Ch 114
Kurt stepped off the plane and nearly fell to his knees to kiss the ground. He was so unbelievably happy to be back in New York and back to Blaine. He wasn't certain, but he felt like something was up. His phone call with Jeff that morning had been beyond bizarre and he grew more and more sure that something was happening that Blaine didn't want to talk about. Kurt needed to know what it was. He and Blaine were infamous for their lack of communication skills, but they were really working on it since Kurt's last snafu. Not telling Blaine about having to go out of town with David the week of their wedding was a big mistake on his part, and he owned it. He knew he should have said something much sooner, and he was determined to talk things over with Blaine instead of assuming he'd get around to it eventually.
He felt like he couldn't navigate the airport quickly enough. Every slow person on the planet was in front of him. Every meandering, elderly individual in New York City was in the airport, hindering his progress toward the love of his life. He dodged and wove a path between and around everyone ahead of him, trying to slip through the cracks and repeating "Excuse me" and "pardon me" a hundred times. Heart pounding from a mix of the pace he kept and his desire to see Blaine, he nearly dropped his carry on and slumped to the floor to weep with gratitude when he finally spotted him. Lord, but that man was a sight for sore eyes. Breath hitching, he broke into a sprint heading straight for his fiancé.
"Kurt!" Blaine exclaimed when he caught sight of him, catching the man who'd launched himself into his arms. "Oh my God, I've never been happier to see you in my whole life," he said, then buried his face in Kurt's neck, squeezing him for all he was worth. "I'm so glad you're home…God, Kurt, I've missed you so much…" he trailed off, noticing that Kurt hadn't said a word yet. "Sweetheart?"
He raised his head and pulled back a bit to look into Kurt's eyes, but found them wet with tears as Kurt tugged Blaine back in and held on tightly another moment. "I missed you so much…so much, B…"
"You're not allowed to leave anymore," Blaine chuckled. "It's a new rule I just created. No more traveling for more than 6 hours."
"Deal. I don't want to be away from you ever again. I'm so freaking sappy. You must think I'm crazy," Kurt said, his tears still flowing even though he was smiling at Blaine now. "The show was amazing and the line was a huge success with a lot of interest, but I should have never gone, B – not this week. And can we just talk about how excited I am that we're getting married in two days? Can we just…" Kurt began, so much excitement in his voice that Blaine had to smile at him even though he knew very well the discussion they had to have was going to be a rough one. "What? What is it? You're smiling but it's not reaching your eyes and you only do that when you're not really happy and you're just trying really hard to make me think you're happy when…Blaine?" he said, his voice breaking. "H-Have you…are you having second thoughts, or…?"
"What? NO! Oh, God, Kurt, absolutely not. I want to marry you more now than ever. Please don't think that." Blaine assured him.
"But? Don't tell me everything is fine, because I can tell it's not. What's going on?" Kurt asked, and the resignation that settled over Blaine's features made his stomach drop. "B, what happened?" he said softly. "Oh…Blaine…please tell me my dad's ok? Please…" Kurt whispered, eyes wide with fear.
"Burt's absolutely fine. He's fine, Kurt, I promise you that," Blaine assured him, then offered the best smile he could muster. "But…something's happened and I need you to not panic, ok? Everyone in our lives is healthy as a horse. Nothing happened to anyone…they're all well and good. But…sweetheart, there was a…um…." Blaine faltered, unable to spit the words out, knowing that as soon as he did, Kurt would be absolutely devastated.
"Shit. SHIT, Blaine…what's going on?" Kurt asked, now looking over his fiancé's shoulder. Blaine turned to find a very familiar, but uncertain looking group behind him and he tilted his head, curious as to what this welcoming party was doing. He'd left them all behind at the apartment less than an hour before, still making phone calls, and grabbed a cab to fetch Kurt from the airport…yet here they were, looking like a ragtag group of superheroes, standing shoulder to shoulder in the airport doorway.
"I…I'm not sure," Blaine said, turning to squint at the assembled group. The two of them walked toward the exit doors as Finn ambled over from the baggage claim towing Kurt's luggage. That garnered an even greater curiosity from Kurt as they all stared at one another, nobody knowing what to say, or what had already been said.
"What? I've picked you up at the airport more times than I can count. I'm the only one who knows what your luggage looks like," Finn said in answer to the un-asked question in Kurt's eyes.
Hands shoved in his pockets with a casual, yet smirking grin, stood Sebastian with Hunter next to him on one side and Rachel on the other. Finn joined the group, still holding Kurt's luggage, and they all looked to Blaine, unsure if he'd dropped the bomb yet or not.
"Well, he didn't break down or pass out, so I can only assume—" Sebastian began, but Blaine shot him an annoyed glance and wide eyes that pressed home the fact that the bomb hadn't yet been dropped. "Oh…yeah, ok, we'll uh…we can wait out in the car if you want?"
"WHAT is going on?!" Kurt all but yelled. At this point, it was clear that something wasn't right and he wanted to know what it was. Now. But it seemed that everyone wanted to beat around the bush.
"Kurt, it's ok, we'll make it work—" Rachel began, at the same time Hunter spoke as well.
"Don't worry, we've got this under control…I hope. We can—"
"Sweetheart…the news said—" Blaine started. Sebastian just rolled his eyes and shook his head at their insanity.
"Dude, that place where you were gonna get married burned up. You can't have it there anymore," Finn finally blurted out as if he were announcing the bus schedule of arrivals and departures to a bunch of tourists.
"W-what? That's…that's not even funny, Finn. Why would you…say…" Kurt fumbled for words, but the look on everyone's face said that Finn wasn't messing around. Something bad had gone down and Kurt's mind just spun out of control. "WHAT?! Are you…you're serious, aren't you? I can tell by the looks on your faces that you're not joking and…oh my God, Blaine…what? WHEN? How did this happen?!" Kurt said, his voice cracking as tears welled up in his eyes. "Oh my God, I knew I shouldn't have left…please…please be joking. You're joking right? This is all just…just…" Kurt began to babble, but Blaine stepped into his space again and lightly grasped Kurt's arms, staring into his eyes.
"Sweetheart…it's not a joke, and I'm so, so sorry, Kurt," Blaine said softly, hating that Kurt was outright crying now, and heading toward ugly crying quicker than he cared to think about. He needed to explain things and get them out of the public eye. "There was an electrical fire in the kitchen on the first floor and apparently the sprinkler system malfunctioned and the fire just spread. According to Ms. Tucker at St. Bart's, there is definitely smoke damage and a lot of water damage as well…" he trailed off, watching the color drain from Kurt's face. "Kurt…we'll figure something out, I promise. This wedding will still happen if I have to marry you in the middle of Times Square."
"Yeah, about that," Sebastian grinned. "I was hoping the two of you would accompany us on a little…excursion? I think we may have found a solution, but your compliance is needed, of course," he smiled.
"I think this will be a good thing, Kurt," Hunter said, slipping an arm around his friend's shoulders. It was clear that Kurt was about to completely melt down and he was breathing heavily trying to stay calm.
"Where are we going?" he asked, still choked up, and Blaine was glad Kurt asked, as he was in the dark as well.
Sebastian turned to head outside and a sleek, black limo pulled up to the curb to meet them at his wave.
"Who the hell's car is this? Am I being punked or something? I'm so confused…" Kurt said, shaking his head back and forth. Ethan, Jeff's driver, got out of the car and grabbed Kurt's luggage, putting it in the trunk as Sebastian held the door open and ushered everyone inside, climbing in behind them.
Blaine let out a low whistle and Finn grinned from ear to ear like a kid in a candy store. "There's Dr. Pepper and Pepsi in the little refrigerators!" he said, almost giddy. Rachel just smiled at him and rolled her eyes.
"This particular car is on loan from Blondie and sugar daddy," Seb grinned, winking at Kurt. "They'll meet us there, don't worry."
"Where's 'there'?" Kurt asked again.
"I'd like to know as well," Blaine added.
"Let me surprise you? You may say no…this may not be what you want, but I think you might like it, considering the circumstances, so indulge me a little, Hummel. Apparently, I've had to do a lot of favors in order to make this happen, up to and including risking my life, if we're being honest," he snickered, earning an elbow to the gut from Hunter.
"Not cool, Seb. Don't torment our friends. Clearly, they're a little…uptight," Hunter grinned with a fond roll of his eyes.
"Kurt…I know you're upset, and with good reason, of course," Rachel said. "But please…just give this a chance? I, personally, think this is a fantastic alternative—"
"OK! If nobody is going to divulge the location of the Bat Cave, then stop talking about it!" Kurt barked, obviously irked at everyone speaking in riddles and never giving him any real information. They all sat in stunned silence, eyes wide and staring at him.
"You know what the Bat Cave is?" Blaine whispered. Kurt just gave him a deadpan look that said "That's what you got out of that?"
"How long are we in this rolling penthouse?" Kurt asked, glancing out the window as they wove through traffic.
"Maybe 45 minutes? An hour with the rush hour traffic, maybe. Here…have a drink. Calm your nerves, and then just close your eyes and relax. Take a little nap. I'll wake you when we're close, how's that?" Hunter told him. Kurt didn't need to be asked twice. He reached over and opened up the little fridge in the back of the limo and poured himself a shot of the first liquor bottle he put his hands on. He didn't care what it was, and he just hoped it would calm his nerves and/or knock him out. "Wake me when we're close," he said, throwing back another half a drink. With that, he laid his head on Blaine's shoulder and closed his eyes. Blaine snuggled in as well and let his eyes fall closed, too, nodding off after a long day that had followed a fairly sleepless night.
"Ok, so…you need a place to have your wedding and reception. The place you had already paid for looks like a backyard barbeque gone wrong, so…we had to improvise," Sebastian explained as they rolled through high, iron gates surrounding what looked like an estate fit for a king…or at least a duke. Kurt's eyes were wide and he kept shifting from one side of the seat to another to see out the windows as they made their way up the winding driveway.
"Where are we and how long was I asleep? Jesus, Seb…" Kurt breathed out.
"Holy moly…" Blaine added, mouth agape as the pulled up to the massive house.
Everyone stepped out of the car, Kurt being last, and Blaine took his hand and pulled him out to stand next to him. Kurt turned a strict glare to Sebastian and gave him the snake eye.
"Explain, please."
"With pleasure," Seb smirked. "You see—"
"Start from the beginning, because I know your parents are in France, and I know Hunter's parents live in the city, so I need to know the whole story. Please."
"From the beginning, then. You'll recall some months back when I ended up in the hospital with bullets taking up residence in my body without my permission," Seb rolled his eyes. "Governor Harris and his wife were extremely grateful that those bullets hit me and not him. Of course, they were beyond appreciative, and Harris promised me that he was forever in my debt, that I had saved his life that evening and that if there was ever anything he could do to repay me, I was to ask for it immediately."
"But this isn't the governor's mansion," Kurt said with a curious look at the house, eyes squinted, unsure.
"It's not…technically. Let me finish, princess, because you asked for the whole story, didn't you? You'll also recall that there was an instance where I changed flights with Harris so that he could make it home for the birth of his granddaughter, which he would not have been able to attend if I hadn't switched with him. Again, he was 'forever in my debt', which I shook off and didn't pay much credence to. I don't keep score like that…much. But…there's a man who has done countless favors for me, and stuck his neck out for me numerous times in our short acquaintance, not the least of which was to talk some sense into the love of my life. He convinced him to give little ol' me another shot…and for that, Hummel, I am and will always be, unendingly grateful. And you know as well as I do that's not the only thing for which I'm in your debt – you just keep bringing amazing things into my life…" Sebastian said, turning to meet eyes with Hunter, whose own eyes went wide.
"Not yet…" he mouthed, eyes gleaming with a loving smile and a blush.
"But we won't keep lists," Sebastian winked at Kurt and Blaine. "So, when I found Mr. Sex-on-a-Stick-and-Sings-Like-a-Dream, here, all but passed out drunk on his sofa this morning, spouting off about fires and his deep desire to not disappoint the love of his life, I made a few phone calls. After seeing your scrapbook—"
"He called me," said a voice Kurt didn't recognize. They all turned to find Governor Harris coming down the impressive front stairway to greet them. "And if I recall correctly, you're Kurt?"
"Yes, sir, I am. And this is my fiancé, Blaine Anderson…my brother, Finn, and my best friend Rachel, his girlfriend…and you already know Hunter, I'm sure," Kurt chuckled. "It's very nice to see you again. The last time we met was under much worse circumstances, if I remember right."
"It was, it was…young Smythe, here, was keeping the medical staff on its toes and causing Hunter to lose a few years off his own life," Harris said, casting a glance at Sebastian.
"Hey, I like to keep things upbeat, what can I say?" Seb quipped. Hunter rolled his eyes at him.
"Welcome to our home. I hope it's everything you need, young man," the Governor said with a welcoming smile, giving Hunter and Sebastian a fond grin.
"I'm not sure I understand," Kurt said, still unsure as to what they were doing there.
"Blaine was clutching your scrapbook as if his life depended on it this morning," Sebastian explained. "When a few things fell out and we were putting them back in—"
"What fell out!?" Kurt asked, eyes wild.
"It's all back together now, love. I promise," Blaine chuckled, slipping his arm around Kurt.
"As I was saying…he was showing us your book and we came across the photos you'd added after attending a wedding with your family years ago. Blaine said you always wanted to have your wedding at that home, but it wasn't an option. I hope that maybe this is something…close. Maybe we can make this work?" Sebastian asked.
"Come on inside, gentleman…and young lady," he said, offering Rachel his arm. They climbed the stairs and stepped through the massive front doors into a huge entry hall with floor to ceiling pillars that extended all the way to the second floor.
"I still don't understand…this isn't the governor's mansion," Kurt said again.
"It's not," Governor Harris replied. "This is actually my wife's family home. She grew up here, we lived here before I was elected governor and we raised our own daughter here as well. We visit the governor's mansion now and again, but this is our home. My wife is an only child, you see, and it was later in her parents' lives when she came along. She was quite young when they passed, God rest them. We had been married barely a year prior to losing her mother, and less than a year later, her father as well. After losing her father, she inherited the house and it's been our home ever since."
As they passed through the massive front doors Kurt could hear voices, but couldn't tell which direction they were coming from, as the hall was so large. He turned in a circle, eyes wide as he took in the amazing home they'd stepped into.
"Come on in. I'm certain we have a lot of planning to do. I think you might recognize a few of our guests, too," the Governor grinned, leading them into a spacious parlor.
"Kurtie!" Jeff yelled, grinning like a fool as he barely restrained himself from vaulting over priceless pieces of furniture to get to his friend. "Oh…man…I can't tell you how sorry we all are about St. Bart's, Kurt. But I think Seb's found you another option!" he said excitedly.
Kurt took a good look around and was surprised to see Nick sitting comfortably next to Governor Harris' wife on a beautiful set of antique chairs. He gave Nick a raised eyebrow, curious as to how he was just sitting with this woman who was…or probably should be…a stranger to him.
"Mrs. Harris and my mother are old college friends," Nick said with a grin. "I can read you like a book, Kurt." Kurt just rolled his eyes and took a deep breath. This whole thing was such a whirlwind.
"Governor—" Kurt began, but he was cut off.
"Kurt, I think we can cut the formalities, don't you? Please, call me Richard, and this is my wife, Eileen," he said, holding his hand out to the woman who approached with a wide smile and bright eyes.
"Welcome to our home, Kurt…Blaine," she told them, and leaned in to hug them both. "So, I understand there's been a little bit of a catastrophe…but I'm so very hopeful that we can salvage your big day. I'm beyond excited to be able to help…that is, if you want to hold the wedding here, boys? Not here, as in 'in the living room' but here…" she said, taking Kurt by the hand and motioning for all of them to follow her. They walked back through the foyer and Kurt marveled, once again, at the massive, marble columns. He was in awe. "I know you must be devastated, Kurt. I know Blaine is as well, but he's had all day to come to terms with everything. Having it just sprung on you like this…well…" she prattled on as she led him down another hallway and stopped before a set of beautifully carved, wood and glass French doors. The sheers on the opposite side of the doors kept him from seeing what was in the next room, and he squeezed Blaine's hand as if his life depended upon it.
Kurt found that he was holding his breath, unsure what to think of everything. Blaine held his hand, obviously just as out of sorts as Kurt felt, but it seemed that all of their friends wanted to help them salvage what they could of their wedding, so Kurt thought he'd hear them out.
"I certainly don't want to put any pressure on you, boys, but please know that it's always been my dream to—" she paused as Richard cleared his throat behind her and fondly rolled his eyes. "Ok, well…you decide if this will work for you, hmm?" With that, she reached down and swung the doors open, then walked into the room to flick the light switch.
Kurt stared, agog, unsure what to say or if anything would actually leave his mouth if he tried to speak anyway. "Oh…." Is all that managed its way out. Eyes wide and mouth wider, he dropped Eileen's hand, as well as Blaine's, and descended the half dozen stairs down into the massive room. "Oh…" he managed again, and it came out as barely a huffed breath of air as he turned slowly, taking in every corner of the room, his heart pounding as he did so. "Blaine…" he said, and it was as much a statement as a plea.
The huge ballroom was a study in old world charm with warm tones in the polished wood floor. The color palette was serene, the walls painted a very warm, very pale blue-grey with creamy white wainscoting that reflected all the light from the glittering fixtures that hung from the ceilings. And, oh, what a spectacle those were! The bright ceiling was divided into large squares, each with a stunningly beautiful, sparkling chandelier hung in its center. The light danced from the tiny crystals and Kurt was mesmerized. The crowning glory, though, was the massive wall of leaded, beveled glass windows and doors which looked out over the water. He had no idea they'd traveled up the coast as he slept in the limousine, and the view was absolutely breathtaking.
"The dais at the end of the room…" Eileen said hesitantly, "there were grand dances here back in the day. The band set up there, but I think it would be a lovely place for you and Blaine to stand for the ceremony. We can put up a very tasteful tent out on the lawn, maybe…the weather is supposed to be lovely…some chairs, those little, white fairy lights…have your photos out there as well…if you'd like…" Eileen suggested, not wanting to push too hard. Kurt was still staring around the room, slowly making his way to the windows which looked out over a pristinely manicured lawn, then over the edge of the property to the water below.
Blaine didn't need to study the room or anything in it to know that it was perfect; it was exactly what Kurt had always wanted, and Blaine couldn't deny him this anymore than he'd deny him his next breath of air. Kurt reached out his hand and ran a finger down the edge of one beveled window, eyes still wide and fixed on the view before him. He turned and looked at Blaine, the hope in his eyes so evident that Blaine merely smiled back, every ounce of love he had for his fiancé showing in his grin.
"Eileen, I think that's your answer," he laughed, hugging her again. "You're sure you don't mind?" Blaine asked, brow furrowed. "As generous as this is, for you to allow us to use your home for the wedding, please remember…we have a lot of guests invited, and the reception was supposed to be in the same room as the wedding at St. Bart's and there will be so many people traipsing all over…" Blaine trailed off, unsure now if she knew what she'd be getting herself into. Her smile said she was up for the task, though.
"So…Kurt…is that a 'yes', dear?" Eileen asked, a hopeful smile on her face.
Kurt turned to her, still awed with the house and more so with this amazing, lovely room they were being offered. "If it isn't too much trouble, I'd be honored to say 'I do' to my amazing fiancé in this gorgeous space."
"YES!" Eileen all but crowed, clapping her hands together happily and doing a cute little jig in the doorway. Her smile bright, she immediately went into Mrs. Harris, First Lady of the great state of New York, mode.
"But…" Kurt began, his shoulders slumping, "I don't even know if we can have everything delivered way out here. I mean…the florist and the bakery…" he trailed off looking forlorn. Richard scoffed and rolled his eyes.
"When my beautiful wife calls them, Kurt, I'm sure there will be no problem. She's a force to be reckoned with, believe me, and they usually bend over backwards to be in her favor. My bride is nothing if not a generous soul, and she remembers those who scratch her back so she can repay the favor later. Give her a list of names and don't give it another thought," Richard told him.
"If you're sure, then. Oh…but…Blaine?" Kurt asked, his eyes pleading with his fiancé. He wanted this so much, but if Blaine didn't…
"As if I could deny you this…as if I could ever deny you anything, Kurt. If this is what you want, I think it'll be spectacular!" Blaine grinned.
"Ok, then?" Eileen asked excitedly, a huge grin on her face and wide eyes eager to see them agree to hold their wedding in her home.
Kurt and Blaine exchanged excited smiles, then nodded to her in unison.
"OH! I'm so very glad! This is going to be wonderful, boys, I promise! We have so much to do. Ok, who has the book?" she asked.
"Here! I do!" Jeff called from the doorway, then thrust it at her.
"Kurt, it's emergency strategizing time, I think. Who's in?" she asked, and they all followed her from the room and into the massive, brightly lit kitchen to sit around a well-used table as she flipped open her laptop. Richard brought several pads of paper and pens and the wedding plan, part two, was under way.
Eileen made copies of every name, phone number, website, list, sketch, receipt, idea and chart she could get her hands on. She was insanely organized and Kurt was thankful for it. His mind was such a blur that he was glad to have another set of eyes "in charge". She began making phone calls, striding around the large room as she spoke, lists in hand as she made notes, left messages and called in favors.
Two hours later, they all made their way back down the front steps toward the car with the promise to be back at the house the following day for lunch. Kurt and Blaine both hugged Eileen and shook hands with the governor before climbing into the limo to head home.
"So…how are you feeling now?" Blaine asked, all eyes on them as the car pulled down the driveway, heading back to the city.
"Better. Much better. I think I'm actually more excited about the wedding now than I was before. You know I had always hoped for something…more…but we just didn't know how to make that happen and so I settled," Kurt shrugged. "In the end, I'd love you just the same if I married you in Oz or on the moon, but…this…Blaine, this is going to be the most beautiful thing," Kurt finished softly. He shifted his eyes to find Sebastian who was leaning on Hunter, their hands clasped together. "Thank you," Kurt said, his cheeks pink. "I don't know that I'll ever be able to repay this favor, Seb."
"I won't ask you to, or expect you to. It's not about that. It's about knowing how to fix a problem and doing what you have to do to make that happen. Besides, Hunter likes you, so…" he trailed off, rolling his eyes and feigning disinterest. Kurt just smiled and shook his head, realizing that Blaine was snuffling into his shoulder already. "He had a rough night," Hunter said quietly. "I guess he saw the fire on the news last night and panicked. Seb found him this morning, all but passed out cold on the sofa, a bottle of booze in one hand and your scrapbook clutched to his chest in the other. He was so afraid to disappoint you, Kurt."
"Never…it couldn't be helped. Surely this isn't Blaine's fault, nor could I ever hold him responsible for something like this. The planning fell into place too smoothly. Something was bound to happen, and it did. Thankfully, we have amazing friends and family to help us pull it all together in a pinch. The next two days promise to be…busy. But Eileen seems eager to make it happen."
"It seems so, doesn't it?" Sebastian chuckled. "I thought you were going to chop her arm off when she walked off with your book."
"Nobody touches the book, Seb," Kurt said with mock ferocity. "Hands off the book!"
"Well, she has her own photocopies now, so she won't have to put her paws on your book again," he laughed. "Mrs. Harris is definitely a force to be reckoned with, that's for sure. I'd be willing to bet my next paycheck that she's still on the phone, right now, calling in the troops to get this just perfect for you guys. When I called them this afternoon, and told Harris what I wanted, he actually laughed at me. I thought he was going to say there was no way in hell he would agree to that, but he just passed her the phone and she was beyond excited. Apparently, she wanted their daughter to get married at the house but they had opted for a destination wedding instead, much to Mrs. Harris' chagrin. This is apparently a dream come true for her, so you've made her a happy woman, Kurt."
"I can't thank them enough. I just hope Blaine's happy with it as well."
"Did you see his face? As long as you're happy, Kurt, then he's thrilled. It's kinda sickening, but whatever," Sebastian snarked with his trademark smirk.
"Oh my God!" Kurt suddenly hissed out, eyes wide. "Are the girls here? Did they make it in ok? I didn't even ask!"
"I got 'em this afternoon, Kurtie. They're snug as a bug in a rug at their hotel and apparently," Jeff said, checking his phone, "they'll be at your apartment tomorrow morning, ready to lend a hand with whatever needs to be done. Quinn said they'd be in charge of calling all of the guests or getting in touch in some way to tell them about the change of venue. We just have to get her a list."
"I feel terrible. It's going to cost a fortune for people to get to the new venue. Oh my gosh, it's…wait, this might be a deal breaker," Kurt said sadly.
"Taken care of," Nick told him, trying to calm their friend.
"Oh, how so?" Kurt questioned.
"He has lots of friends, Kurtie. He's made sure that there are travel arrangements made for the guests. Don't question it, just let him do his thing, ok?" Jeff grinned, leaning over to kiss Nick on the cheek.
"But the cost—" Kurt began again.
"Isn't for you to worry about, now is it?" Nick asked with a smile. "The two men who brought me the love of my life, and then kept him close to me when things got bad, are getting married and if there is anything I can do…anything at all…to make that flow smoothly, then I'm going to do it. Period. End of conversation," Nick told him.
"Thank you," Kurt said softly, unsure what else there was for him to say as Blaine shifted against him and snuffled again. "Rachel, you're oddly quiet," Kurt sassed. She grinned at him and tilted her head.
"I just don't even know what to say, Kurt. It's been a crazy, whirlwind of a day and I'm just so glad it's going to work out. I was devastated when I saw the news and when I called Blaine he was so freaked out. But, here we are, all of us pulling together to make it happen. I'm just glad to be a part of it, that's all."
"I've been so distracted tonight, I didn't even ask where Dad and Carol are."
"They went out to dinner with my dads. Burt was really upset when he heard about the fire, but we assured him we'd make it right. Finn already texted them to let them know about the change of venue, so they're up to date on what's going on. You'll see Burt tomorrow. Tonight, I think the two of you need to get some much-needed rest, don't you?" Rachel asked. Finn had long ago slumped over with his head in her lap and she absently ran her fingers through his hair. Kurt smiled and made a mental note to talk to Finn about a few things before the actual wedding. He was supposed to hold the rings, after all, and that was quite a big responsibility. Knowing Finn, he'd eat them.
"I should be utterly exhausted, but my mind is racing and my body feels like it's on some crazy sugar high," Kurt said, rolling his eyes. "I'd say we should all go out tonight…one last shindig…but I don't want to push my luck. Everyone's tired, obviously. Oh…wait…why aren't you guys at the Dive? Shouldn't you be playing tonight?"
"Nah. When Blaine told Mac about the wedding and how we'd all need off, he decided it was a great time to have some sort of Labor Day Battle of the Bands or something. That's Saturday night. Tonight is some kind of drag queen showdown. Davina made that happen and I'm sure she'll wipe out the competition and take home every prize," Nick said with a wink. "Tomorrow he has that Zydeco band back in. He really wanted to be sure that we all had time to do what we needed to do in preparation for the wedding. I think he has a soft spot for Blaine…well, both of you guys. He says he's got a lot of time invested in this relationship," Nick laughed.
"I think Blaine's going to miss working there," Kurt said softly, running his fingers through Blaine's curls as he slept, head pillowed softly on Kurt's lap. "I'm glad he told them he'd keep one night a week, and he wants to be the first one called if the piano player calls out sick. He'll miss playing with you guys all the time," he smiled.
"We'll miss him, too. I've been uh…I've been thinking that maybe it's time for me to cut back to maybe just two nights a week. I don't want to leave them in the lurch, but there's a lot going on in my life…a lot more than there was before you guys all came along," Nick replied, letting his head fall to rest on Jeff's shoulder. "Not that I'm complaining."
"Ya know…I'm not really tired and after they sleep all the way home, these guys might want to go hang out for a little bit. I'm sure the girls are chomping at the bit to get out of their hotel room. Maybe we can just head down to the Dive for a drink or two?" Jeff suggested.
"Let's see how they feel when we get back into the city. I'm game…but if Blaine didn't sleep well last night, he may want to just stay in tonight," Kurt answered, but he was secretly a little bit excited to go out. If Blaine wasn't going to let them have any fun in the bedroom before the wedding, Kurt would need to tire himself out so he hit the pillow and passed out immediately instead of lying there, pining for his soon to be husband.
"What time are we due back at…um…the uh…" Blaine began, but seemed to forget what he was trying to say. Kurt just rolled his eyes and laughed.
"Ok, I think that's enough of that," he chuckled, taking Blaine's drink away and setting it on the bar. Micky snickered and disposed of the cup, shaking his head at the guys and all of their friends who'd come to The Dive for a couple hours. It was weird waiting on them, as most of them were generally on the stage playing instruments. It'd been a long time since they'd all been there just to hang out and have a few drinks.
"But I was drinking that," Blaine pouted, giving Kurt the puppy dog eyes.
"Yes. Yes you were…and before that you were drinking another one…and before that, another one…and before that—"
"Ok, Ok, point made. I get it," Blaine laughed. "Water would be good, though, right?"
"I think that'd be an excellent idea," Kurt replied, turning to ask for two cups of water. The music played on and the two of them sat next to each other on barstools just watching the patrons of the bar acting like crazy people. Nick had been right. They were having a Diva-Off at the Dive and Davina was strutting her stuff all over the place. The music wasn't live, but there was a good mix of tunes and everyone was dancing. The girls were there with them, mixed in somewhere on the dance floor with Finn, Rachel, Trent, Thad, Nick and Jeff. Hunter and Sebastian had stopped by for a few minutes, but didn't stay very long. Hunter had to work the following day and he'd spent his whole day off traipsing around town with and for Blaine and Kurt. They didn't press the issue when he said he needed to get going and get some sleep.
Kurt had stopped off at their apartment to change clothes and make a few phone calls when they got home. He wanted to touch base with his Dad and also with the girls. When he said they were thinking about going out, Mercedes didn't even ask Santana or Quinn before saying they'd be happy to meet everyone at The Dive. Kurt was glad. He needed some time with them to just de-stress and try to veg out before the wedding. He knew the following day would be full of preparations and stress, but he was up for it. He spent a good couple of hours out on the floor with his friends dancing, singing and enjoying himself as if he didn't have a care in the world.
"In less than 48 hours I'll be your husband," Blaine whispered in Kurt's ear as they danced slowly, a few other couples around them on the floor.
"You will…and I'll be yours. Getting cold feet yet?"
"Absolutely not!" Blaine grinned, leaning in to nip at Kurt's earlobe. "You?"
"No way. I can't think of anything I'd rather do than marry the man of my dreams. You couldn't pry me away with a crowbar."
"I hadn't planned on trying that, but it's good to know anyway," Blaine laughed.
The bartenders rang the big bell over the bar signaling last call, and shortly thereafter people started to make their way to the doors. Kurt and Blaine continued to sway together on the floor until the lights came up and they realized there were very few people left. Blaine took a good look around and exhaled long and loud as a newer employee started pushing a broom around. He tugged Kurt up the steps and onto the stage with him, then continued to sway out of the way of the brooms down on the dance floor.
"I'm gonna miss this place."
"You're keeping one night a week, though, aren't you?"
"Yeah, but…it won't be like being here every night, ya know? This was my first 'home' when I came here. These guys were my first friends and I've spent an awful lot of time here getting to know the people and their stories. Everyone's got a story, I guess," he said softly.
"Don't get all melancholy on me now," Kurt admonished. "You know, if you want to keep more days, you can just ask Micky and Mac to only hire someone for two or three days a week. But I don't want you to get burned out. Please know that I won't freak out, though, if you want to keep another day or two here. I know you love to play, and I don't want you to regret anything when you talk to them."
As if on cue, the lights dimmed and Micky and Mac came out from behind the bar and the back room. Micky walked over to the stage and caught Blaine's attention. Blaine merely nodded, and walked to the edge of the stage to whisper something to him, then Micky handed Blaine something and turned to go.
"Everything's off? You're sure?" Blaine asked. Micky turned back with a big grin and nodded.
"I made sure. You know where to leave the key, then?" he asked.
"Yeah…I'll put it right where you said…and thanks, man. I owe you one," Blaine told him, grinning widely.
"Yeah, well…don't forget to set the alarm, loverboy," Micky said, then fondly rolled his eyes and waved goodbye before heading out the door.
"Why are we still here and everyone's gone?" Kurt said quietly. It was weird to be in the normally boisterously loud and crazy bar all alone. It was even more weird that it was all but silent and dark inside. Blaine approached Kurt slowly, a predatory smirk on his face as he did so.
"I uh…you can say no if you want to, Kurt, but…and I know we talked about not…um…about waiting, but…a little while back we had that conversation about…being vanilla…." Blaine said quietly, his arms back around Kurt as he swayed them back and forth again. They moved slowly to the sound of Blaine humming a random tune until Kurt's butt bumped into the piano and they couldn't move any further. The clinkplunktinkle of the piano keys behind him made Kurt giggle, and it was almost as beautiful as the blush on his cheeks.
"B…are you saying what I think you're saying?" Kurt asked, mock scandalized.
"Maybe. Ok, yes. I mean…I know damn good and well you weren't going to say ok to an audience…at least not tonight," he grinned, "but…since I don't know how many days I'll be here anymore and it's kind of a special occasion for us this week…Micky agreed to leave me a key and, most importantly, to turn off the security cameras if I wanted to…entertain you…in my own way…after hours."
"Oh my GOD, Blaine, you TOLD HIM?!" Kurt hissed, absolutely scandalized now. His eyes were wide and he was pink from the neck up. "I'll never be able to look him in the eyes again!"
"Yeah, well, they're no angels, Kurt. I'd only been here for a month when I came in early one day to stock and found the two of them going at it on the bar. Not even kidding…" he said when he saw that Kurt was surely going to say "You have got to be kidding!?" "I told him he could consider it a wedding gift if he wanted to and he got a good laugh out of it. So…whadda ya say, fiancé? Wanna defile my piano?"
"I dunno, Blaine. I mean…you said you wanted to wait until after the wedding and that it was tradition to—" Kurt began, but Blaine saw the teasing look in his eyes and grabbed his lover by the hips, spinning him around to face the piano with a few more plinks of the ivories. Kurt inhaled sharply, his heart racing as Blaine wove their fingers together and grabbed the edge of the piano top, nudging his hips up into Kurt's butt.
"Last chance to say no, Kurt. Otherwise you're all mine, baby," Blaine whispered in his ear and nipped at Kurt's neck as he let his head fall back to Blaine's shoulder. "What do you say, love. Wanna make some beautiful music on another piano?"
"Oh my God, Blaine," Kurt giggled. "Yes…god, yes. You know I do!"
"I really hoped you'd say yes!" Blaine growled, then fished in his pocket for the lube and condom he'd stuck in there before they'd left the apartment. He set them on the top of the piano and took his time touching, teasing and tasting the love of his life, ready and willing to make beautiful music with Kurt all night long. "The next time we do this, you'll be my husband," Blaine grinned, nipping at Kurt's collarbone.
"Mmmm…I will…and you'll be mine. I can't think of anything better than that…but keep doing what you're doing and I may be forced to reevaluate," Kurt giggled. Blaine was not one to leave his lover wanting, so he did as he was told.
"Oh, Kurt, Blaine, you're here!" Eileen yelled from across the room the following morning. He and Blaine had slept in a bit longer than they'd planned and woke up around 10 a.m., insanely grateful for the aspirin and bottle of water he'd downed before they went to bed. They inhaled a quick bite, waited for their group of friends to assemble at their apartment and set out for the new and improved venue to see how things were going. Kurt was a bit worried with everything that needed to be done in such a short time, but he obviously underestimated the power of, one, Eileen Harris.
"Holy mother of pearl…" he breathed out, eyes wide as he approached the lady of the house. There were no fewer than a dozen other people scurrying around the large ballroom, none of whom Kurt was acquainted with at all, and he watched as they each went about their business as if they'd been choreographed. "Who are all these people?"
"Well…some of them are my staff, some are friends, some came with friends…" she trailed off, turning to watch the controlled chaos that was now her home. "Isn't it lovely, though? And it looks like you brought more troops, too!" she said, eyeing the group assembled behind Kurt and Blaine. Jeff, Quinn, Santana, Mercedes and Rachel had met the guys at their apartment and they'd all piled in the car that Jeff arrived in to make their way to the Harris' estate.
"We're here to help!" Rachel piped up, her smile wide and bright. "Just tell us what you need done and point us in the right direction!"
"How…" Blaine began, but couldn't seem to form other words. He just glanced at Kurt, eyes wide and blinking as he, too, watched everyone scamper in and out of the room as if in fast forward mode.
"Being the Governor's wife has its perks, boys. When I call, people respond. It's a good thing…for us…for you…and rest assured, I will remember each and every favor offered to me when it's time to return said favors. My ladies' gardening group is due any time now. They'll be making sure the gardens are in top form as well as the solarium that's off the other end of the ballroom. It's absolutely lovely when the sun sets. You may want to have some photos taken in the garden, or in the solarium if the weather isn't cooperating. Although, I got in touch with a friend in the local newsroom this morning and the forecast is good, if we can get that one band of showers to move out early…" she trailed off, watching across the room again. "Oh, Marcus…let's put that over near the first set of doors…" she said, waltzing off to one of her helpers and leaving them to gape at the absolutely magnificent transformation which had happened seemingly overnight.
Tables and chairs had somehow arrived, and more were being moved in as they watched. The tables were covered in beautiful, ironed, black linens with stunning ivory place settings lined up around the edges and the chairs all had a tasteful slipcover in ivory with a dainty black bow tied around the back of the chair to keep it in place. The stemware sparkled in the afternoon sunlight which streamed in from every pane of glass in the room. There were at least half a dozen people with spray bottles, squeegees and towels polishing the windows and doors leading outside, and there was even a team of window washers up on the roof tending to four huge skylights with leaded glass. The room was magnificently lit, even without a single electric light fixture shining.
Several women were weaving fresh greenery around the sconces on the walls as well as through some of the hanging light fixtures that were accessible and not too high. There were stunning ribbons and even sparkling picks intertwined making everything look polished and finished, Kurt noticed as he walked over to examine the beautiful work they'd done.
"In the morning we'll weave through some of the baby's breath and roses on order," a soft voice said from Blaine's left. Both men turned to find a petite brunette working on the next sconce in line on the wall. "I hope you don't mind…I took the liberty of ordering a few dozen more of the roses and other flowers you already asked for so that we could do this…" she trailed off, uncertain.
"No…no, we absolutely don't mind. I can't get over all of this…I'm just in awe," Kurt told her, a genuine smile on his face. He caught Eileen's eye again and she winked before being summoned from the room by someone unseen in the hallway. "This is more than I ever imagined…this is so…just so much…so lovely," he said. Overcome with everything, he turned and hugged Blaine to him, feeling tears in his eyes and unwilling to let them fall in front of people he didn't know.
"Sweetheart," Blaine said, squeezing him back. "Is it what you wanted?"
"It's so much more. I'll never be able to thank everyone enough. I'm so utterly overwhelmed with the kindness of complete strangers. How can we ever repay everyone?"
"I don't really think they expect us to do that, Kurt, but we'll find a way," Blaine told him.
When Eileen came back into the room, Kurt asked her how they could help and she pulled out a long list of things on a legal pad, some of which had been marked off and some which had not. She put them to work and went on her merry way, supervising everyone and putting finishing touches here and there. They worked for hours, each of them making sure it was to Eileen's specifications, marking off every little thing on her list until she shooed the boys out and told them to go home and get some rest.
"Tomorrow's the big day, boys. The tent is being delivered and set up around ten tomorrow morning, the second set of tables and chairs is in the carriage house. Marcus, my personal assistant, is in charge of the team that will move them to the tent, and have everything set up out there. My bridge partner's son is an electrician. He'll be here to hang the lights and be sure that the light in the tent is sufficient. He'll also make sure to illuminate the walkway from the yard into the ballroom in case the guests choose to move between the two, of course. Then the wedding deliveries start at 10:30 a.m. The florist will be here first, the cake should arrive around noon, the caterers will be here shortly after that and everyone else will filter in in the afternoon. We have it all under control, so don't you worry about a thing!"
"You have taken care of everything, Eileen, and I'm just speechless! I can't believe the whole transformation of this room. It was absolutely beautiful before, but now it's just…stunning. I'm so overwhelmed with how everything has come together, and how you've assembled this team of people who just swooped in and made our every wish come true. 'Thank you' will never be enough," Kurt gushed. Blaine just nodded beside him, just as overwhelmed as his fiancé at everything still going on as they were shooed out of the estate.
"None of that, now, boys! You know as well as I do that I'm having the time of my life with this venture, so you just don't worry about thanking me. I'm in my element and this has been the most fun I've had in ages! Now…we can't have you sleepy and fatigued. Go home, have a good dinner, watch a movie or something and get to bed early. We'll have everything ready to go when you get here tomorrow. Oh, and I know we didn't really discuss this, but there are at least half a dozen well-appointed rooms upstairs for the wedding party to use. Each one has a full-length mirror as well as a large mirror in the bathrooms in the suites or in the hallway. They're at your disposal. Our normal staff will be on hand as well as a handful of hired help in case you need anything at all, ok? All you need to do is yell and someone will come running," she said proudly with a wide smile. "Oh, this is so much fun!" she exclaimed, hugging Kurt and then Blaine in turn, kissing both boys on the cheeks and then sending them off as she hurried in the other direction.
"I'm so glad you were all able to have dinner with us tonight," Kurt said, grabbing Burt's hand as he sat next to him at dinner. "I feel like I haven't been able to see you at all since you got here and it's all been such a whirlwind, what with the venue and the fire and everything. I'm sorry…" he said, shaking his head. Burt, of course, just laughed.
"Nothin' to worry about, kid. We've had enough on our plates that it would have been next to impossible to get together before tonight anyway. I had to be fitted for my suit, and so did Bill. Carol and Cris have been shoe shopping and I think they both took their dresses to be pressed or something today," Burt said, casting a glance at the ladies at the table. Cris winked when Kurt looked away.
"And that's another thing. Neither of you have even asked for me to help you with your dresses. I wanted so badly to…" he began, then sighed, shaking his head. "I wanted to make them for you, but time just got away from me and I wasn't able to. I'm sorry."
"Oh, for goodness sake, Kurt! It's not as if you haven't been busy as can be with your own life. We're perfectly capable of buying a dress for our sons' wedding," Carol said, a gleam in her own eye. "Don't you worry about that…I've seen Cris' dress and it's stunning!"
"And I've seen Carol's and I'm green with envy," Cris added, her smile bright.
"And I've seen neither of them and I'm the resident designer…and it's my wedding! What gives? What's with the secrecy?" Kurt demanded looking a bit put out.
"I have it on good authority that the dresses will meet or exceed your standards, Kurt. Believe me. You don't have to worry about and be in charge of every aspect. Don't you trust us?" Carol teased him.
"It's not that, it's just that…well…you know me!" Kurt said, rolling his eyes. "Blaine, you're not helping me!"
"Don't bring me into this fiasco. Nope…I'm sitting over here and keeping my mouth shut. No way I'm chiming in," Blaine said, taking another bite of his dinner. He waited for Kurt to turn to Burt for backup and winked at the ladies across the table.
"So, can we go over the itinerary for the festivities tomorrow?" Quinn asked, changing the subject quickly. With a last huff, Kurt dropped the discussion about the dresses and rattled off the schedule for the following day.
"I know we didn't really have time for a rehearsal at the venue, but you've all been there except for Cooper—"
"Jeff brought me up to speed. He showed me the diagram Mrs. Harris sent home, where the aisle is going to be, where us guys are going to stand, where the kids and Rachel will walk down before you and then…you and Burt…and Mom and Blaine, right?" Cooper said as Kurt nodded.
"And you're sure you touched base with every guest? They know where they'll be picked up?" Blaine asked Quinn, certain that the girls did just that. She nodded, her mouth full, then grinned and nudged Mercedes, who snickered at her.
"Mmhmmm…and we made sure to give each one of them our cell phone numbers just in case there was a mix up. They'll be able to get in touch with someone, but I don't foresee any issues. The map has been made and shared, the timetable is generous and Mrs. Harris has been so unbelievable…that woman is a force of nature, isn't she?" Mercedes added. "Did you know she had her own staff order food for tomorrow, making sure there were drinks and appetizers for the guests as they arrive. She said if they have to be in the car for any length of time, she wants to be sure they're comfortable when they arrive."
"She's like our fairy godmother," Kurt chuckled. "But you guys…you've all done so much to help, and I can't thank you enough. I know making a hundred phone calls isn't what you signed up for when you came up here, but you didn't even flinch, you just jumped in and for that we're both very grateful."
"That's why we're here, Porcelain. Just give me a list of what needs to be done and I'm on it. But you can bet I'll be gettin' my drink on tomorrow after this dog and pony show is over and the knot is tied," Santana snarked, her smile wide.
"Knock yourself out, Santana. There will, apparently, be plenty of cars for the wedding party and our guests to get home so that everyone can imbibe to their heart's content," Blaine grinned.
"And you two…you're still staying at the hotel tomorrow night? I planned on just leaving our stuff at your place tonight, Kurt," Santana asked. He nodded, his mouth full, as she went on. "You're ok with us staying there Saturday night, Papa Burt?"
"Absolutely!" he said in answer.
"Oh, it'll be like having daughters! I've never had daughters!" Carol gushed. "If we're not all too plowed we can watch movies, talk about boys and do our nails! Ooooh, and if we get really toasted, we can go through Kurt's drawers and see if we find anything fun!" she gushed, then burst into laughter as did everyone else at the table as Kurt nearly choked on his salmon.
"Soooo…this is it, huh?" Kurt asked that evening after dinner, his heart beating wildly in his chest in their apartment.
"This is it. The next time I see you will be at the wedding," Blaine grinned. "You're still sure this is what you want?"
"You have to ask?"
"Just wanna be sure."
"I've never been more certain of anything in my life. You, Blaine Devon Anderson, are the love of my life and nothing and nobody is going to come between us. I can't wait to be yours."
"You're already mine in every way that counts…my heart, my soul, my one true love," Blaine teased him, grinning madly as he pulled Kurt in for a long kiss. "I can't wait to be yours, either," he breathed out, softly touching his forehead to Kurt's. "I could just stay…"
"Or, you could turn around, march over to that kicked puppy near the stairwell and head on home with him for the night," Kurt chuckled. "I think if you deny him this, he'll never forgive you."
"Yeah, what Kurt said!" Jeff chimed in, rolling his eyes. "Let's go, loverboy. We have beer to drink, pizza to order and stupid movies to binge watch!"
"Tell Nick I said hello," Kurt called as Blaine kissed him one last time and walked toward the stairs.
"He's not there. He's in Chicago for the night. He said he couldn't bear to watch me sleep with Blaine the night before another wedding—"
"Oh, YOU!" Kurt huffed, reaching for an apple from the fruit bowl and raising his arm.
"NO! Jeez, Kurt! Don't you remember what happened the last time you did that!" Blaine laughed. "Nobody needs to be in a cast in our wedding pictures!"
With a huff, a smirk and a sigh, Kurt put the apple back and walked over to kiss Blaine one more time.
"I'll see you tomorrow at the altar, B."
"I'll be the one with hearts in my eyes. Don't be late. I love you, Kurt."
"I love you, too. Have a fun night, guys," he said, swatting Blaine on the butt as he turned to go.
"Oh…wait…" Blaine said, running back up the stairs to whisper in Kurt's ear. "And you hid…everything?"
"Yes…every last thing I could think of that might be even remotely embarrassing if they found it," Kurt snickered. "Don't worry your pretty little head."
"Good, Ok…thanks…love you!"
"Love you more!" Kurt called, laughing, as Blaine sprinted down the steps again.
Fifteen minutes later Rachel ran up the stairs, smiling widely and carrying her overnight bag.
"Oh my GOSH, you're getting married tomorrow!" she bellowed, throwing herself into Kurt's arms.
"I am…and I am so unbelievably happy. I'm the luckiest man in the world!"
"Ya know…next to Finn, you just might be!" she laughed. "Now…put a drink in my hand and I'll get out the movies. The girls should be here any minute. They just had to grab their bags from the hotel and they said they'd be over."
Kurt poured Rachel a frozen margarita from his blender just as the girls let themselves in and dragged all of their belongings up the steps. After everyone was situated, they poured drinks, ordered fattening food and put on movies they had no intention of watching. They talked, laughed and drank until the wee hours of the morning.
Unable to sleep, Kurt snuggled closer into Rachel's back in the middle of his bed and finally drifted off with a grin on his face. Tomorrow he'd marry Blaine, and he couldn't wait.
Kurt woke up slowly, warm…overly warm…and to a soft clicking sound that instinctively made him cringe.
"Cooper, I swear to all that is holy and good…" he grumbled, not even opening his eyes. The chuckle that he got in return told him that he wasn't wrong in his assumptions.
"But this is just…just the sweetest damn thing I've ever seen, and in my past life, would have been jerk off material just thinking of being in your place right now, Kurtie," Cooper teased.
"Jer…WHAT?" Kurt said, a bit more awake now. He lifted his head and pried his eyes open, glancing around to figure out why he could barely move, and why the hell he was so dang warm. He was smack dab in the middle of his king size bed with Rachel in front of him, her back to his chest, just as they'd fallen asleep the night before. Mercedes was tucked in behind him, her arm over his belly and her face smushed into his shoulder. Quinn was sort of horizontal across the bottom of the bed, her tiny feet sticking out of the blanket burrito she'd rolled into, and Santana was horizontally across the very top of the bed, smushing everyone's pillows under her body with her forearm and hand over Rachel's face. Kurt couldn't stop himself from giggling, and when Cooper joined him, they ended up belly laughing until they woke up everyone else. "Send me that photo?" Kurt asked when he was finally able to talk.
"Already did, bro," Cooper replied.
"Bro…" Kurt chuckled. The only person who ever called him that was Finn, on occasion. "Bro," he said again, quietly, then his eyes flew open. "Bro!? Oh my God…I'm…you'll be my brother today. I'm marrying Blaine! I'm getting married today!" he said excitedly, then fought his way out of the heap of bodies in his bed, jumping up and down a few times for good measure. I have to get going, there's so much to do!" he laughed, then sprinted for the kitchen. "COFFEE!" He bellowed, hearing the giggles and mumbled replies from the bedroom. It was going to be a good day. He could feel it!
A/N It's been forever, and I'm sorry. I won't fall over myself explaining, just know that I really wanted to get this part out now, even though it's not what I'd planned. I said probably one more chapter and an epilogue...well, this one, the wedding and then the epilogue, I think. Cut me some slack...there's been a lot going on! :D :D :D Not the least of which is moving...so cleaning, packing, getting rid of anything and everything we don't need or won't use. But it'll be worth it.
As always, thanks to Suzanne for getting this back to me super quick once I finished it. :)
Thanks for sticking around with me! Hope you're all well!