Part 2
Throughout the ride over to Hunter's, Sebastian felt miserable for leaving his family. Yet even Blaine reminded him, he needed to do this since his last final was the next day. The conversation was such a blur that Sebastian couldn't remember if it was his idea or Hunter's to have Hunter call and ask Seb about studying, all he knew was it was a brilliant one. While neither set of parents wanted him to leave, they all understood he needed to. Not knowing if Hunter had been able to get ahold of the rest of the guys, he had no idea what to expect when he arrived. It became clear Hunter was expecting him since it didn't take him long to open the door. "Congratulations!"
"Thank you." Sebastian replied as he walked in. "By the way, Cassie looks good."
"Yea. Pregnancy suits her like it does Lexi. It's still weird." Hunter said as they walked towards the living room.
"That is something I understand all too well. But it seems you and Thad have adjusted well."
"We have. But only you truly understand how I feel. Thad is on the same wavelength as Blaine." Sebastian could only nod and smile. "Beer?" Sebastian replied in the affirmative and took a seat before Hunter handed him a bottle. "Crazy to think this ride is about over. And then the real work begins."
"Tell me about it. All the studying the last two years was crazy. I have a whole new found level of respect for B considering all the work he's put in and the crap he's put up with. It'll be nice to finally put all this knowledge to use." Hunter raised his beer in agreement before taking a sip.
"Speaking of Blaine, have you decided when you're going to do it?"
"When we are in the Caymans. It's our sanctuary, so I felt it's only fitting. We've made some great memories there and this would only add to them. I really appreciate you holding on to it for me. Keeping it at our place is too risky."
"It's my pleasure. Speaking of the ring though, when do you want to come get it?"
"As crazy as this sounds, would you bring it to graduation? B and I are leaving early in the morning Friday and I have no clue what time we'll be getting back on Sunday. And it would be a bit suspicious if I run out after we get home depending on the time."
"I will bring it to graduation then. This has been a long time coming Seb."
"I know, but it didn't feel right doing it before I finished law school. In all seriousness Hunter, it's not like it's going to change anything between B and I. The only difference is we're each going to have a certain piece of jewelry to wear signifying we belong to someone else. Oh, and that lovely, little, legal document."
"Seb, that might be what you're saying, but I know this means more to you than that. You can't wait for Blaine to be your husband. While your lives won't necessarily change, little things will. And I have one question for you."
"What would that be?"
"Have you and Blaine talked about this because I don't remember you answering this question back when I first asked when we went ring shopping?"
"We have. And while it's something we both want, it's not as though we're in a rush. Like I said, it's not going to change us."
"True."
"What's with the smirk Clarington?"
"I just thought about something. And I don't know why I hadn't thought about it sooner."
"What?"
"For you and Blaine, how did you decide who was going to propose?"
"What?"
"Seb, unlike Jeff or the other guys, they basically knew proposing fell to them. With you and Blaine, it's really open season as to who can do it."
"You're right. Guess it'll just be a matter of which one of us does it first." Sebastian then took a sip of his beer. "I'm nervous Hunter."
"While it's understandable, you've got nothing to worry about. There is no doubt that Blaine loves you and is going to say yes."
"I know."
"Then what are you worried about?"
"It's a big moment and I don't want to screw it up."
"It is. It's another step in your relationship with Blaine. I doubt you'll screw it up by the way, you've got quite the way with words." Sebastian couldn't help but smile. "You realize everyone is going to flip once they find out."
"That is something you don't have to remind me of. It's one of the reasons I'm doing it during our trip. That way we'll be able to enjoy the moment together for a while before everyone else finds out."
"You know there is nothing saying you have to tell everyone immediately upon your return. Tell them when you and Blaine are ready."
"That's very true. It might be fun to see how long it takes everyone to notice the ring on Blaine's finger."
"That's a bit evil Seb, but I like it. Just let me know once you get home what the plan is so I don't accidently tell."
"I can do that. And I don't think you'll accidentally spill considering how long you've known I've planned on doing this." Sebastian replied as the doorbell rang. After Hunter got up to get the door, Sebastian leaned back and ran his fingers through his hair. If things went according to the plan in his head, in less than two weeks he and Blaine would be engaged. Since Jeff and Brittany were at the house when they got the news about Gabrielle, it wasn't surprising to Sebastian that Nick knew when he walked through the door. "And where is your partner in crime?"
"Which one?" Nick asked as he took a seat. "Santana is helping Britt with the unpacking and Jeff is on his way. He needed to pick something up for Britt before heading over."
"So, is it weird having them gone?"
"Extremely. But at least they didn't go too far."
"I'm sure you and Jeff would survive as would the girls if they hadn't found a place so close. Finding a place in the building next door that they loved was convenient considering how many they looked at."
"I think the girls would've been happier if they stayed in the same building." Nick replied as Hunter handed him a beer. "Is Thad coming?"
"Yes, he should be here soon. Beat can't make it because he's working on a project but wants us to call him." Hunter replied. "He can take part that way while he works."
"And Dave?"
"He's not back in town yet." Sebastian said. "He gets in tomorrow. Unless we make crazy changes with the plans he's good with whatever we come up with. And how are you feeling being done for the moment?"
"Like I can finally breathe. This past year was hard. I'm pretty sure Santana was thankful for all those events she had to attend because my head was in a book constantly when I was home. Though, I did make a point out of making sure she wasn't neglected. I really lucked out that she's as understanding as she is while that might be hard for some to believe."
"We know the feeling well." Sebastian replied. "Do you realize this is going to be the first summer B has had off since we graduated from Dalton?"
"That is crazy." Nick said. "Isn't he working at the Youth Center though as part of the graduate program?"
"Yes, but he'll have time to himself when he's not there. That is something that didn't happen while he was studying."
"Just remember, the next thing he gets to work on is his Doctorate." Hunter reminded him. "And knowing Blaine, he's going to work just as hard."
"I know, but it's nice to know he's going to have more time to himself. He really pushed himself guys."
"That we know." Nick said. "When Jeff and I each told our parents that Blaine was graduating with his Masters, they were shocked. Though, my Dad was the least surprised considering a bunch of us finished our undergrad in less than four years. But Blaine graduated with dual degrees."
"Yes, he had dual degrees, but you didn't slouch either." Hunter added.
It wasn't much longer till Jeff and Thad both arrived at Hunter's. "I want to thank you all for coming on such short notice but, since Gabrielle decided to grace us with her presence a little sooner we need to decide what we're doing for B's birthday now. And before any of you ask, don't worry about trying to factor Lexi and Cooper into things. Coop said if they can make it or stop by they will."
"Is it safe to assume Blaine's parents are in town?" Thad asked.
"They are as are mine. Why?"
"I was just curious if we're going to invite them. The last few years we've monopolized Blaine's birthday. And with as hard as he's been working, the trips you two have made back to Ohio haven't been around his birthday or yours for that matter. Heck, they've been few and far between."
"Thad's got a point." Jeff said. "Though, we've made it a point of celebrating all of our birthdays. Considering the week most of you have ahead of you, why don't we just go out for a nice dinner? That way, Lexi and Cooper can come if they want to. And it wouldn't be awkward if the parents came. Knowing the Andersons they'd love to actually celebrate Blaine's birthday with him, even if we're doing it early. Speaking of, are they going to the wedding as well?"
"That's not a bad idea." Sebastian said. "I'm open to restaurant suggestions. And yes, they're going to the wedding as well. Has there been one yet that all of our parents haven't attended. Think about it?" Nick, Jeff, and Thad all nodded as it seemed each time one of their little group got married, all the parents were invited as well considering all the parents are friends.
"What about the Boathouse in Central Park?" Hunter asked. "For all the times we've all been there, I don't think we've yet to go for dinner together. Anytime we've gone all together it's either been for brunch or lunch."
"That's not a bad idea. Let me give them a call and see if they can get us all in on Sunday night." Sebastian said and soon grabbed his phone before walking towards the kitchen.
"Is he alright?" Thad said to no one in particular.
"He's just a little tired." Jeff replied. "He and Blaine had to head over to Cooper and Lexi's early this morning. Knowing him, I wouldn't be surprised if he's been up since then, probably studying. I saw his bag, are you guys planning on studying more?"
"He brought it because that's the reason he gave Blaine for coming over here." Hunter said. "It needed to be something of that nature for him to leave everyone. But I'm with you, he's tired so I will be sure to get him out of here shortly after you guys leave. Our last final is tomorrow so he's going to need a good night of sleep."
When Sebastian finally came walking into their home that night, he wanted nothing more than to curl up in bed with Blaine. The early morning and all the last minute reading he'd been doing had finally caught up with him. So much so that even though their niece was just born and their parents were in town, Sebastian was going to talk to Blaine about doing absolutely nothing that weekend. Though he knew they'd be going over to Lexi and Cooper's once Lexi and Gabrielle were released from the hospital. Besides that he'd be content not leaving their home till they went out to dinner Sunday evening.
As he reached the end of the hallway, Sebastian sighed contently when he saw Blaine curled up on the couch reading a book. While he hadn't called, he truly hoped that Blaine was going to be home when he arrived. "You are a sight for sore eyes killer." Sebastian said as he sat down next to Blaine. The next thing Blaine did was grab his bookmark before putting his book on the table. All it took was one look and Sebastian was lying down with his head in Blaine's lap. "I needed this."
"I could tell. How'd things go with Hunter?" Blaine asked as he began to run his fingers through Sebastian's hair.
"Good. We're both ready to be done."
"Understandable. So you know, our parents invited us to dinner tomorrow night but I declined."
"You truthfully are a mind reader B. Once I'm done I want nothing more than to curl up with you for a few days."
Nice to know I was right. I want the same thing too Bas. These last few weeks have been crazy with the schedules we've both been keeping. Once all of next week's hoopla is over, including Wes and Hailey's wedding. I'm going to be more than ready to head to our favorite escape."
"Me too. Though, I'm looking forward to the wedding as odd as that might sound."
"Enlighten me."
"It's just nice seeing those close to us making that commitment."
"And here I thought it was about the reception."
"Oh, I love those too, especially since everyone we've been to has been incredible. But the romantic in me likes seeing our friends so happy. Plus after what happened last time Wes and Hailey tried to get married, they truly deserve this day."
"Yea, that hurricane put a damper on things. Wes said he'd never seen her cry like that. He was certain she cried for days." Blaine said as he moved slightly. "And it took everything he had to try and convince her that everything would be alright."
"Well those insensitive assholes didn't help matters. I don't think they realize that once someone finds their dream location, nothing else will do."
"And we both admitted, the location was pretty spectacular when Wes took us to see it."
"It was why those close to them understood why she was so devastated. Like she said, they could get married anywhere, but that was where they wanted to do it since it means something to them both." Sebastian said as he began to close his eyes, as he was becoming more and more relaxed. This simple act was something neither of them had much time for recently. While they often relaxed during their getaways, this time around that was the only thing they planned on doing. For the first time in a long time, they didn't plan on going diving.
"What do you say we go to bed Bas?" Blaine said softly upon noticing Sebastian's eyes had been closed for quite awhile and he was rather quiet. "Bas?" This was one of those times where Blaine wished he was capable of carrying Sebastian into their room. But the extra height Sebastian had on him always caused his balance to be off. After trying once more, Sebastian shifted enough that Blaine knew if he kept trying Sebastian would wake enough that he'd be able to help him into their room.
"You're so good to me B." Sebastian said sleepily as they made their way into their room. "I love you."
"I love you too Bas. Now let's get some sleep."
After watching Sebastian leave for his final, Blaine grabbed his bag and headed off to meet Rachel for her fitting. While he was completely honored that she wanted him by her side, there were some things that he wished she'd take one of the girls with to do. But a part of him knew that was rather pointless since the girls had basically teamed up so that Blaine had to fulfill all the usual "Maid of Honor" duties. The one thing that he was able to convince the girls to do was Rachel's bachelorette party and none of them put up a fuss. The last thing any of them wanted to do was to make Blaine uncomfortable.
When he arrived at the boutique a few women gave him interesting looks though those that worked there were happy to see him. "Rachel's not here yet Blaine, so just make yourself comfortable." One of the girls said. Blaine thanked her before taking a seat and pulling out his book.
"Your Rachel is a pretty lucky girl." The lady next to him said.
"Um, excuse me?" Blaine said, thrown slightly by what was said to him.
"The book you're reading, she's lucky to have such a romantic fiancé."
"Oh, I'm sorry, but I'm not Rachel's fiancé."
"That's correct." Rachel said as she was now standing in front of Blaine. "He's my man of honor. Though, if he was mine I'd consider myself extremely lucky, though I consider myself lucky already. Ready to do this Blaine?" Blaine smiled and got up from his seat and put his book back into his bag. As they walked away, Rachel glanced up at him. "What were you reading because you had this look on your face that I usually don't see unless someone else is around?"
"Really, I had a look." Blaine said as they waited for her gown to be brought into the room.
"You did. It was the look you get around Seb when you think no one is watching." Blaine could feel a slight blush come to his face. He really couldn't deny that he had that look on his face considering what he'd been reading and Sebastian was most certainly on his mind. "So, what were you reading?" Blaine then pulled the book out of his bag and handed it to Rachel. "This isn't funny Blaine."
"I'm not trying to be funny, you asked so I decided to show you."
"Blaine, it's in French. You know I can't read or understand French no matter how many times you and Seb have tried to teach me." She replied before handing the book back to him. "What is it?"
"It's a book of poetry Rach."
"Love poems by chance?"
"Maybe, but does it make a difference?"
"Why are you reading it…wait….Blaine…are you…"
"Don't get ahead of yourself Rachel. I'm doing my due diligence for your wedding. I'm trying to find something inspiring to say during my speech." When Rachel crossed her arms and began to pout it took everything Blaine had not to laugh. If she only knew her initial instinct was correct, though he was getting some good ideas for her wedding as well. "You don't look pleased."
"I am, it's just…" Rachel sighed softly. "With everything that's happening I guess I just want you and Seb to be a part of it as well."
"We are. I'm standing up in Wes's wedding. And he and I are both a part of yours and Brody's wedding as well as Jeff and Britt's."
"Blaine Anderson you know damn well what I'm talking about. When are you and Seb going to make things official? You live in New York where it is perfectly legal for you two to become husband and husband."
"How do you know that's even something either of us wants to do? Couldn't we just be happy with how things are between us?"
"Call it a hunch Blaine. But since you obviously don't want to talk about it I'll stop pushing."
"For now."
"What is that supposed to mean?"
"Rach, I love you, you know that. But ever since you and Brody got engaged you've asked me at least once a month about Bas and I doing it as well." Rachel took a step forward and took ahold of one of Blaine's hands."
"I know and I can't help it. I can see how much you and Seb love each other and well, I think it's about time. You've got to know I'm not the only one."
"That is something I do know. But for now, can we just not talk about it. Let's make this about you and Brody, and then we can focus our attention on Jeff and Britt."
"Only if you answer one question for me and you have to be honest Blaine."
"Fair enough, ask away."
"Have you at least thought about it?"
"I have."
"That's all I needed to hear." Rachel then gave him a kiss on the cheek before she began to get undressed to try her gown on. It truly killed Blaine to lie to her, but he wanted what was going to happen between him and Sebastian to be between them. And while they both know all of their friends are waiting for the moment, it needs to be just them. Telling Jeff wasn't the easiest, but he knew Jeff would understand where he was coming from. The fact that they started talking about it when Jeff first started shopping for rings for Brittany made the conversation a bit easier to broach.
Once Sebastian and Hunter came walking out after their last final, they both of them felt a sense of relief that they hadn't felt in months. It was as though a huge weight had finally been lifted off of their shoulders. "Have you heard from Thad yet?" Hunter asked as they headed towards the subway station.
"He finished about ten minutes ago so he'll most definitely be there when we arrive."
"Well, well, well. Looks as though the last final has been taken." Sebastian and Hunter looked at each other and then off to the side.
"What the fuck are you guys doing here?" Sebastian asked with a laugh, as he and Hunter headed towards the voice.
"I had it on good authority you were taking your last final today. And it was only fitting to be around when you finished since we were there when you started." Nate told him. "How does it feel?"
"Amazing! At one point I never thought I was going to be finished."
"Think of it this way Seb, I'm still not done."
"It's really good to see you guys. Michael, shouldn't you be at work?"
"When John called, I couldn't help but take my lunch break for this moment. Has Blaine finished?"
"I appreciate it. And yes, he has. B took his last exam Tuesday. And where are the spouses?"
"They are all at work." John replied. "But they wish you their best."
"Seb." Hunter said, hoping to get his attention since they were heading to meet Thad.
"Shit, one second. Guys, do you still have time?" Sebastian said to them.
"We do." Nate replied. "Why?"
"Hunter and I were going to go and meet Thad for a bite to eat to celebrate. You're more than welcome to come with."
"We appreciate the offer, but we don't want to intrude. You three deserve this moment. But know we all need to get together and celebrate." Michael told him. "How about next weekend?"
"Can't, a friend of ours is getting married. And before you recommend the next week it's a no go as well since B and I are leaving for vacation on Monday."
"That doesn't surprise us." Nate said. "You and Blaine wouldn't be you if you didn't run off on vacation shortly after the school year ends."
"He's got a point." Hunter said.
"Fine, we're predictable. But my little scholar left us few options as to when we could get away. How about I give you guys a call once we get back?"
"That sounds good." John said. "Congratulations. Next step, the bar exam."
"That we do know." Sebastian replied. "Thanks again for coming guys, I hate to run but I will talk to you all soon!"
"No worries! You and Hunter go and celebrate. Congratulations guys!" Michael said. And soon Sebastian and Hunter headed off.
When Hunter and Sebastian arrived at the pub, they weren't surprised to see Nick sitting with Thad. "It's about bloody time!" Thad said as he waved their waitress over. "And so you know, Blaine couldn't make it. He's still with Rachel."
"That's alright; B and I will celebrate on our own." Sebastian replied with a smirk. "Plus, aren't we all planning on going out after mine and Hunter's ceremony."
"Are you sure his parents won't mind?" Thad asked.
"B and I already told them we all planned on going out to celebrate this milestone."
"How about you guys go and do what you need to with your parents and then that evening we all go out for drinks?" Hunter asked.
"That's fine, but remember we can't stay out too late since B and I are leaving early Friday morning."
"We know." Nick said. "Why am I here again?"
"Because we wanted your ass here." Thad told him. "Just because the three of us are finished, doesn't mean you can help us celebrate. You know we're all going to seriously celebrate once you are finished."
"I appreciate that."
"I don't know if I've told you or not, but Cass is really proud of Santana." Hunter said after taking a sip of his beer. "She's completely holding her own. Plus she's helped pick up some of the slack for Cass."
"I'm proud of her as well. She really loves what she does and she credits how well she's doing to Cassie. It really doesn't surprise her that Cassie got that promotion. She really deserved it."
"I think so too." Hunter replied. "The fact that she's now a Mom, having to travel a bit less makes things easier. How are you handling all the travel? Because I'm pretty sure Santana is traveling the way Cass used too."
"It hasn't been too bad since I've had rotation keeping me occupied. I really think it's been good for both of us. Safe to say we know how hectic our lives are going to be for a while." No sooner did those words leave Nick's mouth did Sebastian, Hunter, and Thad all look at each other. "Come on; don't act like what I said is some big revelation."
"Fine, but it's nice to hear you admit it." Sebastian said. "That you and Santana are in it for the long haul."
"That's rich coming from you of all people." Nick's response brought a smile to Thad and Hunter's face, although Hunter knew he couldn't say anything. But if he didn't react, he might also give Sebastian's secret away.