Chapter 21 – The Promo

When Kurt arrived at the Fashion Hero workshop on Monday, he noticed two things. First, everyone was even more excited and buzzing than usual, which was saying a lot. Second, everyone was staring at him with a mischievous grin on their faces that had him on instant alert.

"My shoes, my clothes, my make-up!" someone yelled down the hallway and Kurt stopped dead in his tracks. The words were shockingly familiar. He quickened his pace towards his workstation and caught snippets of what everyone was talking about.

"Dana, what is going on?" Kurt asked apprehensively. Dana Panda's workstation was closest and he considered her a friend, or at least a friendly co-contestant.

"Don't tell me you haven't seen the promo yet?" Dana was beaming with excitement and clutched his arm.

"What promo?" Kurt asked, dumbfounded.

"What promo?" Dana parroted him. "Duh! The promo for the show, of course. It's running all day long!"

"Hey girl, you're gonna wear my shoes, my clothes, my make-up!"

Kurt turned around to see Devin who walked around cheerfully, apparently yelling his new favorite quote.

Kurt felt the panic rise inside of him. "Dana, am I in the promo?" he asked, suddenly pale as a sheet.

"Yes, you are!" Dana confirmed happily. "They have some super funny parts in it with you and Genius bickering and then there's your quote when you had that fight with your model, because she would always argue with you about every piece of clothing and you yelled at her-"

"My shoes, my clothes, my make-up!" Devin had stopped next to Kurt and kind of rapped the words at him, striking a cool pose. "They should make this into a hip hop song," Devin said enthusiastically. "It would totally hit the charts."

"Oh, God, I'm so screwed," Kurt covered his face with his hand.

"No, you're not," Dana disagreed. "The promo's so much fun!"

"People are going to think I'm this hateful person," Kurt said, shaking his head in disbelief. "I was prepared for them to show that sad episode of me losing my temper, but to put it in the promo? That's not okay. People didn't have a chance to get to know me yet."

"Actually, I think the promo turned out pretty good," Adam appeared at his side and casually leaned on the chest-high wall around Dana's workshop. "Clearly they intended to make it look like one of those bad trash reality shows, but it turned out pretty funny instead. As for your 'My Shoes My Clothes My Make-up' performance, Kurt, I think people will get that you're just totally pissed in that moment and that you're not a mean person in general."

"They're going to show us the promo on the big screen before they announce the new assignment," Dana said. "You can see for yourself then."

"Face your fears," Kurt murmured to himself, thinking of the advice Isabelle had given him. "Maybe it won't be as bad as I think."

"By the way, I like the highlights," Adam complimented him.

"Thanks, I needed a change," Kurt said, but he couldn't get himself to smile back. He turned to walk on towards his workstation and motioned for Adam to walk along since Adam's workstation was right next to his.

"Ready to start the new week?" Adam asked in such a cheerful way that had Kurt wonder how he maintained his optimism.

"I was until the promo popped up," Kurt said with a sigh. He knew he was being ridiculous. This was a TV show after all and he had signed up for this.

"I didn't get to thank you, Adam," Kurt said, turning all serious again. "I heard you carried me off the dance floor after I passed out. My friend Chandler thinks it was very heroic of you to save me from being stamped to the ground. I would have very much minded getting foot prints on my suit, so thank you."

"You're welcome," Adam said with a cute little grin. "I'm glad to see you're feeling better."

"I do," Kurt confirmed and glanced around. "Say, have you seen Genius yet?"

"He's around somewhere," Adam replied and his grin got wider. "Boy, was he being a mother hen over you at Babylon. I've never seen him so fierce before. He practically hissed at anyone who wanted so much as look at you. When did you guys become such close friends?"

"We're not," Kurt denied. "I don't know why he acted like that. He mentioned that his sister had been anorexic, so maybe that's why he had experience with fainting people." Kurt realized his slip and added quickly, "Not that I'm anorexic! He was just worried in general. It's not that he actually cares about me personally."

"Right," Adam said and narrowed his eyebrows.

Kurt's phone vibrated in his pocket and he excused himself and went over to his desk to read the text message. It was from Chandler who apparently had seen the promo by now.

The promo is out! Don't freak out! At one point you're snapping at Rachel, but it's so good! I love it! - Chandler

Kurt didn't know if it was a good sign that his friend liked the promo. Chandler tended to get overly excited about everything.

To Kurt's surprise, Rachel came in early. She happily jogged towards Kurt and engulfed him into a hug. "The promo's out! I'm in it, too! All my peers at school are so jealous!"

"I haven't seen it yet," Kurt told her.

"It's about a minute long," Rachel told him. "And you're in it three times. Once you're standing next to Genius when he says something about the late Alexander McQueen and you're nodding along. Then one time you're at your work desk sewing my dress for the first challenge and talking to the interviewer about the importance of the right tools while Blaine's right behind you, looking absolutely handsome. And then there's the infamous scene where we argue about my shoes. Oh, and all my peers love your line and they kept shouting at everyone, 'my shoes, my clothes, my make-up'. It's so funny, really."

She was so enthusiastic about the promo that Kurt couldn't help but feel optimistic, too. He didn't like the idea of being put on the spot with his one fit of temper, but apparently everyone was cool about it.

Before the week's assignment was announced, the host showed the promo to the gathered contestants. Kurt clutched hands with Rachel and kept thinking 'Face your fears', but when the promo started he had to admit that the cut was very well done and everyone looked really good. Kurt was amazed how much snippets fit into a one minute promo. However, the most prominent faces in it were Genius, Howard and Penelope. Kurt wondered if this was already a hint to which contestants were the producers favorites.

At one point Genius told the camera that he wasn't on the show to make friends which came across as very arrogant and bitchy, and made Kurt wonder if it bugged Genius that this quote had made it into the promo. Everybody would think he was this ambitious egomaniac who just lived for his career.

Background music for the promo was the song 'Fresh Off The Runway' from Rihanna and David Guetta which would also be the show's theme song.

The assignment for the week was Black & White and everybody moaned about it. Where was the fun in no colors?

"How do they manage to come up with all those boring themes week after week?" Dana complained to Kurt. She sported a bright yellow/orange striped tie along with a red short-sleeved shirt that indicated that she clearly was into colors.

"You have to admit that it's a very challenging assignment," Kurt pointed out. "Because how on earth could someone create something exciting out of black and white?"

"I know you're not asking for my opinion, but can I just throw an idea into the pot?" Rachel linked arms with Kurt and walked with him back to his workstation. "Onesies! Please make onesies for Blaine and me."

Kurt looked at her doubtfully and tapped his finger on his chin. "I like onesies, but they're only fun until you have to pee," Kurt said. "Also, after a while I kind of feel trapped in them."

"Really? I think they're very comfy and practical," Rachel said.

"Those are the ones that are similar to pajamas," Kurt pointed out. "The fabric is the most important part. I don't want to do something that's akin to pajamas. And I definitely don't want something comfy and practical for the runway."

"I was thinking more of the black leather jumpsuit you wore for Michael Jackson week in glee club, remember?" Rachel said. "I'd like something like that, stylish and made out of leather."

"Leather?" Kurt hummed appreciatively. "How about white leather for your outfit and black for Blaine? Hotpants for you with a zipper starting between your breasts. Long legs for Blaine and a zipper from neck to groin."

"Yes!" Rachel agreed excitedly. "And white knee-high leather boots for me!"

Kurt pointed at her, liking her idea. "Hot!"

"I'm up for anything," Rachel grinned wickedly.

An idea was forming in Kurt's head. "How about a belt that looks like a simple belt at first, but really it is a zipper, so the top part of the onesie can be taken off, like a jacket. You'd wear a black top underneath."

"I like that! So it's two outfits in one!" Rachel exclaimed happily.

"Exactly!" Kurt clapped excitedly. "Love it! But it's going to be hard work. Adding the zipper will be tricky and working with leather isn't easy in the first place. I will have to put long hours into this."

"What will you do for Blaine's outfit?"

"As a matching outfit I would also add a zipper belt, so the top part can be taken off. Underneath he would wear a white V-neck. Gosh, I can picture it in my head already. Hot, but classy."

Working with Rachel today was easy-going and pleasant. They finally pulled at the same string. Kurt felt like they were creating something amazing together. First they searched the store room and found the perfect leather for both jumpsuits. Back at his work desk, Kurt did some sketches with Rachel giving him directions and the result was something Kurt was really excited about and he started working on the first draft of the leather outfits when Rachel left three hours later.

It wasn't until Blaine showed up that Kurt realized how nervous he was to see him.

The sound of Blaine's friendly, cheery voice floated over to Kurt as Blaine walked across the workshop and said hello to several of the other models and contestants. It always amazed Kurt how easy it was for Blaine to make friends.

Kurt watched from the corner of his eye as Blaine approached his station and a thousand things tortured his mind. He didn't know how to be around Blaine, because they hadn't talked at all since their fight at Babylon. Would Blaine want to talk about it? Would Blaine accuse him of destroying their friendship? Was Blaine glad and even relieved to have moved out of the apartment? Or did he miss him already? Kurt shook his head. If anything Blaine would probably just feel sorry for him.

"Hi." Blaine stopped a few feet away from Kurt, as if not wanting to get too close. He kept his satchel over his shoulder and didn't drop it on the second chair like he usually did. Was he checking Kurt's mood and prepared to leave immediately in case he wasn't welcome?

"Hi," Kurt replied and managed a thin smile. He didn't want Blaine to feel unappreciated, but he also didn't want him to feel obligated to continue the model job. However, before he could say as much as 'glad to see you', Blaine cocked his head and the sweetest look of bedazzlement crossed his face as he stared at Kurt.

"Wow," Blaine sounded utterly perplexed. "You look... great," he said it as if he couldn't believe what he saw.

Kurt frowned. It didn't sound like a compliment when Blaine looked like he was genuinely baffled. It had Kurt thinking that probably Blaine had expected him to be a wreck today and instantly several self-demeaning reasons came to mind. Did Blaine actually think Kurt would spend the rest of his life hiding in the bedroom with a pot of ice-cream and a ton of self-pity while listening to Rachel whining about not taking responsibility for the downfall that had become his life?

"Thanks," Kurt replied warily. "Why do you sound so surprised?"

"I just..." Blaine stuttered. "Rachel told me you weren't feeling well and I just... I didn't expect you to be up and about and looking your very best, is all."

"I had some help from Isabelle and Chandler today," Kurt confessed with a shrug. "Without a thorough makeover session I would probably look like a scarecrow today. I suppose that's what you expected, didn't you?" Kurt gave him a thin smile. "There's no need to worry about me. I'll be okay. You know I always pick myself up again."

"I know, and I'm sorry for sounding like a complete idiot," Blaine shook his head and finally put his satchel on the chair. "You always look great, Kurt. It's just... I wasn't prepared for you to look so stunning today."

Kurt felt his cheeks grow hot. "You don't look half bad yourself," he replied casually, and pretended not to notice the sudden awkwardness between them.

Blaine cleared his throat. "So, the promo's out," Blaine said carefully, clearly testing the waters. "Chandler has sent me the link. I thought you might be wary about it, with it including the part where you're shouting at Rachel and all."

"What do you think of it?" Kurt asked, wanting to hear Blaine's honest opinion first.

"To be honest I was just excited to see your face on TV," Blaine smiled fondly. "Well, on the display of my iPhone, but still. I can feel the excitement growing inside of me. It's really happening! Up until now it's just been all these crazy hours in the workshop, but now we finally get to see some of the footage, and from the looks of it it's going to be a really cool show."

"I'm glad you feel that way," Kurt felt a genuine smile grow on his lips. "That's what I think, too." He was relieved that Blaine still felt connected and a part of the show. He had feared that after last Saturday Blaine would want to quit.

"Anyway, Rachel and I came up with a great idea for this week's assignment." Kurt explained the idea to him and showed Blaine the sketches.

"Is this going to be like your jumpsuit for Michael Jackson week in glee club?" Blaine asked. "Didn't you say it was awfully uncomfortable?"

"Yes, that's why I'm doing some adjustments. They won't be the typical onesies. I want to add hidden zippers that allow to take off the top part."

"That's pretty cool," Blaine was genuinely impressed.

Kurt was relieved to see that Blaine liked the idea. Kurt felt less anxious and confused around Blaine when he was able to talk about something that was familiar, and talking about fashion was solid and safe ground. "I need to cut rough outlines to determine how much fabric I need," Kurt explained. "Can we go behind the partition screen?"

"Sure," Blaine shrugged out of his coat and went ahead behind the divider.

"You can keep your shirt on," Kurt said quickly, perhaps too quickly, when Blaine already reached up to unbutton his shirt.

"Just spread your arms, please." Kurt draped the leather for the jacket over Blaine's shoulders and worked on the measurements.

As much as neither of them acknowledged that something had changed between them, clearly everything had. Kurt felt the wall that he had put up between them and Blaine seemed to be determined to stay on his side of the wall, not trying to break through anymore. It made things easier not seeing all the expectations and hopeful wishes in Blaine's eyes anymore. Although it had been what Kurt had wanted, it felt weird and confusing. Now Kurt had space to breathe and to settle down in his own mind which was good, but it also needed some getting used to. He wanted to be normal around Blaine, but he didn't know how. How did you return to just being friends? Kurt wanted to talk about it, but he thought that maybe it was best not to talk about it. Hell, even Isabelle had advised him not to talk about it and keep his distance, but it was hard to do when Blaine was standing right there.

"Chandler told me you had exciting news," Kurt finally said. He glanced up at Blaine from underneath his lashes, not sure if Blaine would want to share his news with him. "He didn't tell me anything about it, so I was wondering if congratulations are appropriate."

Blaine's face lit up with a charming flustered smile. "Well, yes, my dance group has been offered a gig by this rising pop rock star. He's doing a mini tour starting New Year's Eve and we'll get to accompany him across the country."

"That's wonderful, Blaine!" Kurt exclaimed, genuinely impressed. "That's just your thing, isn't it? Do I know this rock star guy?"

"Elliott something?" Blaine shrugged. "He calls himself Starchild. I haven't heard of him, but Chandler claims he's awesome."

"He's got to be pretty amazing if Chandler likes him," Kurt figured. "But I haven't heard of him either. Who names themselves Starchild? That's an odd name. Have you heard any of his songs yet?"

"No, not yet, but we'll start rehearsing choreographs to his songs today, so I'll see," Blaine shuffled his feet. "Listen, I need to reduce the time I work with you. I've got dance rehearsal every day now and it might collide with the Fashion Hero schedule sometimes."

"Do you want me to release you?" Kurt asked while all blood drained from his face, leaving him pale with shock. It was what he had been dreading.

"No, I don't want to quit," Blaine said hurriedly. "I just need to find a way to juggle both."

"I don't want you to feel like you're obligated to do this," Kurt said. "My mind is set on creating outfits for you, so of course I wouldn't want you to drop out. But if you have other opportunities coming up and want to leave, then I'll have to find someone else."

"I'm not going to bail on you," Blaine said firmly. "Fashion Hero comes first."

Kurt studied Blaine's determined expression and he knew that Blaine meant it. He would stick to his promise, because he was that kind of person who would never break a promise.

"No," Kurt said with a sigh, although it was kind of hard. "Your life comes first, Blaine. This dance gig is important to you and I want you to do it. I'm not going to stand in your way. I promise, if you need time off of your model duties, we'll figure something out."

"Thank you, Kurt." Blaine was clearly surprised by Kurt's response and his lips twisted up into the cutest smile. "I didn't think you'd be this cool about it, but I love how you still zig when I think you're about to zag, and I can't tell you how relieved I am."

Kurt closed his eyes for a brief moment, as Blaine's words took him back to a place and time when they both had been so young and innocent and so much in love. It was a piercing ache in his heart to think of those bittersweet times.

"Take off your pants, please," Kurt said all businesslike, but he blushed a second later when he realized that just a week ago these words would have had quite another meaning. They had been all over each other, kissing and groping, right here behind the privacy partition. It was kind of scary how things could change within a few days.

Kurt busied himself with the black leather that he wanted to size up while Blaine dropped his jeans and stepped out of them. "Hold this, please." Kurt draped the prepared cut of the leather around Blaine's waist and Blaine held it to his hips while Kurt dropped down into a crouch before him to fit the fabric around Blaine's legs and pin it with needles.

"How's living at the dorm again?" Kurt asked, approaching a topic that he had wanted to avoid, but couldn't help it.

"It's okay," Blaine replied simply.

"I didn't mean for you to move out." The words tumbled out before Kurt could stop them. His heart was beating out of his chest. He didn't look up at Blaine, but kept crouching before him. "You know that, don't you?"

When Blaine didn't answer right away, Kurt hunched back on his heels and finally looked up at him.

Their eyes met and Blaine gave a little shrug. "Actually, no," Blaine replied with a frustrated sigh. "I don't know what you meant and what you wanted me to do, but it's okay." He shrugged again. "I need to figure out what I want in my life apart from you. So that's what I'll do from now on."

Kurt finished pinning the fabric and carefully removed the draft from Blaine. "You can put your pants back on," he said in a thin voice while his mind was racing with Blaine's words.

Before Blaine left the divider, Kurt stood before him and fought the urge to reach out for him and melt into his embrace. "Blaine, I'm really sorry for what I said to you. I was frustrated and I let it out on you. That wasn't fair."

"You made a few valid points," Blaine shrugged again.

"Still, I shouldn't have been so harsh," Kurt said. "And I need you to know that I regret my words."

"I know," Blaine said and tried to give a reassuring smile. "Don't worry. We're good."

Kurt gave a nod, although it didn't feel as if they were good. The awkwardness between them was palpable now, and Kurt knew that Blaine felt it, too. This wasn't how it was supposed to be between them.

Kurt turned away and busied himself with the sketches again. "Isabelle had amazing news for me today, too," Kurt spoke up in a more cheerful tone, clearly eager to change the subject. "I get to write a weekly column about my experiences on Fashion Hero."

"Really? I love that," Blaine said, stepping closer. "Sounds like the perfect work for you."

Suddenly Kurt felt Blaine's presence in his back and he closed his eyes waiting for a touch. Blaine was a touchy-feely person and he would always find a way to brush his fingers over Kurt's arm or place a hand on Kurt's back in a friendly and innocent way. Just the smallest touch, just to communicate I'm here.

But not today. Blaine kept his distance and Kurt couldn't blame him.

"Kurt?"

Kurt's eyes fluttered open and he inhaled deeply, realizing that he'd held his breath.

"Yes, I'm already excited about it," Kurt said, but his voice sounded wrong. He cleared his throat and turned back to face Blaine. "It will be a challenge. Something to keep my mind busy, I guess." He did his best to manage a smile.

Blaine felt his resolve crumbling. He had sworn to himself to respect Kurt's wish for distance and just be a friend to Kurt, nothing more and nothing less. But it was so hard when Kurt was standing right in front of him and there was so much pain and love and confusion. Seeing Kurt so vulnerable but yet so determined and selfless made Blaine aware why he loved Kurt, and he could sense that Kurt still loved him, too.

Blaine's gaze traveled down Kurt's arm and he caught a glimpse of the bandaged wrist that no longer seemed to bother Kurt. He wanted to reach out and take the fidgeting fingers of Kurt's hands into his own to give them a reassuring squeeze. He knew that Kurt's hands tended to get cold and Blaine loved to rub some warmth into them. But before he could find the courage to do so, Kurt folded his arms in front of his chest and clasped his arms.

"So when does your dance class start?" Kurt asked casually.

Blaine checked his watch. "Actually, I need to leave now. Chandler's picking me up and driving me to my dance class," Blaine explained.

"You guys spend a lot of time together lately," Kurt said observantly.

"He's a great guy," Blaine replied with another shrug. "But I'm sure he just wants to hang out in case Starchild shows up."

Kurt chuckled and they shared a smile.

"See you tomorrow," Blaine said and for a second he looked as if he wanted to give Kurt a hug goodbye, but thought better of it.

Kurt watched Blaine walk away until the door shut behind him.

Alone once again, Kurt felt weirdly empty. He imagined Chandler waiting outside in the car for Blaine. He imagined the way they would hug hello and chat happily on the way to Blaine's dance class. All casual and at ease. Kurt was happy for his friends and glad that they could enjoy each other's company. But he couldn't help feeling left out and he knew it was his own fault. They didn't do anything wrong. It wasn't their fault that there was a dark shadow clouding his heart and making him feel like it was too much effort to reach out for them. To reach out for anybody. He wondered if anybody else understood this feeling. Did anybody get how frustrating it was to watch someone else laugh and wish with all your might that you were able to laugh just like that, too?

"Stop it!" Kurt hated how his mind would drift off to all these dark thoughts. He hated that even after the amazing time with Isabelle and Chandler and even Rachel today he would turn back to self-hate so easily. "Focus," he told himself sternly and picked up his sketches to decide what to do next. Inhaling deeply, he forced himself to focus on the task at hand.

From the corner of his eye he caught a glimpse of Andrew whom he hadn't seen all day. Andrew went over to Genius's workstation and talked to him. Kurt watched them with a weird sense of dreading.

Kurt had meant to talk to Genius all day long, but Genius' workstation was at the far end of the room and they didn't happen to cross paths, so Kurt somehow didn't get a chance to say thank you yet. He was grateful that Genius had taken the time to calm him down at Babylon last Saturday, and no matter the fact that they were competitors, Genius didn't use the opportunity to smack Kurt down. Instead he'd picked him up and encouraged him.

While he watched, Genius seemed to become upset about something that Andrew was telling him. When Andrew moved on, Genius instantly left his workstation and marched down the aisle. Right towards Kurt.

Kurt stood frozen, waiting to see if Genius was actually headed towards him.

"YOU!" Genius entered the little swing door into Kurt's workstation without asking permission. He walked right up to Kurt and stabbed his index finger hurtfully into Kurt's chest. "Tell me how you got it! Whose ass did you kiss? What did you do to snatch it away from me, you little thief?"

"What are you talking about?" Kurt took a few steps backwards, away from his furious peer.

Genius looked as if he was about to burst, but he kept his fury contained and motioned for Kurt to follow him. "Not here!" he snapped. "Let's talk without cameras."

Kurt agreed that whatever this was about didn't have to be on national television. Although he wasn't keen on learning what had caused Genius to throw a fit, he followed him without argument into the restrooms.

"The blog, the column, whatever you want to call it," Genius spat at him as soon as he had checked the stalls to make sure they were alone.

"What about it?" Kurt shrugged, confused and surprised that he had already heard about it.

"I was supposed to write a blog about the show!" Genius told him.

Kurt stared at him for a long second, too baffled to say anything. He kept his left arm around his middle, resting his right elbow on his hand and tapping his lips with the other hand. "I didn't know that," Kurt said, still perplexed about this revelation.

"Oh, yeah, of course you didn't," Genius snorted at him sarcastically. "You knew and you couldn't stand- GET OUT!" Genius yelled at poor Franklyn who just stumbled into the restrooms.

Franklyn flinched and backed away, but still held the doorknob. "But I need to-"

"Can't you see that we're having a discussion here? How rude can you be?" Genius gave the model a push out of the door and shut it into his face. For the rest of their conversation, Genius kept his boot firmly at the door, so nobody could come inside.

"I really need to pee!" Franklyn whined from outside the door.

"Hold it, you baby!" Genius snapped and rolled his eyes, before he focused on Kurt again. "It's obvious to me that you got your Vogue fairy godmother to make a few phone calls and snatch the opportunity away from me, you back-stabbing bitch!"

"What? No!" Kurt was appalled. "I didn't know a thing about it until today. Isabelle just told me this morning."

"Yeah, right!" Genius snarled. He stood with his arms crossed and glared at Kurt. "You're just lucky, because you're an intern at Vogue dot com. They wouldn't have asked you to write for them otherwise. Do you even know how to write a column?"

"You're just envious," Kurt shot back at him. "Why can't you be happy for me? You've got it going so well for you. What for do you need to write a column?"

"Don't act like you don't know what this truly means," Genius snorted in disgust.

"Enlighten me," Kurt said with a resigned sigh. He was sick of playing games.

"You're safe from now on," Genius said and his voice was so gravelly as if it physically hurt to say those words. "You're going to write a weekly blog about the show. No matter how much you screw up, they won't kick you out of the show, because you'll still be writing about it, and they want an inside voice. Congratulations, Foxy. You made it. At least until the finale. And rest assured that I'll be in the finale, too, and I'm going to kick your ass! Because whatever deal your cute fairy godmother made for you, in the end it's going to be about who's the best."

Genius turned on his heels and left Kurt standing at the row of sinks.

Kurt was rendered speechless and stunned. He hadn't thought about it, but Genius was right. Writing the column meant that he had a safe ticket to the finale. Even when they were done shooting, the show would run for more weeks longer since it was pre-recorded. If he was to write about it, he would have to stay in the show for that time. It was tempting, of course. He wouldn't have to worry about being kicked out week after week again. But it wasn't what he wanted at all. He didn't want to be thrown bones. He wanted to stay on the show for his own talent.

Franklyn rushed in towards the nearest urinal, zipping his fly down in a haste and sighing with relief. "Man, that was a close call," he said to Kurt.

Kurt blinked, looking up from his deep thoughts and quickly looking away again which erupted a cackle from the model. "I don't mind you peeking, Foxy."

For a second, Kurt was thrown back by the realization that Franklyn was into boys, too. Gosh, was really everybody at the workshop gay? Then again, seeing how much Genius despised straight men, it was to be expected that he chose his models after their sexuality.

"I'm sorry," Kurt muttered with one hand at the side of his face, shielding his view. "I'm still processing what Genius just threw at me."

Franklyn let out a huff. "Genius's a total bitch," he said while finishing his business. "Next time I'll just piss into the pants he wants me to fit on."

"What's his real name anyway?" Kurt asked him, thinking that Genius' model should know.

"Hell do I know," Franklyn gave a shrug and went over to the sink to wash his hands and check his reflection. "If he wasn't paying so much, I'd have quit by now."

"He pays you?" Kurt asked, baffled.

"What? Do you seriously think I put up with his eccentricities for free?" Franklyn snorted. "The promo says it all: He's not here to make friends. He's not even cute to make up for his diva attitude. Without all his make-up and glamour, he's just a skinny lad with bad skin condition."

"He's not that bad," Kurt defended his peer, although he didn't know why he felt like he had to defend the guy who'd just accused him of back-stabbing and stealing opportunities. "When I passed out in Babylon last Saturday he took the time to see how I was. I think he's lonely and doesn't know how to make friends."

"You're right about that, honey. The hell does he know how to make friends," Franklyn said and raised his forefinger to emphasize his words. "Your sympathy is wasted on him. Did you see the scar on his eyebrow? I bet he used to have a piercing there. I wanted to show some interest, you know, be a friend and everything, so I asked him about it and he told me to shut it. What a rude bitch! As if I'd asked him why his mother ship had left earth without him."

Unconsciously, Kurt toyed with his whale tie clip again, more upset about Genius' accusations than he cared to admit.

"You know, at first I thought you were an uptight bitch, too," Franklyn put a hand on his hip and gave Kurt a once-over. "But I have to admit you're burning hot on the outside and sweet sugar on the inside. If you ever need a hand for whatever I'd happily serve you free of charge. Just saying." He winked at Kurt and brushed against him on his way out.

Kurt stood frozen for a moment, blinking rapidly to process being hit on by one of the hottest models on the show. Finally he shook his head and returned to his workstation. All his enthusiasm from earlier had faded away and he couldn't stop thinking about Genius' accusations. Kurt wrote a quick text message to Isabelle, saying, Thanks again for your effort with the weekly column. I'm not sure yet if I'll do it, so please don't make any final deals with FH. Thank you.

As he resumed his work on the assignment, Andrew walked by and for a brief moment their eyes met. Kurt didn't know what Andrew was up to, but there was a very content glint in Andrew's eyes.

Kurt worked on Rachel's onesie for the rest of the day and was joined by Adam and Dana who both loved chatting. Unlike the other contestants, they weren't afraid of being spied on, so Kurt loved to hang out with them and just talk about fun stuff while working on their respective designs. Dana loved ties, obviously, and made a black and white plaid one for both her male and female models. Adam went with casual weekend outfits. They both were impressed by Kurt's workload, because working with leather was difficult.

About eight o'clock Rachel called to ask Kurt if it was okay for her to spend the night at Joey's place.

"Just if it's really okay with you," Rachel insisted. "I mean with everything that's going on lately I wouldn't want to just go without asking you first if you needed me."

Kurt got it. Rachel wasn't keen on having to babysit him. Kurt knew that she was truly worried about him, but he also knew that she didn't know how to deal with him anymore. She was uncomfortable around him at home. But she would feel guilty to just go and do her thing, so she asked his permission to feel better about herself.

"Of course you can go. I don't mind being alone in the apartment for the night," Kurt tried to sound casual, because he didn't want to be a spoilsport. Also he didn't want to give the impression like he wasn't okay and still needed someone to watch over him. However, he wasn't thrilled on the prospect of having to spend the night by himself.

"Great!" Rachel chirped. "You know you can call me anytime!"

"I know," Kurt replied, but the hell would he call her when she was with Joey.

The next few hours flew by. It was close to midnight and closing time, when Kurt became fidgety and nervous about the prospect of being alone in the apartment and the panic slowly crept upon him until it occupied his mind. He told himself that he would be fine. His father would call at one o'clock and they would talk while Kurt would do his skin care routine and then he would fall asleep instantly. It wasn't a big deal. But why was the prospect so frightening?

He considered calling Rachel and asking her to come home, but he couldn't do that. He even considered calling Blaine and asking him to come over and spend the night, but hell he couldn't do that either.

He watched the hands of the clock nearing the twelve and forced himself to take deep calming breaths. He was acting ridiculously.

Adam was one of the few contestants who had stayed up until closing time and Kurt left the building with him, chatting lightly and listening to Adam's jokes and watching him stifle yawns. There was a moment when they arrived at a street corner and Adam had to turn left while Kurt had to turn right to get to the subway. "Good night," Adam said tiredly. "See you tomorrow."

"Adam," Kurt said quickly, knowing that he'd be alone the second Adam left.

The idea struck him that he could ask Adam to go to the next bar with him, having a drink and spend a few more hours. But seeing how tired Adam was, the idea changed into asking him if he could spend the night at Adam's place. Kurt wouldn't mind going to Adam's place. He liked the man and he felt comfortable around him. But somehow this might come across as too fast forward. Adam might misinterpret Kurt's intentions. Knowing that Adam had a crush on him, Kurt didn't want to lead him on. Besides, he couldn't ask someone to let him crash on the couch on such short notice. He didn't even have his toothbrush or clothes to change with him.

Adam watched him attentively, waiting patiently for him to speak. He drew his shoulders up to block out the cold November wind.

"Never mind," Kurt said with a dismissive wave of his hand. "Good night. Have a safe drive home."

"You, too," Adam said, suddenly looking concerned. "Are you sure you're okay?"

"Yeah," Kurt gave a one-sided shrug. "It's just... Rachel. Things are getting way serious between her and your friend Joey. Who would've thought, eh? They spend so much time together..."

Adam chuckled and stuck his hand beneath his beanie to scratch his head. "The two of them certainly hit it off right away. Sometimes two people just click, you know what I mean? Love is quite a fascinating thing."

"I'm happy for her," Kurt said. "It's just... I never know when she'll be home."

"You must be thrilled to have the place to yourself, then," Adam grinned. "Didn't you say that her nightly bathroom ritual drives you crazy?"

"Right," Kurt murmured. "I probably should just enjoy being alone for one night."

"Look, I really need to get home," Adam said with a yawn. "Or else I fall asleep on the street. Good night, Kurt."

"Good night," Kurt stood a moment longer and watched Adam dash off. Kurt pulled up the collar of his coat against the wind and hurried on towards the entrance of the subway.

"Stop freaking out, silly," he told himself in a murmur. He would be okay on his own. It was ridiculous to be afraid to be alone.

His shoes hit the first few steps downstairs when he heard someone call his name. Kurt turned around instantly, his initial thought being that Adam came back running to invite him to his place after all. Maybe he had caught on to Kurt's uneasiness and would offer him a place on his couch. But as Kurt scanned the sidewalk Adam was nowhere to be seen.

"Kurt!"

Kurt turned around once more and noticed a car standing in second row on the street, its driver waving over to him. It was Andrew. He motioned for Kurt to come over.

Kurt hesitated for a second, but then his feet carried him across the street all by themselves. He leaned into the open window of the driver's seat.

"Get in," Andrew said in a friendly tone.

"Andrew," Kurt chided softy, as if to say, 'you know I won't come with you, so why do you ask?'. However, just by talking to him Kurt already felt his panic ebbing away and a welcoming calm wash over him. Andrew was familiar. Kurt could be himself around Andrew. There was no need to hide his personal struggles, no need to maintain a happy and confident facade.

"I want to show you something," Andrew lured him. "Please?"

"What do you want to show me?" Kurt asked.

"It's a surprise," Andrew flashed his crooked smile and brushed his longish dark curls behind his ears. "Come on, baby," Andrew said and patted the passenger seat. "I worked really hard on it."

Of course, Kurt didn't trust his ex-boyfriend one bit, but Kurt was certain that he could control Andrew. The only times Andrew had truly hurt him had been when Kurt had let it happen.

Kurt took a deep breath. Face your fears. Isabelle's words came to mind once again.

It wasn't necessarily Andrew whom Kurt was afraid of. It was rather the way Kurt had allowed himself to become around Andrew. It occured to him how funny it was that he didn't trust himself to be alone for a night, but he trusted that he could be strong around Andrew. That he wouldn't allow Andrew to hurt him. In the end he was more afraid of being by himself than he was of being with Andrew.

"Okay," Kurt walked around the hood and opened the door to the passenger seat. He dropped his satchel to his feet and put on the seat belt.

"Let's go."

Thank you for reading.