Two Steps Beyond

Part 75

Santana was sitting at her desk prioritizing everything that had been left there since she left the day before when she looked up in surprise. "What are you doing back?" She asked upon seeing Cassie standing there. "I thought you weren't going to be back till Friday."

"Amazing what long days can accomplish. I got everything I needed done out there, but that leaves a lot of work for us this week. Are you up for it?"

"Of course. What do you need me to do?"

"I hate to do this, but for starters, I need coffee. I'm still not fully awake considering my flight left at oh-god –hundred this morning and I was stuck next to a chatterbox."

"Coffee, got it. Your usual?"

"Yes please. Get something for yourself as well then meet me in my office and bring everything that's gathered there since I've been gone." Cassie then reached into her purse and pulled out her wallet to give Santana some money. By the time Santana returned she was surprised by what she saw when she entered the office. "Thank you." Cassie said as she took the cup from Santana.

"You look a bit different." Santana said as she set the pile of folders on Cassie's desk before taking a seat.

"Yea, I didn't quite look professional in yoga pants, tank top and hoodie." Cassie replied while straightening her ponytail. "Now, please tell me you weren't pulled every which way while I was gone."

"I wasn't. I was left alone for the most part so everything you left me is now filed and put away. Plus I familiarized myself with your more time consuming clients as you asked."

"Excellent. Did you keep up with everything that's going on regarding Cooper?"

"I did. I made sure I had the alerts set up on my phone for everyone you mentioned, which included Cooper. Before I forget, was his agent able to reach you in LA after his last interview?"

"He did, everything has been taken care of. And I hate to do this, but tonight might end up being a mix of business and pleasure."

"How so?" Santana asked.

"With everything that has happened recently Cooper could find himself in an interesting situation at the gala since it gets media coverage. There is no way he's going to make it into the museum without getting noticed and I'm certain his movie isn't what he's going to be asked about. Now, since this isn't a usual red carpet I need you to get in touch with Lexi and find out from her who is going to be covering the event." While Cassie spoke, Santana started inputting everything into her tablet. The last thing she wanted was to forget anything Cassie was mentioning. "Then once you're done getting that information you're going to have to get in touch with Tasha."

"So, I need to speak with Kurt."

"Basically, unless Tasha has free time but with Fashion Week starting next week she's beyond busy. Tonight's about her only time to herself till Fashion Week is over."

"What information do you need?"

"I need to know which events Cooper is going to be at as well as the events Blaine and Sebastian will be attending. From what she told me, Blaine and Sebastian will be at more events than Cooper because of scheduling issues. But she didn't have them available when I spoke with her."

"Do you mind me asking why you need Blaine and Seb's schedules?"

"When you were upstairs with the guys, the five of us spoke and Lexi asked if I'd keep an eye on Blaine and Seb."

"So Blaine and Seb know about this."

"They do. If you flip through that pile of papers I handed to you, you'll see Blaine and Sebastian's contracts."

"It's weird hearing you call him Sebastian."

"I'm trying to separate my personal relationship from him with my business one."

"Would you rather I call him Sebastian also?"

"No need, I'm pretty sure it won't last for me especially around you. Just try and call him Sebastian around the boss."

"I can do that."

Once they finished talking Cassie started to make a few calls so Santana headed back out to her desk. She thought about calling Lexi first, but decided she'd call Tasha's office first. If she was going to have to talk to Kurt she'd give herself a safety net for afterwards. "Ms. Saunders office, this is Kurt how may I help you?"

"Kurt, it's Santana. Is Ms. Saunders available as Miss Clarington has some questions about events at Fashion Week pertaining to some of her clients?" Santana could hear him sigh in frustration on the other end of the phone.

"She's in a meeting right now and can't be disturbed. You could try back later."

"Since she's in a meeting, maybe you can help me out."

"What do you need Santana?"

"I need to know which events Cooper, Blaine, and Sebastian are scheduled to attend."

"Why?"

"Miss Clarington needs this information since she represents the three of them. I mentioned I was calling for information about clients."

"Blaine and Sebastian have a publicist?"

"Yes, they do. Now, do you have that information?"

"I do. Would you like it verbally or would you like me to send it in an email?"

"An email would be preferred since I'm assuming it would have the times and locations of each event."

"It would. Should the email be sent to you or Miss Clarington?"

"To me please." Santana then proceeded to give Kurt her email address at work. "How long will it be?"

"I'm sending it to you now so you should have it soon." They proceeded to have a cordial conversation till the email appeared. After she told him she'd received it Kurt made sure it was what she needed. "Does that work for you?"

"It does, thank you Kurt. This is the complete schedule for the week, correct?"

"It is. If anything new comes up I'll see that the changes are sent to you."

"Thank you Kurt, I appreciate that."

"No thanks are necessary; I'm just doing my job like you are doing yours." Once she got off the phone with Kurt, Santana forwarded the email to Cassie before calling Lexi and getting the information for the gala that night.

When Santana called Lexi she was surprised to get Cooper on the phone. "Hey Cooper, it's Santana. Is Lexi available?"

"She's working right now and really doesn't want to be disturbed. Maybe I could help you unless it's a girly issue for tonight."

"It's not a girly issue, but it is about tonight. Cassie needs some information about who is covering the gala this evening."

"For that, I'll bother her."

"Thanks Cooper."

"No problem. Heck, I'm pretty sure she wouldn't have minded being bothered about a girly issue for tonight. Are you excited?" Cooper asked as he headed up towards Lexi's office.

"I am, I'm also nervous."

"Don't be, you won't be alone." He then proceeded to ask Santana to hold on when he walked into the office. Since he didn't cover the phone Santana could hear the conversation between the two of them. She didn't try to listen, but what she did hear brought a smile to her face. They were absolutely adorable to listen to. "Here you go Santana. I'll see you tonight."

"Thank you Cooper."

"Hey Santana, what can I do for you?"

"Cassie needs to know who is covering the gala tonight."

"Alright, any specific reason why?"

"She wants to know who she'll be dealing with. She has a feeling Cooper's not going to be able to slip by when he enters."

"Got it. If you give me your email I'll send that information to you right now since I'm at my desk." Santana then proceeded to give Lexi her email. "Is there anything else you need?"

"That's all she asked for."

"Wait, did you say she wanted to know who she'd be dealing with tonight?"

"I did."

"When did she get back into town?"

"Only a couple of hours ago. She came into the office straight from the airport."

"Excellent, I was hoping she'd make it home in time."

"She made it."

"Alright, well I need to get a few things finished before Brittany gets here so she has some work to do. I'll see you this evening Santana."

"I'll see you then. Bye Lexi."

"B, where are you?" Sebastian called out once he reached the living room. He knew Blaine was there since music was filling the apartment.

"Bedroom." The instant Sebastian heard the answer he headed that way. When he reached the doorway he saw Blaine lying across their bed in a pair of sweats and nothing else. "How was practice?"

"Long. Did you get some sleep?" Sebastian asked as he emptied out his bag into the hamper.

"I did. I only got up about an hour ago. You seem to be in a good mood."

"I got some information today that helped put my mind at ease and I think it'll do the same for you." With that said Blaine sat up in bed and closed his book. "You don't have to worry about me at practice or at games."

"Why?"

"Michael has a restraining order against Trevor so he can't come near him. And the radiance is enough to keep him away from me as well during practice."

"Then how did he show up at practice that other day?"

"Michael wasn't there. He was away for his sister's wedding. So, does this bit of information help at all?"

"It does. Now I'll just be worried while you're in class." Blaine said with a smile as Sebastian lied down beside him.

"Hopefully you won't have to worry once my Dad talks with the University."

"I probably still will but I'm sure it'll help."

"Oh, you might be mad at me."

"What did you do Bas?" Blaine asked as he lied down and propped himself up on his elbow.

"I…I told Michael what happened to you, but only the bare basics."

"Okay."

"You're not upset?"

"If you shared that bit of information with everyone, I would be. But considering the same thing happened to him, no. But could you tell me why you did?"

"The guys noticed I seemed off, and then Michael asked if he could talk to me alone. One thing led to another and before I realized it I told him. He said he totally gets why you're worried. And he told me to be careful because dude is crazy."

"Lovely, at least he was honest."

"He knows this isn't something to take lightly. And before you get worried, I'm not his type."

"I wasn't, but thanks for reassuring me anyway. His loss, you're quite the catch."

"I appreciate that B. He prefers blondes and guys with a bit more muscle."

"What about your other teammate?" Blaine asked while pushing a strand of hair off of Sebastian's forehead.

"Not sure his type since he's a bit shy. But from what the other guys said I don't have to worry about him hitting on me."

"Why is that?"

"He prefers to be pursued."

"Your teammates are crazy that you all know so much about each other."

"Agreed, I know quite a bit about a bunch of the guys from playing in the summer. They're a lot like the Warblers, but crazier if that's possible."

"From what I saw, I can believe that." Sebastian then leaned over and kissed Blaine. "What was that for?"

"I just wanted to. It's been awhile since we've done nothing but kiss. I miss it."

"It's not that we haven't tried. One of our libidos usually hinders it and the other doesn't resist the temptation." Blaine said before leaning into kiss Sebastian. "Nothing stopping us from doing it now."

"Are you sure?"

"Positive." When Blaine answered a smile crept to Sebastian's face. "From that look you like the idea?"

"Absolutely."

Sebastian had just straightened his tie when Blaine came walking out of the bathroom after doing his hair. "Wow." Blaine said once his eyes settled on Sebastian. "You look incredible Bas."

"Why thank you B." He replied as he put his vest on. "You look amazing as well."

"Thank you. Are you wearing cufflinks Bas?"

"I am, why?"

"It looks really nice."

"If you want there are a few more pairs in the little chest on the dresser, help yourself." Blaine walked over to their dresser and opened the chest.

"There are more than a few pairs in here Bas."

"Okay, I underestimated, but still. Wear whatever pair you want. I need to go fix my hair." It took a bit, but Blaine soon found the pair he wanted to wear, simple black onyx. When Sebastian came back out Blaine had just put them on. "Nice choice."

"Thank you." As Blaine answered Sebastian slid his arms around Blaine's waist. "What is it?"

"I'm just happy, that's all."

"Me too." Sebastian then leaned down and kissed him. "I guess we should finish getting ready, shouldn't we?"

"I'd say we're ready except for putting our jackets on."

"You're right; I guess I'm just a little nervous."

"I know you are, just relax. Basically we're going to have a fun night with our friends while being seriously dressed up. Though, I'm sure Lexi is going to take us around and introduce us to quite a few people."

"I remember her mentioning that. At least Coop will be there through it all."

"Did you see his recent interview? He handled himself really well."

"I noticed that as well. He seems to be getting more comfortable giving interviews. It's nice to see. I'm really happy for him Bas."

"I know you are B." They were still looking up at each other when the house phone rang. "I guess our ride is here."

"I think you're right." Blaine then leaned up and kissed Sebastian. "Time to go do this." Once they let go of each other they grabbed their jackets off the bed and headed on their way.

On their ride over they received a few texts. The first from Cooper, asking if they were on their way since Lexi was anxious to see them. The next from Jeff asking if they were on their way because the four of them were nervous as can be and wanted to make sure people they knew were there when they arrived. Blaine replied, and told him they were on their way but Cooper and Lexi were already there. As the car slowed Blaine took Sebastian's hand in his. "Remember, there will be lots of pictures taken when we get out."

"I know. Lexi and Cassie seemed to make a point out of reminding us of that fact."

"They just wanted us to be prepared considering everything that's happened. Now, here's the big question."

"I say we wing it. Whatever happens, happens."

"Works for me." Sebastian then leaned in for one last kiss before they had to get out as the people in front of them were just getting out of their car. When the door opened Sebastian made his way out followed by Blaine who just looked up at him. With a smiled exchanged between the two of them they started to make their way up the steps. It seemed with each step more flashes went off. "I should've brought my sunglasses."

"I was thinking the same thing." Blaine replied as they reached the entrance. As they walked through the doors, they looked at each other again upon spotting Lexi and Cooper. "She looks incredible."

"She's cleans up pretty well, doesn't she?"

"Looking good guys." Lexi said after giving them each a hug. "I see you survived the trip in."

"We did." Blaine replied. "You look amazing."

"Thank you."

"So do you Coop." Sebastian added.

"Thanks guys, but no one is looking at me tonight as long as she's around." Cooper then leaned down and kissed her. "I am more than happy to be arm candy this evening."

"I need to say this, but damn that's a lot of sparkle around your neck." Blaine said as Sebastian slid his arm around him.

"I know, but I don't get to wear it often."

"That necklace was our grandmother's." Sebastian told him. "I'm pretty sure she's got at least fifty carats around her neck right now."

"That's red carpet worthy."

"Cassie has mentioned that a few times. But she's one to talk, wait till you see her."

"She's here?" Sebastian asked.

"She is, I saw her about twenty minutes ago." The boys then watched as Lexi nudged Cooper. "Do you see that?"

"See what?" Cooper asked, and by this time Blaine and Sebastian were looking where Lexi was.

"It's Tasha, so?" Sebastian said.

"I know it's her silly, it's who she's with. Did you know about this Coop?"

"No."

"Would someone please tell me who she's with?" Blaine asked.

"That's Steve, as in, my editor. I didn't even know they knew each other." Before the conversation could continue any further Tasha and Steve approached. "You look beautiful Tasha."

"Thank you, so do you." The way the two girls looked at each other Blaine, Sebastian, and Cooper had to stop themselves from laughing. "I know, I have some explaining to do. Can we do it tomorrow over lunch?"

"That sounds like an excellent idea."

"You're not upset, are you Lexi?" Steve asked, finally injecting himself into the conversation.

"Of course not. I just want to know why I was left in the dark since you two look pretty close when you walked in." Knowing that look on Lexi's face all too well Sebastian took ahold of Blaine's hand.

"We weren't sure how you were going to react." Steve told her. "It wasn't till we'd gone out a few times did we realize we knew people in common."

"I see." Lexi said with a slight giggle. "Steve, I'd like to introduce you to my brother Sebastian and his boyfriend Blaine."

"It's nice to finally meet you Sebastian. Blaine. Lexi told me you had a wonderful time in Europe."

"We did, thank you." Blaine replied. "Thank you for your help as well."

"My pleasure."

While they spoke Cassie came walking over. After greeting Blaine and Sebastian, Tasha introduced her to Steve which earned her a look that didn't go unnoticed. "What can we do for you?" Cooper asked.

"I need to borrow the two of you." She said, looking directly and Cooper and Lexi. "There are a few people that would like to speak with Lexi and once they realized you were her husband your presence was requested as well."

"I'm sorry dear, you should be enjoying yourself."

"That's quite alright; I'm rather used to it. Plus this is keeping me busy so I don't kill Hunter once he gets here."

"He mentioned you weren't too happy with him." Sebastian said.

"You could say that. I can't believe he's bringing two dates."

"He said the girls don't mind." Blaine said.

"That's because they have no respect for themselves. I swear he's only doing this to stroke his own ego."

"Does he know you're home?" Cassie shook her head in response to Blaine's question. "This should be interesting then." After Cooper and Lexi walked off with Cassie the boys looked at Tasha who looked a bit nervous.

"She's fine, relax." Sebastian told her. "You just surprised her, but in a good way."

"I know, I still should've told her before tonight considering everything that's happened. Speaking of everything, are you two going to be okay next week?" They both nodded. "Good, but know Cassie is going to be there when she can."

"That's a relief." Blaine replied. "Now, not to be rude but I see Hunter and I think it would be wise to warn him that his sister is here."

"That's a good idea." Tasha told them before they headed off. As they were crossing the room they spotted Nick and Santana.

"Well, what do we have here?" Sebastian said after giving Santana a kiss on the cheek. "You look beautiful." She'd decided to go with the dark plum gown and her hair was in soft curls. "You look good too Nick."

"Thank you. You both look great, but I should've expected such." Santana said.

"Where are Brittany and Jeff?" Blaine asked.

"They are getting something to drink." Nick replied. "Did you two survive that entrance, kind of crazy?"

"We did." As Sebastian answered Hunter came walking over along with his dates. "Beware man."

"Well hello to you too. What's going on?"

"Cassie is here." Blaine said which caused Hunter to go expressionless.

"She is?" When he asked they all could've sworn he'd shrunken in size. His normal confidence seemed to disappear upon hearing his sister was there.

"She arrived back this morning." Santana replied.

"Hunter, what's wrong?" One of his dates asked.

"Nothing."

"You are so screwed man." Sebastian said with a laugh as he wrapped an arm around Blaine's shoulders. "She's not happy with you."

"That's something you don't have to remind me about." While Hunter spoke, Jeff and Brittany appeared. "You look beautiful Britt."

"Thank you Hunter."

"He's right, you look stunning." Blaine told her. "You look good too Jeff."

"Thanks, but she clearly looks better." Since they were all there Hunter proceeded to make introductions. While he spoke, they could all see he was on the lookout for Cassie.

"You're okay for now, she's with Coop and Lexi." Blaine told him but soon looked up at Sebastian. "Or maybe not."

"What's that supposed to mean?"

"Here come the three of them." Sebastian replied.

"This makes things easier, doesn't it Lexi." Cassie said after greeting everyone.

"It does."

"What?" Sebastian asked.

"I need you and Blaine to come with me." Lexi replied.

"And Nick, I need to borrow your date for a moment. But you're welcome to come along." Cassie said and watched as they exchanged looks.

"Coop, you coming with?"

"I am."

"And Hunter, make sure you come home this evening. We have to talk." Cassie then kissed her brother on the cheek before heading off with the others.

"Seb was right, you're screwed." Jeff told him as he slid his arm around Brittany's waist.

While they crossed the room Lexi told Blaine and Sebastian that there were a few people they needed to meet. As the four of them walked away, Cassie stepped up to Santana and Nick. "You're wondering why I wanted you to come with, aren't you?" Santana nodded. "Once Lexi is done introducing the boys to a few people Cooper is going to do a brief interview."

"What about?"

"When he and Lexi arrived today he was asked about what happened at the premiere."

"I'm assuming he didn't answer."

"Correct. Though, we arranged for him to speak to the reporter in a little bit."

"Why didn't he do it then if you don't mind me asking?"

"He didn't do it then because first, he didn't want to take away from what this event is about. And secondly, he didn't want to be mid-interview when Blaine and Seb arrived. Due to the fact that Cooper wasn't around they made it in with only photos being taken. But if they were spotted together things might've gotten out of control."

"Does Blaine or Seb know he's going to do this?"

"Cooper's going to talk to them."

Once the introductions began, Blaine and Sebastian put their best manners on display. It was clear from the smile on Lexi's face she was pleased with how things were going. They were all pretty thankful that only a couple of people were aware of what happened at the premiere. As they were finishing up Lexi looked at the boys. "Thank you, I hope that wasn't too tedious."

"It wasn't that bad." Sebastian replied. "Just tell me we don't have to remember everyone."

"You don't. The main reason this happened is everyone knew you guys were here and wanted to meet our brothers."

"That one lady looked utterly confused when she realized Bas and I were together."

"I saw that too." Cooper replied. "Now, are you guys sure you don't mind me doing this interview?"

"Positive." Blaine told him. "But like always, I'd prefer my personal life to remain private."

"That I know and I respect that. It's one thing for people to want to know about me, you two are a different story." Cooper then looked over his shoulder where Cassie, Santana, and Nick were standing. "I'm ready." Once they walked over, Cooper gave Lexi a kiss on the cheek before walking off with Cassie and Santana.

"What you didn't want to watch?" Sebastian asked as he took a seat.

"I'm sure I'll hear all about it. Do you guys mind if I ask you something?" Nick asked.

"Ask away."

"What was wrong yesterday?" Blaine and Sebastian looked at each other and then at Nick.

"Britt?" Blaine asked.

"Yea. She said you two stopped by the house which by the way made her very happy. But she said it looked like something was going on."

"Are you free tomorrow?"

"I am, why?"

"Come over to the house after twelve." Sebastian told him. "We'll tell you then. This isn't the place to have this conversation."

"Understood."