So don't act like it's a bad thing to fall in love with me
'Cause you might fuck around and find your dreams come true, with me
Spent all your time and your money just to find out that my love was free
So don't act like it's a bad thing to fall in love with me, me
It's not a bad thing to fall in love with me, me
Not a Bad Thing by Justin Timberlake
Chapter 19
Monday morning Kurt slowly walked into the Dalton dining hall hoping no one noticed him. He'd spent the entire weekend taking warm baths, resting in bed, alternating between being furious with Blaine, aroused by the memories of his visit, and thinking about the final lines of Blaine's note.
When school is over I will send for you. You will spend the summer with me. I know your father will not approve. I don't care. I expect you to come, Kurt. No discussion.
Kurt had no idea how Blaine thought he was going to convince his father to let him spend the entire summer with him. It had been hard enough talking him into one week of spring break. A week they didn't even get.
Kurt grabbed a waffle, a bowl of fruit and a glass of orange juice. As he headed towards the Warbler's table he saw Andrew watching him with a concerned expression. Kurt quickened his pace and gingerly sat down across from Wes and Trent. Trent eyed him suspiciously.
"Are you okay? You look like you're limping."
"I hurt my foot this weekend. Hit it on my desk. I'm fine."
Kurt took a bite of waffle and tried to ignore the hard stare Wes had fixed on him.
Despite spending most of the weekend in either the bed or the bathtub, Kurt's body still ached from Blaine. He was covered in bruises and his ass was still red and tender to the touch, but Kurt loved it. He loved the lingering feeling of Blaine all over him. Unlike the bruises left on his body after hallway attacks at McKinley, these bruises made him feel desired. Signs of rough, hot passion and possessiveness. A need to make sure everyone knew Kurt belonged to Blaine. Despite his neck being covered in hickeys, Kurt decided not to wear a scarf. He knew Blaine wanted the world to see those hickeys.
And Wes was staring at them with laser-like focus.
Were those made by Blaine, or by Andrew?
Kurt avoided Wes's gaze and instead focused on Nick and Jeff who were excited about the final dance of the year. The final dance was a huge, free for all party that everyone attended because the teachers were tired and tended to turn a blind eye to everything unless they saw blood. The Warblers usually performed at least two songs.
"We should have a few practices to get ready," said Wes. Everyone groaned.
"Oh, come on, Wes," said Nick. "We never practice for this performance. We just do whatever song Blaine feels like singing."
"Well Blaine isn't here." Wes looked at Kurt. Or is he? Or are you fooling around with Andrew? God, please don't be fooling around with Andrew. Blaine will murder him.
Suddenly all eyes were on Kurt. He shook his head.
"I don't think he's coming back for the dance. He hasn't mentioned it."
Wes leaned forward and lowered his voice. "So, you've talked to him?" Or seen him?
"Um...briefly."
All the other boys leaned in. "Is he coming back next year?" Trent's voice was full of hope.
"I…I really don't know. I guess it depends on...I don't know."
The boys nodded sadly. "But he has to come back. It's senior year. He's gotta graduate," said David.
Kurt suddenly felt angry.
Why was he just as clueless about his boyfriend's future as his friends? Shouldn't he know more?
He came. He fucked. He left.
As they headed to class. Wes hung back and called out to Kurt. They waited until everyone was gone.
"So, when did you see him?"
Kurt decided not to lie.
"Friday night."
"Is he okay?"
"I guess. He seems different. More serious and intense."
Wes nodded. "I can imagine. Did he say what he's been up to? I mean…anything you're allowed to share?"
Kurt felt angry again. He had absolutely no idea what Blaine had been up to. "No. No, he didn't. He didn't say much of anything."
Wes couldn't help but smile. "I can see that."
Kurt blushed a little, his hand instinctively touching his neck. "Is it that bad?"
"No, but you definitely didn't have those last week."
They started walking to class until Kurt blurted out, "He wants me to spend the summer with him."
Wes stopped walking. "Really? Are you going to?"
"I don't know. My dad will never go for it, but Blaine's being pretty insistent."
Wes studied Kurt's face for a moment.
"Listen, Kurt. I know you love him and he loves you, but you need to be careful."
Kurt nodded. "I know. With what happened to his dad I can't help but worry if he's next. I know I should be nervous about staying at his house, but I really wanna be with him. I miss him so much."
Wes shook his head. "That's not what I meant."
"Then what?"
"You need to be careful with Blaine. I haven't seen him, or talked to him since he left, but I've known him for years, and what you're seeing now…the intensity, the seriousness, the insistence, it's always been there. Just smoother and covered by his charming smile and great voice. I love Blaine, but at the end of the day he's an Anderson, and Andersons are dangerous, selfish people. They want what they want, and look out if you get in their way."
Kurt was shocked into silence. He opened his mouth but had no idea what to say. He couldn't really deny what Wes was saying, but he was shocked that Wes was so accurate.
"But, how do you know that? Blaine's never been like that at school."
"Like I said. Smoother. Hidden. I love Blaine, but I've always known there was more to him than the dapper charm."
"So you think Blaine has always been…dangerous?"
"No, not dangerous. Just capable of being dangerous."
"But…why would you think that? How could you think that?"
"Like I said. It's always been there."
Blaine and Telio sat in the library counting and recording stacks of money that had been dropped off by several crew chiefs. It was a task usually completed by Luther and the now deceased Carlisle. Blaine decided he should do it for a while in order to get a clear understanding of just how much money his family made.
As the bills sped through the money counter, growing from thousands, to tens of thousands, to hundreds of thousands, Blaine grew increasingly shocked.
This was a lot of money.
And all in cash.
Damn.
Telio smiled at Blaine's amazed expression.
"You look like you just realized you're rich."
"I guess I never thought about it before."
"Figures. When you've always had it, you never think about it."
Once the money was counted and recorded, Blaine took $10,000 and handed it to Telio.
"What's this for?"
"I don't know. Give some to Alicia and keep the rest for yourself."
"Give some to Alicia?"
"I gave Kurt money to buy new clothes. Wouldn't Alicia love to go shopping?"
"I'm not gonna see her to give it to her."
"You could see her."
Telio shook his head.
"Stop trying to be some kind of saint and call your girlfriend! She's probably worried sick about you, or worse she's moved on to some other guy."
Telio ignored the jealous punch in his stomach. "She should move on to some other guy. Someone safer. Less complicated."
"You don't mean that."
"Yes I do." At least I want to.
Blaine rolled his eyes and opened his laptop. He looked at the clock and checked the tracking site. After confirming Kurt's location he went to Dalton's student site and logged in. He scrolled through the announcements.
"Hey! The last Dalton-Crawford Dance is this Friday." Blaine looked at Telio with a hopeful expression. Telio shook his head.
"No."
"Aw, come on. No one will come after us there. It would be great to surprise Kurt and I bet Alicia will be there."
"Blaine, we got shit to do. High school is over for us."
"It doesn't have to be. Not yet anyway. Come on. One last dance. A farewell to Dalton. Please?"
"I'll think about it."
Andrew kept staring at Kurt. They were sitting across from one another in the Dalton library. Kurt was focused on his history book, determined to finish the chapter. Andrew was supposed to be studying, but he kept looking at Kurt, trying to build up his nerve.
It's just as friends. Not a date or anything. Just friends. Why are you making this such a big deal? Just ask him.
"Uh, Kurt?" Kurt looked up. Andrew took a breath.
"Um…so…I was wondering…um…are you planning to go to the dance on Friday?"
Kurt shrugged. "I don't know. Maybe. I hadn't decided. I think I have to go because the Warblers are supposed to perform."
"Oh. Okay. Well…um…would you…maybe like to go with me? Just as friends of course."
"Oh." Kurt was surprised. "Um…I don't know."
"Is Blaine coming back for the dance?"
Kurt frowned. "I don't think so."
Andrew relaxed. "Okay, so we could go as friends."
Kurt's fingers moved to his bracelet, rubbing it as he thought about Andrew's offer.
It's just as friends.
But deep down Kurt knew better.
He knew Andrew liked him. Would he be leading him on by saying yes, despite his claim of just friends?
Blaine will have a fit.
So what? It's not fair. I deserve to have some fun. Spring Break was awful. I've been lonely and missing him for weeks, and then what does he do? He shows up, fucks me and leaves!
"Andrew, you know that being friends is all we'll ever be, right?"
"Can I ask you something?"
"Of course."
"If you weren't with Blaine…would I have a shot with you?"
Kurt was flattered by the question.
And he felt a little guilty.
But he decided to be honest.
"Yeah, I think you would, but I'm with Blaine so that's not going to happen."
Andrew nodded. "Okay. I'll settle for that. So, you'll go with me?"
Kurt smiled. "Yes."
Sammy Avalon boldly entered the headquarters of Anderson Construction. He moved with a confidence and swagger that came from knowing who he was, what he was, and that the world feared him.
"Good afternoon, sir. How may I help you?"
"I'm here to see Luther."
"Is he expecting you?"
"Nope."
"Okay. If you'll take a seat I'll see if he's in."
Sammy smiled and took a few steps back. He didn't miss the four guards who suddenly appeared in the lobby. He grinned at them and waited.
The receptionist hung up the phone and stood up. "Sir, if you'll follow me."
She took him to a small conference room at the end of the hall. Luther was waiting for him, his eyes hard and cold. The desire to kill itched his skin.
"What do you want?"
"Well hello, Luther. Nice to see you again. How are things?"
"What do you want?"
Sammy grinned. "I'm sorry. I'm sure you're very busy seeing how Mario is ill and all. It's a good thing you have nothing and…no one to occupy your time."
Luther clenched his fists. He couldn't kill him here, but soon. Very soon.
"This is the last time I'll ask. What do you want?"
"Mr. Chartussi would like to speak with Blaine. Monday evening. Dinner at…"
Luther interrupted. "We'll choose the time and place and let you know. Assuming Blaine's interested."
Sammy shrugged. "Fine, but it would be in his best interests to be interested. We're offering him a way out. He's shouldering far too much responsibility for someone so young. We'd hate to see him get hurt."
"Is that all?"
"Yeah, that's it."
"Then get out."
x-x-x
"I'm not interested."
"Blaine…"
"Not interested! He tries to kill my father, tries to kill me, and now he wants to break bread? Fuck him!"
After Sammy left Luther downed two glasses of bourbon and then headed to the compound to deliver the message to Blaine.
"You should at least meet with him to see what he wants. We might be able…"
"I don't give a fuck what he wants! It's about what I want, and I want him dead!"
"Blaine, the other families expect you to at least try to avoid a war."
Blaine shook his head. "No! The other families expect me to protect our interests and theirs, to mediate their bullshit disagreements, and to keep the money flowing. I've already made my intentions clear. I want Chartussi dead! End of discussion!"
"There are rules, Blaine. Customs. Protocols. You know that! Just have the damn meeting and then you can bomb the hell out of him!"
Blaine looked at Luther long and hard. Used to this from Mario, Luther simply stared back and waited. Blaine's thoughts took a suspicious, paranoid turn.
"Why are you so anxious for me to have this meeting?"
"Because it's custom. Meeting requests are not denied, especially between rival families on the verge of war. You have to at least look like you're trying to keep the peace."
Blaine nodded slowly. "Uh huh, I see. Because customs and rules are so important to Chartussi. He respects all the rules."
Blaine slowly circled Luther. "I find it interesting that a man whose girlfriend was killed by a man who couldn't give a fuck about rules suddenly wants me to respect the rules when it comes to that same man."
Blaine pulled his gun and pointed it at Luther.
Luther's eyes widened. "What are you doing?"
"What are you doing, Luther? Are you setting me up?"
"What? How could you think that? You're my godson for fucks sake! Your father has been my best friend since we were 15!"
"Then why are you so eager for me to meet with Chartussi?"
"I told you, it's custom! Plus, I promised your mother!"
"What?"
"I promised your mother I would try to get you to avoid a war. She's scared, Blaine. She just watched her husband get gunned down, her eldest son hasn't been seen for weeks. She's terrified of losing you."
Blaine lowered the gun. What the hell am I doing?
"I'm sorry."
Luther glowered at him. "Don't you ever fucking point a gun at me! Have you lost your fucking mind?"
Telio and Elian walked in. "What's going on?"
Luther just stood there, shocked and angry.
"Chartussi wants a meeting," said Blaine.
Telio nodded. "Expected. When and where?"
Blaine scowled at him angrily. "Why is everyone immediately down with this bullshit?"
"Because it's tradition. We go to the meeting, see what he has to say, and then attack a week later."
"Why not blow him away at the meeting?"
Telio shook his head. "We'll never make it out alive."
Blaine threw himself into a chair. He stared at the floor for several minutes, head down, fingers tangled in his hair. Finally he looked apologetically at Luther.
"Okay. Fine. I'll meet with him."
"You'd better get your shit together, Blaine. You pull a gun on Chartussi like you just did to me and we'll all end up dead."
"I'm sorry. I don't know what got into me. It won't happen again."
"It better not." Luther left.
Telio sat down next to Blaine. "What's going on with you? What's wrong?"
Blaine sighed and shook his head. "I don't know. I just got paranoid all of sudden. I know Luther would never hurt me. I just panicked for some reason. I just…I'm tired, and…I can't wait for school to get out so Kurt can move in. I'll feel better when he's here."
"What are you talking about?"
"Kurt's moving in when school's out."
Elian's head snapped up.
"What?"
"My boyfriend Kurt is moving in when school's out."
Telio's mouth fell open. "What? Are you kidding me? Does Kurt know this?"
"I told him."
"You told him? Did he agree?"
"He doesn't have a choice."
"Blaine…do you really think his father is going to allow him to live here for the summer?"
"I don't care about his father."
"But I bet Kurt does."
"Kurt will do as I say."
"Wow. Really, Blaine?"
"Yes, really, Telio. Kurt knows he belongs to me. His place is with me."
Telio shook his head. "His father is never going to let him come here."
Blaine expression turned dark and threatening. "A father has tried to stand in the way of an Anderson before. Didn't work then, won't work now."
By Friday Kurt understood why the Dalton teaching staff paid little to no attention at the final dance of the year. They were exhausted from practical jokes, fighting for attention in class, and dealing with a student body that, despite final exams in a week, was over and done with school. The usual decorum and formality that ruled the halls was gone. Everyone could feel the school year coming to an end and they couldn't contain their excitement.
Kurt still hadn't approached the subject of summer with his dad. Burt had called a few days ago and left a message asking what day Kurt would be finished. Kurt hadn't returned the call. He hadn't heard from Blaine, but he was sure it was just a matter of time. The impending showdown between the two men he loved was keeping him up at night.
On Friday he decided to forget about his father and summer vacation and focus on the dance. He was determined to celebrate the end of his first year at Dalton by having a great time, and singing his heart out at his last performance until the fall.
Wes had insisted on at least one planning practice that week. Kurt thought it was downright embarrassing how long it took them to figure out songs they could perform without Blaine. They finally settled on "Uptown Girl" with Nick as the lead and "Raise Your Glass," as an ensemble.
Classes let out early on Friday so Kurt spent the entire afternoon getting ready. He pretended he was going with Blaine. He chose tight black jeans with a wild and colorful designer shirt that hung off one shoulder. He meticulously styled his hair, allowing a few locks to curl and hang across his forehead. He checked and rechecked his outfit until there was a knock on the door.
He opened it to find a brand new Andrew.
Andrew's curly blonde hair had been cut short and styled. He was wearing a green shirt that brought out his dark green eyes. His black pants were pressed and pleated, and his shoes had been polished to perfection. Overnight he had morphed into an older, handsome, incredibly sexy man. Kurt was a bit speechless.
"Hi."
"Hi. Wow. Andrew…you look great."
"Thanks. I wanted to look worthy of escorting you to a dance."
Kurt laughed. Andrew ran his eyes up and down Kurt's body.
"You look great too. You always look great." Andrew paused for a moment. "You really are attractive, Kurt."
Kurt smiled, his cheeks turning slightly pink.
"Thank you."
x-x-x
This dance definitely felt different from all the others. The air was filled with a hyper, contagious energy. Everyone was ready to let loose and let go. Kurt couldn't spot one teacher. He had a feeling they were all back at the main building drinking with the headmaster.
Everyone was on the dance floor. Even the usual wallflowers found a spot to dance awkwardly and laugh at each other. The lack of supervision allowed for plenty of grinding and making out. Kurt smiled as he watched Carl and Jerome kissing while a few feet away David was kissing his new girlfriend, Jen. Something that could never take place at McKinley without sparking violence. At times like this, Kurt felt Dalton really was a secret heaven on earth.
At first he and Andrew danced as part of a larger group of boys jumping around and acting goofy, but soon it was just the two of them moving and gyrating in front of each other, careful to keep a certain distance between them. Suddenly the music slowed and Andrew wrapped his arm around Kurt's waist and pulled him closer. Kurt tensed. Andrew smiled and stepped back a bit.
"Relax. We can dance like awkward sixth graders. I'll put my hands here," Andrew placed his hands on Kurt's waist. "And you put your hands on my shoulders, and we'll keep a desk length between us while we sway, 1-2, 1-2 to the music."
Kurt laughed and placed his hands on Andrew's shoulders.
Blaine and Telio entered the hall silently and unnoticed. As he looked around the room at everyone dancing and laughing, Blaine was struck by how much his life had changed.
A month and a half ago he was one of them.
Now he was the leader of a criminal empire.
They stood in the doorway scanning the crowd. Telio spotted Alicia dancing with a redheaded kid named Mike. He ignored the jealous boil in the pit of his stomach.
It took Blaine longer to spot Kurt. It wasn't until the song changed and a few couples left the floor that he saw him.
Dancing with fucking Andrew.
And Andrew had his fucking hands on Kurt's waist.
And just what the actual fuck was going on?
Telio followed Blaine's venomous stare and laid a hand on his shoulder.
"Relax. He didn't know you were coming."
"That doesn't matter. He should know not to allow anyone to touch him. Especially that asshole."
"Well either calm your shit and go cut in quietly, or let's get out of here."
Blaine started making his way across the crowded dance floor, his eyes fixed on Kurt. He was almost there when…
"Blaine!"
Trent's eyes lit up. He ran over and threw his arms around Blaine's neck. Very quickly Blaine was surrounded by happy Warblers hugging him and bouncing excitedly.
"Man, we've missed you."
"I knew you would come back!"
"Are you gonna perform with us?"
"Why didn't Kurt tell us you were coming?"
Blaine immediately turned on the charm, smiling and happily greeting his friends. Wes's looked around nervously for Kurt.
Hearing the commotion Kurt looked over and spotted Blaine. Without a thought he dropped his hands from Andrew's shoulders and started towards him as if pulled by an invisible force. Blaine saw him and pulled away from the Warblers, his initial anger melting as he approached his sun. They came together, arms wrapping tightly around the other. In that moment they each exhaled as if they'd been holding their breath for days. Everyone around them was forgotten as they relaxed into each other and began to sway to the song.
"What are you doing here?"
"I came to surprise you and apparently not a moment too soon. I'm gonna beat the shit out of Andrew." Blaine planted soft kisses along Kurt's jawline. Kurt sighed and closed his eyes, head tilting back to give Blaine more access.
"Calm down, psycho. Andrew is just a friend."
"Yeah, I bet he's just a friend. A friend who can't seem to keep his fucking hands to himself."
Blaine pulled back a little and placed his hand on Kurt's chest. He slid his hand up to Kurt's neck, settling right under his chin. He squeezed slightly.
"I don't like people touching what belongs to me."
"He didn't touch me. We were just dancing."
Blaine pulled Kurt close and started kissing along his neck again. He licked the shell of his ear and whispered, "Apparently I didn't fuck you hard enough last time. I should have left you unable to walk."
Kurt ignored the slight stirring deep below his belly.
"No, you should have talked to me and told me you were coming."
The song ended and the two stood staring into each other's eyes. Kurt could feel himself getting lost. He blinked and reminded himself that he was mad.
"I'm not your $5,000 a night whore, Blaine. After weeks of not hearing from you, you show up, fuck me and leave. That's not fair."
Blaine leaned down to kiss Kurt's bare shoulder. He kissed up his shoulder to his neck and nuzzled under his ear.
"No, you're not my $5,000 a night whore. You're priceless. My gorgeous, precious, priceless whore who I love more than anything and can't live without." Before Kurt could speak Blaine locked their mouths together. Kurt cursed his body for responding to Blaine's words and his tongue. He fought to keep from losing himself completely.
"Blaine, we need to talk."
Blaine was about to respond when Trent and David came over.
"Hey, sorry to interrupt, but are you gonna sing with us?"
Blaine was incapable of turning down a performance opportunity.
"Uptown Girl" was quickly replaced with "Teenage Dream" followed by "Raise Your Glass."
Telio stood in the back of the room as the Warblers took to the stage.
Waiting.
The moment Alicia realized Blaine was performing, she whirled around and began frantically searching the room. She pushed her way through the crowd towards the back until she saw him.
Damn. Was it really possible for him to get any hotter?
Telio was wearing dark blue jeans, a tight black t-shirt that accentuated every ripple of his muscles, and black boots.
Alicia wanted to stay furious with him. She'd been angry, sad, mad and everything in between for weeks. But now as she stared at him she only felt relief.
Telio watched her walking towards him.
Blaine was right.
He was stupid not to contact her.
She stopped in front of him, her eyes searching his face with uncertainty.
"You're here."
Telio nodded. "Yeah, I'm here." He reached for her, but she stepped back and shot daggers at him with her eyes.
Shit. She's pissed.
"Why didn't you call me?"
"I couldn't. We had to go into hiding."
Alicia looked like she was thinking it over. Telio decided he'd better apologize. Girls liked that, right?
"I'm sorry. It's not like I didn't wanna call you. I did. I thought about you every day. All the time. But I couldn't. It wasn't safe for me to contact you, or anybody. For my protection and yours."
Alicia crossed her arms. "I was really mad at you for not contacting me to at least let me know you were alive. I figured it had something to do with Blaine and everything, but still…I was really mad, and scared, and sad, but mostly mad."
"Are you still mad?"
"No. I get it. I guess. Besides, I don't wanna leave mad."
"Leave?"
"I'm going to London."
"What?"
"I'm going to London for the summer. My father's doing a two year medical fellowship. We're all going to London. My mom and I will come back in the fall for school, but I'll be gone all summer."
Telio felt disappointed. It wasn't like he'd planned on seeing her during the summer, but still.
"When do you leave?"
"In two weeks. My dad's already there."
A beat passed and Telio pulled her to him. This time she let him. She also let him kiss her breathless.
"I wanna spend the night with you before I leave."
Telio was surprised. Guess the apology worked. "How?"
Alicia smiled mischievously. "If I come up with a plan, will you meet me?"
Was she kidding?
"Yeah, I'll meet you. Anytime. Anywhere."
x-x-x
Kurt and Blaine spent the rest of the night on the dance floor, both silently agreeing that they should focus on having fun. They alternated between dancing around with the Warblers and with each other. Kurt enjoyed teasing Blaine by seductively grinding against him and then pulling away to twirl, wiggle his ass, and shoot him sexy looks. Blaine grabbed Kurt's waist and pulled him close, pressing his very hard cock against Kurt's ass. Kurt put his arms up and gyrated his hips. Despite the loud music he could hear Blaine's groan. He thrilled when Blaine dug his fingers into his hips, pressing him tighter against his cock. Kurt let his head fall back and lost himself in the music and the feel and scent of Blaine. It was the most relaxed and free he'd felt in a long time.
The girls took a long time to board the buses back to Crawford. Students hung around outside hugging and kissing one another, promising to keep in touch over the summer. Blaine held Kurt's hand while they looked for Telio and Alicia, finally spying them over by the corner of the building kissing feverishly, their hands roaming all over one another. Kurt sighed happily.
"I'm so glad he has someone."
Blaine tightened his grip on Kurt's hand. "Yeah, and I'm so glad I have you. We're going to have a great summer."
Kurt said nothing as nerves rippled through his stomach.
Telio and Alicia finally separated when one of the Crawford teachers walked over and tapped Alicia on the shoulder with a stern frown. Telio walked her to the bus.
"So, I'll call you when I have it figured out," said Alicia.
"Text me instead. Just text me the words…Crawford, and I'll call you."
"Okay."
All the boys waited for the buses to pull off before beginning the walk back to the dorms. Telio looked at Blaine.
"I assume you're spending the night?"
Blaine looked lustfully at Kurt. "Yes."
"Okay. I'll come get you in the morning."
"Not necessary. My car is still here. I'll drive back."
"I don't want you driving alone, Blaine."
"Relax, I'll be fine. I need to take my car home anyway. I keep forgetting to have you and Elian pick it up."
"Elian and I will come in the morning and I'll ride back with you."
Blaine shook his head. "That's not necessary. Besides, I don't know what time I'm gonna leave."
Telio shook his head. "You're just not gonna be happy until someone shoots you."
Kurt's eyes filled with worry. "Please don't say that."
Blaine glared at Telio and squeezed Kurt's hand. "Ignore him. I'll be fine."
x-x-x
The moment they were inside their room, Blaine pushed Kurt up against the wall and kissed him, his hands pulling at the zipper of Kurt's pants. Kurt grabbed his hands and tried to pull out of the kiss.
"No, Blaine. Blaine…we need to talk."
Blaine ignored him and tried to kiss him again. Kurt pushed him gently.
"Stop."
Blaine dropped his hands and took a step back. Kurt folded his arms and gave him a firm look.
"No sex tonight. Tonight we talk."
Blaine sat down on the bed and ran his eyes up and down his tall, lean, firm boyfriend. Kurt's hair was still in perfect place. His jeans hugged his legs; his exposed shoulder was creamy and smooth.
"You are so gorgeous."
"Flattery will get you nowhere."
"Will it at least get me cuddling in bed while we talk?"
Kurt's expression softened. "Cuddling only. No sex."
They settled in bed with Kurt leaning against the headboard with Blaine between his legs laying back against his chest. They sat in silence for a while before Kurt began.
"About the summer…"
Blaine immediately interrupted.
"What day do you want me to send someone to get you? I'll try to come myself if I can, but I may have meetings."
Kurt sighed. "What makes you think my father is going to let me stay with you for the entire summer?"
"We're not going to discuss this, Kurt."
"Yes, we are."
"I want you with me. I miss you. I need you."
"I miss you and I need you too, but my father is never going to let me do this."
"You don't need your father's permission."
"Yes, I do."
"Why?"
"Because he's my father. I would never just go off and do something like this without his permission. Besides, I usually help out at the shop in the summer. He's really going to need me this year due to the campaign."
"Did he say that?"
"Well no, but I always help in the summer and with the campaign he's going to be extra busy. He'll need me to be at the shop."
Blaine sat up, turned around, and sat on his knees. Kurt was surprised by the hurt in Blaine's eyes.
"Why are you fighting me on this? Don't you wanna be with me?"
"Of course! Yes! Yes, I wanna be with you, but…"
"Then stop arguing with me and making excuses! Your father can't stop you from doing anything you want to do!"
"I can't just disobey my father!"
Blaine's body tensed as his expression turned fierce.
"No. You can't just disobey me. Your disobedience is dangerous, Kurt. Your disobedience could get you killed. I need to protect you."
"Oh, really? I don't recall you being worried about my safety during spring break. I was home for two weeks and I heard from you once! I was scared the entire time, and…"
"I protected you during spring break!"
"How? By not contacting me? Well that just…"
"You had a bodyguard."
"What?"
"You had a bodyguard. Austin. I told him to make sure you never saw him. He watched over you every day."
Kurt's face fell as his anger receded. "But…why didn't you tell me?"
"I didn't want you to know. I thought it would be easier if you didn't know." Blaine shifted to sit with his legs crossed. Kurt did the same. Blaine took Kurt's hands in his.
"A lot has happened since my father was shot. A lot I haven't told you."
"So tell me now. Tell me everything."
Blaine hesitated. Did he want to tell him that he'd murdered his own grandfather? Beaten a man within inches of his life? Blown up buildings? Had a man's hands sliced off?
No.
He wasn't ready for Kurt to know just how far he'd fallen.
"My dad isn't getting better. He's…he's probably never going to get better."
Kurt's heart broke at the sadness in Blaine's eyes. "Oh, Blaine."
"This is my life now, Kurt. I'm in charge until…" Blaine trailed off. Until Cooper or someone else kills me.
"But you don't have to do this! Tell your mother you don't want this! Why can't Cooper do it?"
Blaine shook his head. "My father never wanted him in charge. I can't let my father down or disrespect him by turning my back on my family. This is my birthright. I have to accept it."
Kurt was undaunted. "No, you don't. I get that you want to respect your father and everything, but what your family does is illegal. No one could blame you for saying you don't want to become a criminal."
I'm already a criminal.
"It's not that simple."
"Why not?"
"I can't just let my family's business be destroyed. I can't."
Kurt sighed. He sort of understood. While he certainly didn't want to work on cars, he wouldn't want anything to happen to Hummel Tire & Lube. His father had worked hard to build the business and he was proud of it. Kurt couldn't imagine letting it fall into ruin. If anything happened to his father he would offer it to Finn or sell it to someone he trusted to keep it going. But this still seemed different. The Anderson family business was weapons, laundering money, murdering others to maintain control and power.
And that's when the truth hit him.
He looked up, his eyes meeting Blaine's. Blaine had been watching him, wondering what he was thinking. Kurt's voice was very quiet.
"You want this, don't you?"
Blaine said nothing.
"You've changed your mind. You didn't want to be in charge, but now…now you want to, don't you?"
Blaine opened his mouth and then closed it as guilt seeped in around the edges of his mind. He was asking Kurt for too much to lie to him.
"I don't feel like I have a choice, but…"
"You don't mind not having a choice," said Kurt.
Blaine said nothing.
They sat in silence holding hands. Kurt stared at their hands while Blaine stared at Kurt.
Is he gonna try to leave me? I won't let him leave me. If I have to kidnap him, I will.
Kurt's heart felt heavy. It wasn't as if any of this was new, but for some reason, knowing that Blaine wanted this life unsettled him. It was one thing for Blaine to be forced into a life of crime, but now he was choosing it. Well…maybe not choosing exactly, but still. He didn't seem as upset as before. Did it even matter?
Blaine's heart ached as he watched Kurt thinking way too hard.
"Do you regret falling in love with me?"
Kurt was moved by the sound of Blaine's voice. For the first time ever Blaine sounded vulnerable. Kurt thought about the conversation he'd had with his father.
It's already too late. I'm already mixed up in it because I'm in love with Blaine. I love him, dad. I'm madly, crazy, don't care anymore, in love with him. And yes, I know it's stupid, and possibly dangerous, but…it's too late. I love him."
Kurt placed his hands on Blaine's shoulders and shook his head. "No, no, never. Never, Blaine. I love you. I'll always love you. Always."
Kurt could taste Blaine's relief in their kiss. They kissed long and soft. Nothing hurried or rushed. Just languid, loving kisses. Eventually they laid down, still kissing softly, with quiet passion. They settled in each other's arms, legs tangled, breath warm against skin. Blaine's voice was a whisper.
"Please, Kurt. Stay with me this summer. I can't stand being without you. The past month has been hell. Say you'll stay with me. Please?"
Kurt closed his eyes and tightened his hold on Blaine.
"Yes. I'll stay with you."
Kurt didn't emerge from his room until lunchtime. Instead of sneaking out , Blaine had woken him around 6:00 am to say goodbye. For some reason their passionate kisses drove Kurt to tears. He wasn't sure why he felt so emotional, but he stood there crying as Blaine kissed and licked his tears away.
"Don't cry, gorgeous. Study hard for finals and I'll see you in a week and a half. Maybe sooner if I can sneak away."
"I know. I'm sorry. I don't know what's wrong with me."
"Nothing's wrong with you. You're perfect. My perfect, beautiful, gorgeous, Kurt."
Kurt spent the morning trying to work up the courage to call his dad finally deciding to wait until evening. Then he started thinking that maybe he should have the conversation in person. Should he go home for a week and then go to Blaine's? If he went home and then announced he was spending the summer with Blaine, would his father lock him in his room to prevent him from leaving? Kurt rolled his eyes at himself.
That sounds more like something Blaine would do.
Kurt ate lunch alone locked in his worry. He was on his way back to his room when he saw Andrew.
Shit! Shit! Shit!
He'd been so rude.
So incredibly rude.
He'd completely abandoned Andrew at the dance without even an "excuse me."
"Andrew?"
Andrew ignored him and kept walking.
"Andrew!"
Andrew whirled around. His voice was icy hard.
"What?"
"I'm sorry. I'm so, so, sorry. What I did was rude, and mean, and just wrong. I'm so sorry. I didn't know Blaine was coming and when I saw him…I just go so excited. It was the second time I'd seen him in over a month and I was just so happy. But still what I did was wrong, and I'm sorry. You didn't deserve that. Please forgive me."
Andrew shook his head. "Forget it, Kurt. It was my fault. I never should have asked you in the first place. From now on I'll leave you alone." He turned and walked away.
"Andrew, wait! Andrew, please? I'm so sorry…"
Andrew continued down the hall and never looked back.
Blaine pulled up in front of Hummel Tire & Lube, and hoped Burt was there and not off campaigning. He'd decided a surprise attack was best.
After all, no matter what Burt was going to be angry.
Blaine didn't give a shit.
He just wanted to make things easier for Kurt.
Benji Barnes greeted him.
"Can I help you?"
"I'm looking for Burt."
Benji motioned toward the back. "He's in the back office."
"Thanks."
Burt looked up and frowned when he saw Blaine.
"Hi Mr. Hummel."
"What are you doing here?"
"I need to speak with you."
"About what? Is Kurt okay?"
"Yes, of course. He's fine."
"Then what do you want?"
Blaine started to walk into the office and sit down but decided that he'd better be on his best behavior in hopes of making things go as smoothly as possible. He remained standing by the door.
"I need to talk to you about the summer."
"The summer?"
"Yes. I've invited Kurt to spend the summer with me, and…"
Burt jumped up shaking his head. "No way. Out of the question."
"Mr. Hummel…"
"Did you hear me, kid? That ain't happening. Frankly, I don't want Kurt anywhere near you or your family."
"I understand your concern, but…"
"Didn't your father just get shot a few weeks ago? You really think I'm going to let my son spend the summer with people who have targets on their backs? I don't get you, kid. You claim to love Kurt and yet you have no problem putting him in danger. What kind of love is that?"
"That's why I want Kurt to spend the summer with me. I know you don't believe me, but the closer he is to me, the safer he is. Yes, you're right. My family has enemies, and those enemies will try to get to me anyway they can, including through Kurt. But here in Lima, alone, he's in danger. With me he's safe. I promise you that."
Burt shook his head. "Do you know how crazy you sound? People are trying to kill you so you want Kurt next to you? Get out of my office! And furthermore, if you really love my son, get out of his life! Leave him alone!"
"Mr. Hummel please sit down. You look like you're about to have another heart attack."
Burt was about to tell Blaine where to go when he felt a slight pinch in his chest. He took a breath and sat down. He took a bottle of pills out of his desk and swallowed two with a sip of water. He glared at Blaine with hatred.
"You've got some nerve."
"No. I just love your son more than you could ever imagine."
"Then why put him in danger?"
"I can't help that. If I could I would, but I can't. It's the nature of being who I am. Who my family is. But I swear to you I'll keep your son safe. Not just for him, or for you, but for me. Do you think I want anything to happen to him? Kurt is the love of my life."
Burt shook his head. "Of all the boys in that school he had to find you."
"We found each other."
Burt sat back in his chair and stared at Blaine with stubborn determination.
"I'm never going to agree to this. I don't want Kurt near you, much less living in your house, so you can just forget it. And if Kurt suddenly disappears, I'll call that FBI agent that's been sniffing around and tell him you kidnapped my son."
So much for trying to reason with Burt out of respect for Kurt.
It was time to get nasty.
Blaine crossed his arms and relaxed against the door frame.
"A couple of weeks ago there was an explosion not too far from here. A warehouse, wasn't it?"
Burt frowned. "A couple streets over."
Blaine nodded. "Yeah, I heard about that. I heard it was a total loss." Blaine went over to the window that looked out on to the shop floor. He watched the men working on cars. "You've built a great business here, Mr. Hummel." Blaine turned around, his voice full of innocence, his expression evil.
"I hope nothing happens to it."
Burt slowly stood up, fists clenched, his face red with fury.
"Are you threatening me?"
"Of course not." I'm promising you.
"Good because you should know that I'd torch the place myself if it meant keeping you from Kurt."
"Cards on the table, Mr. Hummel. Kurt is going to spend the summer with me. If you try to stop him I will burn your business to the ground. I will also plant stories to ruin your candidacy for congress. Now please understand, I don't want to do either of those things because it would hurt Kurt, and I never want to do that, but I will not let you or anyone else keep him from me. He wants to be with me. He loves me and I love him. I will destroy anyone who tries to come between us. So, when Kurt calls and asks for permission to spend the summer with me, just say yes. Don't make it hard on him, and please don't make it hard on you. Oh, and if you're thinking about telling Kurt that I threatened you, know that I will deny everything and he will believe me. You will come off sounding like the paranoid, over-protective father, and I will sound like a patient, loving boyfriend."
Blaine paused to allow his words to sink in. Burt stared at him in shocked silence.
"I don't want us to be enemies. I have enough enemies. You're the father of the man I love. I don't wanna fight with you or threaten you. Your son chose me and I chose him. We love each other. Don't make that difficult. I understand all of your concerns. I really, really do. I constantly worry about Kurt's safety, but I'm not going anywhere. I'm not leaving him. I'm here to stay, so wouldn't it be better for everyone if we could at least try to get along? I know it would make Kurt happy and that's all I want. For Kurt to be happy."
Burt remained speechless, shocked by Blaine's boldness and threats.
Blaine headed to the door. He paused and turned around.
"I promise you. I'm a man of my word, Mr. Hummel. Just like I promise to keep Kurt safe, I promise to destroy you if you try to keep him from me. Please don't push me."
Blaine smiled a beautiful charming smile.
"Thanks for your time, Mr. Hummel."
x-x-x
Kurt almost dropped the phone.
"Really? Seriously?"
Burt gripped the phone a little harder while Carol rubbed his back.
"I don't like it, Kurt, and I wish you would reconsider, but…you're practically a man, and if this is what you want…I'm not going to stand in your way."
Kurt had been pacing around his room, but now he fell back on his bed and kicked his legs happily in the air. He couldn't believe his father had just said yes to him spending the summer with Blaine.
It was Sunday afternoon and Kurt had finally worked up the courage to pick up the phone and call his father. He'd prepared to beg, cry, and plead, but his father had said yes with minimal pushback.
"Oh, dad! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! I promise I'll be okay, and I won't stay the entire summer. I'll come home for a few days, okay?"
Burt swallowed and closed his eyes. "Sure, Kurt. Sounds good."
"We should attend, Anastasia."
"They've already gotten our money. I don't have to be there."
Luther and Anastasia were having breakfast in the hotel lobby. One of the men had dropped off the mail. Anastasia was sorting it into piles of keep vs. trash when Luther spotted the invitation to the Annual Nationwide Children's Hospital Charity Ball in her trash pile. He pulled it out and opened it. Anderson Construction was listed as a top donor to the hospital. One of Mario's many charitable contributions designed to create an image of legitimacy.
"You need to get out more, Anastasia. You haven't been anywhere but to the hospital and the hotel."
"Not true. I went to the salon and I've been going to the hotel gym."
"That's not what I mean and you know it. Let's RSVP for this and I'll take you shopping for something beautiful to wear."
"I have plenty of clothes."
"But they're all at the compound. Let's buy something new."
After 30 minutes of arguing, Anastasia agreed to attend. They headed to Saks Fifth Avenue where Luther sat in a comfortable chair while Anastasia tried on various dresses.
"What do you think of this one? Too young?"
It was a coral Miu Miu bustier style dress embellished with Swarovski crystals. Luther stared at her and crossed his legs to hide his erection.
"You look stunning."
"Really?"
"Yes. Absolutely stunning."
Anastasia smiled.
Her first real smile in a long time.
That evening they went to dinner at Prime 47.
"What do you think I should do about Mario?"
Luther took his time, choosing his words carefully.
"What do you mean?"
"Should I move him to Cleveland, or keep him here? I just don't know what to do."
"What does Blaine want?"
Anastasia shook her head. "He says it's up to me. If I move him to Cleveland he'll arrange security, but…I don't know. I don't want to move to Cleveland. This is my home."
"I told you before that you don't have to move. You can go see him whenever you want."
"But I'm not sure I can stand being so far away from him. I need…" she trailed off.
Luther reached across the table and took her hand. "What do you need?"
Anastasia felt captured by Luther's intense blue eyes. His stare went straight through her and pierced a place deep inside that had lay dormant since the shooting. She tried to pull her hand back, but Luther tightened his grip.
"Tell me what you need."
"Luther…please…"
Luther released her hand and sat back. Anastasia ran her finger along her wedding ring.
Luther watched her stroke the platinum diamond ring and decided to proceed carefully.
"I want you to know that my advice regarding Mario comes from my love for him. He is my best friend. Regardless of how I feel about you, I truly want what's best for him."
"And what do you think that is?"
"I think you should move him to Cleveland. Things are getting hotter here with each passing day. Blaine is hell bent on taking Chartussi out, and Chartussi is smart enough to keep the war in Ohio on Anderson turf. That way his New York operations are not affected. The hospital is dangerous, and eventually they are going to want us out. In Cleveland we can arrange for a private suite. Mario will have around the clock care, and Blaine will make sure he's protected. He'll be safer in Cleveland."
Anastasia looked directly into Luther's eyes.
"But you think I should stay here."
Luther nodded. "Yes. I have a job for you."
"A job?"
"I'd like you to run the Anderson Family Foundation."
"There's an Anderson Family Foundation?"
"There is now. Mario and I always talked about starting a foundation. Another place to hide money and do some good at the same time. I think now is a perfect time to get started. It will give you something to do, and buy us additional goodwill in the community."
Anastasia looked thoughtful. A foundation. She had no idea how to start a foundation, much less run one. She'd never even had a job before, but the more she thought about it, the more excited she felt.
"I would need an office, and possibly an assistant."
"You can have the office next to mine, and I'm sure Beth can handle the extra work. If not we'll hire someone."
Anastasia nodded. "Okay, but I still need time to think about moving Mario."
Two weeks later Luther stood in a corner watching Anastasia make small talk with two society women who were fascinated to be talking to a mobster's wife. Luther lost count of the number of men who took advantage of Mario's absence to speak to Anastasia. He couldn't blame them. She was easily the most beautiful woman in the room.
When the event ended Luther hurried Anastasia towards the waiting limousine. She stopped him.
"Wait. It's such a nice night. Can we walk?"
Luther looked around nervously. "I don't think so. That could be dangerous."
"We're surrounded by guards with guns. It's a beautiful night, and the hotel is just three blocks away. Please?"
Luther looked at the guards who shrugged. Either way they were on duty, so they didn't care.
"Okay."
Luther hooked his arm with Anastasia's. The guards gave them space but remained alert.
They strolled along in silence enjoying the warm night air, each locked in their very separate thoughts. Luther was thinking how he wished the evening would end with Anastasia inviting him to her room. Anastasia was thinking about Mario.
"I've been thinking. I talked to Dr. Weinstein and Dr. Greene, and perhaps I will go ahead and move Mario, but I want to visit the facility first. I want to meet with the doctors, and I want to personally interview the nurses who will be responsible for his care. I want full background checks, and their pay doubled to gain their loyalty."
"Of course."
"I want full around the clock security."
"I'm sure Blaine will arrange nothing less."
Anastasia sighed sadly. "Will it look like I'm sending him away?"
"No. You'll look like a loving wife doing what's best for her husband."
The finished their walk in silence.
Luther watched Anastasia open her door. She turned to him.
"You can't fall in love with me."
Too late.
"What makes you think I'm falling in love with you?"
"I see it in your eyes. Despite Mario's condition I'm still married. He's still my husband. I still belong to him."
Luther took a step forward. "He can't take care of you anymore."
"I can take care of myself."
"Yes, but only up to a certain point."
Luther gently caressed the hair from Anastasia's forehead and gently ran a finger down her cheek. He moved closer, leaving few inches between them.
"When the time comes…when you're ready…I'll be here to take care of you. I've waited over 20 years. I can wait a while longer."
Cooper woke with a start. What the hell was ringing? Was that his phone? He looked down and realized a naked girl was sleeping next to him. Who the fuck was she? He rubbed his face and tried to think.
Cocaine. A fresh new batch of cocaine. A beautiful batch. Pure as freshly fallen snow. The type of cocaine that gave a spectacular high.
How did the girl end up here?
He strained his brain to remember his night.
He and Sam picked up the new batch and delivered half to Alan and took the rest to the warehouse. Cooper took a block to try, and then? Oh yeah. He stopped at the liquor store and met…what's this chick's name? They came back to his place and partied, and fucked, and drank, and partied, and fucked some more.
Cooper made his way to the bathroom. As he washed his face the ringing started again. He searched around for his cell phone. He looked at the screen and cursed under his breath.
Timothy.
"I told you to lose my number."
Timothy sounded tense and stressed. "I wanna trade."
"Trade what?"
"Information in exchange for the new batch that just hit the street."
"I don't need information. You can pay for your shit like everyone else."
"Good luck finding Kurt this summer."
"What?"
"Meet me at the diner at 4:00 pm and bring the new stuff with you."
Timothy hung up.
x-x-x
At 4:15 pm Cooper slid into the booth across from a very agitated Timothy.
"You look like terrible."
"Did you bring it?"
"Where's Kurt going for the summer?"
"Lemme see it."
Cooper tossed a small brown bag across the table. Timothy practically tore it open and peered inside.
"This is the new stuff, right?"
"Yeah, yeah, yeah. What's going on with fairy boy?"
"He's spending the entire summer with your brother."
"Where?"
"I guess at your house. He's going home for one week and then he's going to Blaine's."
"When will he be home?"
Timothy hesitated as his conscience kicked in.
"You're not gonna hurt him, are you?"
"Don't start asking questions."
"I just don't want…"
Cooper reached across the table and snatched the bag away from Timothy.
"Hey!"
"I'm outta here."
"Wait! Wait! Okay! Okay! Thursday. He's leaving school Thursday. He'll be home for a week."
Cooper threw the bag at him. "Don't call me anymore. And if I find out you're playing me, or reporting back to Blaine, I will beat the shit out of your addicted ass and then shoot you in the head. Then I'll kill your stupid, fucked up parents and your stupid jock brother. Understand?"
Timothy clutched the bag to his chest. "Yeah. I understand."
Elian pulled up in front of a small, nondescript sandwich shop tucked away on a side street in Lima. Telio pulled his gun out of his waistband and placed it on the seat. He took his cell phone out of his pocket and placed it next to the gun.
Elian looked at the three guys hanging out in front of the shop. "Are you sure you don't want me to go with you?"
"We told them it would just be me. If they see two of us they'll get spooked. I'll be fine."
Telio climbed out of the car and approached the shop. The three men looked him up and down.
"I'm here to speak to Mr. Chartussi on behalf of Blaine Anderson."
The biggest of the three men with a bald head nodded.
"Gotta check ya."
Telio put his hands up and stood still while the man felt up and down his legs, waist, chest, back, and even cupped his crotch.
"Come on."
Telio followed him inside. It looked like a normal restaurant. Plenty of tables with red chairs, a counter for ordering, and a cold case full of deli meats. There were a few guys watching TV, but no one looked like an actual customer.
"Wait here."
Telio watched the bald guy disappear through a door. The guys watching TV glanced at him before returning to their show. After a moment Sammy Avalon walked in.
"I'm Sammy Avalon. Mr. Chartussi apologizes for missing this meeting. He had urgent business to attend to."
Telio longed to punch Sammy in the face and drag him back to the compound for Luther to kill, but he had a job to do.
"Mr. Anderson would like to extend an invitation to Mr. Chartussi for a sit down Tuesday evening at Claraden House in downtown Westerville. 2:00 pm."
Sammy smirked. "Mr. Anderson? Are you boys even old enough to drive yet?"
"We're old enough to kill."
Sammy's smirk disappeared instantly. "I'll let Mr. Chartussi know of your invitation."
Telio turned to leave. He was almost to the door when Sammy called out.
"Give my love to Luther."
Telio stopped and clenched his fists. Not now. You make a move now and you'll be killed.
Saturday evening Blaine and Kurt lay naked in bed. Blaine showed up unannounced Saturday morning to help Kurt study for his final two exams. As usual their study session turned into a twisted game of Blaine making Kurt pay sexually for every wrong answer. Kurt spent most of the morning on his knees, wrists tied to his ankles with a large plug buzzing inside his ass. Blaine sat on the bed asking questions, increasing the vibration every time Kurt answered incorrectly. At one point Blaine stopped asking questions and just studied Kurt's cock. It was fully erect, quivering slightly against Kurt's belly.
"I think I'm going to buy a chastity cock cage for you. I've seen them before. The metal ones are really pretty, and some even come with a ring to lock your balls down too." Blaine turned up the vibration. "If I buy one will you wear it?"
Kurt moaned, "Yes."
"Maybe I'll buy a matching set. We can both wear one. I'll give you the key to mine, and I'll keep the key to yours. Would you like that?"
Kurt could only nod and groan.
After keeping Kurt on edge for over an hour, Blaine surprised him by untying him, handing him a bottle of lube, and flipping over on to his stomach. He wiggled his ass in the air.
"Come on and fuck me, gorgeous."
Kurt buried his tongue in Blaine's asshole. He took his time licking and probing before replacing his tongue with lube and two fingers, making Blaine moan appreciatively. Once he could easily slip four fingers inside, Kurt lubed up his cock and pressed forward, sliding into Blaine's ass. Blaine's moan was deep and delicious. He closed his eyes and allowed his body to relax into the mattress as Kurt pounded into him with steady, even thrusts. Kurt slowed down, hoping not to come too fast, but he couldn't help himself. Blaine had built him up for a fantastic eruption. His orgasm was so strong he felt a little dizzy. He pulled out and Blaine flipped over on to his back. Kurt scooted down, resting his head on Blaine's stomach. He fell into his usual warm, sleepy, after sex coma while Blaine twirled his fingers in Kurt's hair and stared at the ceiling, thinking about all the things he needed to do.
Kurt napped for 45 minutes. When he woke up he gave Blaine a sheepish smile.
"Sorry."
"Nothing to be sorry for. I love watching you sleep. Like Edward."
Kurt laughed. "You're a wolf, remember? Warm and cuddly."
"When's your last day?"
"Wednesday."
"Okay. I'll be here that afternoon."
"I'm not gonna leave until Thursday. I need time to pack." Kurt paused for a moment to take a breath and prepare himself.
"My dad will be here Thursday morning."
Blaine tightened his grip on Kurt's hair. "Your dad?"
"I'm going home for a week before coming to see you. I need to spend some time with him."
"I don't want you going home, Kurt. Going home isn't good for you."
"It's only for one week. You can come get me that Friday."
"I don't want you going home."
"Stop being unreasonable. The fact that my dad said yes is something to celebrate. I still can't believe it. The least I can do is to go home for a few days. I promise. One week and then we'll have the entire summer."
Blaine decided not to argue. He would spend the week taking care of things. He had the Chartussi meeting, his mother had decided to move his father to Cleveland, and he was finally ready to give Sammy Avalon to Luther. They were going to grab him Friday and bring him to the barn. They had sadistic shit planned for Sammy, so it would probably be better if Kurt wasn't around to hear the screams.
Blaine tugged at Kurt's hair. Kurt crawled up his body and brought their foreheads together.
"Okay. One week at home and then you come stay with me. I need you."
"You'll have me for the entire summer. I promise."
At 1:15 pm on Tuesday, five black cars pulled up in front of the private dinner club Claraden House. Two black hummers and three black BMWs. Telio and Elian climbed out of the fourth car, a black BMW, and opened the door for Blaine. Blaine stepped out and looked around. He'd cut his hair, keeping it just long enough to showcase his curls. He was wearing all black. A button down shirt, pants, jacket, shoes. When Blaine came downstairs to leave, Elian had to grip the back of a chair. Blaine looked incredibly handsome, sexy, and like he was about to calmly murder someone.
"Are we ready to roll?"
Elian swallowed and licked his lips. "Almost. They're just getting the cars ready."
Blaine nodded and headed outside. Elian closed his eyes and exhaled.
He's never gonna fuck you, so stop wanting him.
Blaine waited for Luther to exit one of the Hummers. As they headed inside, Luther counseled Blaine on how to handle the meeting. He'd been doing it all week.
"Chartussi is after our trade routes. He asked your father for access, but of course he said no. He threatened to approach Cooper for help. We don't know if that happened or not. We also don't know if he's the one behind the hit on your father, but he's the most likely candidate."
"It could have been Cooper."
Luther stopped walking. "Cooper?"
Blaine laughed lightly at Luther's shocked expression.
"Yes, Cooper. Come on. Do you really expect me to believe that you never considered the possibility that Cooper was the one that arranged for the hit on our father?"
Luther shook his head. "I know he's angry with your father, but…a hit? I don't think he'd go that far. Not unless he knew about Skylar, but even then..."
"Skylar? What about Skylar?"
Fuck.
It was a rare mistake by Luther. He never slipped up.
Of course, maybe it didn't matter anymore.
"We'll talk about it later."
"No, tell me now."
Luther shook his head and quickly walked ahead.
Telio came up to Blaine. "What's up?"
"I don't know. Something about Skylar."
"Skylar? Dead Skylar"
"Yeah."
Telio didn't say anything else.
At 1:45 pm Frank Chartussi and his entourage arrived. Blaine was already seated at the table. He stood up but did not hold out his hand.
"Mr. Chartussi."
"Blaine."
It was a slight to call Blaine by his first name, but Blaine ignored it. There were more important matters to handle.
The men sat down. Drinks were served. Blaine waited for the wait staff to leave.
"So, what do you want?" Blaine didn't plan to waste time with pleasantries and formalities. Unless Chartussi was willing to shoot himself right then and there, they had nothing to discuss.
Chartussi frowned. "You're a rude one. Must be youth."
"I just don't want you to miss your plane."
"My plane?"
"Yes. Your one-way flight back to New York."
Chartussi leaned forward. "Then let's get right to it. You're a boy not a man, and from what I've heard you'll never be a man. What with sucking cock and all. Your father is dying and your brother is a coked out drug dealer who will be dead sooner than later. That's a lot for a boy to deal with, so let me help you. I'm offering to buy you out. All of it. Weapons, gambling, the money laundering business. I'll even set your brother up so he can sell dope in Ohio and all points south and southwest. You can keep the construction company if you want, or I'll buy that too. It's up to you. I'm offering you a chance to walk away from all the stress, pain, and hardship of mob life. I'm offering you your freedom."
Blaine's facial expression did not change.
But he was shocked speechless.
This wasn't what he was expecting.
He came ready to officially declare war.
Not to be offered a way out.
He could sell everything.
And walk away from it all.
And be with Kurt.
The money would be insane.
They'd never have to work.
They could finance their own Broadway shows with Kurt as the star. They could travel. Move to another country. Buy an island. Do nothing but fuck.
Lost in his thoughts, Blaine didn't realize that all eyes were on him. Luther was looking at him quizzically while Telio was about to explode.
He'd seen Blaine's expression before. It was the look he got when he used to talk about never taking over from his father, going to college, and just being with Kurt.
Is he seriously considering this mother-fucker's offer. What the fuck!
Chartussi kept his eyes on Blaine. The silence told him that he'd thrown Blaine for a loop. Good. Even he'd been surprised when he thought about buying the Andersons out, but it made sense. Wars were expensive in both lives and money. All of his earlier intelligence reported that Blaine wasn't interested in the family business, but the attack had spurred him into action. Maybe if he was offered a way out, he would take it. After all, the kid was what? 17? 18? And gay. He had no business running a crime organization.
Blaine was pulled out of his daydream when Telio stood and spoke.
"Mr. Chartussi, can you and your men excuse us while we speak privately for a moment?"
Blaine looked at Telio.
I don't turn off my feelings and emotions. I sacrifice them for those I love.
If he sold everything to Chartussi, what would happen to Telio? The other crews? Everyone who depended on the Andersons for their livelihood? Chartussi was known for being a tightwad and a greedy son-of-a-bitch. He'd never take care of everyone the way his father had. The way he planned to.
If his father ever woke up, what would he say to him? How would he explain that he sold his family legacy?
Chartussi stood up. "Not necessary. Take a few days, think about a price, and get back to me."
Everyone representing the Andersons shared shocked looks of concern and anger. Was Blaine really interested in selling?
"Wait."
Chartussi turned around. "Yes?"
Blaine looked at him with dark intense eyes.
"How about I buy you out?"
"What?"
"I want New York."
Chartussi sat back down.
"Are you crazy?"
"I've been thinking about going to college in New York and I don't want problems. Sell your business interests to me and you can retire."
Chartussi and his entire entourage laughed. "You're funny. That will never happen."
"Then I guess we're done here."
Chartussi turned bright red as his anger welled up.
"Oh no we aren't you little cocksucker. We're just getting started. You'd better rethink my offer because if we go to war I will crush you. I'm done playing nice with your faggot ass. You owe me. Your brother is bringing drugs into my territory, you burned down a very expensive home that belonged to my daughter, and I know it was you who blew up the buildings. I'm offering you a very generous exit strategy. I suggest you take it."
Blaine leaned forward. "Perhaps you're the crazy one. You tried to kill my father. You murdered an innocent girl. Do you really think there are no consequences for your actions?"
"Trust me. You don't wanna take me on. I suggest you think about a price."
"And I suggest you get the hell out of Ohio."
Chartussi stood up. "We're done here."
"Have a nice flight."
Benji Barnes watched from across the street as Burt locked up the shop and left. He waited 30 minutes before crossing the street and walking around to the back of the building. He let himself in and went into the closet that held the security camera equipment. After about 45 minutes of examining and experimenting with the equipment he felt confident with his assignment.
He locked the shop back up and headed for home. As he drove he made a call.
"Yeah, Benji here. I had a chance to check out the equipment and it won't be a problem."
"Good because everything is going down next week."
"Next week?"
"Yeah. The kid will be home on Thursday. As soon as you know when he's working, give us a call and we'll move forward."
"All right."
"By the way. If you happen to notice, let me know if he's wearing a bracelet the next time you see him."
"A bracelet?"
"Yeah. A black and silver bracelet."
"Okay."
I'm sure you know what's coming. I'll try to make it come sooner rather than later.