Two Steps Beyond
Part 56
When Sebastian opened his eyes the next morning everything still felt a bit surreal. He looked down to see Blaine asleep on his chest, yet the setting brought the previous day's events quickly back to mind. After they'd gotten home that night they both changed and crawled into bed, planning to watch a movie. From what Sebastian remembered, Blaine made it about a half hour into the movie before he was passed out cold. It was pretty obvious Mrs. Anderson was right when she said her sons looked exhausted.
Once he glanced over at the clock he realized why he felt so off. It was almost nine o'clock. Considering it was rather early when they got back to the Anderson home that night it was obvious Blaine wasn't the only one tired. He barely shifted in his spot when he felt Blaine's arm tighten around him. "B, you awake?"
"Barely, what time is it?"
"Almost nine, why?"
"We should get up then and head back to the hospital."
"Alright, but you need to let me go then."
"Only long enough to get out of bed." There was something about the tone of Blaine's voice that Sebastian had a feeling their morning shower was going to be anything but quick.
It was almost forty minutes later before they were out of the shower and getting dressed. Neither able to rid themselves of the smiles they had plastered across their faces. "You know if their home we're so busted."
"Right now, I don't care. Not like they did anything different last night." Sebastian just looked at Blaine. "You can't tell me you didn't hear them."
"Oh, I heard them; I just thought you were already asleep when they started."
"Nope, I was just really relaxed with you holding me. Though, I'm pretty sure they were still going at it when I fell asleep."
"They were at it for a while so I'm pretty sure they were."
When they made it downstairs Lexi was in the kitchen making breakfast. "Morning guys."
"Morning." Blaine replied before looking around the kitchen. "Where's Cooper?"
"He's running an errand for your Dad. The body shop needs someone there while they do the assessment and your Dad didn't want to leave your Mom."
"How is she?" Blaine asked while Sebastian got them each a cup of coffee.
"He said it was a rough night with the nurses constantly going in and out checking on her. But he said she has a bit more spunk this morning. And before I forget, when you two go out today you need to take your Mom's car."
"Not that I'm complaining but why?"
"Cooper took your Dad's since the rental has the car seats in it."
"Makes sense."
"Now, is that food for us too or just you?" Sebastian asked.
"You really think all this is for me?"
"Well, you did tend to eat a lot when you were pregnant." Blaine couldn't stop himself from laughing at the look Lexi shot Sebastian.
"I'm not pregnant Bas."
"Okay, just checking."
"Bas, stop while you're ahead." Blaine told him. "Thank you for cooking Lexi."
"You're welcome Blaine."
They were just finishing cleaning up the kitchen when Cooper came walking in. There was something about the look on his face that stopped Blaine in his tracks. "What is it Coop?"
"Be happy Mom was driving the SUV and not her car Blaine. I now know why Mrs. Sterling was so shaken." Cooper then tossed an envelope onto the counter. "Make sure I bring this with today, Dad's going to want to see them."
"How bad was It Cooper?" Judging from the look on Cooper's face, Sebastian walked up behind Blaine and wrapped his arms around him.
"It's totaled. She got T-boned; thankfully it was on the passenger's side. Mom's really lucky Blaine." Cooper's words hit Blaine harder than he realized, it wasn't till he felt Sebastian holding him up did it hit him.
"Bas."
"Let's go." Sebastian grabbed the keys off the counter before they headed for the garage. Once they were gone Lexi walked up to Cooper and pulled him into a hug.
"Coop, talk to me."
"What's there to say but, I…we could've lost her all because some jackass was in a hurry." For the first time since Lexi told Cooper the news he finally broke down. Luckily there was a stool nearby because there was no way Lexi would've been able to hold him up. So there Cooper sat, wrapped tightly in Lexi's arms as he cried.
Meanwhile in New York, Nick sat on his bed and watched as Santana basically tore the closet apart looking for something to wear that day. "I told you, if you can't find something we'll go shopping." He told her and was greeted by a clearly exasperated look.
"I can't afford to just go shopping Nick."
"Come, sit." Nick said while tapping the space on the bed between his legs. Santana looked at him for a moment, but soon found herself sitting where Nick wanted her. "You know there is nothing wrong with me taking you shopping."
"But…"
"Don't, okay. You came out here planning to be here for about ten days, correct?" Santana nodded. "And now you're staying out here. Add the fact that you managed to get an internship at Cassie's agency."
"Remind me to thank Seb for that when they get home."
"I will, but I doubt it's going to be something you're going to forget. Now where was I?"
"Trying to convince me to let you take me shopping."
"That's right. And I'm going to. You're whole life has taken a drastic turn since you've been out here part in due to me."
"Nick, I…I can't let you do this."
"Why, give me one good reason?"
"Because it would look like I'm just doing what others think, using you." Nick leaned his head back and sighed before sitting up slightly and wrapping his arms around her.
"I know that's not the case and if others feel that way, screw'em."
"But…"
"If it makes you feel better we won't go shopping on Fifth okay, we'll go wherever you want. And you can pay me back if that would make you feel better though it's completely unnecessary." Santana sighed in frustration. As much as she didn't want to take Nick up on his offer, she knew she needed to because she didn't have anything that was appropriate to wear out that evening with Cassie or that week for work. Nick was right; she came out to New York, packed mainly for vacation and maybe one or two nights out. Not for moving her whole life, though she didn't regret the decision she made one bit.
When Blaine and Sebastian finally arrived at the hospital Blaine was a bit more relaxed, partially due to Sebastian's recommendation he just scream at the top of his lungs while they drove down the road with the top down. "Feeling better B?" Sebastian asked before they got out of the car.
"I do actually. There's probably only a few things that could actually make me feel better than I do right now."
"That option is still on the table." Sebastian replied with a smirk and a wiggle of his eyebrows that quickly brought a blush to Blaine's cheeks.
"Later, not now especially in my Mom's car."
"I'm going to hold you to that killer."
"You won't get any complaints from me."
Once the top was up on the car they headed inside. Upon reaching Mrs. Anderson's room they found Mr. Anderson outside it talking with a doctor that actually looked familiar. They stood off to the side till Mr. Anderson spotted them and waved them over. "Come on over guys." The closer Blaine and Sebastian got they realized why Mr. Anderson looked so relaxed. The doctor Mr. Anderson was talking to was none other than Nick's Dad.
"I was wondering if I was going to see you two, how are you?"
"Good considering the circumstances." Blaine replied. "Not to be rude, but what are you doing here? Dad, did something change?"
"You can relax Blaine; you're Dad just asked me to stop by for a second opinion. And I agree with your Mom's doctor, she's going to be okay. She's in good hands; he's one of the best. Now if you all don't mind, I'm going to get going. I've got a few patients I need to check on."
"Thank you." Blaine said softly.
"You're welcome. And do me a favor."
"Sure."
"When you talk to my son, tell him to call his Mom."
"We can do that Mr. Duval." Sebastian replied.
"Thanks guys."
After he left Mr. Anderson looked at the boys. "This might sound awkward, but is there a reason you boys call him Mister Duval instead of Doctor Duval?"
"He said doctor sounds too stuffy at home." Blaine replied. "Same with Jeff's Dad."
"But with Jeff it opens up a whole other can of worms."
"That's very true."
"As entertaining as I'm sure this conversation is going to become why don't you two go inside while I go and get what they consider coffee. I'm sure she'd love the company." Blaine and Sebastian nodded and headed into Mrs. Anderson's room.
"Morning Mom!" Blaine said as he and Sebastian each took seats on opposite sides of the bed.
"Morning. I can honestly tell you I didn't expect to see you two so early."
"It's not that early." Sebastian replied.
"Considering how late you two slept some days, it is Seb." Sebastian smiled knowing she was right, before looking over at Blaine.
"What?" Blaine asked while taking ahold of his Mom's hand.
"Nothing. So, when do you get to go home?"
"I was told that if everything still checks out alright I can get out of here this afternoon thankfully."
"Dad told Lexi you didn't sleep well last night, why?" Blaine asked.
"They kept coming in to check on me. It seemed every time I'd drift off someone came in. Plus, this bed isn't really comfortable. Is Cooper coming by?"
"I'm sure he and Lexi will be here soon." Blaine told her. "He came back after we'd all finished eating breakfast so I'm sure she made sure he ate before they came."
"Where did he go?"
"Dad asked him to go to the body shop since he didn't want to leave you."
"It's totaled, isn't it?" Blaine just nodded. "Blaine, look at me sweetie. I'm going to be alright, so don't worry anymore, okay."
"I can't help it." She then carefully scooted over in bed. "Sit."
"Mom."
"Blaine." Sebastian stifled a laugh once he saw Blaine pout, because it was absolutely adorable. Once Blaine was sitting next to his Mom she turned slightly to look at him. "Thinking of what if scenarios aren't going to get you anywhere Blaine. We just need to be thankful that it happened the way it did."
"But Mom…"
"I appreciate your concern more than you realize, but the sooner we leave what happened in the past the better."
"I'll try."
"That's all I ask Blaine." She then gave him a kiss on the cheek. "Now, why don't you make your Mom happy and fill me in on all the gossip, I could use some entertainment. I don't need to tell you hospitals are a bit depressing."
"And what gossip are you referring to?" Sebastian asked.
"Why don't you start with the fact that Nick and Santana are now dating and she stayed in New York with him?"
"How do you…" Blaine started to ask before remembering that Mr. Duval had just been there. "They've been seeing each other since Regionals."
"But only became official about two weeks ago." Sebastian added.
"And what do you two think of them getting together?"
"I honestly never would've imagined it, but they're actually really good together." Blaine told her.
"B's right, they're actually really cute together." Mrs. Anderson started to laugh. "I know, me using the term cute doesn't seem right."
"Glad you realized that's why I started to laugh Seb. So you're telling me Cooper now has to deal with all six of you in the city."
"It's actually seven, Mom, Rachel's there."
"Eight actually B, Thad got to town before we left, remember." Mrs. Anderson couldn't seem to stop laughing as she listened to the exchange going on between the two of them. Her laughter was contagious as soon Blaine and Sebastian found themselves laughing as well.
"Looks like we missed out on the fun." Cooper said as they walked in.
"Good luck." Mrs. Anderson said to him.
"With?"
"Having so many of them in the city."
"It really hasn't been that bad, honestly. Now why don't you two scoot so we can have some time with Mom?" Blaine and Sebastian looked at each other before looking at Mrs. Anderson.
"You better keep her entertained." Sebastian said.
"We'll try, but it comes so naturally to two goofs like you two."
"Just shows who has more talent in the family." Blaine's reply caught everyone off-guard, even Lexi started to giggle.
"That was a low blow little brother."
"Relax Coop; we've got bedside humor while you've got big screen talent." Blaine said before carefully getting off the bed. Once he was off, he gave Cooper a hug and smiled up at him. "Love ya Coop!"
"Love you too! Cooper then kissed the top of Blaine's head before he and Sebastian headed off hand in hand. "So, how are you?"
"Ready to go home."
"I don't blame you. We tried to convince Dad to go home and get some sleep but he refused."
"That doesn't surprise me. Hopefully he'll take a nap once we get home."
"You're getting released today?" Lexi asked.
"I should be."
"That's wonderful. That helps explain why Blaine looks to be in such a better mood than when he left this morning. Since that's the case, is there anything in particular you'd like for dinner?"
"Lexi, you really don't need to."
"Mom, she's going to so just tell her what you'd like otherwise you'll end up with one of mine, Blaine, or Bas's favorites."
"Honestly, anything you choose to make Lexi would be appreciated. Now that you know I'm coming home, how long are you two going to be here?" Mrs. Anderson barely finished asking her question and she knew the answer judging from the way Cooper's shoulders slouched.
"I need to fly out Sunday night, but Lexi is willing to stay and help you and Dad get settled."
"I appreciate that but it's not necessary. You can all leave on Sunday. I'm sure Lexi has things to do as do Blaine and Seb."
"Mom."
"Cooper, neither you nor Blaine are going to know just how much having you all here meant to me and your Dad, even if it's only for a couple of days. But I don't expect you to all put your lives on hold."
"You know Blaine and I would do anything for you."
"I know that, which is why I'm asking you both to get back to your lives."
"But, someone is going to need to be here to help you when Dad is at work."
"It's already been taken care of Cooper. My friends are going to come by and keep me company during the day."
"Cooper, stop trying she's not going to change her mind." Mr. Anderson said from his spot in the doorway. "She gave it to me pretty good last night for even having you and Blaine come home. Told me I should've waited till I knew more."
"It was the right thing to do Mom."
"Where are Blaine and Seb dear?" Mrs. Anderson asked.
"I asked them to go and get me some real coffee. This flavored water just isn't cutting it anymore."
While they were talking the doctor came in to check Mrs. Anderson over one last time. So while he was with her, Cooper and Lexi waited out in the hall with the kids. "Is everything alright?" Blaine asked as he and Sebastian approached.
"The doctor is in with her." Cooper replied as Blaine and Sebastian handed them each a cup of coffee. "Hopefully all goes well and he signs her release papers."
"That would be nice."
"So you know, Mom wants us all to go back to our lives."
"I know, she mentioned the same thing to Bas and I earlier. What are we going to do?"
"Well, I'm flying to LA tomorrow night. Sadly I have to get back to work."
"Speaking of work, sorry about that jab earlier."
"It's okay. And don't cut yourself short Blaine, you're really talented."
"Thank you Coop. Since he's leaving does that mean we are too?"
"I hadn't booked flights for us yet. I wanted to talk with you and Bas first." Lexi told him.
"Alright, why don't we wait to see what the doctor says and then we can decide."
It was only about ten minutes later when Mr. Anderson came walking out into the hall and happily took a cup of coffee from Sebastian. "What's the verdict?" Cooper asked.
"She gets to come home."
"Can we go back in?" Blaine asked.
"The doctor is finishing up, but I thought you guys would like to know."
"We appreciate that Dad. Is there anyone we need to call?" Cooper asked.
"Actually, would you call your grandparents since I have some paperwork to fill out? And Blaine, please call Jeff's parents because I promised them I'd keep them updated."
"We can do that, right Blaine." Blaine nodded in response. After Mr. Anderson headed back into the room, Sebastian took Braeden from Cooper so he could make his calls. While Cooper and Blaine were each on the phone Sebastian went and sat down next to Lexi.
"How are you feeling sis?"
"Relieved, you?"
"The same. Did Cooper show you pictures of the SUV?"
"Yes and I made him promise not to show Blaine."
"That bad huh?"
"Yes. How was Blaine after I called yesterday because he seemed to take the news almost too well?"
"I actually got home while he was still on the phone with you. I had no clue anything was even wrong till after I got out of the shower. But when I laid down in bed next him, something just didn't feel right. Then before I knew it he curled up next to me and started to cry. It wasn't till I got your text did I realize how serious it was. Though Blaine doesn't normally cry like that so I knew it had to be something. How did Cooper take it?"
"He freaked, but it was to be expected. From his reaction I'm still kicking myself for not driving over to see Blaine or asking him to come over. Telling him over the phone was one of the stupidest things I've ever done. I'm just so happy you were there."
"Me too. This might sound weird, but did you tell Dad we're here?"
"I didn't. As much as I know he'd love to see us, now wasn't the time. Blaine and Cooper needed our full attention; I wasn't going to risk our family drama coming into play."
"Good idea."