A/N: Hi all! I'm sorry, have had a busy couple of weeks and haven't replied to the last reviews I received, but I will! And I am extremely grateful to you all! Thanks so much again for reading/reviewing.
I also have never been to New York (more's the pity – one day I hope) so apologies if I got anything wrong.
Disclaimer: I don't own Glee
Blaine was awake early the next morning, startled by the beeping of horns as the New York traffic got heavier. He stretched and rolled onto his back, looking up at the high ceiling in the apartment. A little smile crossed his face as he heard a gentle snore, followed by a little snuffle and what he always referred to as Kurt's "contented sleepy noise". Kurt always looked so cute in the morning with his adorable messy hair (that even after eighteen months together, he never wanted Blaine to see), and the way he snuggled – or more squished – his face into the pillow.
Blaine couldn't resist a peek.
He quietly got out of bed and crept over to the curtain that made up the "walls" around Kurt's bed. He pulled the curtain aside slightly, and as luck would have it, Kurt was facing in his direction. Well, half on his side, half on his front with his face rammed into the pillow, just as Blaine had suspected. How he ever found that to be a comfortable position to sleep in, Blaine would never know, but it was a sight he would never tire of.
Kurt began to stir, and Blaine quickly shut the curtain before he woke up and saw him; he realised the ex-boyfriend staring at you while you were asleep thing could be construed as a little creepy. He hurried to put his shoes on as his feet were freezing and decided he would make Kurt breakfast. He'd been really busy at work lately and didn't get much chance for a lie-in, so Blaine thought breakfast in bed might be a nice gesture. Best friends did that kind of thing, didn't they?
However, Blaine didn't count on opening the one cupboard that Rachel had rammed all the pans in when trying to tidy up, and they all came crashing out, making a din as they hit the floor. He heard a surprised yelp from Kurt's direction, then the curtains rustled as Kurt emerged, also trying to pull slippers on his feet to save them from the freezing floor.
"Oh Blaine! Thank god it's just you! I wondered what the hell was going on! I thought we were being robbed!"
"Well thank god you put your slippers on then – that would've really helped if we'd had an intruder," Blaine laughed. Receiving one of Kurt's trademark glares, he had the good grace to look a bit sheepish. "Sorry, Kurt, that must have been a bit of a rude awakening."
"Don't worry. I forgot to show you where the breakfast things were – I should have remembered that the first thing on your mind when you wake up is breakfast."
"Wasn't always the first thing on my mind..." Blaine mumbled with a slight smirk, then turned slowly with a mortified expression as he realised not only had he said that out loud, but Kurt had heard him and was now blushing and clearing his throat.
"Erm, how about scrambled eggs on toast?" Kurt hurried to the fridge, to hide and hope that the cool temperature might combat the heat in his cheeks.
"Yeah..yeah - th-that would be great, thanks," Blaine stuttered out, wanting to kick himself for making things awkward. He did kinda like that he could still get Kurt flustered though...
He also liked watching Kurt bustling around the kitchen, especially as in his haste to find out what all the noise was about, he had completely neglected his bed hair and looked unbelievably cute. God Blaine had missed this. As Kurt whisked the egg mixture, looking out the window, Blaine approached him and it took all his willpower not to wrap his arms around Kurt's waist and put his chin on his shoulder.
"Looks like a nice day out there," Kurt said a little too loudly, before turning and starting slightly at Blaine's presence just behind him. "Oh sorry, I didn't realise you were there. I would wrap up warm though – looks like a crisp day, even if it is bright. Perfect sightseeing weather, as we'll have to hurry between them to fit them all in – they're not all together you know, so we may have to do some running for subway trains and things. Is there anywhere in particular you wanted to go first? Obviously I'm guessing you want to go to Times Square and the Theatre District. We have to go to the Gerschwin! Especially after your video..."
The two boys looked at each other a little shyly, but then let their gazes linger just a little. Blaine was facing the window, sunlight on his face, and Kurt had forgotten how beautiful his eyes were; so expressive and that amazing honey colour - he could get lost in that gaze, so intense and still focused on him...
Kurt quickly looked away and turned back to the counter, looking out of the window again, before grabbing the bowl of scrambled egg mix and putting it in the microwave.
"Right, let's get this breakfast finished and eaten or we'll never get around all the sights!" He put bread in the toaster and grabbed juice from the fridge. "Orange okay?"
Blaine nodded and thanked him, feeling a little bit deflated as he felt like they'd been on the edge of a turning point, even if it was only to talk. He tried to shrug it off and tell himself that there was plenty of time; he had all day with Kurt and some other opportunity might present itself.
After breakfast, they quickly showered and changed and set out to see some of the Big Apple.
They travelled across from Brooklyn into Manhattan, and despite the fact that there were a few things to see on the way, they started at Times Square and made their way past as many of the theatres as possible until they made it to the Gershwin. Blaine's heart – and hopes – soared as Kurt grabbed his hand to pull him through the crowds of people, until they were stood right outside looking up at the huge Wicked sign in awe. They were completely in the way, and received a few less than complimentary remarks from disgruntled New Yorkers trying to make their way down the busy street, but neither could bring themselves to care. Blaine was delighted to realise that Kurt still had hold of his hand, and Kurt was a little surprised by the same realisation, but liked the fact that he could hold Blaine's hand in public and not suffer abuse for it. He then had to admit that he just liked that he could hold Blaine's hand.
They walked on towards Central Park, buying a take-out lunch that they could sit and eat in the lush surroundings. As they ate, Kurt watched Blaine as Blaine watched the people in the park. At one point, Blaine glanced at Kurt, before doing a double take and giving him a huge grin. "What?" he said, "Have I got food on my face?"
"No." Kurt smiled. "I was.. miles away. Just thinking. Come on!" He got to his feet and scrunched up his sandwich wrapper, depositing it in the bin next to the bench. "Places to see!" he said as he started walking away.
Blaine quickly followed him, before realising he had forgotten to put his wrapper in the bin, so went back. As he turned from the bin, he collided with a young lady walking a dog, and got caught up in the lead. Kurt watched, chuckling to himself as he watched Blaine untangle himself, smooth his clothes down and charm the dog owner all in one action. As the girl practically swooned, Kurt felt Blaine's spell working on him too, and wondered why he was fighting this so much. Blaine was incredibly remorseful and he couldn't have made more of an effort. Maybe it was time for Kurt to let him see some return.
Blaine pretty much bounced up to him, with a "Where next?" and then a sly grin before "Race you to the gate!" He sped off, leaving Kurt standing.
"Blaine! You know I don't run! Don't blame me if you get lost!" But Kurt could resist no longer and with a fond roll of his eyes, he set off after him.
When they returned home that evening, the pair were absolutely exhausted.
They had been up the Empire State Building; Kurt was reluctant, but went at Blaine's insistence, secretly hoping to impress him by facing his fear, but in the end it was Blaine who discovered he didn't really have a head for heights. No amount of "Blaine come a bit closer – the view is amazing from here," would tempt him. Kurt teased him mercilessly for it all the way home. That is until "My poor baby, is he a scaredy cat?" slipped out, and awkwardness ensued once more, until Kurt stepped in a massive sticky wad of chewing gum and Blaine laughed at him, not caring that he received his second glare of the day.
They didn't make it to the Statue of Liberty, although Kurt didn't mind as he had always found it a bit creepy. Blaine said there was no way he could go to New York without seeing it and Kurt agreed that they could go the next day.
Back in the apartment, they both flopped down on the couch.
"I've never been this tired after an outing that didn't involve shopping!" Kurt whined. "And we're supposed to be going out tonight! My feet are killing me!"
"Come on, give me your feet. You know you need the famous Anderson foot rub." Blaine went to pick up Kurt's right foot, but he protested. "Come on Kurt, it's tried and tested – you know it works and you're going to need it if you have a hope of wearing your favourite, but most impractical, boots tonight."
Damn it, Blaine knew him too well. Kurt surrendered his foot, although he didn't think this was the greatest idea. It did feel good though. He leant his head back on the arm of the couch and closed his eyes, letting Blaine's fingers work their magic.
Until the door opened, and both boys jumped up off of the couch, leaving Rachel wondering what she had walked in on. She thought it best not to say anything though, instead hurrying over to greet Blaine and give him a hug.
"I know, I'm home early from Lima. Long story! Can't stop, I'm going over to Brody's - just grabbing a few things," she said gathering bits and pieces from around the apartment and going into the bathroom. "But I'll see you tomorrow won't I, Blaine?"
He barely had chance to reply before Rachel kissed him on the cheek, then Kurt, and flew back out the door, shouting over her shoulder, "Have fun boys!" She momentarily paused as she slid the door closed, winking at Kurt, then disappearing before he could dish out another glare.
"And that is the whirlwind that is my roommate." Kurt rubbed his hands over his face. "I guess we'd better get ready, huh?"
Blaine wanted to suggest that they continue the foot rub, but the moment was lost. He was sure he didn't imagine the "moment" though.
They stood outside the bar, waiting for Isabelle and her friends. As Kurt searched the crowds nervously, Blaine couldn't take his eyes off of him. For once, Kurt wasn't wearing an elaborate outfit – just a plain shirt and waistcoat and some VERY well-fitting jeans – but he looked incredible. Very grown up. Like he belonged. Suddenly Blaine felt like the high-schooler he was. He finally understood that Kurt lived in a very different world now, and maybe he would just hold him back...
"Hey Kurt!" Isabelle shouted, waving her clutch bag in the air. Kurt again grabbed Blaine's hand and dragged him over to her. She immediately embraced Kurt, then looked over his shoulder at Blaine, who was standing looking a little awkward.
"So this must be Blaine, huh? I've heard a lot about you." Isabelle's smile was very warm and welcoming but Blaine knew most of what she'd heard probably wasn't good. "Well, Kurt never told me you were this good-looking!" She gave him a quick hug too, then opened her bag and took out their fake IDs. "Your picture doesn't do you justice! Here you go. Just stick with me on the way in and you'll be fine. Let's go!"
Blaine suddenly found himself caught up in a whirlwind of drag queens, but Kurt managed to keep hold of him and amazingly they got into the bar without a hitch.
Once inside, they looked around, amazed. To say it was nothing like Scandals was an understatement. This was a proper club – huge, with two bars and an enormous dance floor. Isabelle appeared by their side.
"They play dance music in here, but they play more sort of "pop" music upstairs," she said. Go wherever you like, but if you have any problems just call me. See you later!"
"Okay. Well. Drink?" Kurt asked Blaine.
"Yeah sure. I think I might just have a soft drink for now though – I'm kinda thirsty, and probably shouldn't down a beer."
"Maybe not. I seem to remember someone is a bit of a lightweight when it comes to alcohol," Kurt teased.
"I know, I know." Blaine shook his head. "No need to remind me."
They decided on non-alcoholic cocktails and managed to find a seat at the bar. They chatted for a while about Vogue .com and McKinley, Blaine's class presidency, and Kurt's nerves about NYADA. It felt so good, just to be chatting and laughing and at ease with each other.
"Would sir care for a dance?" Kurt stood and held out his hand with a slight bow.
"And here's me thinking I'm supposed to be the gentleman." Blaine grinned and took his hand, now leading Kurt to the dancefloor. Kurt thought he looked amazing tonight, in a fitted short sleeve shirt with a skinny tie and some really nice jeans. Blaine didn't often wear that fit of jeans, but Kurt was thinking he needed to persuade him to wear them more often if they made his ass looked like that.
When a song they both loved came on, they really started to enjoy themselves. They were dancing around energetically (Kurt was sure Blaine nearly jumped up on the back of a couch), when Blaine got his foot stepped on by a drag queen's stiletto heel. "Roxy" was most apologetic, and Blaine was very polite, even though he wanted to swear, and Kurt helped him hobble back over to the bar where their seats from before were thankfully still vacant.
"Blaine – are you okay? Do you want me to take a look at it?" Kurt knelt down to take off Blaine's shoe.
"No Kurt, it'll be fine don't worry. I think I just need to rest it a bit."
Kurt stood back up and held onto Blaine's shoulder to steady him as he crossed his legs and wrapped his hand around the top of his foot.
"If you need to go home, we can." Kurt's concern was obvious.
"Honestly, I'll be fine. I don't want to go home – we're having fun!" He grinned at Kurt, with a slight wince from the pain.
"Okay. Do you want another drink? I think I'll allow you a beer now – the alcohol might numb the pain," Kurt said with a cheeky smile.
"Oh you'll allow me will you?" Blaine replied flirtily, leaning a little closer to Kurt, whose eyes were bright and looking deep into Blaine's own.
"Excuse me?"
Blaine and Kurt both snapped out of their daze, and turned. Standing behind them was a tall, attractive (very attractive) guy with dark hair and stunning blue eyes.
"I was wondering if you might like to dance?" He was addressing Kurt, who looked a little flustered.
"Erm , no thanks," he stuttered. "I don't want to leave my friend alone, especially since he's hurt his foot."
Blaine's heart sank at the use of the word "friend", and the pity factor. If he wasn't injured, what would Kurt's reply been? His thoughts returned to earlier, when he felt like maybe he was holding Kurt back.
"It's fine, Kurt," Blaine piped up, almost unconsciously. "Go and dance, I'll be fine – I have beer!" he said, holding up his bottle with the best grin he could muster.
"Are you sure? I don't mind staying here with you." Kurt said quietly. He really didn't want to go and dance with a stranger; he wanted to get back to where he and Blaine had left off a few moments ago.
"Come on, are you kidding? You can't turn down a guy like that! He's gorgeous!" How the words didn't stick in his throat, Blaine would never know.
"Erm, okay then." Kurt realised he must have misread all the signs. He thought Blaine wanted to get back together – he'd been all flirty and sweet.
Deja vu.
This was exactly what happened before. When Kurt thought Blaine liked him and it turned out he liked Jeremiah. Had he made it all up in his head AGAIN? Was Blaine really over him?
He was on the verge of tears, so quickly managed to say to the guy that he was just going to the bathroom, but would be right back.
He went and splashed some water on his face, took some deep breaths and willed himself not to cry.
"You can do this, Kurt," he affirmed to himself.
He went back to the bar where Blaine sat, smiled at him, turned to the other guy and said, "Hi, I'm Kurt. And you are..?"
"Liam. Nice to meet you, Kurt." Liam smiled brightly.
"Nice to meet you too, Liam. Let's dance!" And with that, Kurt strode across to the dancefloor, leaving Liam to have to run a few steps to catch him up.
Blaine watched them go, in disbelief that things had changed so much in five minutes. Kurt hadn't put up much of a fight. Maybe he really was moving on.
He turned to face the bar, downed his beer, and asked for another.
