Miles turned back around and kept his head down. He had held on to Shawn's number for so long in his wallet but never called. He wanted to make a name for himself, but after Larry's threats, he disguised himself as Requiem and kept Miles Mendez in the shadows.
Shawn was the type of man who could casually walk alongside someone like Jaxon. The person he was now wasn't powerful enough to call out to Shawn.
Maybe Miles Mendez wasn't good enough to join Aura, either. Not yet, anyway. He had only won one award, so perhaps he could increase his accolades. Maybe then he could ensure Shawn would never forget him.
"Actually," Miles said quietly to the man at the counter. "I will have to cancel my meeting. I've had an emergency that I cannot neglect. I will contact him at a later time."
He turned and walked away, hating himself for being so weak.
"Mr. Mendez!" The man called out, but Miles ignored him.
Shawn turned toward the man at the counter, wondering why he called out. His eyes followed a man who was walking out the door. He was curious about the interaction. He went to the counter and greeted the man.
"Everything alright?" He asked.
The attendant sighed. "Sorry about that, Mr. Pierce. That was Mr. Mendez from Dirge Records. He came in for a meeting but suddenly canceled it. He said some emergency came up."
"Dirge Records? That's the one with that DJ that's making waves. Requiem, right?"
The attendant nodded. "That's right."
Shawn pursed his lips. "That's a shame. Scott had been trying to secure this meeting for half a year. I'll give him the bad news."
Shawn looked back at the door where the man left. For some reason, Shawn felt he missed out on something life-changing.
••••••Seven years before Shawn and Miles reunited••••••
Miles rushed into the auditorium, fearful that he would be late. He sighed with relief as he heard the chatter of the audience. He looked down at his ticket and found his reserved seat, grinning, knowing Danny got him a ticket in one of the front rows.
Phase had a show today, so he needed to help prepare for that, but he left early to make it to Danny's school. He adjusted his tie with one hand while the other held a small bouquet of flowers.
He nodded politely to his seatmates and watched the stage anxiously. He had stood on the stage countless times and helped his new DJ, Phase, perform. However, there was something nerve-wracking about Danny performing A Christmas Carol for his school.
His leg bounced as he waited, which drew the attention of one of his neighbors.
"Your kid is performing?" The woman asked kindly.
Miles shook his head. "My kid brother. He worked so hard for this, but I'm more nervous than he is."
The woman chuckled. "I know the feeling. I was a wreck when my son, Rob, started volunteering for these plays. Somehow, these kids are more resilient than us adults."
"Who would have thought?" Miles said with a laugh. "Who is Rob playing?"
The woman sighed. "Scrooge. He was so excited about it, too."
Miles laughed. "That's great. Danny's the Ghost of Christmas Present."
The woman's eyes lit you. "Oh! Danny's your brother? You must be Miles."
Miles was surprised. Few knew he was related to the Andersons, and Larry kept his affair under wraps. Miles was simply a ghost.
The woman noticed his surprise and patted his arm. "Danny and Rob are good friends, so he is often at my house. He talks about you all the time."
Miles was worried about the Andersons knowing he was here and tried to hide his discomfort behind his smile.
The woman smiled. "I know you don't have the best relationship with Larry, but to tell you the truth, I don't either. Danny's a good kid, though. I'm glad he's friends with Rob."
Miles sighed with relief. "I'm happy he has good friends."
"According to Rob, this is the first time Danny volunteered for something like this. He never wanted to do a performance without his family watching. But he leaped for this chance when you promised him you would watch."
Miles' smile was sad. He remembered that conversation. He endured another painful dinner with Larry but snuck off with Danny like usual. Danny had talked about the play and how people were auditioning for parts. Miles asked if he was auditioning as well, but Danny paused nervously. His eyes were downcast when he asked Miles if he would watch his performance, and Miles didn't hesitate when he said he would. He would never forget how that simple promise lit up Danny's eyes.
"I wouldn't miss it for the world," Miles told the woman.
She gave his arm an affectionate squeeze as the lights dimmed and the curtains parted, revealing a snowy backdrop. Miles waited in anticipation to see his brother appear.
There was something innocently precious about the young children tripping over their lines, so he cheered them on. When Danny came out as the second spirit, Miles clapped loudly. Danny looked down at the audience and saw Miles. He waved enthusiastically at him, his blonde curls bouncing with the excited movement. Miles chuckled and waved back.
Danny didn't go backstage when the play was over like the other kids. He rushed off the stage and jumped into Miles' arms.
"I remembered all my lines!" He said happily. "I thought I would forget, but I did it!"
Miles kissed the top of his head and spun him. "You were amazing. You can get a career on the stage."
He set Danny back on the ground and kneeled to be at eye level with him. He then handed Danny the flowers, making him giggle.
"I'm so proud of you," Miles said. "You worked hard for this, kiddo. Good job."
Danny blushed and hid behind the flowers. "You're so mushy, Miles."
"Only with you," Miles said with a wink. "Don't tell anyone."
Danny giggled but was pulled away by a boy his age. The woman he was sitting with laughed at the scene. "That's my son, Rob. Danny was going to spend the night and weekend at my place. Is that alright?"
Miles smiled and nodded. "Yeah. I'm sure he'll have a blast."
He ignored his phone buzzing to watch his brother run around his friends. Unlike those terrible dinners he forced himself to attend, Danny was so free at this moment, and he wanted to savor it.
Danny came back and hugged him. "I'm going to Rob's now. When will I see you again."
"Whenever you want, kiddo," Miles said and hugged the small boy tightly. "Have fun, and don't cause too much trouble."
He walked them out of the auditorium and ensured the family and Danny safely arrived at their car. He said goodbye to them and sighed happily. He was stressed by taking care of Phase and the venue all day today, then rushing here. But it was worth it.
He would find Danny's happiness would always be worth it.
As he was about to get into his car, he heard a young girl shriek with happiness. He turned to the noise and saw a man hugging a girl tightly. Miles recognized the young girl as the one who played the Ghost of Christmas Past.
"You were great, Courtney," the man said, and Miles felt like lightning struck him. He knew that voice, but there was no way Shawn Pierce would be here of all places. He has read all of Shawn's interviews and knew he was an only child with no children. Why would he be here?
Miles watched them, but the man's back faced him. He could only make out that he was tall and built in a gorgeous suit.
He was frozen by his car as the man and the girl walked away. They never turned around, so Miles couldn't confirm that he was truly Shawn. He pulled out a phone and saw a few messages from Eve about Phase's show that was still ongoing. With a shake of his head, he got into his car and drove away.
Shawn buckled in Courtney in his car and smiled warmly toward her. Being a part of her life was a blessing, and he was happy he made the effort to do so. As he stood back up, he turned around, feeling like someone was watching him. However, all that greeted him was a car's tail lights. He shook off the feeling and left the auditorium.
••••••Six years before Shawn and Miles reunited••••••
Shawn sighed as he reviewed another report that was sitting on his desk. He couldn't look at another number for the night. He rubbed his eyes and leaned back in his chair. He would be 40 soon, and all he had was this job. His flings and temporary relationships held no appeal to him anymore. He hated to admit that he was lonely.
It was nights like these where he wondered about the 'what ifs.' Unfortunately, that would lead to the one man who had haunted him for years—a young man sitting at a bar who was beautiful beyond words.
Miles.
What would have happened if they met at another time? What if he had called?
Shawn stacked the reports carefully, deciding that a drink would better suit his needs than work.
He left Aura and drove to a small bar he frequented when he didn't want to deal with the bustle of the Lunar. He had to walk about a block to the bar but kept his eyes downcast toward the sidewalk. He just didn't want to deal with people today. His social battery had been completely drained.
As he was walking, he heard someone running past him and then another person sharply running into his shoulder.
"Fuck!  Sorry!" The person who ran into him said quickly. His voice was deep and smooth, compelling Shawn to look up, but the man was already chasing the other person.
"Stop, you fucking thief!" The man yelled, which cleared up why they were running.
The man who hit him had a sudden burst of speed and tackled the thief.
"You have a death wish trying to rob me," the man snarled and punched the thief. Shawn was about to walk toward him to ensure he was okay, but someone grabbed his shoulder.
"I figured you were going to be coming here," Scott said, turning Shawn back around.
Shawn sighed. "Couldn't escape you, huh?"
Scott chuckled. "Would you mind a drinking companion?"
Shawn chuckled and shook his head.  Scott took the initiative, wrapped an arm around Shawn's shoulders, and led him away.
Miles climbed off the thief with his wallet in hand. He opened it and made sure the picture of his mom was still safe. He also pulled out a white and worn business card with a CEO's number that he had memorized.
"Are you going to call the cops?" The thief asked while rubbing his bruising cheek.
"Fuck the cops. I got my shit back, so I'm alright." Miles said with a shrug.
The thief sighed. "Damnit." He tapped his fingers nervously, but Miles recognized the movements.
"You play an instrument?"
"I'm a DJ,"  the thief said quietly.
Miles raised an eyebrow. "Really? Why are you pulling this pickpocketing shit?"
"Not everyone is Requiem and can make a buck off their music."
Miles shrugged. "That's true. You any good?"
The thief chuckled. "I'm fucking great."
"Hopefully, it's better than your pickpocketing skills. Care to show me?" Miles asked while holding out a hand to help him up.
"Why? What can you do for me?" The thief was skeptical but still took Miles' hand.
"Who knows? Show me your skills, and we'll see," Miles said with a grin. "I'm Miles."
The thief sighed. "They call me Quake."
••••••Five years before Shawn and Miles reunited••••••
Miles was worn out from the long day. He now had three DJs working under him and a possible fourth if Quake wasn't lying about Flux's skills. However, the larger his small company grew, the harder it was to remember what he wanted to do. Dirge was just a means for him to make records for Requiem, but he was finding it hard to say no to DJs with raw talent. He could help them, so why should he say no?
But dealing with contracts and the legal jargon was draining. He needed a break. All he wanted to do was lock himself away in his small studio and make music. But he couldn't find the energy to touch the turntables. No tonight.
He walked down the Manhattan streets as the sky was starting to darken, but his feet faltered in front of a building. He looked up and saw the sleek sign with a pale crescent moon that said "The Lunar" in an elegant script.
He hadn't stepped into this club in many years.  The neon signs have long been removed, and they have taken a minimalist approach to their outside decor. Miles knew they had different themes each night, which were posted on their website, but never paid attention to them. He claimed he never really cared about The Apple's competition, letting Eve and Desmond handle it, but he knew he was too frightened to remember that night long ago.
This was where so many things started for him—his second chance in life, his hope for humanity, his dream to continue and make a name for himself. He wanted to stand at the pinnacle of music because he may be worthy of the man who stood at the peak of business.
He laughed at himself. Shawn Pierce, the man who had permanent residence in his mind, had risen too quickly. He now was too far for Miles to reach.
He shook his head and was about to walk away, but someone had opened the door to the club, and beautiful jazz music spilled into the streets.  Like a siren, he was lured to it. Because the night was still early, he didn't have to stand in line for too long and talk himself out of his decision.
He showed the bouncer his ID and was let into the club. Miles held back a gasp. Seven years had substantially changed this club. It was vast with dark wood paneling. Typically, this would make the room look smaller, but mirrors expertly placed on the walls expanded the area. The bar was dark, elegant wood with a backdrop of the best liquor lining the walls. Beautiful tables and lounge chairs were placed on the dance floor, facing a stage worthy of Carnegie Hall.
On the stage was a jazz band that Miles was familiar with, Lou's. They were improvising and enjoying playing music according to their whims. As a DJ, Miles was intimately familiar with this style. He had to improvise constantly in his performances, changing his sets according to the audience's reception.
He was surprised to see a beautiful man sitting with Lou's band at a piano. Based on his memory, Lou's didn't have a pianist. Considering how well he integrated himself with the band, Miles assumed he was a new addition.
He scanned the area, perhaps looking for the person he had longed for. But he approached the bar when he couldn't see the person he secretly hoped for.  He was happy to see the same bartender from all those years ago. Although the bartender couldn't remember him, Miles treated him kindly and tipped him well after receiving his bourbon.
"The pianist is impressive," Miles said to the bartender. "I haven't seen him play before."
The bartender grinned. "That's Alex. He is a bartender here but too talented to be slinging drinks for the rest of his life."
"He really is talented," he murmured.
"Grab a seat up front. His singing is more impressive than his piano."
Miles lamented that he only specialized in DJs. He would happily sign someone who could play the piano or sing if he had the resources. Then again, that would drain more time out of his day, and he would be unable to work on his own music.
Miles nodded toward the bartender and slipped past the people starting to fill the club. He found an inconspicuous table off to the side and watched the show while sipping his drink.
The music was pleasing and precisely what he needed after the long day. But when Alex changed the flow and started to sing, Miles was floored. This man looked gentle, but his song was powerful. His voice was rich and carried throughout the club. And heavens... the emotion behind it all made his heart race.
Miles was raised in a household that worshiped the classics—those who set the bar for all other artists. He listened to records made with shitty technology but could not obscure the shining talent of the singer. This man, this Alex, was truly an uncut gem. How far could he go with his emotional songs?
Also, as a man who specialized in music of all genres and had become intimate with countless songs, he immediately knew that the song Alex was singing was not a cover. This was his own song, which made it more substantial.
Miles fished one of his business cards. Yes, he worked with DJs, but there was no way he could allow a voice like this to fall into the void. He had made some connections with small recording studios and agencies. Perhaps he could set Alex up with one of them.
He sighed lightly. This man deserved more than what Dirge could offer. He needed someone like Aura. Miles faltered. After all this time, would he find the courage to call Shawn Pierce? Could he do it for an artist if not himself?
He picked up his phone and dialed the number he memorized long ago, unsure if Shawn had kept it the same. As he was about to hit the call button, he froze.
Shawn Pierce walked confidently down the stairs from the VIP area as if his thoughts materialized the man. He was in a sharp blue suit, and his hair was styled impeccably. His dark eyes scanned the room and landed on a nervous-looking man.
Shawn smiled, and Miles wished that it was directed toward him. It brightened his features and made him simply enchanting.
Although Alex was still singing a powerful song, Miles couldn't hear it anymore. Instead, he was focused on Shawn. He watched Shawn shake hands with the other man and lead him toward the seating area.  Miles tensed as Shawn and the man settled at a nearby table. He was only ten feet away.
Miles could call out to him, but this wasn't an ordinary meeting. Shawn seemed to be working, so Miles paused his rash thoughts. He sipped his drink again, observing Shawn leading the conversation.
He could hear bits of their dialogue.  Shawn smiled warmly and asked the man, "Are you currently with an agency?"
The other man shook his head. "Alex and I parted ways with LuxStar together."
Miles sighed with relief.  This man must be representing Alex, and Shawn wanted to sign him. He didn't need to go out of his way, so he pocketed his phone, the number left uncalled.
Parts of the conversation were drowned out, but Miles watched intently as Shawn gently probed the agent.
"So you're not getting paid, but you took your artist in, searched for jobs, and are now trying to arrange a contract for him," Shawn said with a small smile. "For someone so devoted to his artist, why would I consider splitting you two? I have a feeling Alex would have a strong word about that as well."
The agent smiled while looking at Alex. "He's been through some hard times, but he has truly grown. He deserves the absolute best offer, but he must make that choice himself. I can propose a meeting to review a contract, but it will be his decision, not mine."
Shawn handed him a business card. "I can respect that. Please save my number, and I hope to talk soon."
The two men remained in their seats, watching the show. However, Miles was paralyzed in his seat. He could not bear to look away.
He stayed in place as the set ended, and Alex said his goodbyes to the crowd. Shawn shook the agent's hand once again and got up to leave.
Miles stood up as well, his voice catching in his throat.
"Shawn," he weakly called out but then flushed. It was far too loud for Shawn to hear. Besides, it seemed he was getting ready to work again, considering how he talked to Alex's agent. He probably didn't remember Miles anyway, so Shawn would probably assume he was some crazed fan.
He sighed and shook his head. Why tarnish his old memories? Instead, he walked away quickly, hoping to escape the Lunar and his depressing thoughts. This wasn't the first time he acted on cowardice and fear, and he hated himself for it.
However, he didn't realize Shawn heard his name being called. He looked up from his phone and turned toward the voice after sending a message.  He couldn't see anyone he recognized, but his eyes lingered on a man walking away briskly.  He was curious about the man but set it aside to work on drafting a new contract for Alex and his agent.
Shawn didn't want to linger at the Lunar. He needed to return to his office and wake Scott to help him. His steps paused at the bar, and his gaze was locked on a stool he had sat on seven years ago. He often wondered what happened to the beautiful young man from before... Miles. No matter how much he wished for it, he never called.
Shawn sighed and rubbed his eyes. He couldn't dwell on missed connections. He needed to sign a new artist before someone like Eclipse sunk their hooks in him.
••••••Four years before Shawn and Miles reunited••••••
Shawn had snuck into The Apple for the first time. Being friends with Nick had made him avoid it for a long time, but Nick had convinced him to go. He had heard a Dirge DJ was performing, meaning Mr. Mendez could be there. Because Scott was dealing with another task, Shawn came instead.
Aura has succeeded in many aspects but has been outshined by the small company Dirge. They had a monopoly over influential DJs. Shawn had no idea how it happened, but he was impressed nonetheless. No wonder Scott had been diligently trying to work with Dirge.
Shawn wore casual clothes to blend in; however, people still were drawn to him. He carried himself with a purpose, which attracted people's gazes.
He stood off to the side of the club, listening to the DJ, who introduced herself as Flux. She had a strong house style that influenced the club. Many people were dancing and grinding on the dance floor.
Shawn wasn't much of a dancer and felt his age amongst the crowd, so he declined the men and women who asked him to join them. He knew this night was a bust, mainly because he didn't know what Mr. Mendez looked like. The chance they would meet was low, especially in the club. However, he promised Scott he would try.
Shawn looked around the club and felt that time stilled. It was for half a second, but he swore he saw the face he had dreamt about for years across the dance floor—gorgeous dark skin, amber eyes, delicate features.
"Miles," he murmured.
Scott had teased him countless times for pining over a man who probably didn't exist. But he was here.
He pushed through the crowd, ignoring the hands pulling at him. He knew he saw Miles. It had to be him. He moved as quickly as possible, but it seemed like he was wading through water.
He cursed when he reached the spot he thought he saw Miles. He looked around frantically, hoping for another glance. He was tall, but he still couldn't find him in the sea of people.
He didn't know how long he searched, but his heart sank as Flux exited the stage and Requiem announced himself. Everyone screamed and flooded the dancefloor, pushing Shawn further to the side. The lights darkened and flashed, making it impossible to discern any notable faces.
Shawn cursed. He lost his chance. But he was here. Everything inside of him screamed this.
A hand patted him on the shoulder, and a familiar woman smiled at him. "Mr. Pierce. I'm Eve, one of the owners of The Apple."
Shawn hid his distress and smiled. "Great place you have her, Eve. And please, call me Shawn."
Eve nodded. "If you would like, I have a VIP area if you want to relax there."
Shawn sighed, taking one last look over the crowd. His eyes settled on Requiem, who was behind the turntables. He wore a mask and a sheer shirt, showing off his many tattoos. His body was beautiful, lean, and sensual, but he wasn't Miles.
Shawn reluctantly nodded. "That would be great. Thank you, Eve."
Shawn watched Requiem hypnotize the crowd, knowing why he was so popular. He seemed to have placed everyone under a spell with his music. However, Shawn's eyes still wandered to the crowd, hoping to see Miles one last time.
••••••Two years before Shawn and Miles reunited••••••
Miles had rushed into the hospital. He was pale, and his eyes were frantic. He hated hospitals and avoided them as much as possible, but he couldn't shy away this time.
He reached the nurse's desk. "Excuse me. I'm looking for Danny Anderson's room. I'm his brother."
The nurse looked through her records and nodded patiently. "Looks like the surgery went well, and he is just leaving the recovery room. You can see him in room 2201."
"Thank you," Miles hurriedly said and took off to the room. He found it relatively easy, but his steps slowed as he approached. He looked around for the Andersons but felt rage boil inside him when he couldn't find them.
He stopped a nurse who was walking down the hall. "Excuse me. I'm Danny's brother, from room 2201. Is anyone else here with him?"
The nurse pursed her lips. "No. Your father and mother left once the surgeon told them the news."
Miles clenched his fists. "They didn't even wait for him to leave recovery? They didn't see him at all?"
The nurse shook her head, obviously angry about it as well.
"Motherfuckers," Miles breathed out.
The nurse sighed and patted his arm. "You're his brother?"
Miles nodded.
"I'll take you to him."
Miles followed her numbly and felt his heart break as he saw Danny in a hospital gown and hooked up to wires.
"What... what happened?" He only received a vague text from one of Danny's friends that he was rushed to the hospital. It took him hours to find information on which hospital.
"He had acute appendicitis; however, the appendectomy went well. He will be groggy for a little and will stay here for about two days for observation." She said gently. "He must rest for a few weeks before returning to normal activities."
Miles absentmindedly nodded as he sat by Danny's bed and held his hand.  "God, he must have been in pain."
"He was a trooper, honestly. He joked with the nurses and kept up his spirits." The nurse patted his shoulder. "Visiting hours will be ending soon, but I'm the night shift nurse, so don't worry about leaving so soon. Call me if you need me."
Miles shuddered, holding back his tears. "Thank you so much."
He never wanted to see Danny like this—not in a hospital bed like his mom. He rested his head on the bed and tightened his grip on Danny's hand.
"Miles?" Danny's slurred voice jostled Miles from his dark thoughts.
Miles smiled and looked up. "Hey, kiddo."
"You're here," Danny smiled happily.
"You scared the ever-loving shit out of me," Miles tearfully said.
Danny clumsily patted Miles' head. "Sorry... but I'm happy you're here."
"Me too, kiddo."
"Do I have to stay here?" Danny asked with a pout.
Miles nodded. "A couple of days."
Danny groaned. "That's going to be so boring."
Miles chuckled. "I'll bring you a tablet so you can download all those books you like to read."
"You're my hero," Danny murmured.
Miles stood and kissed Danny's forehead. "Nah, kiddo. You've saved me more than you know."
Danny smiled but then made a discontent noise. "I want to sleep, but the beeps are loud."
"How about I sing for you? Just focus on my voice," Miles offered.
When he saw Danny nod, he gently sang.
Just down the hall from Miles, Shawn was hunched in a chair outside of his mom's hospital room. She had been feeling sick for a while, and now they had confirmed she had cancer. It was treatable at this point, though. They still had hope.
Still, it was terrifying. Shawn wiped the tears that were stubbornly falling. He had been close to his parents and cared for them dearly. His mind was jumbled, and he didn't know what to do. He had spent his life organized and orderly. However, he suddenly had the floor ripped out from under him.
He shuddered with his face hidden in his hands. But amid his turmoil, a deep and resonant voice trickled down the hall. He lifted his head and stared in the direction of the voice.
"Etta James?" He asked himself as he listened to the familiar tune. He was surprised to hear someone singing one of her songs here, especially so beautifully.
As the CEO of Aura, he would have tried to recruit this man who was singing, but today, he couldn't bear to do so. Instead, he closed his eyes and savored the soothing voice. The man sang several songs, and Shawn listened to each one until his tears had finally dried.
In this moment, he was grateful to the unknown singer who provided comfort and kindness when he needed it the most.
••••••Six months before Shawn and Miles reunited••••••
Danny stood in his cap and gown at the podium, looking so comfortable addressing his peers. "To end my speech, I will have to borrow the words of the great author, Neil Gaiman. I hope that in this year to come, you make mistakes. Because if you are making mistakes, then you are making new things, trying new things, learning, living, pushing yourself, changing yourself, changing your world. You're doing things you've never done before, and more importantly, you're doing something.
"This is the first step of our journey, so I challenge you to strive to be better versions of yourself. Congratulations, everyone. We did it."
The auditorium rang with applause, Miles more enthusiastic than the others. Danny was magnificent. He had waited for this day for a while. He knew Larry and Will would be out of town, and Madeline would not show up alone. Although he ached for Danny, he was happy to see Danny without facing them.
He cheered loudly as Danny received his diploma, and when he saw Danny grin, he knew he had heard him. Danny may have been his half-brother, but he was his closest family.
When the high school graduates dispersed, Miles rushed to find Danny. He saw the mess of blonde curls and picked Danny up in a tight embrace. Danny laughed heartily and wrapped his arms around Miles.
"You were fucking brilliant, kiddo," Miles said.
Danny chuckled. "I know I messed up here and there, but I think it was okay."
Miles set him back down and cupped his checks. "You're amazing. Congratulations."
"Well, I knew you graduated top of your class too. What was your speech like?" Danny asked.
Miles laughed and shook his head. "It was inelegant. I'm pretty sure I said something like 'we fucking survived,' and that was it."
Danny laughed. "Well, next stop. Columbia."
Miles swelled with pride. "You're going to conquer that place easily. You got the living arrangements set up?"
Danny nodded. "Yup. I found a place to share with a few friends, so we should be all set. We'll move there at the end of summer."
"I got a place if you want."
Danny nudged him playfully. "Don't worry about it. I got it covered, but thanks."
Miles messed with Danny's hair. "Well, the offer is open if you ever need it."
Danny smiled happily, but it faded a little when he looked around at the crowd. "I guess mom and dad are too busy."
Miles bit back a curse. "More time for us to celebrate. How about a fancy dinner?"
Danny lit up. "My choice?"
"Anywhere your heart desires."
"I'm dying for pasta." Danny grinned.
Miles pulled out his phone and quickly made a reservation. "Your wish is my command. I have the perfect place."
Danny laughed and hugged Miles again. "Let me say bye to Court and Rob. One sec."
Miles nodded and watched Danny run off. He was going to follow him to meet his friends but was startled when his phone rang, so he answered it instead.
"Hey Trickshot. What's going on?" He asked, a frown pulling at his lips.
Just a little ways away, Danny hugged Rob and Courtney. "We did it!"
"You were awesome!" Courtney said as she wiped her tears. "I'm so excited for college too."
She turned and saw Shawn approach with a large bouquet of roses. She yelled and jumped into his arms.
Shawn let out an oof sound and caught her. He laughed happily. "Congratulations, Courtney. I'm so happy for you."
He turned toward Danny and patted his shoulder. "Great speech, too. Truly well done."
Danny blushed at the compliment. "Thanks."
"We're going to celebrate. You want to come with us?" Courtney asked.
Danny shook his head. "Nope. My brother's taking me out today. I'll meet with you guys later."
He said his goodbyes and jogged back to Miles, who was hanging up his phone.
"Piggyback ride!" Danny shouted and jumped on his back.
Miles laughed and caught him easily. "One day, you'll be too old for this."
"Never. You're always going to catch me."
Miles smiled warmly. "Yeah, you're right."
He spun him around like he did many years ago and took off to his car. For some reason, Danny's graduation seemed to be the cusp of change—a new start—for both of them.
"I have a feeling that great things will happen this year," Miles said softly. "Life-changing things."