5YL Let the Encore Commence
Part 12
Since Blaine was at the studio early for sound check, it allowed him to fully witness the reaction of the crowd outside when Cooper and the rest of the main cast arrived. For all the charisma Cooper possessed, even Blaine could tell how truly overwhelmed he was by the reaction. In this moment, Blaine was grateful he and Cooper had fixed everything between them, as he only ever wanted the best for him. So being able to be there for his moment, was special in more ways than one and helped him understand how Cooper felt when he proverbially, arrived.
By the time the cast made their way inside, Blaine managed to sneak back into his assigned dressing room so in order not to take attention away from Cooper and the others. "I thought you said Blaine was going to be here." One of Cooper's co-stars asked as they were escorted to a nearby green room.
"He is, as that's his band's gear already set-up on the stage." Cooper told her. "As for where he is, probably in seclusion knowing him as he tends to prefer quiet before performing."
"You're correct." Cooper turned at the sound of the voice and saw Jordan standing in the doorway waiting for them. "He and his band are probably in their dressing room getting ready as they arrived casual this morning given the early hour."
"Jordan, right?" He asked to which she nodded before extending her hand. Once she confirmed he was correct, Cooper introduced her to everyone else. "Might I ask what brought you by as if memory serves me correctly, you usually cover the music scene?"
"You may, and you are correct. But I came to speak with you, as we had a question since this will be a joint interview of sorts." Cooper nodded as the rest of his cast mates walked into the room, leaving him with Jordan. "I know the subject has been broached in other interviews, but given our relationship with Blaine, we wanted to know if you wanted to us ignore the fact the two of you are related." When he softly laughed, she smiled. "That response was similar to Blaine's."
"I'm not surprised given how Blaine's handle this situation." Cooper told her. "No, you do not have to ignore the fact we're related, as it's been brought up in passing. I only ask you don't dwell on the fact, and that's more for him than me."
"May I ask why?"
"He doesn't want to overshadow this moment. And while some might believe that comment would be arrogance on his part, it's the furthest thing from it. While all of us have had parts before, this is our big moment. As for Blaine, his numerous marque awards speak for themselves. My little brother is a star, I know that, just as I'm sure you do." She nodded. "So…"
"He doesn't want to steal your thunder."
"Basically."
"Now that you mentioned it, I remember him saying he was hesitant to take the offer when it was presented to him."
"He was, for reasons that were very Blaine."
"Not surprising, so we will let you and Blaine set the tone."
"I appreciate that, just don't be surprised if at some point he and I begin to banter, as it's part of who we are."
"That's been mentioned, by numerous parties." She told him. "Since he's going on before you guys, do you want to be able to watch him live or would you prefer on a monitor? Because if you want to see him live, I'll make sure someone comes to get you ahead of time."
"Crazy as this sounds, I'd love to watch him play live, as no matter how many times I've already done so, it never gets old."
"Not crazy, as I feel the same way, and I know for a fact Sebastian does too."
"Don't need to be told that twice, as much as I'd love to believe I'm Blaine's biggest fan, I know that goes to Sebastian, though I'm a close second." Once she giggled, he smiled which honestly drew her in which was rare, but should couldn't deny Cooper Anderson had serious charm. After leaving Cooper, Jordan went to go relay his response to the entertainment correspondent to ensure the two were on the same page.
"Care to tell us what that was about?" Cooper's male co-star inquired once he joined them.
"She was simply asking how I wanted mine and Blaine's relationship handled." Cooper replied while reaching for a bottle of water.
"No input from Blaine?" He countered.
"She already spoke with Blaine, who essentially stated he's good with whatever I decide."
"Does it feel weird him finally being part of the publicity tour?" One of the girls asked.
"Actually, it feels right given his theme garnered us plenty of attention."
"Good to hear, as we feel the same way." She told him. "While we know it has to be a bit awkward for you, people asking about him, we're glad he agreed to do it, and then some."
"The only time it's been truly awkward, is when people have attempted to pry too much into Blaine's personal life." Cooper said in response. "The rest of us are pretty open about our lives, but my little brother really enjoys his privacy, for numerous reasons."
"Everyone is different, and so Blaine's entitled to his privacy if that's what he wants. And from what I've seen, his fans seem to respect that, which is nice."
"They do for the most part, which is why he does occasionally post glimpses into his personal life, his life with Sebastian. He feels by doing so, they don't intrude when they see them out and about, but some can't help themselves." Cooper then took a sip. "Much as we all want success and everything that comes with it, I've now got a better idea of the impact fame can have and it does impact things I do."
While the four of them continued to talk, enjoying not having all of their handlers mulling about, allowing them to speak freely. Blaine and his band were finishing up getting ready as they all needed to change for their performance. He was in the midst of thought, when his phone went off on the dressing table with a message from Sebastian.
Knock'em dead Killer! Can't wait to watch each of your performances when I get home. Love you B!
Even though he wasn't with him, Sebastian knew exactly what he needed as Blaine wasn't only playing the theme that morning, but the closing credit song too, one no one knew he'd written. So he knew by the time he made it off stage, he'd have plenty of messages waiting for him and at least a few would need a substantial response. Blaine was still in a bit of a daze when he felt a hand on his shoulder, which caused him to snap his head in response.
"Didn't mean to startle you." Talia said softly as he shook his head.
"It's alright, it's what I get for getting lost in my own thoughts." Blaine replied. "What can I do for you?"
"Morgan found your cufflinks on the counter." Her words caused him to look down and see his cuffs weren't done yet, causing him to sigh. "She would've brought them to you, but Jeff called so, you got me."
"Nothing wrong with that." He told her as he took the cufflinks from her. "I'm not normally this distracted."
"Except whenever you're debuting a new song." She teased as she watched him put his cufflinks on. When he cocked his head, she smiled. "It's true, but it's usually a bit more subtle. Though, the last time you debuted a new song, Sebastian was with us so slightly different circumstances apply. He's a grounding force for you."
"Won't deny that, as it's true. Bas makes all this feel not as big as it really is, which is why I'm not constantly overwhelmed. Not to say the rest of you don't help, you do, more than I can possibly say, but…"
"You don't have to explain yourself to me Blaine, especially when it comes to the place Sebastian has in your heart, your life." Talia told him. "We all saw the changes in you the instant you two reconnected, and you've only gotten strong since. Nothing beats having someone by your side that loves you unconditionally and accepts you for who you are."
"You're going to find that special someone, and they're going to be the lucky one." Shortly after he spoke, she leaned in and kissed him softly on the cheek and then checked to make sure she didn't leave lipstick residue. "I mean it."
"I know, as you're not one to simply tell someone what they hope to hear if you don't mean it. Now, ready to go dazzle the New York faithful once again?"
"Let's do this!" Once the two of them rounded the corner, Morgan whistled in their direction garnering a confused look from Blaine.
"You're lucky Sebastian isn't here as he'd be having to use serious control right now, you look amazing." Morgan told him as they stood before him. After he shook his head, Talia nudged him. "See, she knows I'm right." In response Blaine looked at Talia who confirmed Morgan's words. "And I'm not only talking your outfit, but the messy, yet styled loose curls just…" Yet before she could finish, Vincent made his way into the room, putting a halt to the conversation.
"I must say, you five clean up well."
"We try." Blaine replied. "Anything else we need to know?"
"Not that I can think of, as Jennifer was pretty thorough with you last week, right?" They all nodded. "Then, you're good to go." Vincent finished just as one of the production assistants arrived at the door to escort them to the stage. "Remember, have fun!"
"Never an issue." Blaine said with a wink, for as nervous as he could be, once he stepped foot on stage it all seemed to go away, at least nowadays.
While the five of them were making their way towards the studio towards the side door another assistant went to go get Cooper so he didn't miss out. Yet once they reached their green room learnt not only was Cooper going, but the rest of the cast as they were looking forward to hearing the numbers live as well. They were still getting into position when they heard the crowd erupt as Blaine and his band made their way outside. Cooper's co-stars nudged him as it was impossible to ignore the smile on his face at the reaction his brother was given.
Shortly after Blaine and his band were ready to go, Jordan and the other entertainment correspondent took their spots before the stage. "Now that we're days away from the US premiere of Hidden Agendas here in New York. We couldn't think of a better way to lead into meeting the cast, than a performance of the theme which is storming the charts. Not only written, but performed by one of our favorites and yours, multiple Grammy award winner, Blaine Anderson!"
I know how to hurt
I know how to kill
I know what to show
And what to conceal
I know when to talk
And I know when to touch
No one ever died from wanting too much
No matter how many times Cooper had seen Blaine perform, he could help but get drain in as Blaine lost in himself in what he was singing. Even though this song was written with the movie in mind, there were lyrics that undoubted reflected more of Blaine than he'd initially realized.
The world is not enough
But it is such a perfect place to start, my love
And if you're strong enough
Together we can take the world apart, my love
By the time the song was over, the crowd was cheering loudly after having sung along throughout. As Blaine and his band took their bow, a production assistant escorted Cooper and the others from where they were so they could make their entrance. "Let's hear it for Blaine and his band once more as that was incredible!" Jordan said as she made her way up onto the stage with them causing the crowd to get even louder if that was possible. "I know I said this when you debuted this song, but you truly outdid yourself."
"I'm glad you think so, as this was something new for me." Blaine replied as he handed off his guitar to Justin who'd already removed his.
"I'm not the only one, isn't that right everyone?" When the crowd roared, Blaine ran his fingers through his hair as a bashful smile of sorts crept to his face. "And having seen an early preview of the movie, I've got to say it sets the tone extremely well."
"Good, as that was the intention." While he spoke the crowd erupted again as the cast made it's way out and to their seats which were actually situated before the stage. "And now you can put the focus on them, as that's where it belongs. The cast of Hidden Agendas everyone! Let's hear it for them!"
At Blaine's words, Cooper looked back and shot Blane a wink as he and his band applauded and cheered for them. While the cast basked in the moment, Jordan lowered her microphone as they slowly backed away from his. "Remember, don't go anywhere."
"I won't, as Jennifer made it clear I need to take part even…"
"If you want the focus to be on Cooper." Blaine nodded. "Trust me Blaine, once everyone sees this movie, Cooper's going to be getting plenty of attention as he's amazing in this role."
"That's what I'm hoping for." Blaine replied before removing his ear pieces for the time being. Once he did so, Justin handed him a stool so he could get comfortable while the interview took place.
Shortly after he got settled, Heather, the entertainment correspondent began her interview of the cast. One by one, she introduced them and asked them to give a brief description of their character. Though after introducing Cooper, is was hard to ignore the response he got which earn chuckles from his co-stars. Then when Cooper looked back at Blaine who simply shook his head, it only set the crowd off more. "Guess the crowd is aware of the fact the surname you and Blaine share, isn't merely a coincidence." Heather said to him. "Care to comment on that Cooper?"
"I don't know. Blainers should I comment?" Cooper's response only ignited the crowd further.
"The fact you called me Blainers, I think you sort of gave the connection away." Blaine replied. "By the way, thank you for choosing that nickname verses the other."
"I was warned by your hubby not to use that one or else I'd have to deal with him after the fact."
"I should've known." Blaine said, just as he knew Cooper wouldn't ignore their relationship as he was too proud of him.
"Are the two of you always like this?" Heather asked.
"We have our moments." Cooper told her to which Blaine confirmed. "Though more often than not, this is us."
"With that said, did any of you know the production was going to ask Blaine to write the theme?"
"None of us." One of the girls replied. "We didn't learnt about it till after Blaine submitted his idea to the studio, which they fell in love with for good reason." A comment the crowd promptly cheered in agreement.
"Did any of you feel having Blaine writing the theme would take focus away from the movie?"
"No." The other male lead told her. "By the time they asked him, he'd already won numerous awards, including multiple Grammys. So, we felt truly lucky to have him put his special touch on things. Blaine's an incredible artist as he not only performs, but he writes and composes as well."
"So, no feelings of nepotism at play?"
"Absolutely not." The other female lead stated, a sentiment which was echoed by the others. "The studio went to the hot hand in the music industry, he just happens to be related to Cooper here, it was the right move."
"Cooper, did Blaine talk with you beforehand or does he not discuss business decisions with you?" Heather asked.
"Yes, Blaine called me after he was extend the offer as he didn't want to overstep." Cooper said in response. "I'm one of my brother's biggest fans and he's mine. While I know that might sound cliché, it's true. So it was completely in character for him to call me."
"Blaine, did you base the song off things Cooper had told you or did the studio send you a summary?" Heather inquired, turning to look back at him.
"All of the above actually." Blaine told her. "I had a gist about what the movie was about courtesy of Coop, yet the outline gave me the basis for coming up with the lyrics and setting it to music. Outside of a couple conversations with my brother, the process stayed between me and the studio."
"Now who was the first person to hear the finished product, your husband or your brother?"
"Sebastian, which shouldn't surprise anyone who's followed my career. I've been pretty open about the fact he hears most everything first."
"Most?"
"Yes, as he doesn't get to hear the songs Blaine writes for him first." Cooper chimed in causing plenty of laughter. Easy as it would be to believe they were ignoring the initial reason why the cast was there, fueling Blaine's fears. Handling Blaine and Cooper's relationship in the beginning allowed them to stay focused on the movie throughout the rest of the segment. Instead of trying to squeeze more in before the commercial break, Heather told everyone to stick around as they had more with the cast, plus a little something special for them when they returned.
During the break, Cooper and his co-stars got up and signed autographs for those nearby while Blaine and his band looked on. Upon being told they'd be returning soon, Cooper walked towards the edge of the stage which didn't go unnoticed. "What can I do for you Coop?" Blaine asked as he crouched down at the edge of the stage.
"I just wanted to make sure you were okay, as that didn't necessarily go as I expected."
"Relax, we're all good, I promise." Blaine told him. "I'm sure it made Mom and Dad smile, or at least I hope it will one they see it."
"Me too." Cooper then reached up and ruffled his curls a bit causing him to laugh. "God, I'm glad you ditched the gel."
"I'm glad I did too, plus Bas loves it like this."
"That, I didn't need to know."
"You're ridiculous, go take your seat."
"Fine." Cooper said, ruffling his hair once more before returning to his seat to resume his responsibilities, enjoying the fact Blaine joined them as it added a freshness to something which had become repetitive.
While Heather tried to get them to hint where the four of them would wind up at the end of the movie, none relented, simply saying they needed to see it for themselves to find out. "Can't say I didn't try for you." She told the crowd as during this time Blaine and his band got into position. "Prior to the break we had a special treat for you, I'm sure you know by the movement behind us who's bringing it to you. So Cooper, care to do the honors?"
"Absolutely!" Cooper replied proudly. "Ladies and gentleman, let's hear it once again for my insanely talented brother. Bringing you for the first time, the second song he contributed to our film, You Know My Name!" His introduction was all it took for Todd to countdown and for them to begin.
The rock tone immediately caught everyone's attention as it differed from the main theme, yet drawing you in just the same.
If you take a life do you know what you'll give?
Odds are you won't like what it is
When the storm arrives would you be seen with me
By the merciless eyes of deceit?
I've seen angels fall from blinding heights
But you yourself are nothing so divine
Just next in line
With this being the first time Blaine had performed it live, Cooper really wished Sebastian was there to witness it, as Blaine was fully embracing the moment.
Arm yourself because no-one else here will save you
The odds will betray you
And I will replace you
You can't deny the prize it may never fulfill you
It longs to kill you
Are you willing to die?
The coldest blood runs through my veins
You know my name
If you come inside things will not be the same
When you return to the night
And if you think you've won
You never saw me change
The game that we've all been playing
No matter how many times Cooper would see him perform, he'd never not be amazed by the showman his brother had become, playing a crowd so perfectly. A stark reminder of how different Blaine the performer was, compared to who Blaine was in private. Once the song was over, was positively electric as Blaine bowed before them, smiling proudly as he did so. One of those people cheering the loudest was none other than Cooper, reinforcing his earlier statement of being one of his brother's biggest fans. He doubled up on that, by taking a picture of Blaine on stage and sending it to Sebastian knowing he wished he was there, as did he.
Even though the productions handlers tried to usher them off quickly once Blaine was done, they stood firm to ensure Cooper was able to say good-bye to Blaine before they headed to their next stop. Being made aware of this, Vincent hurried Blaine off the stage, encouraging him to let their techs pack up so he didn't miss Cooper. While the brother clearly wished they had more time to talk, they kept it short knowing they'd have time to catch up later in the week. Yet neither could pass up the opportunity to take a picture together, to capture the moment. After that picture was taken, the publicist which was with the cast, took a picture of them all knowing it was going to be great press. Before ushering them off, Cooper and Blaine managed to grab one more hug.
Once they were gone, Blaine ran his fingers through his hair before looking at his band who were all looking on. "What is it?"
"It's nice seeing you embrace this moment with your brother." Justin told him.
"It feels good." Blaine replied before taking his guitar from their tech. "Hopefully the rest of the week feels the same way."
Songs:
The World is Not Enough, written by: David Arnold / Monty Norman
You Know My Name, written by: Chris Cornell / David Arnold
