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by Amira Devant

When everything for a photo-shoot goes wrong, leaving an irate Anna Wintour and a diva photographer Seo Joon, Isabelle Wright needs her best to fix the problem. Kurt Hummel, part time PA, has to save the day. When Kurt agreed to model, he had no idea how things would change. AU-ish Klaine. Kurt-centric.

3. Meet Kurt Hummel

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Disclaimer: I don't own Glee. Trust me, things would have been very different if I did. I don't own Seo Joon from Love Rain or Miranda Presley from Devil Wears Prada or Marc Jacobs. In fact, I own nothing but the insanity that lives in my mind. And even that is iffy. When you say nothing at all belongs to Ronan Keating. Made in the USA belongs to Demi Lovato.

Summary: When everything for a photo-shoot goes wrong, leaving an irate Anna Wintour and a diva photographer Seo Joon, Isabelle Wright needs her best to fix the problem. Kurt Hummel, part time PA, has to save the day. Kurt is Vogue's newest, and hottest, model. Watch out world. AU-ish Klaine. Kurt-centric.

The scenes with Blaine's family is inspired by the movie "What a Girl Wants."

Again, blame Boo. He seems to be more of a puppy (I imagine dark brown curly, fluffy puppy with large honey eyes like Blaine) who bites me. A lot.

Chapter 3

Meet Kurt Hummel

~0~0~0~

The next day was insane. Santana was not human as she was up at the crack of dawn. Kurt vaguely remembers throwing a pillow at her and she left for a while.

When he woke up again, at a more appropriate time, it was going on nine am. It was still too early but Blaine was coming at eleven and he still needed to pack some of his clothing.

What did greet him was Santana sitting at the small coffee table in their room reading what looked to be every paper in London and a cup of coffee.

"Your coffee is on your bedside," she said with a grin, "drink it, get dressed and finish your packing. Your boytoy called and is on his way."

Kurt groaned as he sat up. They only got back after 3 in the morning.

"What has you in such a good mood?" he asked as he inhaled the liquid caffeine. "Thank you."

Santana nodded but practically bounced out of her seat and on to the bed next to him. Kurt moved to safe the coffee but Santana pushed the paper in his face.

"We are the talk of Fashion Week," Santana explained. "I mean, you are. They were speculating about you but after last night you were a hit. Marc's new line is in demand and it seems like Miranda Presley made a statement. And in every paper when they mention you, they mention me."

Kurt stared at the paper in front of him. There was a picture of him and Santana along with Marc, Anna, Isabelle and Seo Joon.

"My picture is out there, and Isabelle apparently got some requests for me to model last night," Santana continued. "Doing this with you was like giving my career steroids. So thank you."

"Anytime," Kurt stuttered out as he started reading the rave review of the show: the runway, the clothing, and the models and the 'man that stole the show: Kurt Hummel.'

He licked his lips, "Are we in every paper?"

Santana paused and looked at him. She nodded slowly. "Just about. You being a PA turned model is drawing a lot of attention."

Kurt cursed as he sat back.

"I didn't realise how big this was," he admitted, "not really."

"Hey," Santana nudged him as she took the paper back. She would save copies and take them back with her. "It doesn't change anything. You just have a well-paying, part time job that kind of made you famous."

Kurt smiled weakly at that before downing his coffee. He nudged Santana over so he could get out of bed. "I'm going to shower. I'm pretty much done packing. Are you sure you will be okay staying her alone? You could go back to New York without me."

Santana snorted, "I get extra time in London that is being paid for by Vogue. I'm not leaving. Plus, without you here, I can bring back some hot London girl for sex without traumatising you."

Kurt laughed at that and went to shower.

By the time Blaine knocked on their room door, Kurt was packing away his toiletries. Santana opened the door and greeted him in her own special way.

"Okay Princess, here's the deal," she stated, "you're going off to the Shire with Frodo here. But on Sunday you will meet me here at 8 am. We have a car to take us to the airport."

"Love you too, Satan," Kurt shot back but gave her a hug, "Have fun and please don't tell me about it."

"You have fun and please take pictures," Santana shot back, "or a video. I'm not fussy."

Kurt snorted but waved, with Blaine following pulling Kurt's suitcase. Kurt's arms were full with the two bouquets he refused to leave behind much to Blaine's amusement.

Stepping outside the hotel, Blaine smiled as a black car pulled up. Kurt raised an eyebrow as the driver got out to put the bag in the trunk.

"Kurt this is Robert, he drives my grandparent's town car," Blaine explained. "Robert, this is Kurt, my boyfriend. He'll be staying with us tonight."

Robert smiled and greeted him before opening the door for them.

Kurt turned to Blaine, wide eyed, "Town car?"

Blaine shrugged, "You knew my family is rich."

Kurt snorted at that and he slid into the car, "Yeah, but this is like Gossip Girl."

Blaine entered after him, and Robert closed the door, "My mum doesn't like to advertise wealth. Dad's parents are used this lifestyle. Mum was actually the one who refused to spoil us growing up."

Blaine reached for Kurt's hand with a slightly worried expression. Blaine never showed off just how wealthy his family was. Sure, Kurt had been to his house and seen some of it. But he drove a gorgeous mustang that had been through a lot of TLC.

Kurt smiled his crooked smile, "I guess this week is just a week of crazy."

"Something like that," Blaine admitted. "But this doesn't change us?"

"Never," Kurt replied with a grin.

"Good."

And Blaine pulled his boyfriend into a kiss. If they start making out in the back seat, Robert doesn't say anything.

When they pull up to the house, Kurt turns to Blaine with wide eyes, "Do not tell me you forgot to mention you are, in fact, related to royalty."

Blaine laughed at that, "No, not really. I mean, Grandfather is a gentleman which is less prestigious than a Lord but he made some good investments over the years."

"Blaine, your family has a manor," Kurt replied as he stared at the gorgeous house and the sprawling gardens.

"I'll have to bring you back here sometime," Blaine said casually, "Maybe over spring break? We can have picnics out here and go rowing on the river."

Kurt turned to him, eyes bright. Kurt knew that Blaine knew that was on his bucket list. "You do not play fair, Mr Anderson."

Blaine smirked back, "I have to up my game. My boyfriend is a model, after all."

Kurt groaned at that. First it was being a cheerleader and now a model. Blaine was never going to let it go. Even with Blaine almost being blackmailed into the Cheerios (Class President saved his ass), Kurt's boyfriend strongly maintained that almost was not close enough. Especially when Kurt was a national champion cheerleader.

The car stopped and Robert opened the door. They got out with a soft thanks. Blaine pulled Kurt towards the door, explain that Robert would bring the bag in and that brunch was waiting.

After being let in by the (honest to God) butler, they made their way through the manor. Kurt's eyes darted around, taking in the British splendour and tried not to panic.

They finally entered a room with a table with food already set out. Blaine grinned as he pulled Kurt with him, "Sorry we are late but the traffic was horrendous."

"It's okay Poppy," the elegant lady replied. Kurt noted that she must be Katherine Anderson. She smiled at him with a familiar smile. Kurt started at that. He always though Blaine's smile came from his mum but it seemed not the case. "Introduce this lovely boy, won't you?"

Blaine beamed at that. He found it rather ironic that his father's parents accepted him readily when he came out yet it was his father who had issues with him being gay. Meanwhile, he mother accepted him with a smile yet it was her parents that had issues and refused to speak to him since. As far as Blaine knew, his mother still hasn't spoken to her parents.

"This is my gorgeous boyfriend, Kurt Hummel. Kurt, these are my grandparents, Katherine and Henry Anderson." Blaine said with a flourish. Kurt quirked an eyebrow in silent question, which Blaine answered, "Mum is in a video meeting and I believe dad had to meet with a client. They will be joining us soon, I think." Kurt nodded.

"It's a pleasure to meet you," Kurt said with a smile.

Katherine gave him a hard look before smiling, "It's about time my lovely grandson here brought you over for a visit. My word, those pictures do not do you justice, Darling. Poppy, be a dear and pull out a seat for Kurt."

Kurt grinned as Blaine literally pulled out a chair so he could sit, all with a cheesy grin.

"You have a lovely manor," Kurt intoned as he sat down.

"Thank you, Darling," Katherine replied with a smile before shooting a look at her grandson, "I hope that means you will bring him for a proper visit, Poppy."

Blaine looked chastened, "If we are not too busy, I mentioned to Kurt that maybe we could visit over Spring Break. He would love the gardens during spring."

Kurt blushed at that.

It was Henry who replied, as he put down the paper, "You just tell us the dates and we'll book the tickets. It's about time you got your act together and got him back. Cooper even phone us about your moping."

Blaine blushed at that while Kurt looked at the table. Blaine had mentioned how his grandparents had been so disappointed in him when he told them that he had cheated on Kurt and that was why they broke up.

"Hush dear," Katherine butted in, "leave Poppy alone. They've sorted their relationship out. Now let them eat their breakfast in peace."

Blaine looked at his grandmother gratefully but smiled at the Kurt as he boyfriend reached for his hand.

Kurt shrugged as he accepted the offered teapot, "We both made mistakes. But we've managed to fix it and our relationship is that much stronger."

Kurt met Henry's gaze straight on, head held high. There was a tense silence as Blaine gripped Kurt's hand all the tighter.

Henry looked at Kurt for a moment before nodding. He glanced at Blaine and gave him a small nod too before turning back to his paper.

Blaine gave a small sigh of relief. The tension dissipated as Katherine steered the conversation onto safer grounds, asking Kurt about himself.

Breakfast went by smoothly after that, only to be disrupted by the arrival of Blaine's parents. While Elsa hugged Kurt, and gushed over him in general, John had greeted him stiffly and asked after his family. Kurt counted that as an improvement. John Anderson had ignored him straight out before.

"Kurt, Darling," Katherine asked as the staff cleared the table, "what are your plans for today?"

Kurt looked to Blaine as he replied, "Just some sightseeing. I've been here a week but I've been working for most of it. I really want to see Buckingham Palace and maybe the London Eye. Blaine said he would be showing me around."

Blaine nodded, "I booked our tickets already and we have day passes for the hop-on-hop-off bus. We don't really have time to see something at West End though." Blaine looked apologetic at that. Kurt smiled at him as he shook his head.

"Well," she continued, "if you are free for tea later, do join us at the Regatta. I may have mentioned to some of my friends that my grandson and his lovely boyfriend are in London. We'll be heading to dinner from there, if you would rather join us just for dinner."

Blaine looked to Kurt who shrugged back. They didn't have any plans and it sounded like a proper English Tea Party. Plus, with all the Marc Jacobs clothing Kurt now owned, he had something to wear.

"We'll be there at five?" Blaine half-asked his grandmother who nodded. "We should leave now if we want to see everything." It was half-twelve already.

London was a different type of magic that left Kurt breathless. He just didn't know if it was the city or the company. Blaine, being the perfectionist he was, had booked them on the one pm tour of Buckingham that included the changing of guards. All the while, they took cheesy tourist photographs from the bus before ending up at the London Eye for their three-thirty ride.

In the small carriage, Blaine hooked his arms around Kurt to block him from the pushing of the other excited tourists, and so he could watch Kurt's face as he took in the London view.

"Thank you," Kurt murmured as he took in the vastness that was London, a city built over the centuries that saw rise to Kings and Queens.

"It was my pleasure," Blaine replied, with a chaste kiss placed on Kurt's cheek, "but next we are here we are doing this tourist thing properly. And I'm taking you to West End. Maybe we could come back next summer rather than just a week in Spring Break. We could spend more time here in London."

Kurt smiled at that, warmed at the thought that they were planning were they would be in a year's time. Instead he said dryly, "That would be lovely but you're telling your grandmother that she has to wait a year to see us again."

Blaine groaned at that. "I am sorry about her. She's just heard a lot about you and, well, when she takes a shine to someone she doesn't let go. She is used to getting her way."

Kurt snorted at that but turned to face Blaine, ignoring London in favour of his boyfriend. "Well, at least I'll be the Darling to her Poppy."

Blaine blushed at that but Kurt grinned as he leaned in close. "It's cute."

Blaine said nothing in reply as he just took in the closeness. It was so familiar yet startling new. He had almost lost this forever.

"We need a photo," Blaine said suddenly as he pulled out his phone. He shifted them so they both stood against the glass walls and held the camera up.

"Okay?" Kurt questioned for a moment before he was pulled into a kiss. He melted into the familiar warmth and motion of kissing Blaine. It still sent tingles through his body to his toes. He was vaguely aware of the clicking sound of a camera, before Blaine pulled him closer.

Blaine was the first to pull back, murmuring against Kurt's lips, "Bucket List number 82, kiss on the London Eye."

Kurt blinked at his boyfriend before grabbing his collar and pulling him for another kiss.

The Eye took half an hour to do a full rotation, which left them with some time to shop along the river in the small flea market and tourist shops.

Kurt grinned as he dragged Blaine along, refusing to let go of his hand. He gleefully bought a shirt that stated, 'My brother went to London and all I got was this t-shirt' for Finn. He bought an assortment of mugs, magnets, shirts for gifts, and a cap for his dad.

Blaine had found a store that sold records and ended up buying close to two dozen before Kurt dragged him away. Only for Kurt to stumble into a store that sold scarves. Then it was Blaine's turn to drag his boyfriend away.

They made their way towards the bridge and Big Ben.

"Robert is going to pick us up there at quarter past four," Blaine explained as he carried the half of the shopping bags. "We'll head back to the house to change and freshen up before joining my family for tea."

They had time to stroll and just take in London. Kurt loved it. He could imagine what it would be like to spend his summers here with Blaine.

Kurt laughed as Blaine convinced one of the buskers to lend him their guitar. The girl looked amused when Blaine had bounded up to her after the song and offered her some cash to he could 'borrow her guitar to serenade his boyfriend please'.

The crowd who had stopped to listen to her watched amused as Blaine dropped the bags by her open guitar case and started strumming the strings

Kurt blushed as Blaine grinned and sang.

It's amazing how you can speak right to my heart.

Blaine stared straight at Kurt, looking him in the eye. Like he saw no one else in that moment.

Without saying a word, you can light up the dark.

Try as I may, I can never explain,

Why I hear when you don't say a thing.

The smile on your face lets me know that you need me.

There's a truth in your eyes saying you'll never leave me.

The touch of your hand says you'll catch me whenever I fall.

You say it best when you say nothing at all.

Kurt flushed at the attention from Blaine but was unable to move his eyes away. He was aware of the crowd around them; Blaine's voice drawing them in like bees to honey. Kurt was also aware they their gazes turned you him as Blaine kept singing to him.

All day long I can hear people talking aloud.

But when you hold me near, you drown out the crowd.

Try as they may, they can never define:

What's been said between your heart and mine.

The smile on your face lets me know that you need me.

There's a truth in your eyes saying you'll never leave me.

The touch of your hand says you'll catch me whenever I fall.

You say it best when you say nothing at all.

The smile was stuck on Kurt's face as Blaine played a short bridge. He wished he had filmed this. Something to keep to remember the perfect day in London when his crazy boyfriend serenaded him on the fly.

The smile on your face lets me know that you need me.

There's a truth in your eyes saying you'll never leave me.

The touch of your hand says you'll catch me whenever I fall.

You say it best when you say nothing at all.

Blaine ended the song with a strum. The crowd of people clapped appreciatively but his eyes were on Kurt. He thanked the girl and gave back her guitar and picked up their shopping.

"How long have you had that in your back pocket," Kurt teased, but the glimmer in his eye gave it away. The flush, breathlessness told Blaine just how much Kurt loved the song.

"Spur of the moment," Blaine insisted but shut up when Kurt kissed him.

"Thank you," Kurt murmured against soft lips. Even if Blaine serenaded him a hundred times, it will always be something special. "I love you something crazy."

"It's true," Blaine replied, but the love struck grin was stuck on his lips.

Kurt laughed at that, as Blaine pouted at the lack of kissing. But Kurt had this glint in his eye as he thought of something. Kurt pressed the bags in his hands to Blaine as he stepped out of the embrace.

"No, come back," Blaine half whined. Kurt grinned mischievously.

"Honey, you're not the only one who can serenade in this relationship," Kurt threw over his shoulder as he made his way towards the girl with the guitar. The crowd who had watched Blaine had dropped coins in her open guitar case.

"Hi," Kurt greeted her, "my crazy boyfriend serenaded me. He's actually done quite a lot so I was wondering if you would mind helping me serenade him."

The girl stared at him before chuckling. "Just when I thought he was pretty much bonkers it turns out he is dating someone just as bonkers."

Kurt shrugged at that, "We both study music. It's kind of a major part of our relationship."

"Lorna," she introduced herself, "What do you have in mind?"

Kurt grinned, "I'm Kurt and he's Blaine. So, considering where we are, do you know…?"

Blaine watched as Kurt charmed a girl, half amused but curious as to what Kurt was going to do. He didn't kid himself that Kurt was the same boy from high school. There was this sense of self-assurance and confidence that was sexy as hell.

When the girl started strumming, Blaine knew that the old Lima Kurt would never randomly serenade him in London. But his boyfriend would and Blaine couldn't wait to fall deeper in love with the changes in Kurt.

In a clear voice, over the music, Kurt grinned as he said, "Like I said Honey, You're not the only one who can serenade in our relationship. I thought this song was appropriate considering where we are." He waved his hand as he gestured around him.

Kurt grinned as he sang, in a clear voice that was so different yet still the same from high school. NYADA had really brought out the best in Kurt's vocals. Blaine stared as his boyfriend say playfully while smiling at him.

Our love runs deep like a Chevy.

If you fall, I will fall with you baby.

Cos that's the way we like to do it.

That's the why we like.

Kurt grinned, gesturing to Blaine with an exasperated smile.

You run around; open doors like a gentlemen.

Tell me 'Boy every day you're my everything.'

Cos that's the way we like to do it.

That's the why we like.

Just a little East Coast, a bit of sunshine.

Hair blowing in the wind, losing track of time.

Just you and I.

Just you and I.

Kurt raised his head, as his voice skipped upwards towards his upper register with ease and never losing his startling clarity. Blaine found himself reminded of the first time he heard sing. The sheer beauty of his voice was breath taking. But there was a strength in his voice now that hadn't been there before. Blaine grinned. His boyfriend was belting lyrics.

No matter how far we go, I want the whole world to know.

I want you bad.

And I won't have it any other way.

No matter what the people say.

I know that we'll never break

Cos our love was made in the USA.

Made in the USA.

You always read my mind like a letter.

When I'm cold you're there like a sweater.

Cos that's the way we like to do it.

That's the why we like.

I'll never ever let the world get the best of you.

Every night were apart I'm still next to you.

Cos that's the way we like to do it.

That's the why we like.

Touch down on the East Coast, dinner on the sky rise.

Winter is the best time, for walking under city lights.

You and I.

You and I.

No matter what the people say.

I know that we'll never break

Cos our love was made in the USA.

Made in the USA.

Made in the USA.

Kurt ended with a grin. He turned and thanked Lorna who was staring at him wide eyed.

"I had no idea a guy could sing like that," she blurted out. Kurt merely laughed and dropped a rather generous tip into her case.

"I have a rather large vocal range," he said nonchalantly but flushed at the praise. He loved hearing people compliment any performance. He made sure to drop a few notes into her open guitar case with a smile.

Kurt made his way towards Blaine, smiling at the applause. Blaine who was staring at him with wide eyes.

"So how long have you had that in your back pocket?" Blaine teased, half serious.

Kurt grinned, "It was that or Aftermath for the Year End Recital. I sang Aftermath for the concert but I thought it was appropriate considering that we are in London."

"And our love was made in the USA?" Blaine added, pulling his hands away from Kurt, refusing to give him the bags. "You were amazing."

Kurt preened at that but smiled shyly. "Thanks."

"Like I said, I got lucky. My boyfriend is an ex-cheerleader, sings like an angel and is a model. I win big time."

Kurt snorted delicately at that as he rolled his eyes.

Blaine continued as they started walking, ignoring the stares they got. "You're vocals have improved a lot. I didn't know you could belt it like that."

Kurt shrugged, eying the bags and trying to figure out how to get his boyfriend to hand some over. "My vocal teacher Hardison drilled me how on technique. He said that there was no reason why I shouldn't be able to 'belt' any note on my range. It took months. The muscles in my abdomen that I didn't know about hurt all the damn time in the beginning."

Blaine merely bumped his shoulder into Kurt's and smiled.

Despite their small detour of sorts, they were still a few minutes early at their 'pick up point'. It was Kurt who actually spotted it first. Blaine had been juggling the bags and his phone, trying to message Robert that they were waiting.

Kurt groaned and blushed bright red. Blaine looked up and frowned. "What's wrong?"

Kurt hid his face in his hand and pointed behind Blaine.

The newspaper stand had a rather large advertisement for Vogue and Fashion Week. And it featured a very sexy picture of one Kurt Hummel, lying on a chaise looking delightfully ruffled and poised. It was one of the more 'smart casual' outfits: slim fit low rise washed out jeans and just a waist coast. There was skin everywhere. The matching suit jacket was draped on the other end of the chaise.

"Are those everywhere?" Kurt asked, slightly horrified. It was so awkward to see pictures of yourself up.

Blaine stared at the picture, his mind not helping by pointing out that particular photograph was not in Vogue.

There were pictures, sexy pictures, of his boyfriend up. Said boyfriend was blushing and refusing to look at the picture. Blaine smiled slightly at the familiar posture of Kurt Hummel with his armour on because something was uncomfortable.

Blaine grabbed Kurt's hand in the mess of bags, and pulled him. "Come on."

"What the hell? Blaine!" Kurt stuttered as Blaine pulled him towards the stand, and the poster in particular.

Blaine pushed Kurt towards the poster as he brought up the camera app on his phone. Kurt stumbled and turned to glare at his boyfriend, still blushing as he side-eyed the picture.

"Take a picture," Blaine called as he zoomed in. "It's your first modelling job and you look amazing!"

"You're being ridiculous Blaine," Kurt pointed out, refusing to pose next to a poster of himself.

"You're in London standing next to a poster of yourself advertising the London Fashion Week. You will want to remember this. I want to remember this."

Kurt looked as Blaine and sighed. A part of him did want a photograph of this.

"Come on, Kurt," Blaine verbally prodded with a grin, "you know you want to."

Kurt gave in with a small smile. He stood opposite to his face on the picture, leaning his body at an angle so Blaine had more of side-frontal view rather than full frontal. Kurt dropped his shoulders and tilted his head slightly to one side whilst schooling his expression to match the poster.

Blaine laughed as he snapped away at his boyfriend striking a pose. Once he got several photographs, Blaine bounded towards Kurt.

Kurt took hold of the offered camera and stepped back. Blaine dropped the bags at his feet, once again, and grinned at Kurt. He promptly turned around and tried to hug the poster.

Kurt burst out laughing at the sight. "Blaine!"

"Take the picture!" Blaine called back, his face practically pressed up against the image of Kurt.

Still laughing at his absurd boyfriend, Kurt took the picture. "Okay, you've got your picture. Now please stop that!"

Blaine laughed and then puckered up, as if he was going to kiss Kurt: the photograph, not the person. Kurt snapped a picture.

"Don't you dare, Blaine!" he spluttered out amongst the giggles.

Blaine pouted as he turned away and picked up the bags. Instead he quickly made his way to Kurt's side and stole a kiss. "Yup, so much better than a picture. Even if you look ridiculously hot in it and I will glaring at every guy staring at it."

"You're ridiculous."

"Nope. Just in love with my gorgeous boyfriend," Blaine shot back. "Come on, I see Robert."

Robert quickly took the bags form Blaine after opening the back seat door. The two boys entered the car quickly and they were off.

"So," Kurt started as the car gently pulled off, "why have you been avoiding talking about tea?"

Blaine grimaced, "You noticed, huh?"

Kurt sent him a flat look at that. Sometimes it was so easy to forget how well they knew each other.

"Okay," Blaine started as he tapped his fingers on his thigh. It was his nervous tick. Kurt sighed as he reached across and tangled their fingers together. "Um, despite what my grandmother says, this is actually kind of a big deal. It's one of the first summer regattas. I don't usually go. I mean, my grandparents have a standing invitation but we are more the bottom end of the list. It's tea and rowing and what not, but it's all high class gentry and Lords and Ladies. The press will be there and the 'friends' my grandmother mentioned will be gossiping like crazy."

Kurt blinked as he took in the rush of words form his babbling boyfriend. "So, we are actually going to a 'high class' event and you're nervous about going together?"

"Yes? No?" Blaine shook his head, a helpless look on his face, "I'm nervous that someone will say something that will be insulting and there will be nothing I can do. Not really."

Kurt swallowed at that but his eyes softened. "Honey, we have a far bigger problem than the people. I have no idea how to dress for this and we have less than forty minutes."

Blaine chuckled brokenly but leaned into Kurt's side.

"Hey," Kurt murmured into soft, brown curls, "if you rather we stay in and maybe have tea in the gardens? I don't mind. Everything is being quite crazy lately, so I'm just going with it. But if you aren't comfortable we can stay in."

Blaine shook his head, "No way. This is a proper tea party in England. There is no way I'm not taking you."

"Blaine…"

Blaine pulled back so he could look Kurt in the eye, "I love you. There is nothing I wouldn't do for you."

Kurt merely leaned in and placed a soft kiss on plump lips. He withdrew slight, and murmured against Blaine's lips, "And because I love you I can't ask you to be uncomfortable."

Blaine pulled Kurt in for a harsh kiss, initiating a make out session in the back seat.

The car pulled into a stop just after five pm and the two American boys stared at each other. From the inside of the tinted windows they could see the few reporters hovering around, armed with cameras.

After a rather heated make out session that left both boys blushing when Robert cleared his throat to announce they had arrived at the Manor. After a mad rush to get ready as Blaine tried to calm down Kurt whilst getting ready.

The attire was formal. So blazers were a must but a suit would be overkill. Blaine had opted for a stunning grey and white plaid blazer that hugged Blaine's built. His shoulders looked broader and his wait tiny. Paired with a plain black dress pants, white short under a cashmere burgundy vest. He chose a simply grey tie to match his blazer.

Kurt rummaged his bags until he found the pair of cream dress pants from Marc Jacobs' last line. He paired it with a stunning toffee brown embroidered shirt from his new season and the new blazer that Santana insisted he pack. He found a stunning burgundy tie and pocket handkerchief to add some colour to his outfit. He was wearing all Marc Jacobs, save for his shoes and tie, but Kurt was happy that he didn't look like he copied one of the pictures from the adverts.

After a quick touch up to his hair, and some bb cream that he swore to death he did not use, Kurt was ready. Blaine had gelled down his hair, kissing the pout on Kurt's lips as an apology. Kurt grinned into the kiss because his boyfriend looked every part the proper British boy in a blazer that he couldn't quite keep his hands off.

"Grandfather is waiting at the attendance register," Blaine murmured as Robert got off the car to open the door for them. "We are on the list but it will be rather difficult to find everyone in the crowd."

"How are we on the list if we only agreed to come at lunch?" Kurt asked, frowning in slight confusion.

"Love, my grandmother probably made arrangements the day I told her you were coming," Blaine replied with a shrug, "it would be easier to excuse us last minute than to add us."

"She planned this! And you knew!" Kurt accused, eyes narrow.

"She did tell her friends so I guessed," Blaine placated. "Time to smile for the camera."

Kurt smirked at that, "Oh, that I can do."

Blaine rolled his eyes but got out the car first when the door opened. Their arrival had caught the attention of the press but they weren't important enough to be mobbed. The most he got was curious looks as no one recognised him.

Kurt took a deep breath as Blaine offered a hand to help him out of the car. Breathing out, Kurt grasped his boyfriend's hand and stepped out. He took a moment to straighten his clothing and thank Robert.

It was a female reporter who broke away from the pack, leaving her colleagues behind. She was the only one who took an interest in them.

"Sam!" she called to a man, clearly her photographer, as she made her way to the pair of boys who had just gotten off a car. They were one of the last guest to arrive and all the 'important' guests had already arrived. The Lord running for Prime Minister as well as the latest scandal revolving around Lady Headhurst, and other distinguished dignitaries.

But Darla Garrison knew that face. How could she not? It had been plastered across the fashion section of every paper in London, on the cover of various magazines and not to mention the advertising campaign that was everywhere.

So, what was Kurt Hummel doing at the Henley Regatta?

The chauffeur closed the door behind them and the pair started to make their way towards the register. Darla knew there was no way she would get any comment if they got through. So she made to intercept them.

Holding out her recorder, and praying that Sam listened to her for once, she called out, "Kurt Hummel! A comment please!"

Kurt froze for a split second, looking to Blaine with an expression of pure bewilderment. Blaine looked just as lost as he felt but they stopped and turned, slowly, to face the reporter who had called out to them. Kurt breathed a sigh of relief when he saw it was only one, but hid the grimace when he realised that her action was drawing the attention of the others.

Kurt gripped Blaine's hand in a vice grip, even if he face showed nothing of his nervousness.

The woman, dressed in a stylish if plain black suit, smiled at him, holding out her recorder, "Kurt Hummel! How does it feel to be the talk of London Fashion Week? And are the rumours about you becoming the new face of Marc Jacobs true?"

Kurt stared at her for a moment before composing himself, trying to figure out what to say without humiliating himself. He didn't really have to answer questions before; he mostly stood there and smiled.

"I don't know about being the 'talk of Fashion Week' but this week has been an experience I couldn't have imagined before. And I loved every second of it. Marc Jacobs is one of my favourite designers and I'm honoured to wear his clothing. As for being the face of his brand, I would be beyond ecstatic but I have not been informed of any further arrangements with Marc as I am currently on vacation," Kurt tried to say smoothly, feeling far more nervous than he ever did while walking down the runway.

She nodded, before gesturing at her photographer, "May we have a picture? We are from the London Times. If your friend doesn't mind?" Darla knew what was coming. It would be the scoop of the fashion pages.

Kurt looked at Blaine for a moment as he cut in before turning to the reporter, "Boyfriend. This is my boyfriend, Blaine Anderson. We are joining his grandparents this afternoon at the Regatta."

Darla tried to suppress the smirk as she made a mental note to research who 'Blaine Anderson' was, and how he got an invitation to one of the most sought after Regattas. He obviously was not part of the peerage but important enough that his family would invite his boyfriend.

Sam stepped forward to take the photograph, and the two stood close whilst facing the camera. Despite his icy countenance, there was a smile on Kurt Hummel's face and a shine in his eyes. Darla factored that on him being with his boyfriend, whom he took a vacation whilst in London to see.

"Are you British, Mr Anderson?" Darla asked before the two could move to stepped away.

Blaine looked slightly startled at the attention but pulled on the showman's mask and smiled, "No. I'm half American and half British. I'm visiting my family for the summer holidays. When Kurt told me about London, I insisted he spend some time with me and my family before returning to New York."

"So you met in New York then?" she pressed.

Kurt laughed at that and said in a dry voice, "Ohio actually. We met and started dating in high school."

'Score!' Darla grinned, 'Kurt Hummel attends the Henley Regatta with his high school sweetheart.'

"And just to confirm," Darla added as Sam stepped back, his job done. "What are you wearing today, Mr Hummel?"

Kurt laughed at that, holding his head high. He knew this game. Isabelle had warned him about this question and how to answer it. "Marc Jacobs' latest, of course. Although, these pants are from his last line but I simply love them."

Blaine smiled as he caught Kurt's arm. He could see the interest of the other reporters building, "if you would excuse us. My family is waiting."

With a polite nod and words of thanks from Darla, the two stepped towards the register. Darla made her way back to the group of reporters, just in case anyone else arrived.

"You got that, right?" she asked Sam who nodded as he checked his camera.

"Hey, Darla! What was that? I know it's been a slow day but why did you interview them? Interest piece?" Adam Stanley asked with an easy grin.

"Oh, I just got my piece," Darla threw back as she messaged her editor. "That was Kurt Hummel, the main model of Marc Jacobs show on Friday."

"Blaine Anderson, plus Kurt Hummel, under Henry and Katherine Anderson," Blaine told the attendant with a smile.

The man checked the listed before smiling whilst handing over two tags, "Welcome sirs."

Kurt eyes Blaine attach the tag to his blazer pocket and did the same, noting the tag read: 'Kurt Hummel, date of Blaine Anderson, grandson of Sir Henry and Katherine Anderson.'

The moved past the security and attendants, Kurt hissed, "Your grandfather is a Sir?"

Blaine shrugged at that, "He's knighted for his work in the financial sector and public development. It's not something that's past down. Grandmother is the daughter of a Lord, but her older brother inherited the title. She married down in social standing but they loved each other."

Kurt levelled a glare at him, eyes softening at the story but said nothing.

"Honestly I forgot," Blaine added in apology, heading towards his grandfather who was talking to someone.

Kurt squeezed Blaine's hand that was still in his grasp. It would not be proper to kiss his boyfriend here, no matter how much he wanted to. Kurt had a feeling that public displays of affection were not the norm.

"Grandfather," Blaine greeted with a smile. Kurt echoed his greeting with a, "Mr Anderson."

Henry Anderson smiled as he returned the greeting, "Blaine! Kurt! I was wondering what happened to the two of you! If you would, this is an old friend of mine, Lord Dustin Armbrudge. Dustin, this is my grandson, John's youngest, Blaine and his boyfriend, Kurt Hummel."

Kurt and Blaine greeted the main and shook his hand. He was quite enthusiastic despite the boys caution about being announced as boyfriends in such a crowd.

They made small talk before henry excused them and shepherd them towards the table holding the rest of the Andersons. Kurt was pale as he finally understood why Blaine was nervous about this. Five minutes in and they had met an honest to God, Lord of England.

"Are you okay, Darling?" Katherine asked as they approached and she caught sight of Kurt. "Poppy, pull out a chair. He looks rather pale."

Blaine quickly moved to seat Kurt before sitting next to him, pushing a glass of water into shaking hands.

"We had a run in with a reporter and then met Lord Dustin," Blaine explained in a low voice, acutely aware of the looks they were drawing.

It was Elsa who chuckled, "Don't worry about it Kurt. Just hold your head high. I know it's shocking. I was such a mess when John brought me to my first regatta. I believe we left early because I almost fainted from nerves."

Kurt gave her a bland smiled but drank the water. Blaine's eyes were on him, worried. "I'm okay. Just give me a moment to process. You would think I would be used to this," he added sardonically.

Blaine diverted the attention from Kurt, even as he held his hand, "Mum, where's dad?"

Elsa Anderson rolled her eyes, "He said he had an important meeting he had to attend. I think he just didn't want to sit here. You know how rowing bores him."

Katherine sighed, "I swear I don't know how that boy charmed you, Elsa my dear. A British boy who refused to go to Oxford and hates rowing. I don't know where we went wrong. Fredrick was never such a handful."

Elsa grinned, "Considering we met at Yale, I'm quite happy that John didn't go to Oxford."

Henry chortled at that. "Well, we all know who Cooper got it from."

Kurt grinned at that. He had met Cooper Anderson. Blaine traded looked with him.

Henry turned to the boys, with a worried smile, "Now what is this about a reporter?"

"She recognised Kurt and asked some questions regarding Fashion week," Blaine explained. "Kurt introduced me as his boyfriend and she took some pictures."

"The London Times," Kurt added with a nod, "I'm sorry but it might come out in the paper."

Henry nodded but said, "I'll have my assistant keep an eye on it. It was bound to come out and rather it be printed in a good light that they two of you are dating."

"We mentioned we met in high school," Blaine added.

Henry nodded, "Then they'll print that you two are high school sweethearts."

Kurt and Blaine blushed at that but smiled at each other.

"So, Poppy, Darling. Are you ready to meet some of my friends? I daresay they have been waiting to meet you since I arrived," Katherine asked with a gleam in her eyes.

Kurt looked at Blaine, both their expressions were slightly fearful.

Meeting Katherine's friends was interesting to say the least. They had taken turns to fawn over Blaine while eying up Kurt. It was mentioned, earning the ire from Katherine when one lady mentioned she had hoped that Blaine would date her grandson and was so disappointed to hear he had found a boyfriend in America. That conversation turned humorous when a granddaughter sat down and then fawned over Kurt, recognising him as the new Marc Jacobs model. That had shut the woman up as Kurt was questioned over his career as a model. Blaine was teased in good humour at 'snatching up quite the catch.'

At some point, Blaine had been drawn away by Henry to meet some of his friends and Kurt had left at the hands of the young ladies who had swarmed when gossip spread about who Blaine Anderson was dating.

Dinner had been a jaw dropping experience for Kurt, when they dined at the Gordon Ramsay's restaurant. Henry had merely smiled at Kurt's reaction when they stepped into the Chelsea restaurant and made a comment on how Blaine had mentioned that Kurt was fan of the chef. A chef who had come to their table personally. Kurt had been a daze through desert after meeting one of his idol chefs. He vaguely recalled him spluttering out that he loved his food and had all of his cookbooks.

No one made mention that Kurt would be staying in Blaine's bedroom, rather the family said goodnight and retired. It took some convincing, and reassurance that his bedroom was on the far end of the house, before Kurt would even considering doing anything with Blaine that involved his bed.

Breakfast was a rare family affair. Katherine extracted a promise of a visit over their Spring Break and maybe another on for the next summer. She mused out loud that maybe she and Henry would come to Ohio for Christmas, causing John to choke on his coffee.

Blaine had Kurt in the car and on the way to the hotel on schedule. Although, neither boy could meet Robert's gaze after the previous day's make out session.

Santana was checked out and waiting for Kurt, a scowl on her face. She was not happy, from what Kurt suspected was a hangover of epic proportions. Blaine had to say his goodbyes in front of the hotel, stealing a kiss without care for who was watching.

Kurt found himself bundled into the car before he really wanted to, with Santana telling the driver to step on it. They had an international flight to catch.

"Oh cheer up, Porcelain. You'll see him in a few weeks, and perhaps more when you Skype next time."

Kurt groaned in response, "Just no, Santana."

Santana, for a change, was silent but she stared Kurt down. He shifted slightly in his seat under her gaze. It was like she was trying to x-ray him or something.

"So, did you do the nasty while the family was in the house, or what?" she asked with a smirk.

Kurt flushed red but he said nothing.

"That's not a no," Santana said gleefully. "Oh you did, didn't you? Who used the gag because both of you are so loud?"

Kurt sighed at her crass attitude, "Santana, even if Blaine and I slept together, it's none of your business. Didn't you pick up anyone?"

Santana grinned at that, "Oh honey, I picked up two hot mamas and we had a steamy threesome so thanks for not staying in the hotel. And I was just hoping you didn't traumatise any Andersons. I mean, you and Frodo are going to get married at some point and you want your in–laws to like you."

Kurt smiled at that, "His family is great. His dad is better than he used to be. And his grandmother, Katherine, insisted he visit over Spring Break. Henry, Blaine's grandfather, told Blaine that he would pay for the tickets."

Santana smiled at that, "Good to know."

Kurt went silent for a moment before glancing at his friend, "Turns out Blaine's family is rich. Like his grandfather is really wealthy. They live in a manor. Santana, a manor. Blaine used a town car to show me London. We had dinner at Gordon Ramsay's."

"Like an honest to God manor?" Santana questioned, turning in her seat. At Kurt's nod, she whistled. "Damn boy. You got lucky. Holy shit, so while I was at some hotel you were sleeping in a manor? What the fuck. Is Gel-helmet a Lord or something?"

"Or something," Kurt muttered, "His family isn't in peerage but apparently important enough that they get invitations to things. Well, his grandmother is peerage but the title is passed down through the male line. "

"Things?" Santana wheedled.

Kurt acknowledged her with a grin, "I had high tea with his family at the Henley Regatta, Santana."

"Why are you panicking?" Santana questioned, "I mean, we all Blaine's got dough. He was at Dalton and he drives a BMW and a mustang."

Kurt sighed as he leant back and closed his eyes. "I don't know. Just some people were making comments about I'm such an 'unsuitable match' for Blaine."

"And when the fuck have you ever listened or care about people like that," Santana asked, "He picked you. He fucked up and then he got down on his knees and begged for a second chance. Blaine wants you. You turn him away and I can guarantee he will chase you down, again. He's in love with you. Like I see hearts and want to puke rainbows at his heart eyes." She paused to meet Kurt's gaze.

"Relationships are complicated enough without worrying about other people. I mean, his family likes you, right?"

Kurt nodded.

"Then what's the problem? You're in the clear."

"I don't know," Kurt huffed, "Maybe all the shocks are finally catching up with me. It's been one hell of a week."

"It's going to be interesting to go back. I mean, the adverts are going to be everywhere in New York plus Vogue's cover," Santana grinned in delight, "I wonder if anything will be different?"

"Let's hope not," Kurt snorted, "I can't imagine dealing with the crazy and jetlag at the same time. Plus Wren is going to have my ass for taking those days off. I swear he will die trying to convert my major to opera."

"Again, when the fuck have you actually cared about what other people say."

Kurt smirked at that.

They rest of the ride was quiet until the finally got to the airport. Santana was scary enough to score the window and aisle seats again, and awesome enough to use the frequent flier miles to upgrade them to Business Class.

The checked in their luggage and passed through security rather quickly. Santana's glare may have had something to do with that. Kurt just went along with the necessary evil and reaped the rewards.

"Come on," Santana pulled Kurt away from the gate, "We have time and we can go to the Business class lounge.

Business class lounge was just for business class passengers, having food and drinks. But more importantly, free Wi-Fi. Santana tapped away, checking in with Isabelle and her emails.

Kurt drifted towards the newspapers and searched for the London Times. His curiosity got the best of him as he opened it to the society pages. And there he was. A rather large photograph of him and Blaine, took up part of the page. The comment next to the photograph made Kurt smile.

Blaine Anderson (Grandson of Sir Henry Anderson) with his boyfriend and high school sweetheart, Kurt Hummel, Vogue model.

The small article quoted him about his presence at the Henley Regatta and stated his outfit was Marc Jacobs. It also mentioned that Blaine was the youngest grandson, and was raised in Ohio.

Kurt smiled. It was actually a rather pleasant if unexpected article. He wondered back to Santana who was speaking on the phone. She made a grabbing gesture to the newspaper in Kurt's hand. The boy sighed and handed it over.

Kurt opted to take a seat, put on his headphones and zone out until they had to board. Santana would tell him what was happening when she had a free moment. Despite all the craziness that had happened over the last week, Santana had proven herself to be one hell of a manager slash PA. And Kurt was grateful she came.

The songs on his iPod shuffled and Kurt pondered on what would be a good gift for the Latina, as a thank you. She had raked in a few outfits from the show, and Vogue. And Kurt had some money to splurge, and she would deserve it. Inwardly, he cursed that he didn't think to buy anything in London.

'A killer pair of heels, maybe?' he pondered over ABBA.

Santana had been finishing up with Isabelle over phone and she was thankful that she read what

Kurt had gone looking for. Grinning, she told Isabelle about how Kurt Hummel was in the Society Pages of the London Times. The elder lady was gleefully laughing on the other side of the Atlantic. After confirming that they would both be at Vogue for an hour after landing.

"We need to debrief the whole project. Everything else had been consolidated, I'm just waiting on Kurt and you. It will be an hour max before you guys can rush off," Isabelle explained. "We've had more interest in this than we expected. Whilst the Marc's line is doing extremely well, there has been a lot of interest in Kurt, and by extension, you."

"Of course," Santana replied. Vogue would be sending a driver. "That's fine with me but Kurt will be cutting it fine. I'm planning to crash after we get back to New York but Kurt needs to head to NYADA. He's got class at ten."

"I'll have food and coffee ready for you. The car can take you back to your place, so you can crash and Kurt can get his things before taking him to class," Isabelle planned, making a note on her desk, "that boy works too hard."

Santana snorted. "I think if he's idle he'll go crazy."

"Keep an eye on him."

"I will shove the sleeping pills down his throat if he refuses to sleep on this flight. I got his back, whether he likes it or not."

Santana finished up the conversation, before ordering some food. Kurt seemed to have dosed off in the overstuffed sofa, slumping into it. She packed the newspaper into her carry on whilst was at it.

~0~0~0~

The pair landed in New York just before six am. Kurt had grumbled when Santana told him of the meeting at Vogue but thanked her when she explained how he now had use of the car to get to NYADA on time. While Kurt would have liked the luxury of time to have a nice, long hot shower, he would make do with a quick hot shower before class. The one very important skill he took away from the whole modelling experience was how to get ready on the fly.

Wasting no time, the two had freshened up in the small airplane toilet before landing, and made a beeline for their luggage and then the gate. Unlike in England, the driver was there waiting, holding a board marked 'Vogue: Kurt Hummel & Santana Lopez'.

They finally got through the ridiculous traffic and arrived at Vogue dot com around half seven. They were shuffled past the main desk, getting calls of congratulations as they made their way to Isabelle's office.

"Kurt! Santana!" Isabelle greeted them with a grin. "May I be the first to congratulate you both on an excellent runway show? It was the most talked about show at London."

The pair greeted her and made a break for the food and coffee on the table. Isabelle looked amused.

"You two don't eat like models," she joked, "but then again, I know how terrible plane food is."

Kurt swallowed as he blushed, "Sorry Isabelle. But I have to eat on the go here. I do need to get to class."

Isabelle waved him off as she perched on the edge of her desk. "It's fine. Eat while you listen. Sit."

Kurt and Santana took their seats in the chairs by the table, each nursing a plate of food.

"So, let's start from the beginning, shall we?" Isabelle started off, her iPad in hand, "The response to the spread was quite good and according to our trackers, only got better after the show. There are currently 7 billboards in New York advertising Marc Jacobs featuring Kurt, ten busses and posters at newspaper stands. We had an unexpected strong reaction to the human interest piece we did on Kurt. Congratulations Kurt, you made 'Google's 20 Most Searched Topic' this week and there has been a spike in interest in you, Santana, after the runway show."

Kurt froze as he glanced at Santana. Even Satan stared a little shocked at the calmness of Isabelle as she them they were famous.

"Santana, you need to see Carrie about your new jobs. We've had at least 20 requests for you; one being a runway."

Santana choked on her coffee.

"Kurt, you'll need to choose some jobs. I know you don't want this to be a career but it's a once in a life time opportunity. And you have the time now. Carrie is also handling you."

Kurt sat back with a sigh. He knew they he would do some more modelling. It paid far too well to look away. And he loved the attention. It was a different type of spotlight, but still the spotlight.

"The spread as well as photographs are being run by other magazines this coming week. With Miranda's attention, everyone wants to run the spread. As a Vogue Models, you both need to do some interviews. People are loving the whole Cinderella story behind this. And it drums up publicity."

"So what happens now?" Kurt finally asked as he stared at his coffee.

"Santana is a vogue model. So, I suggest you grab every job you can," Isabelle said with a smile. "Kurt, you're still be PA. It just happens you're a part time model as well, who is the talk of the town. You can turn down all the jobs if you want."

Santana looked at Kurt with a worried expression. Porcelain sighed again.

"Frankly, Isabelle, I don't know if I want this. I really didn't understand how big this all was. I mainly took the job because I now have enough money saved away for rent and fees." Kurt confessed, "I went to London on a whim because I would be able to see Blaine over the summer. But this is crazy. A reporter at the Regatta recognised me. I was interrogated about being a model by the daughter of a Lord while at the Regatta. My face was plastered on a wall at the airport."

Isabelle fell silent, "Take a week. See how you feel. Don't say no just yet."

Kurt gave her a helpless look.

"Kurt," Santana said softly, "I know this isn't what you dreamed of. But, you're got something. I will be working my ass off to get where you are now. And it wasn't just luck that you got Seo Joon to look at you. You've got something in this. Even if you use it as just a way to pay the bills."

"Well, I did have fun," Kurt relented.

"So, spend the summer modelling and NYADA. See how you feel at the end."

Isabelle cut in, handing the iPad to Kurt, "Here's some more incentive. This is your fee payment from Vogue. The last payment is for you being the face of Marc Jacobs for this line. It's a one year fees payment in one amount. The legal department sent your information to the accounting department to calculate the tax on your earnings. They will contact you. "

"Holy Shit!" Santana swore as she peaked over his shoulder. "You've earned how much in the space of three months?!"

Kurt looked at it numbly. "That's a lot of money."

Santana snorted at that. "You can prepay rent for the whole year plus NYADA fees for this summer and next year!"

"With a few more high-end jobs this summer, you can have enough money for all your college fees," Isabelle wheedled.

"Why are you so intent on having me model?" Kurt asked as he handed back the device, paler than normal.

"Kurt, you're a vogue model. It's good for us. Plus, you're the hot topic that has even Runway wanting you. I got a call from Miranda Presley herself regarding them doing a spread and an interview with you. She got her modelling department to send a job offer. She wants you to do a Runway cover for an up-and-coming Runway designer."

It was almost nine when Isabelle finally let them go, and Santana hustled Kurt into the waiting car. They made their way to Bushwick.

"Go, shower and make yourself human again," Santana ordered, "I'll have a coffee ready for you. You have 20 minutes if you want to make your class."

Hurricane Kurt was ready in 19 minutes, almost kissing Santana when she handed him a travel mug filled with coffee and his already packed school bag.

"Metro card?" She questioned as Kurt made a beeline for the door.

"In my wallet! Thanks Santana! I swear I'm buying you a pair of Jimmy Choo this weekend!"

"I'm holding you to that!"

And he was gone.

Santana sighed as she slumped slightly. She was tired. All she wanted was a shower and her bed. And that girlfriend pillow to snuggle up against.

Vaguely, she wondered where Rachel was.

~0~0~0~

Kurt power walked to the subway station. Thankfully, NYADA was not that far but he walked as fast as possible. He only had one class, and it was a theory class at that. But he really didn't want to miss out on anymore. Then he had to meet Wren for his vocals lesson.

It was a familiar sensation when he entered NYADA. The eyes that stared at his back. Kurt tensed as old instincts flared up. Instead, he held his head high and walked to class, refusing for them to see any fear.

He was early.

Kurt entered with a sigh of relief. He made his way to a seat in the middle of the class. Not in the front (he wasn't that eager) but not in the back to show his disinterest in the subject.

Silence descended on the half-filled room. He could hear the gossip. It didn't surprise him nearly enough. He should have realised this would happen.

"Holy shit! Kurt Hummel is this class?!"

"I read he attended here in Vogue but I didn't think I would actually meet him. He's met Marc Jacobs!"

"He's on the billboard on Broadway!"

"I didn't realise he was that Kurt Hummel. Some people have all the luck. I mean, he looked like that and sings like a damn angel."

Kurt bit back a groan. 'Of fucking course they saw him in Vogue.'

Thankfully, the teacher walked and the lesson started. No one sat next to him but he could feel the stares.

By the time, class was over, Kurt was ready to make a beeline for door. Unfortunately, he had to meet with his teacher (Lore? Lure?) and hand in the make-up work. So, Kurt made his way to the front of the room acutely aware of the stares and the fact that no one had left the room yet.

"Sir?" Kurt half asked as he held the folder of work, "I have the work for what I missed."

The man gave Kurt a nod and took the folder, skimming it. "Well, Mr Hummel. Everything seems to be in order, this last assignment is only due on Friday on work we are covering this week. Would you like more time?"

Kurt smiled at that but shook his head, "I studied music privately. I know most of what's covered in this course."

The man looked at Kurt, "You can test out of it if you have a certificate of a recognised institution, like Trinity or Royal Schools."

Kurt brightened at that. It would mean one less course. "I did Trinity for piano and theory."

"Grade?"

"Finished 8."

"Bring your certificates to the next lesson. We'll head over to admin to sort this out," he said with a smile. Johnathan Lyre paused before he asked, "How was London?"

Kurt froze at that, not quite believing that his teacher was asking him about London.

"It was quite the experience," Kurt said slowly before excusing himself, citing that he had a voice lesson.

The corridors were empty compared to during the actual semester, but far busier than Kurt expected it to be. NYADA ran various courses during the summer, and had the practice rooms open for the students, so it made sense.

But the whispers were worse in the corridors, especially the building that housed the practice rooms.

Kurt just kept head high and walked to his lesson, trying not to tense under the stares. He was always the odd one out. He hadn't really made friends after getting into NYADA. The Winter Recital had not done him any favours as everyone talks about how he had been invited to audition and then given a place half way through the year. That was not done. Not even Rachel's jaw-dropping solo could hide the gossip about him.

Carmen had done him no favours by accepting him. It set him apart and a school as competitive as NYADA, which did not make grounds for any friendships. He worked with others when a project called for it, and for some insane reason Cassandra July did not tear him down, but every attempt at making some sort of friendship with anyone in his program was met with total shut down. Sure, he was friendlier with those doing a musical instrument as a major; they didn't view him as a threat.

Getting the solo at the Year End Recital hadn't helped in any regard. Kurt was sure he was more infamous at NYADA than popular. It was lonely at times.

After knocking, Kurt entered the designated practice room. He faltered slightly when he saw Hardison as well as Wren in there but greeted them as he dropped his bag on the free chair.

"Kurt Hummel," Cole Hardison greeted with a smile, "You know when my student asks for time off because his job is taking him to London; I really don't expect to see them on the cover of Vogue of all places."

Kurt flushed at that but kept searching for the folder with the music sheets Wren had given him.

"No, I just was offered a deal I could not refuse." Kurt admitted.

Hardison snorted in amusement at that.

Wren, on the other hand, was not amused. "Did you learn anything on your little holiday?"

Kurt resisted the urge to give him uptight teacher his 'bitch-face'. "I learnt how not to fall on my face in front of everyone in the fashion world, that my boyfriend's family is Knighted and that I should consider doing a semester at the Royal School of Music in London."

"Oh," Wren leant forward, curious, "have you had a change of heart? Your voice is made for classical music after all."

Kurt grinned but shook his head at that, "My boyfriend has family in London. We discussed maybe doing a semester over there. He would love to do a course on music production and classical training for my voice seemed like an idea. But my heart is set on Broadway."

Wren sighed, "Well, let's begin."

"I'll let myself out. Come see me after your lesson, Kurt," Hardison said with a smile as he left.

~0~0~0~

The week had been crazy like Kurt has never experienced before. Not even the crazy that was the New Directions had prepared him for the insanity that had become his life.

The gossip followed him everywhere at NYADA and at work. Wren seemed to be the only one immune to it, pushing Kurt's vocal training with each lesson.

The only place where Kurt felt invisible was in a crowd. He was just another person going somewhere in the bustling city. Although, he chose not to tempt fate and kept far away from the newsstands or areas where the billboards were.

Isabelle gave him the week off, but asked him to come in on Friday to go over some job offers and the next week's schedule. For that, Kurt was ever grateful to his fairy godmother.

Everything sort of fell into place again. Kurt had to talk his dad out of flying out to New York when he called. Burt Hummel proudly boasted how the cover of Vogue was now hanging in the garage. Summer was a busy time, so Kurt got his dad to compromise and plan to visit at the end of the summer. Carole was over joyed and Finn thought it was so cool that his brother was on the cover of a magazine.

The major argument Kurt had with his dad was over money. Kurt had tried to get his dad to use his college savings to pay for Finn's fees. Finn didn't have a large college fund that was almost completely drained during the first year. Most of Kurt's college fund came from his mother's life insurance that had been put into a savings fund after her death.

Considering that Burt had took out a loan to pay for the new house and the hospital bills in junior year, and all savings had gone towards the wedding and Dalton; money would be tight without Finn's fees on top of that. Kurt argued that instead of the extra debt, he could pay his own fees, and they should rather use the money sitting in his savings to subsidise Finn's fees. That way, they could still make the payments for the mortgage and save up for Finn's next year's fees. Not to mention OSU was cheaper than NYADA, so they could also pay for residence with the amount of one year's worth of NYADA fees.

Burt and Carole did not want to take Kurt's money, despite Kurt's instance. It took Kurt giving his father the full figure of just how much he made during the modelling job to cave, with the promise that they would repay back the money after Finn graduated, so at least Kurt would have a savings fund just in case.

After that, he got a tearful call from Finn thanking him. He had hoped to get a scholarship with football that year to ease the financial burden but he hadn't made the first string yet and he couldn't qualify for academic scholarship. Kurt merely told his oaf of a brother that he was doing his 'big brother duty because I am older than you Finn.

It was not only the money that got Kurt to rethink taking a modelling job. But rather, in retrospect, how much he enjoyed it. And the email from Miranda Presley that Isabelle had forwarded to him.

He had an opportunity to shine, so why the hell was Kurt Hummel hesitating?

Blaine skyped often from London, only now his grandmother would often demand to talk to Kurt too. Katherine was a laugh, making Kurt wonder how in the world John Anderson was their son. It seemed Blaine took after his paternal grandparents. She often talked about how the two of them should spend a year studying in London. Or how they should visit her soon, perhaps at near the end of the summer? Or should they come down to New York?

Kurt loved talking to her. He didn't have any living grandparents so he mused that this is what it must be like to have a grandmother.

Blaine, on the other hand, joked that he no longer got to talk to Kurt without his grandmother trying to hijack his calls. Blaine, who had half a mind to jump on a plane back to New York, family vacation be damned, voiced his thoughts only to smile sheepishly when Katherine added that it would be a good idea and perhaps she and Henry could come too.

Apparently, it was up for discussion.

The only cloud over the week was Rachel. The brunet had been rather sour upon their return. After class, Kurt had crashed hard in his room, only to be forcefully woken up by Rachel, who had returned from a late audition.

Her volume in questioning had woken up a vengeful Santana.

It had not been pretty. Rachel had been furious, practically shouting that they had lied about their 'small modelling job'.

"Shut it, man hands!" Santana groaned, "I'm jetlagged and tired, so I'm telling you this once. We didn't lie about zilch. What we didn't realise is how big this would be. Now if you don't shut up I will tear your precious vocal chords out of your throat with my bare hands!"

"Santana, calm down," Kurt tried to mediate, "Rachel, we didn't lie about anything. I'm also shocked by all the pictures. But I did agree to the advertisement campaign but I guess I didn't really understand. But we all signed the confidentiality agreement, so you had some idea too."

"Kurt, there is a picture of your on Broadway! You didn't mention that!"

Kurt sighed as Santana cursed in Spanish. "Rachel, I didn't know the locations of the billboards; just the number. I still don't know. I'm sorry if it seemed like we lied but we didn't. Now if you don't mind, we are both jetlagged like hell and I have class tomorrow morning. So goodnight!"

Rachel huffed but said nothing. She retreated to her room. Kurt turned to Santana, who was glaring at the retreating girl, and said in a quiet voice, "It's like West Side Story all over again."

Santana snorted, "You may have expected her to be happy for us, but I knew she would blow her top first. I just wish I wasn't so damn tired so I could enjoy it more."

"Santana…"

"Chill porcelain, she'll come around. She always does. The difference between now and high school is the time it takes her to change from Miss Star into a friend."

Kurt looked at the Latina and sighed, knowing she was right.

"Goodnight Santana."

"Night Kurt."

~0~0~0~

"This is your file," Isabelle explained as she sat at her desk. Kurt had dropped by after class on Friday for the meeting, "I had Cassie send it up. It's your basic profile and portfolio. We used the pictures from the spread, although if you are going to a model, we will need to set up a photo shoot for your portfolio pictures."

Kurt nodded as Isabelle continued.

"Now, you've had a lot of attention and quite a few job offers. Most just want the attention having you in a spread will draw. Like this Levi Jeans advert. It's been planned for a long time and they just want to add you as a last minute model. But having you in the ad would benefit them more than you."

Kurt nodded but smiled as Isabelle kept going.

"However, you have some once-in-a-lifetime offers here. Dior wants you, and Runway and GQ. There is also an amazing offer from Soviet Inc. to be a main model for their brand that would really send you out there as a model and Hugo Boss wants you for a perfume add. And on Marc recommendation, Giorgio Armani wants you for the Milan Fashion week in August."

Kurt blanched at the list before swallowing and nodding.

"Now we need to know if you plan to keep modelling. If you don't, we'll run an article saying you're concentrating on college and will model part time for us exclusively. That should get most people off your back."

"Isabelle," Kurt cut in, "I've been thinking about it and I think I want to keep modelling."

"Really?!"

Kurt grinned at his excited boss and nodded, "So, which jobs would you recommend considering that this may be a long-term thing?"

Isabelle beamed at that as she sat back in her chair. "Well, to start, you have to do the Armani show at Milan. Soviet will send your image out to the public and it would be stupid to say no to Dior, even if they are only giving you a small appearance. Hugo Boss is a maybe. The offers for the covers will have to be done ASAP. They want you because of the human interest not because you're famous."

Kurt sighed at that, "Just how busy am I going to be?"

"Well, you are starting work tomorrow but you're doing four hours seven days a week. That leaves your week ends free with no classes, right? We can swop your hours around, but you need the 28 hours a week minimum. Most shoots with your part will be done over two days, at most five. So it's workable. Honestly, we need to use this to make you a constantly popular model. That's the best long term plan."

They worked on the schedule for the next hour, sending off emails to jobs Kurt accepted (on Isabelle's recommendation) and his declination of other jobs. They built a tentative schedule, with only Runway sending a reply almost immediately. They wanted him to come in the next day for the shoot and interview so that Kurt could be on the cover for the next issue. Isabelle reckoned that GQ would also reply by the Saturday as they would also want Kurt in time for the next issue. Dior was tentatively scheduled for next month time while Soviet was for two weeks' time. HB hadn't given a date yet. And Vogue wanted him in the next issue; so he had a set monthly job as a model for the next three months.

Saturday, Kurt arrived at Vogue early. Cassie had handed his file over to Ria that morning, who would be his PA who would go to locations with him while she organised his schedule from the office.

Ria rushed him to the Vault and stylists, prattling on that even if he didn't need help getting a look together it was 'company policy'.

Neal took one look at him and waved him away.

Kurt grinned as Ria groaned, already dialling on her phone, ordering for the car to come around now.

"I guess I should just schedule the car early because that is going to be the norm with you, huh?" she jokingly asked as she nodded towards Neal who was attacking a model's hair with a brush and a grim determination. Kurt looked back and winced. The girl had permed her hair, from what Kurt could recall, and it was a frizzy, hot mess.

They exited Vogue as Ria looked through her PDA. "Right! Only one job today and we should be back by one at the latest, depending on the photographer and editor. And let's see…."

Ria paled suddenly as she looked up from her phone to stare at Kurt. "You're doing an interview and the cover for Runway? You have to meet Miranda Presley!"

Kurt nodded, feeling slight apprehensive at what he was just about to do. "Good thing we're early," he tried to joke.

Kurt was in the town car to Vogue at twelve. And still in awe at what he had just done.

Arriving at Runway Offices, Kurt was ushered through security and up to the third highest floor. He was left waiting in a conference room with a visibly nervous Ria. Kurt had sat back and put on his game face. He had notice the sudden hustle outside the room as people moved out the way.

And the she appeared. Kurt got his feet instantly, vaguely away of Ria also standing.

Miranda Presley walked down the corridor and into the room, behind her was a small contingent of assistants, stylists, a photographer and a designer.

Miranda Presley herself was overseeing the interview and the photo shoot. She had chosen the clothing for the cover picture.

The rest were a blurred.

Kurt could vaguely recall answering the questions as Miranda Presley sat in on the interview, who added her owns questions.

'Do you use a stylist? No? Good.'

'Why style do you prefer?'

'When did you become interested in Fashion?'

'Why are you not studying fashion?'

And then she practically directed the photo shoot. She wanted him casual for the cover, something Runway rarely did. She wanted his casual yet well-dressed look.

And then he was back at Vogue, being hugged by Isabelle who had gotten another email from Miranda Presley herself, complimenting Kurt.

~0~0~0~

Life moved on. Kurt was running a full schedule, like he did during the term, but instead of classes, he was picking up modelling jobs or extra time at Vogue dot com.

Summer classes were going well, especially since he could test out of two of his current theory classes and another two for the upcoming year. It freed up some unexpected time which was actually a relief.

Actually being in class was stranger than before. Kurt had grown used to the stares and the gossip that surrounded him. He had tried to stay under the radar, which had been easy enough considering that no one in the performance major dared to approach him. Kurt found himself becoming friends with the music majors, and Adam.

Between dumping Adam and the Midnight Madness challenge, Kurt knew he had more of an infamous reputation at NYADA. Which only increased when he was offered a solo at the Year End Recital.

But the attention he now received was completely different. For the first time, people rushed to sit next to him. People were always asking him questions, or trying to be his friend. It was a weird version of being popular. Everyone wanted to which celebrities he knew or met and how could they get into parties.

It left Kurt bewildered. He had never been popular, not even while he was in the New Directions or the Warblers. He ignored the hanger-ons and rushed off queries. He kept to himself mostly. Or he tried. Even Hardison found it amazing that Kurt was on a billboard in Broadway. The man had even signed the permission slip for Kurt to audition for roles.

So Kurt did. He looked through the lists of upcoming auditions; trying to find something that he would actually stand a chance at actually getting. Not a classic male role. He took Hardison's advice to heart though:

"Kurt, you're good. But so are a lot of other people. You are going to hear a thousand no's for every yes. Try out for roles, but also for the chorus. Any experience is good experience in this business."

Which is why Kurt was flipping through the paper with a pen in one hand. Santana who had been working almost nonstop for the past couple of weeks since London, just walked in to the kitchen, freshly showered.

"Sup Porcelain?" she asked with a grin.

"Satan," he greeted back. While Santana worked her ass off to build her reputation as a model. Kurt had done the Runway and GQ covers, while signing the Soviet and Hugo Boss contracts and being one of the featured models for the next issue of Vogue. Despite it seeming like a hectic workload, everything was fairly spaced out.

"Auditions?" she questioned as she eyed the paper.

Kurt nodded absentmindedly, "Hardison gave me permission. In fact, he thinks it would be good experience. And I have time now. If I don't get anything then I'll pick up more hours at the office."

Santana snorted at that as she made herself a cup of tea. "Why are you working so hard? It's not like you need the cash."

Kurt sighed. He hadn't told anyone the discussion between him and his dad. He sat back in the chair. "Actually I do. Finn's college fund is almost finished. I offered dad and Carole my fund to pay for his because they can't pay off the new mortgage and Finn's fees. I paid for the summer classes and I have enough for next year's fees. Working for Isabelle pays my rent. If I save the rest of the money from modelling, I need to save money for two more years plus expenses. Even with the cash from the new contracts, I need the extra cash. Just in case."

Santana looked at him with a weird look in her eyes. She was silent for a moment before nodding slowly.

"Only you, Kurt."

Kurt shrugged. "It means no shopping but I'm getting a lot of free clothes so it's not too bad. Dad says he'll only use the money for this year. That they will save up for next year. But if they can't, at least I will have some money."

Santana nodded before changing the subject. "So, what are you auditioning for?"

Kurt sighed at that. "I don't know. I don't fit the typical male lead. The biggest auditions right now seem to be for female roles. You know Rachel has been preparing for the Funny Girl call back for weeks now."

Santana snorted into her tea but said nothing at the glare Kurt sent her. Rachel was in the shower, from what they could hear, and would be there for a while. While she had been auditioning most of the summer, she had only gotten offered a few chorus parts, which she turned down. She was working as a waitress to pay the rent but often said she would only accept a proper role. Fanny Brice was her dream. And the final call backs were in a week!

Rachel Berry was not a chorus member.

"Are there any prospects?"

Kurt looked at her with suffering look, "There's a Pinocchio audition?"

Santana burst out laughing.

~0~0~0~

Walking through New York was something Kurt was sure he would never get used to; not when he grew up in Lima. The only thing missing was Blaine. His boyfriend was still bemoaning being 'stuck' in Europe. His parents has refused to let him 'cut their family vacation short' even at the request of his grandparents.

However, walking through New York now was a little more different. It was something one just couldn't get used to.

Seeing your face everywhere. Kurt ducked his head as he walked past a newsstand that had him on the cover of Vogue, GQ and Runway. Thankfully, most people don't recognise him unless he is standing near an advert of some sort.

He had gone to the grocery store on the way back from NYADA and the girl behind the till recognised him. She started begging for his autograph, drawing the attention of everyone standing in the line behind him. It grew a little awkward when she left the till to grab the magazines and then asked him to sign them.

Shaking his head, Kurt tried to focus on the mission at hand: get to the audition venue. Thankfully, it was a small auditorium not on Broadway; rather off-off-Broadway.

Which meant, Kurt could dodge the infamous billboard.

He had been to four audition already. At least he got to sing at two of them. The other one, the director took one look at him and said, "Thanks for coming but you're not what we want right now."

On the third audition, they turned him away when he handed over his resume. He didn't have enough 'experience' to audition.

So far, he had no luck, which might have been a good thing. Hugo Boss came back after the shoot and offered him a one year contract to model five of their fragrances. So his relatively free schedule just filled up, especially when Cassie explained to the Hugo Boss rep that Kurt would be going back to school full time come September. Hugo Boss needed to shoot three of the five adverts before September. And it was mid-July already.

Kurt walked into the old theatre and joined the line in front of the desk. A woman was walking down the line, handing out the audition forms.

"Thank you for coming. Fill out the form, and attach your profile. We are only auditioning for Lost Boys, Mr and Mrs Darlings, mermaids, red Indians and Hook's pirates. We apologise but the main roles have been cast except for Wendy. Auditions last till the end of July. We expect to start rehearsals mid-August."

A few people groaned at that. It meant the producers had already cast the major roles to specific actors.

Some walked out.

Kurt sighed but stayed in line. He took the form with a smile and received a flicker of a glance from the lady. He ignored the look, moving to a free chair to fill in the basic information form. He paused at the section for the part he wished to audition for, before writing 'Lost Boy'.

From his sling bag, Kurt pulled out his profile. It had his NYADA resume as well as he experience and written recommendations from a few of his teachers. And the permission slip. There was a small note on his resume, under skills, that he modelled and he had basic gymnastic skills (from his time on the Cheerios).

He walked back to the desk and handed the paper work to the blond man. He briefly looked through the resume, made a note on his clipboard and then handed Kurt a number.

'45? How many people are auditioning for a chorus part?' Kurt wondered, incredulously. He was ushered into the next area. He joined yet another line. Sort of. Everyone was warming up in some way.

Kurt sighed as he took a seat. He had already warmed up his voice before leaving the apartment, and an irate Santana. Humming kept his vocal chords stretched and ready. And his morning yoga session stretched out his body sufficiently.

The nerves took over as he sat quietly. His leg bounced, tapping incessantly against the hard wood floor. It seemed that they were taking people through already but even more people were still entering. That should be a given. There was still two more hours for walk-in auditions to sign up today. Walk-in auditions would last a week.

For the first Kurt really understood how hard it would be to make it on Broadway; that no matter how much talent you had, you needed every advantage you could get. Rachel stumbled onto a chance in a million with Funny Girl. No wonder she was going crazy about getting the role.

Kurt wished he could talk to Blaine but his boyfriend was still in Europe for another week.

It almost an hour before his number was called in the batch of auditions. Kurt followed the three other males and one female into the auditorium, his number firmly in his hand.

"Can audition 41 set up onto the stage?" came a woman's voice. A table was set up half way up the auditorium which seated, whom Kurt guessed, was the Director, writer and producers.

The woman confidently walked up onto centre stage. Kurt watched the audition process with careful eyes. Even though most of auditions happened in the same sort of way, different directors ran thing differently.

This director had you wait on stage while they went through the file. Then you had to sing one song. She was sent away with a polite rejection.

So were the next two performers.

Number 44 got to sing and read from the script for a pirate.

Then Kurt was called up.

Standing on an empty stage was intimidating, if one was not used to it. Kurt stood still, resisting the urge to fidget but relaxed enough to look like he was not about to kneel over from nerves.

For his song choice, Kurt went with Aftermath, considering how well it showed off his range and technique. He then had to sight read a song form the play and read from the script.

And it was over before Kurt could really process it.

The panel was talking amongst themselves.

'That's a good sign,' Kurt mused, 'they haven't send me away yet.'

"You're a NYADA student?" the woman asked, her eyes firmly on what Kurt assumed what it resume. "Is your gymnastic experience from the stunt class? NYADA does not offer specialised gymnastics."

"No," Kurt replied, trying to keep his voice level as it echoed through the room, "I was on my high school cheerleading team. I learnt basic gymnastics from my coach."

It was one of the men who spoke next, "Can you demonstrate a basic layout?"

Kurt looked startled as he asked, "Now?"

The man nodded. Kurt shrugged at that and mentally thanked Sue Sylvester for the insane training regime that still haunted him.

Moving to the far side of the stage, Kurt did a short run up, thankful he was wearing Doc Martins that had a grip, and moved into a cartwheel, flip, twist and a round off to end.

Kurt smirked as he stuck the landing. It might have been a while since he had done that but it did feel good to know he could still. Calmly, he made his way back to centre stage. He knew why they had asked him to do that. Rumour was that this Peter Pan production would have acrobatics and 'flying'. Best case scenario, Kurt could get a Lost Boy part where he actually spoke.

Every advantage.

He was thanked and informed that he would receive a call the next week if he was given a part.

Kurt walked away being cautiously optimistic about getting a part in the production. Peter Pan was his best bet, considering how well it would fall into his schedule. And with that, he adjusted his bag on his shoulder and made his way to the Vogue dot com offices.

~0~0~0~

The summer was moving faster than expected. Kurt found himself on the couch on a rare free day on the last day in July. He had been so busy recently, it seemed odd. Stranger still, was Santana and Rachel's free schedule at the same time.

The three had curled up on the couch, readily to spend the afternoon watching Mamma Mia in sweatpants. They had barely made it past the opening scene when Rachel just had to talk.

It was the first time in almost a week she had free time with her flatmates. The last time the three of them 'hung out' together was to celebrate her getting the part of Fanny in Funny Girl. A part of her resented how fast Kurt and Santana became friends and the amount of time they spent together since Santana joined Vogue. They were always busy together, or talking about something about modelling. But, Rachel knew she would be back to spending time with Kurt when NYADA's term started again.

"Well," she started as the song just finished. They had watched this movie enough to know she had some time before the next song. "Rehearsals are going fantastic. The director and producer are both stunned that this is my first Broadway part. The only thing, and isn't this just crazy, they want me to have an understudy? I mean, there isn't anyone else who can play Fanny as well as me, so I told them there really is no need. I will be in every show, guaranteed."

Kurt and Santana traded looks; Santana silenced quickly by Kurt. She sat back and let him take care of this.

"Rachel," Kurt said in a fond voice. This was the same version of the crazy 'I will storm out if I don't get my way' Rachel from high school. "It's nothing personal. It's just standard Broadway practice to have an understudy just in case something happens. And to give the main actors the option of a day off."

"I know that, Kurt," she replied snappishly, "but there is no need for that with me."

Kurt rolled his eyes at that as he returned his gaze to the television. "As much as you wish to believe that, investors will want more than just your word."

Rachel huffed. "Well, how would you feel if they booked someone else to do your modelling part as a back-up?"

Santana snorted at that. "All lead models can be replaced by a secondary lead because on the day, the designer or photographer can take one look at you and hate you."

"But it's different on Broadway," Rachel sat up, insistent. She ignored the movie as she forced Kurt and Santana's attention to her. "You two would have to know what it is like to have a lead role on Broadway to truly understand but it's not something you let go off. To be replaced is a ridiculous insult to my talent. At least, the producer understands how I feel but the director insisted in holding auditions for my understudy. Whoever the little upstart is, I will make it very clear to her that she will not be stepping foot onto my stage."

Santana shook her head but sat back into the couch as she replied dryly, "Of course you will, man hands. But I want to know, since Porcelain has graced us with his presence, is how he now has free time?"

Kurt smirked at that, "Last week of classes this week. So it's purely revision for the course end tests. Isabelle sent me home early because I've put in more than enough hours this week."

"Modelling?"

"Two more one day shoots for Hugo and the trip to Milan in the first week of September. Oh, and some stuff for Vogue. Isabelle mentioned Runway wants me to model in the next issue too, so that will be done in the third week of August."

"Shouldn't you be studying, then?" Rachel asked with wide eyes, "I can help you prepare for the practical finals considering my experience."

"Unless you're classically train, I don't think you can help me Rachel. It's two theory exams and Wren's evaluation. I'm not too worried."

"Good for you," Santana snapped back, "this is my last break before the working the whole week. Cassie is a monster when she's booking shoots. At least you have an excuse to spread it out. Standing around looking pretty is tiring."

Kurt hummed in response, enjoying the frustrated look on Santana's face. "And Blaine's coming back on Friday. He says he'll be coming straight here because they signed the papers for the 1st of August."

"In that case, I request you have sex in his place because I will rip your dicks off if you disturb my sleep. Man hands and her latest boytoy is not as loud as you and gelhelmet."

Kurt blushed but shot back, "I'll take that into consideration."

Rachel stared at the two bicker back and forth, silently reaffirming the nothing that they were spending too much time together. She also noted that a Kurt didn't mention any call backs for any of the parts he auditioned for. In NYADA, no matter how much a star Rachel became, Kurt was step behind her.

When she won the solo at the Winter Recital, he was asked to audition and sing a solo too. He challenged her to a Midnight Madness and won. She hadn't wanted to believe that he had thrown the diva off but it was true. Cassandra July, who couldn't stand her, liked Kurt. Slowly, the praise she always heard, Kurt received too. Apart from piano lessons, he received no previous formal training; so of course it would seem his progress was amazing! He had so much more to fix. And then, he was chosen at the freshman soloist for the Year End Concert.

When he became a model, Rachel didn't care much. Because she knew that it was just an extra job. It wouldn't matter on Broadway. But then, there is was. On the damn billboard in the middle of Broadway. It wasn't fair. He didn't work as hard as her. It was her dream, her destiny to be on Broadway and now people noticed him because of his modelling.

It was a relief to see that he hadn't been cast, even as a chorus, because of his newfound fame in the fashion world.

Because now it was back to normal; she had a lead part on Broadway. Come the new semester, everyone would know she was the star of the students.

Kurt will get there, eventually. He just wasn't as talented as her. Nor could he fit in to as many diverse roles as her.

And as much as the ugly thought about her friend made a part her cringe, a larger part bubbled in satisfaction.

She was Rachel Berry; she was born to be a Star. No one would shine like her; or brighter.

~0~0~0~

Kurt shooed his dad away from the kitchen while Carole helped him make a quick but healthy lunch. They had come to New York for the weekend. That was the longest his dad could afford miss work at the garage, all things considered.

And Kurt was as busy as ever. He had just written his tests and summer classes had ended. He had a two week break before the new semester started up. Now, he focussed his time between Vogue and modelling, taking the odd audition while he was at it. More often than not he had been turned away due to his lack of experience. A kind director told him to audition for the NYADA plays for some easy experience. He could do that now he was a sophomore rather than a freshman.

"Is that your schedule?" Carole asked in shock as she stared at the wall next to the fridge. There were three schedule's up. Santana's was fairly fully booked but not back to back. Rachel's was full with Funny Girl and a few shifts at the diner. Just enough so she kept her job there. She had argued that Fanny was a working girl and the job was good research. And that she liked having a small savings for emergencies.

"The pink one is Rachel's, Santana's is red and mine's the white one," Kurt replied over his shoulder.

"Kurt, sweetie, the white schedule is the most full," Carole said in a worried voice.

"Not really," Kurt said as he cut up the sandwiches. "Now that summer classes are done. I have more time. I only have two one day shoots left and the trip to Milan in September, over my normal Vogue hours. I haven't got any more modelling jobs lined up after that. And apart from the odd audition, I don't have anything else to do so I have plenty free time."

Carole couldn't resist teasing, "So, you've been showing Blaine around New York then."

Kurt flushed at the reminder. Blaine had flew into New York on his way to Westerville. The use of bribery and schedules, Kurt managed to get the apartment to himself for Blaine's six hour layover. They honestly missed each other and planned on cuddling and talking about what was to come. Blaine was moving in to the apartment down the hall with Sam within the next week.

For the first time in a year, they would be in a relationship with each other, and in close proximity. They had to work out their relationship. And it really did start out innocently. Kurt found himself wrapped up in Blaine's arms as they snuggled on the couch. They were just going to talk but couldn't resist the lure of being able to physically touch each other after weeks apart.

Kurt could tell you who started it. It was a chaste kiss on lips, neck, skin. A drag of fingertips against the soft, warm skin. The slow bubbling of heat under their skins that made them crave more.

Kurt blushed at the memory what how visit went.

Blaine shipped most of his things from Ohio and moved in down the corridor. But honestly, the two often migrated to which ever apartment was free. If Santana or Rachel were free, they were at Blaine's; or vice versa. In the rare occurrence where Sam wasn't working a shift at the diner while the girls were free, he proved to be a true 'bro' and spent the time at Kurt's place.

Free, alone time together, meant Kurt and Blaine could do more than just talk about their relationship. It was the first time they were truly alone together; not having to worry about parental interruptions. But at the same time, their relationship matured in ways neither expected.

Each boy was more secure in themselves, in their own individual identity that hadn't quite been there before. And they were learning about giving each other personal space and time. A couple, to Kurt's amused realisation, did not need to spend every waking hour together. In fact, that would be unhealthy for a relationship. What was hard, was rebuilding that trust. Knowing Blaine was out and trusting him. There were moments for Kurt, when he looked in the mirror and wondered if he would be enough this time.

"Kurt?" Carole broke through his musings. Kurt hummed in response as he turned to look at her. "Are you okay, sweetie?"

Kurt smiled and honestly replied, "I'm good, Carole."

He finished up the sandwiches. He moved to carry the platter to the lounge but Carole stopped him with a hand on his arm.

"Burt! Finn! Lunch!" she called to be heard over the television, "They should eat at the table. Heaven knows they have probably seen that episode of Top Gear already."

The two lumbered into the kitchenette and sat at the table.

"Is Blaine going to joining us for lunch?" Burt asked as he eyed the sandwiches and looked mournfully at the plate of ships he knew he wasn't going to get. Finn was already eating.

Kurt glanced at the clock, "Yes but he might be late. He had the morning shift today."

"How did everyone get a job at that diner anyways?" Carole asked with a smile as she sat down and helped herself to the food.

Kurt snorted. "Spotlight diner has a reputation for singers. The owner was trying to save cash and rather than hire performers, he hired waiters who could sing. Santana got a job there. I have Vogue but Rachel needed a part time job, especially during the holidays. And it has flexible hours. Santana quite a few weeks ago, but managed to talk the owner into interviewing Sam and Blaine when they got here. I think the guy was just grateful to have staff that could actually sing."

Burt nodded as he ate his sandwich, still eyeing the plate of chips.

It was Finn who asked, "And what about Tina? Isn't she coming here?"

Kurt nodded and swallowed his food before answering. "Tina is moving into the dorms for the first year at least. She's coming up to New York next week, and will be staying here. Mike's visiting and Blaine offered his couch. She said she will look for a job when she gets here but I know Sam and Blaine both mentioned her to Gustave. So, if nothing else, she could probably get a job at the diner."

"Seems like all you glee kids are still sticking together," Burt smiled.

Kurt grinned at that. "Puck's at OSU with Finn. Quinn's at Yale. Britney is at MIT. Mercedes is at UCLA. Mike's in Chicago but I know he's been trying to get a transfer to Julliard."

The table descended into relative silence as they ate, only to be interrupted by both a knock on the door and Kurt's phone ringing. Carole waved Kurt's towards his phone as she made for the door, knowing who was behind it.

"Blaine, honey," she greeted with a smile as he opened the door. The boy, young man really, had obviously stopped at his apartment to shower and change, if the loose curls were any indication. And the bright bowtie.

"Carole!" he smiled and hugged her as he entered. "How are you?"

"I'm good. Kurt said you would might be a little late. We just sat down to eat," she replied as the she watched him. Blaine was obviously comfortable in the apartment, dropping his keys and wallet into the bowl by the door and hung his coat on the free hook. She smiled slightly as he glanced at the mirror and tried to push down his unruly curls. "Come on, I set some aside for you, just in case."

Blaine smiled gratefully as they entered the apartment, eyes searching out Kurt. The smile dropped as he made a beeline for his boyfriend who was on the phone but looking wide-eyed and pale.

At Blaine's movement, Burt turned to look at his son. Carole watched from the entrance way, worried at Kurt's paler than normal appearance.

Blaine was already wrapping an arm around Kurt, long past any embarrassment over small gestures of affection in front of the elder Hummels. He seemed to be listening to the conversation Kurt was having with a frown.

"No, I have a part time job but those rehearsal times are fine. During the term, I tend to work weekends mainly and the hours are flexible…. Yes… Start this week? Weekdays? I should be able to but the first week of September I have to go to Europe... Yes, it's part of my job… What do I do? I work for Vogue dot com, the number of my employer Isabelle Wright is on my resume. I'm also a model for Vogue so I need to go to the Milan Fashion Week."

There was silence in the apartment as everyone's attention was on Kurt, and his conversation.

Kurt blushed, "Um, yes. That is me. That billboard? Yes. But, I won't take on modelling jobs during term time so I will be free for rehearsals. Why? Honestly, between classes, work and rehearsals, I won't have time."

He seemed to listen before answering, with a bright smile, "That's perfect. I'll be there Tuesday evening."

He hung up before hugging Blaine tightly. Blaine made an 'oomph!' sound at the sudden hug but hugged back instinctively.

Kurt was grinning, laughing slightly in disbelief as he turned to face his parents.

"That was Gwen Mugg, the assistant director of Peter Pan; the production I auditioned for," Kurt explained.

It was Blaine who caught on first.

"You got part?!"

Kurt nodded, beaming, "I've been cast as the Lost Boy, Matt. It's a speaking part and a chorus part."

Blaine laughed and pulled Kurt into a hug, kissing him regardless of the fact Burt was sitting not even five meters.

"You're first Broadway part! Congratulations!" he babbled, "We need to celebrate!"

"Broadway?" Burt asked as he stood up, "You auditioned for a Broadway part? You didn't tell me kiddo."

Kurt was laughing as Blaine refused to let him go, "It was a long shot. But it gets better."

Burt moved across to hug his son, quickly followed by Carole and Finn. He raised an eyebrow in question.

Kurt flushed, "They cast Sean Carmichael as Peter but they want me to his understudy. I get to play Peter Pan at least once a week when the show starts!"

And then there was a Hummel Family group hug with Kurt in the middling, laughing.

Santana returned to a celebration and the good news that evening, with Rachel half a step behind her.

"What are we celebrating?" she asked with a raised eyebrow at the bottle of Champaign opened on the table and the glasses everyone seemed to be holding. She smiled at Carole as she was handed one too. Rachel hung her coat and took the alcohol with a look at Finn.

"I get to tell!" Burt burst before Blaine could even opened his mouth. Blaine pouted but snuggled into Kurt's side on the couch as the girls joined them in the 'living room'.

Kurt rolled his eyes but didn't interrupt.

"Kurt got the part as Matt, the Lost Boy in Peter Pan!" Burt said with pride.

Santana gasped, "No way. The 'there's a snowball's chance in hell I'm getting a part in that play' role! Holy shit, Porcelain!" Kurt merely grinned behind his glass.

Rachel smiled and nodded, "That is fantastic, Kurt! It's a brilliant start to your Broadway career! Even if it is just a chorus part!"

"And a speaking part!" Blaine added, "But that's not all."

"What?" Santana egged, "What else? Gelmet, you can't leave me hanging like this or I will pull out the razor blades!"

Burt was grinning proudly, "Kurt is the understudy for Peter Pan."

"Holy FUCK! Did you cash in all your good luck this summer or something, Hummel?" Santana shrieked as she moved to tackle slash hit Kurt. Blaine, wisely, ducked out of the way.

Rachel's smile froze. "You're the understudy to Sean Carmichael?"

Kurt was being hugged and then taking punches to his arm form Santana with Blaine trying to get out of the war zone.

"Yeah," it was Finn who answered. Finn who hadn't really wanted to see Rachel again. She was his first love; and his first heartbreak. "He's going to be Peter like once a week. It's awesome, right?"

Rachel swallowed and nodded, "Yeah… awesome…"

~0~0~0~

Everything slowly fell into place as the summer drew to a close.

Santana was able to work as a model near full time, but kept her job singing. She also signed up for business classes out of all things at NYU. When asked, she shrugged, "It's a good idea to have a back-up plan. And I actually have money now."

Rachel was loving the part of Fanny, and the directors were loving her. She still grumbled about Kerry, the understudy who Rachel swore might kill her for her part, but Rachel was the undisputed star for Funny Girl.

Blaine worked, choosing to earn his rent than reply on his parents. He pouted when he realised he couldn't go to Milan with Kurt because it would be during his freshman orientation at NYU. He still grinned like an idiot every time he saw a picture of Kurt around New York. And his grandmother was demanding that Kurt come to London for a proper White Christmas.

Sam found himself becoming Kurt's best guy friend, excluding Blaine. And that the klaine couple were the most awesome wingmen in the history of bromances. And, to every shock and horror, Santana had a heart. He had taken a leaf out of Kurt's book and applied to be a model at Vogue.

Tina spent two weeks living in Casa Crazy but managed to get a job working in a boutique that was within walking distant from school. Mike visited, for a week. A week in which Blaine lived with Kurt, giving them his room. Kurt had smiled at that, quietly telling Mike that they knew how hard a long distance relationship was.

Kurt fell into the rhythm of work and rehearsals, with the odd modelling jobs. Working on Peter Pan made him giddy. He knew, without a doubt, that he wanted to be on stage more than on camera. The first rehearsal was awkward, even if it was just a read through. He had been introduced as actor for Matt and the understudy. Sean Carmichael was friendly, which shocked Kurt because he half expected the actor to hate him for being his understudy. Rehearsals varied between script reading, acting, singing, and dancing and stunt routines.

It was Jenny Dogger, who played Wendy, who recognised him first. And it was during the second rehearsal. They had been practicing flying across the stage held up by thin ropes. Kurt found himself not being freaked out by this. Then again, some of the stunts Sue Sylvester had been crazier.

"That's where I know you from!" She suddenly said in the middle of a break, as she stared at Kurt. Kurt looked at her with a confused look. "It's been bugging me for since we met! You're Kurt Hummel!"

Kurt nodded but looked at her warily, "Yes. I did say that was my name."

She shook her head, "No. Kurt Hummel, the vogue model! That's why I recognised you! You're on the billboard near the Gershwin Theatre."

"Huh," Sean added as he looked as Kurt, "She's right."

Kurt shrugged, "It's a part time job."

~0~0~0~

Boo made this a three shot of epic length. Blame him not me. I'm pretty sure I won't be writing anything more in this verse unless Boo bites me again. (Boo, please don't)

Cover III: 38 Pages, 19500 words approx.

Screw you Boo! Let me sleep!

Edited 2014-09-29

Please let me know if there are any mistakes I missed.

-Amira