5YL Let the Encore Commence
Part 45
Although it wasn't unusual for Blaine to have messages waiting for him when he awoke, having one from Vincent piqued his curiosity given he was seeing him that day. Yet the instant he read it, and saw he was requesting Sebastian join him managed to pique it more. So instead of going to take a shower, he leaned over his still sleeping husband to wake him. Given how late they'd stayed up the night before, it took a bit longer than usual, yet once Sebastian rolled onto his back, it didn't take long for him to focus on Blaine. "You do realize if you didn't get enough last night, there are better ways to wake me." His response put a smile on Blaine's face as although he was still waking, showed he wasn't upset by him doing so. "Guess that's not why you woke me." Sebastian followed up as he slowly sat up a bit, then reaching forward to run his fingers through Blaine's untamed curls. "What is it Killer?"
"Vincent would like you to join me." Blaine told him as he braced himself up, extending one arm over Sebastian so he was looking directly at him. "But don't ask why, as he didn't elaborate."
"What could he possibly need to talk to me about?"
"Not sure, but he clearly wants to do it in person." Blaine replied, leaning his head against Sebastian's hand which was still playing with his hair. "Will that be an issue, as I wasn't sure if you made plans with anyone while I was going to be occupied?"
"No, we're good as the only plans we have are for lunch with my cousins." Sebastian said before leaning forward to kiss him. "Good morning."
"Good morning." Blaine responded before kissing him back. "How are you feeling now that the rush of yesterday is over?"
"Extremely loved thanks to you ignoring my request to keep things small."
"So, you're not upset with me?"
"I thought I showed you last night how appreciative I was, do you need a replay?"
"Tempting as that is, no, as I was just making sure knowing I took a big chance."
"It paid off, just don't make a habit of it."
"Understood." Blaine told him. "With that said, care to join me for a shower?"
"Thought you'd never ask."
Before heading off for their shower, Blaine sent a text to Vincent to let him know Sebastian would be joining him as requested. When the message appeared on Vincent's phone, he was in the middle of a conversation with Malcolm, Blaine's producer and sound engineer. "Well, a necessary piece is now in play." Vincent told him. "Now it's simply a matter if this idea will be enough to lure Blaine and Sebastian into a studio."
"Considering Blaine's feelings about this particular song, if it's not extraordinary, it's not going to happen." Malcolm said rather bluntly. "I was in the booth the day Blaine recorded the acoustic version for Sebastian, this isn't just any song to them. Honestly, I'm still shocked they performed it, yet was blown away by how incredible they sounded together. While we have the version that was recorded for their wedding, there was something special about hearing the two of them sing it."
"Because it came from the heart." Vincent replied. "Even in a room at capacity, in that moment, it was only the two of them."
"Certainly not something I can argue with." Malcolm told him. "Now, should they agree, do you want this as the striped down version or full version which was used for their wedding?"
"That's something I believe is best discussed with them."
"Fair enough, but what's your preference?"
"I'd like an acoustic version, as it'll really accentuate how good they sound together. Plus, acoustic numbers are one of Blaine's trademarks, which he does remarkably well. You?"
"Same." Malcolm replied. "Should they agree, as Sebastian's definitely going to have an opinion on this, how soon does the label want this done?"
"The sooner the better, but they're well-aware of the fact they're leaving on vacation tomorrow." Vincent said to him. "Hell, if I had my way I'd get them in the studio today, but that wouldn't be fair to his band."
"Much as Blaine loves getting everything done at once, I could easily record the others while they're gone, that is if they'd be willing to get in the studio today."
"We have an opening?"
"We do. Just remember, even if Blaine and Sebastian cut their tracks today, it won't get finished till they return, as Blaine's going to want final say on the mix."
"Something I'm keenly aware of given how involved he's always been in the process."
"It's because he knows precisely what makes his sound unique." Malcolm said as he leaned forward in his chair. "Honestly, it's nice having an artist in studio who knows exactly what he wants, and knows how to relay that information to me, versus having to make me guess."
"Leery as his label was in the beginning to give him such control, his demo spoke volumes about not only his talent, but his abilities considering he recorded it in his home." Vincent said. "An artist like Blaine, doesn't come around often."
"Tell me something I don't know. The best part about working with him, he's the same person now, as he was the first time you brought him into the studio, he hasn't changed, despite his success."
"That was something I reminded the label of when it came time to present my proposal which keeps all parties happy." Vincent replied. "Surprisingly, it didn't take much for me to convince the label, Blaine's the bigger obstacle in all this."
"Not that I don't understand where you're coming from, I get his side of things as well."
"As do I, which is why I took that into consideration. Let's just hope I know Blaine as well as I believe I do or all of this will be for naught."
It was only a couple hours after Blaine replied, did he and Sebastian make their way into the office. After greeting one another, they took seats across from Vincent as his assistant closed the office door behind her. "I've got to say, we're a bit curious about why Bas needed to be here."
"I had a feeling you would be, but I felt it best you were both here." Vincent replied. "And while we have other business to tend to, I won't leave you hanging. Remember after the premiere I asked about recording You and Me for release."
"I do." Blaine told him. "And, I thought I made my thoughts clear on it."
"You did, but you also said you'd be willing to reconsider if I was able to comeback with a new proposal."
"We're listening, but you know this better be good, otherwise you're wasting our time." Sebastian said as he looked at Blaine. "Or more specifically mine since B was already going to be here."
"I promise you Sebastian, I'm not wasting your time as I feel this new proposal will make a difference." Vincent told him. "By the way, congratulations on graduating."
"Thank you. Now, what's this proposal you have for B?" When Blaine chuckled, Sebastian smiled.
"That we release the single for charity."
"I'm listening." Blaine replied, before glancing over at Sebastian, then refocusing on Vincent.
"Your label is willing to donate the proceeds of the single to your charity." Almost instantly Sebastian saw Blaine lean back in his seat and shake his head subtly. "What is it Blaine?"
"I find it hard to believe they'd be willing to give up the proceeds." Once he spoke, Vincent handed him the contract to look over. After reading it, Blaine handed it to Sebastian as he'd understand the intricacies of it better than he would.
"Think about it Blaine, it's not as though this is the first time they've done something of this nature, as a portion of your merchandise sales go there." His response had Blaine run his fingers through his hair, as Vincent had a point. "This should tell you how much they want your song out there."
"It doesn't help that B made them a ton of money in the last two years." Sebastian chimed in as he continued to read the contract.
"You're right, it doesn't." Vincent replied. "Given this is business, they want a return on their investment." As he spoke, Blaine got up from his seat and started to walk around, thinking as he did. "I know this song has a special place in your hearts, but now that it's out there…"
"We should release a decent version of it, as the copies online are filled with crowd noise." Blaine chimed in. "Guess this is what I get for not keeping it to myself."
"You can still say no B, can't he Vincent?"
"Yes, he can as we're not going to force you two to release something you don't want out there."
"But it already is." Blaine said before taking a cleansing breath. "What do you think Bas, since I'm presuming the reason he's here, you want him singing with me as initially proposed?" Vincent confirmed he was correct. "Bas, what do you think?"
"How about I give the two of you some time to talk in private?" Vincent said as he rose from his chair. "I'll wait outside."
Once he left the office, Sebastian set the contract on the desk, before walking over to Blaine and taking his hands in his. "The final call on this is yours."
"It's your song." Blaine replied as he looked up at him.
"I'm aware of that, but releasing it won't change that." Sebastian assured him. "Nor will I ever forget the moment you first sang it to me. While the lyrics mean the world to me, your personal performance of it, is what's always in my heart. That isn't the version they want, since they want the duet version, leaving my version, as ours." He then leaned forward and pressed a soft kiss to his lips. "I've got to admit, it's a sweet proposal."
"I know, just as I know how lucky I am to have a label and management that's so supportive of me, and what matters to me."
Once Blaine's eyes closed and the looked towards the floor, Sebastian bent down enough to recapture his eyes. "What else is going through that head of yours, talk to me B."
"I don't want another outburst from Kurt, as we know how he feels about the song."
"If he has another outburst, he'll find his ass back in jail as Judge Watkins made it clear, he's done with his childish outbursts." Sebastian reminded him as he walked them back a bit so he could sit on the arm of the chair, and then bringing Blaine closer.
"Hasn't stopped him yet, and I really don't want a song which means so much to us weighed down by his negativity or people trying to dissect his comments."
"Understandable, but his past behavior has worked in our favor, at least according to our friends who keep tabs on your fanbase." Sebastian told him. "Basically, they view him as a disgruntled ex who can't accept you've moved on."
"Still."
"I told you, I'll support you either way, but I feel you're giving him too much power."
"I'm just sick of having to deal with him." Blaine replied, clearly frustrated. "Over and over again, he's inserted himself into the narrative, whether he belongs in it or not."
"Again, he's only making himself look bad." Seeing Blaine agree, had Sebastian release his hands, and slip his arms around him. "I know none of this is easy on you, but you and I know nothing happened between us while you were with him. And while I know your image matters to you, those that know you, know it too. You've been open and honest about your life B, far more than you ever intended, and…"
"I did cheat on him."
"In high school, and I'm still offended you didn't come to me."
"Bas."
"I know, just trying to add a little levity." Sebastian told him before kissing him. "That one mistake, doesn't define you. If things we did in high school defined us, I wouldn't be where I am, and neither would Hunter. Remember, there is a blog out there documenting the fact Hummel cheated on you, while you were married."
"I'd forgotten about that."
"Lucky for you, I haven't, and Kyle was documented at the courthouse. Those that follow your career, have a good idea the type of person your ex is/was."
"How is it you can see this so rationally while I get so frustrated?"
"Because I didn't experience the hell he put you through, and like it or not, certain things are going to be a trigger for you."
"Yet I was able to confront him, it's so messed up."
"You're human B, and someone who has gone through more than anyone ever should have. You're allowed your moments, and those moments don't define you."
"How'd I get so lucky?" Blaine said before leaning in for a kiss. "You really have helped me in ways I'll…" His words were cut off by a kiss from Sebastian. "Why'd you do that?"
"Because you don't have to thank me, it's what one does for the person they love."
"Further proof of how well you know me."
"Just as yesterday was proof of how well you know me." A response which put a genuine smile on Blaine's face. "So, do you need more time to think or are you going to put Vincent out of his misery one way or another?"
"You'll back me, regardless of what I choose, right?"
"As long as the decision is yours and yours alone, not based on what others want or out of fear of how a certain someone may react."
"Just had to get that last reminder in there, didn't you?"
"I wouldn't be me if I hadn't. So?"
"I know what I want to do, and it's my call."
"Good." Sebastian replied, before Blaine leaned in for a kiss. "By the glimmer in your eyes, I think I know what you're going to do."
"I think you do too." Blaine said before turning around to go and get Vincent, to let him know he'd made his decision.
Unsurprisingly, once Vincent rejoined them, he told Blaine that if he was the least bit unsure, he didn't have to have an answer that day. While they clearly appreciated the consideration, after his conversation with Sebastian, Blaine had knew what he wanted to do. "Are you certain?" Vincent asked, clearly pleased, yet not trying to show how happy he was. "I mean, I know what this song means to you."
"Positive, though I need to make something clear." Vincent nodded. "This song, will never be distributed/released with only my vocals. The version with solely me singing, is for Bas and Bas alone."
"It would be best if it's stipulated in his contract." Sebastian added, earning him a bit of a smirk from Blaine.
"That could easily be added, and for what it's worth, I respect your reasoning behind it." Vincent replied. "And for the record, I don't think you're asking too much, nor will your label."
"Are you sure?" Blaine asked.
"I am, especially since you're giving them a version of it, which is all they asked."
"When would you like us to record it?"
"Preferably, I'd love to get you and Sebastian into the studio today to lay down the vocals. Then while the two of you are on vacation, we'll have the others come in and record their parts."
"I want final approval." Upon hearing Vincent laugh, Blaine cocked his head. "Care to tell me what's so funny."
"Just, Malcolm and I discussed that very thing earlier, and fear not, you'll get it."
"Mind me asking why you want us in the studio so soon?" Sebastian inquired.
"Because if possible, the label would like for it to be available the night of the benefit, tie the release with it." Vincent told them. "So, should I let Malcolm know to be expecting you?"
"B, it's up to you as you know how long this takes as I can easily convince my cousins to move lunch a little later."
"Which version, plugged or unplugged?" Blaine asked.
"Your choice, but personally, I say go for unplugged as it's very you."
"Would you mind if we try both, then I can see which I prefer?"
"Not at all, as you get final call." Vincent said in response. "I'll let Malcolm know you're on your way." Blaine looked over at Sebastian who was smiling at him. "Before you guys go, enjoy your trip, you deserve it, especially after the year you've had."
"Thanks." Blaine told him as they got up out of their seats.
"And guys, happy anniversary, albeit a few days early."
"Thanks." Sebastian said in response while slipping his hands in his pockets. "What about the contract stipulation?"
"I'll have legal add it in, and then have the contract messengered over to the studio for Blaine's approval and signature."
"What about Bas, doesn't he have to sign something, a release of sorts?"
"There is a place on the contract for him to sign. If you have any other questions, don't hesitate to ask or call your entertainment lawyer as he was sent a copy, and I'll be sure he's sent a copy of the revision."
"Thank you." Blaine told him. "And, I'll be in to work on the final mix once we return from vacation so it will be available the night of the benefit."
"Figured as much, which is why I didn't bring it up. Now go, so you're not wasting time in the studio when you have family eager to spend time with you." The two smiled before saying their goodbyes and heading on their way.
Once they were in the elevator, Sebastian looked at Blaine. "Would you like me to call her or are you going to do the honors?"
"Would you mind, as I need to call my band and let them know what's going on, I feel it's best if they hear it from me."
"Understandable." Sebastian replied before leaning over to give him a kiss. "She's going to be ecstatic B. You didn't need to do this."
"I know, and I wouldn't have if I didn't feel she'd appreciate it, as for the record, it's a bit boring."
"I don't know about that as I've never been bored watching you do it."
"Tell me again how you feel after being stuck in a booth repeating yourself."
"Gladly, and B." Sebastian said as he took ahold of his hand. "I'm proud of you as you didn't let your fears of what he may do, get the better of you. I know it wasn't easy, but…"
"It was the right thing to do, I know and that won out in the end. Plus, you reminded me of what would happen should he take issue with it." Blaine replied. "It's as my therapist told me, if I let his actions affect my decisions, in a way, I'm continuing to allow him to control me, which is the last thing I want. Though, sometimes are harder than others, especially in this case since you're involved and you're his second favorite target."
"Second?"
"Yes, because in this scenario, I'm his favorite target and he knows going after you, gets to me."
"Being aware of his manipulation, is the first step to combating it."
"I know, but it doesn't always make it easier." Blaine then gave his hand a squeeze. "Your support, means so much to me as I know it can't be easy to deal with me in moments like this."
"The worst part, is seeing you hurt, doubting yourself as you're so strong B."
"In moments like this, I don't feel it at all."
"Well lucky for you, you have a husband who is more than happy to remind you, along with family and friends who know who you are. Much as he might've hurt you, he didn't take the most precious thing from you."
"And what is that?"
"Your big heart, which is my favorite thing about you, as without that, we'd never be where we are."
"Bas."
"I'm serious, and it's not something I take for granted." Sebastian said just as the elevator doors opened, putting a pause to their conversation temporarily. Upon getting into their awaiting car, Sebastian turned to look at him. "This is my last statement on this topic, till we get home, okay?" Blaine nodded. "The fact you are where you are, reinforces how strong you really are, as you easily could've given up, but you didn't. You reclaimed your life B, something only you and you alone were capable of doing."
"I had help."
"True, yet you did the work to get to where you now are, and no one can take that from you." The next thing Sebastian felt, were Blaine's lips on his, and the two shared a rather tender kiss. "Not that you need a reason, butshort note what was that for?"
"For reminding me the best decision I've ever made, was marrying you."
"I feel the same way." Sebastian replied. "Now much as I want to finish this conversation, we've…"
"Got calls to make, I know." Blaine said while taking his phone out of his pocket. "I love you."
"I love you too, and I intend on showing you how much once we're alone."
"Promise?"
"Absolutely!"
Just a short note. Not sure when the next update will be as I had to admit my husband to the hospital over the weekend, and that's where my focus needs to be at the moment. Hopefully it won't be long, as the sooner he's home, the sooner things get back to normal.
