Two Steps Beyond
Part 135
While they were finishing dinner Blaine's parents came walking into the kitchen and decided to take Jocelyn and Braeden with them so the boys could finish up. Once they were out of the room Blaine looked over at Sebastian. "I told you, go if you want to." Sebastian said before taking another bite. "I'll be fine here with Jocelyn and Braeden."
"Bas."
"I know you want me to go with, but going there with the chance of running into Hummel is not what I want to do our first night here. I've got enough to worry about in regards to my Mother than adding him to the list. Unlike seeing my Mother, I can control whether or not to see Hummel."
"I know, but this might be my only chance to see everyone while we're home and I want you with me." Sebastian took a deep breath before looking over at Blaine who was looking at him intently. With a frustrated look in his eyes, Sebastian got up from the table and walked to the sink without saying another word. While he knew he was being childish considering this actually meant something to Blaine, he just really didn't want to risk running into Kurt. After rinsing his plate and putting it in the dishwasher Sebastian glanced over at Blaine one last time before walking out of the kitchen. "Bas!" Blaine called out after him before pushing his plate away from him and running his fingers through his hair.
Blaine knew he was asking Sebastian to do something he truly didn't wanted to do, but he didn't realize just how badly he didn't want to go. While Sebastian had gotten along with his friends from McKinley, Blaine knew the chances of running into Kurt were far outweighing everything else. He was still sitting at the table when his Dad came walking in. "Hey." Blaine mumbled something in response which soon brought his Dad to the table to sit down. "What's going on?" Mr. Anderson then looked around the kitchen. "Where's Seb?"
"I think he's in my room."
"Everything okay?"
"I think so, it's just I…I asked him to do something that he doesn't want to do. And I can tell it's frustrating him saying no to something I want to do."
"Why don't you tell me what you asked him and maybe, just maybe your old man can help you figure it out?" As Blaine explained the situation to his Dad he could see his Dad trying to figure out what to say to him as he spoke. Once Blaine was done, Mr. Anderson turned his chair so he was now facing Blaine directly. "Care to tell me why it's so important he goes with you because from what you just told me he doesn't have a problem with you going, he just doesn't want to go. And considering everything that's happened, I certainly don't blame him. It wouldn't be the first time you guys have done things on your own."
"You're right, it wouldn't be the first time we've gone and done something alone because it doesn't interest the other. It's just, I want him with me. I know that sounds selfish, but I do. Is it really wrong to want to see my friends and have Bas with me?"
"No, it's not wrong, but you've got to remember Seb's feelings on this matter aren't based off of one simple moment."
"I know that. And if this didn't mean something to me I never would've asked."
"I'm sure he knows that as well Blaine. And while I'm sure having a disagreement with him right after you guys got here wasn't in the plan but this is simple and I don't doubt you two can come to some sort of compromise."
"True, since we compromise a lot. It's just; this time around there seems to be no middle ground to work with."
"Blaine, if you want to go see your friends go since you said Seb doesn't have a problem with it. But if you truly don't want to go without him then you're leaving it in Seb's hands. So, you should probably head upstairs to talk to him because if you're going to a concert at McKinley you're going to need to leave soon."
"Thanks Dad."
"I didn't do anything Blaine but listen. I have a feeling you and Seb will figure this out relatively easily. Now go, I'll finish cleaning up."
"But…"
"Go."
When Blaine walked up the stairs, he could tell that Sebastian was in his room since he could hear music coming from within the room. After a brief knock on the door, Blaine opened it and was a bit surprised to find it empty. But once he listened a bit closer, he realized the shower was running. Jazz playing, water running, yep, Sebastian was trying to relax. Blaine had just gotten undressed to join Sebastian when he heard the water turn off. It wasn't long after that Sebastian came walking back into the room with a towel wrapped around his waist.
"If I knew you were joining me I would've lingered a bit longer." Sebastian said as he walked up to Blaine and gave him a kiss. "But it's probably better this way since we don't have much time."
"What do you mean?" Blaine asked as Sebastian walked over towards the closet.
"We're going to the bloody concert; now get that cute ass of yours in the shower before I regret changing my mind."
"Bas."
"Please go B." Blaine just nodded, and did as Sebastian asked knowing they had more than enough time to talk on the drive. By the time he came out of the bathroom Sebastian was already dressed. The only thing he needed to do was fix his hair. "You're going to need to make this up to me when we get home."
"That can be arranged." Blaine said while getting his clothes out. "May I ask what brought on this on?"
"It's the holidays and I refuse to be the selfish bastard everyone sees me as."
"People don't see you like that."
"B, everyone except for our immediate group of friends does. If you didn't go tonight, it wouldn't take people long to figure out it was because I didn't want to go."
"I don't want you doing this just for me Bas."
"Well, I am and you're going to have to deal with it. By the way, your Mom got the twins ready for us."
"I love you Bas."
"I love you too which is why I'm doing this. So, can we please not talk about it anymore, at least right now?" Blaine nodded his head before Sebastian walked into the bathroom. Judging from the way he was carrying himself Blaine could tell this truly was something Sebastian didn't want to do. Once Sebastian came out of the bathroom Blaine was dressed and ready to go. "Looking good killer."
"You look amazing Bas." The smirk that came to Sebastian's face was reminiscent of the one he wore quite a bit when they were at Dalton. Knowing Sebastian the way he did, Blaine knew he'd made a point of looking extra good that night. "What do you say we get out of here?"
"If that means we get home sooner, then yes." Sebastian said as he walked towards him. "I'm sorry for being an ass."
"You weren't being an ass Bas. I know this isn't something you want to do so it means a lot to me that we are."
"Just promise me one thing B."
"Anything."
"That we don't have to stick around afterwards much longer than necessary."
"Deal." When they came downstairs his parents had Jocelyn and Braeden all ready to go. "They look great Mom." Blaine told her.
"It's easy to do with the clothes Lexi packed for them. Now you guys have fun and we'll see you in the morning." Mrs. Anderson then gave each of the boys a hug and kiss before they put the coats on the kids. Once they walked out of the house Mrs. Anderson looked at her husband. "They solved that little dilemma rather quickly."
"That's because it was so minor. Neither of them let this fester which is why matters are easy to resolve. Plus, it's pretty clear there isn't much they wouldn't do for the other. And in this case, Seb is truly doing something he doesn't want to do to make our son happy."
"Now let's hope the evening is relatively quiet for them."
During the drive to Lima, Sebastian reached over and took ahold of Blaine's hand and gave it a reassuring squeeze. "This really means a lot to me Bas."
"I know which is why I changed my mind."
"I can still tell it's something you don't want to do."
"By the time we get there I should be good, promise. Plus I'll have Brody and Jeff to hang with while you catch up."
"Shit, we need to tell Britt we're going since Jeff wouldn't go without us." Blaine went to pull his hand away from Sebastian when he felt another squeeze."
"It's already been taken care of. I called Jeff as soon as I made my decision. Needless to say he was shocked."
"I can only imagine."
When they pulled into the McKinley parking lot Sebastian looked around a bit before spotting Jeff's car and proceeding to park next to it. Not surprisingly, he and Brittany were sitting in the car waiting their arrival. After Blaine and Sebastian got out, Brittany and Jeff did the same while Blaine and Sebastian got the kids. "I didn't know you'd be bringing them." Brittany said with a big smile.
"My parents are going to a party tonight so either they came with or we didn't come." Blaine said as he held Braeden close. "Ready to do this?" Sebastian nodded and took Blaine's free hand in his and headed for the school. Once they were inside, Jeff and Brittany helped them get the kids coats off and into the bag before they all took their own coats off as well.
"B, this might not be a good idea."
"Why?"
"Jocelyn just scrunched up her nose."
"And?"
"Public schools have a stench and their innocent noses aren't used to it." Blaine truly tried, but it was impossible to fight the smile that crept to his face. Only Sebastian would take a simple act and turn it into something it wasn't. "Keep an eye on Braeden; I'm sure he'll do it too."
"Okay Bas." Blaine then slipped his hand back into Sebastian's as they walked towards the theater. When they rounded the corner Sebastian instantly spotted Brody who stuck out with the way he was dressed. "Did you call Rachel or Brody?"
"No, I felt we'd surprise them since they'd be here regardless unlike Britt and Jeff." It became pretty clear they'd been spotted when they all saw a smile creep to Brody's face.
"What is it Brody?" Tina asked upon spotting the change in his demeanor. He just nodded in the direction he was looking and soon everyone turned. "They came!" Tina was so shocked that she stood her ground with the others as Rachel and Brody headed towards them.
"I honestly didn't think you'd come." Rachel said as she gave them each a hug.
"We almost didn't." Blaine said before glancing up at Sebastian and smiling. "Any signs of you know who?"
"Nope." She replied before giving Jeff and Brittany each a hug as well. "Now come, everyone wants to say hi." As they walked towards the others Blaine and Sebastian both noticed the strange looks they were receiving.
"And who are these cuties you have with you?" Tina asked.
"They are our niece and nephew." Blaine replied. "Jocelyn and Braeden."
"Blaine, did you put the bow-tie on him?"
"No, my Mom did." Blaine said with a shy smile. "She got them ready while Bas and I got ready."
"I think he looks adorable." Sebastian replied. "All the Anderson men look good in bowties."
"Do they now?" Tina asked.
"Yep. We all know B looks amazing in one. Cooper looks good in one as our last photo spread proves. Mr. Anderson looked great in his this evening and well, little Braeden rounds things out." Once Sebastian finished speaking Blaine leaned up and gave him a kiss on the cheek.
"Well, if it isn't part of the New York crew." They all looked back over their shoulder and spotted Mike walking towards them. "Long time no see guys!" After exchanging hellos Mike looked at Blaine and Sebastian. "Did I miss something along the way?" He asked with a smile.
"No, this is our niece and nephew." Blaine told him.
"Okay, just checking. And let me tell you, you guys have made me quite the popular guy."
"And how is that?" Sebastian asked.
"Most of the girls and some of the guys I go to school with freaked when I said I knew the guys in your photo shoot. Though, who was the new addition this time around?"
"That's Hunter." Brittany replied
"I'm guessing that means he's a friend of yours since Britt knows him." Tina said.
"He is a friend of all of us actually." Sebastian replied. "We all hang out quite a bit."
They were all still talking when everyone else arrived. "Looks like everyone that's supposed to be here is here now." Rachel said.
"Where's Santana?" Puck asked.
"She's in LA." Brittany replied.
"So she's not coming home for Christmas?"
"No, she'll be here on Saturday. She's working."
"Working?"
"She has an internship with a PR firm." Jeff told them.
"Do you guys know what she's working on?" Sam asked.
"She's working Cooper's premiere." Blaine replied. "Come to think of it, it should be starting soon."
"Isn't it a little soon for that?" Mercedes asked.
"She's not going at it alone." Sebastian stated. "Cooper's actual publicist is there, Santana is there for the learning experience. One needs to get their feet wet sooner rather than later. And Santana has proven that now is a good time for her."
"Wow, sounds as though she's found her calling."
"She has." Just as Sebastian replied Artie came out into the hallway.
"Looks like I was missing out on the fun."
"Nothing too exciting happened." Sam told him. "Just doing a bit of catching up."
"Well, you guys should all go find a seat since the show will be starting soon." Before they all started to walk away, Artie approached Blaine, Sebastian, Brittany, and Jeff. "I'm really glad you guys came."
"We came to support you and Tina." Blaine replied. "If it wasn't for the two of you helping to produce this, we wouldn't be here." Artie and Tina both smiled before heading towards the theater. "Alright, hopefully it's time to get entertained." Jeff cracked a half-smile and he and Brittany headed off as Sebastian took ahold of Blaine's hand. "Thank you Bas."
"You're welcome. Seeing the looks on their faces I can see how much it meant to them that everyone was here." He then leaned down and gave Blaine a kiss before they headed for the theater as well. They were just about to enter the theater when Sebastian tightened his hold on Blaine's hand. He looked up at Sebastian who seemed to tense up before following his gaze. And there talking with Mr. Schuester was, Burt, Carole, and Kurt.
"Let's get inside."
Once they reached their seats, Sebastian asked Jeff and Brittany if they wouldn't mind taking the aisle. While Sebastian knew he and Blaine should be sitting near the aisle because of Jocelyn and Braeden, he'd much rather they be sitting with Jeff and Brittany on one side of them and Brody and Rachel on the other. They'd just gotten situated when Jeff glanced across Brittany to look at Sebastian who simply nodded in response. "Just concentrate on Blaine."
"I plan on it." Sebastian then turned his attention to Jocelyn who was looking all around her. It was pretty clear she was going to be entertained since Brittany was sitting next to them. With Brittany's attention on Jocelyn, Sebastian turned his attention to Blaine who was talking with Brody while Rachel was playing with Braeden. It was pretty clear both of them were slightly pre-occupied now that they knew Kurt was in house
As the house lights began to dim, Blaine and Sebastian situated the kids before leaning in to give each other a kiss. Much to their surprise, Artie appeared on the stage to present the show and the applause after he spoke showed he had more than a few friends in the house. The show was about halfway over when Jocelyn began to get fussy so instead of interrupting everyone around them, Sebastian decided to take her out into the hall. "Do you want me to come with?"
"It's okay." Sebastian told Blaine before giving him a kiss on the cheek. "I'll come back once she's settled down." Blaine nodded and soon Sebastian was up and making his way out of the theater with Jocelyn.
"Do you want me to go with him?" Jeff asked once Sebastian was gone.
"He should be okay, but keep an eye out for Kurt."
After they exited the theater, Sebastian checked all the possible reasons she could be fussy before realizing she was probably just tired. "I know sweetheart, they aren't quite the same smooth voices you're used to, are they?" He said as he began to walk the hall with her. "Just think, tomorrow night you'll get to hear those pretty Warbler harmonies you love." When she began to clap her hands, Sebastian knew it was just because he was talking to her, though he couldn't help but think she understood.
The fact that she got fussy was honestly a godsend for him because he was beginning to get a headache. And if the look on Blaine's face was anything to go by, he was in a similar boat yet he was too polite to get up and leave. "Do you want your Uncle Seb to sing to you?" Jocelyn just looked up at him with eyes that Sebastian knew were going to be the death of him. "You learned that from your Uncle Blaine didn't you sweetheart?" Shortly after those words were spoken he began to sing softly to her. He'd just rounded the corner when he stopped in his tracks.
"Sebastian."
"Mr. Hummel."
"She's gotten bigger since the last time I saw her."
"She has. How are you?"
"Good, yourself?"
"Fine." Sebastian replied while adjusting Jocelyn in his arms.
"Must say, you're one of the last people I expected to see here."
"It was important to Blaine to come and support his friends so here we are."
"I'm guessing by your response you don't want to be."
"I have no reason to be here. This wasn't ever my school. As I said, I'm here because it was important to Blaine."
"And your niece?"
"She and our nephew are with us since Mr. and Mrs. Anderson are at a party while Cooper and Lexi are at his premiere."
"Never took you as the type to babysit."
"It's not babysitting when it's family."
"Guess the concert wasn't to your liking?"
"No, Jocelyn was getting fussy so I felt it best to bring her out into the hall rather than disturb those around us. What are you doing out here?"
"I needed to return a phone call. Are you going back in?"
"Probably not since I'm sure it's almost over and she's happy where we are."
"Dad, the New Directions are…Sebastian."
"Kurt." His name barely left Sebastian's lips when Brody and Jeff came bounding around the corner.
"What were you trying to tell me Kurt?" Mr. Hummel asked as Sebastian and Kurt just stared at each other.
"The New Directions are about to go on and I thought you'd like to know."
"Thank you, let's head back then. Sebastian."
"Mr. Hummel." Burt then put his arm around Kurt's shoulders and guided him back towards the theater. "What are you two doing here?" Sebastian asked once Kurt and Mr. Hummel were out of view.
"Once we saw Kurt leave we left as well." Jeff told him.
"What about B?"
"He's still inside." Brody told him. "He felt it best not to bring Braeden into the unknown. Is everything okay?"
"Yes, but I'm not going back in. Jocelyn is happy out here, plus my ears could use a break."
"Tell me about it." Jeff replied. "I'm pretty sure everyone else wants to leave as well. This is one time music to our ears doesn't fit. You missed one girl that sounded like a chicken being strangled."
"Sorry we missed that." Sebastian said before kissing the top of Jocelyn's head. "It seems you saved me and you from some horrendous singing Jocelyn. How's Braeden?"
"Sleeping which is another reason Blaine didn't come." Brody replied. "Please tell me the show at Dalton will be better."
"It will be." Jeff told him. "And from the sneak peek Megan sent me the girls actually sound good as well."
"Is that rare?"
"Yes." Sebastian and Jeff both replied which caused Brody to laugh. The three of them continued to talk since none of them were interested in going back inside. By the time the others came back out into the hallway when the concert was over it was pretty clear that at least Blaine, Brittany, and Rachel all just wanted to go home.
"Everything okay?" Blaine asked as he held a still sleeping Braeden in his arms.
"Everything is fine, though I appreciate you sending the cavalry." Sebastian replied before leaning over and giving Blaine a kiss. "How long has he been out?"
"He fell asleep shortly after you left. What about Jocelyn?"
"About ten minutes ago. How was the rest of the concert?"
"You didn't miss anything important." Rachel replied as Brody wrapped an arm around her. "Though, I've got to give Tina and Artie credit for what they did considering what they were working with."
"How were the New Directions?" Sebastian asked.
"They were good." Brittany replied. "But I'd much rather listen to the Warblers."
"Well, you'll get to do that tomorrow night." Jeff told her. "And Logan and Jacob said they have quite the show put together so you shouldn't be disappointed." Brittany smiled and gave Jeff a kiss.
"What now?" Brody asked.
"Bas and I are going to say our goodbyes and then get heading home so we can put these two to bed. Remember, try and get to Dalton early so you can check out all the booths."
"That's right, this isn't just a concert." Rachel said. "When does everything start?"
"Noon for alumni and one for the general public."
"When are you guys going to be there?" Brody asked.
"Around eleven since our presence has been requested." Sebastian replied. "Logan and Jacob have some stuff they want to show all the Warbler alumni."
"Alright, since you guys will already be there we'll text someone once we arrive."
"If we don't get back to you just head for the Warbler common room." Jeff told them as Rachel and Brittany helped Blaine and Sebastian put coats on Jocelyn and Braeden.
"You guys heading out already?" Artie asked as everyone approached.
"We are." Blaine replied. "Need to get the little ones home and into bed. You guys did a good job." Artie and Tina just looked at each other and laughed. "What?"
"You don't need to say that Blaine, it was bad and we know it. The scary thing being it was worse before Tina and I agreed to come and help."
"The New Directions weren't that bad."
"They weren't that good either." Tina added. "Are you guys going to get to hear the Warblers while you're home?"
"Tomorrow night actually." Sebastian replied. "B."
"Sorry guys, Bas is right, we really need to get going. Last thing we want is these two waking up."
"Understandable." Artie told them. "Thanks again for coming."
"You're welcome." Blaine and Sebastian then proceeded to give Rachel and Brittany each a kiss goodbye before heading towards the doors.
"Are the rest of you going or are you willing to go out and grab a bite to eat?" Jeff and Brody looked at each other before looking at Brittany and Rachel.
"Jeff?"
"It's up to you."
"Jeff." Brittany said as she took ahold of his hand before dragging him down the hall.
"What's going on?" Mike asked. Brody's eyes followed Brittany and Jeff and soon he took ahold of Rachel's hand and went after them. "Guys?" Mike and the others soon scanned the crowd and realized what was going on. "Should we go after them?"
"No." Quinn told him.
"Why?"
"There is more going on than any of us know." Tina answered
"How so?" Mercedes asked.
"When I spoke to Rachel, Santana, and Brittany over Thanksgiving break they were pretty adamant about not wanting to see Kurt."
"Quinn?"
"That's up to them to tell you. Just know they have good reasons."