Two Steps Beyond

Part 131

Sebastian was sitting in the union studying when he quickly realized he was no longer alone at his table. Upon looking up from his book he saw Nate and Michael sitting across from him. "Afternoon." He said as he set his pen down. "What do I owe this pleasure?"

"Well, it's about tomorrow night." Michael told him. "You see, Dylan and I spoke when he came over last night and soon found out we'd both made plans for the night."

"Let me guess, you made plans with Nate here."

"He did." Nate replied.

"So, what are we going to do about this little quandary since I know Jeff replied in the affirmative as well?" Sebastian said as he leaned back in his chair.

"We had an idea and I wanted to run it by you." Michael told him and Sebastian nodded. "Instead of going out to dinner how does a dinner party sound."

"Where?"

"My place." Michael replied. "While going out to dinner was each parties original plan, with that many people it could get impersonal. So, if we're all at my place we wouldn't lose that."

"So, you want us all to come to your place for dinner then."

"Yes."

"Sounds good to me. Will Jenna be joining you?"

"That she will and Michael said there will be other girls present as well."

"There will be. Jeff is bringing Brittany and Nick will be bringing Santana with him."

"Excellent, people Jenna knows." Nate said with a smile. "She'll be relieved. You wouldn't guess it, but she can be a bit shy around people she doesn't know."

"Really, are we talking about the same girl that practically tackled Blaine when she first met him?" Sebastian said with a laugh.

"Yes, but as she said, Blaine made her feel comfortable. Seriously Seb, your boyfriend is pretty cool."

"He is, isn't he?"

"At least you don't deny it." Michael told him.

"Why would I. B is awesome and I know how lucky I am to have him in my life." Sebastian said as he reached for his cup of coffee. "And that he wants me as a part of his."

"You know I actually remember when Blaine came to New York." Nate told him. "When you and Cooper arrived that day you were in a world of your own. And correct me if I'm wrong, but you had one heck of a game that day. Someone, meaning you, was showing off."

"I did not."

"Oh yes you did. It was quite fun to watch actually. Our summer games have always been laid back but you were going all out that day. Then once the game was you and Cooper headed over towards Lexi and who I soon found out was Blaine."

"Did he have that goofy smile on his face he gets when Blaine shows up out of the blue?" Michael asked.

"Absolutely, this boy was grinning from ear to ear." Nate said while laughing. "It was during our next practice I found out who he was."

"If you're going to continue to embarrass me I'm going to have to ask you to leave so I can get back to studying." Sebastian said as he picked up his pen.

"Come on man, there is nothing wrong with the way you act when it comes to Blaine. You're in love and that's a good thing. Hell, if you ask John he's got more than enough material on me. I swear that man witnessed each part of mine and Jenna's relationship. Including the moment I realized I loved her."

"I remember that." Michael chimed in. "You looked like a deer in headlights."

"Come on, it wasn't that bad. I swear it was because of the hit I took in the game."

"Right. Don't let him fool you Seb, it was an interesting moment."

"Did he take a hit in a game that day?" Sebastian asked, no longer interested in his text book.

"He did and it was pretty bad, but that wasn't what it was. When the team doc was checking on him, in that moment, his only concern was if Jenna was alright since she was in the stands. Not if he was going to be." Michael told him.

"I know the feeling."

"You would." Nate told him. "Jenna said Blaine freaked pretty bad when you went down in our first playoff game. I'm pretty sure besides your sister; Jenna was the only one who truly understood how Blaine felt in that moment."

"Well it didn't help that you and John came by previously to warn me that someone might try and take me out."

"You're the one that shared that info with Blaine."

"Because he had a right to know. He would've been pissed at me if I knew something like that and didn't tell him. And I'd much rather get hurt during a game than have him upset with me. Just like I know you wouldn't hide something like that from Jenna."

"You're right, I wouldn't. She'd have a right to know so she could be prepared should something happen."

"Exactly which is why I told B. In separate news, Nate you no longer have to keep your mouth shut about us performing. B told Dylan yesterday."

"Very cool." Nate replied.

"I still can't believe you guys kept it from me." Michael told them.

"It wouldn't have been fair to ask you to keep something like that from Dylan." Sebastian told him. "And it's not like I sought Nate out, I told him because I needed to explain things."

"What things?" Michael asked.

"The bruises he had on one of his hips." Nate told him.

"Should I ask?"

"They were from dance rehearsal." Sebastian told him. "But without knowing what we were doing I doubted he'd accept the answer I gave him."

"He's right, I wouldn't have. I mean honestly, would you?"

"No." Sebastian replied. "I would've either assumed abuse or a kinky sex life."

"That's where my thoughts went as well."

"Nice to know we're on the same wavelength. Now, is there anything we can bring to this dinner party?" Sebastian asked.

"Dessert." Michael replied. "Anything of your choosing, though, something chocolate wouldn't be shunned."

"That's easily arranged. I hope you don't mind if it's homemade."

"That depends, can you bake?"

"Slightly, but B can really well. He's really talented. His Mom taught him, it was something they'd do together."

"Aren't you the lucky one?"

"I definitely am in more ways than one."

When Sebastian finally got home from school, Blaine was already home and was sitting in the living room studying. "How was your day?" He asked after Sebastian sat down beside him and they shared a kiss.

"Good, yours?"

"The same. Did Michael talk to you today?"

"He did, I take it Dylan spoke to you as well."

"Yes, he spoke to me and Jeff. Neither of us have a problem with the new plans, you?"

"Me either. Michael did ask us to bring dessert which I said wouldn't be a problem."

"That's easily done. Any preferences?"

"He said no, but in a round-about way he said chocolate would be preferred."

"My specialty."

"I mentioned that. Have you spoken with Coop?"

"I have. He's sorry for interrupting date night but he really wants to see us. I told him it wasn't a problem since we just planned on staying in tonight since we have plans for tomorrow."

"It works out well this way because after we get home I've got work to do."

"Same here, as you can see. Just let me finish what I'm working on and we can go."

"That works. Do you know approximately how long you'll be?"

"Maybe a half hour, why?"

"Just curious so I know what I should or shouldn't' do." Blaine smiled in response before getting back to work, during which Sebastian got comfortable on the other couch and began to study as well. It was just over a half-hour later when Blaine closed his laptop and set it on the table. "Done?"

"For now, I'm at a good stopping point. So, we can go whenever, but I don't' want to wait too long since I'm sure they'll want some time just the two of them before he goes."

"That is very true. I'll be at a good stopping point in a few minutes." Once Sebastian answered, Blaine stretched before going to turn all their lights on. After doing so, he stood over by the tree and just looked out over the city, taking in the scene below.

"It's quite a sight, isn't it?" Sebastian said as he wrapped his arms around Blaine from behind.

"It is. I've always thought the city looked beautiful lit up, but there is something about now that makes it even more so."

"Agreed. Did you hear it might snow tonight?"

"I did." Since Sebastian was leaning over Blaine's shoulder he could see a smile creep to his face as he answered. "This might sound silly, but if it's snowing when we leave Cooper and Lexi would you mind walking home."

"Not at all. If it's not too cold how about we make it scenic and walk through the park."

"Do you mean that?"

"Of course."

When they arrived at Cooper and Lexi's the atmosphere was definitely festive. With the smell of dinner permeating through the foyer the boys headed for the kitchen but were quickly stopped by Cooper walking towards them. "And where do you two think you're going?" He asked after giving them each a hug.

"To the kitchen since we assumed that's where you were." Blaine replied.

"We're actually in the family room since dinner doesn't need attention. Come!" Cooper replied before picking up his and Lexi's wine glasses and headed up the stairs. "So, what's been going on with you two?"

"School, studying, and rehearsal." Sebastian told him.

"Hope you're finding time to unwind so you don't burn out."

"We are." Blaine replied. "We're pretty good about it. And tomorrow night we're actually having dinner with friends."

"Good to hear." Cooper replied as Sebastian opened the gate in front of him so they could reach the second floor. After closing it behind them they all went to take a seat. "Look who graced us with their presence." Cooper said as he sat down next to Lexi and handed her a glass of wine.

"We're glad you two could make it."

"Of course." Sebastian said. "We're surprised you actually wanted to share some of your brief time home with us. Thought for sure…" Sebastian was stopped mid-sentence by Blaine's hand on his thigh. After exchanging a brief look, Sebastian placed his hand on top of Blaine's, squeezing it gently. "How are the premieres going?" Lexi and Cooper both laughed at the change in subject but didn't say anything else.

"They're going well. Lots of walking, talking, and smiling going on. Though, Cass did get into it with a reporter in Madrid."

"Do we even want to know what about?" Blaine asked.

"He just refused to stop asking personal questions."

"Like what?"

"Relax Blaine, he wasn't asking about that. He was asking about whether Lexi and I were considering having children or if we already have them. And that's not just something I want to talk about. Besides Lexi coming to premieres with me and well, you guys too if they're here in the city, the rest of my family is off-limits."

"That makes sense." Sebastian told him. "You're in the spotlight, not them."

"Exactly and while I know there are chances of them being photographed, I'd prefer it if they weren't. It's one of the reason why Lexi and I are happy we're here in New York. One of my co-stars lives in LA and his wife is constantly bothered while out with their kids."

"You'd think people would realize how wrong that is." Blaine said.

"One would think, but that's clearly not the case." Lexi responded. "Some have no respect for privacy what so ever.

"You don't need to remind us of that considering that time we got cornered." Blaine told her. "That was an interesting moment."

"It was, but you guys handled yourselves well." Cooper told them. "And I know we already talked about this, but are you sure you haven't changed your minds about bringing the kids home with you."

"Positive." Sebastian replied. "Just like we have no problem staying here the night before so the kids aren't thrown too far off kilter. Now, are you sure you don't mind Nick, Jeff, and Britt staying here as well."

"Positive." Lexi told him.

"Plus while they sleep while at our place, they're more likely to sleep well in their own rooms. And we'd prefer that before leaving."

"Can't say I blame you there." Cooper replied. "But so you know, they're good in the car. Any times we've taken them on road trips it's been smooth. Just remember you'll need to stop a bit more often."

"Got it." Blaine replied.

Once they finished dinner, Blaine and Sebastian only stuck around a little bit longer so Lexi and Cooper could have that last bit of time together before he had to leave again. As they walked towards the subway, they soon changed direction once it started to snow. "It's going to take a bit of getting used to, isn't it B?" Sebastian said as he took ahold of Blaine's hand as they walked.

"What?" Blaine replied.

"Being in the city during the holiday."

"Actually, I thought it might, but it's not that weird. Why, is it weird for you?"

"A little. At least the park is nearby."

"You're thinking about how Dalton would look after a snow fall, aren't you?" Sebastian just nodded. "I can see why, it did look beautiful. Well, hopefully we'll get snow while we're in Ohio as well."

"I hope so too, especially for Lexi."

"Why is that?"

"Since the kids are a bit bigger, she can't wait to play with them out in the snow."

"I've got an idea." Sebastian turned to look at Blaine and cocked his eyebrow. "It's a good idea."

"I'll be the judge of that." Blaine then playfully hit Sebastian on the arm before continuing.

"Remember how frustrated Lexi was last year that she couldn't go skating because she was pregnant." Sebastian nodded. "Why don't we all go this weekend if we don't have too much studying to do?"

"You're right, that's actually a really good idea. We should ask the Four Musketeers to join us since I know Britt mentioned going skating the last time we rehearsed. Heck, let's just ask everyone. And tomorrow at school I'll talk to Hunter."

"About?"

"To see if Cassie is in town so Lexi has someone else to talk to besides all of us. I know he mentioned her schedule but it's a bit too crazy to remember."

"Good thinking Bas." By the time they returned home that night, both had a bit of a chill, but neither regretted walking home. Or taking the scenic way through the park albeit it took them longer. After changing into comfortable clothes, Sebastian went and started a pot of coffee while Blaine got settled in the living room. When Sebastian returned with a cup for each of them Blaine was already working. Once Blaine took the cup from Sebastian he noticed Sebastian's eyes yet to leave him. "What is it?"

"That's not homework, isn't it?" Sebastian asked as he got comfortable on the other end of the couch with his laptop.

"You're right it's not. But I felt it's better to do now while I'm thinking of it."

"And what might that be?"

"Putting together a playlist for the drive home."

"B, you do realize between the two of us we've got more than enough music to listen to on the drive."

"I know we do, but we've also got company this time around. And after talking to Lexi and Coop over dinner I decided to put a kid friendly playlist together."

"What does this playlist consist of?" When Blaine didn't answer right away, Sebastian nudged Blaine with his foot. "B."

"Fine, it's a Disney playlist."

"You're kidding."

"I'm not, why?"

"I just thought you already had one of those put together." Sebastian replied with a smile which Blaine returned. "It's actually a good idea."

"I'm glad you think so. Before I forget as I've done a couple of times today, I have a question for you."

"What would that be?"

"My Mom was wondering if you had a preference as to when your parents come over."

"Whenever is fine with me."

"Bas."

"Seriously B, I don't care when they come. Note that I have one preference."

"What would that be?"

"That they aren't there first thing on Christmas morning."

"May I ask way?"

"I don't want to risk her ruining the moment."

"Understandable. But you know, to make things easier we should probably see them before Christmas."

"I know. Lexi said the same thing to me while you and Cooper were talking and doing the dishes. It seems my Dad feels the same way."

"So, what are we going to do?"

"I was thinking we could meet them out for lunch somewhere. If we're in public there is less chance for a scene. And it won't drag on for hours."

"While I understand that, can I ask you one last thing before we get to studying?"

"Sure."

"I thought you said your last conversation went well with her." Sebastian nodded. "If that's the case Bas, why are you so hesitant about spending time with her?"

"It's because I've been lured into a false sense of security too many times by her B. And right now, I'm at a good place in my head and I don't want to that ruined. Much like last year, I'm finally looking forward to things again, to enjoying the holidays. And I…I just don't want her to take that away from me."

"Well, know my parents won't let that happen Bas. I won't let that happen either. If you want I'll talk to my parents to alleviate the amount of time you have to spend with them. You've got to know if she says the slightest thing wrong, my Mom will say something."

"That's the thing B; I don't want things done around me. Obviously Lexi is dealing with this better than I am. So, since she's willing to let our parents around her kids why should I deny them of that? If I get uncomfortable I'll just go up to your room for a bit."

"But you shouldn't have too. It's the last thing I'd want. And you've got to know my grandparents are going to want to spend time with us. Especially my Grandma and Nana, you charmed both of them."

"They've got excellent taste." When a smile crept to Sebastian's face it helped Blaine relax a bit. Ever since he'd brought up the topic he could feel a change in Sebastian.

"You're right; they do since I'm rather partial to you myself."

"Only partial?"

"Alright, I'm entirely into you. Better?"

"Much." Sebastian replied but before he got to work he looked across at Blaine who was looking at him. "B."

"Yea."

"I'm entirely into you as well." Sebastian said with a wink, which brought a smile to Blaine's face. "And when we're done, I'd like to show you."

"Well then, we better not waste any more time."