Part 43

Thankfully Blaine was feeling better the next week so Hunter was able to get the two of them out of their home. While it wasn't dinner because Quinn had a meeting to attend in regards to her paper, going to the gym worked almost as well since they usually went out to eat afterwards. With Jeff heading over to Blaine and Sebastian's after work, Brittany headed over to Nick and Santana's since Nick wasn't going to be home for a while.

When she walked in, Santana was stretched out on the couch with her laptop on her lap. "I'm not interrupting, am I?" Brittany asked as she sat down.

"Nope, if I was too busy to hang I would've told you. I was just looking over Nick's schedule and comparing it to possible wedding dates. This is way harder than I ever expected. I have no clue how Jenna or Hailey pulled it off. Between rotation and then the beginning of residency the options are slim."

"Have you talked with either of them?" Brittany asked as she tucked her feet under her.

"I have and they both reminded me to breath and that it will all come together. You just have to be a bit more negotiable."

"What time of year are you and Nick thinking of getting married during?"

"We're both leaning towards the fall but that's when his schedule makes things a bit awkward."

"As in a year from now?"

"Yes. We'd like to do it sooner, but there is way too much to deal with for that to happen."

"Are you going to get married here in New York or back in Ohio?"

"Most definitely in New York. Getting married in Ohio never crossed either of our minds. This is our home."

"Jeff and I felt the same way."

"Speaking of Jeff, where was he going after work that you came here, not that I mind one bit?"

"Blaine and Sebby's. "

"Ah. I just need to say, I'm so glad the guys admitted that they're doing something for them. Them being secretive didn't work."

"They were just afraid that we were going to push for details."

"We easily could've but they handled it the right way. This way they don't have to sneak around and we know we have another surprise to look forward to at the wedding."

"Speaking of surprises, I can't wait for the Halloween party. Sebby is going to freak!"

"No doubt. I wish we knew who everyone else is going as. I mean, I get why Hunter told us to read the book, but I'm still stumped."

While the girls were talking at Nick and Santana's, Jeff was heading for Blaine and Sebastian's office after giving the living room a once over. He knew music had to be stored somewhere, but he had no clue where it possibly could be. Once he was in the office he opened the closet and checked the numerous shelves. Jeff thought he had hit the jackpot when he found a shelf full of music but it was copies of every song the Warblers had ever sung while the two were at Dalton. Upon going through it he had memories attached to every piece of music

By the time he was done, he sat down in front of their desktop. Even though he knew it was a risk, he pulled on the top draw of the filing cabinet. "Figures, it's locked." Jeff thought to himself before turning on the computer. When it booted up, a smile came to his face as he saw Blaine and Sebastian smiling back at him from one of their numerous trips to the Caymans. After taking another look he realized the picture was recent since they were both wearing their engagement rings.

Since he and Blaine had worked on so many pieces through college, Jeff knew exactly which folder Blaine kept all his original pieces in. Once he clicked on the folder, he found numerous folders inside. Not surprisingly, Blaine kept his labels simple and there was actually a folder labeled Sebastian. Upon clicking on it, a box popped up asking for a password which was something Jeff expected. The first thing he put in was obvious, but he could see Blaine simply using Sebastian's name for the password. When the computer beeped at him he shrugged his shoulders as it was worth a shot.

Luckily Blaine hadn't initiated the failsafe after so many attempts which allowed Jeff to keep trying numerous options. He'd been at it for almost an hour when he gave Thad a call as he was truly running out of ideas for what it could be. The first five ideas Thad gave him were all options Jeff had already used. Soon the two of them began to brainstorm and each time Jeff tried something he got that all too familiar beep. "What could Blaine possibly been thinking when he did this?" Thad asked.

"I've been asking myself the same thing. I mean, I get that he wants it to be something Seb might not think of, but I'm really running out of ideas." Jeff replied.

"Are you sure there isn't a way to back door into it?"

"That sort of program needs to be installed and then we'd have it once Blaine accessed the file. And while I'd be willing to install something like that, we don't have the time. I mean, we're already cutting it close. I mean, we need to start rehearing soon."

"That I do know. And if we don't start soon we're going to have to go back to the two-step in regards to choreography."

"That's not going to fly. We're not going to go crazy, but it needs to be more than the two-step."

"Do you know what song they're doing their first dance to?"

"Not a clue. For starters, I don't know if they've picked one yet. But if they have, they haven't mentioned it. Why?"

"Maybe it has something to do with that."

"Wait!" Jeff almost shouted while getting up out of the chair. "I've got an idea." Jeff then quickly made his way back into their living room and over towards the table behind the loveseat. There sat a vase, numerous pictures of their nieces and nephews, a couple pictures of them, and a shadow box. Jeff carefully picked up the shadow box and took a good look.

"Are you going to tell me what you're doing?"

"Not till I know whether or not it's going to work." Jeff proceeded to take the shadow box with him back into their office and sat back down. "Wish me luck!"

"Good luck as you're running out of time." Thad could hear the keys as Jeff type and he couldn't help but feel anxious considering how long Jeff had been at it.

"YES!"

"It worked?"

"It did. And you prompted it."

"How?"

"When asking about their first dance. It then dawned on me that it was probably something dealing with a key moment in their relationship."

"I still don't get it."

"The Buble concert."

"Huh?"

"Thad, you need to start remembering the little things….honestly. The concert Seb took Blaine to when Kurt forgot his birthday. Remember Seb put together that shadow box with their tickets and photos from that night."

"The photos that showed how in love with each other they were even back then." Thad said.

"Exactly!"

"What was the password?"

"That I am not sharing as I already feel like crap doing this but I know it's for the greater good. Just let me hit print and we'll be good to go. While I'm doing this, do me a favor and send Hunter a text to find out what's going on."

"Got it." While Jeff waited for the numerous pages to print, Thad made sent the text. "You don't have to rush as they just arrived at the restaurant."

"Good as I need to make sure I close everything down properly and put the shadow box back where I got it from."

"Sounds good to me. Are you going to send it to Wes tonight?"

"That I am and then he and I can get to work."

"Have you two thought about how you want to do this?"

"We do and everyone that is taking part will have a part. But I better go so I don't forget something."

"Alright, I'll talk to you later man. And say hi to Britt for me."

"Will do. Later!" Once Jeff got off the phone he walked over to the printer at the end of the desk to make sure everything was coming out properly. After the last page finished, Jeff picked them up off the printer and made sure the paper level wasn't too low that they might think something was up. Now that he had the score, he closed out all the windows before closing the computer down and turning off the monitor. With the score in one hand and the shadow box in the other, he headed out into the living room. After setting the shadow box back down where he'd gotten it from he gave the room one last look to make sure it looked the way it had when he arrived.

Jeff was heading down the hallway towards the door when he heard keys at the door. Considering he was in the middle of the hall Jeff was literally in no man's land. He hoped that had something happened Hunter would've gotten ahold of him so Jeff quickly ran back down the hall just as the door was opening. Thanks to a strategically placed mirror he was able to breathe a sigh of relief when he saw Cooper walking towards him. Seeing that, Jeff walked around the corner. "What the hell?" Cooper blurted out upon seeing him.

"I could react the same way. What are you doing here?" Jeff asked.

"I'm dropping off the kids school pictures. What are you doing here?"

"You don't want to know."

"Jeff. You're in Blaine and Bas's home and they're not. There's got to be a reason."

"There is a reason but I can't share it."

"Jeff."

"Cooper, trust me, it's not bad. If you don't trust me, call Wes."

"Wes knows what's going on."

"It was his idea actually." Cooper looked at Jeff as he spoke and could tell Jeff was telling the truth. "Are you going to call him?"

"No. Where are Blaine and Bas?"

"Having dinner with Hunter after spending some time at the gym."

"Does Hunter know you're here?"

"He does."

"In general terms, is it safe to presume the core group of Warblers all know what's going on?"

"That would be correct. And now that you have that information I would really appreciate it if you didn't mention seeing me here to either Blaine or Seb."

"Your secret is safe with me."

The next day when Blaine headed out for lunch he was thankful that Brody and Mike were both free and willing to meet him. While he sat at the table, it wasn't long till they both arrived. "While I appreciate the invitation, wouldn't you rather be having lunch with Seb?" Brody said and Mike nodded in agreement.

"Having lunch with Seb would be great, but where we're each located doesn't make it too easy. Plus our schedules don't often mesh."

"Ah, so we're your consolation lunch dates." Mike said with a laugh.

"You're not. I actually need to ask you both something and it's a bit strange."

"Considering what we've all experienced together, that might be a stretch." Brody replied.

"Strange might be a poor choice of word, but I don't know how else to describe it and really the two of you are the only ones that could possibly answer this. You're also best suited to answer another question."

"Now I'm truly curious." Mike said before they all placed their drink orders.

"It has to deal with our costumes."

"Does this mean we'll be finding out who you're going as?" Brody asked.

"That would be a negative." Blaine replied. "But you guys can answer this question without that bit of information."

"What is the question?" Mike asked.

"How do you guys deal with wearing tights?" Mike and Brody both started to laugh once the question left Blaine's lips. "This isn't funny guys."

"I take it you have to wear them with your costume." Brody said and Blaine nodded. "Did you have them on at the costume shop?"

"I did and they were beyond uncomfortable. How am I supposed to wear them for an entire evening?"

"For starters, we'll get you a pair that fit properly." Mike told him. "Once that's done, they're much more comfortable."

"What were you wearing beneath them because that affects the fit as well?" Brody asked.

"Boxer briefs."

"Yea, those aren't going to work." Mike said.

"I figured as much. I'm assuming I need to wear something with less fabric."

"That would be correct. If you don't have something we can recommend something." Brody told him.

"Uh, I have that covered. But thank you." Blaine told them hoping he wasn't blushing too much. "Where precisely am I going to need to go to buy them?"

"Any of the dance shops." Mike replied. "One of us can go with you and make sure you get the most comfortable ones. There are certain brands that are more comfortable than others and are also more forgiving."

"That would be greatly appreciated."

"I take it you need them to be a certain color." Brody said.

"That would be correct. Is that going to be a problem?"

"Not at all. When would you like to go?"

"The sooner the better, since the party is less than two weeks away."

"The joys of celebrating in the city." Mike said. "Halloween lasts for well over a week."

"Will Tina be here by then?"

"She's coming into town the next weekend."

"Is this the official move?"

"It is."

"Nervous?" Brody asked.

"I'm nervous and excited at the same time."

"Understandable. I know that feeling well. But I can tell, at least in my case, it was well worth it. And while I know she's not moving in with you, having her here in the city will be the only way the two of you will know if you truly have a chance."

"Brody is right." Blaine told him. "This is the only way you'll know if you and Tina really have a chance."

"I know as does she. But with all the visits she's made out here since we started seeing each other again, she really wants out of Ohio. Seeing the lives the girls have all made for themselves has her a bit envious, but in the best way possible."

"Correct me if I'm wrong, but she's doing rather well for herself." Brody said.

"No, you're correct, she is. And she feels it wouldn't have happened if she had stayed in Lima. She felt the only way she could get a good head start was by leaving."

"Hence the move to Columbus." Blaine said.

"Correct. She wanted to go further but she didn't quite have the courage to do so. Yet the rest of the girls took the leap and moved to a big city and have all thrived. She's hoping her career will excel even more once she makes the move as well."

"Excuse me one sec before we forget what we were talking about, but when is a good time for you Blaine?" Brody asked.

"I'm done at four today, is it possible to do it tonight?"

"Absolutely. Now we can get back to Tina's move to the big city." After Brody answer, Blaine slid him his phone so Brody could put the address in of where they were to meet.

By the time Blaine got home that evening, Sebastian was already there and working on dinner since Blaine had let him know he had an errand to run after work. After setting his bag down on a chair, Blaine walked up behind Sebastian and wrapped his arms around him. "Where'd you go?" Sebastian asked.

"I need to pick up something for my costume."

"What did you need to pick up?"

"You'll find out soon enough."

"Why won't you tell me what we're wearing?"

"Because it's a surprise."

"B."

"Come now, the last three years you've picked out our costumes and I haven't said boo."

"They've been spectacular."

"That they have. And I promise you, this year's costumes fall in line with that. Personally, I can't wait to see you in yours."

"Is that so?" Sebastian asked as he turned in Blaine's arms.

"It is. You're going to look incredible Bas."

"Could you give me a hint?"

"No as anything I could possibly think of might give it away. At least you don't have long to wait."

"That's good because I'm getting a bit impatient."

"Trust me Bas; it's more than worth it."

"You have a glimmer in your eye B."

"Do I?"

"You do. I can't wait to see what you're wearing the way you're talking about my costume."

"I can't wait either." Blaine replied. "How long do I have?"

"Maybe ten minutes, why?"

"Just have something to put away." Blaine then stretched and gave Sebastian a kiss. "I'll be back soon." Once that was said, Blaine grabbed his bag and headed out. Sebastian tilted his head slightly as he couldn't help but wonder what Blaine had picked up considering the bag didn't look familiar in the least.

While they were eating dinner, they were both caught off-guard when both of their phones began to ring. "Who's calling you?" Sebastian asked as he looked at his phone as he had no inkling to answer since they were eating.

"Brittany. You?"

"Santana. I think it's safe to presume their magazines arrived." Sebastian said. "Are you okay about all this?"

"I am."

It wasn't till dinner was over and the kitchen was clean did either of them start to return the calls they'd received during dinner. Not surprisingly, both sets of parents loved the photos as they had been told about them ahead of time. The last thing either of them had wanted was for their parents to be shocked when the issues arrived. Each of their Dads had expressed a bit of concern, but were happy to hear that both of them had thought it through and knew what might happen. That they hadn't gone into this with their eyes closed.

Even with as long as they'd been together, there were still certain moments in which their Dads got over protective. In this case, both of them more than understood their concerns as they'd obviously discussed them. While Blaine was on the phone with Rachel the doorbell rang so Sebastian went to go get it since he was done returning calls. Upon opening the door, Sebastian saw Tasha standing on the other side. "Come on in." He replied as he stepped aside.

"Is Blaine home?"

"He's in the living room, talking to Rachel."

"Is she here?" Tasha asked as they walked down the hall."

"No, he's on the phone. Is everything alright?" Sebastian couldn't help but ask as it wasn't often that Tasha just dropped by.

"Why don't we wait to talk about this when Blaine's off the phone?"

"Tasha."

"Seb, it's not bad, alright?"

"Depends on your definition."

Once the two of them walked into the room, Blaine raised his hand in acknowledgement. It was probably ten minutes later when he was finally able to get off of the phone. "Hey." Blaine said as he set his phone down on the table. "What brings you by tonight or should that be rather obvious to us both?"

"You're right, the issue is the reason I came by. Before I say anything else, let me say I'm so happy that you were both happy with the way it turned out."

"It was very tastefully done." Sebastian said. "Plus we got to see why you and Simon were so happy near the end."

"All of you looked incredible. But the look you two had in your eyes, made that shot."

"Since you've said the good, let's hear it." Sebastian said as he wrapped his arm around Blaine. "How bad is the backlash?"

"Honestly, it's not bad. I'd say ninety percent of the people love it. There are just a few vocal groups that can't believe we did that. But as Anna said, this is truly what wedding's look like nowadays. This issue was never about Brides, it was weddings and all the elements that go into it. Did we showcase amazing gowns, of course we did. But guys have never been absent from it."

"How bad?" Blaine asked.

"If it was really bad, I'd tell you. These few groups are just upset we strayed from the norm."

"Who was it aimed at Tasha?"

"Mainly at the magazine, but I felt you both had the right to know. You did this at my request."

"It's alright. We expected some sort of backlash." Sebastian said. "The fact that Anna wanted to do this and asked us to do it, is an honor."

"Seb."

"It's true. She could've asked anyone yet she chose us. And while I know part of it stemmed from the fact that B and I had gotten engaged, it still means something."

"Well, I can tell you she was absolutely blown away by the way the photos turned out. They were as she hoped. And while the girls aren't in a relationship, they were able to pull off a look similar to the one the two of you had."

"They did look rather sweet." Blaine said.

"I'm glad you think so as well." Tasha replied. "I want you both to know that should anyone give you a hard time about this issue, I need you to contact me immediately."

"Tasha, we've dealt with this sort of stuff before." Sebastian told her.

"Unfortunately, I know that. But this time around it will be because of work and it's up to me and the magazine to help."

"Cassie knows."

"I know, but please do this for me."

"We will." Blaine told her as he placed his hand on Sebastian's thigh. "Just know that Bas and I didn't go into this blind. And knew the chance of a backlash was high. But we're happy to hear that the response was mostly positive."

"It was and I hope you both know I wouldn't lie to you about something like this."

"That we do know." Sebastian said. "And while I might've sounded as though we aren't taking this seriously, we are. Considering what we've been through we know we need to take this seriously."

"Alright. I feel better now as I would never forgive myself should something happen to either of you."

"Should anything happen, we'll let you know." Blaine told her. "You have our promise."

"Thank you. Well, I'm sure I've already taken up enough of your time this evening so I better get going." When they went to get up, she told them it wasn't necessary but Blaine insisted as one of them needed to lock up behind her. Once they reached the door Tasha looked at Blaine. "Does he have any clue?"

"Not a one, but he's getting anxious. Personally I don't blame him since I know the feeling well. Are you going to be there?"

"But of course. This is one of the biggest Halloween parties in the city, I wouldn't miss it. Have you decided where you're getting ready?"

"Cooper and Lexi's."

"What about Sebastian?"

"Hunter is going to be bringing him his costume and they'll be arriving together. We felt it was the only way we could pull it off. If I'm with Lexi and Cooper he can't really argue with us arriving separately."

"How long after him will you be arriving?"

"The plan is for me to arrive no more than ten minutes after him."

"Are you arriving with anyone else?"

"Rachel and Brody. But I better get going otherwise Bas is going to start asking questions."

"I'm sure if he does you can find a way to change the subject."

"Tasha!"

"Blaine, your mind went to the gutter, I only stated that you'd be able to change the subject. You took that and ran." Blaine looked at her and shook her head. "Hopefully the next time we see you is the Halloween party."

"Agreed." Tasha then leaned over and gave him a kiss. "You two have a good night."