Meant to Be

June 2039

From the moment the two got out of their own ways thanks to a nudge in the right direction from Cooper, no one doubted they were meant to be. Through ups and down, trials and tribulations, they came out stronger and more in love with each other in the end. Something else happened over the years, it became hard to pull one over on either of them, even with kids and successful careers. So when Lexi decided to throw them a surprise anniversary party, Cooper didn't hesitate to tell her she was taking on a monumental task. It might seem overly dramatic, but he wouldn't be Cooper if he reacted in any other way. Not to mention, he was well-aware of how hard it was to pull anything over on Blaine and Sebastian. Knowing she wouldn't be able to pull it off all on her own due to certain details that were needed, she had to enlist a bit of help.

It wasn't shocking that she called Tasha and Cassie who were more than happy to help out. She also called on her daughters who she knew were more than up for the task. The same went for Ainsley. Easy as it would've been to ask others, she knew the bigger the group became, the more likely it was for someone to slip-up. Getting them all together was easier than one might expect without raising a few eyebrows along the way. Lexi and her two best friends were still thick as thieves, and having the female cousins together at once, not out of the norm. The hard thing about it, was when Juliette asked her big sister why she couldn't go with her over to their Aunt Lexi's. It wasn't that they didn't want her taking part, but they knew at eleven, it would be harder for her to keep a secret from her Dads for over six months. Before she went to ask her Dad why she couldn't go, Ainsley took her hand and brought her into her room and closed the door.

"You know that Dad and Papa have a special moment coming up next year, right?"

"Of course I do." Juliette replied. "Is that what this is about?"

"Yes."

"Then why can't I come?"

"Because someone has to keep Dad and Papa occupied while I'm gone and not wondering what's going on."

"Why not ask Devon?"

"Because Devon won't be here, remember, he's starting Dalton this year."

"Oh, that's right." She replied. "So, you want me to be a distraction?"

"Yes, but not to the point Dad and Papa wonder if something is going on. Just be your usual self, but don't ask when I'll be coming home if I'm with Aunt Lexi." Ainsley told her. "Can you do that for me?" Juliette nodded. "Are you sure, because this is really important?"

"Yes. I won't ruin the surprise, promise." Juliette then extended her hand to her sister, sticking out her pinky. "Pinky promise."

"Pinky promise." Ainsley replied with a smile as they hooked pinkies. Once they let go, Ainsley pulled her into a hug. "I need to get going. Remember, keep this to yourself, okay?"

"I can't even tell Devon?"

"No, as I'm going to talk to him once I get back. He's going to have a lot of questions that you won't have the answers to."

"Good point."

"You're no longer upset with me, are you?"

"No, as it's a good reason. I want to help surprise Dad and Papa."

"I'm sure there will be something else for you to do." Ainsley then got up off her bed and Juliette followed. "Remember, not a word."

"My lips are sealed."

When the two came walking out of Ainsley's room, Sebastian happened to be walking down the hall as he'd just got home from work. "Not the sight I expected to see, as Dad said you two seemed to be at odds earlier."

"Dad must've had a long day, everything's fine." Ainsley replied before giving him a hug. "Right Juliette?"

"Yep!" Juliette stated before giving her Papa a hug as well. Sebastian looked between the girls and this was one of the rare times he couldn't get a read on either of them.

"I'll see you later Papa, gotta go." Ainsley chimed in before giving him a kiss on the cheek.

"Where are you going?"

"To go hang with Gabrielle. Love you!"

"Love you too!" Sebastian called out as she was already turning the corner. "Everything is good between you two, right Angel?"

"Yes Papa." Juliette then headed down the hall to go practice leaving Sebastian standing in the hall feeling confused, before walking into their bedroom to change. While he was doing that, Ainsley was making her way over to her Aunt's and Uncle's hoping they weren't going to upset she was running a bit late.

Once she walked into the home, Ainsley immediately apologizes to her Aunt Lexi who had been coming down the stairs when she walked in. After telling her why she was late, Lexi fully understood and told her not to fret as she really wasn't that late. "You did the right thing Ainsley, I'm sorry I put you in that situation." Lexi told her as they headed towards the living room where they others were.

"You did the right thing Aunt Lexi, the less she knows the better." Ainsley replied. "She's so…bubbly, she could easily slip and then, she'd be devastated."

"We'll find something for her to do, I promise as I want the three of you to be a big part of this." Lexi said as she slipped her arm around her niece. "You three really are their world."

"I know, but this, is about them." Ainsley told her. "Much as I know they love us, they love one another the same way. I know there isn't anything they wouldn't do for each other."

"So very true. Now, have they mentioned doing anything special for their anniversary?" Lexi asked her, knowing that played a big part because the last thing she needed was to plan a party and they weren't even in town.

"I've heard them talk about doing something, yet each conversation has been interrupted." Ainsley was still speaking when they walked into the room and everyone said hello. Once the two of them took their seats, the conversation resumed. "I'll let you know as soon as I hear something."

"Please do, because I want this to be as close to their anniversary as possible." Lexi told her. "Yet, I know it needs to be on a weekend so that Devon is home for it."

"Since their anniversary falls on a Wednesday, why don't we plan the party for the weekend before?" Jocelyn said to her Mom.

"Joce has a point Mom, as anytime they've gone away for their anniversary, it's always been afterwards." Gabrielle added. "With it being on a Wednesday, they could easily leave town on Friday night. It wouldn't be that long afterwards."

"True. I think I'm going to have to coyly press my little brother about whether or not he's planning something."

"Well according to Hunter, Sebastian's well aware that this is a big anniversary." Cassie said in response. "Though, it's not like he doesn't always do something special for Blaine on their anniversary."

"Or Blaine for him." Tasha added. "It's simply a matter of how far they take it."

"Something Dad gives them hell for." Jocelyn said with a laugh causing Lexi to shake his head. "It's true Mom."

"Oh, I know, but he also says it's kept him creative." When her daughters and niece shook their heads, the three older woman laughed.

"We didn't need to hear that Mom."

"I didn't say anything, your mind went there, all of yours."

"Went where?" Cooper asked as he walked into the room, instantly taking in who was there before leaning over to kiss Lexi.

"The gutter." Cassie replied. "I thought you were having a boys night out, where's my husband?"

"Out front, as I only popped my head in to grab something yet I heard all of you." Cooper said to them. "Do I even want to know what the six of you are up to?"

"We're trying to plan something for Dad's and Papa's anniversary." Ainsley responded causing Cooper to smile. "Any ideas Uncle Coop?"

"Firstly, be careful since Bas hates surprises. Secondly, don't plan it for the day of as that's their day, always has been." Cooper told them. "Even once you were born little lady, their anniversary was always about the two of them as we watched you."

"It's going to be on a weekend Coop as I want Devon to be home."

"Well, make sure you get not only his school schedule, but extra-curricular schedule as well. Just because it's a weekend, doesn't guarantee he can come home."

"Good point, I hadn't thought of that." Lexi sighed and soon felt another kiss a top her head. "You have to go, don't you?"

"I do. Love you."

"Love you too." As quickly as he'd appeared, Cooper disappeared leaving them alone again. "Do you know when your Dads will get that schedule Ainsley?"

"They already have the school schedule. The rest, they won't get till after Devon arrives." Ainsley told her. "I do know besides Warblers, he plans on playing lacrosse as well." That caused Lexi to lean her head against the chair.

"What is it Lexi?" Cassie asked.

"The longer we have to wait, the harder it would be to book an appropriate space." She replied.

"I've got an idea Mom." Jocelyn stated getting her Mom's attention. "Why don't you throw the party here? You've clearly got the space and…"

"And what?" Gabrielle asked as she could tell her sister had a specific reason in mind.

"It would harken back to when they got married." She continued, causing Lexi to smile. "They had their rehearsal here after all."

"They certainly did." Lexi beamed as she remembered the moment vividly. "How did you remember?"

"I might've looked through the scrapbook you made for that moment shortly after I got here." Jocelyn told her. "It would suit them Mom, and it would stop you from going overboard." Everyone laughed in response, even Lexi who knew it was true.

"Having it here would certainly give us more leeway in regards to a date." Gabrielle added. "And it wouldn't be hard to get Uncle Blaine and Uncle Bas to come over."

"They've made a strong case Lexi." Tasha told her.

"They certainly have, and having it here will allow us to truly personalize the moment." Lexi said as she reached for a pen to start writing down ideas. "It'll also keep it intimate, only those closest to them." That comment earned her a look from her daughters and niece. "Intimate is a relative term young ladies. For your information, their wedding was quite intimate regardless of the size of the guest list."

"I remember hearing Nana say that." Ainsley replied.

"It really was a beautiful wedding." Cassie said in response to which Lexi and Tasha smiled. "And they did it their way."

"Plus a few surprises along the way." Lexi said with a laugh earning her a look from the girls.

"Such as?" Gabrielle asked.

"Their friends sang to them, sang a song Blaine had actually written for Bas. Blew the two of them away as they had no idea it was going to happen."

"Sort of how they surprised you and Coop when you got married." Tasha said to which she nodded.

"Talk about one hell of an introduction to the Warblers." Lexi said. "And now, those guys have sons who are following in their footsteps." She then wiped at her eyes as she was starting to get emotional as memories came rushing back. "Alright, now let's get started."

Ainsley ended up being there for a couple of hours before making her way home, only to be greeted by her family watching a movie. Without saying a word, she joined them earning smiles from her Dads, and a look from Devon who was clearly curious about where she'd been. Once the movie ended, Juliette headed off to bed, as did Blaine and Sebastian who had to go to work the next day. After the room emptied out, that left Ainsley and Devon in the family room alone. "Care to tell me what's going on?" Devon asked as he flipped on the ballgame since they were on the west coast so it was only starting. Ainsley looked back over her shoulder before looking at him. "Relax, I heard the doors close, you can talk."

"Aunt Lexi is throwing Dad and Papa a party for their upcoming anniversary." She said softly in response. When he cocked his eyebrow, she continued. "It's their twentieth wedding anniversary, rather important."

"Okay, but why were you there and not us." He replied while motioning between them.

"Oh, maybe because you're going to be at Dalton and unable to help, at least in a hands-on manner."

"Good point." Devon said to her. "You did tell Aunt Lexi they are thinking about going on vacation, right?"

"I mentioned it, which is why the party is going to be there, at hers and Uncle Coop's place."

"Makes sense. Did you guys figure anything else out?"

"Mainly brainstormed since it's still six months out. Yet logistically, the planning needed to start now." Ainsley told him and he nodded. "Have you thought about what you want to do for them?"

"No. You?"

"I've got an idea, and it falls in line with the "guidelines" they put in place."

"That it come from our hearts."

"Exactly. So, you might want to put a little thought to it considering how crazy things are going to be for you at Dalton."

"Will do."

November 2039

With as crazy as things had become as he adjusted to life at Dalton, Devon was grateful to have an older sister who stayed on top of him regarding certain matters. He was admittedly confused when a package arrived for him from her, yet the moment he opened it he understood. There beneath the packing material set a piece of paper that said, anniversary idea, along with a disc. Having an hour of free time and the room to himself since Liam was at practice, Devon slipped the disc into the player and sat back on his bed. He shook his head at first when he realized she'd sent him a disc of their Dads' wedding, but continued watching it.

The reception coverage had just begun when Liam returned and Devon asked him to be quiet. Liam sat on his bed and looked at him, slightly confused as to why he was watching his Dads' wedding. Yet the moment the guys began to sing to their friends, Liam understood all too well why Ainsley had sent it to him. By the time they finished and his Dads were thanking the guys, he wiped at his eyes before looking at Liam who was smiling. "They really were good, weren't they?"

"They certainly were." Devon replied. "They still are which we reminded of when they helped your Dad serenade your Mom for their anniversary."

"Very true." Liam replied. "Any particular reason you're watching it?"

"Know how your parents just had their twentieth wedding anniversary?" He nodded. "My Dads is coming up and…never mind."

"Something special is planned, I get it. All hush hush."

"Exactly. Don't mention it to your parents as I don't know how far the planning process has gone."

"Relax, it's cool as Aunt Santana did all this cloak and dagger stuff when planning my parents party, I get it as I said."

"She did go pretty covert, didn't she?"

"She did." Liam said with a laugh. "I take it a party is involved."

"Yea."

"Still doesn't explain the video though."

"I'll explain everything soon, but first I need to talk with my sister."

"Fair enough. Now come on, we've got rehearsal in twenty and you know Ben will be pissed if we're late."

"You don't have to tell me twice."

Once Devon was done with Warblers' rehearsal, he called Ainsley as he said he would and that led him to calling his Uncle Wes. Needless to say, Wes was a little more than surprised to hear Devon ask him if he still had music from over twenty years ago. "Are you looking for something in particular because I'm pretty sure the Warblers have a rather complete library?"

"This isn't exactly a Warbler song I'm looking for though Uncle Wes." Devon told him. "My Dad wrote it." Instantly Wes knew what arrangement Devon was looking for. "Do you…"

"Yes, I still have it." Wes told him. "Care to tell me why you want it?"

"Not really."

"Devon, that song is not meant to be performed in competition, it's special to your Dads. So, unless you tell me what's going on, I'm not relinquishing it?" He heard Devon sigh on the other end of the line. "I won't tell your Dads, I promise. So?"

"I was going to ask the guys if they could help me sing it to my Dads for their anniversary." Devon replied as he walked around the lake behind Dalton knowing the chance of being overheard was slim given it was brisk out.

"By the guys, I'm presuming you mean your quasi extended family."

"Yes."

"That must mean you know something that I don't in that you'll all be in the same place at that time."

"I do." Devon told him. "So, will you send me the arrangement Uncle Wes?"

"Yes, I'll happily send you the arrangement Devon. If you guys have any issues, call me or Jeff since we put it together from the original your Dad wrote."

"Will do. Thank you so much Uncle Wes."

"Don't mention it, but a word of warning. It's not a simple arrangement as it wouldn't have done the original justice otherwise."

"I will keep that in mind, thanks again!"

Even with the warning his Uncle had given him, when Devon opened up his email upon returning to his dorm, not shocked by Wes's promptness, he was in for a surprise. The expression on his face must've spoken volumes as soon a hand was waving before it and he looked up to find Liam standing beside him. "Care to tell me what the hell that look is for?"

"Remember what we vaguely spoke about earlier?" Liam nodded as he went to sit back down on his bed now that he had Devon's attention. "I think I might've gotten ahead of myself."

"How so?"

"Our Dads were way better than we thought."

"Dev." He proceeded to pass his laptop over to Liam who soon had a similar look on his face. "What the hell?"

"Your Dad and Uncle Wes put that arrangement together, from a song my Dad wrote." Devon told him. "That's the song that they sung to my Dads."

"My Dad helped arrange this?"

"According to Uncle Wes, yes as he said if I had any questions to call him or your Dad."

"Care to tell me your entire idea now?"

"To sing this to my Dads at their party." Devon replied. "Yet instead…"

"Of all our Dads singing to them, we take their places." Devon nodded.

"Lofty expectations, huh." Liam looked at the arrangement a bit more closely before looking at him again. "What?"

"I think we could do it, but you're going to have to enlist some additional help." Liam told him.

"Such as?"

"My brother, Aiden, and Will." Liam said and watched as Devon ran his fingers through his hair, just as Sebastian does when he's thinking. "They all have experience with complex arrangements since they're older. Plus, they'd want to take part as they adore your Dads."

"We all lucked out in regards to parents, didn't we?"

"We did, just don't tell them that."

"Never." Devon said with a laugh. "Do you think the guys would do it?"

"Go ask them, it's not lights out yet." Liam told him. "I'll even come with you."

"Are you sure?"

"Yes. Plus, it's not every day we get to sing something written by one of our parents."

"Very true." Devon replied and the two made their way off their beds. "Who do you think we should start with?"

"Ben, as this is quite the undertaking and…"

"It shouldn't take away from us preparing for sectionals."

"Exactly."

Shortly after making their way into Ben's room, Noah excused himself for a few minutes to give the three of them time to talk, even though Devon told him it wasn't necessary. Much as Liam stated, Ben was all for taking part, but had reservations because they already had a lot going on. Then once Devon handed him the music, it earned them quite the look. "This is unlike anything we've ever attempted." Ben said to them as he looked over the arrangement.

"We know." Devon told him. "Though, I believe we can do it. And your Dad said if we need help, to simply call him or Liam's Dad since they arranged it. I'm sure if need be they could simplify it a bit for us, yet…"

"Yet what?" Ben inquired.

"Your Dad said it's a complicated arrangement because otherwise it wouldn't have done the original justice." Devon then handed him the disc Ainsley had sent him. "If you go approximately thirty minutes in, you can hear it, the arrangement, not the original." That was all he needed to say for Ben to put the disc into his player and cue it up. After listening to their Dads perform, he tilted his head as he looked at Devon. "What are you thinking?"

"This is unlike anything I've ever heard them do."

"You should watch the performance from my Aunt and Uncle's wedding, as it includes my Dads." Devon said proudly. "Do you think we could pull it off?"

"Yes, but it's going to take a hell of a lot of work. You'd be taking lead, correct."

"Given it's for my Dads, yea…that is…"

"You're more than capable of singing it Devon, the rest of the arrangement is a bigger concern of mine due to the complex harmonies that were written." Ben told him. "So, send the appropriate guys a message to meet in the Warbler common room tomorrow morning before class so we can discuss it."

"How about in the afternoon, I've got lacrosse practice."

"And I've got soccer."

"Just send the guys a message that they're going to need to stick around after rehearsal tomorrow, alright?" Devon nodded. "Now go, I still have an AP English paper to finish." Once the two left the room, Noah came walking back in. "Remember how we talked about how our Dads pushed the limits of their abilities?" Noah acknowledge him as he sat down on his bed. "They pushed it further than we realized." As he spoke, each of their phones went off as Devon wasted no time sending a group text to the appropriate people.

"Is this what Devon's message is about?"

"It is. His Dads twentieth is coming up and…"

"He wants to serenade them." Ben nodded in response. "What number?"

"A song Uncle Blaine wrote, and our Dads actually sang at their wedding."

"So, it would be a recreation of the moment, but with the next generation." Noah replied.

"Exactly. What do you think?"

"It's quite fitting, and our parents would love it given now sentimental they all our."

"My thoughts as well, but…the arrangement is crazy, further proof of how talented our Dads are."

"And they've always said it comes about due to hard work."

"You'd be willing to put in the work?"

"Absolutely, and I'm pretty sure the others would as well."

Noah's words were echoed the next day after Warbler rehearsal when Devon proposed his idea to the guys. While it would be a lot of work, they realized they could put in the bulk of the time over winter break since they'd all be home. This way it wouldn't interfere with sectional rehearsals. After passing out the music, the looks they gave Ben were similar to the one he'd given Devon. "I spoke with my Dad this morning, and he said while the harmonies are complex, they're not impossible."

"Do you have a copy of what it's supposed to sound like?" Tyler asked.

"We do, would you all care to hear it?" Ben replied to which they all said yes. So, Noah went to close the doors so they could watch it without interruption. By the time it was done, all eyes were on Devon and Ben who were standing side by side. "Now you know why those harmonies are so important, they truly support the melody. According to my Dad, they are based off the piano score that goes with the original."

"Not to be a downer, but…I think we're going to need some help on the lower end." Ewan chimed in. "I mean…"

"That's already been taken care of." Ben replied. "Xander, Will, and Aiden are taking part as well." Seeing a look of relief wash over their faces made Ben smile. "I brought up that fact this morning and was informed they are more than willing to take part. So, start looking over your parts and we'll run through it tomorrow after rehearsal if that works for everyone." Once they agreed, it wasn't long till the room started to empty out, yet Devon stayed behind and sat down behind the piano. When he started to play, Ben and Noah looked over at him as they'd yet to go. "Ainsley gave him the perfect nudge in regards to what to do for his Dads."

"You knew?"

"She might've run it passed me, but didn't outright state her idea. She knew he needed to figure it out on his own, though he admitted he never would've thought of it if she hadn't sent him the disc." Ben said. "It truly is the perfect gift for his Dads as it brings things full circle in a sense."

"It certainly does."

January 2040

Planning the party proved harder than Lexi ever imagined as between Sebastian's case load and Blaine's practice, it took forever for them to commit to going on vacation for their anniversary. Though the instant she'd received the dates since Juliette would be staying with them, the invitations had gone out in the mail. Much as they'd hoped, the two weren't leaving town until the Friday after their actual anniversary. "Are you sure they have no clue what's happening?" Cooper asked Lexi as he helped her set up the tables in the ballroom.

"I'm positive." She replied. "Sebastian didn't even flinch when I asked if they wanted to come over for dinner Saturday night. Said it sounded nice after how crazy things were over the holidays."

"It didn't help that Blaine was essentially pulling his hair out because of how much time he was spending at the office."

"He couldn't help it."

"I know, as did Blaine." Cooper reminded her. "But it didn't help matters as he felt he was pulled in every direction. Yet it only took one look at Bas's face to know he hated himself for what was happening."

"All the more reason why they need this upcoming trip away." Lexi told him. "Outside of a few long weekends through the years, they haven't taken a vacation just the two of them since before Juliette was born. Their twentieth anniversary was the perfect reason for them to do so."

"True, as we did the same thing."

"We certainly did. Now, when are your parents coming into town?"

"They are arriving on Friday and have taken the necessary measures to make sure Devon gets to the airport on Saturday. And before you ask, Braeden remembers that he's the one getting him at the airport."

"Thank you."

"You have enough on your mind, it's the least I can do." Cooper replied. "It's going to mean so much to them to have Devon home."

"I know, even though they only just had him home for almost three weeks."

"True, yet according to Blaine he kept himself quite busy when he was home." He then stopped to look around. "Lex, how many people are going to be here?"

"Not that many."

"Lexi."

"Immediate family and friends." When his eyes went wide, Lexi giggled. Yet before Cooper could delve deeper into the festivities Gabrielle and Xander came walking into the ballroom. "What are the two of you doing here?" She asked after giving them each a hug and a kiss.

"Surprisingly enough we had a free evening so we thought we'd come by and see if you needed any help." Gabrielle said in response. "Also, Jocelyn said she would come by after work tomorrow. She would've come by tonight but she's got a lot of work to do."

"That's what she gets working for her Uncle." Cooper laughed before he and Xander went to grab a few more tables to set up while Lexi and Gabrielle tended to the chairs. "Between the twins, he would've sworn Braeden would've followed in Sebastian's footsteps and not Jocelyn, simply because he seemed to follow in his footsteps. Yet Braeden went off on a path of his own getting his degree in business. "Speaking of siblings, did Ethan get ahold of you?"

"Yes, everything has been taken care of." Gabrielle replied. "With the way his residency is going, he wasn't sure if he'd find time to pick up their anniversary present. So, I went and met him at the hospital to pick up the receipt so I could do it for him."

"Please tell me he's not forgoing sleep to come on Saturday." Lexi said as they placed chairs at the tables.

"Fear not Mom, he's not. He gets off shift early Saturday morning and plans on sleeping till he has to start getting ready. And before you worry, he has all of us calling him to make sure he doesn't sleep through his alarm."

"He knows me well."

"Last thing he wants is to risk ruining the big surprise by showing up late. He knows how hard this was to pull off."

"Tell me about it, only a few more days till I can relax again." The next few days seemed to last forever, but Saturday morning finally arrived. Before even heading downstairs to get herself a cup of coffee, Lexi made her way up to the ballroom to give it a once over. Upon reaching the doorway the last thing she expected was to find Jocelyn and Braeden inside. "What has the two of you here so early?"

"We thought we'd come over in case you needed any last minute help." Braeden told her before giving her a hug and kiss.

"I appreciate that, thank you." Lexi replied while slipping her arm around Jocelyn. "What do think of the room?"

"It looks beautiful Mom." Jocelyn told her.

"Thank you. With nothing needing to be done, are the two of you still going to stick around?" Her question had the two looking at one another before smiling.

"Yes, at least until I need to go get Devon." Braeden replied.

"I brought my stuff with me so you're stuck with me." Jocelyn added after the fact.

"You won't get any complaints from me, either of you." She then looked at Braeden. "Did you talk with Devon last night?"

"Yes, and I also spoke with him this morning." His response caused Lexi to cock her eyebrow. "He's got a game this morning, remember?"

"Clearly I didn't, but that doesn't surprise me at this point as I've been too focused with not slipping up. Honestly, I wish I could be as relaxed as Ainsley is as nothing seems to be bothering her. She's utterly unfazed by keeping this quiet."

"She's got so much going on with school, she hasn't had time to think about it." Jocelyn said as the three of them started to head out of the room so they could go downstairs. "She's making the most of her senior year." When Lexi cringed, they each laughed. "This is one time we can relate to you Mom."

"I think this is one of the reasons your Uncles need a vacation. Realizing their little girl is graduating soon, isn't easy. Your Dad and I went through the same thing with the two of you."

"We remember." Braeden told her. "Where are they going come to think of it?"

"They are going to the Caymans as they wanted somewhere they could just relax."

""Given the hours Uncle Bas has put in, it's a good thing. I don't know how he does it." Jocelyn replied.

"Part of the reason he's been putting in insane hours, is to ensure all his bases are covered while he's gone." Lexi told her. "The last thing he wants is for Hunter or Thad to have to call him while they're away."

"Makes sense." Braeden said in response. "Do you know what they're doing this morning or today for that matter?"

"No, but Ainsley told me not to worry, so I'm not going to. From now till tonight, they're in their daughters' capable hands.

Little did Lexi know when she said that, the girls were actually up and were making breakfast in bed for their Dads. "Are you sure they're not going to be sus…suspicious?" Juliette asked as she set up the tray while Ainsley cooked.

"Yes, as this won't be the first time we've surprised them with breakfast in bed prior to their anniversary." She replied while waiting to flip the French toast. "You remember what you're going to ask them, right?"

"Yes, if we can go ice skating and if either hesitate I give them the puppy dog eyes."

"Perfect." Ainsley replied with a smile since she knew there was no way they'd say no to her. "Did you pick out your outfit?"

"I did." Juliette said before walking over to her sister. "You're making some for us too, right?"

"Yes, after we bring Dad and Papa theirs." She told her as she dished up their plates. Once they were served up, she watched as Juliette created a proverbial snow-storm with the powdered sugar. After that was done, she poured coffee for each of them before placing everything on the tray. "Remember to be quiet as they're probably still sleeping." Juliette nodded before following her sister who was carrying the tray of food. Being older, she hoped that when Juliette went to open their door it actually opened and she wouldn't find herself having to try to explain why their door was locked.

Yet when she pushed on the handle it went all the way down allowing them to come inside. With the light from the hallway it was obvious they were still sleeping. So Ainsley nudged Juliette who made her way onto their bed and sat down between them, less than gracefully. "B, I think we have an intruder." Sebastian mumbled as he slowly opened his eyes to see Juliette sitting between them, smiling widely.

"Morning Papa." She then waited till Blaine rolled opened his eyes. "Morning Dad."

"What, are you doing up so early?" Blaine responded as he became aware of his surroundings.

"We thought we'd make you breakfast in bed." Ainsley chimed in with causing them to each look towards the door. "Early anniversary breakfast since we wouldn't be able to do it on the actual day." Blaine and Sebastian smiled at each other before slowly sitting up in bed and flipping the switch for their blinds.

"You didn't need to do this, but thank you." Blaine told them before giving Juliette a kiss on the cheek and saying good morning. Sebastian then followed up, doing the same before she made her way off so Ainsley could put the tray on the bed.

"I helped!" Juliette said proudly and they smiled, knowing all too well where she helped, at least one aspect of it. "Do you want juice as there was no room on the tray?"

"We'd love juice." Sebastian replied as he and Blaine each went about fixing their coffee. "Did you two eat?"

"I'm going to make breakfast for us now, wanted to take care of you two first." Ainsley said before moving to give them each a kiss. "And call us when you're done, we'll clean up."

"You're spoiling us." Blaine replied happily before taking a sip of his coffee.

"Only right given what you do for us."

"Still…"

"Dad."

"Both of you stop, as this could turn into an endless cycle." Sebastian replied. "Now, where's my juice?"

"Coming Papa!" Juliette said as she headed for the kitchen.

"Bas."

"I wouldn't expect anything else Dad." Ainsley said before turning. "I'll make sure she doesn't make a mess."

"Thank you." After she left, Blaine couldn't say another word as when he opened his mouth Sebastian put a fork full of food in it.

"Our little girl's turned into quite the little cook." Blaine nodded as a content hum escaped him as he chewed. "You know I was only teasing."

"I know, and Juliette's enthusiasm was too cute." Blaine said after swallowing as Sebastian took a bite. It was only a few moments later when Juliette came walking in with two small glasses and handed them to them. "Thank you." Juliette smiled before clasping her hands before her.

"What is it Angel?" Sebastian asked knowing that look all too well.

"Do you think we could go ice skating today?" After she asked, Sebastian looked at Blaine who smiled.

"I think that's possible. Maybe get some hot chocolate while we're out too. Would you like that?"

"I would." Juliette replied. "How is it?"

"It's really good." Blaine told her. "So, why don't you go see if yours is already done?"

"Okay."

After she left, Blaine rested his head on Sebastian's shoulder. "This feels weird Bas."

"Because Devon isn't with them?" Blaine nodded. "I know, but we'll see him soon enough when we go to Ohio for Regionals. Hard to believe he was just home."

"Trust me, I know. One would think he never saw the guys given how much time they spent together over break."

"Given their schedules, they don't have a lot of free time." Blaine scrunched his nose which caused Sebastian to press to kiss to it. "We weren't too different."

"Don't remind me."

"It's their first year B, or is for a group of them. It'll get better."

When Ainsley returned after the two of them finished eating, the tray was sitting on the dresser and her Dads were leaning against their headboard sipping their coffee. "Did I hear Juliette correctly, we're going ice skating?"

"Yes, unless you have other plans." Blaine told her while patting the bed before her, which she took to join them. "Thank you."

"You're welcome." Ainsley replied with a smile. "Have you started packing for your trip yet?"

"Trying to get rid of us already?" Sebastian teased.

"No, just curious."

"You're not upset we're going without you, are you?" Blaine asked.

"Not at all. Would I like to be going, of course, but I understand why we're not."

"And why is that?" Sebastian inquired.

"So you two can have some time alone with each other. Something you don't get enough of with the three of us pulling you in every direction."

"Yet we wouldn't exchange it for the world." Blaine assured her.

"I know." She said as she tucked a rogue curl behind her ear. "I'm just saying I get it."

"How'd you get so smart?" Sebastian responded.

"I've got the two of you as parents." She then moved forward to give them each another kiss before getting off the bed to take the tray. "Take your time getting ready, as I'll make sure Juliette dresses appropriately."

Once she was gone, Sebastian extended his arm and Blaine curled up against him. "Guess we did something right with the whole parenting thing, huh B?"

"Yea, we didn't screw up as badly as we thought." Blaine said as he wrapped an arm around him. "Imagine that."

"We got one through the teenagers, two to go."

"At least we won't be flying blind with Devon."

"For the most part." Sebastian teased before pressing a kiss to the top of his head. "You remember we're going to Lexi and Coop's for dinner, right?"

"I do. After the week we had, it'll be nice not having to cook, just enjoy some time with our girls." He then felt Sebastian's hand on his hip. "You're not in a rush to move either, are you?"

"Not really, and thankfully we don't need to. I think Ainsley had the right idea."

"What do you mean?"

"Let's start celebrating our anniversary now, I mean, twenty years, that's pretty incredible Killer."

"Actually, it's more like twenty-seven…we've only been legally one another's for almost to twenty." Sebastian couldn't help but smile, as Blaine was right. They'd been one another's since they got out of their own way all those years prior.

While the two of them took their girls ice skating, little did they realize all that was going on around them in regards to family and friends. They'd be shocked by all the trips to the airport picking up their boys from the airport. "Do you need to stop by home for a change of clothes, or are you good?" Braeden asked as he and Devon walked through the airport.

"I'm good, but wouldn't going home be risky?" Devon replied.

"No, as your sisters got your Dads to take them ice skating." Braeden then cocked his head. "What's wrong?'

"What do you mean?"

"You seem distracted."

"Sorry, it's just been a long day already." Devon told him. "You don't think Aunt Lexi would mind if I took a nap."

"Not at all, she actually expected you to."

"Yea, I just have a lot on my mind, that's all."

"Okay, but if you need to talk, you know I'm here."

"I do." Devon replied, and he wished he could but he knew he needed to keep this to himself so as not to ruin the surprise. His expression spoke volumes as everyone asked if he was alright, which he assured them he was before disappearing upstairs to get some rest.

"He says he's fine." Braeden told his parents the instant he was out of ear-shot. "No, I didn't push because he gets like the rest of us when pushed."

"That's why I didn't push him." Lexi said. "Hopefully whatever it is, it's nothing major."

"I don't think it is." Ethan replied as he joined them. "I got like that when I had a lot going on, and he's keeping himself busy at Dalton. He's probably just making sure he got everything done, mental checklist." It seemed to be the general consensus, little did they realize what was really going on, Devon's nerves were getting the best of him.

When everyone started to arrive around five that evening, Lexi couldn't help but notice how the boys seemed to vanish shortly after they all arrived with their parents. With the parents mingling about, she made her way over to Brittany who was speaking with Quinn. "Excuse me, but by chance is there something going on with the boys I don't know about?"

"We were actually just discussing that very thing." Brittany replied. "They've all been acting strange since they got home. Even Xander and Will, it's…"

"Strange, to put it mildly." Quinn chimed in before taking a sip of her glass of wine. "Hunter even tried to get an answer from our boys, and nothing. Whatever is going on, they're not sharing, which worries me when it comes to them."

"But would we be saying it if it was our girls doing so?" Brittany countered.

"No, as our girls wouldn't be so blatant something was going on." Quinn said causing them all to laugh. "You know it's true." Brittany nodded as it wasn't something she could argue. "When are Blaine and Sebastian expected?"

"I told them to come around six, so they should be here around quarter to knowing them." Lexi responded. "Ainsley is going to text me when they leave the house in case they decided to leave earlier than expected."

"Amazing how having the kids growing up works to our benefit in some cases." Brittany said.

"It certainly does."

While everyone mingled at Lexi and Cooper's, Sebastian was enjoying a glass of scotch as he looked out onto the park, watching the snow while waiting on the others. He was brought out of his daze when he felt Blaine's arms wrap around him from behind and his head rest against his back. "Are the girls almost ready?"

"Almost." Blaine replied softly. "I can't remember the last time I heard Juliette giggle as much as she did today, the same could be said for Ainsley."

"We weren't much better B, today was perfect."

"It certainly was." Blaine said as he felt one of Sebastian's hands move over his. "What are you thinking?"

"That obvious, huh?"

"Only to me." Sebastian shifted his body ever so slightly so that Blaine could move against his side. "So, what is it?"

"Thinking about what you said this morning." Sebastian responded before pressing a kiss a top his head. "If I could tell a seventeen year old me, that this was where we'd be, he wouldn't believe me."

"You don't give seventeen year old you enough credit, I think he would." Blaine told him. "Crazy how we were already with each other at the same age Ainsley is now."

"I didn't need that comparison B, but I know we're a rarity, much like Britt and Jeff." He then took another sip of his scotch. "To think, at this time next week we'll be basking in the warmth of the Caribbean and I'll hopefully have you in next to nothing."

"I so didn't need to hear that." Ainsley stated as she walked into the room, earning a chuckle from Sebastian and seeing an obvious blush on Blaine's face. "You're lucky it was me and not Juliette."

"Speaking of, where is she?" Blaine asked.

"Looking for her earmuffs as she doesn't want to mess up her hair with a hat."

"She's only eleven!" Sebastian exclaimed, this time Blaine laughed before watching him down the rest of his scotch.

"I'll be twelve next month Papa." Juliette said as she appeared at the end of the hall, earmuffs in hand.

"He's knows angel." Blaine told her before taking a look at them. "You two look very nice."

"Thank you." Their unison reply had Blaine and Sebastian exchanging smiles before Sebastian took his glass to the kitchen so they could go. By the time he returned, it didn't take them long to get bundled up to be on their way.

They were about halfway there when Ainsley sent a text to Gabrielle letting her know where they were so she could pass the message onto her Mom. Once it was received, everyone made their way up to the second floor so they weren't in their immediate line of sight upon arrival. Initially they were going to be in the ballroom, but Lexi couldn't come up with a believable reason to get them up there without ruining the surprise. Normally the girls would enter first, but Ainsley managed to get her Dads to enter the house first without raising their suspicion.

No sooner did the door open, did Blaine and Sebastian stop dead in their tracks as their family and friends shouted surprise from up above. They took in all the faces, before looking back at their daughters who were beaming. "You knew about this?" Sebastian asked as Blaine took in the moment, clearly overwhelmed.

"We did." Ainsley said, as she gave him a hug and Juliette hugged Blaine. "You're surprised, right?"

"Definitely." Blaine responded before giving them each a kiss. "The only thing that would make this better would be…

"Me." Devon said as he came out from a side room to the utter surprise of his Dads. Even Sebastian had to wipe at his eyes as he couldn't believe Devon was standing before them. "Didn't think they'd have a party for you without bringing me home, did you?" Blaine and Sebastian shook their heads before pulling him into the group hug.

Upon seeing Greg and Carolyn appear, Sebastian looked at Lexi. "Mom and Dad were supposed to be here, but weather delayed their flight, they couldn't get home in time." Sebastian nodded before looking around again, shocked to see everyone there. For one of the rare times, Blaine and Sebastian were each speechless. After letting go of their kids, they all removed their coats before going to mingle with everyone. They couldn't believe their loved ones were able to pull this off with neither of them being none the wiser.

Once they all made their way upstairs to eat, Sebastian and Blaine were shocked once again upon seeing how the ballroom had been decorated, reminiscent of their wedding. "I guess this explains why you were so curious if, and then when we were going away." Sebastian said as he looked over at Lexi who was sitting at the table beside them. She simply smiled before shooting him a wink.

The evening truly was more than Blaine or Sebastian could've ever imagined, so when Devon stood, they had no idea what to expect. "Since I'm not going to be here on your actual anniversary, I thought I would give you my gift this evening. While it might not be what you'd expect, when one thinks about our family, it's quite fitting." Blaine and Sebastian smiled, as he moved to the empty space beside their table, and Sebastian slipped his arm around Blaine's shoulders. "And like you both, I'm going to need a little help from some of my friends." They watched as Devon was joined by the guys, and in the process, Blaine happened to see Wes get his camera out, proof that at least one person in that room outside the boys knew what was going on. "Dad. Papa. I hope we do this justice knowing what it means to you."

From the moment the opening harmonies begun, Blaine and Sebastian knew the song as Devon was right, it was dear to them both.

I've been alone

Surrounded by darkness

I've seen how heartless

The world can be

Devon had barely finished the first verse and there were tears in their eyes, along with plenty of the other guests in attendance

I've seen you crying

You felt like it's hopeless

I'll always do my best

To make you see

Baby, you're not alone

'Cause you're here with me

And nothing's ever gonna bring us down

'Cause nothing can keep me from lovin' you

And you know it's true

It don't matter what'll come to be

Our love is all we need to make it through...

By the time the boys finished, Blaine and Sebastian were in complete awe of what they'd just heard. As the boys made their way back to their own parents who were beaming with pride, Devon slowly made his way over to his Dads who promptly enveloped him in a hug. "That was incredible." Sebastian told him.

"I hope I did it justice." Devon said, blown away by the reaction of his Dads.

"More than." Blaine told him. "How did you get the idea?"

"Ainsley might've put me on the right path, and then…Uncle Wes shared the arrangement with me." Devon then wiped at his eyes as even he was overcome with emotion. "You guys made it look easy, which it was anything but."

"It was perfect, you were perfect…you were all perfect." Blaine said as he looked about. "Thank you, truly. We…"

"Couldn't have asked for more." Sebastian finished for him as Blaine composed himself. "And Wes, how the….we'll talk about this later."

"I was expecting that." Wes replied as he took in the sight before him. "And here a few of us were going to say a few things, yet…we can't follow that up. Seeing you two now, your kids, it's all the proof anyone needs to see to know you two truly were, meant to be."

Song: Not Alone

Writer: Darren Criss