Two Steps Beyond
Part 5
When they came back from their fitting and the grocery store they were surprised to find a box sitting on the table in the foyer. "Was that here when we first arrived Bas and we just missed it?"
"I don't think so. But let's put this stuff away first as these bags are heavy." After putting the groceries away, Blaine got started on dinner while Sebastian went to get the box. "It wasn't here when we arrived B. Lexi dropped it off. She even left a note."
"What did it say?"
Welcome Back Guys!
Here's the package Bas sent. Don't worry, I didn't open it no matter how tempting it was with some of the noises it made. Hopefully I'll see you guys before you leave on your trip.
Love, Lexi
"That was sweet of her to drop it off. And she's got to know we'll see her, right?"
"Yes B. It was just a cute reminder that she misses us. And I think she misses having someone to talk to during the day now that Coop is working again. I don't think Braeden or Jocelyn are quite the conversationalists yet."
"Understandable, it's not like she can get out and about the way she used too. Now Bas, what did you ship out here?"
"Our toys."
"What?"
"Our toys. I figured it was safer to get this stuff out here right away. I didn't want this box to accidentally get opened when the movers arrived nor risk opening it in front of Nick, Jeff, and Brittany."
"That's a pretty big box Bas."
"Tell me about it. I had to pack it twice; everything didn't fit in the first box I grabbed. Between our little shopping trips together and your splurge around Valentine's Day we're pretty covered for a while. The only time I see us shopping anytime soon is if we break something or run out of something. And running out anytime in the near future isn't likely."
"What was making noise that Lexi reference?"
"Probably the cuffs, I put them on the bottom. Where do you want me to put the box?"
"In our bedroom Einstein. Though, you could stash some necessities around the apartment."
"I'll see if I missed anywhere when we brought the stuff over from Lexi's."
"Bas, what did you do with all the condoms from Nationals?"
"I dispersed them almost evenly amongst the guys."
"Almost Bas?"
'I might've given Jeff more than the rest."
"And why is that?" Blaine asked without glancing back at Sebastian as the pot on the stove had come to a boil.
"That would be because Britt thinks the colored condoms are cool. And we both know Jeff is having more sex than the rest of the guys."
"Alright, as long as they went to Jeff and not us."
"We got our fair share as there are two of us."
They'd just gotten comfortable on the couch after dinner when Blaine's phone rang. "Can you reach that Bas?" Blaine asked since Sebastian had laid down with his head on his lap. Sebastian nodded and grabbed Blaine's phone off the table. "Hey Rachel." He answered while trying to suppress a yawn. "No, you didn't wake us. We just finished dinner. What can I do for you?"
"I heard you guys are back in the city for a few days."
"Let me guess, Kurt. I didn't realize you two were openly talking about Bas and I."
"He told me you two came in today for a fitting. Did you not want anyone to know you were here?"
"No, I was going to call you tomorrow. Figured the four of us could at least grab coffee or something while we were in town. We're going to be rather busy in the short time we're here but we both want to see you and Brody. I need to ask you something Rachel, what's going on with Kurt?"
"Ah, you must be talking about his new outlook on things."
"That's one way to put it. He actually apologized to Bas and I when he saw us at the Lima Bean one day."
"He told me. You guys are on the top of his apology list. He's trying to make a mends for all the shit he's pulled this past year."
"What brought it on?"
"First Chandler walked out on him after that night at Callbacks. They're back together now and are working things out though. But they were apart for about a month. I threatened to move in with Brody if he did anything else to Seb or you. And Tasha telling him he needed help as his hatred towards Seb was completely unhealthy and was causing him undo havoc in his life. So, for the past month or so he's been seeing a counselor once a week."
"Are you serious?"
"Yes. And I must say he seems a bit more like his old self though he does have his moments. But it's going to be awhile till he's well, Kurt again."
"Bas, Beat was right about Kurt that day at the Lima Bean." Blaine said softly while Rachel spoke. Sebastian just looked up at Blaine and smiled. It wasn't long after that Sebastian felt Blaine's fingers running through his hair while he spoke with Rachel. The way Blaine had his head tilted, Sebastian knew that Rachel must be rambling on, but Blaine was just content with what he was doing that it didn't bother him. "I don't know if I told you yet Rach, but Brittany is definitely moving out here as well. Yes, she's going to be living with Jeff and Nick. We'll talk more about it when we meet for coffee. Just remind Brody to give us a call and we'll work things out with him since his schedule is crazier than yours. Later Rach!"
"Sounds like someone had an espresso or two." Sebastian said as he rolled onto his back so he could look up at Blaine. "But she seems happy though."
"She did. It's nice to know she can actually have a conversation with her roommate again. I was a bit worried about her."
"That's understandable, but when things were really bad she wasn't there much from what Brody said."
"You two have gotten close, haven't you?"
"You could say that. He said it's nice to have someone to talk to that sort of understands all the crazy that went on back in Ohio but wasn't directly involved in it."
"I did keep you pretty informed about the on-goings at McKinley, didn't I?"
"Yes, much to Hummel's chagrin. I heard you ask her what brought on his sudden personality change, care to share?"
"Sure. Chandler left him after that night at Callbacks."
"No shit."
"Yep. And she threatened to move out if he kept up with his crap. Also Tasha talked with him."
"Tasha?"
"Yep. So basically, he got bombarded by people telling him to get a grip."
"That would be a great ring tone for Rachel to use for him."
"Huh."
"Aerosmith, Get A Grip. Nevermind, you're not a huge rock fan so it makes sense that you wouldn't know it."
"You could always play it for me Mr. Music connoisseur since I'm sure you have it."
"I do actually. I'll play it for you after we get up."
"Why doesn't that surprise me?"
"That's because you've seen my music library. If you want to see some pretty rare stuff, go into Lexi's office next time we're at the house. She's still got all of our grandparents' albums. There is some pretty classic stuff."
"We'll have to do that some time. Now, what would you like to do with the rest of our evening?"
"I'm good with what we're doing honestly. This past week was crazy. It feels good to just do nothing."
"I know what you mean."
The next morning when Blaine awoke it was the usual scenario since Sebastian was already out of bed. He was just about to get out of bed himself when Sebastian came walking through the door with a tray in hand. "Morning killer. I was hoping to be back before you got up."
"Sorry."
"It's okay." Sebastian replied with a smile. "I'll live. Now scoot back so we can have breakfast."
"You do realize I was joking when I said you owed me breakfast in bed after cooking dinner last night." Blaine said while scooting back. "I never expected this."
"I know, but I wanted to do this for you. So, what would you like to do today?" Sebastian asked while Blaine began to eat.
"Well, we need to go to the bank. But after that I'm game for anything quiet since Tasha told us to take it easy. This is really good, you need to have some." Blaine then handed Sebastian the other fork so he could enjoy breakfast as well.
"You're right, this is good. I impress even myself sometimes. Since that' the case, let's just wing it after we leave the bank."
"Works for me."
After finishing breakfast they just stayed in bed for quite a while enjoying the quiet of the morning. While lying there Blaine could see that sparkle in Sebastian's eyes that he loved so much. "You really have the most beautiful eyes Bas."
"Why thank you. What brought that on?"
"Don't know. I've always loved looking in them, but today there's just something special about them. They really do say a lot about what you're feeling."
"What are they saying now?"
"That you're happy. I haven't seen them like this in a while."
"That's probably because I've just been so stressed lately."
"That might actually be an understatement Bas. But I'm glad you're feeling better. Being back in New York is good for you."
"Agreed. And being here with you is even better." Sebastian then lowered his head just enough to kiss the top of Blaine's.
"Do you mind if I ask you something Bas?"
"Ask away."
"How were things with your Mother before we left?"
"Tense but a bit better, but that's not saying a lot considering how bad things got. She said her therapist is really nice. But that her patience will be tested as the therapist thinks her issues are pretty deeply rooted."
"If she meant what she said, this will be good for her. It'll work on numerous issues. And I truly believe she meant it when she said she wants to find out what causes her to do what she does."
"I hope so Blaine. I truly hope so."
Once they got up and moving things started to fall into place. After they each opened up new bank accounts they decided to just go for a walk to start getting their bearings. "It's nice being in a place where we don't get glared at all the time for holding hands." Blaine told Sebastian.
"I know. I don't feel stifled anymore. It's sad that the some of the only times we could truly just be was either at home or school."
"We don't have to worry about that anymore. And before you say anything, I know it's not going to be all sunshine and roses here either. So don't worry about that."
"I'm always going to worry about you, I love you."
"I feel the same way Bas, I love you too."
"Aren't you two just too sweet?" Blaine and Sebastian turned around and saw Cassie standing behind them. "Last thing I ever imagined was running into you guys in the city so soon after you graduated. How are you?"
"We're good. Just enjoying a quiet couple of days before Tasha puts us to work." Sebastian replied.
"So I've heard. Tash is really excited about this shoot. I haven't' seen her this excited over work in a while."
"That's because she's getting me, Blaine, and Cooper all to herself for a day."
"Oh, that must be it Seb. You okay Blaine, you're a little quiet."
"I'm good, but thanks for asking. So, what has you out and about today?"
"I need to go meet with a client in a little while. And between the three of us, she's a bit of a diva."
"Someone you represent, a diva, never."
"Cute Seb, I know. But for every one like her that I have, I have someone like Ricky who's a dream. P.R. sucks at times, but it pays well. You'd be surprised at how much gossip is true before someone like me makes a statement trying to refute it."
"Are you saying you color outside the lines Cassie?" Blaine asked.
"Often with a very broad brush guys. But as much as I'd rather talk with the two of you I should probably get going. If I don't see you before you leave, have a wonderful trip. I can't wait to hear all about it."
"I was just about to ask how you knew, but I'm sure Lexi has told you all about our trip."
"You've got it Seb. But I wasn't kidding, I need to go. Bye guys!" Once Cassie headed off, so did Blaine and Sebastian.
"She's a trip, you know that right." Blaine said to Sebastian as they walked.
"Without a doubt B. Now that we'll be living out here you'll get to see Lexi, Cassie, and Tasha quite a bit and they're a riot when they get together. I think that's one of the reasons I felt so comfortable when Lexi finally filled me in completely about Cooper."
"Clarify, as I'm already lost."
"Sorry. It's just, the fact that Cooper could deal with all three of them and that Cassie and Tasha honestly adored him. I knew he was right for her. Not only was she ridiculously happy, but Cassie and Tasha approved and they rarely approved of anyone Lexi dated. Plus after getting the chance to get to know him myself, I just knew he was perfect for her. It must be something in that Anderson DNA that us Smythes are attracted too."
"I never asked Coop, but how did the two of them meet?"
"At an after-party for a movie premier in LA."
"How romantic." Blaine said with a slight laugh. "So, they turned a chance meeting at a party into a relationship?"
"Yep. From what Lexi told me, Cooper swooped in and saved her as she was having a horrible time. And his adorkable charm was too cute for words."
"Adorkable?"
"Yes, her word, not mine. But since she had to come back to New York shortly afterwards they talked quite a bit on the phone. So, much so that a couple weeks later she flew back to LA just to see him."
"For starters, Cooper hates talking on the phone."
"Not in this case B. You really should talk to Cooper about this; it's a pretty cool story."
"Noted. Now, how about we head home? We've covered a good bit of the city."
"Sounds good to me. Do you want to just walk back or take the subway?"
"We might as well walk. What's twenty more blocks on top of what we've already done." Blaine said with a laugh.
"How about I...hold on a sec. Hey Brody, what's up?" Blaine just looked up at Sebastian and smiled as they changed direction to head back home while he talked. "Tomorrow is better actually. Blaine and I have done a bit too much exploring today and just need to take it easy tonight. Give me a call tomorrow to let us know exactly when you want to meet us. Later."
"And just how is Brody?"
"Tired, it's been a long day of rehearsal."
"I can only imagine. So, just where are we going tomorrow?"
"Don't know as he still needs to talk with Rachel, but he wanted to make sure we were free before planning any further." Blaine just looked up at him once he finished. "I was saying something before Brody called, wasn't I?"
"Yes, it was after I said something about what's twenty more blocks."
"Okay, what I was saying is how about I give you a massage when we get back? Or maybe we can try out that bath tub."
"You're becoming a bath junkie."
"What can I say, nothing beats soaking in a tub with you."
"Right, it has nothing to do with what often happens in said tub."
"Hey, we don't always have sex."
"True. How about a massage and then a bath?"
"Someone's getting greedy, but I like it. Just remind me before we get started to call Lexi and see if tomorrow morning is good for her."
"I hope it is, since we won't have much free time anymore now that we have tentative plans with Rachel and Brody tomorrow night. Then we're working Thursday and Friday."
"Possibly Saturday too if things don't go well."
By the time they returned to their building they were both pretty tired. While they were waiting for the elevator Sebastian looked down at Blaine. "Looks like I'm not the only one that could use a nap when we get upstairs." He said after seeing Blaine yawn.
"That might not be a bad idea, since it's still relatively early. I wonder how many miles we walked today?"
"Probably more than we should've considering the shoes we're wearing." Sebastian replied before they got on the elevator. Once they were inside their apartment, Blaine headed for their bedroom to lie down while Sebastian made a few phone calls. Sebastian was talking aimlessly when he walked into the bedroom and found Blaine stretched out across the bed sound asleep. "Guess he was more tired than I thought." Sebastian said aloud before getting closer to the bed. It was pretty clear that Blaine hadn't planned on falling asleep as he still had his shoes on. With as much as he wanted to give Blaine that massage he requested there was no way Sebastian was going to wake him up. So instead he took off Blaine's shoes before getting comfortable himself and joining Blaine for a nap.
When Sebastian finally awoke, Blaine was no longer in bed but he had a good idea where he was since he could hear the water running in the bathroom. "And here I thought I'd have everything set before you woke up." Blaine said while grabbing the portable speakers for the iPod.
"If it makes you feel any better I can close my eyes and pretend to be asleep."
"That's sweet, but you don't need to."
"I thought you wanted a massage first." Sebastian said as he sat up.
"I did when we first got home. But after the nap I just want to soak in a warm tub with you."
"I can accept that, but I owe you a massage. Do I at least get a sneak peek of what you're wearing under that robe?"
"Use your imagination since I'm sure you know what I'm not wearing." Sebastian then reached out for Blaine who was just out of his reach. "It should be ready so feel free to join me at your convenience." Blaine then walked into the bathroom with the speakers in hand. Blaine had been pretty thankful that Lexi had a dimmer switch installed in the bathroom, because bright light and a bath just didn't seem right. The second song of his playlist was just starting when he heard Sebastian clear his throat. Blaine glanced to the side while opening his eyes and saw Sebastian standing next to the tub with his robe wrapped around him.
"If you want me to join you, you need to move so I can get in." Sebastian watched as Blaine scooted forward enough so that he could get in behind him. He then took off his robe and tossed it onto the bench with Blaine's. Once Sebastian was settled Blaine leaned back against him.
"You're more comfortable than the back of the tub."
"Thanks, I think." Sebastian replied while wrapping his arms around Blaine. "Before I forget, tomorrow morning is good for Lexi. She's going to be home working, so whenever we want to show up is fine with her." While they soaked, they both heard one of their phones going off in the bedroom. "Can you make out who it is from the ringer?" Sebastian asked without even flinching.
"No, and honestly I don't care. I'm thankfully both of us left our phones out there. I'm enjoying this too much. And the thought of basically being disconnected from everyone while we're on vacation is a very pleasant thought. I love our friends and family, but I'm going to thoroughly enjoy having that time being just as with no interruption."
"Are you saying you want me all to yourself?"
"Yes. And I don't care if that sounds selfish. I can't wait to have you all to myself with no distractions."