5YL Let the Encore Commence

Part 90

Although Blaine's trip home was relatively brief, they tried to make the most of the time they did have before he left for California. While they each wished it would've been longer, this was the shortest break of Blaine's summer schedule for which they were each grateful. Given the time difference, Sebastian was already well into his work day on Thursday by the time Blaine's first radio interview began. Normally he'd try to listen to it, but this time he'd have to wait to listen as he wanted to ensure he was fully prepared fill in for Andrea that evening.

Even though he was working, it didn't mean he wasn't kept in the loop courtesy of Blaine's band and their friends. Each texting him what they found were memorable moments, though Sebastian preferred the pictures Morgan and Talia were sending, knowing little Blaine could possibly say, would surprise him. Though he admittedly got a chuckle out of his response regarding not performing on Saturday, being he had a personal commitment which couldn't be rescheduled. For all the possibilities which were tossed about in-studio, not a one came close to what was actually happening. Getting all these tidbits throughout the day, helped the time pass more quickly for Sebastian, who always felt the day before leaving to join Blaine always dragged.

By the time he was heading for the deposition after grabbing a quick dinner, he couldn't help but smile at the pictures Whitney sent him of Blaine singing in front of the castle. Often as he teased his husband about being his prince, he looked every bit the part at the moment given the setting. Sebastian was in the midst of replying when Tyler approached. "Given that smile you're sporting, let me guess, you're texting Blaine." His words causing Sebastian to look up from his phone.

"Close, it pertains to him." Sebastian told him before finishing. "Cooper's fiancé sent me some pictures and video. He's currently in the middle of a performance. We probably won't talk till later this evening given his schedule for the day. Which actually works out best as it allows me to finish up most of my work before he calls."

"It can't be easy."

"It's easier than it used to be as we now have a better grasp of how things work."

"That's good to hear." Tyler said in response as they headed down the hall. "From what Andrea said, this works out well for you."

"It does, but I know this isn't going to be the norm. Hell, I didn't even tell Blaine as I know how quickly things could change." Sebastian told him. "Last thing I wanted was for things to not work out, and then he's thrown off his game prior to a performance, something I wouldn't want to be responsible for."

"I'm sure his fans appreciate the consideration, especially since he puts on one hell of a show." His response earned an eyebrow raise in response. "Yes, I've seen him in concert. Your husband is insanely talented, and you're not so bad yourself." A response which earned a laugh out of Sebastian. "What can I say, my daughter played the charity single for me."

"Thank you. Now, did your daughter drag you to B's concert, or did you go willingly?"

"I went willingly." Tyler told him. "While I might not necessarily be his key demo graphic, his music transcends."

"Agreed, and I think it's because his music touches something inside people, something they can relate to on some level." Sebastian said to him. "Song writing is therapeutic for him, helps him process things he's been through."

"Speaking of, how is that situation going?"

"It's going. All we can do is enjoy the quiet till he inevitably opens his mouth again." Sebastian had just finished, when they walked into the conference room and he could only shake his head. "Carter."

"Sebastian." Carter replied as he looked over at his associate who could tell the two were at a bit of a loss. "Since when are you handling this case?"

"He's filling in for Andrea." Tyler said in response. "Given this is merely a deposition, unless the two of you are uncomfortable being seated across from one another, there is no issue."

"You knew?" Sebastian questioned as he looked up at him.

"I did. The only reason I didn't say something sooner, was because I didn't want you recusing yourself for no reason. There is no conflict of interest here."

"Are you sure?" Tyler nodded. "Carter, is this an issue for you?"

"No. You?" Sebastian shook his head. "I doubt this is going to be the last time we cross paths, Sebastian."

"Are you implying you don't see a proverbial end to things?" Carter couldn't help but laugh. "Nice to know you're not deluding yourself."

"Nice to see there's no animosity between the two of you." Tyler said as they took their seats.

"There's no animosity, because Carter and I knew one another before he began representing Hummel." Sebastian said. "He's doing his job. He's representing Hummel against the charges brought forth by the court, more so than us, even though we're the subject matter."

"Carter, are you comfortable with this, otherwise…"

"I'm fine, I have no issue with Sebastian filling in for Andrea." Carter said in response. "So, let's go over the perimeters of this meeting, as our client should be here shortly."

While the deposition took almost two hours, it was relatively civil given the nature of the case. Once they finished up, Tyler and the other lawyer left the room leaving Sebastian and Carter to talk. "You know, if this was an issue for you, I would've recused myself."

"I know, but it's as Tyler said, there is no conflict of interest here." Carter replied as he packed up his bag. "You proved yourself today."

"As did you." Sebastian told him. "Must be nice having a client who actually listens, just as it must be nice to now have help."

"You heard?" Yet no sooner, was he shaking his head. "Nevermind, your Dad told you."

"Yes, and said Hummel was his typical charming self. So, Mr. Stevens has a good idea of what you've been dealing with." Sebastian said before checking his phone which had vibrated in his pocket.

"Blaine?"

"No, Cooper, Blaine's…"

"Brother." Carter chimed in. "Congratulate him for me." A response which garnered quite the look from Sebastian. "Hunter told me, thought it might be wise if I had a heads-up. And before you get mad at him, I haven't told anyone, even my wife."

"I'm not mad, as he has a point." Sebastian replied. "We have no idea how he may react, particularly since we don't know how Cooper intends on handling the news which has been kept secret. Neither of them wanted outside noise distracting from their day."

"Much like you and Blaine did."

"Precisely. While Blaine's fan,s and the media have been pretty respective of his, our privacy for the most part, there are still moments where they intrude." Sebastian said. "It's actually one of B's concerns regarding Cooper's wedding."

"Understandable, though it's not as though his brother hasn't garnered quite the following after his latest film."

"So true, but Blaine's concerns are justifiable given things he's experienced." Sebastian told him. "He simply wants for them, what we had. The ability to share the moment with those who matter most to them without the outside noise."

"It's all anyone wants."

"Precisely, though with their careers, there is plenty of unexpected situations one has to be prepared for." Sebastian replied. "I mean, much as B's not a fan of needing a security detail, he knows they are necessary if he wants any semblance of normalcy, which sounds contradictory."

"No, I get it, and there really is no other way to describe it." Carter said to him. "For him, the two of you to have a sense of normalcy, others have to be stopped from intruding on often, simple moments." When Sebastian reacted, Carter smiled. "Hunter might've commented on some situations prior to me taking on Mr. Hummel for a client."

"I'm going to need to thank him for that, as it's something that tends to get lost on people. They focus on everything B's career brings to his, our life, but not what it takes from it. There's a sense of anonymity, we'll never have again."

"If you could change things, would you?"

"Never, as the inconveniences, are nothing in comparison to the happiness B experiences sharing his music." When Carter chuckled, Sebastian cocked his head. "Do I even want to ask, or is your reaction based off of…." Carter smiled before he finished, letting him know he was on the right path. "Figures. Do you get to go home now, or do you have to stick around here a bit longer?"

"I actually get to go home." Carter replied. "You?"

"Same, though I have a bit of work to do when I get there to ensure I'm able to leave when planned tomorrow."

"Then you better get going, as I don't want to be responsible for you not getting out on time." Carter said before slipping his bag over his shoulder. "And Sebastian, should you think things might go sideways, for whatever reason, have your Dad call me. Give me a heads-up."

"Of course, as that way you'll be better equipped to handle it, but hopefully your weekend won't be interrupted."

"I hope so too, but I've learnt whenever Blaine does something of note, to expect a reaction. I wish that wasn't the case."

"Don't we all."

Once he arrived at home, Sebastian didn't waste much time, heading straight up to his office upon his arrival to get to work. He was in the midst of going over his notes from the deposition to ensure they were clear for Andrea, when his phone rang, bringing a smile to his face. "This isn't a bad time, is it?" Blaine asked as he stretched out on the lounger, on his balcony.

"Never." Sebastian replied as he pushed back from his desk to lean back. "How'd the day go?"

"Sebastian, are you…."

"Positive, I was just going over my notes from a deposition I attended." Sebastian told him. "Now, back to my question, or would you prefer something, not so innocent?" Blaine couldn't help but smile, knowing the look that was undoubtedly on his husband's face. "So, which is it?"

"The day was fun, I wish you were there for it."

"I take it fun was had after your performance."

"There was." Blaine said in response. "But we all could've done without some of the reactions when we were spotted. Scott and the guys were kept on their toes, which is unfortunate. It's actually one of the reasons why I left before everyone else."

"Wait, they're…"

"I told them all to stay, enjoy themselves."

"I'm sorry about that." Sebastian replied. "It shouldn't have come to that."

"It wasn't the sole reason." Blaine told him. "Part of me wanted to come back early to talk to you at a decent hour, even if I'm going to be seeing you tomorrow. But before you worry, I'm going to be joining them for a late dinner."

"Good, as you should be enjoying yourself." Sebastian said. "How's your view, as I can hear the ocean?" It was only moments later, did he receive a short video of the view. "I'm jealous."

"If it helps, you'll have the same once you get here. I'd rather be enjoying it with you. How'd the deposition go?"

"Great, after the initial shock." Sebastian said, before quickly following up. "Carter is part of the opposition."

"Sebastian."

"Relax Killer, Tyler said it was alright since it was merely a deposition."

"Was it awkward?"

"Not really, and it allowed us to talk afterward." Sebastian replied. "You should know, Hunter let him know what's going on this weekend, felt it best he knew given Hummel's past behavior."

"Once again, Hunter's looking out for us." Blaine said to him. "I wouldn't have thought of telling him, yet it was the right call. From what I know, Coop doesn't plan on releasing the news till after the weekend. But, his publicist is prepared should anyone stumble upon the ceremony." He continued before taking a sip of his drink. "It really is a beautiful site."

"And when did you have time to see it?"

"I went for a walk on the beach when I got back here. It's in a pretty secluded area."

"Wait, you were able to walk on the beach and, you weren't bothered?" Sebastian teasingly replied.

"Yes, smartass. Honestly, I'm grateful Tess booked us near the water instead of in the city. While the commute is a bit longer, this setting is better suited to help us unwind."

"She knows you, and the others well. Much as you love doing things, you all enjoy some quiet in the midst of the chaos. And you B, have plenty to deal with this trip."

"Exactly. Do you know how hard it is to stay away from my parents right now, I mean, yet if we all got together it could lead to speculation." Blaine told him. "Sure, my parents could time a trip to spend time with both sons, but…"

"You don't have to explain it B, I get it. At least you get to see them tomorrow at rehearsal."

"True, which probably isn't soon enough for my Mom. It was hard for her not coming to see me perform."

"What did she and your Dad do, since Whitney was there?"

"They were with Cooper going over last minute details, something we're all too familiar with. Coop insisted they'd handle it, even though Whitney intended to. He felt she needed a break from having to deal with…"

"All the last minute details, I remember that all too well." Sebastian said to him. "Was she reluctant to relinquish control, like we were?"

"Yes, but was grateful he forced the issue by the time I wrapped. It made her step back, something she needed to do as she was starting to stress out."

"How's Cooper?"

"Good, he's embraced the advice you gave him, thank you."

"I didn't tell him anything you wouldn't have, simply helped him focus on what matters." Sebastian said. "To this day B, no matter what we're dealing with, in the end, we're what matters. The rest is….

"Noise." Blaine chimed in. "I feel the same way. Everything we've dealt with, simply reinforces what matters in life. And you, Sebastian, are the best thing that's ever happened to me."

"Someone is feeling sentimental due to the upcoming nuptials."

"Bas."

"I'm just kidding, B. I feel the same way, as my love for you, and yours for me, puts things in perspective. It's why I do, say the things I do." Sebastian said before swirling his glass, causing the ice cubes to clink against it. "There isn't anything I wouldn't do for you." He then took a sip. "I miss you, which…"

"I miss you, too, even if we only saw one another days ago."

"That's what I was going to say, how'd you know?"

"I could hear it in your voice." Blaine told him. "You don't have many tells, but I know that tone, I'm all too familiar with it."

"B."

"I'm not blaming myself, I promise. Strange as this may sound, it's reassuring to know you can miss me that much in a short time."

"As I've said before, when you're gone, part of me is missing, I won't apologize for it. Yet at the same time, I'm incredibly proud of you and wouldn't want you giving it up. Much as you love me, your career is part of you also and…you know where I'm going, right?"

"I do. How are we going to do this once we have kids?"

"We'll figure it out." Sebastian said rather assuredly. "It might not be easy at first, but, we'll figure it out."

"How can you be so sure?"

"This is us, B. If we want something, we figure out a way to make it work. And you my dear, have surrounded yourself with people who will help make it possible."

"Like usual, you're right, as Vincent has said he'd help me figure out what works for me." Blaine then released a soft breath. "I'd rather have these concerns, than wondering…never mind."

"I'm glad you didn't finish that thought, don't waste your thoughts on wondering what he may do. Should he react, we'll deal with it accordingly, or more precisely, my Dad will or the ADA." Sebastian said to him. "Now, give me an image I can take to bed with me."

"Isn't it a bit early for that?" Blaine replied as he got up from the lounger, intent on sending Sebastian a picture. "Though, in your mind, it's never too early."

"You know me well. So, im…well, well." Sebastian stuttered, as he looked at the picture of Blaine. His white button-up, undone exposing his chest, swimsuit hanging a bit low, ocean in the background. "Not fair."

"Will that get you through the night?"

"Yes, but beware of how I may react upon seeing you tomorrow."

"Ever think that's what I was hoping for." Almost instantly he heard what he thought was a growl. "Like I said, I wish you were here." Blaine told him. "While it might not be a perfect getaway, we can make the most of it."

"Damn straight we will." Sebastian replied, before finishing his glass of scotch. "And much as I hate to say this, I should probably go to bed as I intend to go in early tomorrow."

"Then go, especially if it ensures you getting to me." A response which made Sebastian smile, knowing his early arrival was not only going to be good for him, but for Blaine. "I love you."

"I love you, too B. If I don't talk to you in the morning, I'll see you tomorrow."

"I can't wait." After the call ended, Blaine tossed his phone onto the lounger before leaning against the balcony railing. Easy as it could be to get lost in everything else going on, it only ever took a conversation with Sebastian to help him refocus. Yet knowing how Kurt felt about Cooper, Blaine couldn't help but brace himself for the inevitable outburst. With that knowledge, he decided to take a page out of Hunter's book, and reached back for his phone to make a call. Although he knew it was a bit late, he felt it was worth the risk, and believed they'd understand.

"Hello."

"Mr. Berry, it's Blaine." He said as he looked out onto the ocean. "I didn't wake you, did I?"

"Not at all, Blaine. What can I do for you?" LeRoy asked, as Hiram looked on. "Is everything alright?"

"Yes, at least for the time being." Blaine told him. "I need to ask, did my parents happen to mention what's happening this weekend?"

"You mean, your brother getting married." Blaine confirmed his statement. "They have. Is that why you called?"

"It is, you see, I'm…"

"Afraid it's going to set Kurt off, based on his opinion of Cooper."

"Yes, which is amazing given he used to have a crush on him." Blaine said to him, garnering a laugh. "I don't want Cooper to have to deal with the ramifications of another possible outburst. And before you say it, yes, I know I'm getting ahead of myself. It's just…"

"You want to protect Cooper and Whitney, I understand." LeRoy told him. "What can we do to help?"

"Do either of you still speak with Burt?"

"In passing, as we're trying to stay out of an awkward situation."

"You mean what's going on between him and Carole."

"Correct. She wants things to work, but she's not blindly letting her feelings lead her."

"Good, as she doesn't need to be dragged into all this again." Blaine said. "Does she know about Cooper getting married?"

"Not that it's happening this weekend, as your parents have been rather tight lipped about it. They told us, as we're heading the fundraiser for the foundation this weekend since your parents, and Sebastian's will be in California." LeRoy replied. "Now, what would you like for us to do?"

"Given all that's happened, I don't know why I'm taking a chance, but…" Blaine then took a deep breath. "Never mind, it's not going to make a difference."

"Why can you be so sure, whatever it is?"

"Because Burt hasn't been able to stop a damn thing he's done."

"Not that I'm defending him, but, there's only so much he can do. Kurt is an adult."

"I'm aware of that, yet he hasn't held him accountable. It's always excuse after excuse, regardless of what he's done." Blaine said to him. "I'm sorry for bothering you, just forget I called."

"Blaine."

"I mean it. I'm sorry. Have a nice night, and thank you for taking the lead this weekend, I know my Mom and Victoria appreciate it, as do Sebastian and I. Bye Mr. Berry."

"Bye, Blaine." Before he could say much else, the line went dead, leaving LeRoy to slowly hang up the phone. "He shouldn't have to take on this burden."

"What burden is that?" Hiram asked as he turned off the television.

"The need to protect those he loves, from the actions of another."

"He has the same concerns Kate has, doesn't he?" LeRoy nodded as he sat down beside him. "I'm sure Cooper's aware of what could possibly happen."

"As am I, and given how Cooper's reacted to this whole thing, he's not going to blame his brother, neither would Whitney. They know this is out of his control. Yet, this is Blaine."

"Why did he call?"

"I think he wanted us to reach out to Burt, warn him, but he changed his mind." LeRoy told him. "Mind you, this is an assumption, as he never finished his initial reasoning, he thought better of it."

"He clearly believed it was worth a short given he called us." Hiram said to him.

"Again, I don't know for sure. I'm basing my answer on what he did say. I wish there was something we could do. Kurt's brought so much undo turmoil to people's lives, people we care about. What happened to the boy we knew?"

"That is the question everyone wishes they had an answer for."