Well, this one is long overdue once more. I've had the busiest, craziest, most intense few weeks. I've hardly had a second to myself. I'm on my week break at the moment so I can get a couple of Chapters out this week! Thank god! I can only apologise for the wait...
FIRSTLY, this Chapter is dedicated to Mot51. I didn't want to reply to your message until this Chapter was completed. Your message made me cry and I was so utterly touched and honoured by your words. I sincerely wish you the best and am so unbelievably happy that this story provided you with some happiness at the very least. This one is for you.
A massive thank you goes to courtney (court4short) who helped me organise my thoughts for the plan for this Chapter and the next. THANK YOU so much for your loveliness and for being so insightful and such a cheerleader for this story : )
Megiko-chan – I have to say an ENORMOUS thank you for your message and for linking me to your ADORABLE and frankly, insanely talented drawings. To think this story inspired them in some way it FAR too crazy to believe. I am so happy that this story made you smile through a tough time. I'm sending lots of best wishes.
WELL, HASN'T FEBRUARY BEEN INSANE FOR EVERYTHING GLEE RELATED. Inparticularly, for US Kurt and Blaine fans! SPOILERS AHEAD SO SKIP TO THE STORY IF YOU'RE AVOIDING THEM!
While I thought the SB episode was incredible and AMAZING writing (plus the image of Darren eating biscotti and licking his stirrer will strangely stick with me for a long time), it was SLS that did me in. I really can't believe half of the stuff that went down in that episode. I'll not go into the sheer HILARITY that is Puck and Lauren. Lauren's kick ass and the moment Puck groans "damnnnn" when she walks away... I knew my heart was sold. EVERY character had a KICK ASS story and so much development (except I can do without douchebag Finn. WHERE IS OLD FINN?) but then we turn to Kurt+Blaine. Oh my heart.
The character development we got for Blaine was beyond ANYTHING I expected. RM shocked me! WIGYA was inspired and I know some people were a bit unsure about it... it is, to me, one of Glee's BEST and more INSANE performances. For the LGBT community, the fact a young guy is seen to be serenading another guy and expressing his sexuality – to me, that's incredibly brave and wonderful of the writers. YES, it was awkward and too much but that's the point of it all – Blaine's a teenager who's learning and who is fuelled by romance and his heart/desires. I thought it was brilliant. The moment he looks Jeremiah up and down KILLS me and not to mention the "baby girl" moment... it'll always be one of my favourite Glee moments now! Darren was perfection at that song.
Can I just say, Kurt doodling their names together said he was plotting weekend outfits. I gasped because I wrote that same thing at the beginning of my previous chapter. It just made me smile! Smitten!Kurt is EVEN MORE gorgeous and adorable than I'd ever been able to imagine.
The best and most incredible part was obviously the coffee shop scene. To avoid an EPIC rant about how awesome and touching it was, it was wonderful to see Kurt's maturity and honesty and fun to see Blaine's lack of experience and lack of game. I loved that. It made his character REAL and ENDEARING. Chris' teary eyes ... well, I have no words. The way it was written, the acting (and Darren dude, you stepped it up!) and the sentiment behind the words. THE SLOW BURN, OH THE SLOW BURN. Thank you Glee Gods. I'm not concerned about them as so many other people are... I KNOW there are spoilers about drunk!Blaine and him possibly questioning if he's bi sexual regardless of RM's comments assuring us Blaine is gay ... I'm kind of ridiculously excited to see drunk!Blaine! Bring him on... but I'm praying for tipsy Kurt too :D
The fact they're modelling the relationship on When Harry Met Sally .MIND. It's one of my top 5 favourite films. Always has been. You guys all know I'm a sucker for the slow burn...!
There's just so much to say and I shall NOT bore you any longer... safe to say, Gleebruary has been awesome ;)
For those who have seen the photoshoot released of Darren today... well, jesus mary mother of god and all that is holy. Safe to say, it improved my Valentine's Day massively.
Finally, I know some of the canon info has caused elements of this story to become AU (e.g. the fact Kurt isn't a boarder at Dalton) but I hope it doesn't take anything away from the enjoyment. I, personally, am completely besotted by canon Kurt+Blaine so far.
So, all I'm left to say is HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY/SINGLE AWARENESS DAY! I hope you like this Chapter. I really loved writing some of the moments in here! Please enjoy ...
"Kurt?"
Blaine laughed, low in his throat and feeling the warmth of his own breath bounce back from Kurt's hair. He couldn't move, he lay cocooned in the duvet, wrapped up in Kurt's arms and pressed into the pillows. The muffled response was nothing short of precious but Blaine lost feeling in his right arm approximately twenty minutes ago admist his epically long session of mapping Kurt's sleeping face and cherishing the tiny breaths he would make at random intervals.
"Kurt? Kurt?" he whispered, a little louder now.
"Mmmhhphhh?"
Blaine lay on his back, Kurt's face pressed into the crook of his neck, Kurt's arms looped tightly around his waist, clutching at the material of his t-shirt and legs in a tangle. The heat was intoxicating causing his eyes to droop and fall heavily but nothing was as overwhelming as the closeness of someone else. It'd been odd to fall asleep with someone, to let them lie beside you and share such a personal and open moment but there was nothing, Blaine had decided, more special than Kurt being the one he did it with. He'd never experienced such intense feelings and simply wanted to bask in them and focus on the way his body felt tense with emotion, if only he could free his arm and stop it tingling fiercely with pins and needles.
"Kurt I need my arm back," he tried, laughing as he spoke. The vibrations seemed to rouse Kurt a little more.
"It's my arm," Kurt drawled, lazily, tugging Blaine closer and sighing happily. He was obviously dazed with sleep.
"Not that I'm an ace at biology but I have a distinct feeling that it's attached to me therefore, I've pretty much got the right to declare ownership." It was petty and silly but Blaine laughed once more, enjoying the giddiness of the moment.
"Mine," Kurt groaned almost exasperated, pressing his nose into Blaine's neck, Blaine feeling the warmth of his breath, causing a frantic shiver to travel down his spine.
"Can I propose a deal?" Blaine asked with a chuckle.
"Whatever," was the mumbled response, still lazy with sleep.
"If I have my arm back I'll let you put all of that gunk on my face like you've been begging me to do."
Kurt woke in an instant, his face lifting immediately from Blaine's body and hovering somewhere just about his face. Kurt smiled, the world sharpening into focus and revealing Blaine, hair mussed and cheeks flushed with warmth, below him.
"Oh wow," Kurt sighed out, his lips dragging into a slow smile, "good morning."
Blaine smiled wide and wriggled his arm free, using it to push himself a tiny bit higher on the pillows.
"Morning sleepy."
"You mean what you said?" Kurt asked happily, sliding himself up to rest his head against Blaine's chest without leaning on his dead arm, "will you let me?"
"You have my full permission."
Kurt shuffled his shoulders, pleased with himself. Blaine let out a deep sigh of contentment, wrapping his now awake arm around Kurt's waist.
"I knew you'd cave," Kurt teased, sitting up suddenly smirking.
With his eyebrows raised in indignation, Blaine gasped. "So sure of yourself aren't you?"
"Always," Kurt affirmed, nodding proudly. He seemed to trail his eyes over Blaine's body slowly with a bite of his lip. "Can I try something?"
Blaine nodded, wrapping his arms free. Kurt grinned and shuffled down under the covers to push Blaine gently into a sitting position. Kurt lay down, his arms outstretched and cheeks tinged pink, and gestured for Blaine to settle down.
Nobody had ever done that before. Yes, Blaine had been given cuddles and close hugs from friends but he'd never breathed into them, never melted close or snuggled deeper into someone else before. He'd always wanted to.
Blaine accepted instantly, laying his head lightly against Kurt's shoulder and finding it difficult to breathe as dainty fingertips brushed their way along his back and held tight to his waist. He was clasped tight but still didn't sink into the embrace. Kurt, although taller, was thinner and much more delicate.
Kurt could feel it. It wasn't as close and certainly wasn't as snug as before. "Blaine I swear if you think you're going to break me, I'm going to break you."
Blaine closed his eyes. "I'm sorry. This is a little new to me."
"You want me to make a list of all of things that have been new to me in the past few months? Because we'd be here for hours." His voice was laced with slight annoyance and a hint of desperation. "I want to be able to give skin-tight hugs like you do. It's always me snuggled up and wrapped up in you so it's only fair," he sighed, talking into Blaine's curls, "plus it gives me a perfect chance to play with your hair."
Blaine felt his shoulders melt. He let his weight press down into Kurt's body and held tight himself, pressing his own nose into the space below Kurt's jaw where the scent of strawberry face cream and vanilla was overpowering. Kurt's entire body dissolved into cascading butterflies as Blaine nuzzled closer.
Lithe fingers began to diffuse each singular curl, brushing them aside then knotting them together once more. Blaine's scalp tingled at each slight touch sending shivers down his spine and a blanket of fizziness deep into his chest. "It's so nice."
"My fetish will never cease," Kurt murmured, drunk on the sensation of pulling Blaine tighter against him.
"Good," Blaine whispered woozily, "because I need you to never stop doing what you're doing right now."
Blaine felt Kurt's other hand, the one he could see, toy with his own fingers that lay just over Kurt's heart. In seconds, their fingers were laced together. Blaine began to draw idle patterns across Kurt's palm, eliciting a shudder from beneath him.
It was silent for a moment, only the sound of birds outside of the window in the very early morning and Kurt's heart beating quickly in his chest, before Kurt spoke dreamily and broke it.
"I never ever expected it to feel this..." His voice trailed off in awe, the words couched in true feeling and emotion.
"Much?" Blaine offered.
"Yes. This much. It's like I can't stand it sometimes."
Blaine felt his throat thicken. Nothing could sum up the way those words made him feel, the way they grounded him but sent him souring simultaneously. They were so inexplicably true.
"I love you," Blaine breathed out, feeling Kurt's breathing hitch momentarily, "I never thought it was possible either."
Kurt's brain flooded with emotion, unable to really hold onto the moment or process a coherent thought. He was able to do this, to say flat out what he felt and to feel confident that he could trust Blaine implicitly with anything. As their fingers knotted together even tighter, Kurt pressed a warm kiss to Blaine's forehead and followed by nestling down, closing the gap of those last few millimetres before sleep took over again.
Kurt brow furrowed deeply in concentration as he positioned his tubes of lotion, bottles of toner and the many applicators on his small glass shelf by the sink in his en-suite.
"Blaine?" he called, smiling excitedly and pressing his fingers together in a steeple shape.
Blaine dragged himself off his bed, folding his European History notes into a text book. He could hear the happiness in Kurt's voice, the anticipation of being able to fuss and preen someone else.
"Look at you," Blaine teased, leaning against the frame of the door, still in his shirt and tie, "you're positively giddy."
Kurt hopped on his heels with a grin. "Sit," he urged pulling Blaine's elbow and forcing him into the chair positioned close to the mirror.
Blaine groaned theatrically. "So what are all of these things?"
Kurt frowned, sliding a wipe from the long packet. "These... things... are products for your skin," he rolled his eyes, "and they're the reason you always touch my cheeks."
Kurt flushed at Blaine's very obvious smirk. "Oh you noticed that?"
With a playful nudge to Blaine's shoulder, Kurt narrowed his eyes. "Yes. Now be quiet and tilt your head back." Obediently, Blaine did as he was told, biting his lip to stop the laughter threatening to break forth. Kurt was impossibly adorable and nothing was as sexy as Kurt Hummel on a power trip. "You're going to need to loosen... this," Kurt advised, motioning to Blaine's collar and perfectly positioned tie.
"You're in charge. You do it."
Indignantly, Kurt sighed, breathing back a smile as he sauntered in front of Blaine, kneeling to tug the tie free, looping it over his neck. Blaine kept his eyes on Kurt, still biting his lip cheekily. He was enjoying it far too much. "You look so impressed with yourself right now it's sickening."
The burst of laughter from Blaine was silenced quickly as Kurt swiped a freezing cold wipe across his skin and close to his lips.
"When did you get into all of this?" Blaine asked, his head tilted against the back of the chair as Kurt busied himself slowly wiping the ice cold liquid over his temples and cheekbones.
"I used to watch my mum when she put on her make-up and she always talked to me and explained what she was doing," Kurt smiled slightly, his eyes flickering to avoid Blaine's, "and when she died, I tried to remember some of what she said. I found some of her old products and it went from there."
Blaine listened intently. He knew it was difficult for Kurt to talk about her and even remember her but it was something he felt so proud and privileged to hear. He wasn't part of the Hummel family and had no right to such information really but the fact that Kurt felt comfortable enough to tell him things so personal and cherished... it meant the world.
"I wish she could see you now," Blaine whispered, hoping he wasn't crossing a line, "she'd be so proud I bet."
Kurt swallowed, eyes focused on Blaine's forehead and the line of cream ready to be spread evenly. He could feel his throat tightening. "Maybe."
"Definitely," Blaine urged with a smile.
"You have good skin you know?" Kurt rushed out, obviously changing the subject, "I mean, it needs severe moisture but it's really clear and pretty soft for a guy."
"I don't do anything to it. Soap and water is all."
Kurt felt himself groan inwardly. Boys. They had no idea how simple it was to keep their skin in check.
"I can, um," Kurt tried, feeling almost ridiculous in the moment, "do it for you every now and then if you'd like. Only if you'd like because I know you were forced into this by coercion."
With a warm smile, Blaine turned the chair to face Kurt. He reached for his hands, watching as Kurt's eyes widened, and drew him down onto his lap, his legs either side of the chair.
"This stuff smells good," Blaine said simply, "it smells of you."
Kurt could feel that creeping, tight swooning feeling tug at his stomach. He shivered all over as Blaine's eyes deepened mere inches away.
"So is... is that a yes?" Blaine nodded with a slight laugh.
"Yes."
It was then that Kurt attempted to regain coherence and compose himself. He reached for the next bottle of intense moisturiser and got back to work, still sitting in Blaine's lap happily. Every other second they'd glance at each other to either smile or simply let their eyes connect.
After a period of silence, Kurt leaned back a little, swiping his finger finally over Blaine's cheek with a grin.
"Thank you for letting me do this."
Talking wasn't necessary. Instead, Blaine leaned close and planted a lingering kiss on Kurt's lips. "Anytime."
The next morning, Blaine was shocked to find Wes up early and typing at his computer frantically. Wiping his eyes, Blaine peered over to the desk. "Any harder and you'll break the keys. What are you doing?"
Wes turned, a pained expression on his face. "Kate."
As Blaine climbed out of bed to sit on the edge, he yawned, stretching wildly. "What about Kate?"
"Prom. That's what. She's pissed at me because I forgot to tell her the date and now she has to tell her boss that she can't work the late shift and she said she's, and I quote, disappointed in me."
Blaine chuckled, yawning still. "Ouch."
"Oh that's it Thornton, laugh it up," Wes snapped, still prodding the keys with frustration, "your life's perfect, you're all loved up and giddy and it's all peachy on your side of the fence while I'm over here trying to claw myself back into my girlfriend's good books."
"Just say you're sorry," Blaine tried, eliciting a look of 'are you serious?" from Wes, "and promise her you'll make it up to her."
"Why don't you date her," Wes retorted sharply with a huff.
"Wesley it's eight am and I'm too tired to list the reasons why that is completely out of the question, my friend, so I'm going to leave you to it unless there's something else bothering you."
"There is actually," Wes began, swivelling in his chair to follow Blaine as he walked towards the bathroom, "we haven't talked about song selection for Regionals. They're approaching now and the Board have been in contact regarding set list deadlines. I need to submit them soon so I'm scheduling a meeting tomorrow. We've seen so many contenders this term and we know some of our good group numbers but it's the soloist selections we still need to tie down."
Blaine swallowed hard. "Ok and what do you need to talk to me about specifically?"
"Well, you'll be auditioning won't you?"
"Obviously."
Wes rolled his eyes. "And Kurt will also want to audition too."
"I'd expect so," Blaine smiled.
"Blaine, there's only one solo spot."
It took a few seconds of silence for Blaine's brain to catch up. He felt something tug in his chest making him shuffle uncomfortably. It wasn't an enormous problem but he wished there was a chance they could both perform and both share the spotlight.
"Is anyone else going up for one? Jeff? Nick? Thad?"
"Just you and Kurt I think. Jeff's got soccer to focus on and Nick's still struggling after his throat infection."
"Ok, well I'll let Kurt know. He has a list of solos in his back pocket so I can't imagine he'll have any issues." With that, Wes returned to his freak-out leaving Blaine to shower and get ready to swing by to collect Kurt before classes began.
In thirty minutes, Blaine was dressed fully, hair gelled and blazer buttoned. He grabbed his satchel and ignored Wes' painful whines before closing the door and giggling to himself as he turned down the corridor.
"Just the guy I was looking for."
Blaine shook his head with a smile. He turned around to find Thomas half way down the corridor wearing his signature smirk.
It took Blaine seconds to throw himself into a hug. "What the hell are you doing here?"
"Prom stuff," Thomas grinned hugely, "Dad roped me into helping out as I apparently didn't serve the school enough last year what with my role as head of the Prom committee. Jeez."
Blaine was animated. He was thrilled to see his best friend and it was all the better for being unexpected. "I can't believe you're here," he sang happily by Thomas' side as they both began the walk to Kurt's room.
"Well, I thought you'd kiss my sorry ass if I didn't come to visit you first."
"Too right," Blaine smirked.
"I've got some news too," Thomas stuttered out, his eyes wider than usual. Blaine knew that look.
"Who is he?"
The lopsided grin to grace Thomas' face was enough to cause Blaine to nudge his friend's shoulder playfully. "His name's Harry and he's in one of my classes. We met in the library."
Blaine burst into laughter. "You're always complaining about law at Brown being so tough that you spend so much time in the library... and now you've met someone... in the library. This is golden."
Thomas swatted Blaine's arm in mock irritation. "Blaine he's amazing."
It was uncharacteristic but the small squeak that escaped Blaine's mouth was enough to warm Thomas' heart. His best friend grinned stupidly.
"Do I get to meet him?" Blaine asked, bouncing on his heels, his eyes sparkling.
"Maybe. If he's free I might ask him to Prom here if he doesn't mind the cliché."
"Tom..." Blaine began but stopped, unsure as to how to finish. He'd watched Thomas struggle with romance for years, never finding someone who truly made him feel the butterflies' one should feel. He'd always thrown himself into sport and his studies, never sparing time to date and when he did, they'd always end badly. He was a catch but remained uncaught.
"Yes I know, you're going to be all Blaine and tell me to be careful-"
"No I was going to say that I'm so happy for you."
Thomas' cheeks tinged pink for a second, not going unnoticed by Blaine who cherished the moment as the only time he'd ever witnessed his best friend unhinged. "So, we here to collect the boyfriend?"
"We certainly are," Blaine started, smiling fondly, "and I'll warn you. He's not a morning person."
With a sharp knock on the door, Blaine felt his heart race as it did every morning at this moment. Being away from Kurt for even a night made the meeting once more at 8:30 am, all the more exciting.
"Come in!"
Blaine threw a mock agonized look in Thomas' direction as he pushed open the door. The affection rose in Blaine's chest at the sight that was revealed.
"If Peterson has the nerve to call me out on this essay and tell me I'm still not hitting the level expected of precious Dalton Academy then I swear I won't be responsible for my actions. I'm used to the wrath of Sue Sylvester but his guy's like freakin' Hitler."
Blaine tilted his head in amusement, watching Kurt from behind throwing his supplies and notebooks into his bag, straightening his blazer, preening his hair, filling Pavi's seed...
"Oh."
Kurt gasped dropping the tiny cup of millet on the floor. His eyes spread wide and fingers rushed to push the seed back in as Thomas chuckled beside Blaine.
"I didn't know you were there. What must you think of me?" Kurt asked, positioning his bag over his shoulder and reaching the door with a wide smile in Thomas' direction.
"It's good to see you again Kurt," Thomas said warmly, "and Peterson's a pain in the ass, I will definitely agree with you on that."
Kurt laughed, glancing down in slight embarrassment. Blaine realised they hadn't looked at each other yet. "It's so nice to see you too."
"You ready to go?" Blaine asked, ducking his head to capture Kurt's eyes momentarily. As he did, his heart skipped and skin flushed warm. Kurt's eyes softened with a smile at the sight of Blaine's outstretched hand. Their routine...
"I'm ready." Kurt's fingers slid into Blaine's neatly. He could feel his heart hammering against his ribs as they began to walk to class, their shoulder rubbing with every other step. Kurt closed his eyes a fraction and breathed in deeply as Blaine softly stroked a pattern on the back of his hand, squeezing slightly before dropping their hold to descend the staircase. Thomas stepped down first and continued in front of them so Blaine took the opportunity to quickly turn, grabbing Kurt's wrists and pulling him quickly towards him. "Blain-"
The kiss was deep and over far too soon, Kurt's eyes rolling back in their sockets and arms tingling with goose bumps.
"Come on," Blaine said eventually, reaching to straighten Kurt's blazer lapel out of pure habit, "the quicker we get to class, the quicker the hell's over."
Peterson graced the corner of Kurt's work with a large red B-, much to Kurt's apparent shock. At McKinley it'd have achieved an A+ and probably a box of chocolates for the fact a mild bit of effort was injected into it. At Dalton, it was still 'good effort Kurt, more focus is needed' or 'logical ideas and well thought out issues but the structure leaves a lot to be desired'. Kurt simply wanted to scrunch up his work and ram it down Peterson's throat. He was a miserable so and so with only disdain for his students... he made Mr Schue look like a teaching God. It was for this reason that Kurt found himself happily shut in the first floor kitchen that afternoon with Blaine, escaped from the reality of Dalton schooling.
Kurt couldn't breathe for giggling.
"You're an idiot."
"That's not very nice now is it?" Blaine replied, edging closer, a devilish glint twinkling in his hazel eyes.
"I swear Blaine Thornton, you get any cake mix on my clothes and you'll live to regret it."
"Oh really?"
"Yes really. Now, stop being so cliché and cute and take a step back."
Blaine didn't listen, instead deciding to keep inching forward, a dollop of mixture on his finger.
"You think I'm cute?" he smirked, stepping forward again. Kurt edged back, feeling the counter nearing slowly and knowing there was no escape. His heart was hammering frantically but in the most exquisitely perfect way.
Kurt blushed. "I think you're an idiot. Don't you listen?"
Blaine simply laughed, licking off the mixture and winking in Kurt's direction. "You're no fun."
With a roll of his eyes, Kurt smirked. "You wanted to make cakes so we're making cakes. Nowhere in the agreement was there a mention of chasing me around the room."
Blaine was desperately intent on staring at Kurt's cheeks. They were blushed pink and flawless, shimmering almost. They'd taken a walk after the afternoon class and as the rain had started, soon turning to a downpour, Blaine had chimed up with an idea of how to spend their afternoon – much to Kurt's delight.
"I can't help myself," Blaine cooed, now mere inches away from Kurt, his hands pinning him to the counter. Kurt felt his cheeks redden and skin flush warm as Blaine licked off the cake mix.
"You're such a flirt," Kurt breathed out with much more want in his voice than he intended. His fingers shook as they lifted to land on Blaine's stomach and rested there, feeling the warmth.
"Only because you make the chasing so worthwhile."
Kurt groaned playfully. "Oh god just stop talking. I'm embarrassed for you." With a chuckle, Blaine leaned in close to place a slow kiss on Kurt's lips, only lifting before an intense amount of pressure. Kurt swayed on the spot, his spine tingling and eyes wide. "Do that again."
Blaine obliged, this time pressing his entire body to align with Kurt's, flush and neat. As Kurt gasped, his hands slid naturally up to Blaine's chest before looping themselves around his neck and pulling him close. It was fluid and easy now, free of tension and any panic about holding back. Blaine was his, he was close and easy to trust and, above all, so honest.
As the kiss ended, much too soon for Kurt's liking, Blaine's face suddenly became very serious.
"I need to ask you something."
His eyes sharpened causing Kurt's chest to flood with anxiety. It was a moment he was, regardless of everything, always expecting from anyone- the get out clause. Kurt was not accustomed to the long term, instead choosing to accept the futile nature of relationships in order to protect what had become his own fragile heart.
"Blaine if you're about to say something bad then let me go, let me make a coffee and break it to me gently. It's all I'm asking."
In a second his lips were otherwise occupied once more, this time with a soft tender kiss fused with such affection, Kurt could hardly stand it.
"Who's the idiot now?" Blaine said quietly as he leaned back, shuddering as Kurt's arms slid down to his sides once more. Blaine didn't move, still holding Kurt close and against the counter. "Why would it be anything negative at all?"
"I don't know."
Kurt wriggled free, slipping his hands into oven gloves and turning to inspect Blaine's eyes. He wasn't sure why he'd panicked but was sure of one thing, he regretted the distance now put between them.
"Did you know we had Prom here?"
Kurt stopped in his tracks. "What?"
Blaine walked slowly to stand in front of Kurt again, noticing a spot of flour on his nose. He reached out to dust if off, his eyes twinkling. Kurt bit his lip in anticipation in an attempt to calm his racing heart.
"We do. We may be an all boys school but Principle Masters invites the girls again and any student with a girlfriend... or boyfriend is able to bring them. As Kate couldn't make it to the Snow Ball, Wes is bringing her. David's got a date too. Even Thomas has a new guy in his life who he's hoping to bring."
"Oh," Kurt said quietly, eyes bright and alert. He fumbled with the oven glove and picked at the thread.
It was Blaine could do to not crush Kurt to him as he looked so completely adorable. There was still that unsure underlying layer of fear that bubbled to the surface every now and then; Blaine knew it well as he was sure he wore the same look on his own face at times.
"Kurt, look at me, why have you gone quiet?"
The oven roared beside them providing the only noise in the room, meaning the silence was emphasised dramatically. Kurt took a deep breath and glanced up- his eyes were slightly shiny.
"Just remembering something I said to my dad once, that's all."
Blaine stepped closer, looping the glove from Kurt's tight grip, placing it on the counter. "I'm going to ask you accompany me to Prom, is that ok?" Blaine smirked, sheer delight alive in his features.
Kurt swallowed and nodded gently. "This is happening isn't it?" he asked under his breath.
Blaine stood tall, his fingers tangling with Kurt's and holding on. "Kurt Hummel, will you do me the greatest honour in becoming my date for Prom?"
The tiny shrill giggle to escape Kurt's lips was enough of a response. "This isn't real."
Blaine nodded slowly, drawing Kurt's lips closer with a firm hand wrapped around his neck. "Lets see how real I can make it," he drawled as their lips met, tasting of cake batter and lemon zest. Kurt was sure it was the sweetest kiss of his life.
The next day, Kurt was tense. He'd spent most of the evening running his song over and over until he knew the lyrics backwards, forwards and possibly even in fluent French. Wes had broken the news of the quick and impending audition the previous day at approximately 10:30pm to which he'd received a pillow in the face courtesy of one Kurt Hummel. Blaine had laughed hysterically.
With a quick call to Mercedes to discuss song choice, Kurt was sure he'd picked a perfect number. It wasn't overly dramatic (and if it was they could suck it), it showed off his voice perfectly and was something unique enough to grab the attention of the council members. Plus, it happened to be sung by his idol – Patti Lupone. There had to be a pronoun switch but it was perfect.
"Ready Kurt?" David asked, appearing in his doorway.
Pavarotti chirped a tune which made Kurt smile. He took it as the little yellow bird's expression of luck.
"Precious bird," Kurt mumbled under his breath, "I'm ready."
As they entered the senior commons, Kurt carrying his tiny boom box, the entire Warbler clan sat scattered around the room in their uniforms. Blaine was across the room in the middle of a conversation with Wes but glanced up, eyes speaking volumes, when Kurt stepped in the door. Kurt waved somewhat coyly before taking an empty seat by the door.
Wes, David and Thad took their seats. "The Warbler council welcomes Blaine Thornton for his audition. You may take the stage."
Kurt always stifled a laugh at the faux pleasantries the Warblers always used. It was strangely addictive to treat everything so seriously but Kurt couldn't help but imagine how the New Directions would react to witnessing such conservatism. They'd laugh in Wes' face, maybe except Rachel. She'd adore it.
Blaine straightened his tie and stood in the centre of the room. Thad pressed play.
The slickest swing music played out, lilting through the air and causing Kurt to breathe in, pressing his lips together in exhilaration. The second Blaine began to sing, Kurt recognised the song immediately. His heart fluttered.
If they asked me, I could write a book;
About the way you walk, and whisper;
And look.
Blaine's eyes didn't leave Kurt's. Each word was delivered with the most enchanting charm and swagger. Blaine hopped and skipped with the most suave of grins on his face. He winked as he passed Kurt, drawling out the smoothest tones with the added edge of cheekiness.
I could write a preface;
On how we met;
That the world will never forget.
His hop, skip and jump fell perfectly in time with the music as Blaine skilfully executed it off the small steps down into the room. He shimmied his shoulders in time with the brass instrumental before launching into song once more.
And the simple;
Secret of the plot;
Is just to tell them;
That I love you, alot.
Then the world discovers;
As my book ends;
How to make two lovers of friends.
As the song ended, the Warblers broke out into animated applause. Jeff high fived an ecstatic Blaine just as Kurt caught his eye. Blaine mouthed the words "for you" as he lowered himself into his seat once more.
Kurt was sure he was going to explode from joy but instead, breathed in deeply and filled himself up with it, letting it flood him and threaten to burst out.
"Kurt Hummel, you are invited to take the floor to provide the counter competitive performance."
Squaring his shoulders, Kurt closed his eyes momentarily. He found his centre and felt the music surge through his veins.
With one look I can break your heart
With one look I play every part
I can make your sad heart sing
With one look you'll know all you need to know
With one smile I'm the boy next door
Or the love that you've hungered for
When I speak it's with my soul
I can play any role
The power of the words ever fused with emotion caused Kurt's voice to pierce the air in the room. Blaine felt his spine tingle so intensely that he shifted in his seat. The perfect pitch and passion in Kurt's voice was so shockingly powerful. He felt his eyes prickle.
No words can tell the stories my eyes tell
Watch me when I frown, you can't write that down
You know I'm right, it's there in black and white
When I look your way, you'll hear what I say
Yes, with one look I put words to shame
Just one look sets the screen aflame
Silent music starts to play
One tear in my eye makes the whole world cry
Blaine couldn't breathe out. It was breath-taking. The history and experiences Kurt had endured were evident with every note, his passion pouring out at every syllable and his new found strength and sense of self were solid and unwavering with every breath.
With one look they'll forgive the past
They'll rejoice I've returned at last
To my people in the dark
Still out there in the dark...
Silent music starts to play
With one look you'll know all you need to know
With one look I'll ignite a blaze
I'll return to my glory days
They'll say, "He is back at last!"
This time I am staying, I'm staying for good
I'll be back to where I was born to be
With one look I'll be me!
The final notes were the last straw. Blaine choked on his own breath. He could barely move, rigid in his chair through the power of the soaring music and the strength of Kurt's voice. He watched as Kurt's shoulders visibly relaxed from their tension, his fingers trembling slightly.
Kurt focused on breathing. He hadn't expected to feel so much, for it to mean so much and tobe expressed with every single part of him. He was shuddering with adrenalin and before he knew it, Blaine was close by.
"Thank you both for your contributions," Wes asserted, sending a flood of confusion through Kurt's mind, "we will adjourn to make your decisions and call you both back to deliver our verdict."
In seconds, Kurt was outside with Blaine's hand warm on his lower back. "Wait a minute, we were the only two auditioning?" he asked quickly, eyes searching Blaine's.
Blaine blinked back, unsure. "I thought Wes had explained to you. Jeff can't provide the time and Nick isn't well enough. Nobody else put themselves forward for a solo."
"You're my only competition?" Kurt gasped, frowning with his mouth agape.
"I honestly thought Wes had told you," Blaine explained, stepping forward to attempt a smile.
"No," Kurt spat, "he hadn't. I really wish he had though because he just let me go in there uninformed."
"Kurt you'd still have auditioned even if you'd known. Of course you would have."
"Yes," he groaned, "but that's not the point. It's you and I."
Blaine sighed. "It'll be fine. You've nailed it. Believe me, I haven't even begun to tell you how beautiful that was Kurt. You almost reduced me to tears. Your voice..." he attempted to eloquently construct a sentence with enough meaning. He failed.
Kurt glanced up under his eyelashes from his place on the seat outside. "Thank you."
Blaine sat by his side, placing his hand over Kurt's warmly. "You were breathtaking. They'd be mad not to choose you."
Kurt laughed wryly. "I tried too hard once more. You were fun, flirty, charming, entertaining and the song was right for an acapella arrangement. I can't see the Warblers channelling their inner Norma Demond and belting out Sunset Boulevard."
Blaine felt the nerves knot inside. Something felt wrong. He reached out for Kurt's hand and squeezed.
At that moment Wes pushed open the door and smiled at Kurt who straightened his back and shoulders, eyes expectant.
"Kurt, although your performance was moving and extremely proficient, I'm afraid we've chosen Blaine as our soloist for Regionals."
Woah. Well, there you go.
The next Chapter is a direct run on from this and, as you can probably tell, gets a little angsty but it's all fine... you know me by now, you needn't worry : )
The songs sung in this Chapter are:
Kurt – "With One Look" from Sunset Boulevard sung by Patti Lupone
- this song sends shivers down my spine. It's incredible, especially towards the end. As Kurt, in the show, is a big Patti fan and has already belted out Rose's Turn, I've always imagined him singing this song. I think the words are beautiful for him too with a few teeny changes!
Blaine – "I Could Write A Book" by Harry Connick Jr (amongst others)
- This song is one I've always listened to and I used instantly BUT when I realised a couple of things, I knew it DEFINITELY had to be used. It's by Rogers and Hart (who Darren used for his audition for Blaine!) and is from When Harry Met Sally. HAHA, how damn SPOOKY is that? I was giddy when I realised.
I hope you like the song choices. I loved both songs equally and would KILL for Darren to nail a swing song as Blaine, equally Kurt needs to be given a solo or a front and centre moment again. I miss him so much.
LASTLY... over 1000 reviews. You are all FAR too wonderful to comprehend. Some of the comments I get are just incredibly generous. I am UNBELIEVABLY happy and very appreciative. Thank you so much for your support and feedback. I am so pleased it's meant something to you to even compel you to leave a comment.