5YL Let the Encore Commence

Part 38

For all the questions, their friends had about their impromptu trip to Ohio, those question were clearly going to have to wait, as neither Blaine or Sebastian were answering their phones. Frustrated as Rachel was about being unable to get ahold of either of them, Thad was quick to remind her they'd not only returned, but had other pressing issues on their minds. After a questioning look from her, he simply said the word graduation, for everything to seemingly click. "Keep in mind Rach, their parents are here as well so, having them unreachable isn't really that out of the ordinary." Thad said as she pulled her hair up into a messy bun upon sitting down upon her return home.

"While I know that, Blaine will usually still text me back." She replied before looking over at her phone on the table. "I just don't get why they didn't tell us they were going."

"Probably because they didn't want to have to play twenty questions." Thad told her. "I called Hunter shortly after you told me about the video of them at the Lima Bean, yet even he was shocked they were there. According to him, Sebastian didn't even hint to him he and Blaine intended on going to Ohio, let alone Lima." When she reached for her phone, he shook his head. "Don't try getting ahold of Sam either, as Santana said he's not returning calls either."

"Then clearly there was more to this, visit, which they don't want us to know about."

"Given the picture of Sebastian and Burt, are you really surprised?" Thad told her as she tucked a leg beneath her. "Let alone the one of Sam and Burt, as Burt didn't look happy in either of them."

"The one with Sebastian I understand, yet Sam, he lived with them."

"He's also one of Blaine's best friends, who hasn't been shy about his feelings regarding Hummel because of what he did to Blaine." He reminded her. "Let alone, we don't know what happened at the Lima Bean between them outside of a few random tweets until JBI showed up. All I know, is something clearly pissed Sebastian off for him to finally get in Burt's face that way and for Blaine not to have stopped him." Upon hearing her sigh, Thad reached over and took ahold of her hand. "They're okay Rach."

"How can you be so sure about that after what you just said?" She replied while scooting closer to him, loving the fact he was home and not at the hospital.

"Because I know them, and if something was wrong they wouldn't have looked so carefree when they returned home." He then pulled her up onto his lap. "I hate being out of the loop as much as you do, but they've kept us out of this for a reason."

"I know, doesn't mean I like it."

"Something you've made your feelings clear about, yet we need…"

"To not push, again, I know." She said as she rested her head against his shoulder. "They should be celebrating right now, as not only is Sebastian graduating, but their anniversary is around the corner. Instead, they're still having to deal with Kurt, it's not fair." Thad could only nod at the point before giving her a kiss, as he agreed with her completely. "Do you think we'll be able to get ahold of them tomorrow?"

"Depends, because if I recall correctly, Blaine has tour rehearsal tomorrow and Sebastian has graduation." He told her. "Though he feels it's pointless given he only did it three years ago. Unfortunately, I don't think we're going to get a chance to talk to them about things till Wednesday, and then we'll be competing with family wanting to spend time with them.

"And it's our only chance because they're leaving for vacation early Thursday morning." Rachel chimed in. "So basically, we're not going to find out what happened." She then looked to the side and spotted an envelope. "What's that?"

"It was delivered this afternoon, I completely forgot about it, it's for you." Thad replied before reaching over for it to give to her. Once she had it in hand, she looked at it closely as she wasn't expecting anything, but suddenly a smile crept to her face. "I guess you know what it is."

"I'm hoping I'm right, as this is from Vincent's office." Rachel said before opening it, and then pulling sheet music out.

"Rach, what's going on?"

"It's the music for my duet with Blaine at the benefit." Yet no sooner did she answer, she noticed there was another set of music, along with a sticky note attached denoting it was not only for her, but Thad. Upon looking at it, a singular tear came falling down her cheek before she handed it to him. Before he could even respond, Rachel was reaching for her phone to call Santana, curious to see if she received a mysterious package as well.

Once Thad realized what he was given, he was making calls as well, and they soon learnt a majority of their friends had music delivered to them. "Had Blaine discussed this with you?" Thad asked after getting off the phone with Nick who'd been his last call.

"Not really, but he did say he had an idea which we might learn about at a later date, clearly this is it." Rachel said as she looked at the music. "The note does say, it's up to each individual to decide if they want to take part. What did the guys' say?"

"What do you think?" Thad teased, earning a giggle from her. "Of course, they're going to do it. And those you spoke with?"

"The same." She told him. "I wonder if Sebastian's going to sing."

"After the fuss their duet caused, I honestly don't know, but it wouldn't feel right without him, if that makes sense."

"Completely." She then turned a bit on his lap to look at him. "Speaking of, any word on whether said duet is going to be released?" Thad shook his head. "Are you sure?"

"Yes, but it's not as though I've had ample opportunities to speak with Blaine or Sebastian about it considering everything that's been going on. You best bet is to ask Blaine about it on Tuesday, as his music is something he doesn't mind talking about. Not to mention, he's going to have a bit of explaining to do in regards to this delivery most of us received."

"But Tuesday's Sebastian's day."

"And knowing Sebastian, he'll be happy to put the focus on his husband, especially given what Blaine's done."

While they were wondering what Blaine had up his sleeve, he was actually sitting in his backyard with Sebastian, as their parents cleaned up from dinner. "Have you gone over all this with our Moms?" Sebastian asked as he looked over Blaine's shoulder at his tablet, since he was leaning against him.

"I went over the necessary details, they don't need to know everything." Blaine replied. "The biggest thing, was clearing everything with Vincent, as he needed to get the necessary releases."

"I take it he has."

"Yes, and all necessary documents have been delivered, hence the change in messages from everyone. While it wasn't my intent, I'm grateful their focus is temporarily off our trip to Ohio." Blaine told him. "This is the type of stuff I'd rather be doing."

"Or me." Sebastian whispered into his ear, causing him to look up at him and shake his head. "Don't deny it, you know it's true."

"Wasn't going to deny it, just surprised you said it given we're not alone."

"They can't hear us, plus I'm sure they're having their own little conversation." Sebastian told him while slipping his hand beneath Blaine's shirt. "For the record, I'd rather be focusing on this stuff too, more enjoyable. With that said, have you considered the idea of doing a benefit here in the city as our Moms have a point."

"I have, but I need to discuss it with Vincent, it's another thing to add to my list." Blaine said before making a note of it on his tablet. "I wonder why he's so adamant we meet before you and I go on vacation."

"Probably because you start touring shortly after we return, so an opportunity might not present itself. Not to mention, once we get back we have not only the benefit, but Cooper's bachelor party and wedding."

"So much for downtime." Once he spoke, he felt Sebastian press a kiss to his temple. "These last months flew by Bas."

"I know, and while there seems to be a lot on the schedule, keep in mind for the most part you'll be home during the week, outside of those few random midweek shows." He then kissed him again. "It's not as bad as it seems. Plus, by my count, you have a few weekends off."

"One's for a wedding."

"True, but it's Wes's wedding, meaning we'll actually get to enjoy ourselves."

"I still can't believe I'm working the weekend of Cooper's."

"It ties into Anderson tradition since you worked the day before and after ours, why should he be special." Blaine couldn't help but laugh as Sebastian had a point. "And given his new-found fame, people might be less likely to suspect he's getting married because you're performing. Keep in mind, he and Whitney have been tight-lipped about the actual date, merely saying this summer when asked."

"I just don't want this to become the norm."

"Don't want what to become the norm?" Patrick asked as he made his way outside.

"Having to work during important moments in my family's life." Blaine replied while setting his tablet down, as his Dad sat down across from them.

"I doubt that'll be the case, but it's going to happen." Patrick told him. "Not only for you, but you as well Sebastian given your career path. You simply have to learn how to manage it, something all parents have to learn."

"How'd you know that was what I had on my mind?"

"Call it a hunch, nice to know I was correct." Patrick said before taking a sip of wine. "Also, the two of you have been a bit more open as of late regarding your desire to start a family."

"We have, as we need to take a lot into account before we start the process."

"Meaning you've decided how you want to do it."

"We have." Sebastian replied. "Though that's all we're going to say at the moment, no offense."

"None taken." Patrick assured them as Sebastian looked back inside. "They'll be out shortly." He said, as Sebastian's parents were each on the phone with family, while Kate was getting something from their room. "Any particular reason you're looking for them?"

"This isn't really something we want to talk about at this moment, with so much else going on." Blaine told him. "Plus, I'm sure you know how Mom will react to the news."

"And mine won't be much different. There's simply a lot of things pertaining to it, we're not ready to talk about yet."

"Fair enough." Patrick replied. "I have to say, the two of you look more relaxed than you have in quite some time, it's nice."

"It feels nice." Blaine said to him before glancing back at Sebastian who smiled. "For the first time in what feels like months, the only thing we're thinking about, make us happy."

"Which is all we've ever wanted for the two of you."

"We know, it's all we want too. It makes it easier to focus on things that truly matter to us." Blaine replied before slipping his phone from his pocket. "I need to take this."

"I thought we were going radio silent." Sebastian said as he got up. "B." Once he walked into the house, Sebastian looked at Patrick. "I know he's probably planning something special, but…"

"Sebastian, it's only a couple more days." Patrick assured him.

"Doesn't make it any easier."

"I'm aware of that, yet given everything that's happened, let him spoil you if that's what he's doing."

"If?"

"Don't do that to me Sebastian."

"I'm not, as I'd never expect you to betray B's trust." Sebastian replied before reaching for his glass beside him. "It's just after our trip, I needed this time with him. That must sound selfish."

"It doesn't, but you have to know he wouldn't have taken the call if it wasn't important."

"Which is why I feel selfish." He said before taking a sip. "I know, he wouldn't have, as he's ignored plenty of calls today, as have I. I guess my nerves are a bit fried after our trip."

"Because he was in a room with Kurt, without you?" Sebastian nodded. "It's understandable, even knowing Sam was with him, it's not same."

"Exactly, as I don't know what happened precisely, only what Blaine told me. It's as Kate said when we got home, it's hard not to worry, since I don't trust Hummel."

"Have you told Blaine how you feel?" Patrick asked.

"I have, and he understands it because he doesn't trust him either. Yet he hopes he presented a strong enough stance, he'll finally start behaving like an adult."

"What was Sam's take on the meeting?"

"He said Hummel was stunned by Blaine's proposition as he didn't back down. Actually, said B came off as a bit of a bad ass, excuse my language." Surprisingly enough, Patrick laughed. "Guess you never associated those words with B?"

"I've seen my son box, so I know he has it in him." Patrick told him. "The reason I laughed, is I wish I could've seen Kurt's face given everything he's put Blaine through. It's good knowing he's in control, or in as much control as possible in this situation now."

"I believe he is, I just don't want to get lured into a false sense of security."

"Aren't you the one always telling me not to think the worst?" Blaine said as he rejoined them, before leaning over to give Sebastian a kiss. "I only heard the last bit, so anything else the two of you said is between you." He then looked at his Dad. "Mom needs your help." Patrick nodded, before getting up to head inside, once again leaving the two alone. "Do I want to know what brought that on?"

"Frustration." Sebastian told him as he sat back down beside him. "Everything alright?"

"You mean pertaining to the call?" Sebastian nodded. "It is, and I promise no more interruptions."

"Promise?"

"I promise." Blaine then took ahold of his hand. "Are you sure there isn't anything else on your mind?"

"There is nothing else bothering me that you aren't aware of. I merely let my frustration get the better of me, and luckily your Dad didn't judge me."

"Given everything we've been through, I'm not surprised. We're each entitled to our moments, even if they seem a little misplaced at times."

"Now you're sounding like me."

"What can I say, everything you've said to me has stuck." Blaine told him. "You know what's crazy?"

"Besides our life." His response earning him a smile and a soft chuckle in return. "What's so crazy?"

"That come Saturday, we'll have been married for a year."

"Not crazy at all, it's amazing." Sebastian replied before leaning in for a kiss. "And bad as this sounds, I love that I don't have to share with you anyone that day, since we'll be away."

"It doesn't sound bad at all, as I feel the same way. While I loved being surrounded by our family and friends that day, the moment was all about us."

"Damn right it was, as I only had eyes for you."

"And I, you." Blaine replied, then bowed his head ever so slightly, causing Sebastian to reach forward and caress his cheek. "You've made me happier than I thought was possible Bas. I…" Once he paused, Sebastian saw an all-too-familiar look in his husband's eyes, yet not one that caused him concern. "I love you so much."

"Loving you, is the easiest thing I've ever done." Sebastian said in response. "It wasn't till you showed up that night, I knew what was missing from my life. Nothing, nor any one has ever filled my life the way you do, nor ever will." Just as Blaine was about to speak, Sebastian gently pressed a finger against his lips. "I know children will fill a place in my life, and in my heart, yet it'll be different. And I can't wait to experience all of it with you."

"I thought I was supposed to be the emotional one between the two of us." Blaine told him as he wiped at his eyes.

"What can I say, I have my moments."

"You have more than you think, but I'll keep that our secret."

"Good, as I don't want it ruining my reputation." Sebastian teased. "Any regrets to saying, I do?"

"Not a one. You?"

"Absolutely not." Sebastian told him while pressing his forehead against his. "If we didn't have company, it would be so tempting to take this conversation upstairs to some place a little more comfortable."

"With a little less clothing." Blaine added, to which Sebastian confirmed. "Since I have my appointment before rehearsal, I doubt they'd think twice if we called it a night, a little earlier than normal."

"Now that's something I wouldn't object to, and much as we tend to behave when they're here, there's no need to be celibate."

"No need."

Little did the two realize as they were so focused on one another, they'd missed Kate look out the living room. "They seem closer than usual, everything alright?" She asked Patrick who was seated behind Blaine's piano.

"After dealing with Kurt, it's not unusual for them to focus on one another." He replied. "They've been through more during their relationship/marriage, than anyone should have to. For as worried as we were this could tear them apart, it's made them stronger."

"I know, I just worry." She told him as she placed her hands on his shoulders as he'd begun to play, something he hadn't done in quite some time. "You should play more. I honestly can't recall the last time you did so."

"I can't either, which is why I'm a little rusty." Patrick said. "Are Xavier and Victoria still up in Sebastian's office?"

"Yes, as they're going over last-minute details with their siblings and parents. I truly hope Sebastian's not upset that Blaine went a little overboard."

"He's going to be shocked, but he should also be touched that so many family members came all this way to celebrate his accomplishment." He then tilted his head back enough to give her a kiss. "And much as he might've protested the attention, he deserves it. According to Blaine, our son-in-law is graduating near the top of his class, which is quite the accomplishment given everything he had to deal with while going to school."

"He hadn't told me, yet I'm not surprised to hear it." Kate said to him. "Do you know if Xavier and Victoria know?"

"I don't, but given how Sebastian's downplayed this situation, I doubt he did as he wouldn't want a big deal made of it."

"Much as Blaine doesn't want a big deal made of his success."

"Precisely." Patrick replied, before looking back at her. "Speaking of, have you spoke to Cooper?"

"How did you transition to Cooper in all this?"

"Because he's having to learn how to cope with his new-found success." He told her. "While he's enjoying it, rightfully so, he's admitted it's quite the adjustment."

"I spoke to him earlier due to the drastic time change, he wanted to ensure we had Sebastian's gift with us, which we do. He really wishes he could be here, as does Whitney."

"Sebastian understands, as does Blaine, if anyone understands professional commitments causing them to miss things, it's them."

"True, yet Blaine's been lucky to be able to work his schedule around most things." Kate told him. "I'm still not happy about him performing prior to Cooper's wedding."

"I know, but Cooper understands. And if he had to choose between his little brother playing the night before and after, or missing his big day, there's no question what he'd choose."

"This is the relationship I'd always hoped they'd have." She said before going to sit down on Sebastian's favorite chair from which he'd watch Blaine play. "Are we finally entering a stage where things are going to be, normal?"

"All depends if Kurt took Blaine's words to heart. For if he did, then yes."

"Then I hope whatever Blaine said, got through to him, once and for all."