Helloha! Firstly, again, I have to apologise for the LONG wait for this chapter. My workload seems to double and triple every single day and as much as I'd love to write bucket loads and have a shed load of ideas, I just have no time! I've been off around the country doing all sorts so I'm so happy to be able to be posting this now! :)
I've had a LOT of people asking for my tumblr links: they're in my profile now if you want them...
THANK YOU SO VERY VERY much for the continued comments. Gosh, honestly, the ones I've received recently are SO unbearably sweet. I can hardly get over it and all I can say is, I'm so HAPPY you like TLT and that it makes you smile... that's DEFINITELY the intention. Thank you, as always, and for those who are reccing in and sending it to others - you're all kinds fo awesome, in the words of drunk Rachel Berry.
Oh and that, Blane (Blaine) it on the Alcohol... bloody amazing. HA! I'm one of THOSE people who completely adored the pint sized hobbit love fest of epic sing song faces and over exaggerated dancing. It was impossibly ridiculous. Drunk!Blaine is possibly the CUTEST and is blatently sober!Darren. Oh dear. I also ADORED their argument. Yes, Kurt said stupid things but so did Blaine and neither is perfect. Kurt's spikey and impulsive with his actions/words ANYWAY so I don't know why people expected anything ELSE... it's what we love about him! Well, I do! They're both lost and finding their feet but the BEST thing is that it's with EACH OTHER. I know people had very mixed responses to BIOTA but I loved it... think I could watch sleepy!Blaine on repeat forever. Cutie pie.
Anyway, a MASSIVE thank you and stupid amount of hugs goes to Courtney/court4short who sent me THE cutest Dalton bag. It's AMAZING. I have to say a huge thank you and say that this chapter is, I hope, a little thank you but won't go the whole way to say how grateful I am for your adorable card and message.
I LOVED, and I mean, LOVED writing this one. By the end I was a swooning mess myself. I tried to channel my inner teen again and I HOPE, once again, that it hasn't hit the coundary of cheesy/melodramatic. I fell so completely crazy for these two writing this... *sigh*
It's only week until we get Sexy (BURT BURT BURT... I'll not mention spoilers but for those who KNOw what is going to happen, I am STUPIDLY excited, eek!) and Original Song is not far away too. Both have SO much in them that I simply CANNOT wait for so, until then, I REALLY hope you like this Chapter. I'm sure you can guess a few things involved in the next Chapter... :)
PS: For those who saw the photos of tired/scruffy/but forever beautiful Darren at the OScars Viewing party ... I couldn't help but include that gorgeous swoonworthy vintage 3 piece suit in this story. Shareitwithme will appreciate it hopefully! Also, let also get out how completely BEAUTIFUL OF ANGEL-LIKE PROPORTIONS Chris looked at Elton's shindig... jesus lord, he's one very very pretty guy.
Blaine eased open his door.
"Where have you been?" Wes asked before Blaine even had the chance to glance into the room properly.
Kurt swallowed, wiping his eyes quickly before stepping into the room too. Wes could feel the atmosphere change in a swift moment.
"Oh erm," he mumbled, scrambling to collect his papers together off the bed, "I'll erm... just..."
Blaine's eyes were resigned to his shoes but, as Wes passed, he was sure to flash a grateful smile. Wes nodded back.
Once alone, Kurt sighed as the door closed behind them. He reached for Blaine's hand, holding tight and refusing to put space between them for even a second.
"I didn't mean what I said about Thomas."
Blaine breathed in deeply, watching Kurt's eyes. It was funny how quick he was able to read easily into Kurt's expressions. "Come and sit," Blaine directed. The bed dipped as Kurt climbed to rest beside Blaine. Neither moved any further, instead they sat side by side, their hands just touching lightly. "I know you didn't mean it but you can't pull that on me Kurt."
"I know," Kurt breathed, his knees suddenly fascinating, "I don't know why I said it. I really like Thomas and I love what he is to you. He's important to you."
"He is."
"I am so sorry for throwing that in your face. It wasn't fair."
Blaine shuffled to face Kurt, his legs crossing easily. Wes had left his lamp switched on and Blaine couldn't help but map the glistening tracks on Kurt's cheeks, the way they snaked down his skin and fell below his chin. The tug at his heart was difficult to mask. "It wasn't but I wasn't exactly fair either. He's my friend Kurt, nothing else and definitely nothing more. That's all."
Kurt swallowed thickly. "I know. I know all of this... I don't know why I said what I did." His forehead crinkled roughly causing his pale skin to rumple uncomfortably. Blaine watched as his eyelids fell heavily.
"I used to perform to forget. Still do I guess."
Kurt blinked up, shocked at the change in topic and the way that, as his eyes met Blaine's, they shone with clarity. The cascade of memories fluttered Kurt's brain in rapid succession. He thought of singing and letting his tears fall as his dad lay in hospital, he thought of raging on stage to 'Rose's Turn' and throwing every ounce of frustration and energy into every syllable and he thought lastly to Defying Gravity. They were so much more alike than he had realised to date.
"I sing to express myself, to express everything so I don't-"
"Have to say it?" Blaine's lip quirked slightly.
The laugh that fell from Kurt's lips was natural and soft. He smiled, his eyes gliding to meet Blaine's again. "Know it all," he quipped with a tiny smirk. It was easier for a second as if nothing had ever been wrong between them.
"No," Blaine smiled, "I just get it."
Kurt sighed awkwardly. "I love watching you perform. I can hardly take my eyes off you. I never meant to undermine that. You're wonderful on stage."
Blaine nodded. The way Kurt's fingers tugged at the cotton of his sheets was distracting; he wanted Kurt's hands in his, for his hand and fingers to be the source of comfort. Before he spoke, Blaine looped his grip around Kurt's hands, drawing them up to rest on his lap.
"I want you to have a solo. Your voice is beautiful but you're mesmerising, breath-taking and every single note is like crystal. No acapella group can match that. What I was trying to explain to you is that you're so outstanding and your light shines so much brighter than everyone else... it can't be dampened, can't be toned down because... that's just not you."
"I like to be theatrical," Kurt laughed slightly, shuffling forward.
Blaine grinned warmly. "You don't say."
"Look," Kurt began, sitting up straight, his eyes sparkling, "I am not one to admit when I'm wrong. If you hadn't noticed, I'm kind of stubborn," Blaine chuckled fondly, "but I was wrong. Very wrong."
"I'm going to go soppy on you for a second," Blaine explained, tightening his grip on Kurt's hand, "is that ok?"
"As if I can stop you," Kurt smiled, his eyes glistening once more. They were tears of relief and gratitude.
"You mean so much more to me than a stupid performance."
Kurt felt his breath catch in his throat. He felt his lips quiver. "Same here."
In a second it was over. There was no need to say anything further, no need to rehash the unfortunate events of that afternoon and go over and over every single accusation. The simple admission of priority was enough to calm Kurt's heart and provide Blaine with a wealth of confidence in their ability to make it through anything anyone placed in front of them.
"I've got a proposition," Blaine stated after what felt like the biggest intake of breath he'd ever taken. He slid his hands from Kurt's and climbed off the bed clumsily. Kurt's eyes widened, his neck straightening and tilting his head to the side in what Blaine cherished as his trademark posture.
"And what would that be?"
"We forget about this stupid day."
"Done."
Blaine grinned, the smile reaching his eyes and lighting them happily. "That we go somewhere tomorrow, just me and you as it's Saturday-"
"Shopping?" Kurt all but squeaked out, his hands pressing together in front of his chest hopefully. There was no mistaking the frantic excitement in his eyes.
"Shopping," Blaine agreed, nodding slowly. His ability to stay upright was tested as Kurt launched himself off the bed and threw his arms around his neck, somehow managing to make it look graceful and choreographed.
As Kurt's arms looped tight, Blaine felt the buzz of enthusiasm in the way Kurt bounced on his feet, his shoulders swaying and almost dancing. In a second, the embrace relaxed somewhat. Blaine closed his eyes and allowed his chin to rest on Kurt's shoulder comfortably as he felt eyelashes tickle the back of his neck. It was miraculous how easy it was.
"I've wanted to dress you for months. I have a mental list of so many pieces that I know would flatter your frame and make you look amazing-" Blaine coughed pointedly at the brink of laughing.
Kurt giggled. "I mean, not that you aren't dreamy already but I have skills, Blaine, and I've always wanted someone to dress up."
Blaine pulled out from the hug laughing, reaching for Kurt's flapping hands and holding them still between them. "So I'm your mannequin now, am I? Wow."
"You are going to look spectacular," Kurt gushed, "think Tom Ford meets Marlon Brando with exception given to the fact that your hair has a life of its own. I mean, Colin Firth and Orlando Bloom have rocked the ruffled look for years and well, they're dreamy too. They don't have your bone structure though," he mused, tracing Blaine's jaw with his finger, feeling Blaine curl into the touch, "so you've got one up on them before you've even started."
Blaine blinked rapidly, nodding to keep up. His face flickered with amusement as he took in the manic expression on Kurt's face. "Breathe Kurt," he urged, sliding the other boy's hand from his face and placing it by his side with a smile.
"I really like the idea of spending a day with you in my favourite place."
The comfort of the words shrouded Blaine in warmth. "Ditto," he sighed, "even despite the fact I'm going to spend the day being manhandled."
Kurt spat out a laugh. "Shut up," he hissed playfully, "you'll love every second."
"Oh really? Why's that?"
Kurt took in Blaine's long eyelashes, his deep eyes and the way his lip was currently trapped between his teeth in the cutest and sexiest biting motion. Blaine was a masterpiece and one who was willing to put up with his insanity.
"Because I get very handsy when I dress people."
In a second, Kurt was pinned to the bed giggling. Blaine pressed feverish kisses down his neck, along his collarbone and then back up to meet with Kurt's lips, all the while grasping to keep Kurt's squirming limbs under control. Kurt giggled and gasped for breath but as his lips were captured in a messy kiss, he sighed heavily, his shoulders falling back against the duvet in one fell swoop.
"I think I just fell in love with you," he breathed out between kisses with a blessed out smile as Blaine's lips teased at his jaw. It felt like heaven being trapped under the comforting weight and Kurt knew he was making noises in reaction to each touch but didn't care. He held tight to Blaine's hips and let himself succumb to anything Blaine wished to do.
"You're so behind," Blaine drawled, stopping mid kiss to look into Kurt's eyes. They dazzled in realisation before sliding closed at the touch of Blaine's fingertips tickling up and under the layers of his sweater.
They'd taken Blaine's car to the mall, Kurt in the passenger seat drumming his fingers excitedly on the window and Blaine sighing happily in the driver's seat as they meandered the roads comfortably. As they pulled into the parking lot, Blaine watched as Kurt busied himself with his bag, laughing to himself as he recognised his inability to resist sneaking a glance at Kurt when he had no idea he was being watched. Kurt had opted for full-on-fabulous, something Blaine wasn't too surprised at, and had chosen a pillar box red knee length flared coat with dark navy skinny jeans and a pair of stylish black boots. His hair was his trademark coiffed affair, perfect and unmentionably soft looking, skimming a very shimmery and somewhat distracting black scarf.
"So mon ami, where do you want to begin?" he asked, smiling fondly as he reached out to nudge Kurt's elbow.
"How about coffee?" Kurt replied, eyes shining, "or else I fear you won't last the day."
Blaine kept his eyes on Kurt as they exited the car. Something had changed between them since their argument making their touches, looks and spoken words seem that much more poignant but so very natural. The residual nerves and tentative feelings were entirely gone now.
As they walked through the parking lot, Kurt smiled, feeling Blaine's shoulder aligned with his and touching every other step. He felt empowered, not only because they'd survived a stupid nonsensical disagreement but because they were going to spend the whole day together and nobody was going to be able to stop him enjoying every single second. In a heartbeat, he allowed his hand to reach out slightly, his fingers grazing Blaine's before slowly folding themselves in.
Nobody seemed to notice. Blaine felt eyes on him but didn't look into them, instead he squeezed his hand back with a smile and kept on walking, noticing that Kurt skipped a little and nuzzled to his side.
"Oh it's going to be like that is it?" he joked, pressing his shoulder back into Kurt's. That sought to only elicit a swat to his shoulder which was cute and definitely not unwanted.
"I'm in a good mood," Kurt snapped playfully, "so sue me."
They pushed the doors to Starbucks, Blaine breathing in deeply and relishing in the heat and overpowering smell- it was the scent of champions. When he opened his eyes, Kurt was laughing.
"Look at you, you're like an addict getting a hit."
"Shush you," Blaine complained, biting his lip.
As they neared the front of the queue, Kurt couldn't stand to keep his hands away from Blaine even for a second. The feeling of connection was addictive, grounding him and quickening his heart in succession. The blissful wash of that heady feeling of affection and heat, desire and fondness was overwhelming and too good to let go of even for a second. He glanced sideways, seeing Blaine through a stranger's eyes and felt his heart swell.
He knew he was beautiful – that was a given – and he was well aware that Blaine was inherently handsome to his core but it was the array of miniature details that only closeness and time to look could provide. His eyelashes- Kurt was sure he had never seen softer eyelashes in his life, so dark and splayed out perfectly. The dimple in his cheek when he smiled so manly but adorably childish all at once- Kurt took a breath and smiled just as the barista asked for their order.
"One medium drip, one non-fat decafe mocha with extra whip, a chocolate biscotti and a packet of caramel wafers, please," Kurt explained slowly, his face serious. Blaine and coffee was serious business after all.
"Extra whip?" Blaine asked, sliding money into Kurt's palm with a grin.
"I told you," Kurt explained, his eyebrows raised as he slid the money back into Blaine's pocket, "I'm in a good mood."
"I want to kiss you right now."
Blaine shocked himself. He had no idea where the words had come from, or he did but didn't realise he was saying them out loud. Kurt was glowing, eyes sharp and every movement animated in the best possible way; he looked fantastic, the kind of picture of fashionable fierceness that only the very artistic could pull off and he was turning heads at every step. Blaine didn't care if it was because they were very blatantly affectionate today or if it was because Kurt looked so stunning.
"It's only because I bought you a coffee Blaine," Kurt quipped, letting his tongue tough his top teeth in a flirty smile, "let's not get ahead of ourselves. Starbucks isn't quite ready for a big gay love fest."
"Screw Starbucks," Blaine whined, tugging on Kurt's scarf tails. The look of spiky amusement and tenderness that he received in return told him enough – Kurt would make good later.
As they walked through the mall, Kurt found himself rolling his eyes. Blaine clung to his coffee like a lifeline, the cuffs of his dark jacket skimming the cardboard as he enveloped his hands tighter with every sip. He'd lick his lips after every drink, rubbing them together gently after wards. Kurt shuddered, mentally bitch slapping himself for being so... hormonal.
"I'm jealous of a Styrofoam cup," he groaned, his eyes avoiding Blaine's so as not to cause himself to flush more than he already was.
Blaine couldn't stop the grin. It was impossible to hold back so instead of exercising some restraint, he glanced around quickly, noting that nobody was particularly close-by or paying attention and tugged Kurt to him, planting a soft kiss on his lips.
Kurt gasped in response, his shoulders stiffening and hands pushing slightly on Blaine's chest.
"We can't-"
Blaine leaned back, eyes surveying Kurt's crinkled brow and piercing eyes. "I don't care," Blaine stated firmly as he let his hand travel down from Kurt's shoulders to squeeze his hand.
"I do," Kurt urged, pushing Blaine's hand back a little, his face filled with regret, "this coat cost me four months worth of allowance and I'd rather not have it ripped or blood stained thank you very much."
Kurt's words were teasing but tinged with sadness. Blaine frowned. "I forget sometimes."
He didn't need to explain further, knowing that Kurt would more than understand. "I know," Kurt soothed, straightening the slight crinkle in Blaine's coat lapel, reminiscent of the many times he'd been the recipient of such preening, "let's go shop and maybe there'll be a fitting room free..."
Kurt winked unsure whether he was more excited at the prospect of shopping or making out. With a final sip of his coffee, Blaine shook his head, attempting to push the multitude of images cycling through his brain- most involving his lips in contact with varying points on Kurt's body- and followed obediently.
Inside a particularly formal looking store, Blaine began to realise the magnitude of Kurt's skills and obsession. They'd discarded their coffee cups and now Kurt's hands were filled with handfuls of suit sleeves and ties as he passed the stacked rails.
"Oh Blaine," he cooed, not even looking in Blaine's direction but swooning visibly at the many racks of jackets.
"Can't I just wear the suit I wore to the Snow Ball?" Blaine asked with a tone completely serious. Kurt whipped his head in an instant, barely able to process what he'd heard.
"Blaine..." he began, slowly, as if talking to a three year old, "this is prom. This is one of the most important events of the year and of a high schooler's calendar. This is a chance to dress the best you've ever dressed. Plus, you're my date and well," he pursed his lips, "we have to look good."
"Kurt, you could wear a garbage bag and still pull it off," Blaine mused, half smiling, "whereas I... can't."
Kurt fell silent for a second, mind obviously racing but words unable to form. When he finally went to speak, he stepped forward, dropping the coat tails he'd been clinging to, and slid his fingers into Blaine's hands.
"Blaine Anderson," he drawled, smooth and laced with affection, "first of all, if I may be so bold as to declare myself somewhat of a men's fashion expert, you will never have any trouble finding the best cut, best style and most beautiful clothes you could ever wish for and second of all, you happen to be," he swallowed, his cheeks a little pink, "particularly gorgeous so your worries are unfounded."
Kurt squeezed their hands and offered a warm smile before turning to half skip up the aisle. It took Blaine a few seconds to follow, his heart pounding out of sheer happiness; it wasn't every day he was called gorgeous by a boy with looks akin to an angel. Kurt's eyes were sparkling- it was more than enough of an incentive to follow him and obey his every word.
"Blaine, what about this?" Kurt called, dangling a shiny black fitted jacket in one hand alongside a slim black waistcoat in the very same material, "it's almost Armani standard and you don't have the designer price tag. It's beautiful."
After thirty minutes of nodding, smiling, shrugging, posing and general good behaviour, Blaine found himself in the fitting room in only his boxers and a pile of possible suits to try on. He could hear Kurt tapping on his phone outside of the curtain and knew he had all of the time in the world because no way was Kurt going to become tired. He was a shopping machine.
"You done yet?" Kurt asked. Blaine jumped.
"Um," he rushed out, realising he'd been entirely lost in his own thoughts.
Kurt sighed, pocketing his phone with a smile. It was becoming distinctly obvious that Blaine needed direction and he knew, of all people, he was more than capable. He felt his stomach tighten delightfully at being able to shop with someone and share such moments with another. It was so simple and mundane to many but Kurt couldn't quite keep the smile far from his lips.
He teased the curtain back and peeked his head in.
"Kurt!" Blaine all but jumped, his hands on the buttons of a white dress shirt. Kurt swallowed, his eyes growing wider as he realised that that particular shirt was the only other item of clothing besides his underwear that Blaine was actually wearing. His mind, tumbling with potential one-liners to defuse the tension, betrayed him.
All he managed was a hard swallow and a squeaky "Hi."
Blaine was sure he'd turned a nice shade of cerise but still managed a grin. Kurt's expression was beyond adorable; his eyes had grown enormous and expectant but were fixed resolutely in one place, his cheeks were speckled with the cutest blush which crept up from his scarf. He looked perfect and Blaine barely remembered he was standing half naked. He had to defuse the tension.
"Come in," he said simply, motioning for Kurt to close the curtain. Kurt obeyed stiffly, his skin on fire and hands slotted purposefully in his pockets.
"You're buttoning it wrong," he stuttered out, half strangled and half whispered. He could feel his hands aching to reach out to help Blaine but it was one of those moments, one where the air disappears and breathing simply isn't an option anymore.
Blaine smirked, biting his lip. He ducked his head as he dropped the buttons. "Are you freaking out?"
Kurt let out a wry laugh. "No," he replied indignantly, suddenly pulling his hands from his pockets and beginning to tentatively button up Blaine's shirt stubbornly, "I'm fine."
"Because you're kind of blushing," Blaine teased, knowing he had to say something to break the tension. They hadn't quite crossed that line where nakedness was an option.
"Shut up Blaine," Kurt snapped, flushing pinker. The buttons were simple to fasten but Kurt's fingers fumbled a little, missing the hole and causing a rush of frustration. "Ok," he huffed, letting go and stepping back, "it's not every day you get to be in a confined space with a half naked boy, ok?"
Blaine was sure his heart would explode at the sheer petulance on Kurt's face and the way his bright eyes had glazed over and now found it incredibly difficult to look him in the eye. It didn't take Blaine long to tug on the trousers and button the shirt causing Kurt to relax more.
"Show me how to do the shirt," Blaine asked, knowing fine well if there was anything he was skilled at in the fashion department, it was formal wear, but Kurt was half removed from the moment and it wasn't right.
The tiny smile Kurt made was enough to realise he'd done the right thing. "It fits well," Kurt said quietly, smoothing the collar, "it's like you were born to wear this kind of thing."
Blaine felt himself shiver. Kurt was meticulous, precise and was a preener; he was fussing with every inch of the shirt, tucking it in, dusting it off and generally being as handsy as he'd warned. Blaine couldn't stop staring at the way Kurt was concentrating, his lips pouting thoughtfully, head tilting in study and best of all, the way he bit his lip upon inspection. It was hypnotising.
"What?" Kurt asked suddenly breaking Blaine's daydream.
"Nothing," Blaine replied, shaking his head with a smirk, "just you."
Kurt let his hands slide down Blaine's chest, tugging the lapels of the jackets taut. The focus of Blaine's gaze was causing his stomach to curl and skin to tingle so he focused on the task at hand, keeping his eyes at a safe level as any contact with Blaine's was a little too overwhelming to cope with.
"You're done," Kurt mumbled, nerves bubbling under the surface suddenly. It was a truth acknowledged that Kurt adored the spotlight but with Blaine it was different; the gaze was intense and unwavering in a way that sent the most breathtaking jolts of something wonderful up Kurt's spine.
Blaine turned to face the mirror, Kurt by his side with his hands on his hips.
"Wow," Blaine breathed, quite unable to grasp what he saw, "you really do know what you're doing."
Kurt scoffed. "Never underestimate my knowledge of fashion Blaine, let this be a lesson to you." As he spoke, he couldn't help but smile- Blaine looked wonderful. If truth be told, he looked perfect. "See," Kurt gestured to Blaine's waist, "it's fitted just the right amount but the waist coat skims your frame so it draws you in and it makes the suit look tailored precisely and much more expensive. The trousers are slim and straight leg which is much more flattering on your frame as you're," Kurt swallowed a wry smile, "shorter than most guys."
"Thanks for reminding me," Blaine chuckled.
"Telling it how it is and anyway, it looks amazing. What do you think?"
Blaine kept looking. Kurt had removed his coat and was stood close beside him in dark jeans that left absolutely nothing to the imagination, boots that were tight and of one of Kurt's usual styles – bondage wear – which, in itself, was enough to cause a little heat under his collar. The most distracting of aspects was Kurt's slim fitting red and blue checked shirt, buttoned high and teamed with a snug cardigan. The buttons were mock diamonds. Blaine smiled, his eyes fond and shoulders shrugging slightly. "We look good together."
Kurt's little burst of happiness was a thing of beauty. He smiled, bouncing on his heels and clasping his hands together. "So you like it?"
Blaine shook his head. "Come here," he said simply, pulling at Kurt's hip and tugging him to his side. He was in the best position to rest his head on Kurt's shoulder so he did, drawing himself closer at the same time. He felt Kurt's reaction instantly, the slight wriggle into the touch and the same jolt of shock that Blaine had grown used to eliciting.
The four mirrors cast their reflections in every single direction. Kurt wasn't sure what did it but there was a moment of sheer happiness that soared through his body concentrating at his heart where it bloomed quickly. He looked down, suddenly unable to look back at Blaine.
"What is it?"
Kurt smiled slightly. "Still having a few difficulties with accepting that this is my life now."
Blaine nudged his head closer to Kurt's ear. "Get used to it."
Those words. Kurt took a long slow breath and looked back into the mirror. Blaine's smile was genuine and of the most charming variety, his arms were wrapped tight and his hair fell slightly onto his forehead. "Thank you for putting up with all of this."
The low, almost gravelly laugh in Kurt's ear was nothing short of gorgeous. "That's what boyfriends are for," Blaine replied, matter-of-factly.
Kurt froze. The words repeated themselves over and over in his head, growing louder and clearer every time. Boyfriend... Boyfriend... Boyfriend...
"Boyfriend..." he whispered, completely unaware that he'd even said the word out loud. A solid blanket of warmth encircled his entire body as Blaine laughed, squeezing his waist slightly.
It hit him then. They hadn't said that word yet, not really. Blaine had said it to others, he'd used it to describe Kurt to Thomas and Sylvie and Wes but they hadn't said it to each other and it was a moment so defining that the world seemed to disappear around them.
"We haven't said it yet have we?" he asked, sliding his hands from Kurt's waist and turning him around so they were facing.
Kurt bit his lip, eyes large and expectant. "No."
"It ok?"
Kurt couldn't help but laugh, shuddery and in shock. "Blaine, I've waited my entire life to find someone who actually wanted to call me that so, no, I don't mind one bit."
"Good."
They fell silent for a second, just looking at each other. Kurt glanced away then flicked his eyes back up, under his eyelashes with a coy smile.
"I think I'm a little addicted to you doing that," Blaine admitted, acutely aware of how shy he suddenly felt admitting something so stupid.
"What?"
"Your eyelashes," Blaine chuckled breathlessly, "when you look at me through them."
Kurt blushed. "Like this?" he asked, bending his head and fluttering his lashes seductively.
"Tease," Blaine whined, batting him away and turning to look in his bag.
"What are you doing?"
Blaine pursed his lips playfully and turned, holding his phone. "We don't have a single photograph of us together, you know?"
"Urgh," Kurt groaned, turning away from Blaine and hiding his face, "don't you dare point that in my face."
"You're kidding me, right?"
Kurt choked out a laugh. "Not at all David Bailey, I hate having my photograph taken. Someone once told me I looked like a twelve year old milk maid and yes, I might be able to rock cutting edge looks but the camera definitely does not work for me."
Blaine sighed. "Oh ok," he stated, his hands reaching to attempt to unbutton the blazer, "well, I'll just return this dinner suit shall I?"
"No!" Kurt spat, "no don't you dare."
Blaine laughed and swivelled on the heels of his feet. "Take a photograph with me then."
"I hate you," Kurt groaned, his forehead wrinkling.
"Come here," Blaine urged, reaching out to pull Kurt's cardigan towards him. The grouchy side to him had caused the distance between them to double.
"Hey hey cashmere," Kurt huffed, swatting Blaine's hands away, "and this is the only one you're taking. I want you to know that this is a very distinct form of torture for me."
"Noted," Blaine dismissed with a huge grin, slipping his right arm around Kurt's waist feeling the ever present shiver resulting from being touched, "now smile."
Kurt could feel the strength of Blaine's arm along the small of his back, holding tight. It was so warm and solid in the moment that the second Blaine extended his arm to position the camera and pressed their temples together, Kurt felt every ounce of will power drain from him. He sighed and nuzzled his head sideways to meet Blaine's and with a small sideways grin, the photo was taken. Blaine drew the camera close and clicked a button.
"Is it awful?" Kurt asked, wrinkling his nose.
"It's perfect," Blaine smiled right up to his eyes before dropping his phone into his bag and turning with outstretched arms looking the picture of a three year old child.
"Yes?"
"I need help with taking off this suit because yours are trained hands, mine are not." Blaine winked.
The tension low in Kurt's stomach intensified again. He could feel his hands twitch to obey so he didn't deny them, instead choosing to breathe deeply and step as close as physically possible, letting his hands linger much longer than they should upon each and every button. If Blaine wanted to play dirty...
Blaine could smell Kurt's scent, intoxicating and heady to every sense. Like a cloud, it surrounded him sending him drowsy. He watched Kurt's fingers, lithe and skilled, slip every button from its hole then once each was released, he followed the trail of Kurt's fingers under the lapels and up to his shoulders where they fell flat and slid the jacket slowly off. In the small space, Blaine could hear and feel Kurt's breath, could sense his heart beat in his fingertips and couldn't help leaning into the touch to feel more.
As the waistcoat fell from his shoulders, Blaine could feel the heat from Kurt's hands through the starched cotton. It was then that Kurt, with only a slight added height, ducked his head and glanced under his eye lashes again. Blaine groaned, unable to hold back any longer, and leaned to press his lips to Kurt's without a second's notice.
Kurt let out the tiniest of noises in response, going rigid for a second until Blaine's hand smoothed the skin at his jaw and slid to tuck under his ear. It sent Kurt spiralling, the sensation of being pulled close, being held in place and just... kissed. As Blaine's lips lifted free gently, Kurt was well aware he let out a noise of frustration and although his eyes had fallen closed and remained that way, he could sense the smile in Blaine's lips as they kissed him again, teasing slowly as hands found their way to Kurt's waist pressing him backwards. In a haphazard and completely awkward manner, Kurt found himself stumbling back to meet the wall of the cubicle just as he felt Blaine's tongue slide across his lips. It was too much, too nice, too scary, too overwhelming and without a doubt too delicious. There wasn't a doubt in the world that Blaine was a coffee addict and it was going to become a problem if he kept up his habit but Kurt swooned into the kiss at the mere taste of it.
"Never going... to... get..." Blaine stuttered out between kisses, his lips dotting up Kurt's cheeks and back down in a sporadic pattern, "used... to this. Ever."
Precious was the only word that sprung to mind. As Blaine's hips met his, causing his skin to flood with heat, Kurt felt something akin to heaven or whatever people had been singing about since time began. It all made so much sense. He had a beautiful boy saying wonderful things, completely smothering him in the hottest and sweetest kisses imaginable and he felt utterly precious.
"Blaine," Kurt breathed, shocking himself at the level of want in his voice, "we're in a fitting room." The last thing in the world Kurt wanted was to exit into the store having to carry his shopping bag in front of him to hide the embarrassing evidence of a somewhat impromptu make out session and it was heading rapidly in the direction where that was pretty inevitable.
"Mhhhh hmmmpf," Blaine mumbled against Kurt's skin.
"Ok," Kurt forced regrettably, "Blaine Anderson control yourself."
Blaine laughed, still peppering kisses down onto Kurt's neck happily. "You taste nice."
Kurt threw his hands up in despair, his skin on fire and white hot with electricity. "Please, Blaine. We're in public." How he was finding the resolve to speak never mind urge Blaine to stop was beyond him.
Gradually, Blaine stopped and lifted himself free to look into Kurt's eyes. The distance between them was almost non-existent. "Can we talk about things later?" he asked, suddenly very serious.
Kurt could feel his heart hammering in his ribcage, faster and faster at the prospect of what such a conversation would entail. "Of course," he managed to say quietly.
Blaine swallowed, slightly nervous himself despite the fact that his hands were still clasped around Kurt's hips and they were both strategically slotted together against the wall.
"Just, we haven't talked about... it... yet and we need to..." he tried, his cheeks darkening. It was difficult to know how to approach the subject but Blaine was sure they were in that place where they could talk and it'd be sensible and honest, even a bit heated.
"Mmmm hmmm," Kurt agreed, words failing him entirely. To this, Blaine grinned happily and leaned back, steadying himself before reaching for the zipper of his pants.
"Ok!" Kurt interjected, unsure if he could cope with any more, "I'll be outside once you're ready and we'll pay."
As he slid out of the curtain, falling into a seat on the opposite side, he tilted his head back against the wall and closed his eyes, breathing in a regular beat to calm himself. Every nerve ending was firing, every part of his body embodied his pulse in the most intense way and above all, he was sure he was bright red and painfully obvious. A young guy exited the cubicle two down from where Blaine was currently, possibly, definitely half naked again and smiled at Kurt... knowingly. It was more of a smirk if Kurt was honest and in that moment, that single painful moment, he simply wanted the ground to swallow him up whole.
Once Blaine was fully dressed as himself again, Kurt had ushered him to the checkout in a flurry of hands and refusals of payment. Blaine had stuffed Kurt's wallet back into his pocket indignantly, disallowing him to pay for a single thing. As the cashier handed Blaine the shiny black cardboard bag, he dangled it in front of Kurt.
"I suppose you'll be wanting to carry the pretty shopping bag?" he asked, full of amusement.
Kurt tipped his head with a tiny smirk. "You think you're so clever," he teased but reached for the plaited silver handles and held on tight- a high class shopping bag was akin to fashion accessory after all.
They found themselves once more in a coffee shop, Blaine nibbling a biscuit as Kurt talked incessantly.
"As prom isn't at Dalton and is at that other venue, which I definitely approve of after extensive research, I wanted to ask you something?"
Blaine peeked over the rim of his mug. "Anything."
"Would you mind getting dressed at my house? I kind of want my dad to be there and Carole would love it. I know my dad doesn't seem like the kind of guy who'd want to help his son get ready for his high school prom, even if I'm not graduating this year but he's been there for everything and I think I'd like him around."
Blaine smiled, watching Kurt muse about his father. It was true, Burt didn't seem like the kind of dad to bill and coo over fancy events but if Blaine knew one thing about the Hummel family, it was the strength of the bond they had and the amount of love that Burt held for his son.
"Of course I wouldn't mind. It sounds perfect. It's a plan." Kurt watched with a delirious smile as Blaine tapped a quick message on his phone. "I'll be right back, just going to go to the rest room."
Kurt nodded, sipping the cream off his coffee, the heat warming his throat as he swallowed more. He glanced over at Blaine's phone, the red light flashing over and over again in an attempt to notify someone that it had something to declare. Kurt didn't intend on reading the message but simply pressed a button to stop it flashing, however, in a second, the message flashed up on screen and Kurt found himself close to crying.
The thumbnail of the photograph they'd taken together had been sent to someone. Kurt glanced up at the name: Thomas Masters. Underneath the picture, Blaine had typed a small message.
"Having the best day. How beautiful is my boyfriend?"
Kurt didn't even have the chance to read Thomas' response as he heard the restroom door close. He dropped the phone, sliding his hands around his coffee once more, tighter this time. He was shaking for some reason, a torrent of emotions sweeping through his heart as he grinned dreamily into the side of his mug. He watched as Blaine dropped back into his seat, picked up his phone, read the response from Thomas and smiled perfectly, his teeth showing a little and eyes crinkling at the corners. Kurt was sure that life simply could not get better.
*swoon*