Two Steps Beyond
Part 11
Check-in was going relatively smooth except for an older man that was frustrated by the fact that Blaine and Sebastian were ahead of him in line. "You boys do realize this is the line for first-class."
"We do, but obviously that doesn't mean manners come with it." Sebastian replied while rolling his eyes. "Do you think we don't belong here?" Sebastian clearly had his defenses up as the man was being a complete jerk.
"He's not worth getting frustrated over Bas." Blaine said while taking his hand. "Just relax. This is no way to start things off."
"I should've known."
"Known what?" Blaine said while they both turned to face him once more. But once they saw his eyes on their hands they knew. "You sir are ignorant." Before anything else was said they were called to the counter.
"Are you boys alright?" The ticked agent asked while weighing their luggage.
"Yes. Just an ignorant jerk to deal with, that's all." Sebastian replied.
"Don't mind him, he's always like that."
"Please tell us he's not flying to London." Blaine said.
"You're safe; he doesn't go to London till the end of the month. Well, you boys are all set. Have a wonderful flight!" While they walked away, they couldn't help look back as the man was giving the poor ticket agent one heck of a time.
"People like that really shouldn't fly." Sebastian said while they walked towards security.
"Tell me about it. Though it would've served him right to be seated across from us the entire flight."
"So very true, now I hope that you're not upset that you no longer have a window seat because of the upgrade."
"I think I'll survive. Though I might make you get on the Eye a couple times to make up for it."
"That is something I can accept. Is that what you want to do first?"
"If we can, I've heard the view is pretty amazing."
"Then it'll be our first stop." Sebastian said just as they took their seats in the lounge. While they sat and talked Sebastian pulled his phone out and flung an arm around Blaine. "Time for the first of many pictures." Once Sebastian got a pic of the two of them that they both approved up, Blaine just smiled while watching him.
"Whatcha doing Bas?"
"Letting everyone know we're officially on vacation." Sebastian then handed Blaine his phone and showed him his newest tweet.
"You're a tweeting fool, you know that."
"Yep!"
"It's official guys, we're without the Blaine and Seb for a couple of weeks." Nick said while setting his phone down.
"What do you mean?" Thad asked since they were all sitting out back at Jeff's.
"They are at the airport."
"How do you know?" Dave asked.
"Check your Twitter guys; Seb even posted a pic of them at the airport."
"Wonder why he tweeted instead of posting to Facebook?" Trent asked.
"That's probably because A, Seb's a tweeting fool and B, Kurt can't follow him on Twitter."
"You're smart Nick." Brittany replied from her seat in Jeff's lap.
"Thank you Britt. What are you doing Jeff?"
"Tweeting back. Are you sure Kurt isn't on Twitter?"
"According to Rachel, no. He thinks it's pointless."
"Well, the guys are all together." Sebastian told Blaine while he flipped through his book. "They all hope we have a great time and are super jealous."
"You got all that from a tweet."
"Multiple tweets actually, plus a picture of them all posted by Jeff. Check yours as they've sent the messages to you too and it would shock them if you actually reply." The rest of the time they waited to board their plane was spent exchanging messages back and forth with the guys. Just after the call was made to board they both said their goodbyes to guys for the time being. "Ready?"
"Absolutely."
Once they were seated Sebastian kept glancing over at Blaine who seemed overly fidgety. "I think someone's excited."
"I'm not hiding it very well, am I?"
"You don't have to hide it." Sebastian replied while taking Blaine's hand. "I love the fact that you're excited. Hopefully once that excitement wears off you'll be able to sleep though, because you're going to need to sleep during the flight."
"I'm glad it doesn't bother you, because there's no hiding how I'm feeling, especially after yesterday. And yes, I know I'm going to need to sleep during the flight if I want to do things tomorrow." Slowly Blaine's enthusiasm started to subdue and he was able to sit back and relax. Once he did, the two of them grabbed their headphones and started to look for something to watch. Knowing each other well enough they each chose a movie for the other to watch that would help them relax enough so that they'd be able to sleep. Even with as excited as they both wore, it didn't take long for either of them to fall asleep, especially since their seats had been turned into beds once they reached altitude.
When Sebastian finally awoke they were probably about an hour out. "Morning Mr. Smythe, may I get you anything?" The flight attendant asked.
"Coffee please, also some for Mr. Anderson."
"Yes sir." Once she walked away, Sebastian shook Blaine gently.
"B, you need to get up." With as peaceful as Blaine looked sleeping Sebastian wished he could've just let him be, but knew it took a bit for Blaine to fully awake. And he knew Blaine would want to be awake once they began their decent.
"What time is it?" Blaine mumbled softly.
"Not sure, but we're about an hour out according to the flight attendant." Once the words flight attendant left Sebastian's lips Blaine's eyes opened.
"I slept the whole flight?"
"We both did. I'm pretty sure we were both out shortly after they made over our seats." Just as Blaine sat up, the flight attendant returned with their coffee.
"Morning Mr. Anderson. Mr. Smythe thought you'd like some coffee."
"He was correct." Blaine replied while stretching. "How are we getting to the house Bas?"
"Car service."
By the time they were both sitting upright and completely awake, an announcement was made stating they'd begun their decent. Blaine just glanced over at Sebastian and smiled. "Bas."
"Yes B."
"We so need to thank your Dad."
"Tell me about it. This was even a first for me. Usually when I've flown he's booked me in business class for the extra leg-room. It's going to be hard going back. This is definitely the way to fly across the pond." Once they disembarked the aircraft, Sebastian grabbed a hold of Blaine's hand so he wouldn't lose him with how busy the terminal was. As they made their way through the terminal, Blaine just kept looking around while Sebastian guided him through the crowd. "You need to have your passport ready B." He told him once they got in line for immigration. "This should go quickly, mainly they're making sure your passport is up to date and you have all your documents, which we have. Then it's onto baggage reclaim and customs." Blaine just looked up at him and smiled. Sebastian had everything under control so all Blaine had to do was follow his lead.
Just like Sebastian said, it went quickly. Unfortunately the same couldn't be said for claiming their luggage since the carousel it was supposed to be coming in on decided to stop working. It wasn't too long, just more of an inconvenience. Since they were just arriving, customs was a breezes since neither had anything to declare. Shortly after they left customs Blaine spotted a drive holding a sign reading Smythe. "I think that's for us."
"Me too." Sebastian replied with a wink. But before going any further they decided to take a picture documenting their arrival. Once that was done they kept walking.
"How long is the drive going to be Bas?"
"I think about a half hour, it all depends on traffic though." Sebastian replied before walking up to their driver. Once it was confirmed that he was there for them they followed him out. While their driver took care of their bags they got settled in the car.
"Are you tweeting our arrival?"
"Of course. That way none of them can wonder if we've arrived. I'm also going to send it in an email to the parentals as well as Lexi and Cooper so we don't wake them."
"We still need to call them."
"We will, but they should be sleeping right now. This way they have confirmation that we're here. And knowing my sister at least she'll open her mail first thing."
"Same with my Mom." On the drive to the house Sebastian pointed out everything he could possibly think Blaine would be interested in during the drive. "Um, Bas." Blaine said once they pulled up to the house. "This place is huge."
"I know. This house was bought prior to the place in Manhattan. I can't even tell you how many times I got lost inside as a kid." Sebastian replied before getting out of the car.
"I know you said your family was wealthy, but this is crazy wealth."
"I guess I just don't think about it. If you're uncomfortable we could always go and stay at a hotel?"
"No, I'm just in shock that's all. So this place is Lexi's now?"
"Yes. Now you know why my Dad was a little pissed that most everything was left to her. I even received more than he did, though I can't touch most of it for a while."
"Where are we exactly?" Blaine asked as they headed for the door.
"Kensington."
Once they were inside Blaine just looked around. The foyer was strangely familiar and after a while he realized why, it was just like Lexi's home in Manhattan but on a much grander scale. He couldn't help wonder if the place in Manhattan was built to resemble this home. "Welcome back Sebastian. And you must be Blaine, welcome to England." Blaine just looked up at Sebastian.
"Blaine, I'd like to introduce you to Charles."
"Hi." Blaine's answer was a bit timid.
"How are you? Lexi didn't tell me you still cared for the house."
"I'm good. After your grandmother passed away, Alexis thought it best to keep me on to care for the household since she's mainly living stateside now. As she requested the main suite has been set up for you both. Would you like me to take your bags up to your room?"
"That would be great because I'd love to show Blaine around."
"Very well."
Since their bags were taken care of, Sebastian took ahold of Blaine's hand. "Would you like me to show you around now?"
"I'd love it." After showing Blaine around downstairs, they walked out a set of French doors into the backyard. "It's stunning Bas." Blaine said while looking out onto the perfectly manicured yard.
"It sure is, looks as though Lexi is keeping it just as my Grandma did." While they started to walk through the yard Blaine stopped suddenly. "What is it B?"
"Just wanted to look at something." Sebastian turned his head curious to what Blaine was looking at. "You were right, there is lots of privacy."
"Are you considering what I mentioned?"
"Just keeping abreast of my options Bas. When do you want to head into London?"
"Whenever you want. The next two days we're just going to wing it. There are no set plans till Wednesday. And I'm pretty sure you're going to be ecstatic with what I have planned."
"Am I?"
"Yes you will." The confidence in Sebastian's voice brought Blaine's gaze up to Sebastian. Just by looking at him, Blaine had no doubt that whatever Sebastian had planned would be amazing. When they walked back into the house Charles was waiting in the kitchen.
"Here are your metro passes Sebastian. Also, there are two bicycles ready to go if you and Blaine would like to take a ride while you're here."
"Thank you Charles."
"Should we expect you home for dinner?" Sebastian glanced down at Blaine who just smiled.
"Yes, since we can always go out again afterwards."
"Usual time Sebastian?"
"Yes Charles."
"Do you remember the way to the station?"
"Yes, though thank you for asking."
"Enjoy yourselves. Remember, if you're going to be late just call so we can hold dinner." Sebastian nodded. They were just about to head out when Sebastian stopped.
"Don't forget your camera killer."
"Where's our room?" Blaine asked while turning towards the stairs. Before Sebastian had a chance to answer Charles told Blaine where to go. Sebastian wasn't sure how he did it, but Blaine had made it up to the third floor and back in no time at all. "I'm ready." Sebastian just smiled and took Blaine's hand before walking out the door. They were halfway to the Tube when Blaine looked up at him. "Bas, did you get our Metro cards?"
"No, I'm assuming Lexi took care of it or asked Charles to. I was just going to get them at the station. Now, I know you're going to want to pay for yourself. But so you know, I've already taken care of everything for our day on Wednesday and you're not paying me back, okay?"
"I can accept that as long as you let me treat you to something while we're here."
"Deal."
Once they were on the Tube, Sebastian filled Blaine in on everything to see that was near the Eye. Blaine pretty much wanted to see everything, so they decided after their trip on the Eye they'd just see where they ended up. While waiting in line, both of them took quite a few pictures including quite a few of the both of them. After boarding their pod, Blaine got settled near the rail while Sebastian stood behind him. "They're right, the view is incredible." Blaine said while glancing back at Sebastian.
"It sure is, in more than one way." Blaine couldn't help but smile since he knew what else Sebastian was referencing. "How about a pic with London in the background B?"
"Sounds great." After taking a couple of pictures with both cameras they went back to taking in the view. "The guys are going to be super jealous if you keep doing that."
"Think of it as our way of bringing them on our little adventure without actually having them here." Sebastian replied before sliding his phone back into his pocket.
After leaving the Eye, they headed for Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster since it was on Blaine's must see list. Even though they were most definitely sight-seeing they didn't look like it since the camera Blaine brought fit in his pocket. Plus they weren't walking around with a gigantic map showing all the sites. For all the times Sebastian had been there before, he'd never taken the tour. "That was amazing B." Sebastian said once they were back outside. "The view from the top of Elizabeth Tower is amazing. And seeing the inner workings of the clock, just wow."
"Told you a tour can be fun, I can't believe we got into the midday tour without advanced tickets."
"We've got excellent timing. So, where to next?"
"I was thinking the Jewel Tower or 10 Downing Street."
"Either works for me, since they're in the same direction. We'll stop at whichever one we reach first." Once they were done at both of those places, Sebastian looked down at his watch. "Do you want to keep going or head back?"
"Why?"
"It's almost dinner time. But if you want to stay I'll just call Charles."
"No, we can head back." Sebastian just smiled as Blaine took his hand. "Do you think we can take a bike ride after dinner? That sounded nice when Charles mentioned it."
"Of course. There are some beautiful parks nearby that we can bike through. And depending we can check out Kensington Palace, or at least ride past it since it's already closed to visitors. We can visit there tomorrow along with the Tower of London."
"Sounds perfect to me Bas, just like today has been so far."
"I'm glad you're enjoying yourself."
"I'm not the only one."
"You're correct, you're not. I'm enjoying myself too."
"Cooper! Cooper! Come here!" Lexi yelled from her office.
"Good thing the kids are sound sleepers, what is it?" He asked while walking into her office
"Check out the pics the boys have uploaded so far." Cooper walked closer to her desk and waited for her to stand so he could sit. Once he sat down, he pulled her onto his lap. "For day one, it looks like they're having a great time."
"They sure do. There is no doubt they're having fun and they were blessed with gorgeous weather. Look at that sky; it's clear except for a few clouds. Do you think Mom has seen these yet?"
"Don't know, we could always call her."
"If we don't hear anything from her by tomorrow morning we will. From what Dad said, it was hard for her to let Blaine go. But seeing how happy he looks will surely make her feel better. Now, since they're not around, care to tell me what Bas has in store for my brother."
"What, you don't want to be surprised when you see the pictures Wednesday?"
"See, you even know what day this surprise is happening. Not fair."
"That's because I helped Bas set it up with a little help from my editor."
"What does Steve have to do with this?"
"Well, he's more like the boys than you realize. He's a bit of a Potter fan; actually he's quite the Potter geek, like Blaine. So, don't' try talking to him about it unless you've read the books, he'll know."
"I'm safe there as I've read them all."
"You did?"
"Yes dear, I did. It was so Blaine and I would have something to talk about when I'd call. Sometimes the age difference separated us too much."
"Got it."
"So, between the three of us we found the perfect place for Bas to take Blaine."
"I still don't get it."
"Oh Cooper. That's all the hints you're getting. Hopefully you can put the pieces together before Wednesday because I don't doubt for a second that Blaine won't make a big deal over it."
"That was amazing Charles." Sebastian said while leaning back in his chair at the table. "Wasn't it B?"
"I can't think of a better word to describe it."
"I'll let cook know it was appreciated. Now, are the two of you wanting to have dessert here or out on the back patio since it's a beautiful evening?"
"It's up to you B?"
"Outside sounds nice."
"Very well." Once Charles walked out of the room, Blaine reached over and took ahold of Sebastian's hand that was on the table.
"Are we going to be eating like that every night Bas?"
"If we're here, probably unless we say something to Charles. And breakfast will be made for us as well."
"Good thing we did all that walking today. Do you still want to take that ride later?"
"If you want to, yes, otherwise I'm good just relaxing here. We're going to need to make sure we go to sleep at a reasonable hour even if we're not tired."
"I was thinking the same thing. I don't want to miss out on anything while we're here." Just as Blaine finished speaking Sebastian stood up.
"Why don't we finish this conversation outside?" Blaine smiled and let Sebastian lead him out back. Once outside they cuddled up together on one of the couches.
"Charles was right, it's a beautiful evening." Blaine said while resting his head on Sebastian's shoulder. "I don't think I could ask for a better first day."
"It's not over yet B." Sebastian said before kissing Blaine's forehead.