5YL Let the Encore Commence
Part 42
Keeping true to his word, shortly after leaving the ceremony, Blaine sent a text to not only Rachel, but Thad to let them know they were on their way home. Little did Blaine know, his text wasn't necessary as there were enough paparazzi outside waiting for him and Sebastian, they essentially covered it live. Even though everything was in place, knowing they were on their way gave those Blaine trusted to take care of things, a bit of anxiety. Rachel was in the midst of double-checking the detailed checklist Blaine had left, when Santana came up beside her. "Is there anything you need me or anyone else to do?"
"I think we got everything, but…" She then handed Santana the checklist. "Will you look it over for me, fresh eyes?"
"Of course." Santana said before giggling. "Blaine really left nothing to chance, did he?"
"No, which is why I want to make sure we didn't miss anything." Rachel told her. "This is really important to him."
"I know, as he believes Sebastian deserves the best, particularly after everything he's dealt with while attending school." Santana replied while looking about after reading items on the list.
"Exactly. From what Quinn was saying after reading parts of the commencement program online, Sebastian's even smarter than we realized."
"Oh, I knew he was smart, scarily so." Santana said with a smile, before giving her a playful nudge. "While Columbia doesn't rank its students necessarily, word is Sebastian, as well as Hunter, are in the top two percent of the graduating class."
"Excuse me?"
"Like I said, scary smart, as he was able to pull off straight high A's with everything going on in his and Blaine's life." Santana told her before handing her the list. "Looks good to me." When she saw her gaze down, she slipped her arm around her shoulders. "This is a party Berry, you remember that, right?"
"I do, it's just harder for me to forget everything else that's going on. I don't know how they do it."
"They focus on each other, and what truly matters. Kurt's more like an annoying gnat which won't go away." Her response earning a giggle from Rachel. "That's more like it. And remember, after all this, they'll be going away for their anniversary, celebrating undoubtedly in a very Blaine and Sebastian way, lots of sex." When she giggled again, Santana smiled. "You know it's true, as they still look at one another today, like they did the first time we saw them together."
"A moment which I wish I could go back and change, I was so…"
"Rude." Santana filled in for her rather bluntly, earning a nod. "You were only rude because you thought Sebastian was bad for him, Blaine understood that."
"Yet he was quick to put me in my place, after Thad." This time around it was Santana's turn to giggle. "Who would've imagined he and I would be where we are now, then."
"Not a single person." Santana replied. "Crazy how much our lives have change in the past three years."
"Tell me about it." Rachel said. "Back then, I was essentially an ensemble member, was slowly giving up on getting my shot. I was single, and doubting if I was ever going to find anyone."
"Plus, you still couldn't wrap your head around the fact your friends' marriage imploded so dramatically."
"Not one of my finer moments. I felt like a fool for a long time, heck I still do at times."
"You're not the only one, as basically everyone was fooled, though I never bought Kurt's accusations, especially given how guilty Blaine felt after his one transgression."
"And that is where this conversation is ending." Thad said as he joined them, handing them each a glass of champagne, earning a look from Rachel. "One glass is not going to hurt your voice for tonight." He then leaned over to give her a kiss. "I do not want to hear talk of that person or time again today. This is a party to celebrate Sebastian's accomplishment. Not to mention, none of us know how much his family knows. Don't want Blaine or Sebastian to have to explain themselves, particularly today."
"I hadn't thought of that." Santana said. "At least we're away from everyone."
"I know, but better safe than sorry." Thad replied. "Not to mention, I'm sure Blaine wouldn't hesitate going off on anyone who brought him up today. Today's about Sebastian, and Sebastian alone, with a side of Hunter as we'll really be celebrating his accomplishments this weekend. So, are we on the same page?" Each of the girls confirmed they were, before Thad went to make sure everyone had champagne.
Once they pulled up out front, Sebastian shook his head at the Columbia blue balloons out front of their home. "So much for not drawing attention to ourselves, huh?" Sebastian lovingly teased before leaning down to give Blaine a kiss, as the parents and grandparents exited their car.
"It's not that bad."
"Didn't say it was, just wanted to see how you'd react." Sebastian said before giving him another kiss, making Blaine smile. "Lead the way Killer."
"It would be my pleasure."
With Lily having been the look-out, everyone was standing in wait when Blaine and Sebastian made their entrance. Instead of exclaiming surprise, they yelled congratulations once Sebastian came into view, stopping him in his tracks as the others entered behind them. While seeing their friends wasn't a shock, seeing so many of his family members in attendance was. "Always knew you had it in you." Aurora said as she approached them, then stretching to give him a kiss on the cheek.
"Wha…" Sebastian then glanced down at Blaine who was smiling. "How'd you…" Instead of saying anything else, he simply leaned down and gave Blaine quite the kiss, which earned quite the response from those in attendance. "I'm so going to get you for this."
"There are children present you know." Aurora teased, as there was no denying the undertone in Sebastian's voice.
"Yea, well one just happens to be closer than the others." Sebastian replied while placing his hand on her baby bump. "As outside of you and B, I doubt anyone heard me." He then leaned over to give her a kiss. "How…"
"Go and mingle Sebastian, there are plenty of people here that want to congratulate you." Victoria said as she walked up beside them. "Go, you'll have plenty of time to speak with Blaine about what he did later."
"Did you know about this Mom?"
"Who do you think helped me put it all together." Blaine replied. "Now go do as your Mom said."
"You're coming with me, as I know everyone wants to see you too." Blaine didn't argue, simply followed Sebastian into the room, each accepting a glass of champagne as they did.
They didn't get too far though, as it wasn't long till everyone had their glass of champagne, and Xavier got everyone's attention. "It goes without saying, how extremely proud Victoria and I are of what Sebastian's achieved. From the moment he enrolled at Columbia, he managed to amaze us, as we had a few misgivings about sending him to the city, alone. It wasn't that we didn't know what he was capable of, it was simply about the temptations the city had to offer." A comment which earned a bit of laughter from everyone, and a smile from Sebastian. "Yet even with all that surrounding him, he focused on his studies and exceeded our expectations."
"Thanks Dad!" Sebastian chimed in a bit sarcastically, as he tugged Blaine closer to him.
"You were the one who stated we shouldn't expect perfection, yet that's essentially what you gave us." Xavier replied. "Then once you decided to go to Law School, you made me proud in a way I never expected. Much as I hoped you would follow in my footsteps, we knew ultimately the decision was yours, as you needed to do what you felt was best for you. Although it's going to be a lot of hard work, and will cause you plenty of frustration, don't let those moments cause you to doubt why you chose to go down this path. For as difficult as it can be, it's extremely rewarding, and I'm not talking monetarily, though…"
"It's true." Sebastian teased, to which Xavier nodded. "At least if you stay in the private sector."
"Nice to know where your priorities lie Sebastian." Thad chimed in.
"Speak for yourself Dr. Harwood." Which in turn, Thad simply raised his glass in response. "That's what I thought."
"Nothing to do with helping people, huh Sebastian." Thomas teasingly said.
"Me, never." Sebastian playfully replied. "Afterall, I only think of myself, right?"
"And Blaine." Anastasia added, to which Sebastian couldn't deny.
"Always Blaine." Sebastian said before leaning down to kiss his husband. "Anything else Dad?"
"No, as I said everything else to you earlier today." Xavier replied. "So if everyone would please raise your glass in celebration of Sebastian's graduation of Law School. To Sebastian."
"To Sebastian!" The guests said in response before all taking a sip, before Sebastian and Blaine started to mingle.
"Think it's safe to say Blaine's in the clear." Victoria said as she slipped her arm through Xavier's, as the Grandparents passed by, eager to see everyone.
"Agreed." Xavier replied before looking over at Patrick and Kate. "Now you can rest easy, as Blaine clearly made the right call."
"More like Blaine can rest easy." Kate said. "I can't recall a time he was so nervous before, as he knew he took one hell of a risk."
"One which proved how well he knows Sebastian." Victoria replied. "For it was pretty obvious even yesterday, Blaine made the right call as seeing his Grandparents brought tears to his eyes."
"Our boys have proven time and again, they always have the others best interest at heart, even if it's pushing them out of their comfort zone a bit." Patrick added. "Now, the two of you need to go mingle, while we go check on things down in the kitchen."
"Are you sure?" Victoria asked.
"We're positive." Kate told her. "Go enjoy this moment." Although they were a bit hesitant, Xavier and Victoria did as requested, while Kate and Patrick made their way down to the kitchen. "Don't forget to download all the footage we took today before calling it a night."
"Any particular reason this can't wait till tomorrow?" Patrick asked as they navigated the packed household towards the stairs.
"Because I don't want us to forget, which would lead them to not having it till they return from vacation. So, will you?"
"Of course, I was simply curious to your reasoning behind it." Patrick said.
Once they reached the kitchen, they were a bit surprised to see everything all set in the chafing dishes. "Guess there isn't anything for us to do?" Kate replied as she looked around. "Looks as though everything is ready." She said as she saw the labels on the dishes. "If this is down here, what's upstairs?"
"Hors d'oeuvres." Wes said as he joined them, before opening the cooler on the floor to fill the ice bucket he'd brought down. Once he filled it, he stopped to properly greet the Andersons. "Did they get the peace and quiet Blaine hoped for?" Kate tilted her head. "Sorry, Blaine was afraid paparazzi were going to ruin the moment given the way they've recently covered them."
"Those in attendance were very respectful." Patrick replied.
"Good, as they deserved to enjoy this moment, heck, you all did." Wes replied. "Did I hear correctly, Sebastian graduated with numerous honors?"
"He did, which is incredible considering everything that was going on around them during this time."
"I mentioned the same to Chloe, don't know if I would've been able to do it. Yet time and again, Sebastian's proven himself a force to be reckoned with, as has Blaine."
"Agreed, little did he expect a crash course in law during this time."
"Very true, yet he used it to his advantage. Hopefully he and Blaine won't be back in a courtroom anytime soon."
"That's what we're hoping for, particularly with everything else going on." Kate said, causing Wes to nod. "Speaking of, how's the wedding planning going?"
"Good, though if you want a more exact answer, speak with Chloe as she's more aware of the little things, things that I don't quite get." Wes replied.
"Something I understand all too well. Not only were Blaine and Sebastian grateful that Victoria and I handled the little details, but Cooper's grateful Whitney's got this under control."
"They've had even more to handle than we have, though it's not all to different from what Blaine and Sebastian did."
"Exactly, which is why she and I have spoken often, particularly since Blaine's performing not only the night before, but after." She said. "I think your wedding, will be the first he'll be attending, without performing around it."
"I'm performing the Thursday before." Blaine replied as he entered the kitchen, earning him a look. "What, I've got excellent hearing." He said before opening each of the chafing dishes to take a look at everything.
"You should be with Sebastian." Patrick told him.
"Right now, Bas is holding court as he still can't believe how many people came to celebrate with him, particularly since graduation wasn't on a weekend." Blaine replied, before looking at Wes. "Mom, Dad, would you mind giving me a minute with Wes?"
"Not at all." Patrick said in response before reaching to take the ice bucket from Wes. "Just don't make yourself scarce, as I'm sure Sebastian will be looking for you."
"I won't, and, he knows where I went. I won't be long, promise." Once he spoke, Kate kissed him on the cheek before the two of them left to rejoin the party. "How'd everyone interact while we were at graduation?"
"Sebastian's family is amazing to put it mildly." Wes told him. "While plenty of us crossed paths at the wedding, this gave us a chance to actually talk. You should know, they're extremely grateful you included them in this moment, as they love him so much. The only thing they wish is the two of you weren't leaving for vacation so soon afterwards."
"Those plans were made before I decided to disregard my husband's request to keep things small." Blaine replied. "They'll see us over Christmas."
"Really?"
"Yes, or at least that's the plan right at this moment. It could always change due to Sebastian's schedule at work, so we'll see. Though from what we know, getting away around that time usually isn't too difficult."
"Does this mean you're not performing on New Year's Eve?"
"As of right now, no, and part of me doesn't want to. I want to finally get to spend a normal one with Bas, as I've performed everyone since we've been together. So, we'll see." Blaine replied. "Now, I'm presuming you and the others have spoken regarding the packages you all received."
"You could say that, you could've given us a heads-up." Wes told him. "May I ask what prompted this idea of yours?"
"Does that mean everyone has agreed to take part?"
"Thad has to check his schedule, but other than that, yes. Again, what prompted this."
"I couldn't imagine singing this song with anyone else backing me up." Blaine told him. "The guys in particular, gave me more strength than they could've possibly imagined, not only back at Dalton, but after…" When Blaine's voice cracked, Wes placed his hand on his forearm. "I'm sorry."
"You have no reason to be, I understand." Wes told him. "What about the girls?"
"They had my back, especially after I left him as I was far from being in a good place."
"Makes sense, I must say, we're all honored to be asked as you're in a league of your own now Blaine." When he bowed his head, Wes shook his head. "Sebastian's right, you're too modest for your own good. Now, why do I feel there is something else you wanted to talk about."
"Because you know me well. I was wondering if you'd be able to make a trip to Westerville on my behalf, while you're visiting your parents next week."
"On your behalf?"
"Yes, as I can't think of a better person to do this."
"What about Sam?"
"While Sam could do this, I have a feeling you'd get a better response."
"What do you need me to do?"
"Go to Dalton on Tuesday as the Warblers might need someone to speak on their behalf."
"Excuse me?" Wes then watched as Blaine reached for a nearby laptop, and promptly pulled up the complete score for the number. "That mass backing, is being done by the Warblers and the New Directions. So on Tuesday, the groups are getting together to practice it together once before they do so with the rest of us."
"I take it you're afraid Mr. Schuester will attempt to have the Warblers take a back seat."
"I am. And while I have someone coming in to be an intermediary, I still feel the Warblers need someone a bit older to speak on their behalf. Not that the council isn't capable, it's just…"
"Mr. Schuester is stubborn, I remember." Wes said to him. "I thought they weren't going to take part."
"Initially they weren't, yet he changed his mind. I have a feeling Emma played a part in it, since it's for a good cause." Blaine replied. "So, will you do this for me?"
"Of course, do you mind if I bring Chloe with me?"
"Not at all, just remind her to keep this to herself."
"Not a problem." Wes said in response. "Anything else?"
"No, I think that's all, at least I hope so given my mind's been a bit scattered as of late."
"Understandable given all you've been dealing with. Ready to go rejoin the festivities?"
"Absolutely."
By the time they returned, things weren't all that different from when they left, although it might be a bit louder given all the conversation which were happening. Yet once Sebastian was certain he'd spoke with everyone, he took ahold of Blaine's hand and took him out onto the balcony behind his piano so they could speak in private. "How afraid were you that I was going to snap upon seeing a house full of family?"
"One a scale of one to ten, about an eight." Blaine admitted. "The last thing I wanted to do was upset you, but after seeing you around them the times I had, I couldn't not invite them. They love you, and I know you love them, I…"
"Relax, I'm far from upset, honestly." Sebastian said as he slipped his arms around Blaine's waist. "Much like seeing my Grandparents yesterday, it warmed my heart to see everyone here as I know it was their choice to be here. I mean, you didn't force them to come, did you?" That latter bit made Blaine laugh, which put a smile on Sebastian's face. "I guess for too long I felt it was best I kept my distance, due to the animosity between me and my Uncle Robert. Little did I realize, I was not only hurting myself by staying away, but those that love me as well. And those that couldn't make it, all sent along their best wishes, and said we'd celebrate the next time you and I are abroad. You're the best decision I've ever made Blaine, as not only do you complete me, you gave me back my family, in a way I hadn't realized I'd lost them."
"While I appreciate that, you got your family back."
"Which wouldn't have happened if I wasn't so damn insistent everyone meet you." Sebastian replied as he pulled him closer. "Right now, I wish I had a way with words like you do, as I feel nothing I say can come close to truly relating what you mean to me."
"I only have that way while song writing, otherwise I constantly stumble my way through." Blaine told him. "Hence I've so often put my thoughts into song. I feel the same way about you Sebastian, as the love we share, is unlike anything I thought was possible."
"Look at us, getting all sentimental." Sebastian said before pressing a soft kiss to Blaine's lips. "And it's not even our anniversary yet."
"Nothing wrong with getting a head start." Blaine replied. "I couldn't imagine sharing this life with anyone else, you know that."
"Good, as you're stuck with me, as I take the whole life to death part of this thing very seriously." As he spoke, he pulled Blaine even closer, so that their chests were flush against each other. "I truly believe I fall deeper in love with you every day."
"As do I." Blaine said before pressing up on his toes so they could kiss once again. They were still kissing when Anastasia knocked on the window, getting their attention.
"I'm a little busy right now." Sebastian teased before leaning in for another kiss, only for her to open the door. "What's going on?"
"You need to come in, both of you." She said to them. "Go up to your office Sebastian, as that's where your parents are waiting for you."
"Why do we need to go to my office of all place?"
"Because your Uncle Robert and Aunt Margaret just arrived, that's why." Anastasia replied. "Before you go looking for Thomas, Aurora and your Grandmother are speaking with him, and he looked as surprised as everyone else."
"B, what's going on?"
"I don't know, as your Dad spoke with Maggie, and explained why the invitation was extended to your cousins, but not them. I, wouldn't do that to you Bas, as I know while there has been a bit of a thaw, he's not necessarily someone you'd want here."
"It takes a lot of nerve for him to show up here, to our home."
"Aurora might've said as much to him when she saw him, yet he clearly said something to your Dad for him not to kick him out."
"Or he's simply being an adult." Sebastian said while raking his fingers through his hair. "B, you don't have to come if you don't want to, regardless if our presence has been requested. I mean, you could go show Lily your award stash, would be more enjoyable."
"I already promised her I'd do that later, I'm coming with you Bas."
"Are you sure?"
"Positive, and if he says anything I don't like, I have no issue kicking him out of our home."
"We'll do it together."
