Blaine couldn't believe he was doing this. They had promised to take things slow, and he wasn't sure that this was exactly the definition of slow. He took a deep breath and knocked on Kurt's apartment door, his palms sweaty with nerves.

"Blaine! It's good to see you. Come on in!" Burt Hummel greeted him.

Stepping into the apartment he was hit by the aroma of a traditional Thanksgiving meal. He looked over to the kitchenette to see Kurt and his stepmom squeezed into the small space, trying to work around each other.

Kurt turned his head over his shoulder, a huge smile on his face.

"Happy Thanksgiving."

"Happy Thanksgiving," Blaine repeated.

"This is Carole. I'll warn you now, she is a hugger," Kurt called, bumping Carole's hip teasingly.

"Thank you for letting me intrude on your family time," Blaine said shifting uncomfortably.

"Nonsense," Burt said, clapping him on the shoulder. "It's not an intrusion. We are happy to have you."

Blaine took a moment to look around the space he had come to know so well. It looked lived in now, not just a temporary space. The boxes were gone, and there were now paintings on the wall. Blaine walked over to the painting hanging over the TV. It's reds and purples danced together in an abstract way that drew Blaine's attention.

"Nice, huh?" Burt said from beside him. "I don't understand it, but I like the way it looks."

"I've told you before," Kurt called from across the room, "there is nothing to understand. There is no deep meaning. I was just painting to music."

Kurt and his father exchanged banter, but Blaine didn't hear it. He was intent on the painting. It had a sensuality and longing to it. He wanted to know what song Kurt had been listening to but didn't want to ask while Burt and Carole were there.

He felt arms wrap around his waist, and Kurt's chin propped itself on his shoulder.

"You like it?" Kurt asked quietly.

Blaine closed his eyes and enjoyed the closeness for a moment. Before parting at the diner they had shared a quick hug, but this was what he had longed for.

"It's beautiful. When did you paint it?" he asked, crossing his arms and placing his hands on top of Kurt's.

"About a month ago," Kurt told him before whispering in his ear. "I was listening to More Than Words and thinking of you. Torturing myself, really."

"I love it," Blaine whispered back.

"How much longer until we eat, Bud?" Burt asked breaking them out of their bubble.

Kurt pulled away and took Blaine's hand instead.

"About half an hour 'til the turkey comes out. So we can eat in about 45 minutes," Kurt said, leading Blaine back towards the kitchenette.

Kurt's parents asked Blaine about himself, listening intently to his answers. It was a change for Blaine to have a parent listen to him as if what he had to say was important. Kurt squeezed his hand before letting go to answer the timer going off.

"Kurt tells me you know our Mercedes," Carole said, smiling so sweetly at him.

Blaine rubbed the back of his neck.

"I've only met her once. She probably doesn't even remember me. I was just a tech on the sessions."

"Nonsense," Carole chastised him. "Unless she has changed since she used to practically live at our house, I'm sure she remembers you. If you see her again, would you tell her not to be a stranger next time she is in Ohio? I miss that girl."

Once the food was done, Burt and Carole sat on the couch, while Blaine and Kurt sat on the floor around the coffee table.

"Maybe next year you can have an actual table," Burt teased.

"I wish there was the room," Kurt sighed, "but I like being close to the shop. It has been nice being able to be up here painting until they need me downstairs. Maybe one day I can afford a bigger place"

"Well, I think it is more intimate this way." Carole smiled. "Who needs a big table when you are with loved ones?"

Her smile was infectious, and Blaine couldn't help sharing it. He looked over at Kurt who smiled sweetly at him.

It was the nicest Thanksgiving meal that Blaine could remember. He had been nervous at first, but Kurt's family was so open and accepting, he couldn't help but feel at ease after spending a few moments with them. They asked all the right questions and listened intently to his answers. They never hesitated in answering his own questions. Conversations flowed, and laughter filled the apartment.

The meal finished, Blaine leaned back, his weight on his hands, and sighed.

"That was the best meal ever. I am stuffed."

"Don't you know you are supposed to leave room for pie?" Kurt teased.

"But your stuffing was amazing, and the turkey was so moist. I couldn't just leave it on my plate," Blaine pouted. "Give me an hour, and maybe you can tempt me with pie."

Kurt laughed and bit his lip, clearly holding back a retort. Blaine offered to help Kurt bring in coffee and set the pies on the table. When they got to the kitchenette he whispered in Kurt's ear, "What?"

A blush colored Kurt's cheeks

"I was going to say something about your recovery time, but I didn't think you or my parents would have appreciated it."

"I think that may have been for the best," Blaine said, feeling his heat rising.

He tried to push the thought of sex, especially sex with Kurt, out of his mind. He didn't realize how hard it would be taking things slow with Kurt. Blaine shyly smiled at Kurt before grabbing the pumpkin and the apple pies. He then turned to take them to the table. Maybe a little distance would be good for a moment, he thought. When Kurt returned with a tray loaded with coffee, he gave Blaine a sheepish look.

Later, they walked behind Burt and Carole, as they made their way to Rockefeller Center to see the Christmas trees and watch the ice skaters.

They walked along in silence for a while before Kurt turned to Blaine and said quietly, "I'm sorry if I made you uncomfortable."

Blaine's confusion must have shown, because Kurt explained, "In the kitchen earlier…"

"Oh!" Blaine said, feeling stupid. "Uncomfortable is not what I would call it. It brought back some good memories that I probably shouldn't be thinking about right now, what with the need to go slow."

Kurt's cheeks were red, and Blaine was pretty sure it wasn't from the cold. He was intrigued by this new blushing Kurt. He liked it.

"I guess I should be a little less open for a while," Kurt laughed.

"About some things, that may be best," Blaine sighed. "It's not that that is the only draw to a relationship with you. This part is what I always dreamed of, but knowing what I am missing… I just need to try and not think about that for a while."

"Same," Kurt breathed. "Today has been wonderful. Thank you for being here. I know a family dinner is not your typical first date, but honestly, I didn't want to have to wait any longer. It took me long enough to get here."

Blaine laughed, "Under normal circumstances I wouldn't have agreed, but I spent long enough without you."

Blaine grabbed Kurt's hand, wanting nothing more than to pull him into a kiss, but Burt's voice called back to them, "Pick up the pace boys, or we will never get there!"

They stood on the edge of the skating rink, watching the skaters glide by. Christmas music played over the speakers. It was the first time in years Blaine felt joy at the prospect of the holiday season. Kurt wrapped his arm around Blaine's waist and pulled him closer.

"I'm hopeless on skates. How about you?"

"I can hold my own," Blaine smiled. "Want to try?"

"No," Kurt shook his head. "I don't think I am ready to make a fool out of myself in front of you. Again."

"Come on," Blaine teased. "What better date than ice skating?"

Kurt eyed him for a moment. "Do you promise not to laugh if I fall?"

"I promise," Blaine said, grabbing Kurt's hand and kissing it gently,

Kurt's eyes grew soft. "Okay."

Kurt wobbled beside him as they walked to the ice on the blades of their skates. He was gripping tightly to Blaine's hand. Just as they stepped onto the ice, Burt waved at them, smiling.

Blaine pushed away from the wall, and Kurt scrambled to follow, soft concerned words falling from his lips.

"Just relax into it. I have you," Blaine tried to soothe him.

Blaine turned around on his skates, taking Kurt's other hand. Skating backwards, he led Kurt around the rink.

"Show off," Kurt grumbled.

Blaine smiled. "What? I like this view."

The more they skated, the more comfortable Kurt became. Blaine loved being able to make him laugh as he bopped along, singing with the music playing overhead. This was the kind of date he had dreamed of taking Kurt on. Just spending time together, laughing and holding hands.

Kurt stumbed, and Blaine caught him before he could fall.

"As much fun as this is," Kurt murmured, trying to right himself, "my feet are starting to kill me."

Blaine nodded. He wasn't sure how long they had been skating, but his legs were beginning to get that wobbly feeling. He guided them back to the exit.

"Thank you," Blaine said as they sat side by side unlacing their skates.

"What for?" Kurt asked, looking at him confused.

"Being here with me, being you," Blaine sighed.

He wanted to lean forward and kiss those soft, inviting lips but held back. He watched as Kurt's eyes lit up, and a smile sprang to his face.

"I think I should be the one thanking you," Kurt replied. "I'm the one who…"

"Don't," Blaine interrupted. "Don't even think about that. Just enjoy this now."

Kurt nodded. "Thank you." He leaned in, his eyes intent on Blaine's lips.

Just then, Mr. Hummel approached.

"You boys looked like you were having fun!"

Blaine wanted to grumble that they were having fun, as Kurt backed away, biting his lip. Instead he looked up at Burt and smiled.

"Well, I got to cross something off my bucket list."

"You've never skated at Rockefeller Center?" Kurt asked, surprised.

Blaine grabbed Kurt's hand. "Not with someone special."

Kurt just beamed at him.

"Carole wants hot cocoa. You boys ready to go?"

"Just let us put our shoes on," Kurt told him, grabbing his boots.

They ended up walking Burt and Carole back to their hotel. As Kurt was hugging his father, Carole pulled Blaine into a tight hug.

"I'm so glad you joined us today. I hope we get to see you again before we leave."

Blaine relished in a mother's hug for a moment before saying, "Thank you for having me, and I would love that."

Blaine and Kurt stood on the sidewalk watching the Hummels enter their hotel. Once they were inside, Blaine took Kurt's hand as they began walking.

"So what do you want to do now?"

"Want to go back to my place and have that pie?" Kurt asked.

Blaine shook his head. "I'm not sure if that is a great idea."

"But pie," Kurt teased before turning serious. "I promise to be a perfect gentleman."

Looking at Kurt's hopeful expression, Blaine couldn't resist.

"Okay, I'm interested to see if you are as good a baker as you are a cook."

Back at Kurt's apartment, they sat with their backs against the couch, a plate of pie in front of them on the coffee table.

"Is there anything you can't do?" Blaine praised, taking the fork out of his mouth. "Seriously, this is the best apple pie I have ever eaten. What is your secret?"

Kurt preened at the attention.

"Cardamom, just a pinch; too much takes over."

Kurt had such a proud smile, and his eyes seemed to sparkle in such a beautiful way, Blaine couldn't resist. He leaned in and placed a sweet kiss on his lips. Their lips brushed gently for a moment before Blaine pulled back and looked at Kurt. His eyes were still closed, but then when he opened them they were bright with tears.

"Okay?" Blaine asked.

Kurt took a deep breath.

"Yea, I just… I never thought I would have this. For five years I have had two distinct groups of men in my life: friends and lovers. You… you make me realize I can have both. You can be both, and I like that thought."

"Can I just say, I like this new open you?" Blaine said, kissing him gently once more. "I like the thought of being both, too."

Kurt's smile was breathtaking, and Blaine couldn't help but match it. They spent the rest of the evening sharing pie, talking, and enjoying the comfort of being together again. When Blaine left that night, it was with a chaste kiss and a promise to see each other soon.

Kurt called Blaine on Friday, asking if he could meet the next night for dinner.

"I only have an hour free, but I want to see you," he had mumbled over the phone as if Blaine would say no.

Blaine couldn't have turned down the opportunity. He agreed to pick up Kurt from the shop at 7:00.

That evening Blaine dressed with care. Not only would it be their first solo date, but there was a distinct possibility he would be meeting Kurt's coworkers. He wore his tightest jeans, paired with a fitted button up and jacket. He checked himself out in the mirror, making sure he looked the best he could. Satisfied by what he saw, he left his apartment to head to Hell's Kitchen.

Through the shop window, Blaine could see a petite blonde in a pink, retro-style dress standing behind the counter. She looked like she came straight out of a 40's fashion magazine except for the tattoos covering her body. Both her arms featured full sleeve tattoos, and she had large stars on each side of her neck. Blaine took a steadying breath before pushing the door open and entering the lobby of the shop.

"Welcome to Starving Artist. What can I do for you?" she asked as soon as he was in the door.

Blaine smiled at her. "I'm here to see Kurt."

She looked down at the computer in front of her, and a frown covered her face.

"I don't have anything down for Kurt after his current client until 8:30. Did you have an appointment?"

"It's not a business call," Blaine said.

When she still looked confused, he clarified. "It's a date."

"Oh!" She exclaimed, a smile breaking across her face. "You must be Blaine. I totally forgot he said you were coming. He told me to bring you back as soon as you got here. Come with me."

Blaine followed her through the door. The first thing he noticed was Kurt sitting beside a woman, his focus intent on her wrist. He couldn't help smiling at the look of intense concentration on his face.

"Kurt," Baby called walking towards him, "you have a visitor."

Kurt looked up, and a heartstopping smile graced his face as he said Blaine's name like this was the world's best surprise.

"I'm almost done here, just give me five minutes."

Blaine was making his way to Kurt's station when a hand on his shoulder stopped him in his place. When he turned around, he noticed three other pairs of eyes staring at him. After a moment the woman, Callie, Blaine reminded himself, turned back to the tattoo she was working on, but the man lounging in another station and the man with his hand on his shoulder kept their attention focused on him.

"So… you're Blaine," Elliott said, not removing his hand from Blaine's shoulder.

"Elliott, behave," Kurt warned from across the room.

A mischievous smile played across Elliott's lips.

"I am being the perfect gentleman, but Kurt, it has been a long time since I have gotten to interrogate suitors for you. It is my duty as your best friend…"

"Tread carefully, Gilbert, or you may lose that title," Kurt sang.

Blaine's laugh burst out of him, turning Elliott's attention fully back to him.

"It's nice to meet you, Elliott. I've heard a lot about you. All of you, really," Blaine said, holding his hand out to Kurt's best friend.

"Cute and polite," Elliott hummed, taking his hand. "And you nearly let this one get away, Hummell? What were you thinking?"

Blaine stiffened, feeling defensive for Kurt, but before he could say anything, Kurt was laughing.

"Temporary insanity."

"You should see this man dance, Micah. He had Kurt falling all over himself," Elliott called to the man lounging in his station.

Micah just laughed.

"As much as I would love to see Kurt make a fool of himself, I don't know how much my wife would appreciate me checking out another man."

"It would liven up the bedroom," Elliott teased.

Kurt chastised them. "Customers! Please keep your dirty minds to yourself."

Blaine just stood there marveling at the banter. The two clients didn't seem bothered either.

"Okay, we're all finished," Kurt told the woman sitting at his station. "Baby, would you take care of Amy?"

"Here, let's go to the front." Baby said, leading the smiling woman away.

Kurt stood up, stretching his back.

"I just need to go wash my hands, and then we can go." Then Kurt turned his attention to the other men. "And can you please leave my boyfriend alone? I would like it if he actually wanted to come back here at some point."

Blaine's breath caught in his throat, and his heart squeezed hearing Kurt calling him his boyfriend. He knew his mouth split into a goofy smile.

As soon as Kurt entered the small bathroom, Elliott slung his arm around Blaine's shoulder.

"And here I was afraid that you weren't just as smitten with Kurt as he was with you. Clearly, you have it bad," he teased.

Blaine didn't rein in his goofy smile, just watched the door Kurt was hidden behind.

"Have you ever actually met him? Who could resist?"

Elliott pulled him into a one-armed hug.

"Maybe you should tell him that."

"No," Blaine corrected him, "I think I should show him first."

"Good man," Elliott praised.

Kurt opened the bathroom door and spied Elliott with his arm around Blaine then rolled his eyes.

"Would you please unhand Blaine so we can go?"

"I was playing nice, wasn't I, Blaine?" Elliott pouted.

Blaine smiled at Kurt. "He was."

"Good, now let's get out of here," Kurt said, grabbing Blaine's hand and leading him to the front.

"I'll be back before my 8:30," he called to Baby over his shoulder as they walked out into the cold November air.

They found themselves at a small sushi place, tucked into a corner.

"Did you realize you called me your boyfriend?" Blaine asked, trying to hold in his smile.

Kurt's eyes widened, and the only sound he made was a shocked "oh".

"I liked it," Blaine confessed, hoping the fright in Kurt's eyes would leave. "I really liked it. Do you know how long I wanted nothing more than to be your boyfriend?"

"So being boyfriends is a possibility?" Kurt smiled.

"I think it is more than a possibility," Blaine assured him. "I think it is what we are. We talked about starting over, but we can't erase our feelings. I can't ignore how I feel about you. Physical stuff… we can wait as long as you need, but I don't want to pretend like the past never happened. So, when I talk to people about you, I'm going to call you my boyfriend, and I would like it if you did the same… as long as you are ready."

Kurt opened and closed his mouth for a moment.

"I… you're right. We can't undo the past, and we can't pretend it didn't happen. I don't really want to, either, even though I made a lot of mistakes. It's funny, one of the hardest things for me is admitting how I feel, and then I did without even realizing it. I want to be your boyfriend, and I want you to be mine."

"Good," Blaine squeezed his hand. "Let's order so we can get you fed before you have to go back."

Kurt looked relieved that the serious conversation was over for the moment.

"You pick two rolls, and I pick two, and we share?" he asked with a smile.

They enjoyed their meal, talking about unimportant things, just enjoying the company. Kurt blushed sweetly when Blaine fed him a section of his favorite roll, but Kurt's smile was unmatched when he returned the favor.

Their rolls polished off, they waited for the check. When it came, Blaine grabbed it before Kurt had the chance.

"Please, I want to," he said when Kurt made to protest.

After a moment, Kurt nodded his head, making Blaine smile.

He was going to do what he could to show Kurt how he felt, little by little.

They walked back to the shop, cuddled together against the biting wind. As they stood outside the door, Blaine wrapped his arms around Kurt's shoulders and pulled him into a toe-curling kiss, pouring all his feelings into it. Long moments passed as they lost themselves in each other, mindless of the people walking past.

When he pulled back, Kurt's voice was high and airy. "You want to come in?"

Blaine shook his head. "No, not tonight. You go and get ready for your next client. Why don't you call me when you get home?"

"It will be after midnight," Kurt protested.

Blaine leaned in close to Kurt's ear and whispered, "If memory serves correctly, you are worth staying up for."

Kurt's breath hitched before he said, "I'll talk to you later."

Blaine gave him one more kiss before walking backwards down the street.

"Good night, Kurt," he said and watched as Kurt hurried into the shop.

"You were the talk of the shop when I got back," Kurt told him later that night on the phone. "I don't know what you said to Elliott, but he told me I better not let you get away again."

"Well, I don't plan on letting that happen, do you?" Blaine asked.

"Not in a million years." Kurt sighed. "My parents are flying out tomorrow afternoon. They wanted me to invite you to brunch."

Blaine smiled. "Your parents are great. I would love to be there, if you want me."

"Of course I want you," Kurt said before yawning. "I'm sorry. I had 2 consults and 3 tattoos today. As much as I want to stay up talking to you, I don't know how much longer I can keep my eyes open."

"Can I sing you to sleep?" Blaine asked, not ready yet to let Kurt go.

"What?" Kurt laughed. "Are you serious?"

"Completely serious. Are you ready for bed?" Blaine whispered.

"Yes."

"Okay, then get into bed, and let me know when you are comfortable," Blaine instructed.

After a moment Kurt's soft voice floated down the line. "I'm in bed."

"Put your phone on speaker, and put it on the pillow beside you. I'll stay on the line until you are asleep. And I will meet you at your place at 9:30. Good night, Kurt."

"Good night, Blaine," Kurt whispered.

Then Blaine started singing softly, the first song that came to mind. He could barely hear Kurt making soft noises over the line.

"Love me tender, love me sweet, never let me go."

He continued to sing different love songs to Kurt until he was sure Kurt was asleep.

"Kurt?" he called quietly and waited for an answer. When none came he said, "I love you," and then hung up the phone.