Two Steps Beyond

Part 154

Once they finally headed to Times Square, it was already a bit crazy considering there were still hours to go. But the concert stage was all set and reporters and crews were everywhere. With as crowded as it was, they were all rather happy to be in such a big group as it allowed them to have some space for themselves. "This is crazy!" Brittany said as she leaned back against Jeff who was holding her. "But in a good way."

"Agreed." Blaine said with a smile. "And while it's a bit cold out, it's nothing like last year."

"True, but there is still snow in the forecast." Wes said.

"When has snow ever really stopped us?" Thad said.

"He's got a point." Jeff replied just as Santana took another picture. "You keep taking pictures like that your phone is going to die."

"The advantages of having us all together." She replied.

"She's got a point." Sebastian said. "We know there is no chance that all of our phones will be dead by the end of the night. Now Miss Fabray, who will you be kissing at midnight?"

"Isn't that a bit personal Seb?"

"Nope, there are a few single guys in our midst and you're the only single lady."

"Guess I've got lots of choices."

"And none of them are bad." Hailey said while the other girls agreed. "If I was you, I'd kiss them all."

"Would you now?" Wes said.

"Absolutely!"

As they listened to the concerts and talked, time seemed to go by much quicker than any of them had anticipated. "So you all know, we suck." Santana said as she made her way into to the circle after making her way back from the bathroom.

"Do we now?" Blaine asked with a quizzical smile that made Santana laugh.

"Cute Blainers! But that's according to Tina who saw Britt's latest update. We. All. Suck!"

"While that could be put into question, precisely why do we suck?" Sebastian asked as he pulled Blaine closer as the wind had picked up.

"Because we're here Sebby! Everyone in Ohio is super jealous."

"They're right. No one can believe we're all here except for Artie. He said he would've been shocked if we weren't here." Quinn said.

"Should I even ask what they are all doing?" Nick asked.

"We didn't ask." Rachel replied. "But there is only so much one can do in Lima."

"Ain't that truth." Santana said before turning to kiss Nick.

"Looks like someone is getting an early start." Dave said with a laugh but the only response he got was getting flicked off from both Nick and Santana who continued to kiss. "In unison, I'm impressed." While Dave spoke, Rachel snapped a picture of the two who seemed oblivious to those around.

"Good thing we're all so close." Brody said. "If others saw them they might be jealous."

"They should be." Nick said quickly before going back to kiss Santana again.

"No one can say B and I are the worst anymore." Sebastian said proudly before giving Blaine a kiss. "It is clear showing affection isn't an issue for any of us."

"That could be debatable." David said.

"Really, because Jeff is currently kissing Britt. Brody is kissing Rachel and…well, you get my point." Blaine told him and David soon looked around and saw he was right.

"I think it's safe to say, spending a week with the families caused some pent up frustrations."

"I'd say that's an accurate assessment." Thad added. "Sometimes it's safe to be away from each other."

"You would view it that way." Jeff told him. "Yet, we still had a warm body to curl up next to at night."

"So I heard, Lord Tubbington is quite the cuddler."

"You're an ass."

"I learned from the best."

"That you did." Sebastian replied before Thad had a chance to react. Blaine just smiled and shook his head after looking back at Sebastian who had a typical smirk on his face. Realizing Sebastian was in a feisty mood Thad just smiled before looking at Jeff.

"Now, how'd your sisters handle having the two of you around?"

"Really well actually." Jeff replied. "Carly liked having the two of us to herself for a couple of days before Megan came home. So, once Megan came home we got to spend some time with her without spreading ourselves too thin and still having some time to ourselves. Were all of the Harwood boys home this holiday?"

"We were all home after the holiday. While our parents would've loved to have us all there for it, they were happy Donovan came home for a few days. Plus it helped he brought Cassie home with him."

"And what does Spencer think of Cassie?"

"He can't figure out what she sees in him." Thad told them. "He even asked Hunter if there was something he didn't know about her."

"That's ballsy." Beat said.

"I told him the same thing." Hunter chimed in. "But once he realized Cassie is who you see, he dropped it. Thad said he only said it because he was jealous."

"He was, I know you saw him making eyes at her over dinner the one night. He was pretty bad about hiding it."

"I try to remain ignorant to guys checking out my sisters. But if he's attracted to Cass, I've got another sister that is more his age but there is one problem he'd have to contend with."

"What would that be?" Trent asked.

"She's complete bitch."

"Are you sure you're not just saying that?"

"According to Donovan, he's not." Thad said. "She's got a serious bitch complex and from meeting the family he has no clue where she got it."

"It's natural." Hunter said. "She feels unappreciated. Just think, he got to see her when she was behaving for the most part. He should be around when we see each other more often. There is a good reason we live on two separate coasts. It makes for a much happier family."

The closer it got to midnight the conversations began to dwindle and they all just took in the atmosphere. To say the night was electric would be a great understatement. While it could seem cliché, it was definitely something to experience. As the clock began to dwindle the girls began handing out all the goodies they had bought and the guys didn't hesitate to put them on. Once everything was handed out the girls began snapping pictures once more. Considering they'd been taking pictures since they'd arrived there was going to be no shortage of pictures documenting this moment.

Once the New Year rang in, hugs and kisses were shared before they joined the crowd in singing Auld Lang Syne. They were all so caught up in the moment and the confetti falling from the sky it was easy to miss that fact that it had begun to snow. It wasn't till people started to disperse did anyone take note. "What do we say we take this night indoors?" Blaine said as they all began to walk.

"Do you mind if we walk a bit?" Brittany asked. "It's so pretty out."

"If people don't mind, it's not a bad idea." Sebastian said. "The subway is going to be crazy, so if we start walking by the time we catch it things should've calmed down a bit.

By the time they arrived back at Blaine and Sebastian's, everyone was ready to just sit and relax for a bit since they'd been standing for so long. The one thing they all agreed upon was that a champagne toast was a must. So with some help from some of the guys, Blaine and Sebastian poured the glasses. "How is it we have more than enough for all of us?" Trent asked.

"Lexi knows exactly how many glasses one can get out of bottle. Clearly she made sure we could all have more than one."

"And what will you do with the extra?" Dave asked.

"Either drink it straight or make mimosas." Blaine replied. "Though, I do have a couple of recipes that calls for champagne that I just might have to try."

"That's an affirmative." Sebastian replied. "The soon the better, but not tomorrow, well technically today because then you can't watch the games."

"I was thinking this weekend." Blaine said before kissing Sebastian on the cheek. "What do we say we get these out to everyone?" They all nodded before heading back out to the living room. Once the glasses were passed out it didn't take much to let Wes take the floor and lead the toast. While James and Flint were older, Wes always seemed to be able to say what everyone was thinking. So, who better to make the toast which ended up being both inspirational, yet fun?

By the time Sebastian made his way out of bed he did a double-take at the clock, because it felt as though it should've been much earlier than it was. After making sure Blaine hadn't moved, he quietly made his way out to the kitchen since he was in clear need of coffee. While making his way through the living room, he realized his memory wasn't as foggy as he thought as there were people sleeping on the couches. Once he pressed brew on the coffee maker he took a good look around the kitchen and realized why he felt the way he did, there were empty bottles everywhere.

While he took one of their larger cups out of the cabinet he turned when he swore he heard someone walk in. "Morning." He said once he spotted Quinn. "Coffee?" She just nodded before taking a seat at the table. "Not that I'm complaining, but weren't you supposed to be staying with Brody and Rachel?"

"Considering the way they were acting last night, this was safer. They didn't have to worry about what they were going to do once they got home."

"Good move. Please tell me you actually slept in a bed and not on the couch."

"I did, though it was a bit crowded."

"So you didn't sleep alone?" Sebastian asked with a cocked eyebrow.

"I didn't, though sleep was all we did and they're still asleep."

"Oh, more than one bed companion, I'm impressed Miss Fabray."

"Why thank you Mr. Smythe. Is it safe to presume Blaine is still asleep?"

"He is and will probably be that way for at least another hour or so. Did you sleep well?"

"I did actually. I can certainly see why the girls love spending time with all of you; you're fun to be around. And you might not like hearing this, but you're absolutely adorable when it comes to Brittany."

"Well, I'm glad we're fun to be around. As for being called adorable I might take offense but since you're talking about Britt, I'm not."

"You're not much different around Blaine."

"What can I say, they're both my weaknesses. They bring out my softer side." Sebastian said as he poured them each a cup. "Don't tell anyone though, or I might have to kill you and that wouldn't go over well."

"Your secret is safe with me Seb. Just like Santana's is."

"Yea, Duval has that effect on her."

"Completely, though she still has it in her like I'm sure you can still be an ass."

"With the best of them my dear. Now if you don't mind, I need to go and check on B just in case he got up."

"Don't let me stop you. I think I'm going to get back in bed as well." Quinn replied and soon Sebastian was headed back to their bedroom with coffee in hand. Once he walked into the room, he found Blaine right where he had left him so he closed the door behind him. After another sip of his coffee, Sebastian set it down on the nightstand and got back into bed. He'd just wrapped an arm around Blaine when he rolled towards him.

"I was wondering when you were going to come back."

"And here I thought you were still asleep. How you feeling?"

"Good, though I don't want to get out of bed anytime soon. We don't have to, do we?"

"Not till you want to B. Our friends are more than self-sufficient that they'll survive if we stay in bed. And the only plan for today was watching football so we're good. Go back to sleep."

The remainder of their break seemed to fly by and before they knew it they were heading back to school. This semester they were all in better shape when it came to class schedules, especially Nick who only had one night class versus the three he had previously and this one ended at a reasonable hour. With their first day back about finished Sebastian was heading towards his last class when Michael came walking up to him. "I was wondering when I'd see you." Michael said. "How was your break?" He asked as they continued to walk since they were heading in the same direction.

"It was enjoyable, yours?"

"It was good. Somehow I managed to see most of my family while still getting away to do some skiing."

"You make it sound like it almost didn't happen."

"That's because it almost didn't because of weather but our flight was able to get out. Did you and Blaine do anything exciting or did you just take it easy?"

"We just took it easy. While we were in Ohio we basically spent time with everyone."

"Family?"

"We saw them all. Both sets of B's grandparents were staying at the house as well and my parents came over."

"This might be none of my business, but how do his grandparents react to you guys because I know sometimes it can be a bit weird?"

"B's grandparents are awesome, that's really the only way to describe them. He and I are honestly treated no different than Cooper and Lexi."

"That's good to hear. On a different note, is he ready for everything coming up?"

"As ready as anyone can be, you?"

"The same. I'm just hoping I don't have to relive everything."

"Can't say I blame you there, it's not something I'd want to do." The two of them continued talking till they had to head off to class. Once Sebastian was done for the day, he head home as he had quite a bit of work to do. When he walked into the apartment it was quiet, something it hadn't been in days. After setting his bag down, he decided to pack up more of the decorations since he wasn't quite ready to get to work yet. He was just closing up one of the totes when he heard the front door close. After looking over his shoulder, he spotted Blaine walking towards him. "How was your first day back?"

"Long, but good. Yours?"

"The same. Do you have a lot to do tonight?" Blaine nodded as Sebastian got up off the floor and walked towards him. "Sounds like we're in the same boat." He then leaned in and gave him a kiss. "Are you going to start now or what's your plan?"

"I'm going to put some stuff away first like you did. I need to clear my head a bit. See anyone today?"

"Obviously I saw Hunter since we both have the same class first thing. But I also saw most of the guys but didn't really get to talk to them as we were all going in different directions. Though, I did get to see Michael before my last class."

"How is he?" Blaine asked as he went to get the other tote.

"He's good; he had a good break as well. He asked how you were doing and if you were ready for court."

"What did you tell him?"

"That you were as ready as one could be. He's basically in the same boat but he's really hoping he doesn't have to relive everything."

"For his sake, I hope he doesn't. There's really no need to. The fact that he violated the terms of his deal should be more than enough."

"It should be, but we both know that's not how the system always works."

The next couple of weeks seemed to fly by as everyone quickly got settled into their new schedules. When Blaine woke up that Monday morning, Sebastian was still asleep and a part of him was glad. He needed a bit of time to himself that morning to collect his thoughts. After spending the previous evening with family, Blaine just needed time. With a cup of coffee in hand, he looked out over the city which was still slowly waking. "How long have you been watching me?" Blaine said, not even turning around, he just knew Sebastian was there.

"Not long, I can leave you if you want?"

"No, I'm good." With those words, Sebastian walked up to him and wrapped his arms around him. "I'm nervous Bas."

"I figured as much. You were tossing and turning for most of the night."

"Sorry."

"Don't be, it's to be expected. You were playing things off too easily last night at dinner, but I know why you did it. If you hadn't, they would've been more worried than they already are."

"Exactly, and that's the last thing I needed. Trevor's lawyers are assholes that are going to try and manipulate my words."

"Just stick to the truth B and you'll be fine. Didn't you say the detective that interviewed you said he was surprised by how your statement didn't waver no matter how he worded the questions?"

"He did."

"Then you've got nothing to worry about. Just tell the truth and let the prosecutor do his. Do you want breakfast?"

"Not really."

"You need to eat something B."

"You sound like my Mom."

"What can I say, she's a smart lady. Will you at least reconsider eating something after a shower?"

"I will."

After taking a shower, the both of them started to get ready and Sebastian could tell Blaine's nerves were worse then he'd like to admit because he was having issues tying his tie. So without saying a word, Sebastian walked over towards him and did it himself. As he did it Blaine looked up at him and smiled softly, relieved as he had gotten truly frustrated with it and was about to take it off. Once that was done, the each gave the other a once over before going to grab something to eat. While he hadn't been hungry earlier when Sebastian had asked, he now was.

While they ate, quite a few texts came through from their friends, all wishing Blaine good luck and that they were thinking of him. "I think if it was possible they'd all be here." Sebastian said as he cleaned up the kitchen.

"I think you're right. How'd your Dad convince Lexi to stay home?"

"With Cooper being on set today, he felt it best she not be there as he felt she'd need him depending on how things go. Lexi loves you so hearing what happened could be difficult for her to handle and she needs to take care of Jocelyn and Braeden. It's like your Dad trying to convince your Mom not to go."

"That was pretty pointless."

"Exactly. The only reason my Dad won out is because he played the Jocelyn and Braeden card with her. And Lexi knows she can't be a mess around them if Cooper isn't home, even with the grandparents in town."

They continued their conversation as they headed for the hall to get their coats. While the parents had wanted them to ride over with them, Blaine stood his ground that he and Sebastian would meet them at the courthouse. With as anxious as Blaine was, he needed that time alone in the cab with Sebastian to try and calm himself. He knew that while his parents' intentions would've been made out of love, he knew Sebastian would just sit there and listen which was what he really needed at that moment.

During the ride over they received texts from both Jeff and Hunter to let them know that they were already there and where to find them once they arrived. Upon reading them Blaine seemed to relax a bit more and after talking with them the previous day he knew they were a bit nervous as well. Once their cab pulled up in front, Sebastian paid the driver and they headed up the stairs. With each step, Sebastian felt Blaine's grip on his hand tighten. It made him slightly sick to his stomach knowing there really wasn't anything he could do in that moment to make Blaine feel any better. They were just about to the top of the stairs when they spotted their Dads outside along with Mr. Sterling. "Morning boys." Mr. Sterling said, noticing they both seemed to be a bit tense.

"Morning." They both replied before greeting their Dads.

"Where's Mom?"

"Inside with Abigail." Mr. Anderson replied. "That's also where you'll find Jeff and Hunter. Would you all mind if I have a moment alone with Blaine?" They all shook their heads but before following the others inside Sebastian gave Blaine a quick peck on the cheek.

"I'll be waiting inside killer." That remark brought a faint smile to Blaine's face. Once they were inside Mr. Anderson stepped closer.

"Anything you want to talk about?"

"Not really. But I'll be happy the sooner this is over."