Two Steps Beyond

Part 164

By the time the guys returned to New York that Sunday things were anything but calm. They still had homework to finish while also having to field calls from the rest of their friends about the videos they'd all been sent. Thankfully the calls went by relatively quickly, but it also reminded Blaine and Sebastian that they needed to remember to pack sometime that week. For something that seemed so far away at one point, they couldn't believe they were leaving for the Caymans the next weekend.

"B, how is it that each time we go on vacation it seems our newest issue comes out just prior?" Sebastian asked as he set his laptop on the coffee table, needing to rest his eyes for a bit.

"I wish I knew. Guess we just have to try and not vacation at the end of the month." Blaine replied with a laugh. "Now, are we going to spend our week in the Cayman like we did over Thanksgiving?"

"I was thinking we would, why?"

"So I know what to pack."

"That works but if we go the nudist route you won't need much."

"That's the point Bas. Also, are we going to get something for Brittany?"

"What did you have in mind?" Sebastian asked as he grabbed his laptop once more.

"I thought we could get her something more than just flowers. Like a pendant or something?"

"That's not a bad idea as I'm sure she's going to get a ton of flowers. But you're right; this moment is something that needs to be commemorated. Why don't you talk to Jeff tomorrow and see what he's doing and we'll go from there. Last thing we want to do is outshine him. If anything, maybe we can get her something that will compliment whatever Jeff got her."

The next morning while Blaine waited for Jeff to meet him, he began scrolling through numerous jewelry sites to see if anything sparked his interest. When Jeff finally arrived he seemed a bit more stressed than usual for a Monday morning. "Should I even ask?" Blaine said as they waited for the subway.

"I ordered something for Brittany that has yet to be finished and I have no clue what I'm going to do if it isn't ready by Thursday.

"Well, that answers one of the questions I had for you this morning."

"What would that have been?" Jeff asked as they stepped onto the subway car.

"If you were getting Brittany something special for her big moment."

"I have if it gets finished. Otherwise I need to go and get something else. Why do you ask?"

"Bas and I wanted to get her something special to commemorate this moment for her, but didn't want to overstep our bounds. We feel she deserves more than just flowers, though we might get her those as well."

"That's really sweet of you guys and I know she'd appreciate it."

"So, what did you get her?"

"I went and had a custom pendant designed for her."

"Impressive."

"Thanks. Like you guys, I felt this moment in her life needed something special. If you want, I can send you a picture of it and you and Seb can go from there. But you might want to talk to Nick as he and Santana got Brittany something as well."

"We can do that. How is she feeling?"

"She's really excited. She can't believe that opening night is almost here."

"We can't either. Now, we know how Lexi feels, but how does Britt feel about going back to work for Lexi as well?"

"She's excited. She missed being around Lexi and the kids. Only being able to go over their once a week was a big change for her. I think that's one of the reasons she went a bit overboard for their birthdays."

"You and Britt didn't go much crazier than almost everyone else. I honestly wonder if Lexi has found room for everything the kids got."

"I'm sure she has, yet you and Seb didn't go overboard."

"That's because Lexi and Coop asked us not too. Part of that comes from the fact Bas and I bring the kids' stuff all the time."

"Are you saying that you and Seb spoil them?"

"I will proudly admit that we do. Think, the gifts we gave them we actually brought back from our trip to Europe last summer." We went a little crazy. Just like Christmas this year, it took a lot of control on our parts to not go overboard." While they were having this conversation, Jeff forwarded the picture of the pendant to both Blaine and Sebastian so they could both have time to think about what they wanted to get. "This is beautiful Jeff."

"Thanks, it took awhile to come up with but I'm happy with how it turned out. Now it's just a matter of it getting finished."

"When was it supposed to be finished?"

"This past weekend, but when I called Sunday after we got back home they said it wasn't done."

"Did you ask if it'll be done by Thursday?"

"I did, and they said it would be, but I can't help feeling anxious. I don't want to give her a gift that anyone else could get."

"Well, if they said it would ready, have faith. For all you know they'll call you while in class today saying it has been finished."

"From your mouth to God's ears Blaine."

Throughout the day, Blaine and Sebastian kept exchanging different ideas as to what they could get Brittany after finding out from Nick what he and Santana got her. Once they'd narrowed it down to about three different things, Sebastian asked Blaine to meet him at the jewelers after they were done with classes that day. "And just where are you heading?" Hunter asked as he came up behind Sebastian.

"What makes you think I'm going somewhere besides home?"

"You'd be on the other side waiting for the train home. So, where to?"

"I'm meeting Blaine at the jewelers."

"Excuse me?" Hunter said loud enough that everyone around them turned to stare at them. Sebastian just shook his head and laughed.

"Not for that you dork. We're picking up a gift for Brittany to celebrate opening night."

"Okay, I just…"

"Yea, I know where you're head went and we're not there. But if the time comes, I'll let you know. Where are you heading since you should be on the other side as well?"

"I have to go see Cass at work."

"It must be pretty important that she's not waiting till she gets home."

"It is, there is paperwork that needs my signature and she'd prefer it gets taken care of now since she knows my week is a bit crazy." As Hunter spoke, he and Sebastian boarded the subway. "This way it'll be done and she won't have to worry about it. And she can concentrate on everything else she has going on. When are you and Blaine leaving?"

"Saturday morning, you?"

"Saturday afternoon. The thought of relaxing on a beach for a week is quite appealing."

"You don't have to tell me that. It's one of the reasons why B and I are going to the Caymans. While going to Florida and partying with everyone else sounded appealing as well. With everything we've gone through since the start of the year, we both just want this time to unwind. We're going to get in a bunch of diving, but besides that, we're going to relax."

"After everything you two have been through, you deserve it."

"Thanks. Safe to say our first year at school will be one we'll never forget, but never want to repeat."

"I'd have to say Blaine would agree with you completely. You two had more than enough excitement to last you both till you graduate."

"That is pretty spot on. I think we'll both be pleased to get through the rest of our school years in relative boredom. Speaking of, beware when you go to the airport on Saturday."

"Why?" Hunter asked.

"Our new issue comes out this week and last time Blaine and I flew after a release we had people come up to us in the airport."

"Duly noted. I think my Dad will get a kick out of that if it happens."

"So, is this trip just you and him or is the rest of your family going?"

"This is me and him. My Mom is taking my sisters, minus Cass somewhere else. And don't bother asking, because I have no clue as to where they are going. But my guess is a spa since Liz is going."

"When is the next time you have to see the whole family together?"

"We're all getting together in June for about a week or so, after that, who knows. My Mom wants me to stay in Colorado a bit longer, but I'd rather come back here or technically, out on the island."

"Can't say I blame you, it's a beautiful place."

"Well, you and Blaine are more than welcome to come out. And you should know Cass throws a huge bash on the Fourth which I know for fact you guys are invited."

"I will see to it that the days surround the Fourth are cleared then. I'm assuming Lexi knows about this shindig?"

"She does. I just thought I'd mention it since you guys spent last year in Ohio."

"I can tell you that won't be happening. B and I are going to go home for about a week or so, but it won't be over the Fourth. A lot is going to depend on his class schedule."

"So he is going to be taking classes this summer."

"Yep, he and Nick are both doing it. While neither regrets the career path they've chosen, they both want to do what they can to speed things a long a bit. Honestly, I don't blame either of them. I don't know if I could've chosen a career that takes that much schooling. But I know the fields they've chosen suit them both well."

Even though it was the day of her big opening, Brittany still headed over to Lexi and Cooper's Thursday morning. When she walked through the door, Lexi was honestly shocked as she hadn't expected her. "What are you doing here?"

"I do work for you, don't I?" Brittany replied with a smile as she picked Jocelyn up off the floor. "And while I told you I'd start back full time again next week, coming here just seemed right. You don't mind, do you?"

"I don't mind at all. It's great to see you actually. I was just about to feed the kids, are you hungry? We could eat and catch up while the kids eat as well."

"Sure, lead the way."

Once they were in the kitchen, Brittany helped Lexi get the kids settled in their highchairs and said she'd watch them so Lexi could get things ready. "Are you excited?" Lexi asked as she moved about the kitchen.

"I am. I thought I'd be more nervous but after all the preview performances I think I'm ready. Are you and Cooper coming tonight?"

"Yes, we will be there. Cooper is going to be upset that he missed you. He only left about twenty minutes before you arrived."

"If he just left, how are you sure he's going to be able to make it tonight?"

"They are reshooting some scenes from yesterday that the director isn't happy with. This was technically an off day for him but well, things happened. But he was told it won't be an all-day thing. Though to be safe, he did take a change of clothes with him as well as his ticket just in case."

"Blaine and Bas said your parents were coming to town, are they here?"

"They're arriving this afternoon along with Jeff's family."

"Sounds like you're going to have your own little cheering section."

"Yea, everyone is coming." Brittany replied with a giggle. "I think they're all more excited than I am right now. Maybe that's why I'm not nervous."

"That's one way to look at it."

The two continued to talk throughout breakfast and continued all the way up to Lexi's office. Since Lexi hadn't expected to have Brittany there that day, she decided to make the most of it and changed her planned day accordingly. Even though Brittany was only doing little things for her this day, like going through her box of fan-mail that had been delivered from her publisher, Lexi felt more relieved than she knew was possible. Some of it probably was due to the fact that while she'd kept up to date with deadlines and important things, small things had fallen to the wayside, like her fan-mail. "I guess you haven't gone through this stuff since I started rehearsing." Brittany said with a small laugh.

"I've gotten through some of it, but as you can tell I haven't gotten through much. Are they the usual fanfare?"

"They are, everyone asking for advice or asking how you came up with some of your more romantic ideas. I still don't see why people ask for advice since they have no idea whether you are married or not in real life since you write under a pen name. They know nothing about you."

"You don't know how many times I've asked myself that very question. For all they know I'm an angry woman with an ill-conceived idea of love."

"That couldn't be further from the truth."

"You're allowed to say that because you know me, unlike these people. I mean, I love that they feel comfortable enough pouring their hearts out to me, but sometimes I just shake my head."

"Understandable. And before I forget again, I was going to say this to you when I arrived, but thank you so much for those discs you sent my parents as well as the rest of us. They loved it and they loved that there were so many great pictures on the second disc. It made missing the show more bearable."

"It was our pleasure. I'm glad they liked it. We all thought you deserved something to remember everything you guys worked so hard for. I actually have a ton of those pictures in a frame, plus we printed some out as well."

"I know a lot of the gang printed some out as well. Blaine and Sebby have a great picture of them singing with Jeff, Nick, and Wes in their living room along with some other shots."

"If you look behind you I think you'll see the same picture." Brittany proceeded to look over her shoulder and there on a shelf was the exact picture. "I couldn't resist, that shot shows they're all singing from their hearts. You, Hailey, and Santana are all very lucky to have such wonderful guys in your lives. And well, you know how I feel about Blaine and Bas."

"Yea, we are lucky as are Blaine and Sebby."

The two of them worked and talked the day away and before they both knew it, it was time for Brittany to leave so that she could start getting ready and head to the theater. Brittany was just about to head out when Cooper came walking into the house. "If it isn't my favorite member of the council." He said as he gave her a hug.

"You don't know that yet Coop."

"Yes I do. Are you excited?"

"I am, but I better get going. I don't want to be late. Will I see you guys afterwards?"

"You will. Break a leg dear!" Cooper then gave her a kiss on the cheek.

"Thanks!" As she walked out of the house, Lexi wrapped her arms around Cooper and rested her head on his back.

"You look happy to have her back."

"I am, especially since I didn't expect her today. It was a complete surprise when she showed up this morning. I really missed her Coop. Having her around only once in a while was weird. Today flew by so quickly, but I managed to get so much done. Did you talk with Jay?"

"I did and they'll be around five so we can start getting ready."

"Are you sure they don't mind?"

"Not at all, and it's not like we're not returning the favor tomorrow night so they can see it."

"B, are you almost ready? We need to get going soon." Sebastian called out as he looked at his watch. "We can't be…" He stopped mid-sentence as Blaine came walking around the corner. "You were worth the wait."

"Why thank you. Got her bracelet?"

"I do. The box is wrapped and in my jacket pocket. And her flowers are in the foyer ready and waiting. So shall we?"

"We shall." Blaine replied as he took ahold of Sebastian's hand and they headed on their way. "Did you happen to talk to any of the guys today?"

"I did. Dave and Quinn were leaving after class today as were Trent and our elders."

"Did you talk to all of them or did you get this information relayed to you?"

"I spoke with Dave and Wes who gave me the rest of the information. You?"

"I spoke with Beat as well as Thad. Beat and Jess should already be in the city and Thad and Gretchen will meet us at the theater. And I know you don't need to know about Nick and Santana or Jeff for that matter."

"How is Jeff?"

"Beyond nervous."

"That's funny considering Lexi said Britt was typical Britt today when she came to work. I think Brittany wanted some normalcy with as crazy as this week has been."

"Do you honestly blame her?" Blaine said. "We're all so excited. I thought Rachel was going to hyperventilate when I spoke to her earlier."

"That doesn't surprise me one bit. It's nice to know she isn't being overwhelmed by everything."

"According to Jeff it's because of all the preview performances since there were audiences."

"Did he go to any of them?"

"He did and he can't wait for the rest of us to see it. So you know, she's not just dancing, she has a speaking role."

"Why am I just finding out about this now?" Sebastian asked as they got into the cab. "Didn't Jeff think this was important news to share?"

"I think everything that was going on overwhelmed him more than Britt. And since Britt didn't really talk about it much, it just fell by the wayside. Don't be upset up with him."

"I'm not; I just can't believe it only came up. Do you know if she ever told anyone back in Ohio what is going on?"

"She hasn't, but according to Jeff she'll say something after tonight. I think she was worried there might've been some negativity. You know some people out there are a bit pessimistic."

"True, but I think Jeff would've beaten the crap out of any one that rained on Britt's parade."

"Probably, but he let Britt take the lead in all this and this is how she wanted to handle it. I think she got so used to people back home telling her she couldn't do something that she wanted to keep this moment to herself."

"When you put it that way, I really can't blame her."

By the time they arrived at the theater, quite a few of their friends were already outside. After saying their hellos, Thad proceeded to tell Blaine and Sebastian that Jeff was inside and that Nick and Santana should be there momentarily with the parents. No sooner did the words leave Thad's mouth did Nick and Santana arrive accompanied by the Pierces as well as the Sterlings along with Ally. Brittany's parents were more than a little surprised, but were happy to see that all of Brittany's friends had come to support her big moment.

They were just heading in when Cooper and Lexi arrived, along with Donovan, Cassie, and Hunter. Not surprisingly Hunter quickly excused himself from Cassie and Donovan and joined his friends. Once they were inside the lobby the conversation picked back up again. As they all made sure to have their programs as well as their playbills, the older siblings were speaking with the parents. While the Sterlings knew Cooper and Lexi as well as Donovan, they took care of the introductions to Brittany's parents. Mrs. Pierce was thrilled to finally meet Cooper and Lexi since Brittany loved working for Lexi. They were happy that Lexi had given Brittany a chance even with no experience. Lexi proceeded to tell them that she took Blaine and Sebastian's word about Brittany and she has more than proven herself. And told them how much she counts on her.

When they finally made their way to their seats, Ally and Megan sat on one side of Nick and Santana with the parents on the other. By the time overture began, most of them glanced over at Jeff who had a look on his face that was a mixture of excitement and nervousness. Once the curtain rose, all eyes were on the stage and show. Since they all knew the show, they knew exactly when the council would first appear. No sooner did they appear it took every bit of control they all had not to erupt upon seeing Brittany on stage.

Seeing Brittany in full costume was a sight to behold and she was fully embracing her character. By the time the intermission rolled around they were all excited about the chance to finally talk about what they'd seen so far. "It's everything you told me!" Blaine told Jeff as they all circled around him. "She really is good!"

"She is, isn't she?" Jeff replied in almost a shy manner. "It took a bit to get used to seeing her look like that."

"I could see why." Trent told him. "But she pulls it off well. Rachel, what do you think?"

"I'm really impressed. I think this is honestly a great show for her to get her feet wet; it's a lot of fun. I think the girl playing Amber could show a little more life though. Part of her performance seems a bit flat."

"Nice to know I'm not the only one who was thinking that" Quinn said. "Obviously the character isn't the nicest, but right now I'm not feeling much of anything, which is sad. It's the only weak spot in the show. And if we've noticed ,you know the critics will." Sebastian as well as Brody agreed with her but both also knew that that was truly the only weak spot in the show. Before they could get into anymore detail it was time to head back in for the second act.

While the first act was fun, everyone was looking forward to the big dance numbers in the second act. It wasn't that they weren't enjoying the show, but they couldn't wait for Brittany to really do her thing. Like the first act, the second didn't disappoint either. So by the time the finale began everyone was more than ready. When the show finally closed, there was a standing ovation. Once the curtain call began, it was clear that a member of the council had quite a few friends in the audience as their applause were almost as loud as those for the leads.

After the lights came on in the theater, all eyes fell to Jeff as well as Brittany's parents. It was clear that all of them were extremely proud. Those looks were almost mirrored by Jeff's parents and everyone else. "I think someone is anxious to see someone." Nick said before they began exiting the theater.

"I think you're right." Santana replied.

"You two are as anxious as he is so take it easy on him." Wes told them. "But I really don't blame any of you. We can't wait to congratulate her either."