Two Steps Beyond
Part 143
Considering the earlier tension, by the time they all decided to eat dinner it was relatively quiet throughout. It was as though they were all afraid of saying something to upset the others. As Blaine and Sebastian began to do the dishes Mr. Anderson walked up behind them. "Take the SUV tonight."
"Alright, but any particular reason?" Blaine asked as Cooper spoke with Lexi and their Mom.
"Because it's going to snow again and I don't want you guys getting stuck in Lima. Plus, Cooper and I are taking my car so Lexi has theirs in case anything comes up."
"While I know this needs to be done, please try and keep Coop calm."
"I will, though it's going to be tough. He's really pissed and I completely understand why. He's feeling the way I am about what's happened to you and by part Seb. For the most part you two have been able to move on, but you've still had to deal with not knowing how he's going to behave. And because of work you have to see him, this needs to end once and for all. From what you've both said, he seems to have moved on, but he can't quite let go so hopefully I can convince him to just leave you two be. Cooper's a whole other story."
"Not that I'm an angel, be forewarned he might say some crap about me." Sebastian said to Mr. Anderson.
"He's not going to be able to change the subject on me Seb, so you're good. I know you and Blaine had a bit of a rocky road to get to where you are and that's your business, not mine. If you two have been able to get through it, who am I to judge anything that might've happened."
"This might sound odd, but could you or Coop give us a call afterwards. I'd rather not wait till tomorrow to hear the outcome." Blaine told his Dad as he loaded the last of the dishes into the dishwasher.
"We can do that. Coop asks one thing of you two though."
"What's that?" Sebastian asked.
"Have fun tonight. He knows you're both going to be thinking about it, but try not to dwell."
"We will try." Blaine replied. "Do you remember where the Hummel's live?"
"Unless they've moved, your Mom still had the address."
"No, they're still in the same place. If you want, you guys can just follow us since we have to go passed their street on our way to Santana's."
"When are you leaving because Cooper obviously wants to leave now?"
"We just need to grab our coats and we'll be good to go." Blaine replied.
"That works since you're more familiar with Lima then either Cooper or myself. Just don't dawdle."
"We won't." Once Blaine replied the two of them headed upstairs. "Is it wrong to want to be there?" Blaine asked as they walked into his room.
"Depending on the reasoning, no, because I feel the same way. Personally I'd love to see Cooper and or your Dad lay into him."
"That's how I feel as well but I know our presence will just make matters worse." Blaine said as he tossed Sebastian his coat. "At least we know Cooper will give us the full story tomorrow." By the time they came walking down the stairs, Lexi was standing at the bottom of them.
"We're in a bit of a hurry sis."
"I know, so I'll make it quick. While I know you both probably hadn't planned to let us know what happened, I'm glad it slipped. I know in my heart that you never would've done anything to jeopardize either of the kids' safety albeit what your initial instinct might be. I just want you both to know Cooper's anger is solely focused on one person and one person alone. If there is anyone he and I trust with our kids besides each other, it's you two because we know they mean the world to you as well. Don't get me wrong, I know the grandparents would do anything for them, but since you guys are almost a part of their daily lives it just means a bit more."
"We get it." Blaine said as he looked up at Sebastian. "And I'm happy to know you guys know we'd do anything to protect them. I'm just sorry they were in that situation."
"The situation wasn't brought on by either of you, remember that. Now, you better go before Cooper starts making a wear pattern on the hardwood." Lexi then came closer and gave them each a kiss. "Have fun tonight! Love you!"
Once the four of them headed out to the garage, Lexi headed for the family room where Mrs. Anderson was sitting with the kids. "Relax dear, they'll be fine."
"Which ones?" She replied as she sat down on the couch next to Mrs. Anderson. "While I've seen Cooper upset before, it's never been like this. I'm honestly afraid he's not going to be able to keep it together. All it might take to set him off again is seeing Kurt."
"That's one of the reasons his Dad went with him. If anyone understands how Cooper's feeling, it's his Dad. I can't tell you how many times I've stopped him from either going to speak with Burt or threatening to fly to New York and have words with Kurt."
"Wait, you know what's been going on?"
"More than Blaine or Seb realize. While they're both good at hiding what's going on, little things give them away."
"Like today."
"Yes, but I have a feeling Seb did that on purpose. Not so much as to upset Cooper or yourself, but to hopefully have someone put an end to what's going on. When we first found out about it, it was pretty clear they weren't going to tell you two. But I think part of that comes from them feeling guilty for putting Jocelyn and Braeden in that situation."
"That's the thing, it wasn't their fault and I told them that."
"That's just who Blaine is and from what I know, Seb is that way as well. They hate having things happen to people they love because of them."
"While I'm sure Kurt was a nice boy at one time, he's been nothing but nasty around me. Part of that probably stems from what I said to him the first time I spoke to him, but he was being so inconsiderate to Blaine I couldn't stand it anymore."
"From what Blaine told me, he was relieved you did that. Before he left for New York all he and Kurt had been doing was arguing, heck, it was all they'd been doing all summer and it was getting on my last nerve. A few days before he left, Blaine had his door open and was talking to Kurt through the computer and Kurt was yelling at him because he was choosing to spend one of his last days before leaving with the guys and not him."
"Obviously Blaine and Bas spend a lot of time together since they have lots of shared friends, but they do due things without the other. I mean, I can't see either of them ever stopping the other from doing something unless it was ridiculous."
"I've noticed that as well. While you and Cooper spend way more time with them, even Greg and I see they have a pretty balanced relationship."
As Mr. Anderson followed Blaine to Lima he kept glancing over towards the passenger's seat where Cooper sat fidgeting. "If you don't relax you're going to put a wear pattern in that seat Coop."
"Sorry Dad. I just don't want to lose my cool when I see him."
"Just remember, he might not be there. For all we know we're making this trip for no reason."
"True, but Bas did say Santana said her parents were fine if we wanted to stop by. By the way, I'm sorry for snapping at you earlier."
"It's okay, I understand. While I'll never admit this to your Mom, I was thrilled when Seb punched Kurt last Christmas. After everything I'd heard, he deserved it."
"Oh he did. The only thing that would've been better would've been if Blaine punched him." When Mr. Anderson snickered Cooper laughed. "Don't worry Dad, I won't let Mom know. While I was thrilled to hear about it, I can't believe it was Bas that did it. I always assumed if someone was to punch Kurt it would've been Blaine. But considering Kurt punch Blaine who got between the two of them, it's expected. Bas will do anything to protect Blaine."
"From what I saw that day, your brother has been using serious amounts of self-control in that regard. And it's only gotten stronger. But if what I saw in his eyes the other day was any clue that self-control is finally waning. And I know Seb feels that way, just as I know Blaine will do anything for him."
"I don't know if I told you this, but did you know Blaine finally told the guys what happened to him?"
"He did what?"
"He finally told the guys and well, the girls what happened to him, what brought him to Dalton."
"Do you know what brought on the change since he was pretty adamant about no one ever knowing?"
"Everything with Trevor. While Bas has known since before they got together, things sort of snowballed. After Trevor went after Bas some things occurred that Brittany happened to witness. Safe to say, Blaine didn't react well to what happened to Bas. So, soon after that he told Nick and Jeff. Then it wasn't long after he told everyone else in his inner circle."
"How'd they react?"
"They were all shocked. Blaine said most of the guys got angry and upset, while the girls got upset and cried that he'd been through that. None of them had a clue Blaine had been through something like that. While they all always thought Blaine was strong, knowing what he'd been through gave them a new perspective. Honestly, Blaine couldn't have asked for a better group of friends. There isn't anything those guys won't do for each other."
"I wonder why he didn't tell us."
"That would be because it's still his least favorite subject to talk about, but it's getting easier for him. Him opening up to his friends was huge for him, because I think he truly thought it would change the way they look at him."
"I can't believe I'm asking you this, I should really ask Blaine, but do you know if he ever told Kurt everything that happened?"
"He didn't. He told me the first person he ever truly opened up to about it was Bas." Before their conversation could continue, they saw an arm waving them next to them. Once Mr. Anderson was next to them, Cooper lowered his window.
"Just go left at the corner and it's the fourth house on your right." Blaine told them.
"Got it." Cooper replied. "Now go have fun."
"We will and don't forget to call us."
"We will. See you in the morning." After closing the window Cooper looked at his Dad after he pulled around Blaine. "Let's do this."
"Just remember to stay calm Coop." Cooper nodded in response as his Dad made the turn. With the short distance to travel it wasn't long till they were parked in front of the house. As they walked up to the house, Cooper couldn't stop glancing over at his Dad. "What is it?"
"Do you know what you're going to say?"
"I know what I want to talk about; I just don't know how everything is going to go." When they walked up to the door Mr. Anderson took a deep breath before ringing the bell. It wasn't long till the door opened and they saw Finn standing in front of them.
"Uh, hi." Finn said, slightly shocked by who he saw in front of him. While he had met Cooper once before, he could only assume that it was Mr. Anderson with him. "Please, come in." Once inside the house, Cooper introduced his Dad to Finn. "I'm guessing you're here to see Burt."
"Actually, we'd like to see him as well as Kurt." Mr. Anderson said. "Are they here?"
"Yea, wait right here. I'll go get them." After leaving Cooper and Mr. Anderson in the entryway, Finn headed for the family room. "Burt, Cooper and Mr. Anderson are here. They'd like to talk to you and Kurt. Do you want me to go get him?"
"No, I'll get him. Weren't you going to a party?"
"I was, but I can stick around if you want."
"That won't be necessary. Go have fun." Once Finn walked out of the room, Burt got up from his seat and motioned for Carole to come into the room. "Would you go and get Kurt, I don't want to keep our guests waiting."
"Which guests?"
"Gregory and Cooper." Carole nodded as Burt headed for the entryway. As he rounded the corner he saw them both standing there talking to each other. Considering the events of the previous evening, he had a good idea what they were there about. "Gregory, Cooper, it's good to see you."
"You might think otherwise once we're done." Mr. Anderson said. "Is there somewhere we can talk?"
"Of course, follow me." The walk down the hall was quiet, not even subtle pleasantries were exchanged. When they walked into the family room Kurt's eyes grew wide. "Please, make yourselves comfortable. Would you like anything to drink?"
"No thank you." Mr. Anderson replied. "I'm sure you know why Cooper and I are here so we might as well get right to it."
"I want you both to know how sorry I am for what happened at the Winter Concert." Burt said. "Kurt assured me it would never happen again." Try as he might, Cooper couldn't repress his snicker.
"I'm sorry Mr. Hummel, but that is something I've heard too many times to believe." Cooper said.
"I mean it Cooper. I'm sorry. I had no right to touch Blaine."
"Do you realize what could've happened when you touched him?"
"I didn't think it was a big deal."
"Wasn't a big deal? Blaine could've turned to hit you because you grabbed him which could've meant him dropping my son!" Mr. Anderson put a hand on Cooper's leg to rein him back as his voice got louder. "While Blaine would never intentionally do anything to hurt my son, his nephew, one can't always control their instincts."
"As I said, I'm sorry."
"You wouldn't have to say sorry if you could just leave Blaine and Bas alone."
"He was only trying to apologize that evening Cooper." Burt told him. "He didn't realize things would go that way."
"From what I know Burt, it was expected." Gregory said. "Blaine and Sebastian have made it crystal clear they want nothing to do with him. They've also told him, staying away from them would do more than any apology ever could."
"I only wanted to clear the air since we have to see each other. I've finally accepted that Blaine and Sebastian are happy together and I only wanted them to know that."
"Then leave them alone." Cooper told him. "And just because you see each other at shoots, doesn't mean you have to speak to each other. Remember, I'm not oblivious to what goes on during them. And if they truly need to be spoken to, Tasha does it herself. You honestly have no reason to communicate with them."
"Don't you think that's a bit harsh Cooper? They should be able to have simple conversations." Burt said.
"No, it's not harsh at all considering all the drama Kurt brings to them. It's going to take quite a bit of time for Blaine and Bas to risk talking to him because they were burned when they tried to give him a chance. That's not even getting into Kurt sticking his nose into something that doesn't concern him whatsoever."
"Kurt, what is Cooper talking about?" Burt asked as he turned to look at Kurt.
"I don't know."
"Please." Cooper said as sarcastically as possible. "You know exactly what I'm talking about."
"I was only concerned."
"How convenient that you now remember? What's going on in Blaine's life is none of your business!"
"Yet Sebastian and Hunter can know."
"Bas is his boyfriend, so yes, he knows. As for Hunter, he knows as well since he's Blaine's friend, something you are not. For your information, all of Blaine's close friends know what's going on in his life." Mr. Anderson could see Cooper's temper was starting to flair again so he looked at Cooper who took a deep breath.
"Kurt, do you understand what Cooper is trying to say?" Gregory said as calmly as possible.
"That anything to do with Blaine is no longer my business."
"Essentially, you gave up the right to know about Blaine's life when you couldn't respect boundaries. Blaine and Sebastian tried to be polite but you couldn't accept what they gave you. And the incident Cooper was speaking about is none of your business. I'm not trying to be rude Burt, but…"
"It's alright Gregory, I understand. Obviously something is going on that is a private matter. Kurt, you need to respect the fact that whatever is going on is private. Trying to involve yourself in something that doesn't concern you is rude."
"Please, Blaine is dating the epitome of rude. Mr. Anderson, do you even…"
"We're not here to discuss Blaine and Sebastian's relationship Kurt. And I will not tolerate you speaking badly about Sebastian to me and Cooper. Here I thought Sebastian was being paranoid, but you did just as he predicted. He knew you'd start badmouthing him. While I can understand that you don't like him, it doesn't give you the right to speak ill about him to others that don't' share your feelings."
"I'm sorry, it's just…"
"What did Mr. Anderson just say Kurt, he doesn't want to hear it so please just stop."
"For your information Kurt, they don't ever talk about you unless someone else brings you up. Or of course, they're worried about running into you." Cooper told him. "You're not even on their radar anymore and they'd prefer it if they were no longer on yours."
"Now, before we get even further off track I need to say this." Mr. Anderson. "While I'm more inclined to believe you've come to accept Blaine and Sebastian being together and only want to apologize for what's occurred, I need to ask you to just leave them alone. I will pass on to them what you've told us and hopefully that'll be enough for you. If you ever truly cared about my son, you'll leave him and Sebastian alone. For the most part, I've stayed out of this, but that's over with."
Meanwhile at Santana's house everyone was having quite a bit of fun. Since he had to make a couple of stops before arriving Finn was one of the last ones to arrive. When he walked into the house he was quickly greeted by Tina who was sitting in the living room talking with Beat, Thad, Mike, Quinn, and Dave. "We weren't sure if you were going to come."
"I almost didn't at the last minute." Finn said as he took his coat off.
"Why is that?" Quinn asked from her spot on the couch.
"Because just as I was about to leave Cooper and Mr. Anderson showed up at our house and it was clear neither of them were happy."
"Did you get to see Kurt's reaction to seeing them?" Thad asked with quite a grin.
"No, I left before they all saw each other. Now, if you guys don't mind, I'm going to go find Santana."
"Her and Nick should be right up. They went down to the basement a few minutes ago to get some more drinks. Everyone else is in the family room and kitchen." Tina said.
"Why aren't you guys in there?"
"Everyone else is in rare form so it's hard to have an actual conversation." Dave replied. "But we'll be back there soon." After Finn headed towards the kitchen Tina sat back down as all the guys began to laugh loudly. "Do you think we have time to make it to the house and see the show?"
"Do you really think Mr. A is going to let Cooper snap?" Thad asked.
"It would be nice." Beat replied. "From what Blaine and Seb said Cooper was livid after he heard what happened."
"Do you really blame him?" Quinn asked. "With everything Blaine's been through it's not out of the realm of reason to think he might react first ask questions later."
"At least we know he was pretty sure Kurt was the one that grabbed him considering the situation. Otherwise, who knows?" Thad said. "But after all the times I've seen Blaine box with Dave as well as Hunter, I'd never want to be on the receiving end of one of his punches."
When Finn walked towards the kitchen he could already hear everyone and realized just how true Dave's words were. "Well, nice of you to finally make it." Artie said. "We were considering sending out a search party."
"But then decided it was too cold." Puck said causing everyone to laugh. "What's keeping Lopez and Duval?"
"Oh leave them." Rachel said. "They're entitled to some privacy. So, what kept you?" Rachel asked as she looked at Finn. But once Blaine and Sebastian started to laugh her attention went to them. "Guys?"
"Cooper decided to have some words with Kurt. But my Dad wouldn't let him go by himself."
"Do tell." Rachel said with a big smile as Brody tightened his hold around her waist.
"There is nothing to tell." Finn replied as Brittany handing him a drink from the punch bowl, not really caring what was in it. "When I left Cooper and Mr. Anderson were still in the entryway. How angry is Cooper?"
"Let's just say Kurt's lucky Blaine and his Dad were able to stop him from leaving when he originally wanted to." Sebastian replied.
"Was it really that bad?" Jeff asked.
"Cooper was shaking he was so pissed. God forbid something actually happened."
"I've never seen him like that." Blaine added. "Hell, I don't think anyone in the house had ever seen him like that."
"Seen who like what?" Nick asked as he and Santana walked back in the kitchen.
"Cooper pissed." Sebastian replied.
"Safe to say you told him what happened." Santana said and they both nodded. "He deserved to know."
"We know, but it doesn't make it easier to handle the reaction. While my sister was pissed she handled it better. It was as though this pushed Cooper fully over the edge."
"If having to face your Dad and Cooper doesn't get through to him, nothing ever will." Nick said as the others joined them.