5YL Let the Encore Commence

Part 87

Given the texts he'd exchanged with his Dad, Sebastian decided to give him a call on his break to get some needed clarity. While he fully agreed with the ruling, he needed to hear his Dad's take regarding why it was made. On his end, for what he was aware of, Blaine's therapist felt he'd made great strides, yet noted certain matters were probably always going to be triggers to him. Much as he didn't want to bother his Dad, knowing he had plenty of other cases needing his attention, this was a conversation which needed to happen. Luckily when Sebastian placed his call, Xavier had moments prior finished a deposition, so he had time to talk. Xavier admitted he was glad he'd called as he knew Sebastian wasn't one to take a decision at face value.

After reminding his son he wasn't privy to exactly what Judge Watkins took into account, he did his best to walk Sebastian through everything that had occurred. The more questions Sebastian asked, Xavier understood why his son was concerned. "Regardless of what is stated in your law books, matters of this nature vary from case to case." Xavier told him. "For some, it's rather forward, but…"

"Our situation is anything but, straight forward." Sebastian said, which Xavier confirmed. "Let alone, it's a constant reminder to B of what he's overcome."

"In a way, isn't that a good thing?"

"Yes, and no." Sebastian replied. "Yes, in that he knows he's not the same person he was when he left him. No, because it causes him to relive that time again, even if it's only momentarily. You know as well as I do, he was in a really bad place when he left. Part of him still can't forgive himself for waiting so long to leave, to protect himself."

"Is this you projecting, or is it fact?" Xavier asked.

"It's fact. Hard as it may be for some to believe, he does open up about what he's been through, outside of his therapist."

"I don't find it hard to believe, as from the very beginning Blaine's been able to open up to you. Let alone the fact, you're his husband, it makes sense he'd talk to you about what he's feeling/thinking." Xavier said to him. "Based on the conversations I've had with Blaine, this doesn't surprise me. Now, I'm going to give you some advice which I hope you heed."

"Why do I feel I'm not going to like what you're going to tell me?"

"Because you're currently on-guard because of our topic of discussion. Sebastian, the reason lawyers are told not to take on cases they have an emotional stake in, is because it's often hard to separate your head from your heart." Xavier told him. "With you studying for the bar, along with everything else you spent the last three years learning, it's messing with you. In my case, I'm protective of you and Blaine, not only professionally, but personally. Those feelings have made me reassess every move I've made, as I can't let my paternal instincts override my legal instincts."

"I can't ignore what I know or how I feel Dad."

"I'm not asking you too. Understandably, your first instinct is to protect Blaine, and rightfully so. What I'm saying, is don't overthink."

"With everything going through my head, it's easier said than done." Sebastian said to him. "Yet, am I wrong to say you don't want me dissecting every decision, as I don't have all the facts."

"Essentially." Xavier replied. "Had the decision gone Carter's way, it would be more understandable, but it didn't."

"That's part of the problem, as given the facts I'm aware of, Carter had every right to be recused given Hummel's behavior." Sebastian told him. "He's made it nearly impossible for Carter to effectively do his job."

"And that's where it not being a black and white matter comes into play. To put it bluntly, this case is far more complex than it seems. Which is why I feel for Carter, as this is a lot for a first or second year associate to be handling, let alone someone with experience."

"He's rather brilliant."

"So, I've witnessed. Yet in a case of this nature, experience helps. I can't even begin to state off the top of my head the number of cases I've litigated over the years, yet each one has taught me something you can't learn in a classroom. Something you'll soon learn."

"Hell, I've got one heck of a crash course the last few years." A response which caused Xavier to chuckle. "You know it's true."

"I do, yet at the same time your mindset is not of a litigator. I know you've undoubted played out in your head what you'd do, but doing it is another. Let alone how one handles the unexpected."

"You're right, but I'm also aware that my views are skewed. Not only because of B, but because of Hummel."

"Use that same self-awareness to take a step back. I know you're worried that whatever Blaine's therapist told Judge Watkins was the tipping point, but it's not that simple. You haven't been at every hearing Sebastian, he's had a lot of evidence to sort through besides what Blaine's therapist said. And you yourself know, he's not the same person he was when this all began."

"True." Sebastian replied before taking a sip of his coffee. "Hell, I think in some ways he's the strongest he's ever been."

"Based on what Patrick's told me, you're of the same mindset. But back to Judge Watkins, he made the decision he did, in the best interest of those parties involved."

"Which is where Carter lost out."

"I wouldn't necessarily say that, yet…"

"It's complex." Sebastian then glanced at his watch. "I need to get going, thanks for humoring me."

"Sebastian."

"Sorry."

"No apology necessary, I know you're frustrated right now, you simply want this over."

"That's putting it mildly. I really do appreciate you taking time to talk with me."

"Anytime, you know that, son." Xavier told him, looking over at a picture of Sebastian and Blaine on his desk. "Focus on what's ahead for the two of you, let me deal with this."

"I'll try."

"That's all I ask. I love you."

"Love you too. Bye, Dad."

"Bye, Sebastian."

Once Sebastian returned to his desk, he was startled when Andrea knocked on his wall. "And what can I do for you?" Sebastian asked once he turned in his chair to look at her.

"I think it's more, what I can do for you." She told him. "First off, are you okay, as you looked upset when I passed you on the phone?"

"I was talking with my Dad about our case. No need to be concerned."

"Your expression says otherwise."

"It's because I'm frustrated, that's all, but thank you for asking." He said in response. "Honestly, the more hands off we are, the easier it is to deal with."

"I guess some of this is lingering effects of his outburst from when you guys were in Ohio."

"You know about that?" She nodded. "Of course, everyone does. Now, back to why you're here, what do you believe you can do for me?"

"Actually, it's what we can do for each other." Andrea said to him, peaking his interest. "Not to pry, but, is Blaine leaving town next Wednesday or Thursday?"

"Why?"

"I have a scheduling issue and, need someone to cover for me Thursday evening. And…"

"You were wondering if I would do it?" She nodded. "Have you spoken to Tyler about this?"

"I have. In turn, if you cover for me, I will cover your afternoon deposition on Friday afternoon meaning…"

"I can leave earlier." Instantly she smiled. "Done, and for the record, he's leaving on Wednesday as he's got a schedule full of interviews Thursday morning." He said while turning towards his computer to get in touch with Scott regarding changing his flight. "Something which I thought you'd know about, I mean, you are a fan of his." The latter coming off playfully.

"Yes, I'm a fan, but I didn't want to assume." She told him. "I really appreciate this Sebastian."

"I'm glad to help, but it doesn't help it helps me too."

"Which is why I came to you first. I know it's hard having him away, even for short stretches of time."

"It's gotten easier, but it still sucks when he's away, no matter how briefly."

"Are you going to tell him you're going to be able to get there early, or are you going to surprise him?"

"I'm going to surprise him, as god forbid something happens to change thinigs."

"Makes sense. Are you joining him this weekend?"

"No, as I felt it best to stay home to study, be responsible given all the travel next weekend."

"Understandable." She said to him. "I still don't know how you managed graduating with honors, all while joining him on tour."

"B made it clear that should my grades suffer because I was joining him on weekends, he'd ban me."

"Seriously?" He nodded. "Good for him, as while I'm sure he loved having you around, he didn't want those trips hurting you."

"That was precisely his point, so I studied, like a good boy, so that didn't have to happen." He then leaned back in his chair. "Is there anything else I can do for you?"

"Not right now, and again, thank you."

"No, thank you." He retorted, smiling as he did, loving the idea that he could be getting to California earlier than planned. Andrea smiled in response, before heading back to her desk. Once she was gone, Sebastian sent his email to not only Scott, but Tess, and asked each of them not to mention it to Blaine in case things changed once again. After that was taken care of, he took a cleansing breath to refocus himself before getting back to work.

With everything Blaine had going on that day, he happened to be on the field doing a run-thru when Scott received Sebastian's email. Which allowed him to reply, without Blaine wondering what was going on. Once he responded, he did something he rarely does, but sent Sebastian a short video of the rehearsal since he wasn't going to come to the stadium that evening. After speaking with the stadium's sound technician, Blaine made his way over to Kimberly who'd arrived field level mid-song. No sooner was he standing before her, did she reach out and tussle his hair. "It looks good."

"Thank you." Blaine replied. "What brings you down?" He asked as he moved his guitar behind him.

"Was curious how you and Sebastian were doing, as Hunter's been on edge, and he tends to only get like that lately when something's going on with the two of you?"

"Sorry about that."

"Don't be. I know Hunter's demeanor can be a bit off-putting to people, but he's actually got quite the big heart."

"I meant sorry, in that our situation has put him in a mood." Blaine told her. "This time around, while it might be our situation, his mood probably has more to do with Carter, than us. For him, it's a no-win situation."

"While I know you don't know Carter all well, he wouldn't have asked to be recused if he felt he had other options."

"You don't need to explain, I don't blame him for asking one bit. Hopefully, things will get to a point where your family life isn't interrupted by our issues with my ex." At his words, Kimberly reached out and took his hand. "I never wanted this to happen."

"Blaine, no one, and I repeat, no one, blames you for any of this, or Sebastian for that matter." She told him. "And our lives aren't being interrupted. The only thing I wish was different, was that Hunter and Carter could more freely talk, as they are basically sounding boards for one another."

"Considering how Kurt's behaved in court, it's probably something Carter's needed."

"Yes, but he is handling the situation well. He's actually been bouncing ideas off one of the senior partners regarding how to proceed moving forward." When he cocked his eyebrow, she giggled. "I didn't say anything which would be a help to anyone."

"I was merely teasing you, but I'm glad he's got someone to talk as I don't envy the situation he's in."

"Nor does he, you, as he knows this is a frustrating situation, which you and Sebastian simply want to put behind you, once and for all."

"He's right, but until that happens, we take it a day at a time." Blaine told her. "Sure, we have our moments, but for the most part, we're not letting it affect us."

"Good, and Blaine, could I ask you something a bit personal?" He nodded in response. "This needs to stay between us, is that alright?" Again, he nodded. "Hunter's thinking about asking Sebastian to be our baby's Godfather, but…I don't quite know how he feels about kids, and…." She stopped as Blaine smiled. "I guess from your reaction, he likes kids."

"He does, you should see him with his cousins' kids, it's quite adorable."

"Adorable, not quite the word I would imagine being used with Sebastian, but I'll take your word on it."

"It is, and he'd be honored if asked." There was something about his response, which brought made Kimberly smirk. "We're not having that conversation here."

"So, it's been discussed."

"What makes you think that?"

"There wouldn't be a conversation to be had, if, it wasn't in the cards." Although he shook his head, his smile spoke volumes. "All the more reason to look to the future." Blaine nodded. "Now, you're not going to mention what I asked to Sebastian, right?"

"Correct, the first he'll hear of it is from Hunter. And regarding our non-conversation, your husband is in the loop, but he's the only one outside of Xavier."

"Enough said." She replied. "One question, why did you trust me with this, not that I'm not happy you did?"

"Because you know how your husband would react should you share this information."

"Good point." A response which made them laugh. "Like I said, he's protective of those he cares about."

"Not all that different from Sebastian, or me. The biggest difference, is how we all go about it."

"Fair enough." She said to him. "Any particular reason you're not staying for the game tonight?"

"Want to spend the night with Bas, since I leave tomorrow, and the next couple of weeks are a bit, hectic."

"Makes sense, I tend to do the same when we have a road trip coming up. From what Hunter's said, you're only touring this summer, right?"

"Yes. I'm doing a few festivals, but that's it. My label wanted to make sure I stayed in the public eye while working on my next album."

"Strange as this may sound, I understand where they're coming from."

"I do too, but I also let them know it needed to stay confined to weekends for the most part, as I want to be here while Bas prepares for the bar."

"Moral support helps more than people think." Blaine smiled. "Much as I'd rather talk with you, I need to head back inside. But should you need anything between now and game time, don't hesitate to ask."

"Will do." Once she headed back inside, Blaine made his way over to Scott who was simply enjoying the setting. "Logistically, do you think it would be possible for me and Bas to get in some beach time while we're in California?" Scott had to do his best not to react based on his recent email exchange with Sebastian. "I'm asking you since I know security could be an issue, as we can't just drop what we're doing and go?"

"I'd say your best chance of doing so, is before Cooper's wedding as that's the only day which is, yours to do with as you like."

"Aside from standing at my brother's side."

"Yes. Based on where the ceremony is happening, it shouldn't be an issue for the two of you to get a few hours in." Scott told him. "Mind me asking why?"

"Bas has been a bit, stressed, hell, so have I, and it would be nice to just relax a bit."

"Fair enough." Scott replied. "Nothing new has happened, has it?"

"Nothing you need to be aware of." When he crossed his arms, Blaine shook his head. "I'm serious. The only thing anyone needs to be concerned about, is Cooper's wedding which I already talked to Jennifer about at length."

"Is Cooper's publicist releasing an announcement?"

"Yes, and while the only picture they intend on releasing is of the happy couple, we know pictures tend to get out."

"And a picture of you and Sebastian at the wedding, might set off your ex."

"Not only me and Sebastian, but me and Cooper as he takes credit for us fixing our relationship."

"I was not aware of that."

"Yea. While he gave me a gentle nudge, it wasn't as though we weren't working on things prior to his encouragement. Honestly speaking, I think he only wanted me to work things out as he had a crush on him." Scott couldn't help but laugh. "It's true. He even told me that my brother was the most beautiful man in North America."

"No."

"Yep! Though once we got married, Cooper became a bit of a thorn in his side as he was constantly sticking up for me. Made him regret us fixing things."

"Good for your brother."

"Since we fixed our relationship, we haven't looked back." Blaine said in response. "A lot of our problems were caused by our age difference. Others, a clash of personality, only to later learn how alike we really are. Outside of our parents, we really are one another's biggest supports, followed closely by Sebastian and Whitney."

"Of course." Scott told him. "You do recall, I'm meeting with venue security on Thursday in LA, so…"

"Marcus will be in charge, I remember. Do you know when you'll be rejoining us?"

"Before you guys head out for your newly added, concert in the park." The look of relief on Blaine's face didn't go unnoticed. "Are you not looking forward to it?"

"Honestly, no as I was hoping to have the afternoon free, but it is, what it is. All the more reason to need some beach time with Bas."

"Then I will make sure you get it. Have you thought about taking a vacation?"

"Bas is looking at his schedule, but it probably won't happen till after he takes the bar exam early fall. I'd probably feel better, if I didn't have Kurt to deal with."

"Understandable, as it's disconcerting not knowing what might happen next."

"Exactly, and with him, you know there is going to be a next time. It's simply a matter of when."