Two Steps Beyond
Part 126
"Why did we decide to come back so late?" Blaine asked as they got out of the car in front of their building.
"That would because someone wanted to get in one last dive day." Sebastian replied while they gathered their luggage. "Not that I had a problem with it, but getting up tomorrow is going to suck." He continued before paying their driver. "I'm praying my morning prof isn't overly enthusiastic."
"Me too." Blaine replied as they headed inside.
"Welcome back gentlemen!" Walter said after they walked in.
"Thanks, isn't it a little late for you to be here." Sebastian replied as they stopped.
"Yes, but I'm here for a good reason. Do you need any help with your bags?"
"No, we're alright, but thank you." Blaine replied. "Will you still be here in the morning?"
"Hopefully not unless it's for my usual shift." Walter replied as he grabbed a couple of envelopes from behind the desk and handed them to Blaine. "These arrived before the holiday."
"Thanks." Sebastian told him. After talking for just a little bit more they headed for the elevators. "Please tell me you don't want to unpack when we get upstairs."
"I don't. The only thing I want to do is crawl in bed with you."
"My sentiments exactly."
When Blaine reached the subway station on Monday morning, he was surprised to see Jeff was already there. "Hey!"
"Hey yourself! Welcome back!"
"Thanks! How was your break?"
"Fun, but I'm sure yours was better." Jeff replied just as their train pulled in. "What did you guys do?"
"Honestly, we relaxed. We spent a ton of time outside, whether that was at the pool or the beach. We did quite a bit of diving, especially once Coop arrived. And we got spend some quality time with Cooper, Lexi, and the kids."
"I knew about the time with the kids since both of you tweeted up a storm about them. Lexi and Cooper, not as much."
"That would be because Bas and I had the kids quite a bit so they could enjoy their time together."
"When does he leave?"
"Tonight. At least his agent and Cassie arranged for him to make a couple of trips home during what should've been three full weeks away."
"That was nice. I'm sure Cooper and Lexi appreciate it."
"They do, they'll take whatever they can get. How'd the Christmas shopping go?"
"You need to come over after classes today."
"I take it that means it was a success."
"It was. Our whole place is decorated already. Are you and Seb decorating?"
"We're going to take the boxes out tonight and get started. That reminds me, I'm not going to rehearsal tomorrow so we can get a bunch of it done. Our goal is to have it finished before the weekend."
"Makes sense. If you want help, just ask Britt she'll be happy to help. Hell, we'd all be willing to help with as much fun as we had this weekend."
"We just might do that. How'd the other bit of shopping go?"
"Everyone was able to get everything they needed. And fair warning, any one of the girls might talk to you."
"About?"
"Tina called them and asked a bunch of questions. The most were concerning this past week but they did have a question about winter break." Blaine cocked his eyebrow at Jeff. "Yea, that was mine and Nick's thoughts as well. While we'll go if it'll make the girls happy, Seb is an entirely different story."
"It all depends on who will be there. Plus, we have no clue what our parents have planned. Bas and I cleared the night of the Winter Showcase and the Warbler party, but as for the rest who knows."
"Santana told her that as well. She told her we're only home for so many days so she didn't know if we'd be free."
"I know I probably shouldn't ask, but I'm going to, is Kurt going to be there?"
"Fear not, Santana asked and she was told they don't know as of yet. But according to Finn he's going to try and come home."
"Well, if Kurt's at that party we're not going it's not even up for discussion."
"Brittany and Santana said the same thing. Britt doesn't want her holiday cheer crushed by the Grinch. While Santana doesn't want to be tempted to go off on him and ruin the moment and Nick and I share her feelings."
"I mean, if he's home and we see him, fine. But I'm not going to willingly go to a party he's attending."
"I'm sure no one would blame you or Seb for feeling that way. And if they do, they're a dumbass."
"Looks like someone enjoyed their vacation." Sebastian looked up from the table he was sitting at and saw Nate standing next to him.
"I did. Have a seat. How was your break?" Sebastian asked once Nate was seated.
"It was enjoyable, though Florida was nowhere warm enough to get the type of tan you got. It was only in the low to mid seventies."
"Yea, B and lucked out. It was in the eighties during the days our entire trip. And the water was perfect for diving."
"Now here's an interesting question, did you have a normal Thanksgiving?"
"We did for the most part, though we went diving in the morning while Lexi worked on dinner, though she didn't go overboard. Then after we got back we played football on the beach. If Cooper wasn't leaving I'm sure our dinner option that night would've been different."
"That's right; he's got another movie coming out. When exactly?"
"The week before Christmas or technically, the Friday before Christmas since Christmas is on a Wednesday."
"From the trailers it looks really good."
"B and I agree. We're both looking forward to seeing it. Cooper is rather proud of it."
"Well, all the more reason to see it then. Have you seen any of the other guys?" Nate said.
"Surprisingly not, you?"
"Only Michael who looks about as happy as you do."
"Does he now? Well, personally I know there is a reason for my good mood. Wonder what his is?"
"You could ask." They both turned and saw Michael standing behind them. Sebastian then motioned towards one of the empty chairs so Michael took a seat. "Looks like you enjoyed your trip with Blaine."
"I did. What has you in such a good mood?"
"I had a very relaxing break. I spent some time with the family as well as Dylan. And not once did anyone bring up the crap with Trevor."
"That is a reason to be in a good mood. Anything else?"
"Oh, and I found out I'm going to be an uncle."
"Welcome to the club!" Nate said as he looked across at Sebastian who smiled. "It's fun. You get to spoil them and then hand them back to Mom and Dad."
"I will keep that in mind. Speaking of, looks like you and Blaine had fun with your niece and nephew during your trip."
"We did. The little munchkins are fun to be around. Speaking of, Nate have you set the date for our little pre-winter break get-together yet?"
"We're still debating between that Tuesday and Wednesday. All depends on everyone's finals schedules."
"Well, I can tell you if it's Wednesday, Blaine and I won't be able to make it."
"Why?" Michael asked.
"Lexi and Cooper leave for LA on Wednesday for the US premiere so we'll have the kids."
"That's a good reason. I will let John know. Personally I'm hoping for Tuesday since so many of the guys are leaving on Thursday. Must say, I'm glad they didn't drag finals till Friday."
"Same here." Michael said.
"Since you're a born and raised New Yorker, what are you doing for break?" Sebastian asked.
"I'm staying home for most of it, though immediately after Christmas Dylan and I are going skiing."
"How are you two handling Christmas?" Nate asked.
"Christmas Even with my family, Christmas with his. You guys?"
"Well, we spent Thanksgiving with my family this year." Nate said. "So Christmas is with Jenna's which should be fun. Maybe we'll see you on the slopes."
"Depends, where?"
"Vail. You?"
"Utah. What about you Seb?"
"I will be spending it with B's family, though my parents are going to be there at some point too."
"Any specific reason why?" Nate asked.
"My mother and I don't get along well."
"Enough said. Are Cooper and Lexi going to be there?"
"They will be coming into town sometime after his premiere and staying with the Andersons as well."
"It'll be a full house then." Michael said.
"That it will, but if last year was any indication, it'll be fun."
By the time Blaine got home from classes, he was surprised to hear Christmas music filling the apartment and boxes everywhere. "Welcome to Santa's Workshop!" Sebastian exclaimed after giving Blaine a kiss. "Your hat sir." As Blaine took the hat from Sebastian, he couldn't help but look at him. "What?"
"You look adorable." Blaine said with a big smile.
"I'm glad you think so."
"Where did you get those socks?" Blaine asked noticing the red socks with reindeer on them that Sebastian was wearing along with a Christmas themed t-shirt.
"I don't know, I'm assuming they were in my stocking last year. That means they either came from my sister or your Mom."
"That's a fair assumption. Looks like you've been busy."
"I have. Surprisingly I have no homework so I got all the boxes out. I figured we need to figure out what we have so we know what we need."
"Good call." Blaine replied as he took his shoes off. "Where do you want to put the tree?"
"I was thinking opposite corner from the piano, you?"
"Works for me, as the less furniture we need to move the better."
"My thoughts exactly. So, you didn't come straight home."
"That's correct. Jeff said I needed to check out their apartment since it was all decorated."
"How does it look?" Sebastian replied as he found the box that had the tree stand in it.
"Amazing! And he said Britt basically planned the whole thing. It's cute, but classy at the same time which I have no idea how they achieved it." Blaine said as he sat down next to Sebastian. "What type of look do you want to go for?"
"I haven't decided. But I'd like something similar to what they did. Have a nice balance between festive and classy. Sort of what like Lexi does in her home and what your Mom does."
"Then we're thinking along the same lines. One question."
"Shoot."
"Are we doing the windows?"
"I was thinking we would. If you look out quite a few people around us have so it wouldn't look out of place. And I called Lexi and since she never did them, we'll need to at least buy lights for that. But before you get started, do you have homework?" When Blaine's expression changed Sebastian scooted closer. "Well then, you better get to work if you want to help later."
"I can still help Bas."
"Start your homework B. And while you're doing that, I'll put the tree together and start going through everything. By the way, luggage has been unpacked and there is already a load of laundry in the machine."
"When did you get home?"
"About an hour and a half ago, why?"
"You've just gotten a lot done."
"What can I say, I'm well rested. Now get a move on so you can help me." Sebastian then gave Blaine a kiss before he got up. "I promise not to do anything besides what I told you." He said as he looked up at Blaine who looked rather sad. "I know you'd rather be doing this B, but if you don't have much the sooner you start the sooner you can help."
"I know, but it doesn't make it any easier." Blaine then walked over to his bag that was sitting on the couch and opened it up. "Here before I forget." He then handed Sebastian a candy cane. "Britt insisted I bring one home to you when she heard we hadn't bought any yet."
"She was already home?"
"Yea, Lexi let her go early so Britt wasn't around when Coop had to leave. Britt figures it's because Lexi didn't want her to see her crying."
"Knowing my sister, that makes sense. I tried to convince her to come over after he leaves but she said no. She'd rather not be around anyone. Oh, I hope you don't mind but we're having dinner with her on Wednesday."
"That's no problem at all. Do you mind if I study out here?"
"I'd prefer it actually."
While putting the tree together, Sebastian couldn't help but constantly look over his shoulder as he listened to Blaine sing along with the music he had playing. He knew Blaine would much rather be helping, but the smile on his face as he studied helped Sebastian feel better. And listening to him sing was something Sebastian truly enjoyed. He must've taken longer than he realized as he'd just attached the last branch when he felt Blaine settle in behind him. "Come, dinner is here."
"Dinner?"
"Since you were so busy emptying boxes and putting the tree up, I took it upon myself and ordered pizza."
"Can we just eat here?"
"Pizza is on the coffee table along with everything else. So that's as far as you need to go." Once they made it over to the table Blaine looked at Sebastian. "What are we going to need?"
"More lights and ornaments mainly. How's the studying coming?"
"I'm almost done, just a few more pages. Do we have enough lights for the tree?"
"Depends, do you want white lights or colored?"
"I'd prefer colored."
"Then no, as she had white lights on it. But when we're done I can go buy some while you finish studying. At least we'll have a bit of a head start. Stringing lights on the tree is the worst part."
"Agreed which is why most of us stayed out of the room when my Dad did it." Blaine said with a laugh. "How much decorating is Lexi doing since they're going to be in Ohio for Christmas?"
"She said she's going to do the basics, but she's not putting up her villages. So, I'm guessing she'll decorate the foyer and probably the family room but that's about it. How excited is your Mom about having us all there?"
"She's driving my Dad crazy, at least according to him." Blaine told him before taking a bite. "But he's happy we're all going to be there as well. I personally think he's looking forward to playing Santa."
"Did my sister give them the same edict as us, to not go overboard in regards to the kids?"
"She did and they understand. But I'm sure they're still going to overdo it. Like us?"
"Probably worse, but nowhere as badly as they would have. But in a way Lexi is right, they aren't even one so there is only so much they can use. It'll be crazy though once they get older though."
By the time Sebastian returned from his outing to buy lights, Blaine was busy at work. "I guess someone finished their homework."
"I did." Blaine replied. "And it looks like you bought more than just lights."
"That is correct, but once you see what I bought you'll understand the impulse buy. I promise I won't buy anything else till we go out together."
"That's fine. So, let me see." Sebastian couldn't help but smile and handed Blaine the bag that didn't contain lights. "These are gorgeous Bas."
"I'm glad you think so, now you know why I couldn't resist." Sebastian said as Blaine held the porcelain baby grand piano ornament in his hand. "I'm partial to that one and the crystal treble clef. I felt they fit us well."
"You're right, they do." Blaine then leaned over and kissed Sebastian.
"You taste good."
"Thank Brittany. I just finished my candy cane."
"I will." Sebastian said before leaning in for another kiss. "Take another look in the bag." After handing the piano to Sebastian, Blaine did as he was asked. And after pulling out a few more boxes he found what he could only presume what Sebastian wanted him to find.
"Is this supposed to be what I think it is?"
"If you're thinking a Warbler, then yes. I thought the resemblance was uncanny. And it's only fitting we have a Warbler on our tree."
"It's perfect. That reminds me, did you bring your ornament with you?"
"I did, that is if we brought the box of Christmas stuff that was in our dorm last year."
"Then we have it. I got that box out of the closet earlier. So what do you say Bas, we start putting some lights on?"
"That's an excellent idea." When Sebastian spoke Blaine noticed a certain glimmer in his eyes.
"Bas, what are you thinking?" Blaine asked as he took ahold of Sebastian's arm.
"Impure thoughts of what I'd like to do with you beneath that tree once it's all lit. Do you have a problem with that?"
"Not at all. Guess the sooner it's finished, the sooner we can have fun."
"I like the way you think B."
"It was your idea, and I'm curious as to what you have in mind."
When Blaine met up with Jeff on Tuesday morning, Jeff noticed Blaine looked a bit more tired than usual. "Late night?"
"Yea, between homework and decorating Bas and I lost track of time."
"I see."
"What is that supposed to mean?' Blaine asked while they waited. "That's what happened."
"Oh, I'm not saying it isn't. I'm just saying knowing the two of you there was more than that."
"What are you implying?"
"Do you remember what happened when you two decorated your dorm?" When Blaine started to noticeably blush, even with the tan he had, Jeff knew he remembered. "Exactly, so I'm sure that happened again."
"Fine, it did. Now that you've successfully embarrassed me, did you have a similar moment with your little Christmas girl?"
"I did. So did Nick and Santana but not at the same time." Both of them laughed when the words came out of Jeff's mouth. "We each booked a night in the living room. At first I didn't quite understand the desire to do something like that, but it's…it's sort of special. And it's not like we'd be able to do it when we get home."
"You don't have to remind me of that. Are you looking forward to going home?"
"I am actually. I miss my family no matter how much they might annoy me at times. Plus after everything that happened with Megan I think we need to spend some time together. Nick's planning some time with Ally too."
"Does that include your girlfriends?"
"We're leaving that up to our sisters and Britt and Santana said they'd support whatever that decision is. It's not like they don't see us all the time plus they know our sisters need us."
"It must make yours and Nick's lives easier now that your sisters don't hate your girlfriends."
"Does it ever. Our parents are relieved as well since they didn't want to deal with the bickering they dealt with during the summer when we're home. So, it's worked out well for everyone. At least you and Seb don't have to worry about that stuff."
"True, we just have to worry about his Mother."