Author's note: Pay attention to the day things are happening. The chapter takes pace over a 10-day period.

"To share your weakness is to make yourself vulnerable; to make yourself vulnerable is to show your strength." – Criss Jami

May - Sunday

"I think we should do the photo shoot on the set Tuesday. On Wednesday, we'll do the outdoor shoot and then we'll head to Blaine's place," Paul, the lead photographer, suggests after listening to Blaine's plans for the revised June issue. "Can someone get the permit to shoot in Central Park? Let's pray it doesn't rain."

"I'll get someone to sort that out," Tina replies, furiously typing into her computer.

"Will that give you enough time to get the outfits together, Liam?" Blaine asks.

"You've got a fantastic wardrobe, Blaine. I'm thinking that we'll use your clothes so they don't need to be altered. Can I come over this evening to pick out some outfits? That will leave Monday for doing any necessary cleaning and selecting the accessories."

At Blaine's nod, Liam continues. "The main thing that worries me is the cover. I'm not sure I can pull it off. I'm thinking we should use a professional theater costume designer, but I doubt we can get someone to create what you're thinking of before Tuesday."

Blaine leans back in his chair and takes off his glasses before rubbing his eyes. This was always going to be the difficult part.

"I've got an idea," Paul says. "Why don't we Photoshop it? I'm good friends with Jeff Huang, who's the best in the field for digital art, and he's based right here in New York City."

"Do you think he'll agree to do it?" Blaine asks hopefully.

"Think of the exposure he'll get with his digital art on the cover of Vogue. Jeff will be all over it. Let me call him now."

When Paul has left the room, Blaine turns to Unique. "I'm counting on you living up to your name in the make-up area."

Unique gulps and slowly nods. "I've already texted Lady Divine, who's promised to help me. But your hair, Blaine…"

"What's wrong with it?"

"I'm thinking that you need an edgier style."

"Nope, I'm not getting rid of the curls. Not doing it. I spent my teenage years gelling my hair, and now that I've figured out a way to control them, I'm keeping the curls."

Unique huffs and stands up, placing a hand on her hip. "Honey, you need to trust Unique. I'm not suggesting for one single moment that you get rid of those curls. I'm thinking about a cut that will show them off even more. When Mark Townsend helped us out on the Hamilton-inspired photo shoot, he had some really great ideas about your hair."

"Okay, Unique. I guess it's go big or go home. Can you set up an appointment for tomorrow?"

"Already done. Townsend is expecting you at 4 p.m."

Now that all aspects of the photo shoot have been discussed, the conversation turns to the main article.

"I want to make one thing very clear about the main article. I must have full editorial control. There are specific things I want included and other things I will not discuss. That is non-negotiable."

"Do you want to write the article yourself?" Isabelle politely asks.

"No. I won't have the time and it would get far too sappy. I'm looking for a top-notch journalist to write it to my specifications."

Isabelle sits up straight before she replies. "Santino Cruz is a new staff writer for the website. He's a wonderful reporter, and his articles are thoughtful and compassionate. I'm expecting him to go places one day, but for now, he writes articles about celebrities and travel pieces."

"Do you think Santino is up for the job?"

"Yes, I do. I can be there during the interview, if you like, and polish up the article before your final editing."

"I trust your judgement, Isabelle. I'll email you the list of things I wish to be included. Can you and Santino start the interview tomorrow morning? It looks like I'm going to be very busy with the photo shoots after that."

"Consider it done. We'll also have to run the article by your PR agency."

Tina and the head of distribution talk about the logistics of getting the revised cover and article to the printers in time. The finance director approves the additional costs for the overtime required to print and distribute the issue over the weekend. The website content has been assigned over to Isabelle's number two – she will be far too busy with the article and coordinating events to give the website the attention it deserves.

At the end of the meeting, Blaine smiles for the first time, realizing that this is really going to happen. He returns to his office to make an important phone call. It's the last piece of the puzzle that needs to be in place to pull off Operation Woo Kurt.


"Blaine Anderson. How nice to hear from you! I haven't seen you since you came on the show after becoming Vogue's editor-in-chief."

"Has it really been that long, Ellen?"

"Yes, it has been that long. So when are you going to grace my show with your presence again?"

"I'm glad you asked that. How far ahead do you tape your show?"

"One day."

"So if I wanted to be on the show on a Tuesday, it would be taped on the Monday?"

"Yes, that's right. Why do you ask?"

Blaine crosses his fingers because the timing would work if Ellen agrees.

"I have a special favor to ask you, Ellen. I'd like to be on the show airing on June 1st. Here's what's happening…"

Blaine gives a quick spiel about Operation Woo Kurt, June's Vogue issue, and how The Ellen Show fits into his plans. When he's finished pitching his story, Blaine takes deep breaths, nervously waiting for Ellen's reaction.

"Are you serious, Blaine? I didn't think you had it in you to be so bold."

Blaine chuckles, "Yeah, I didn't think so either. So what do you say, can I be on your show?"

"Absolutely! This appearance will top everyone we've had this year. The only thing that would make it better is if Kurt were in the audience."

"Sorry, but no can do. Kurt is currently in the Mid-West staying with his dad. I need this to be a complete surprise."

"Ugh, I understand. I'll have the program director contact your office tomorrow about when you're needed on set. Let's meet up for lunch that day so you can tell me all about it and we can figure out a plan for the appearance."


Tuesday

Blaine looks at himself in the mirror in the make-up area, and cannot believe that it's really him. He's never worn so much make-up in his life. Blaine has always been confident about his looks, knowing that others find him attractive, but this is the first time he thinks of himself as beautiful.

"Don't touch your face!" Lady Divine cries out. "You're a work of art and I can't have you messing it up."

"How do you like it?" Unique asks in a shaky voice.

"I love it, but could I have some eyeliner? Err… Kurt likes it on me."

"Anything for that boy," Lady Divine smirks as she carefully applies the liquid liner to his eyelids.

Unique squeezes a very small dollop of hair product into her palm and carefully works it through his hair. Blaine loves his new hairstyle and only hopes that Kurt does as well.

As he waits for the set to be ready, Blaine relaxes for the first time since Sunday morning. There had been clothes to select, the set stylists had worked there magic in his house, and of course there had been the interview itself. Blaine had been impressed by Santino Cruz. It took half an hour to get the staff writer to relax in his presence, but once Blaine and Santino realized that they both loved Broadway, they forged a bond. Santino stayed on script for the main interview, while Isabelle interjected with a few more detailed questions. At the end, Santino had asked additional questions about the Monarch Foundation and its long-term plans. Blaine could see where he was going with this, so he gave a lot of background information and shared his vision. Santino then suggested that the article should include the Monarch House and offered to find a Westerville photographer to take some photos. Isabelle was right – Santino Cruz will be going places someday.

Liam comes over and gives Blaine a quick look-over. No special clothing is needed for this part of the photo shoot. "I almost forgot. Let me take that wristband off before you go on set," Liam says, pulling Blaine's arm towards him.

Blaine angrily pushes the hand away, which startles Liam. "Don't touch it! I'm never going to take off this wristband! It means everything to me. It stays on during the photo shoot."

"Okay. Sorry, Blaine. I didn't know that it was so special to you," Liam meekly replies.

"Sorry that I raised my voice, but it is special."

"We're ready when you are," Paul shouts.

Blaine nervously gets up and adjusts the tiny shorts. He feels self-conscious without a shirt to cover his chest. Unique had insisted that he have an upper body wax yesterday, and his chest feels weird. He can feel Unique rub his shoulder. "You'll do fine. Just remember that you're the greatest diva of them all."

Blaine laughs at Unique's comment and smiles back. "That's because I've got you as a sidekick, my dear."

Blaine walks onto the set and stands where the marking is on the floor. The lights are blinding and he hopes he doesn't start to sweat.

"Anything you want to listen to?" Paul asks.

"I've already got it set up," Steve, the lighting technician, replies, and he turns on the audio system.

What a diff'rence a day made
Twenty-four little hours
Brought the sun and the flowers
Where there used to be rain
My yesterday was blue, dear
Today I'm part of you, dear

As Blaine moves into the positions that Paul calls out, he thinks back to the 24 hours that he had spent with Kurt in LA. It was the most incredible experience of his life. Blaine's arms flow in time to the music, imagining being held in Kurt's arms. He rolls his head, remembering feeling Kurt inside his body, filling him with ecstasy and love.

"That's a wrap. God, Blaine, you should be a model. You can really make your body flow like liquid. And do you know how hard it is to make models look dreamy-eyed like that?" Paul remarks.

"Thanks, but I think I'll stick to my job behind my desk after this week. This is too much hard work," Blaine chuckles.


Friday

Blaine glances up from his computer screen and looks at Isabelle and at Santino, who is nervously twisting his hands in his lap.

"It's perfect. We'll run with this article."

Blaine can see the relief wash over both of their faces.

"Santino, this is excellent work. I especially like what you wrote about the Monarch Foundation. Maybe I can rope you into writing some of the foundation's promotional materials… The photos you picked out are perfect. Now go take the rest of the day off. You deserve it."

Santino thanks Blaine before leaving. When Isabelle gets up, Blaine pleads with her to stay.
"Can you stay with me until the cover photo is delivered? I'm really nervous to see what it looks like."

"Sure, I'll stay. But honestly, Blaine, you have nothing to worry about. The photos in the main spread are fantastic."

"But the cover is so out there! By the way, thanks for suggesting Santino for writing the article. You're right. He's very talented. I wonder if there's a position available to give him a promotion?"

"I'll look into it and make it happen."

Their conversation is interrupted by a knock on the door. Blaine eagerly waves Paul and Jeff Huang into his office. Paul hands over the printout of the June issue's cover, and Blaine gasps when he sees it.

"I…I don't know what to say. This surpasses anything I ever imagined it would be. It truly is a piece of art. Let's go with it."

Isabelle jumps up and gives Blaine a hug. "You pulled it off! I have to admit, when you told us the ideas for article and cover on Sunday, I didn't think we had any chance of making such a tight deadline. But you did!"

"I honestly couldn't have done it without everyone pulling together and working crazy hours. The real proof will be in the reactions of Kurt and the readers on Tuesday."

Once everyone has cleared out of his office, Blaine checks the time. He needs to get ready to leave for the airport. He plans to be in LA over the weekend so that he can spend time with Sam and Cooper. Blaine feels bad about cutting his last trip short, but once Kurt left, Blaine just wanted to go home. When Blaine hears his phone ping, he quickly looks at the new message.

You've been quiet this week. I miss you :(. Is everything okay? – K xx

Blaine feels badly about not being in touch with Kurt all week, but he's afraid that if he talked to Kurt, he would blurt out his plans by mistake. As much as Blaine hates doing it, he types out his reply.

Work has been incredibly busy with the June issue deadline. I'm off to LA and won't be returning until Monday night. Let's talk on Tuesday. I love you and miss you too. – B xxxxxxxx

Blaine quickly grabs his carry-on suitcase and heads out of the building and into his car, which is waiting at the curb.

"Traffic is fine, Blaine. I think we'll make it to JFK airport with plenty of time to spare. Get done what you needed to at the office?" Bentley asks.

"Yeah, I've approved the June issue to go to the printers. It's been quite the week. Thanks for putting up with me and all the craziness of getting me to different locations. I'm looking forward to a weekend relaxing with Sam, Mercedes and Cooper."

That it's… All or nothing… All or nothing… Cause this is my life… I'm not gonna live it twice…

Blaine smiles as he presses accept on his phone. "Hey, Marley. What's up?"

"Oh my god, Blaine. You'll never believe it. SONY is interested in our song! I personally dropped the demo off at their offices this morning, and you know what? It turns out that the personal assistant of the VP in charge of new talent has been to the Treble Clef Jazz Club before and has heard me sing 'All or Nothing'. He remembered the song and loves it, so brought the demo directly to his boss. After about 30 minutes, the VP ushered me into her office and started to discuss a deal to produce my first album."

"That's wonderful news, Marley!"

"You better get your songwriting into gear, because I need about eight more songs."

"That's kind of you to think of me," replies Blaine.

"It's more than that, Blaine. The VP loved the music composition. She wants to see more original songs like that."

"Marley, I'm on my way to the airport now and will be in LA until next Tuesday night. Why don't I call you when I get back and we can discuss it in more detail?"

After agreeing to talk next week, Blaine ends the call and lets out a deep breath. Everything has happened so quickly this week. Recording the demo song on Saturday, changing the direction of Vogue's June issue on Sunday, haircuts, body wax, and the interview on Monday, the photo shoots on Tuesday and Wednesday, reviewing the issue on Thursday, and approving the interview and cover photo today. However, Blaine thinks it's all worth it, particularly if he gets to see Kurt next week.

Blaine mentally goes through all the plans from now until Tuesday, June 1st. There's only one last detail he needs to take care of. He scrolls through his contact list and makes the call.

"Blaine. What can I do for you, bud?"

"Hi, Burt. After we talked on Saturday, I figured out a plan to woo Kurt."

"I know you did. Your father filled me in. I even went over to the Monarch House to be in the photos. I can't wait to see Kurt's face when he sees the June issue. He's gonna love it."

"I hope he does. I need your help on one little matter. What are you doing next Tuesday at 3 p.m.?"


Tuesday

Kurt is surprised to see his father at the kitchen table at 8 a.m. Usually, he's already left at that time to open the garage.

"Shouldn't you be at work, Dad?"

"Timmy's opening the shop today. I thought I would take it easy this morning."

Kurt sees his father glance at the kitchen clock and fidget on his seat.

"You home all day, kiddo?"

"No plans yet. I'm going to spend time designing this morning. I'll see what the weather's like before I decide what to do in the afternoon."

"How about I come home early and we do something together. You're always going on at me about how we don't have a decent guest bedroom. Maybe we can fix it up or something?"

Kurt looks at his father skeptically. Since when does his dad volunteer to decorate a room? Before Kurt can figure out what's going on, the doorbell rings.

"Go answer the door. It's for you."

Kurt shakes his head and chuckles. Something is definitely going on. When he answers the door, he sees the postman with a large envelope from Vogue. Kurt accepts the envelope and sets it down on the counter before opening the fridge to figure out what he'll have for breakfast.

"Aren't you gonna open it?"

"It's just the June issue of Vogue. I'll read it this evening after dinner."

"You'll do no such thing! Open it now!" Burt roars.

"Okay, Dad. Calm down - remember your heart. I didn't know it's so important to you that I read Vogue as soon as I receive it."

"Well, it is," Burt huffs.

Kurt can feel his dad's eyes on him as he carefully takes the magazine out of the envelope. Kurt's jaw drops and tears slowly form when he sees the cover.

Blaine is on the cover.

Blaine is naked from the waist up, wearing what looks like shorts. Kurt can tell that Blaine has been keeping up his exercise regime and he likes what he sees. Before Kurt gets too carried away looking at the distinctive V trailing down into the shorts, his eyes rake up Blaine's chest. Did Blaine really wax his body? Kurt hopes that he can convince Blaine to grow back his chest hair because he loves the feel of it against his naked body. It does things to him.

Kurt next looks at Blaine's face. Blaine's wearing make-up, but it's slightly smudged – as if he has just finished a strenuous performance. Kurt bites his fist when he manages to take his eyes off Blaine to see the total picture. Blaine's arms are clasped together as if praying, and behind him are butterfly wings. The wings are ethereal and look almost transparent - a blend of green and blue colors, with flecks of gold. Kurt gasps when he sees that Blaine's only adornment is the silicone rainbow bracelet. The background looks as if Blaine has risen from a fantasy scene. Printed along the top of the cover is Blaine Anderson – Find out what really matters to him. Kurt wipes his tears from his eyes, appreciating that no-one else would understand the butterfly wings.

Only him. It's all for him.

Kurt feels his father wrap his arms around him. The feeling grounds him as he cries into his dad's chest.

"I hope those are happy tears, son."

"I can't believe that Blaine did this. God, I love him so much."

"I know you do. Aren't you going to read the interview?"

Kurt nods and returns to his seat. He opens the issue and gasps when he sees the beginning of the six-page article.

The first pages contain two amazing photos of Blaine with a different, more polished look altogether. Blaine's hair has been cut short along the sides and back, but the top has been left long with luscious curls. Kurt loves the new hair style. There's shimmery blue glitter both over and under Blaine's eyes and it expertly fades into his upper cheek bones. There's a strip of pink rouge on his cheeks that blends into his sideburns. Blaine's full lips are coated with bright red shimmery lipstick. The photos are just head shots, but continue the butterfly wings theme. In the first photo, Blaine is wearing a pair of butterfly wings, and in the second photo, three butterflies flutter in front of his face.

Blaine looks absolutely stunning.

The article starts with setting out some background information about Blaine, but then it delves into what matters to him. Kurt thinks that the article is brilliantly laid out into themes, with corresponding photos. There's a photo of Blaine playing the piano in his penthouse. The article goes on to describe how music is important in his life. The next photo is of Blaine running in Central Park, and the article describes how Blaine keeps fit and healthy. Kurt turns the page and sees a photo of the Monarch House, with teenagers and parents at a BBQ in the backyard. He looks closely to see if he can recognize anybody. He can make out Michael and…

"Dad, you were in on this!"

Burt laughs and checks out the photo. "That photo has turned out alright. Michael Anderson called me last Monday night and told me a little about the issue. I wanted to be a part of it, so I took Tuesday morning off," Burt sheepishly replies.

Kurt grimaces when he sees the photo of Blaine and Sebastian. It's the exact same photo that he discovered in Blaine's wallet in LA. His eyes quickly return to the article.

Sebastian Smythe is the editor-in-chief of Elle magazine, our major competitor. Sebastian and I have known each other since high school and have always been rivals. It's made me stay alert to potential problems and to take risks for new opportunities. It's kept me on my toes and spurred me on to keep moving forward. Up until recently, I kept this photo in my wallet as a reminder that competition is essential to push yourself to succeed. Honestly, I admire Sebastian. He's smart and a very savvy businessman. His recent donation to the Monarch Foundation only confirms that there is a compassionate side to him as well.

Kurt feels horrible that he jumped to conclusions as to why Blaine kept that photo in his wallet. He knew there would be a perfectly good reason that didn't include a bet about him. Blaine was very clever at working this into the article.

Kurt laughs at the photo of Blaine in his Nightbird Outfit. He definitely wants to see Blaine in it in a more private setting. He reads the corresponding part of the interview carefully.

Someone special recently reminded me how important bucket lists are. They can contain little things like exploring your neighborhood or trying something new. However, a really good bucket list also has your long-term hopes and dreams.

Kurt thinks about his bucket list and can't wait until they include hopes and dreams shared with Blaine. When Kurt turns the page, nothing has prepared him for the photo. It is simply Blaine's lower arm and hand with the silicone rainbow bracelet stamped Love is love is love is love.

Above all else, love is what matters to me.

It's the love of my family, who are very supportive. It has only been this year that I learned how important my father's love is. Working with him to establish the Monarch House in Westerville has been an incredible experience. It has taught me that my roots really matter.

It's the love of my partner, someone I can truly be myself with. My love for him fills me with such joy and makes me feel as if I can do anything. But at the same time, it grounds me and keeps me safe and connected. Most importantly, he's my best friend, and there is nothing better than a day spent together.

The future? I very much believe in marriage and I want to spend every day of my life loving my future husband. I hope it will be full of love for our children and grandchildren. I will die a very happy man if I can achieve this sort of love. This is what really matters to me.

Kurt puts down the magazine. Blaine has laid out each of his core values in this article. There are so many little things in the article that make it feel so personal to him.

"I'm going to lie down in my room, Dad. I've got a lot to think about."

"Yes, I think you do. I'm going to head to the garage to make sure everything is okay. I'll see you at lunchtime."


"Are you sure dove gray will be a good color for the walls? It sounds dreary to me."

"It's sophisticated, Dad. And it will go perfectly with the Ralph Lauren comforter set. I even have a 20% off coupon at Bed, Bath and Beyond. It won't cost that much."

Burt checks his watch for the hundredth time since they started the project in the guest bedroom. When it's 2:55 p.m., Burt stretches his arms over his head.

"Okay, kiddo. You can order the comforter set. I'll pick up the paint this week and we can decorate this weekend. What do you say we watch some TV?"

"No, thanks, Dad. You know I hate watching ESPN."

"Come on, Kurt. I promise not to watch sports. Maybe a reality show or something like that?"

"Really?"

"I wanna spend as much time as possible with you before you run off to New York City again. I have a feeling that's going to be sooner rather than later."

Kurt follows Burt down the stairs and into the living room. When Kurt picks up the TV remote, his dad snatches it out of his hands and sits in his comfortable reclining armchair.

"I thought I could pick the show," Kurt groans.

"You can, but let me flick through the channels first."

Kurt sits down on the couch and picks up Vogue, staring at Blaine on the cover. Frankly, he couldn't care less what they watch because he wants to read the article all over again.

"Fancy that. The Ellen Show is on. Let's watch it," Burt suggests.

Kurt quirks an eyebrow at his dad. "You like The Ellen Show?"

"I don't get to watch it 'cause I'm always at the garage in the afternoons. I wanna see what it's all about. I hear she has interesting guests."

Kurt shrugs. If his dad wants to watch The Ellen Show, he can. It doesn't matter to Kurt. He continues to stare at the photo of Blaine on Vogue's cover, wondering what his next move should be. He hears the audience clapping and Ellen's voice doing the usual introduction.

"… warm welcome for the one and only Blaine Anderson"

Kurt looks up when he hears Blaine's name and sees Blaine walking across the stage.

"You knew about this too!" Kurt cries out, tossing a throw pillow at his dad.

"I've set the DVR up. Now, shhh, let's watch it."

Blaine is wearing black-and-white geometric sports jacket and matching trousers with a pink collared shirt, unbuttoned at the top. Not many men could pull off that look, but Blaine looks incredible in it.

"Blaine, you look fantastic. Who are you wearing?"

"Thank you, Ellen. I'm wearing Thom Browne. There are lots of amazing designs come through Vogue's doors."

"I haven't seen you since you became Vogue's editor-in-chief. How's that going?"

Kurt listens to Blaine explain what has been going on at Vogue, but his mind is really focused on a key question. What the hell is Blaine Anderson doing on The Ellen Show on an ordinary Tuesday? Kurt tunes back in when Blaine stops talking about Vogue.

"I hear that you might have found a new job."

When Blaine gives her a questioning look, the back screen lights up with Blaine's photo on Vogue's June cover. The audience gasps and is silent for a moment or two, before loud shrieks and applause can be heard.

"Ladies and gentlemen… Blaine Anderson, the supermodel."

"I'm not sure about that. I won't be giving up my day job any time soon. Modeling is hard work!"

"So what made you do it? Why grace the cover of Vogue?"

"Vogue's April issue was about 'pushing boundaries'. It made me wonder if I pushed the boundaries in my own life. I was recently in LA, just for a day, and I had an epiphany – a clear vision about what's important in my life."

The photos from the Vogue issue fade in and out of the back screen. Blaine and Ellen talk through the highlights of the magazine article, with additional time spent on the Monarch Foundation.

"I think we all want to know why you decided to make such a public statement."

"There are so many photos of me on social media and things written about me. 99% of it isn't true."

"You mean you aren't a man-eater who can have sex simultaneously in New York, London and Sydney?

"No, and I don't live in a castle either," Blaine chuckles.

The last photo of Blaine's wrist with the rainbow bracelet appears on the screen.

"So, love…" Ellen prompts.

Blaine takes a sip of water before he continues. "Since I was a teenager, I've always known that love, a husband and a family are important to me. Being gay, I didn't know how that would work out until marriage equality swept through all 50 states."

The studio audience applauds and loudly cheers, before allowing Blaine to continue.

"It was during that special day in LA that I went from believing to knowing that love is the most important thing in my life. To have a husband, children – that would make me complete."

"That must have been one very special day."

"Yeah, it was," Blaine shyly replies.

"So, is there someone special in your life?"

"Yes, there is a special man in my life. I'm not going to name him. Our relationship is still new and fragile, but I love him very much."

"I understand you have a song you want to perform."

Blaine nods his head.

"After the break, we will be hearing a live performance from Blaine Anderson."

Kurt's tears turn into sobs as the ads start. Burt walks over, sits on the couch and pulls Kurt in with one arm.

"I just…"

"I know, Kurt. Deep breaths."

When The Ellen Show returns, Blaine is on the stage sitting at a baby grand piano, with a small back-up band. The spotlight is on Blaine, and as he looks up, he says, "This one's for you, boyfriend."

If I was a raindrop
Would you be my thunder storm?
It's cold so surround me
With rain clouds to keep me warm
I feel like I'm falling
So darling, don't let me go
The thought is appalling
But should I slip away
Into the stormy sea will you remember me?

Kurt loves the song, its upbeat tempo, and Blaine's rich tenor voice as he sings. The song's lyrics are playful and hopeful, and give Kurt a warm feeling.

Asleep in our warm cocoons
We dream of lovely things
We're both gonna wake up soon
So we hope that tomorrow brings
Us our butterfly wings

Kurt laughs at the butterfly reference. Butterflies are really their thing. It had started with the first photo shoot where Kurt modeled for Vogue and then led to the beautiful brooch Blaine gave him for his birthday. When the song ends, Kurt can hear a thunder of applause from the audience.

When Ellen introduces the next guest, Burt gets up and switches off the TV. He glances over at Kurt furiously tapping on his tablet.

"6:36 a.m. tomorrow," Burt remarks.

Kurt looks up and gives his father a questioning look.

"The next direct flight from Dayton to New York City is at 6:36 tomorrow morning. There are still seats left. I checked earlier."

"But… How did you know?"

"Buddy, it's been obvious since you arrived ten days ago. You may be in Lima, but your heart is firmly in New York City. After what Anderson did for you, I figured that you would want to go to him."

"Do you think I'm ready?"

"The more important question is whether you think you're ready," Burt replies.

"I'm not sure what I'm going to do with my life, but studying fashion is a step in the right direction to figure it out. One thing I know for sure is that in any version of my life that I dream about, Blaine is in it."

"So what are you waiting for? Don't you have a phone call to make? Some packing to do? I'll go book the flight."


"Kurt…Hi," Blaine says when he answers his phone.

"I love you! I love you! I love you! That photo on Vogue's cover is amazing. The article is amazing. The Ellen Show is amazing. The song is amazing. You're amazing."

"It wasn't too over the top?"

"Of course it was, but that's what I love about it. How did you organize things so fast? I only gave you the rainbow wristband ten days ago."

"Let's just say that very few people at Vogue got any sleep last week," Blaine chuckles. "But I would move heaven and earth if it meant that you would come to New York City to be with me."

"You're the master of the cheesy lines."

"Do they work?" Blaine whispers.

"I have only question for you, Blaine…"

When Kurt hears Blaine breath hitch, he continues,

"Will you pick me up at LaGuardia tomorrow morning?"


Author notes

Song at Blaine's photo shoot – 'What a Difference a Day Made'. There are many covers of this song but my favorite is by Jamie Cullum.
Song Blaine sings on the Ellen Show – 'Butterfly Wings' by Owl City. Now you know how I picked the title for the story :)

You MUST go to my tumblr account (HKVoyage dot tumblr dot com) to see the artwork for the Vogue issue. There is a link on the main page to the Butterfly Wings master post, and then there is a link to the story artwork. Alternatively, you can see the photos embedded directly in the chapter on A03 (my user name is HKVoyage). I replaced the story icon on this site with the Vogue cover so that you can get a glimpse, but there is also the inside article to look at. You can just imagine my reaction when I received these gems. They were created by at Cassie at CC-graphics on Tumblr.She has been so unbelievably supportive of a newbie author like myself. The overall story artwork was produced early on and some days, it was the only thing that kept me going with this story. Please note that I will revert the story icon back to the butterfly brooch once I finish posting this story so that it's not a spoiler for new readers.

Whilst you're at my Tumblr account, why don't you check out the author notes for this chapter. I couldn't have possibly written this story without my fantastic beta, Lilyvandersteen, although all mistakes are mine.

Next up: Kurt arrives in New York City. Heads up – there are only three more chapters and an epilogue to go.