Crowded House

by kellyb321

All of your favorite Warblers and a few new faces, too. Follow our boys as they start their lives in NYC, each couple facing their own challenges, heartbreak, self-discovery and redemption. Stick around as they realize support, acceptance and most importantly, true love can all be found in one big Crowded House. Heavy on the Klaine and Niff.

116. Chapter 116

For Pat, who always reviews as a guest, but who has steadfastly encouraged me to continue this story, to finish it, and to share it with anyone still out there reading about our boys. My apologies that it's taken so long, but some pretty heavy stuff was going on in my life and...well, here's the final chapter. The epilogue is much shorter, I promise, and it'll probably be up this weekend.
Thank you for sticking with me! I sincerely hope this is a fitting ending to the story, as you've all been so unbelievably patient, encouraging and kind over the past (dear God, yes, it's been THAT long) almost NINE YEARS. I welcome any and all comments, reviews and messages...however you want to throw your two cents in. Thank you...just...thank you. Much love.

Ch 115

"Wipe that silly, love-sick grin off your face and thank me for the aspirin and the water at 3 am," Jeff said, watching Blaine slowly wake up. His own eyes were only half open and he wore a smug grin, knowing Blaine may be feeling the numerous toasts they'd made the past evening.

"You're my savior," Blaine snickered, still mostly asleep with his eyes still soundly closed.

"Yeah, yeah…" Jeff mumbled out through a yawn and pulled himself into a sitting position against the headboard. He sat quietly, watching his best friend slowly wake up.

"It's today, isn't it?" Blaine nearly giggled.

"It's today," Jeff answered. "And it's about time. I have waited a long, long time to see you this unbelievably happy, knowing all the while that you deserved it, more than anyone I know, and I couldn't be happier for you, B."

"I love him. God, Jeff…I love him so much it's crazy…but you, you'll always be my first best friend. Always. He knows, he understands, he encourages it and he loves you, too. Thank you for everything. Thank you for all of it, every day of our lives since the beginning…thank you for always standing up for me, for being by my side, and for just being you. I'm so grateful for you in my life, and now for Nick as well."

"Sappy, sappy asshole," Jeff murmured, obviously choked up by Blaine's words. "I love you, too, man."

"I can be sappy. I'm marrying the love of my life today," Blaine grinned, eyes closed again as he stretched and groaned before sitting up against the headboard as well.

"I have something for you guys. I want to give it to you now, because I don't want to have to cart it to the wedding and reception, and I'll make sure it gets to your apartment afterwards, but…here. I think it's kind of 'our thing'," Jeff chuckled as he hopped out of bed in his boxers and scampered across the room. He snagged a gift wrapped in beautiful silver and ice blue paper with a matching bow and walked back over to the bed. It was big, but not obviously heavy as Jeff set it in Blaine's lap.

"What is it?" Blaine grinned, looking from the gift up to Jeff.

"For real? Open it up, B!" Jeff laughed. "Now remember when Nicky and I got hitched and you gave us the framed photos that everyone took the night we finally met in person at The Dive? Well…yeah…"

Blaine took a deep breath and grinned. "I sincerely wish I had a photo of the night Kurt and I met, but I don't think anyone…" he began, tearing at the paper. "You…but I didn't…" he said, suddenly choked up. "Jeff, HOW did you…" Blaine said, his chest all but heaving now, trying not to get all sentimental.

He'd unwrapped a photo frame which was about a foot wide and three feet tall. Matted and framed inside was a blown-up version of the relevant screen shots of Blaine's text message to Jeff on that very first morning that he'd seen Kurt outside the window in the coffee shop, which made Blaine laugh out loud. But what got him the most were the three photos below it. One showed Blaine and Kurt sitting side by side on the piano bench in the old attic, Blaine's hand settled softly over Kurt's as they grinned at one another. It was dark, and the photo was obviously not as clear as it would have been if Jeff had used his flash, but it was perfect to Blaine. The next photo was one of the snapshots Rachel had taken the following morning of the two men curled up together on Blaine's sofa. The third photo was of the two of them in the coffee shop, both holding up engagement rings with glorious, blinding smiles as they asked one another for forever. Beneath that was a blank opening, obviously for a wedding photo.

"No matter what anyone else buys, sends, gifts us…this is my favorite. I know it'll be Kurt's favorite as well, and I can NOT believe you've had this photo all along and didn't tell me…but I'm insanely grateful that you took it, and that I have that moment, frozen in time, to look fondly upon forever. Thank you, Jeffie," Blaine barely got out before his eyes leaked a stray tear down his cheek. Dropping the frame, he tugged Jeff into his arms and squeezed, just holding on for dear life. "I love you…and thank you for this," he said softly. "I love it, and I know Kurt will as well."

"I love you back, man, and I'm glad you like it," Jeff answered him, squeezing back.

"What IS IT with you two? Every damn time there's a wedding I find you in bed together!" Nick bellowed from the doorway, watching them both jump apart, then burst out laughing. Nick rolled his eyes at them, shrugged out of his jacket and flopped down on the bed. "Those bozos wanna know what's for breakfast. You guys hungry?" he asked, grinning at the two men in the room with him.

"FOOD!" Trent grumbled, David and Thad following him into the room as they all piled onto the bed. "My God, my head…nobody move…please…have mercy!"

"I TOLD YOU to take some aspirin before bed. I brought you a bottle of water and you didn't drink it. I don't wanna hear your whining," Thad told him.

"Some husband you are!" Trent moaned, hand reaching for the half bottle of water on the nightstand. "I don't care who that belongs to, give it to me please…"

"Big baby…here!" Jeff said, tossing him the water as well as the bottle of aspirin.

"Proceed…decide on food. I need greasy and gross to get over this!" Trent whined again. Thad rolled his eyes and laughed at him, as did the rest of them.

"Get dressed, then. We're heading out for a greasy breakfast, boys! We have a lot to do today, so chop chop!" Blaine commanded, a wide grin on his face as he surveyed the room filled with his best friends.

---

"Kurt, you're wearing a hole in the floorboards, calm down!" Santana razzed him. "I swear, Porcelain, you need a valium or something. I knew you'd be a mess, but this is beyond anything I conjured up in my head," she teased him.

"I just have to make sure I have everything," Kurt said, more than a little excitement in his voice. "I have lists…so many lists…and I have to go over each and every one of them to be absolutely certain that I have everything. We're going right from the reception to the hotel and—"

"Aaaannnnddd that's where I check out of this conversation. I don't even want to know what's on THAT list of must-haves!" Mercedes teased, eyebrows raised as she winked at him. Kurt turned bright red.

"Cedes!" he gasped. "Oh my God, stop!"

"Oh, please, Kurtie…we all know you'll be doing the deed until the sun comes up…" Santana teased.

"…while other things will surely be coming up as well—"

"QUINN! You too? I thought at least one of you would be on my side!"

"I'm on your side, Kurt. I want you to have all the sex," she grinned, tormenting Kurt even further. "You deserve it. We all want you to be happy, and it's so plain to see that you're over the moon for Blaine. We like him a lot, honey, and we're glad you found each other."

"He is pretty great, isn't he?" Kurt asked, calmer now as he settled down a little, sighing long and loud.

"Sickening, but…seriously, Kurt. He's great and so are you and that's all I'm going to say about it because…ugh…gross. Let's get this shindig on the road, shall we?" Santana snarked, but winked at him as she did so.

"We shall!" Kurt perked up again. "If we all grab two bags—"

"Your bags or ours?" Mercedes asked, looking around at the piles in the apartment. Even though the girls would be staying the night at Kurt and Blaine's apartment with Carol and Burt, they still needed to take all of their makeup and hair essentials, their dresses, shoes, as well as all of their wedding "stuff", of course. Kurt just hoped there'd be plenty of space for everything at the Harris' estate. Judging from the size of that house, they wouldn't have any issues.

"Oh…well…um…maybe if we make two trips down to the street?" Kurt asked, uncertain, hiding a grin. He had a minute to think he may have gone slightly overboard. At that moment his phone chirped and signaled a text message. "Ooh! Our driver is here! Ok, ok, it's time! Oh my God…OH MY GOD, IT'S TIME!" he began, then his eyes flew wide. "I'm getting married today. Oh shit…" he said, breath hitching and quickening as he looked around at everything that needed to go with them. "It's happening…and there's so much to take…" he said, voice thin and uncertain as his hands trembled slightly. It was clear that he'd lost much of the color in his face and his breathing was shallow and quick.

"I have everything, right? Oh, God, what if I forget something important and…and…" he began, only to be cut off.

"Kurt? KURT! Breathe!" Quinn said softly, laying hands on his shoulders. "Breathe in, out, in, out…" she said, breathing with Kurt to calm him. "We all went over the lists, we checked them twice like good little wedding elves," she chuckled. "It's all here, and I'd venture to say if there's anything you don't have, Eileen will have it, ok?"

He nodded yes and took another deep breath. "Ok…I'm good. I am…I'm good…Ok, let's do this, ladies!"

"Wait…where's Barbra?" Santana asked, one eyebrow raised. "Why the hell does she get out of carrying all this crap down the stairs?"

"Here! I'm here! I was getting my snuggles on with little Soph downstairs! Oh my gosh, she's so so so cute!" Rachel squealed. "Ok, what are we doing?"

"LEAVING!" they all chimed in, grabbing bags. "Kurt's getting married today!" Mercedes squealed and they all screamed and laughed, hugging and carrying on like hyenas.

"JESUS, Princess, what the hell!?" Sebastian called from the bottom of the stairs. They all looked chagrined for all of three seconds, then broke into laughter again.

"Sorry, Seb…sorry…sor….yeah, no, not sorry!" Kurt said, then burst out laughing again. "I'm getting married!"

"That you are, my friend, and I'm happy as a pig in shit for you guys."

"Only you, Seb," Kurt retorted, rolling his eyes.

"We're heading down, Kurt! Don't be too long," Quinn told him, as they grabbed the mountain of bags and headed down the stairs.

"Hunter working?" Kurt asked, waiting until he heard them on the lower landing.

"Yes, half a shift…I'm picking him up in an hour, bringing him home, then we'll shower, change and see you there. Can I do anything for you?"

"Yes…you can," Kurt said, then walked over to Seb and threw his arms around him, squeezing tightly. "You can accept my deepest gratitude for everything you did to make this happen today."

"Oh, my Lord, you're crazy," Sebastian chuckled, trying to playfully shove Kurt away.

"Nope…not letting go until you accept my thanks, because I sincerely mean it, Sebastian. I am so unbelievably grateful to you and Hunter for everything…I really am, and so is Blaine. Please?"

With a deep, put-upon smile and a roll of his eyes, Sebastian squeezed back, letting his eyes fall closed as he did so. "You're very welcome, Kurt. I wouldn't have bothered for just anyone, ya know?" he teased.

"I know…I do. Which is why it's so important that I tell you how much it means to me…all of it...all of the crap with Jackson, taking me to the shooting range, harassing me about Blaine," he laughed. "Really, Seb…this is the latest in a long line of 'little things' you've done for me…for us…and I'm sincerely grateful for you in our lives. Thank you."

"You're welcome…but maybe we can just call it even for now, whadda ya say?"

"If you want," Kurt shrugged.

"I want. Now get yourself and this stuff downstairs. Someone has a wedding venue to get to!"

"You and Hunter...find me when you guys get there, ok? Find me!" Kurt said, trotting off down the stairs with bags on his shoulders and in his hands.

If Sebastian's eyes were a little glassy, Kurt opted not to mention it.

---

"Are you nervous?" Mercedes asked, her wide grin so infectious that Kurt's nerves settled just barely enough to nod. They'd chatted animatedly, throughout the nearly hour-long ride to the Harris estate. Kurt was grateful that the driver put the glass up between them. He'd be mortified if the man had heard half of what those girls in the car with him considered "polite conversation". With a grin, he bit his bottom lip and took a deep breath as they pulled through the gates of the Harris estate in the back of a stretch limo sent, of course, by Nick and Jeff.

"I'm not nervous about marrying Blaine, I just want everything to be perfect and I don't want anything to go wrong, ya know? I want the sun to stay shining, I want all of our family and friends there, I want the ballroom to look stunning…I want to see Blaine. He's going to look so handsome…" Kurt trailed off, his voice soft and dreamy.

"Sickening…" Santana snickered and rolled her eyes.

"Well, you can't see Blaine until the wedding, right? You guys agreed?" Quinn asked.

"We did…I did…I asked him if that was ok. You know me, I'm kind of old fashioned about things and I don't want to bring any bad luck upon us if it can be avoided. But I miss him," Kurt pouted.

"Looks like it's time to get this show on the road, Kurtie! And the sooner we get in there, the sooner you'll see Blaine!" Mercedes said excitedly, grabbing Kurt's hand and nearly dragging him out of the car as soon as the door was pulled open.

They hurried up the stairs of the estate followed by a group of what could only be described as liveried footmen. Kurt gaped as he watched no fewer than six uniformed young men grabbing all of the bags and belongings from the trunk before marching up the stairs and into the house.

Eileen and Richard met them at the doors and Kurt was instantly grabbed up in a hug by the woman of the house.

"Oh, Kurt…I can't even begin to thank you for this gift. I have absolutely had so much fun these past few days and it's been such an eye-opener. I chewed Richard's ear off last night until the wee hours. I'm certain he was ready to choke me –"

"Not quite, but close," Richard winked and grinned.

"…and I think…I think I'm going to try my hand at event planning!" Eileen told him, obviously so very excited. "We'll see. I'm riding on such a high right now, I think I should probably wait until after today's events to see how things go, but I've truly enjoyed this so very much. Thank you for giving me this, Kurt!"

"Oh my goodness, Eileen! I think that's a fantastic idea! I was completely floored and dumbfounded at what you and your team had accomplished in such a short time. I'm sure it's stunning," Kurt gushed.

"Oh, come see!" she gasped, grabbing his hand and tugging him toward the doors.

"Mrs. Harris, the other gentlemen have arrived," one of the young men called from the front of the house near the door.

"Oh, I need to…Blaine and I aren't going to see one another before the ceremony!" Kurt told her, eyes wide. "Where—" he began, but Eileen had already grabbed his arm and swung him around toward the center stairs that ascended to the second floor.

"Up you go, all the way to the end of the hall on the left. Blaine's suite of rooms is at the end of the hallway on the right. Don't mix it up and we'll all be just fine," she grinned. "I'll have refreshments brought up in a few moments, Kurt. The ballroom will have to be a surprise," she said, so excited it was clear she was nearly jumping out of her skin. Her eyes wide, she patted his cheek and swept away toward the front door as Kurt jogged up the stairs.

The girls had made themselves at home already. Bags and satchels looked to have been upended and dumped over beds, dressing tables and chairs. Various "instruments of torture" were visible, tumbling out of make-up bags and carry-alls, including eyelash curlers, flat irons and curling irons as well. By the grace of a higher power, Rachel was able to convince one of the make-up artists from the theater to help with hair and such for the afternoon. She worked a few evenings during the week at the theater, but as a licensed cosmetologist by day. She would be arriving soon to help the girls with whatever they needed, as well as Carol and Cris…which reminded him that he'd only received one text from his father that day.

While the girls scrambled around hanging up their dresses and fishing shoeboxes out of their bags, Kurt stepped into the en suite bathroom and nudged the door closed.

"Hey Dad…" he said when the call connected.

"Kurt…everything ok?" Burt asked, but Kurt heard the grin in his voice.

"So much, yes. I'm so much more than ok. Are you here? Almost here? On your way?"

"We're about 15 minutes out. Cris and Carol had their dresses pressed this morning and we were waiting on them to be delivered to the room. The concierge at the hotel is top-notch. I was tempted to ask him for something he couldn't possibly find in the city just to see if he'd try to find it," Burt teased.

"Dad…no harassing the staff," Kurt grinned back, eyes falling closed and he pictured the teasing grin on his father's face.

"You okay, kid?" But asked, a bit softer now.

"Yeah...I'm...I'm good. Yeah. Find me when you get here?"

"You can count on it."

"I'll see you soon."

"Love you, Kurt."

"Love you, too, Dad."

---

"He's gonna love it, B," Cooper told Blaine, eyeing the rings Blaine had in his palm. "I never would have even thought of doing this...cutting the ring in half."

"It seemed only right. It was huge, ya know? Grampa was a big guy. Kurt and I…not so much," Blaine grinned. "I took the ring to the jeweler where I bought Kurt's engagement ring and asked him what he thought. It was actually his suggestion to cut the bottom like this. He said he'd been in the shop the first morning I visited, when I was looking for just the perfect engagement ring for Kurt…"

"It's pretty perfect, I must say, little bro. An apt metaphor, for certain."

"You think?" Blaine said, his heart in his eyes.

"So much. You complete each other in so many ways, Blaine. Slicing it down the middle to make two rings was a great idea. The shapes in the bottom? Genius," Cooper said, dragging Blaine in for a hug. "He'll love it."

"Thank you, Coop," Blaine said, holding his brother tightly.

"Don't thank me, thank the ring guy!" Cooper joked.

"No…not the ring. Thank YOU…for everything. For always trying to protect me from everything at home, for taking the brunt of it for so many years when I was too young to even know what was happening. Thank you for protecting mom, even though you should have never had to go through any of that. Thank you for always listening to me when—"

"Squirt…stop…"

"No…it needs to be said," Blaine told him, stepping back to look into Cooper's eyes. "Thank you for always listening to me, for not freaking out when I told you I was gay. Thank you for always letting me visit when things got too bad at home. Thank you for the plane tickets, the spending cash, the couch to crash on when I needed it. Thank you for letting me stay with you when I moved here, and for picking out that particular ad for the apartment. If not for you pushing me to look at that building, I would have never seen Kurt again and…I can't even fathom that. I can't think about life without him, Coop."

"Oh my God, man, STOP!" Cooper growled, holding Blaine so tightly now that he could barely breathe. Blaine heard him breathing heavily and felt his chest hitch several times. He knew his brother would be affected by his outpouring of gratitude and he didn't care. It all needed to be said and today was the day to say it. "It's always been you and me against the world, Squirt. It always will be. But now…now we have a few more good souls on our side," he said, clearly choked up. "You and me against the world, man…"

"Yeah…" was all Blaine could manage to get out. He held on a few minutes longer, glancing out the hall window over the yard where people scurried here and there, tending to last minute things. He saw Suzanne, their photographer, making her way across the finely manicured lawn toward the heaping pile of photo equipment. They had agreed to have some of the photos taken before the ceremony to lessen the number of photos afterward, thus keeping the evening on schedule as much as possible. Suzanne turned to say something to someone behind her and…there he was. There was his Kurt, making his way behind her in his tux, dressed to the nines as only Kurt Hummel could, the girls in their dresses behind him, chattering away. "Oh my God, look at him…"

"You're not supposed to see each other!" Cooper hissed, grabbing Blaine's arm to tug him into the suite of rooms they'd been given.

"It's an old wives tale, Coop. What he doesn't know won't hurt him," Blaine laughed, tugging out of Cooper's hold to return to the window. "My God, he is so stunning. Just look at that man…and he's all mine."

"That he is, B. He's a good man, and I'm just so grateful that you two found each other. C'mon. You've got to finish getting dressed and we're running short on time. Let's go make sure those morons haven't broken anything and get them all in shape!"

With a deep sigh and his heart full of so much love, Blaine turned to go back into the bedroom with the rest of the group.

---

"Is my dad here yet? Has anyone seen Carol or Cris? I think Suzanne wants them downstairs for photos after she finishes with Blaine. Have you seen Blaine? How does he look?" Kurt babbled, obviously flustered.

"He looks smokin', Princess, don't worry," came the snarky reply from the doorway.

"Sebastian, stop harassing Kurt," came the mellow voice behind him a split second later.

"What? He does. Blaine's always smokin'," Seb continued, "but I think maybe he's met his match with this one. Lookin' good, Hummel. Is that an original?"

"Of course it is!" Kurt retorted, his grin escaping the confines of his attempted bitch face. "You guys made it!"

"As if we'd miss this for anything in the world," Hunter replied, stepping into Kurt's embrace. "We've all been waiting…some of us more patiently than others…" he said, throwing Sebastian a glance over his shoulder with a wicked grin.

"Patience is not my greatest attribute," Seb threw back.

"No!? GASP!" Kurt chuckled, rolling his eyes.

"Ran into your dad on the way up here. Still not sure how such a nice guy can look so damn intimidating, even in a suit. And your stepmom is smokin'. That gown is fantastic, Kurt. Your design as well?"

"Oh, Seb…you're still smarting over his epic dismissal in the hallway, Sir Screws-a-lot," Kurt teased. "And no, I was not given the honor of making the mothers' dresses. I ran out of time, despite designing the most fantastic gowns just for them…much to my chagrin. I haven't even seen their dresses yet, what with all that's gone on since they arrived. It's been barely controlled chaos, as I'm sure you're aware."

"Well, you're about to be bombarded, so I think we'll take our leave," Hunter told him, hugging Kurt once more before moving toward the door. "You ok? You need anything? A drink? A valium?"

"A pre-wedding screw in the back stairway?" Sebastian teased, a wicked gleam in his eye.

"Oh my God, someone take him downstairs…" Kurt sighed, shaking his head and rolling his eyes. Santana let out an unladylike snort and continued primping at the mirror.

"Sebastian!?" Hunter gasped, eyes bright with mirth. "Are you volunteering your services?"

"Oh for God's sake, no. I was going to go grab Blaine! What is wrong with you people? I'm out."

With that, Sebastian turned and left, throwing a wink over his shoulder as he did so.

"You sure you don't need anything, Kurt?" Hunter asked, his hand on Kurt's shoulder.

"I'm good…nervous and a little anxious, but I'm really good. The girls have made it their mission to keep me in my place today."

"Ok, then I'm gonna head downstairs and check on Naomi. She came in with us...she's having a rough morning. The baby is keeping her on her toes today. Gotta keep an eye on things," Hunter told Kurt, then turned to go with a wink.

"Hunter," Kurt said, then stepped closer to the door. "I told Sebastian this morning, and I'll tell you as well. Thank you for everything…not just for this…this place. Thank you for all of it, for just being you, for listening, for sharing, for…all of it. I'm forever grateful." Kurt tugged Hunter into another embrace and felt Hunter's arms pull tightly around him.

"If anyone deserves every happiness, Kurt, it's you…and Blaine. And if I did anything to make that a reality, then it was a good thing. If you'll recall, you did me a solid a time or two as well, though," Hunter teased.

"Maybe, but I have no regrets. I wish you every happiness as well."

"I am…so close, Kurt. I'm so close to having every single thing I've ever wanted out of life, and you are a huge part of all that. In time, you'll see. I'm almost 'there', Kurt, and it's been an awesome ride. Thank YOU, my friend, for everything. Now go marry that man and wow everyone in attendance with your fine self. Love you," Hunter told him, his eyes glassy. Kurt nodded and stepped back, his own eyes a little wet as he watched Hunter walk out the door.

---

"Did you get the ring?" Kurt asked, eyeing Finn warily. Finn's eyes shot open wide, giving Kurt a 'what the hell?' look from across the room. "Finn, please tell me Blaine has our rings?"

"Oh…yeah, he…I…yeah, I got yours from him. Pretty cool, man. I think you'll like it," Finn grinned sheepishly. "But I'm not allowed to show you anything yet. You know…it's a secret and all that."

"So I'm told, despite the fact that he was GOING to show them to me before the wedding…" Kurt griped good-naturedly. "WHERE is my dad? Has anyone seen him? I feel like he's been here for hours and he's avoiding me!"

"Honey, he's been here for like ten minutes and you're getting nutty. Sit…have a drink…calm your nerves a little," Mercedes told him, guiding him to sit in the corner in a beautifully upholstered chair.

"I can't drink before my wedding! I'll stumble down the aisle and fall into someone's lap!" Kurt argued.

"You can have a drink without getting drunk off your ass, Hummel," Santana retorted, handing him a glass filled with amber liquid. "Just sip," she instructed. "You're on the verge of hysteria and there's no reason to be. Our pictures have been taken, the boys are out there having theirs taken, after the ceremony Suzanne will do everyone together, I'll give you bunny ears in every one, you and Blaine will—"

"Santana! Don't you dare!" Kurt gasped, a grin sneaking out as he sipped at his – "What is this anyway?" he asked, eyeing the snifter in his hand. "It's not bad."

"Brandy. Eileen brought it up while we were outside and left it on the vanity. She thought you might need it," Quinn grinned. "Actually, I think she thought Rachel might need it," she whispered, winking at Kurt and the other girls.

Rachel stood at the window looking out over the grounds. Blaine and his dapper gentlemen were out there having their photos taken and she had a soft grin on her face as she watched.

"Rach?" Kurt said quietly as he walked up behind her. She turned and gave him a wide grin, her eyes a little misty. "I love him for being everything I've ever wanted for you, Kurt. I couldn't have hand-picked a better man for you, and I'm so very happy that you found each other."

"Awww, Rach…" Kurt said, then grabbed her up in a big hug, both holding on a little longer than normal.

"Really, Kurt. I know what happened back in Ohio was awful, and when you said you wanted to come to New York I was skeptical but, please know that I wanted you here. I knew you could be your best self here. I just never knew that the man who would be forever by your side, pushing you to be that best self, would show up as well, and as soon as he did. I can't tell you how happy that makes me, and I wish you and Blaine every single good thing, ok?"

"You're going to make me cry."

"Yes, well, if it's a good cry, it's ok," she laughed.

"He's amazing, isn't he?" Kurt asked, looking out over her shoulder as they watched Blaine, Cooper and Jeff goofing around on the finely manicured lawn as Suzanne shook her head at their antics.

"He is. He's perfect for you…and you for him, honey."

"Ok, Ok, let's get this show on the road, you two! Sobfest is over, and may I introduce to you, Mr. Kurt Hummel, the mothers of the grooms," Santana said with a flourish, whipping open the bedroom door.

Carol and Cris burst inside in a whoosh of fabric and perfume, leaving Kurt to stare, mouth agape, at their dresses and their wide smiles.

"OH MY GOD, HOW…?!" he gasped, hands over his mouth and eyes wide. "But I…and you…I wasn't…" he stuttered out, seeing the dresses he'd designed for the two women in living color. "HOW!?" he asked again, giddy with excitement.

"I may have had a spare moment or two to help out my work bestie," came from the door behind them as Naomi peeked around the corner. "And Maggie was definitely a huge help on this one, Kurt."

"Well, do you like them?" Carol finally asked as Kurt stared, shaking his head.

"How could I not like them? You both look stunning. Oh my word, I can't even…" he said, circling them as he took in every detail. "STUNNING…just wow…Naomi!" Kurt chirped, hauling her into the room for a hug. "Ha, I can't even get close to you anymore with your belly," he laughed, as she did as well.

"This baby's not little anymore, and neither am I! We've had a crazy morning already, too," she said, rolling her eyes.

"Crazy as in…contractions?" Kurt asked hopefully.

"Braxton-Hicks, I'm sure of it. I think so, anyway. I should have three more weeks, according to my due date, but this little one's been kinda quiet, so…we'll see, won't we? Tell me, though, Kurt…are they-"

"YES, holy moly, woman, you've outdone yourself! Look at these beautiful ladies," he blurted, so excited to see his designs made to his exact specifications. "You brought my designs to life…" he breathed out softly, amazed at how stunning Cris and Carol looked in their gowns. "I barely had time to make dresses for the girls, and I was so distraught when I thought I couldn't fit the mothers' dresses in...but you did it. Oh, they're amazing…"

"Well, it wasn't easy. Naomi and Maggie really did bust their butts to get them finished on time," Cris told him. "But the end result, as we knew it would be, is spectacular, if I do say so myself!" she said, winking at Kurt.

"I can't believe you did this for me…for them…thank you, sweetheart," Kurt said, leaning into Naomi's side again as he squeezed her closely. "Oh, pictures! I must have pictures for my portfolio!"

Naomi shuffled out of the photo and Kurt tutted at her, edging her back in. "The seamstresses and best assistant designers get to have some kudos as well. Where IS Maggie, anyway?"

"Um...Mattie's having a little meltdown. It seems he's not thrilled with his 'costume' but Maggie's on it...I think. I hope," Cris answered. "I'll go check on them in a minute."

Kurt grabbed his phone and arranged everyone the way he wanted them, snapping photos like a madman. The girls all crowded in, Naomi included, and he took a dozen more.

"All of my favorite women in the same place. I love you all, don't ever doubt it," he said, getting a little choked up.

"Awwww, Kurtie…" Mercedes said, then broke ranks to squeeze him tightly, joined shortly by the rest of the group.

When they'd finally all had their hugs and squeezes, Kurt looked around and toward the door. "Where's my dad? If you're here, then he's here somewhere, right?" he asked Carol.

"He's here, of course, he is. I think he went to find Blaine, though," she told him, giving him the raised eyebrow, then a grin and a soft, motherly smile and a wink.

---

Blaine turned at the knock on their door, giving Burt a wide grin. "Come on in, Burt!" he said, moving toward the door to greet his soon to be father-in-law.

"Just might," Burt returned, sauntering inside in his suit, hands in his pockets.

Cooper let out a low whistle and a "lookin' good, Burt!" as he grabbed Jeff's arm and tugged him toward the door, nodding his head toward the others so they'd follow as well. "We'll be back in a minute," he said, winking at Burt as they left the room and pulled the door closed. Blaine looked around, unsure of what was going on, but he was too excited to give it too much thought.

"How are you holding up?" Burt asked, his smile soft and understanding. "I know Kurt can be a handful with stuff like this...wants everything just right and all that. When I heard about the fire I was sure he'd have a complete meltdown."

"Oh, he did…he did. But we have pretty fantastic friends who stepped in to make it right, and truth be told, I think this is more what Kurt had in mind anyway. This place is absolutely beautiful…stunning…and he wanted somewhere more private, where nobody else had been for their wedding. It's worked out for the best, I think. As long as he's happy, I'm happy," Blaine replied, watching Burt carefully.

"Blaine, you need to have your own happiness, too. Don't forget that. Don't get wrapped up in making Kurt happy so much that you forget your own happiness. But…you'll do fine, both of you. I just wanted to stop by and make sure you were doing ok, kid. And I wanted to say some things…" Burt trailed off, absently looking around the room as he collected his own thoughts. "Hear me out, alright?" Burt grinned.

"Ok…" Blaine said, slightly hesitant. Surely Burt wasn't going to give him the "hurt my son and I'll hunt you down" speech on his wedding day?

"Blaine, when Kurt first told me he'd met someone up here in New York, I was a little…uncertain…about all of it. You know, as well as I do, that things weren't great for Kurt in Ohio. He's always been one of a kind, and that's a good thing…the best thing…about Kurt, but…" Burt began, but stalled, weighing his words. "He persevered. He went through hell with that monster and he made it. He made it through hell and he decided he needed a change and, to be honest, I was scared out of my mind for him to move up here. It's a big place, a scary place sometimes, and I was so afraid for him…afraid he came looking for big things and he'd be disappointed. I was so scared for my little boy, Blaine, after all he'd been through," Burt continued, sounding almost sad. "But he called me one afternoon and said he'd met a designer guy," Burt chuckled. "He was so unsure, but excited, I could tell, and that eased some of my concern…but not all of it. It wasn't until Carol and I visited," he laughed, seeing Blaine's face go a little pale.

Blaine tensed at the memory of himself outside of Kurt's apartment door, Kurt on his knees and Burt ready to snap Blaine's neck, if he recalled correctly. That whole weekend was…crazy.

"Don't get all uptight on me, kid. It all worked out. Kurt was different when we got here. He was…he was starting to act like himself again and, in a way, better than before. He had a new confidence about him, despite all the setbacks and rebuffs he'd gone through, and Carol and I talked all the way home about it, and came to the conclusion that it was partly the job…and mostly…you."

"Me?" Blaine breathed out, his chest visibly deflating. He hadn't realized he'd been holding his breath through most of Burt's speech.

"You. Kurt was different because of you, Blaine. And it was then that I knew and, if we're being honest here, I'd hoped that you'd stick around. I hoped you two would see what Carol and I saw that first weekend we spent here. Every phone call after that, with the exception of the "weekend-that-shall-not-be-named" after the confusion in Sebastian's apartment-" Burt said, rolling his eyes.

"Oh God…" Blaine blurted out, eyes falling closed.

"- yeah, well, every other conversation was full of 'Blaine this and Blaine that' and I knew…I could tell, he was in love with you from early on. I just hoped you were just as in love with him, and I saw, pretty quickly, that you were. What I'm saying, Blaine, is that I want you to know that Carol and I are very happy that Kurt has you in his life. But as much, or maybe even more…we're just as happy to have you in our lives, son. And you are our son, have been for some time now, and I hope that's no surprise. You're ours now, Blaine. You need to know that, and if there's anything you need…anything you ever need, I hope you know that you can come to us for that, for anything, just as much as Kurt or Finn would, anytime, ok? Even if it's Kurt who's the problem because I'm well aware that his exacting standards are often hard to navigate," Burt chuckled. "You can talk to me, or to Carol, anytime, about anything. You're family now, Blaine, and we take care of our own, kiddo."

Blaine stood stock still, his chest tight and his lungs feeling like they'd explode any minute, the emotion welling up inside him just too much to hold in. He felt the tears roll down his cheeks as he surged forward and fell into Burt's waiting arms, holding him tightly as he sobbed on the man's shoulders.

"Thank you," Blaine managed to squeak out, but just barely. "Thank you for your acceptance, even though you probably have every reason and right to want Kurt to stay away from relationships for a while. Thank you for sharing your family with me, your home, and most importantly...Kurt. I never want to disappoint him, or you, and I will do everything in my power to make him happy, and to keep him happy, Burt, I promise. Just...thank you...for everything," Blaine said somberly, eyes wet with more unshed tears.

"Thank you, Blaine...for loving Kurt, for showing him that life is worth living, for being a hell of a son-in-law well before any vows may have made you think you 'had to', and for introducing Kurt, and us, to a fine group of people we're happy to call our own now. Welcome to the family, kid. We love ya," Burt finished, squeezing Blaine for all he was worth. Blaine could only hang on and nod, his face pressed against Burt's shoulder as his body shook with emotion.

"And Blaine, one last thing?"

"Anything, Burt," he said, still holding on.

"You've gotta loosen up a little around me, kid. I promise I'm not going to bite your head off or chew you out. We have secret cheeseburger rendezvous between us, Blaine. We're a team now. Can we work on that?" Burt chuckled.

"I'll try, Burt...can't promise you anything, but...I'll try," Blaine grinned, holding on a little tighter as he shook with restrained laughter.

---

"Mattie...buddy, tell me what's wrong?" Kurt asked, sitting on the edge of an ottoman as the young boy sobbed into a pillow on the adjacent bed.

"This isn't my costume! They won't get me the right one and this isn't mine!" he cried, his little voice strained and hoarse.

"You don't like your suit?" Kurt asked, confused. He was the only little boy in the wedding, therefore he had the only "little" suit. Of course, this one was his.

"You and Uncle Blaine said I would be the ring bear and I'd have the best suit! This is wrong...it's all wrong…" he sobbed again, turning to look at Kurt with red eyes and a runny nose.

"I don't understand, buddy. You are the ring bearer...you're the only one. You're the only little dude in the wedding, so this one has to be your suit, doesn't it?" Kurt asked, willing himself to offer all his patience up on a platter.

"Does this even look like a bear suit to you?!" Mattie asked, eyes wide now as if Kurt was losing his mind. "There's no fur, there's no claws, nothing!" Mattie whined before dropping back down, face-first into the pillow.

"There's no...fur?" Kurt asked, utterly confused. "Oh my God...oh, buddy, no. You're the ring BEAR-ER...the one who brings the rings up to Uncle Blaine and me at the wedding. There aren't any...bears...at weddings...usually," Kurt said, casting a wary glance at Cooper and Maggie who stood in the doorway, both of them shaking with mirth now that they understood the problem. "Oh, laugh it up…" Kurt hissed at them, trying to calm Mattie by rubbing his back softly as the boy continued to hiccup and sniffle.

"But how can I be a ring bear without a bear suit?" he asked again, obviously choked up.

"Well...the ring bearer is the special guy who carries our rings. You have the pillow?" Kurt asked. Mattie flung it out from beneath his little body, kinda mangled and wrinkled, but workable. "Oh...kay…" Kurt said slowly, giving Maggie and Coop another look of helplessness. "I wish I'd known that you didn't want this suit, little man. I would have surely made you a bear suit if I'd known," Kurt tried again, anything to console the little boy.

"You could still," came from the pillow.

"I could, yes. But I don't have what I need with me today, buddy. I left all of my sewing stuff at home, and the wedding starts in-" Kurt paused and looked at his watch, eyes wide now, "fifteen minutes." His heart began to pick up its pace and Kurt felt a little flutter of excitement run through him. "If I promise to make you the coolest bear suit ever when I get home from my honeymoon with Blaine, will you come downstairs with me and carry the rings up the aisle for the wedding?" Kurt asked, his voice soft and cajoling as he attempted to talk the little boy down from his hysteria.

"You promise? It sucks that I can't wear it for all the wedding pictures, though."

"MATTHEW!" Maggie gasped from the door. "Language, little man!" she gritted out, eyes wide.

"Swear jar!" Cooper cackled gleefully, glad that it wasn't him, for once, who was being reprimanded.

"I guess I can," Mattie said, utterly dejected at the idea of wearing such a plain, boring suit for the wedding festivities. He sat up slowly and took the tissue that Kurt offered to him, wiping his eyes and his nose.

"You ready, buddy? We have a wedding to get to. Where's your sister, anyway?" Kurt asked.

"She's with the girls. She said I was going to get snot on her dress and she ran down the hall," Mattie said, rolling his eyes.

"Fair point," Kurt muttered, grabbing Mattie's hand. "You ready then? You can hang with me, or go with your dad and Uncle Blaine. Your choice."

"Will you be mad if I go with dad?" he asked softly, looking up at Kurt from under his bangs.

"Of course not! Whatever you want, bud. I'll see you downstairs in the hallway, ok?" Kurt asked, his hand on Mattie's shoulder. He heard Mattie call after him as he reached the door.

"Uncle Kurt!" he said, running over as Kurt knelt down to his level.

"Yeah?" Kurt replied with a patient grin.

"Um...thanks...for making me the suit later. I might wear it to school, too, one day. Maybe. Also, can I borrow a quarter for the swear jar?"

It was everything Kurt could do not to burst out laughing, but he thought Mattie might think he was laughing AT him and not WITH him, so he refrained.

"You are most welcome, my friend. Anything for you. And I don't have any quarters on me, but you know who probably does? My dad. He'll have a quarter, I guarantee it!" Kurt winked at him and waved as he exited the room. "Which reminds me…"

---

"Are you avoiding me?" Kurt asked, sauntering into the room next to the one where the girls were all waiting.

"Absolutely not," Burt grinned as he turned and took in his son in all his glory. "Just had some things to take care of before the wedding is all," Burt told him.

"Ahhh, ok," Kurt said, crossing the room, hands in his pockets as he looked his dad in the eye for the first time that day. "So, you're not even remotely emotional and you're not hiding from me, then?" Kurt teased, a sly grin trying to make its way to his lips.

"Nope," Burt answered way too quickly, wiping at one of his eyes with a grin on his own face. "Nothing like that at all," he said, then tugged Kurt in for a hug.

"Ok, if you're sure."

"Brat."

Kurt laughed, holding on to his dad and inhaling his aftershave. He suddenly felt like a little boy again and let his eyes fall closed for a moment. He missed this, with being so far from Burt every day. He missed his dad's hugs, the closeness they shared for so many years, especially when it was just the two of them for so long. But missing it didn't mean it wasn't present, just that it wasn't within his grasp at all times...physically. Kurt knew, and counted on the fact, that he could pick up the phone and call Burt at any moment and get a virtual hug from the man who meant so much to him.

"You nervous, kid?"

"Maybe just a little. I feel like that's normal for a day like today. Big things happening and all that," Kurt huffed out a short laugh. Burt squeezed him tighter.

"I feel like I should have a whole speech laid out for you, Kurt, but I don't. Well, I did, but it seems insignificant now. I don't need to tell you to love him with all your heart, even when and if you're angry. I don't need to tell you to keep your lines of communication open at all times. I don't need to tell you not to assume too many things, or to make sure you're compromising when necessary. You know these things already...and I'm sure Blaine does as well. You sure picked a good one, buddy," Burt said, hearing Kurt sniffle on his shoulder.

"I did. Mom may have gotten the best from her generation, but I certainly got the best of mine," Kurt grinned, then stepped away from his father. "Have you seen him?"

"I have. Made sure he was doing ok, and he is. He is…" Burt paused, shaking his head with a wide smile. "He's a pretty great guy, Kurt. You did well with that one, and I'm so very proud of both of you. I want you to know that. I'm proud of you every day for overcoming your hardships, for never letting it knock you so far down you couldn't get back up, and for looking adversity in the face and smiling as you kicked its ass. I am so proud to say that you are my son, Kurt."

"Dad…" Kurt laughed, eyes watery as he looked into his own father's misty eyes.

"I'm serious, Kurt. You've been through a lot...more than any one man deserves at such a young age, and you've come out on top. You have a fantastic career, a great home, wonderful friends, a supportive family...and now you have the very best companion a dad could have asked for his son. I am so very proud of you both, and I love you, Son. Carol loves you, and she adores Blaine, of course. And this day...it's just the culmination of so many good things. I'm happy as hell to be standing here with you."

"I am so lucky," Kurt said softly, letting his eyes fall closed again. "I saw him and walked away, and I was given another chance because it was meant to be. We were meant to be, and here we are," he smiled.

"Kurt?" they heard from the door as Carol stuck her head in. "It's time, sweetheart," she said, so much love on her face that Kurt's heart nearly thumped out of his chest.

"Shall we, then?" Kurt asked, reaching for his dad's hand.

"Lead the way, kid," Burt replied, grabbing Kurt's hand as they walked toward the door.

"Dad...wait," Kurt said, a line furrowing his brow as he paused near the door. "There's something that I need to change about the ceremony. It's not right, and I don't want to do it without Blaine's permission, but I'm sure he'll agree. Would you...would you go ask him for me?"

"More changes? This shindig started out with you and Blaine, Finn, Rachel, Cooper and Jeff," Burt laughed.

"So many people had a hand in supporting us and bringing Blaine and me to where we are today. It only felt right to include those people who are so very important to us, so we asked the rest of our close friends to be a part of our day. We only plan to do this once, dad, so we better do it right. And to make it right...really right…I need your help. Please?"

"Sure, kid. What should I ask him?"

---

Kurt stood out of view behind a set of leaded glass doors with Eileen, his mouth agape and his eyes wide.

"You have absolutely outdone yourself, Eileen. This is so much more than I could have ever imagined," Kurt breathed out, beyond thrilled with the way the ballroom looked.

"I had help, don't forget. My team and your team, well, we made a pretty good...team," she giggled. "I won't pretend it was any hardship, though. This is the most fun I've had in years, and I thank you for giving me this, Kurt. I sincerely hope the two of you look back on this day and can't think of a single thing that could have been better."

"I wouldn't change a thing," Kurt told her, still stunned at the room before him. Guests were in their seats looking toward the front of the room where a simple, wooden, elegant arch had been arranged. Flowers, greenery, and tiny little fairy lights were woven through it, giving the whole thing an air of fantasy and whimsy. There were flowers everywhere...so many flowers and so much greenery, with soft light, soft music, and hushed whispers as everyone talked while they waited on the grooms to begin the ceremony. "It's absolutely gorgeous," Kurt said again. The glass sparkled as the sun hit every bevel and cast prisms along the floor and the walls. Pristine ivory slipcovered chairs were lined up like soldiers. Stunning place settings graced every tabletop near the back of the room, the guest's chairs to be moved to the tables after the ceremony. The cake stood on its own, a masterpiece near the doors where Kurt waited, and it looked absolutely fantastic with its soft, white buttercream calling his name. He couldn't wait to share it with Blaine.

He could see another set of doors on the other side of the room from where he stood in a long hallway, but he couldn't see Blaine or any of his groomsmen. He knew they were there waiting for their cue as well, though.

"You good?" Burt asked as the girls tittered around the hallway, Rachel holding Finn's arm with a big grin on her face just for him.

"I couldn't be better if I tried. Wait...scratch that. I'd be better if Blaine were here, holding my hand. Let's fix that, shall we?" he grinned.

"I think it's time," Eileen said softly.

The music began, and Kurt took a deep breath as Quinn, Mercedes and Santana moved toward the door, each of them kissing his cheek as they walked past him.

"See you up there, front and center, Princess," Santana winked as the doors were pulled open by two handsomely dressed men. Carol and Burt moved to the front of the line, then they both turned and gave him a big smile. And then they were off. Their procession may have been a bit out of the ordinary, but he and Blaine had discussed it, and that's how they decided they wanted things. Neither of them liked the thought of being 'given away', so they opted for this arrangement.

"But you've seen him? He's over there? He's here, right?" Blaine asked Cooper, a little panicky, if Coop was any judge.

"He's here, I've seen him and I've talked to him, yes. He's doing just fine, and you need to take a deep breath, B," Cooper chuckled.

"Don't harass your brother, Cooper!" Cris hissed at him, giving him 'the look' as she straightened Blaine's lapels. "You look so unbelievably handsome, my love. I'm so very happy for you and Kurt. He is a fine young man, and I'm proud to welcome him to our family. You picked well, Blaine," she smiled, kissing him on the cheek.

"I know, Mama, but I think Kurt and I both made out on this deal," Blaine winked at her. "Our families becoming one…" he began, but got a little choked up and couldn't finish the sentence. Cris tugged him to her side and pulled him down for a quick kiss.

"That's our cue!" she nearly squealed as the music changed and the doors were pulled open ahead of them.

"Knock 'em dead, Mom," Blaine laughed, then kissed her again for good measure. "You look absolutely stunning, by the way."

"Of course I do. I have designer friends in high places," she replied, regally, looking down her nose before winking back at him and turning toward the door. "Bill?"

Bill took Cris' arm and moved toward the doors with a pat to Blaine's shoulder. The music began, and it was time.

Kurt watched as Burt and Carol walked through the doors near the midway point of the ballroom and up through the middle of the numerous chairs they'd set up for guests. He saw Cris and Bill enter from the other side, both of them smiling in his direction as they slowly made their way inside. The couples met in the middle, Carol and Cris sharing a kiss on the cheek as they did so, then joined hands and continued up the aisle. Burt and Bill shook hands, then they slowly walked the long aisle behind the ladies and took their seats at the front of the room.

Next, Quinn, Mercedes, Santana, and Maggie took turns gliding down the aisle, meeting up halfway with Trent, Thad, David, and Nick. And because it was right, and necessary, Hunter turned to Kurt before giving him a spectacular grin, saying "I can't believe you did this, included Seb and me, but we're honored", then made his way down the aisle to meet up with his husband, who grabbed his hand immediately, gave Kurt a grin and a wink, and walked to the front of the room as well.

Finn fist-bumped Kurt, then sauntered off down the aisle, giving Rachel a sweet kiss at the door before doing so. He met up with Cooper, shoulder checked him, which made both of them laugh, then continued on to their spots at the front on the dais.

Rachel had his hand in a death grip, her smile so wide he was sure it would blind half the guests, but he didn't care.

"I love you more than Broadway, Kurt Hummel. Thank you for always being everything a girl could ask for in a best friend. I couldn't be happier for you and Blaine, and I wish you every single fantastic thing life has to offer." With that, she kissed his cheek and was gone, meeting Jeff halfway across the back of the room, and Kurt had to take half a dozen deep breaths to hold it together. He managed, just barely.

Eileen was at his side with a bottle of water, which he grabbed with a hasty "Oh my God, thank you!" before guzzling half of it down. "You're a life-saver," he said, handing the bottle back to her. "I don't remember having to walk that far up to the front of the room…" he said softly, heart pounding.

With a chuckle, Eileen squeezed his shoulder and reminded him, "the whole room is only 100 feet long. You don't have to walk all of it," with a snicker. Kurt felt his stomach lurch.

Eileen surveyed everything quickly, glancing inside to watch the girls make their way forward, handsome men on their arms and Hunter and Seb following closely behind them, then Finn, Cooper, Rachel, and Jeff bringing up the rear. She smiled softly, patting his hand, then gave Kurt a motherly side hug.

"Your turn, beautiful lady," she said softly to Evee, who looked suddenly terrified.

"Uncle Kurt…" she said, turning to him, eyes wide, her lip quivering, clearly trying not to get upset.

"Oh, sweetheart...what's wrong?" Kurt asked, bending down to her as she grabbed his hand and held on for dear life.

"There are more people than I thought," she said, her little voice shaky.

"I know, there are more people than I thought, too," he said, hoping that if he admitted that he was a little nervous as well that she might calm down a bit. "Do you think we can do this? I think it's our turn," Kurt asked. She gave him another glance, eyes watery and nodded. "Hmmm, maybe you could help me calm my nerves as well and we could tackle it together?"

"Together?" she asked, clearly still afraid. He saw Mattie exit the door at his side of the room and knew it was now or never.

"Together," he said again. "Lead the way, my lovely."

Evee let out a whoosh of breath, so relieved that she didn't have to walk down on her own now.

"Thank you, Eileen. Thank you for everything," Kurt said quickly.

"You're so very welcome, Kurt. Now...I think it's your turn, and there's a handsome young man waiting on you!" she said conspiratorially. With a pat on his shoulder, Kurt made his way down the aisle.

When he saw Blaine his breath caught and his steps stuttered. He had designed their suits, but David had done the final fittings, saying that it should be somewhat of a surprise for Kurt. And oh, that man...Blaine was absolutely stunning.

Blaine felt like a million bucks as he stepped into the ballroom and saw Kurt heading toward him, Evee holding his hand and leading the way. It wasn't how they'd planned their entrance, but the wink Kurt threw him said there was a story there somewhere. There, before him, was the man he would spend the rest of his days with if he was lucky. And apparently, he was, because they were here, about to be married before their family and friends, and who could ask for anything more?

A few steps before he reached Blaine, Kurt paused and leaned down toward Evee.

"You ok now?" he said softly. Her little face turned up toward him and she nodded, then looked toward her mom and dad in the front of the ballroom and headed their way after tugging him down and kissing Kurt's cheek. He nearly swooned. He stood up straight and tall, took a deep breath, and offered Blaine the biggest smile, then continued on his way.

As they reached the center aisle, Blaine couldn't take his eyes off Kurt, and Kurt felt much the same.

"Fancy meeting you here," Kurt whispered, eyes bright with mirth.

"Oh, I wouldn't have missed this for the world. I have the hottest date here," Blaine joked back, quietly. It didn't matter. A few of the guests heard their exchange and snickered with them. The others who weren't so lucky would just have to wonder at their banter. "Are you nervous?"

"Nervous? No. But my heart is beating out of my chest because I'm about to marry this amazing guy."

"He's very lucky, you know?"

"I'm the lucky one," Kurt whispered, beaming at his fiance.

Blaine grabbed his hand, raised it to his lips, and kissed his knuckles. "Shall we, Mr. Hummel?"

"Oh, by all means, Mr. Anderson," Kurt replied, then intertwined their fingers and continued up the aisle.

Together, hand in hand, they reached the front of the room and faced the officiant, Russell. He was the same man who had married Trent and Thad, and they both liked his laid back style and the ease with which he carried the ceremony forward. At that point, though, it could have been Mickey Mouse for all they cared. They only had eyes for one another.

"Family and friends, we are gathered here today to witness the union of these two gentlemen in marriage," Russell began. "Marriage is a union…" he went on, and Kurt knew he was speaking, but his focus was on the soft but strong hand holding his own, and his eyes were focused on Blaine...only Blaine.

"So, unless anyone here has any objections…" Kurt heard Russell say, and that snapped him right out of the stupor he'd been in, staring at his handsome fiance. He pinned Sebastian with a look that would kill as soon as the man shifted and moved his hand ever so slightly.

"I will tackle you to the floor, Sebastian Smythe, don't you dare," Kurt grumbled softly, causing the whole wedding party to guffaw, Hunter included, as Russell gave a wary glance around. Blaine couldn't hold it in and burst out laughing as well. Even Burt cracked up, hiding his big laugh behind his hand as Carol snickered and leaned into his side.

"I didn't say anything!" Sebastian gasped, eyes wide with feigned innocence as every eye was on him in an instant.

"See that you don't," Kurt reprimanded, grinning, then nodded to Russell to continue as the wedding party tried to pull themselves together.

"Do you, Blaine Anderson, take Kurt Hummel to be your husband…" he said, then followed it up with a bunch of other words that Kurt had heard at dozens of weddings over the years. "I do, absolutely," Blaine grinned, squeezing Kurt's hand.

"And do you, Kurt Hummel, take Blaine Anderson to be your husband…" he began again, saying all the same words that Kurt knew he was pretty much required to say. "I do, so much, yes," Kurt answered, and had to bite his bottom lip to keep from laughing out loud at his own overwhelming joy.

"Blaine and Kurt have written their vows, and would like to share them with one another, as well as all of you fine people in attendance," Russell said, his voice full of mirth as he did so. "Now, if we can get their attention…" he said, clearing his throat as he looked pointedly at the couple before him who were staring at one another as if nobody else existed. "Who would like to go first?"

"Hmm? Oh! Oh, yes, I...I can. I will," Blaine stuttered out, a big toothy grin for Kurt, but he never let go of his hands or lost eye contact. "You are so stunning," he began, eyes on Kurt's face, his head tilted to the side a bit as he ran the back of his fingertips down Kurt's pink cheek. He looked at Kurt as if seeing him for the first time that day, then spoke from his heart. "I probably should have written all of this down, but then I'd have to look at what I was reading and I don't want to miss a minute of your smile today," he said softly, and Kurt heard what almost sounded like a whimper from Carol followed up by a few soft "awwwws" from the assembled guests. "Kurt, there is a moment when you say to yourself, 'Oh, there you are…I've been looking for you forever'. When I first saw you, that morning in the city when you were walking with Rachel, that was a moment for me. You took my breath away then, as you continue to do every single day, and I knew that I needed you in my life. But in a split second, you were gone. The fates smiled upon me, apparently, and set us in each other's path once again, and I am forever grateful for that. You see, Kurt, you make my life worth living. I was merely existing before you came along. I was conscious and breathing and such, but...I wasn't living. You bring light and joy and meaning to my life, and I want to spend the rest of our days making sure I offer you those same things every single day. I promise to love you and honor you because you deserve nothing less. I will be the rock you lean on when things get tough, and I don't ever want you to question that support, because you'll always have it. I promise to be faithful to you, Kurt, in every way. I will build you up, encourage you and cheer you on in all of your endeavors. You are my love, my heart, my soul, and I promise, today and every day, to lovingly care for that heart and show you how much you mean to me in every way. I am so very proud to be with you, and I will strive every day to be someone you are proud to call your own. And if all of that wasn't clear enough, I am so in love with you, Kurt, and this...right here, with all of our family and friends…and you, my amazing friend and lover, this is the greatest day of my life and it's all because of you."

"I am so very proud to be with you, Blaine," Kurt nearly choked out, his eyes leaking down his cheeks as he stared into the face of the man he loved more than he ever thought he could love another person.

"And with that, Kurt, I believe you have a few things to say as well?" Russell joked as Kurt tried to pull himself together.

Kurt raised his hands and set them softly on Blaine's cheeks, gazing into his honey-colored eyes for a few seconds to settle himself.

"Hi," he grinned widely.

"Hi, yourself," Blaine answered, grinning, and he too was overcome with the gravity of the moment. His smile was wide as he lifted a hand to lay it over Kurt's. "Take your time, love."

"I have so much to say, though," Kurt chuckled. With a deep breath, he began. "First of all, you look absolutely stunning, if I do say so myself." Kurt rolled his eyes with a "what can I say" look that made the gathered guests all snicker and chuckle. "Ok, here goes," he began with a deep breath. "I came to New York trying to escape my life in Ohio. Don't get me wrong, I had a great support system there, wonderful family, good friends, and a decent job...but it wasn't right. There were too many bad memories and I felt in my bones that I needed a change. I'd like to think it was the universe tugging me toward you, toward my destiny, toward love and stability. From the moment I saw you sitting in that coffee shop, I knew that you and I were destined to be...something. I couldn't get you out of my head, and truth be told, it wasn't such a hardship," he laughed. "Here we are, all these months later and you're not just something, Blaine…you're everything. I am so very lucky to have found you and you have changed my life...changed me...for the better. I was broken, half a man, uncertain, shy and scared. You stepped into my life and reminded me that I am worthy of love, and you offered so much, Blaine. There was never a question that you were it for me. My heart knew it, and I'm pretty sure yours did as well. And I am so very, very proud to call you mine. You have shown me the greatest patience, kindness, love, and sincerity. You have gone above and beyond in pushing me to believe in myself and you've lifted me up in countless ways for which I will spend the rest of my days showing my gratitude. I promise, here and now, before all these fine people, to lift you up, to encourage you, and to show you how amazing you are. I will be there to share in all your accomplishments and I will be your greatest cheerleader. I will be there when you struggle, and I will hold your hand through it all until we remedy it together. I will work hard to make you proud to be with me every single day, and I will be faithful, loyal, and devoted to you and to us, to our relationship, because what we have is something amazing that is very special to me. You are my love, my life, and my heart, Blaine Anderson, and I want to spend every day with you making memories for a lifetime."

There was only silence as it seemed time had stopped and they stood there, hands clasped between them once again, smiling at one another as if they were the only ones in the room.

"Gentlemen, I don't think I've ever heard more heartfelt vows. Fine job of it, fellas," Russell grinned. "Now, I believe there are rings?"

"Yes, we have them," Jeff replied, stepping forward as Finn did, too. The men retrieved the rings from their pockets and handed them to the grooms. Blaine carefully watched Kurt's face as Finn handed over the piece of jewelry he hoped he and Kurt would wear and love for the rest of their days.

Kurt accepted it, then examined it closely, his eyes widening as he looked at Blaine, then down at the ring in Blaine's hand. "Blaine…" he breathed out. "Your grandpa's ring?"

Blaine nodded, his smile blinding. "I hope that's ok? It was pretty wide, and I thought...well, they had a rock-solid marriage, so full of love, tenderness, and devotion, and I hoped that this ring would bring us that same good fortune."

"I couldn't love this more than I do...thank you," Kurt told him in hushed tones, then turned the ring in his hands and his eyes flew even wider. "B…?" he questioned, then reached for Blaine's hand, turning it until he could see the bottom of Blaine's ring as well as his own. There, intricately cut and carved with great precision, was the tiniest, little puzzle piece cut from Blaine's ring, and the matching segment that fit inside it on Kurt's half. "I've finally found you…" Kurt whispered.

"My missing puzzle piece," Blaine grinned back. Russell cleared his throat, and Blaine could tell he was amused with their quiet revelations.

"Gentlemen?" he prompted.

"Yes, yeah...I...uh…" Blaine began, more than a little shaken by the fierce love he saw in Kurt's eyes. "Kurt, please take this ring as a sign of my love and devotion to you and to our union," he said, then slid the ring onto Kurt's finger.

"Blaine, please take this ring as a sign of my love and devotion to you and to our union," Kurt repeated, nearly breathless at this point as he slid the ring onto Blaine's finger as well.

"Russell, please say I can kiss him now?" Blaine pleaded, and the guests all snickered and there may or may not have been a catcall from Cooper.

"I think we've said all there is to say here, folks. It is clear that these two have willingly joined together in love, fidelity, devotion, and loyalty of their own free will. So, by the power vested in me by the great state of New York, I now pronounce you -"

Blaine didn't even allow him to finish, surging forward to softly cup Kurt's face and kiss him as if his very life depended on it. The kiss was more than chaste, less than indecent, and there was nobody present who would call it anything less than perfect. They pulled away from one another when the need for air became too much and Kurt tilted his head to rest his forehead on Blaine's.

"I am so in love with you," Kurt whispered to his husband.

"As I am with you, Kurt. Today is the first day of the rest of our lives, love. Let's show these people how to celebrate, shall we?"

With a nod and a short, sweet peck to Blaine's face, Kurt turned them toward the crowd and lifted their joined hands between them. The applause, which had begun when they kissed one another, was instantly thunderous and overwhelming as they made their way down the aisle, back out the doors in the rear of the ballroom into Eileen's waiting arms.

"Bravo, gentlemen! That was, by far, one of the very best moments this old house has ever witnessed, and I pray that your love and joy seeps into the walls and stays there for generations to come. Well done!" she exclaimed. "Now off to get your photos taken and I'll take care of the guests in here, ok?"

"Thank you, again, for everything, Eileen. This day, this beautiful place is everything I wanted and so much more. You've done so much for us, outdone yourself, really, and we'll never be able to thank you enough," Kurt told her. He and Blaine both enveloped her in a big hug as the rest of the wedding party filed out of the ballroom behind them. She beamed at them as they released her and headed outside to finish the photographs with the wedding party.

"Ok, photographs everyone! The lovely young lady will be waiting for you outside. You have free reign, boys. Please feel free to use any part of the grounds and the house for your photos. I'll see you soon!" she called, gliding off to the ballroom to make sure every guest was taken care of and comfortable.

---

"What are you thinking?" Blaine asked softly, watching Kurt stare out across the lawn at the kids as they goofed around, Suzanne snapping photos left and right.

With a serene smile and a squeeze to Blaine's hand Kurt said, softly, "this is, without a doubt, the most perfect and wonderful day of my life. Nothing else that has ever come before it or will ever come after it will be as good as this."

Blaine didn't reply right away, just held Kurt's hand and squeezed it as he, too, watched the goings on in front of him. They had found a small, shaded alcove with a little, bubbling fountain set off in the tree line and sat down after Suzanne had taken a zillion photos of them with the wedding party. They had all stood together in the photos, most of them holding the hand next to them regardless of whose hand it was, and Kurt couldn't wait to see the pictures. His family, as he considered each and every one of them, regardless of whether they shared a bloodline, smiled widely for their wedding pictures and didn't even gripe. Not even Santana had a snarky remark. The sun was shining, the sky was blue and the birds were chirping...and Kurt was absolutely over the moon.

"I have to agree with you, sweetheart. I don't know what could possibly make it better, I really don't. I don't want to jinx it or anything, but...this day has been so very perfect that I'm almost at a loss for words to describe the happiness, contentment and joy I'm feeling. Most of it, though, is because of the man currently holding my hand."

With wide eyes, Kurt abruptly leaned forward to glance at Blaine, then to the other side of the bench, which was, of course, empty. Then, with a giggle, he said "oh, you meant me…" and Blaine snickered, leaning in to nudge Blaine in the shoulder. "You're so weird," he huffed, rolling his eyes.

"And now you're stuck with me forever. Muahahahahahaaa!" Kurt grinned, leaning back to bump Blaine's shoulder. After a split second, he leaned in again and kissed the corner of Blaine's mouth. "The day isn't even over yet. We still have the reception…"

"We do, yes…"

"Hmm, and...oh, yes, there's the matter of our wedding night. But we can just forget that if you -ahhhh!" Kurt yelped, as Blaine threw both arms around him and squeezed tightly, laughing and kissing him softly all over his face.

"NOT a chance in hell, Kurt. This night is one I've been looking forward to for a long time. I plan to make love to my husband tonight for the first time, and I plan to remember it for many, many years to come as one of the happiest moments of my life."

"Sweet talker…" Kurt blushed bashfully.

"I love you, Kurt."

"And I love you so much. Please don't ever doubt that, Blaine."

"Keep reminding me?"

"Every single day," Kurt said softly.

"Uncle Kurt, Uncle Blaine!" came the shriek from Mattie as he raced across the lawn toward them. "Look, look!" he yelled, holding up a wet, muddy blob. "It's a frog! Dad says I can keep it at your house!" he said excitedly, eyes wide with mirth.

"He said that, did he?" Blaine asked with a broad smile, trying and failing to hide his gritted teeth.

"No, not really, but he said to tell you guys that and see what you'd say!" Mattie giggled, then ran away with the frog, screaming with glee as Blaine jumped from the bench and chased him back to the assembled wedding party. Kurt merely shook his head and sauntered after them with a smile that showed just how utterly content he was with his life and the amazing people in it.

---

"Did you know they were going to do this?" Blaine whispered, his nose tucked up behind Kurt's ear.

"I didn't, but I wouldn't have put it past them to do something like this either. It's what glee clubs do, Blaine. You know this," Kurt grinned, holding his husband and swaying to the music as Mercedes belted out the most fantastic version of Etta James' At Last.

"That woman needs a recording label to hear this. She's got some chops, doesn't she?"

"That she does, Love. That she does. You should have seen the girls go at it back in the day, fighting for solos and vying for the spotlight. It was a sight to behold. Truth be told, though, they're all pretty incredible and we did as well as we did because of them. For a long time I thought I was absolutely miserable in high school, and for a while I was...but when I look back now, I know that some of my best days were spent with these people, in glee club, singing our hearts out and just being teenagers. I'm so glad they're here, Blaine. Thank you for making that happen."

"Kurt…" Blaine breathed out, squeezing his husband tightly. "You know I'd do anything in my power to make you happy. If that's inviting your friends into our lives, then I'll do it over and over again just to see you smile."

As the song came to a close, Kurt and Blaine made their way back to the bridal party's table and sat down. They were serving dinner and everyone was ready to eat, then party. Toward the end of the meal, however, Cooper stood and tapped his fork to his glass several times.

"Oh no…" Blaine whispered, eyes falling closed as he let his head drop. Kurt snickered next to him and grabbed his hand.

"May I have your attention, please?" Cooper bellowed into the microphone some misguided soul had given him. "As Blaine's brother and co-best-man this evening, I have a few words to say, if you'll indulge me?"

"Please be kind!" Blaine stage whispered, much to the amusement of everyone around them.

"Now, now, Blaine…" Cooper said, then winked.

"Jeff?" Blaine pleaded, looking around for his friend.

"Naw, man, he's got this, B. We did rock, paper, scissors and he won!" he snickered and Blaine grumbled.

With a deep breath and a sneaky grin Cooper walked over behind Blaine and began to speak. "I've known Blaine longer than anyone in this room...except for maybe my lovely Mother," he said, winking at Cris. "And it wasn't always fun, let me tell ya!"

Blaine groaned and everyone else snickered. Cooper laid his hand on Blaine's shoulder and squeezed.

"And I'm sure I could go on and on and tell you some amazingly embarrassing stories about Blaine and his inability to aim straight into the toilet until he was six or even when he came down the slide in our pool at the ripe old age of eight...and his swim trunks didn't make the journey with him…"

"Cooper, for God's sake!" Blaine nearly growled, resting his head on his crossed arms on the table.

"I could tell you about the first time Blaine got drunk and called me because he woke up underneath the kitchen table, babbling about how he was never leaving that spot because it was safe and Mom wouldn't be able to see him there and she'd never know…"

"It's official, I hate you…" Blaine murmured and Kurt snickered.

"But I'm not gonna do that-"

"Small mercies…"

"But I will take this time to tell you about my Blaine, the most important man in my life, my friend, my confidant, my partner in crime, my little brother, who means more to me than he'll ever know," Cooper said quietly. Blaine raised his head now and turned slightly to look at his brother with a fond grin. "I'll tell you about the day Mom and Dad brought him home from the hospital and I was so disappointed that he wasn't a puppy. I loved him anyway. I'll tell you about the day I had to go to school and Blaine stood in the doorway and cried as I got on the bus. Bobby Williams must have been the clumsiest kid ever, because after his comment about the crybaby at the door he found himself face down on the bus floor. Dunno how that happened," Cooper snickered, shaking his head and shrugging. "I'll tell you about flying home and risking academic probation while I was in law school...because my amazingly talented little brother was going to sing his heart out at a competition and I knew Mom and Dad were out of town, and like hell he wasn't going to have someone there cheering just for him."

With that, Blaine turned, stunned, eyes wide and grabbed a hold of Cooper's hand which was still on Blaine's shoulder.

"You never told me that!" he whispered, only to Cooper. Coop just grinned and shrugged.

"I'll tell you about my little brother going through some seriously rough times in high school, and instead of whining about his own life, he threw himself into taking care of the people around him because that's how he is. He truly loves and cherishes his friends, and because of that, he's accumulated such a fantastic bunch of people…" Cooper said, voice breaking as Jeff placed his hand on top of Blaine's. "We are so blessed." Cooper shook his head, looking up and down the table at the assembled wedding party, then out to the guests. Maggie caught his eye and mouthed "I love you so much" and he smiled his best smile for her.

"I'll tell you about the time Blaine came to New York with a plan to make a new life here, despite the fact that he only knew me and he didn't have a job or a place of his own. I'll let you in on a little secret, Blaine. You could have stayed with me forever and I wouldn't have kicked you out," Coop winked again. Blaine rolled his eyes and laughed. "But I digress. Let me tell you about the best Blaine I've seen yet, if you'll humor me? My little brother came to the city without much...a backpack full of stuff and big dreams. A few weeks into his stay he came home from a coffee shop on a random Sunday morning and he was...different. I couldn't put my finger on it, but there was an odd little spring in his step as he went about his day, and when I asked him about it, he just shrugged it off. Eventually he told me how he'd seen the most incredibly handsome man through the window in that coffee shop," Cooper went on, and everyone who already knew the story cooed and awwwed as Blaine blushed.

"And we're back to the embarrassing stuff," Blaine groaned, rolling his eyes.

"It's my job, sit back and listen, brat. Anyway, we found Blaine a great apartment and he decided to throw a party one evening and lo and behold, the incredibly handsome man lived next door! They finally found one another, built a relationship together and started their lives together. The two of them have been through some of the craziest stuff you can imagine...some happy, some sad, some scary as hell, if we're being honest, but through it all they've remained steadfast. They have let love lead them to this point. They have cultivated a relationship full of honesty, trust and encouragement. I have no doubt that these two will stand the test of time. There is nobody more perfect for Blaine than Kurt, and I'd venture to say there's nobody more perfect for Kurt than Blaine. The two of them are…" he paused, looking for the right words, then smiled. "They are the others' missing puzzle piece, and it's a pretty perfect fit. And the rest, as they say, is history. But the story doesn't end there, does it, boys?" Cooper went on, his tone soft, fond, loving as he looked between Blaine and Kurt. "The story is just beginning, and I can't wait to be there to experience every chapter with the two of you. You are the embodiment of love at first sight, soul mates and so much more, and I have been blessed to be a part of the journey thus far. I can't wait to see what the future holds for the two of you, and I look forward to being there for you the same way the two of you have been there for Maggie, the kids and me. We love you, we wish you every good thing, and we are grateful to have you both in our lives."

Blaine surged from his seat, throwing his arms around Cooper as he did so, trying so hard not to cry, and failing miserably. He held on for a long while, letting everyone settle after they finished clapping for Cooper's surprisingly genuine speech. He felt Kurt join the hug and smiled, wiping his eyes as he did so with his dinner napkin, but then he heard Rachel clear her throat to get everyone's attention.

"I love you, Squirt. Don't ever change. You…" Cooper said, squeezing Kurt tightly. "You take care of him, and let him take care of you as well. Trust, talk, yell, rant, screw...do what you do, but never give up on each other. You guys are the real deal, and we love you so much," he said, a hitch in his voice. He let go of them and took his seat, tugging Maggie onto his lap as he did so.

"I don't know how to follow that, but I'll try," Rachel began, casting Kurt and Blaine a fond smile full of love. "I've known Kurt for many years. We were in grade school together for three years until my dads and I moved. We reconnected again in high school, and I realized then how much I'd missed my best friend. Kurt is, and has always been, a steadfast confidant. Even when he was being tormented, bullied and harassed daily at school, he always found time to be there for anyone who needed him. And there were so many times when I needed him. He selflessly listened to me go on and on about things that...well, when I look back on them now, seem so utterly insignificant. He never made me feel as if I was taking up too much of his time, or that I was boring him, because he's a fantastic person - the best kind of friend, really. When Kurt moved to New York, he stayed with Finn and I until he found his own place. Those were some of the happiest days of my life, if I'm being honest, because I was surrounded by two of my favorite guys," she said, winking at Kurt, then at Finn. "When Kurt told me about the guy in the coffee shop, I thought he was crazy for even entertaining the thought that he might ever see him again. But, when something is meant to be, it works out, apparently. I have never seen two people better suited to one another. I've never seen two people love each other, unconditionally, the way they do. They are the kings of miscommunication -" she began, but everyone had started snickering at Blaine, who looked at Kurt and mimed "us?" as if he was appalled that she'd even consider accusing them of such a thing. Rachel rolled her eyes and continued.

"As I was saying, they are the kings of miscommunication, but always come out on the other side of things all the better for it. Love truly does conquer all, because they've been through it all, and here we are...all of us, standing up for them and with them, watching them trade vows with one another, and knowing in our hearts that they mean every single word. This day, gentlemen, being here with the two of you, all of your family and friends...this day will always be one of the happiest days of my life, because I can see how utterly, selflessly and completely you love each other, and I'm so unbelievably grateful that you included all of us in your happiness. I look forward to the future knowing that my best friend has found his soulmate, and I could not have hand picked anyone better suited to the task. Wishing you both every happiness, and we love you so very much!"

With that, she set the microphone on the table and hugged Kurt with everything in her, crying without any shame and holding on for dear life. Blaine joined them and pulled them both close, whispering "Thank you, Rachel, for bringing him here...so that I could find him. We love you, too," as she quietly wept on Kurt's shoulder, and Kurt sobbed on hers as well.

---

Blaine, with his insatiable sweet tooth, was unable to stay away from the cake for very long. He and Kurt removed the top tier of the cake, which was carried away by one of Eileen's staff members and wrapped carefully for them to take home and freeze, then share it on their one year anniversary. Blaine quickly grabbed a hunk of cake from his plate and acted as if he was going to smash it in Kurt's face...until Kurt gave him the stink eye, wordlessly daring him to do so. Blaine, instead, burst out laughing and gently placed a bite in Kurt's mouth. He leaned in to kiss his new hubby and Kurt allowed his eyes to flutter shut briefly, bringing his hand up to cup Blaine's jaw...and promptly smeared cake all over his lover's face.

"Oh, you will SO pay for that later, Kurt Hummel!" Blaine laughed, wiping buttercream from his eyebrows as their friends and family guffawed nearby, snapping photos on their phones as Suzanne captured it all for their wedding album.

The band that they'd hired to play kept everyone on the dance floor with a mix of slow, love songs and snappy dance numbers. One of the highlights of the evening, though, was when their friends took turns on the mic, singing songs for them and for the guests, and kept up the party atmosphere. The girls sang a rousing rendition of Candyman which had them all on their feet, young and old. They morphed that into Going to the Chapel and had everyone singing along.

"Sing with me?" Kurt asked, batting his eyelashes at Blaine as he did so.

"Sing? Now? We haven't...I mean...sure, but what do you want to sing?" Blaine asked, always up for some fun.

"Hmmm...how about...The Way You Look Tonight? Think we can pull it off?"

"Of course we can, but...you have to give me a minute to listen to it on my phone and make sure I know the words," Blaine laughed.

"Let's find a quiet corner and listen together, shall we?" Kurt flirted, then dragged his husband away to the hallway.

More than a few minutes later, after listening to the song twice and quite a few kisses, they snuck back into the ballroom, hand in hand, and approached the stage to make their request. The band's singer informed them that they'd be happy to play the song and the boys readied themselves, Blaine taking a big swig of water and Kurt humming scales under his breath.

As they stepped onto the stage together the gathered guests tittered and clapped for them as the music played softly behind them.

"If you'll indulge us…" Kurt grinned, adjusting the microphone stand as Blaine did the same, dragging another one closer to Kurt. "We haven't really practiced this one, but...it seemed appropriate...so, without further ado...let's just say this one's for someone very, very special to me," Kurt said softly, then winked at Blaine. With a nod into the crowd, he began to sing. "...Some day…when I'm awfully low...when the world is cold...I will feel a glow just thinking of you...and the way you look tonight."

Couples moved to the dance floor as the newlyweds serenaded them, moving gracefully around the floor as the boys sang. Carol and Burt were the first ones to take advantage of the beautiful song, followed by Cris and Bill, Finn and Rachel and Cooper and Maggie as well as a good handful of others. Even Mattie and Evee swayed together as they watched their uncles serenade one another on the raised dais. Their voices sounded as if they were meant to sing that song, and many of the guests sat in awe of the two men as the song progressed. As if by design, the song came to an end and Finn spun Rachel around right in front of the dais.

"...'cause I love you...just the way you look tonight…" they finished, and Kurt smiled his heart out as he watched his brother sing softly in Rachel's ear as the song ended...then drop to one knee as his best friend audibly gasped, eyes wide. There really was only one reason a man got down on one knee in front of his girlfriend, after all. Blaine grabbed Kurt's hand, clearly excited and suddenly very aware of what was going on before them.

"I got express permission from Kurt to do this tonight," Finn began, his eyes on Rachel as he reached for her hand. "And he assured me Blaine wouldn't mind at all, so...yeah. I'm pretty sure he won't be all bent out of shape, don't worry," he grinned. The guests could have heard a pin drop in the room as he spoke. "I could try to blurt out a whole lot of pretty, practiced words, but you and I both know that's not me. It wouldn't be genuine or from my heart like that, rehearsed and memorized. I'll just say what I'm feeling, if that's ok?" he asked, and Rachel, eyes glassy and wet, uttered a barely audible "okay...yeah…"

"We've been together for a long time now and there is nobody in this whole world as important to me as you, Rachel. You are the best thing...you're just...you're the peanut butter to my jelly, the sun to my moon and the rhythm to my blues. I don't know what I'd do without you and I don't ever want to find out. I want you to be mine, officially, for the rest of my days on this earth...if you'll have me? Will you-"

"YES, oh my GOSH, Finn, YES!" Rachel gasped, and threw her arms around him, crying outright now as Finn spun her around on the floor to raucous applause.

"Oh, wait, I have…" Finn said, pulling back from her and patting his pockets.

"Finn?" Kurt said, then reached into his own pocket and handed Finn a small box.

"Oh yeah. We thought it was probably best if Kurt held the ring," Finn chuckled. He opened the velvet box and held it up for Rachel to see. The diamond ring sparkled brightly and, if it was possible, Rachel sobbed even harder as she offered her shaky, left hand to Finn. He slid the ring on her finger and hugged her again and the room exploded with applause, but nobody clapped harder than Kurt.

Catching Rachel's eye as Finn spun her around, he mouthed "I love you!" to her and she said it right back.

"You knew he was...that this would...that Finn was going to...and you didn't say...you didn't tell me?" Blaine stuttered out, surprised and elated for their friends. Kurt tugged him in for a hug and whispered in his ear, "Finn was an absolute mess. He wasn't sure he'd be able to do it, so I didn't want to say anything just in case. I'm so glad that he did, though."

"So am I, oh my gosh, look how happy they are!" Blaine chuckled. Burt and Carol had joined Finn and Rachel in a group hug along with Rachel's dads and they all laughed and cried as they celebrated.

"I think it's time to give them a few minutes to themselves, love," Kurt whispered in Blaine's ear. "Now...if you'll excuse me, I have to serenade my smokin' hot husband."

"Is that so?" Blaine teased him.

"It is...and Blaine? I mean every word…" Kurt told him, then turned to the band and nodded.

The song started slowly with a single guitar playing as Kurt quietly began with "...this one is for the love of my life. Blaine, I love you so very much…" before softly singing as he kept eye contact with Blaine the whole time.

"It's amazing how you can speak right to my heart…without saying a word, you can light up the dark, try as I may I could never explain... what I hear when you don't say a thing..."

Blaine's breath rushed from his lungs as Kurt began to sing. His voice was clear and beautiful, steady and perfect as he sang words of love to his new husband. He had played the song for Blaine once before and Blaine had never heard it...or had never heard that version. Kurt's beautiful voice gave Alison Krauss a run for her money and Blaine shivered as he felt a hand on his shoulder.

"He is a stunner, isn't he?" Aria said in his ear.

"He is absolutely amazing and I love him so very much," Blaine answered, his eyes never leaving Kurt.

"You are one lucky man, Blaine...but he might just be luckier," she whispered, then squeezed his shoulder and rejoined Zayne as he approached her with champagne in his hand.

"The smile on your face lets me know that you need me...there's a truth in your eyes sayin' you'll never leave me...the touch of your hand says you'll catch me if ever I fall...You say it best when you say nothing at all…." Kurt finished, then handed the microphone off and all but fell into Blaine's arms on the dance floor.

"I am so incredibly proud to say you're mine, Kurt. I love you so much."

"And I love you, B...today, tomorrow, and every day after that. Love you forever," Kurt said as he kissed the side of Blaine's face and slowly, tenderly made his way to Blaine's lips. Santana and Quinn had taken the stage and were singing a splendid version of Christina Perri's A Thousand Years as the boys danced and held each other under the sparkling chandeliers, surrounded by friends and loved ones.

---

"Sneaking out so soon?" Rachel asked, teasing Naomi as the pregnant girl held up her long skirt and walked down the estate's sprawling front steps with Sebastian on one arm and Hunter on the other. Finn and Rachel had accepted dozens of congratulations and well wishes and had snuck out, themselves, to sit on the front portico and get some fresh air. They may or may not have also pilfered a bottle of champagne which sat between them on the steps.

"Sneaking…" Naomi laughed. "It's rather hard to sneak with a belly this size, and the little one's been giving me grief all day. My back is aching and, where I'd thought it was most likely Braxton Hicks contractions, I'm not so su-" she began, and then her face morphed into a humorous mix of surprise, delight and anxiety. "Oh my goodness...Hunter...I think…" she said softly, barely loud enough for Rachel and Finn to hear but her body had visibly tensed and it was clear that something was happening.

Sebastian tightened his hold on her arm as her knees seemed to turn to jelly for a moment and her eyes flew wide.

"Naomi?" he said, concerned, but the telling trail of wetness that trickled from under the hem of her dress said everything he needed to know. "Oh my God, is that...is it time?" he asked, his voice shaky and tense at the same time.

"Babe?" Hunter asked, sliding up closer to the girl between him and Sebastian. "Sweetheart, are you…" he began, but trailed off as she looked up at him with glassy eyes and said "I think we need to go...now...to the hospital. Can we…?" she said, obviously anxious now as she caught Rachel's eye.

"Don't tell them yet, ok? Don't take away from their night, please? I'll tell Kurt when he gets home from the honeymoon. If he should ask, please just tell him I was tired and had to go."

"Oh my goodness, of course!" Rachel beamed, "Go, hurry, and best of luck!" she said, leaning in to hug Naomi and kiss her cheek as she awkwardly waddled to the waiting car as quickly as possible.

Sebastian was already on his phone, rushing back into the house as Hunter helped Naomi into a waiting luxury car. Minutes later he came back out with a few towels, a light blanket and a uniformed man who jumped into a waiting vehicle across the driveway, reached out to put a flashing light on top of his car, and the two cars took off from the estate in no time at all.

"So...wait...why are Hunter and Sebastian leaving with the pregnant girl?" Finn asked, just now catching up.

"I'm not certain...but I have a sneaking suspicion," Rachel grinned, hugging closely to Finn's side as she waved the car away. "Dance with me?"

"With my beautiful fiance? I'd love to," Finn answered, and they turned to go back inside, hand in hand.

---

Blaine held his mother in his arms and slowly spun her around the dance floor as the band played an absolutely fantastic version of Nat King Cole's "Unforgettable". And she was, every day, in every way, unforgettable to him.

"I don't have to ask if you're happy, Little B. I can see it in your eyes that you're beyond thrilled with your life right now," she grinned. "Although...I remember a time not so long ago that you were not. I'm so happy that you've found Kurt, my love. He completes you in every way, and you him. I couldn't have asked for a better partner for you."

"He's spectacular. I'm head over heels and the luckiest man alive," Blaine whispered back.

"It was not so long ago, though, that you told me you felt broken...lost...uncertain of your own future. You've told me how Kurt would describe himself the same way...broken. I can't help but think that the two of you have pulled the broken pieces together quite well," she grinned. "There are few worse things for a mother to feel than the heartbreak of her child. I knew you weren't happy at home with me," she began, but Blaine cut her off.

"Mama, no...it wasn't you, you must know that-"

"I do know it, Love. I do," she nodded. "And you were right to leave a situation that was detrimental to your happiness, as well as your health and well-being. You're a smart boy, and I'm so very proud of you, Blaine, of everything you've accomplished, and the goals you're working toward. So very proud...of you and of your talented husband. Kurt is a fine young man and I love him as my own. Two hearts broken by different circumstances have found one another…" she grinned, kissing his cheek, "and it's a beautiful love that you share. Thank you for allowing the rest of us to be a part of it, sweetheart." They danced together, Blaine humming the song as they did so, holding his mother tightly as he spun her around the floor.

"We've commissioned a wedding gift for you, Burt, Carol, Bill and me. The idea came to us much too late to have it finished before the wedding, but at the very least it will be complete by the time you return from your honeymoon. I'd like it very much if it was sooner, but we'll just have to wait and see, won't we?"

"You didn't have to do that," Blaine grinned, but hugged her closely anyway. "But I'm sure, whatever it is, we'll both love it. Thank you."

She nodded, emotion clogging her throat as she saw Kurt dancing with Carol over Blaine's shoulder.

"We're so blessed," she said, choked up as she watched Bill bounce Evee on his knee while she cackled and screamed with mirth. Her arms were flailing all over as her hair escaped it's little updo, Mattie patiently waiting his turn with their "Gramps". She would discuss her own engagement with her boys when Blaine and Kurt returned from their honeymoon, but not before. This time was for them. She only hoped they could be even a fraction as happy for her as she was for them. Her sons loved their mother, after all, and would only want her happiness.

"I love you, Blaine. Please don't ever doubt that. Whatever you need, whenever you need me, I'll be here. Just know that," she said, patting him on the cheek and stepping back to smile widely at her youngest son as the song ended.

"I know, Mama, and I love you, too." Blaine tugged her in for a long hug, then released her when Bill approached and asked for the next dance. Blaine watched them twirl away to a more upbeat song and his heart ached for all the years that his mother spent under his father's thumb. Bill made her happy, it was plain to see, and he was welcome to stay around as long as that remained true. He caught eyes with Cooper across the room, who had been watching their mother as well, and Cooper winked at him and gave a short nod.

"They look good together," Kurt smiled as he walked up behind Blaine and put his arms around his husband.

"They do. She's happy, and I am so happy for her. She's come alive over the past year, and I'm just glad to see it, ya know?"

"I do. She deserves it. You're ok with Bill?" Kurt asked.

"I'm ok with whoever makes her smile like that, and if it's Bill...he's a keeper," Blaine grinned, then turned in his husband's arms. "I think I need more cake."

"You are such a child," Kurt chuckled, rolling his eyes.

"I'll let you feed me," Blaine said softly, coyly, then winked at Kurt as he tugged him to the dessert.

"If I must," Kurt huffed, threw his husband a saucy grin, but followed along anyway.

---

The boys made their rounds and said their goodbyes. There were many hugs, many thanks and even more well-wishes offered. They pulled Richard and Eileen aside and offered every bit of gratitude they had for the use of their home and the grounds for their big day. Eileen was still in her glory, having pulled everything together seamlessly, and she shooed them out when they offered to stay behind and help with the clean up. There was no changing her mind, so they left keys to the apartment with Burt and Carol, gave and received even more hugs, and departed in their own luxury car that Nick had provided for them, overnight bags packed and their second winds drifting away with the late hour.

Check-in at their hotel went smoothly and without issue, Jeff having apparently stopped there earlier and made a few arrangements, and the boys found themselves in a luxury suite unlike any they had ever seen.

"This is absolutely not the room we reserved," Blaine said, turning in circles in the massive living area as he tried to take in every inch of the opulent suite.

"It's fantastic…" Kurt breathed out, looking out the massive floor-to-ceiling windows that overlooked the city lights below.

There were platters of cheese, fruit, nuts and crackers along with sparkling water, soda, champagne and juices laid out on the suite's dining room buffet. There were small plates of desserts overflowing with tiny cupcakes, slices of cheesecake in all flavors (which made Kurt giggle) and rich, decadent tortes. There were finger sandwiches and condiments as well. The buffet was covered, end to end, with enough food for a party, and it was only the two of them.

"Did you order this?" Kurt asked, but from the bewildered look on Blaine's face he knew the answer already.

"I didn't, but I'm actually glad it's here. I didn't eat lunch today. I was too nervous and I didn't eat much at the reception. I'm kinda starved."

A huge, brightly wrapped basket sat in the middle of a gleaming wood table that would seat up to eight, if necessary. "Are we having a party, or…?" he said, grinning.

"Oh, we're having a party alright, but it's just the two of us invited, I think," Blaine grinned and grabbed Kurt's hand leading him to the basket on the table. The little envelope read "Newlyweds" and Blaine reached for it instinctively.

Boys,

Please accept this small token of our appreciation for everything you've done for all of us. Enjoy the evening, have fun, be safe, and we'll see you after the honeymoon!

We love you guys!

N J S & H

Inside was a plethora of top of the line goodies, everything from crazy flavored lube to insanely expensive silk boxers and robes with plush slippers. They unwrapped candles, bubble bath, Swiss chocolates and massage oils. They couldn't believe the generous gift their friends had chipped in to give them, especially after they had already sent or given "wedding gifts" prior to the wedding and upgraded their honeymoon suite.

"We have pretty fantastic friends," Blaine said softly.

"Understatement...wow…" Kurt replied, sifting through everything in the basket, shaking his head. "Did you see Hunter and Sebastian when we were leaving?"

"No...I didn't, but...I mean, there were a lot of people and they may have just slipped out. I know Hunter took a half day today, but he probably has to work early tomorrow again."

"You're probably right. I'm so glad they agreed to walk down the aisle with us. It just really didn't feel right to do all of this without them. They're part of our family now…" Kurt grinned.

"Whether they like it or not!" Blaine snickered, nudging Kurt in the shoulder. "We'll see them before we leave, I'm sure. And, I mean...it would be pretty rude not to use these things since they've gone to the trouble to make sure we had them, don't you think?" he teased, glancing coyly at Kurt from under his eyelashes.

"Rude, indeed. Time's wasting. Are you going to make me beg, husband?" Kurt asked, flirting madly.

"Kurt, if you didn't look absolutely decadent in that suit, and you wouldn't shred me on our wedding night, I'd have ripped it from your body the minute we passed through the door of the suite. We'll make use of everything in this basket, believe me, and there may be begging involved before we're through," Blaine grinned. "Now, the question is...bubble bath before or after we make love for hours?"

"Mmmm...I think...both?"

"You and your wonderful ideas, love. Race you to the tub?" Blaine said, sprinting off toward the bedroom to divest himself of his beautiful suit, Kurt hot on his heels.

---

Blaine's skin was so soft and the scent of forest and rain still clung to him from their soak in the most massive bathtub Kurt had ever seen. He held Blaine under him on the bed, slowly easing in and out of his lover, his husband, his forever until tears leaked from Blaine's eyes and he begged Kurt for release.

They had opted to leave the drapes open in favor of the night sky and Kurt could see the sun coming up as he made love to the man who had brought him such joy, such happiness and such contentment...the likes of which he'd never known in his lifetime. He'd brought Blaine to the edge over and over, only to slow his thrusts in order to draw out their lovemaking as long as possible. Kurt was sore, stiff in all the right places and knew he'd be feeling this night for a week or more, but every muscle ached in the very best way, every ligament, every joint screamed at him that it was time, that he needed to rest, that he should finish and allow Blaine to do the same.

With a kiss to Blaine's parted lips Kurt thrust into him with renewed vigor, wiped a tear from Blaine's face before it made its way into his hair and repeated the words Blaine had said to him earlier in the night when he emptied into Kurt the first time as husbands: I am forever yours, you are forever mine, and nothing and nobody can take that from us. I'll love you 'til the end of time.

With those words he pushed himself up, thrust hard into Blaine a dozen times, simultaneously stroking him until Blaine cried out like a wounded animal. His golden eyes on Kurt's glasz depths, he gulped in oxygen until he felt he'd emptied his very soul into Kurt's palm and over his own belly, chanting Kurt's name as barely a breath escaping his lips. Panting and gasping for air, Kurt watched as every muscle in Blaine's body relaxed while his breathing eventually returned to somewhat normal levels. He whispered sweet, loving words into Kurt's ear until they fell into a deep sleep, Kurt still sprawled over his husband as they held hands and slipped into oblivion.

Morning was lost to sleep, and they woke to the sun high and bright in the sky, still wrapped around each other.

"I'm so in love with you."

"Yeah? Awesome. 'Cause you're stuck with me now, Anderson," Kurt snickered, his eyes still closed and his face still smooshed into Blaine's chest hair. He snuck a kiss to Blaine's chest and pushed up to nip at a puckered nipple.

"Anderson-Hummel," Blaine grinned, fingers in Kurt's hair as his back arched a little.

"I kinda love that a lot."

"Me too. You're sure you don't mind?"

"MIND? Of course I don't MIND, Blaine. I kinda love it, actually. And you've pretty much thrilled my dad to death, if we're being honest."

"I just want to be sure. I toyed with just 'Hummel' for a while…" Blaine trailed off, a distant look in his eyes. He looked pensive and it worried Kurt.

"What is it? You went somewhere...and you're tense, I can feel it. You know I love that you took my name, sweetheart, right?"

"I feel like I can talk about it now without jinxing myself," Blaine began, eyes falling closed.

"What is it, Blaine? What do you need? Please tell me what's going on up there?" Kurt asked, running his fingers through Blaine's curls.

"I was so afraid he was going to show up, Kurt. I was terrified he'd come waltzing in, drunk, acting out, belligerent, as if he was owed an invitation. He'd do that, just to spite me...just to make a mess of things and ruin our day. I feel almost as if I held my breath for most of the day, just hoping and praying that he stayed away, or if he did show up, he'd go to the original location. I didn't want him to ruin your day, love."

"Our day, and Richard would have had him removed without issue. Sebastian never would have stood for that and you know what he's capable of when it's needed," Kurt soothed him. "But don't even give it another thought, B. He's not here. He's not a part of our lives anymore. I'm yours, you're mine and there's nothing he can do to change that. Please don't let George Anderson live rent free in your head. He's not worth it."

"I know...I know, and you're right. I won't give it another thought, Kurt. Thank you for making me feel better and always helping me keep things in perspective. I love you," Blaine smiled, and Kurt's heart melted.

"Would you love me better in the bathtub with bubbles?" Kurt teased.

"Oh my God, YES!" Blaine giggled back, then jumped up and dragged Kurt to the bathroom with him.

---

"Oh God, I won't be able to move for a week and I don't care, Blaine...Blaine...please…" Kurt panted out, hands on the tub on either side, Blaine sitting behind him, kissing and nipping his husband's back and shoulders as Kurt rode him like it was his job.

"Your body...Kurt, your body is my favorite thing in the whole world...c'mon, baby...little more, give me a little more, I'm almost there," Blaine pleaded, unable to thrust much with Kurt bouncing in his lap. He reached around Kurt to grasp his length and stroke him as Kurt whined out his orgasm, clenching around Blaine's cock. Seconds later, Blaine went rigid and bucked up under Kurt, holding his lover down on his lap to thrust hard into him, emptying as he growled his pleasure into Kurt's skin.

Kurt collapsed against him, breathing harshly, eyes heavy lidded as they came down, Blaine's hands touching him everywhere, holding him closely.

"What time is checkout?" Kurt asked, barely able to speak.

"About three hours ago," Blaine laughed. "While you were in the shower I called to see if we could have an extra hour and they told me the room had been paid for until tomorrow at 11 am. Our friends know us too well, Kurt," he snickered into the soft, pale skin of Kurt's back. "I texted Burt to let him know we'd probably be staying here tonight as well. He may have snickered and I'm pretty sure I actually heard him roll his eyes. He said he'd be more than happy to escort the girls to the airport when they finished packing their things. I sent him your sincerest thanks."

"Good...very good. Because I'm not finished with you, husband," Kurt purred, turning to kiss Blaine's lips.

---

Monday, late afternoon saw Blaine and Kurt checking out of the hotel with big grins, completely sated and relaxed. They hailed a cab and headed back to their apartment to spend a little time with their parents before leaving for their honeymoon the following morning. Burt met them on the sidewalk as he was heading back from the deli up the street with sandwiches for lunch.

"Hey! Just in time. I thought you might actually come home today, so I picked up a couple of subs for you two as well," he teased. "Nice place?"

"It was...amazing. Between the fire at the venue, the crazy shuffle to get everything moved and the drive back and forth to the estate I think we really needed those couple of nights to just veg out," Kurt answered him. "And we both had a massage in the spa this morning, too!"

"Veg out...is that what the kids are calling it these days?" Burt quipped, eyebrows raised.

"Dad! Stop...you'll embarrass Blaine!" he hissed, grinning.

"Oh no he won't. Everything you think may have happened is probably the PG version of what really happened, Burt," Blaine blurted out causing Kurt to jerk around and gape at him, his mouth wide open.

Burt nearly dropped everything in his hands, chuckling with mirth at Blaine's offhanded comment and Kurt's gobsmacked face. "Close your mouth Kurt, ya look like a birdhouse!" he laughed.

"Oh my God, what's gotten into you?" Kurt asked, flustered as he dragged the suitcase in the front door.

"That may be my fault," Burt chuckled. "I told Blaine he needed to loosen up and not be so uptight. I swear this kid thinks I'm gonna bite his head off every time I come around the corner!" he laughed.

Bliane just shrugged and pulled the suitcase inside the house behind him with a smirk and a wink toward Kurt.

"What time's your flight leave tomorrow, boys?"

"11:35 am, but we'll have to be there early, of course," Kurt answered.

"Carol and I cleared out of your room and put all of our things in the guest room yesterday after the girls left. In fact, if you're ok with it, we were thinking of maybe staying a few extra days?"

"Burt, you know you're always welcome here, even if we're not here. Make yourselves at home and stay as long as you'd like," Blaine told him as they clomped up the stairs into their own apartment.

"Oh, boys, you're home!" Carol called, having already set the table. "I've made some lemonade and set the dishes out. Are you hungry?"

"She means for food, Blaine," Burt said, not even cracking a smile.

"Oh my God, you two, I swear…" Kurt hissed. "Stop it!" His bright red face made Carol chuckle as he pulled the luggage down the hall to their room. "Carol, can you smack some sense into those two for me, please?"

"They're a lost cause, Kurt. Come on in and eat and I'll show you all the photos I took at the wedding!"

With a long sigh and a roll of his eyes, Kurt walked down the hallway shaking his head at his family. He knew, deep in his heart, that he wouldn't change a single thing about any of them.

"Oh! And look! Your wedding gift arrived! Cris should be here any minute, and I know she'd like to be here when you open it, if that's ok?" Carol said, obviously excited. Kurt strolled back into the kitchen and took in the brown paper covered monstrosity leaning against the wall.

"You guys already got us a wedding gift!" Kurt said, huffing, "and I know you've spent a pretty penny on clothing, travel and everything else. There was no need for-"

"Oh, but there was, little ones," Cris said, climbing the stairs as she grinned at the boys. "How was the hotel?" she grinned.

"Fantastic!" Kurt gushed.

"Amazing...all of it!" Blaine chimed in. "But, Mama, you already got us a gift as well. This is a bit over the top, don't you think?" Blaine said, eyeing the large, rectangular thing leaning against the wall in their foyer.

Blaine met her at the top of the stairs and hugged her long and hard.

"Come on in! I'm dying to know what this thing is, Mom. It's HUGE, and it's heavy!" he said, bouncing like an excited child on Christmas morning.

"Same!" Kurt called from the kitchen. "Would anyone like something to drink before we tear into this? No? Ok..."

"Then, by all means, there's no time like the present!" she laughed.

The boys approached the gift, surely a canvas or artwork of some kind, wrapped in plain, brown paper as it leaned against the wall. They gave each other a quick glance before grabbing a corner and tearing the paper off carefully. When most of the paper was in a pile on the floor, Blaine gasped and Kurt's eyes were wide as saucers.

"Oh my word…." Kurt said, then let out a long woosh of air.

"Holy cow. Just...wow…" Blaine said quietly.

"It seemed the pieces all fell into place here...so we thought it only appropriate…" she trailed off, grabbed Carol's hand and watched their expressions to see how they reacted. Before them was a five foot wide by seven foot tall piece of art that was so unbelievably fantastic that neither man knew how to even put words to it.

"This is absolutely stunning, you guys," Kurt began.

"Spectacular…" Blaine whispered, still staring intently, before raising his hand to run his fingers over tiny pieces and chips of colored tiles. "It's our building...our home," Blaine smiled, turning to hug Cris as he did. "I absolutely love it. Thank you...all of you." Kurt stood, speechless, staring at the artwork.

"We hoped you would. It just seemed that once you moved into this building, your life fell into place, you fell into place, all the little pieces...fell into place...and everything found its rhythm….for both of you, don't you think?"

Kurt couldn't answer so he just nodded. He was too busy studying the massive beauty before him. The artist had to have used thousands upon thousands of tiny pieces and shards of tile, worked into the image and likeness of their home - every color captured, every texture replicated, every window made of iridescent pieces that sparkled in the light. The vantage point was such that he wondered if the photo the artist used was taken from across the street on the roof or perhaps even with a drone. He or she even captured some of their rooftop garden, which made Kurt's heart sing.

"It's unbelievable. I'm in awe…" Kurt finally said. "We can't thank you enough…" he started to say, but got a little choked up, and grabbed for Blaine's hand.

"If you will," Carol began, before stepping up to the artwork, smiling softly as she did so, and removing the rest of the brown paper near the floor. "We gave the artist, Robyn, a vague idea of what we wanted. We told her your story...both of your stories, actually, and she was enamored. We talked for hours over coffee, Cris, Robyn and I, and she took many notes, asking questions and scribbling the answers. In the end, it was her idea to make a mosaic of the building, knowing it held so much love and friendship inside, and I don't think any of us could be more pleased with the outcome. I hope you like it."

"Like it?!" Kurt uttered, eyes wide again. "It's absolutely gorgeous. This is so much more than a wedding gift," he said, shaking his head, reaching out to touch the tiles again.

"It really is beautiful. I can't believe how accurately she captured every detail, right down to the plants on the roof. It's amazing...simply amazing," Blaine breathed out, obviously overwhelmed.

"We're glad you think so," she grinned. "Because there's a lesson here, boys. There's not a single straight edge on any one of these little pieces of tile. Look all you want, but you won't find one. Every piece of tile is broken...every one of them. Yet, when you put it with the other pieces, when you group together similar colors and similar textures, when you put them all together in the appropriate places...they're simply stunning, aren't they? I'd say that's proof positive that...even broken, imperfect pieces can have a beautiful, happy ending...don't you think?"

By now Kurt had picked up on what Cris was implying and his eyes were wet. Blaine squeezed his hand, choked up as well, and both of them turned to hug Cris, Carol and Burt, holding on for a long while.

"It's perfect," Blaine whispered.

"Thank you, all of you. It really is perfect," Kurt reiterated.

"It's as perfect as the two of you are together," Burt said, his own eyes misty. "We're all so very proud of you guys. You deserve every happiness."

"I think we have every happiness already," Blaine said, smiling at Kurt who squeezed his hand and wiped a tear as it slid down his cheek.

"Love you so much," he whispered to Blaine as he tugged him in for a long hug.

---

"We're all packed and ready to head out in the morning," Blaine said as he approached Kurt on their rooftop deck hours later. Kurt was alone, standing at the edge of the building, staring out over the skyline into the distance as the sun set and splashed gorgeous orange and pink across the sky.

"Thank you," he said, smiling as Blaine walked up behind him and wrapped his arms around Kurt's belly.

"You're very welcome. For whatever it was that I did," he laughed.

"For everything, Blaine," Kurt said almost reverently as he placed his own hands over Blaine's on his stomach. "Thank you...for not giving up on me, for your patience when we first met, for coming back to me every time I faltered and panicked. Thank you for understanding what set me off and showing me that I could overcome that. Thank you for loving me the way you do, for accepting me the way that I am, and for always just...being there, encouraging me, wanting the very best for me. I am the man I am today because of your love and your patience, and I'm forever grateful...just...so very grateful for our life and for what we have...and I owe that to you."

"Kurt…" Blaine began, but he was at a loss for words. Repeating them back to Kurt seemed crazy, but he felt so much, just exactly what Kurt had said. "Our life is...it's a mix of what we've both brought into our relationship. I am just as grateful to you for everything you've shown me...how to truly love someone with all my heart, how to share all the things I've bottled up inside for so long about my past, how to reach for the things I want and go for what's important...how to never give up until my goals are achieved. I want those things for us, Kurt...not for myself, but for us. I am who I am because you're in my life, and I'm grateful to you for that, and so many other things. You are…" he paused with a sigh, unsure how to express to Kurt his true feelings.

"You're it for me, Blaine Anderson-Hummel. I'm in this for the long haul, and I know you are as well. I can't wait to live every day as your husband, your cheerleader, your lover. I have never been this content, this happy, this eager to live every single day...and as long as those days are with you, I am...at peace. I love you, Blaine."

"I love you, too, Kurt...more than I can ever express," Blaine said with a squeeze to his husband as he kissed the back of his neck. "Shall we hit the hay so we can make more memories tomorrow on our honeymoon?"

"Why wait until tomorrow for more memories?" Kurt teased, leaning in to kiss Blaine as he turned around.

"Lead the way, husband."

"Forever?" Kurt asked softly.

"Forever," Blaine said with such certainty that there was no room to question it.

Hand in hand they left the rooftop, ready to begin the rest of their lives together.

---

A/N The epilogue is complete and ready to post. I'll give it a few days. This is a long chapter, and if anyone's still out there reading, it may take some time to re-read here and there and recall what's going on.

As always, thank you to Suzanne for her amazing editing skills and for always providing helpful feedback. She's one of a kind, and I'm privileged to have her on my team! Hugs woman, I love ya! :)