The loud slam of the front door causes Blaine to startle in his chair. He has been sitting at the kitchen table since he arrived home late last night, determined to wait up in case Kurt changed his mind. He didn't of course, and at some point Blaine must have drifted into a fretful sleep, head resting on the kitchen table. But he woke well before dawn and sat staring at the as yet unopened bottle of whiskey before giving in as the sun came up, and pouring himself a large measure.

"We have no money," Blaine says as he hears Kurt's footsteps entering the room.

"So you're buying whiskey? Real smart Blaine."

"I only had one!" he exclaims as Kurt puts the cap back on the bottle and climbs on the counter to shove it atop the cabinets- right to the back where he knows full well Blaine can't reach. "Hey!"

"Even so, it's seven in the morning. I know you, Blaine. And I won't put up with it. So. No money. Care to explain?" He stands, leaning against the counter with his arms folded and lips pulled taut. He looks tired, and Blaine wants to usher him to bed and tuck him up tight...but he can tell what Kurt's response would be to that suggestion.

"I've let you down so badly," he whispers.

"Why? Have you gambled? Been frivolous? Borrowed from a loan shark?"

"No! No, none of those things." Blaine cries.

"Then tell me."

"My tenant has left," he says with a heavy sigh. "So I have to cover the mortgage from my salary. Which would be fine, but I had kinda scaled back on my session work thinking- stupidly- that I'd be with the symphony. Then you enrolled in ballet class..which is also fine," he adds hurriedly. "But I'm also still paying off my credit card from buying your engagement ring ...it's just things are...tight I guess. I'm not completely broke," he says desperately. "I can still afford the rent and utilities but...but there's like...nothing left after that."

"Why the hell didn't you tell me any of this?"

"Because I was hoping things would change," Blaine says, eyes filling with tears as he notices Kurt is crying. "And I don't want to let you down. I'm thirty four years old and I can't manage my own money, what must you think of me now? I want to take care of you. I want you to have the best in life, always. Because you deserve it. I wanted to take you on vacation this summer, I wanted you to be able to choose the best designer to make your wedding tux, I wanted..."

"I'll get a job," Kurt announces, pushing away from the counter and beginning to pace.

"No! Please don't do that. Please."

"Blaine, listen to me," Kurt snaps as he whirls around to face him. "I don't get why you always think you have to be the hunter gatherer, the big cheese. Honestly, I get that you want to look after me, and that's incredibly sweet, but sometimes I feel like you want a nineteen fifties housewife rather than an equal. I was not made to be subservient to anyone, Blaine, and yes, you're older but that doesn't put you in charge. I am more than capable of looking after me, of us." He pauses, running a hand through his hair before he kneels in front of Blaine, gathering his hands in his and speaking softly.

"I'm not mad that our finances aren't great, I'm hurt that you didn't say anything. I don't have to take those classes, I can take the ones at college which are free. We don't need a vacation, we can drive to Lima for a few days, or even to New York to visit Santana and Rachel if we really feel the need to get away, but other than that I can do what most other college kids are doing this summer, I can get a job. I can work and earn money just like you do. It may not be as much, but it will be something."

"I'm so sorry," Blaine whispers as two tears make their way down his cheeks.

"It's okay," Kurt tells him. "We'll get through this." Reaching out he brushes a stray curl gently from Blaine's forehead. "Together, though. It's not your money troubles, they're ours. And you know what? It's only money."

"But you like to buy stuff," Blaine points out.

"I do spend quite a lot, don't I?" Kurt smiles ruefully.

"You do, yes. But so do I, or I did, anyway."

"But Blaine? We don't have to. I have a tendency to buy books I could borrow from the library, just because I like the smell and feel of new paper. And we have a large walk in closet that's rammed full, I don't need any more clothes. As for the wedding tuxes...they will be made by the best designer, because I'm going to make them myself, and I'd decided that long before any of this came to light."

"You're pretty awesome," Blaine says, managing a weak smile.

"And so are you," Kurt says firmly. "Don't be so hard on yourself. You haven't done anything wrong, it was a set of unavoidable circumstances- a run of bad luck which has left us struggling a little bit. Most of the country is the same right now. The world, even. It's nothing to be ashamed of, and we'll be back on our feet in no time."

"I love you so much," Blaine chokes out as he half laughs, half sobs in relief.

"And I love you too. But you have to talk to me. That's what worries me more than the money. Your inability, or reluctance to tell me what's bothering you. These rings are supposed to say we love each other enough to commit to be together for the rest of our lives, Blaine. How can I love each and every part of you if you won't let me in? I need to see what's on your heart, I need you to voice your thoughts, your insecurities...so I can help you, yes. But also so I can know you, and love you as much as I possibly can."

"I know. And I do try, really."

"I know you do, and you're getting better. But like I said, I am your partner. Your equal. Yes, I need looking after, but so do you. We're supposed to do that for each other. So let me, okay?"

"But..." he starts, and Kurt laughs as he holds Blaine's head in his hands.

"Yes Kurt, of course Kurt," he says as he moves Blaine's jaw up and down, imitating his voice. "I promise to tell you everything, Kurt."

"Stop it," Blaine laughs as he pushes his hands away. "Okay, I promise."

"Good." Leaning forward, still on his knees, he winds his arms around Blaine's neck. "Now kiss me, you fool. Kisses are always free."

Blaine traces his fingers along Kurt's jaw slowly, smiling at the scratchy feel of his light stubble before he moves his hand to the base of his neck, fingers just sliding into his soft chestnut hair. Smiling, he inclines his head and brings his lips to Kurt's in a featherlight touch. He pulls away and watches as Kurt's eyes flutter closed, his lips pursed as he chases after the kiss before giving in and kissing him again, opening his mouth wider this time and letting their tongues join together. Kurt inhales sharply through his nose, as if this is what he needs, has been waiting for. Surging forward, he stands, never breaking the kiss as he falls into Blaine's lap and moans into his mouth.

"Wow," Blaine breathes when they finally part. "That was..."

"Kiss me again," Kurt demands, so he does. And they keep kissing; on and on until Blaine's hands are up and under Kurt's sweater, holding him tight and revelling in the touch of smooth skin and the taste of Kurt's mouth on his. Coming to his senses he pulls away, smiling up as Kurt looks down at him with wide, questioning eyes.

"There's something else I'd like to apologize for," he explains.

"You don't need to, but okay."

"I do, because it's important to us as a couple. I'd like to say sorry for...um...I don't know why I'm embarrassed," he laughs shyly as he rubs the back of his neck. "I'm sorry I haven't made love to you for so long," he rushes out as his cheeks flush scarlet.

"We've done stuff," Kurt tries.

"I've given you a few quick blowjobs," Blaine corrects. "You and I both know that's a poor substitute for our usual ways. And I know you know something is wrong," he carries on, holding up a hand to silence Kurt's protest, "because you haven't tried to initiate anything with me since that night I got defensive. You deserve better than that. I guess...I guess it's like...some people get stressed and it affects their appetite. Well...it affects my appitite for sex. But it's really important for you to know that it's not you."

"I know that," Kurt says calmly. "But I'm glad you said something. This is progress. Because now I know that if you're stressed you're not going to want sex as a distraction technique," he jokes.

"It's just...whenever I start to get aroused its like there's this nagging in the back of my brain telling me I shouldn't be, because I've got problems x,y and z to deal with and then...then it's gone and I can't think of anything else except those problems. I still want you."

"Blaine, I know," he says as he cuddles him close. "Like I said, we've done stuff. I've not gone without."

"Yes...but you also know I like to worship every inch of you," he smiles up at him. "The feeling of pressing my naked body to yours is...well there's nothing to better it, to be honest. That closeness, the time we take to be with one another."

"I do miss it," Kurt admits quietly. "And not just the act itself. I miss the intimacy, the loving tender touches that help us to connect with one another."

"You know..." Blaine starts as he allows his hands under Kurt's sweater once more. "It's still early. Do you have any plans for today?"

"My plans involve skipping my history of theatre class and hopefully spending the entire day naked with you," he smiles.

"You don't have any other classes? No dance?"

"Nope. Our teacher is out sick so they told us to practice the routine in our own time. Which I did last night with Joe."

"Did you tell Joe...?" Blaine starts nervously.

"No. I told him we were potentially fighting and I didn't want us to be angry at each other and say things we might regret. He didn't ask any questions. We went to the dance studios to rehearse, then we got pizza and watched a boys movie with his roommate."

"Their idea of a boys movie and ours probably differ slightly," Blaine laughs. "What did you watch?"

"Um...Die Hard?"

"Ooh. They're good. What number?"

"There's more than one?"

"Cute," Blaine laughs.

"So...did you have any plans for today?" Kurt asks him.

"I guess I need to call the studio, book in for as much work as I can. I could also try Nashville if you don't mind me potentially going away a few times."

"I don't mind, but can you call tomorrow? Let's just spend today...bonding."

"Bonding? Or bondage?"

"Either, or," Kurt grins as he leans down to kiss him fiercely. "Just take me to bed and worship me, please." He yelps as Blaine stands with him in his arms.

"Right here, right now," he grins back wickedly as he sits Kurt on the table and steps between his legs, crowding him backwards until he's nearly lying down, just slightly propped on his elbows and in complete shock as Blaine climbs on the table and straddles him. Kissing him heatedly, Blaine tugs on his hair, trailing his lips down to the pale expanse of Kurt's neck, nipping lightly while one hand runs over his toned stomach, feeling the muscles flutter under his touch.

Kurt stutters to life then, responding to Blaine's touch by thrusting his hips upward, moaning when he feels Blaine's fingers dipping into the back of his pants, skimming over the very top of his ass cheeks. Fumbling with Blaine's fly, he keeps one hand splayed out on the table, holding him up as he manages to work the fly open one handed and reach inside.

"Oh Jesus Christ, I'm never gonna last," Blaine moans as he works his pants and briefs off at lightning speed before tearing at Kurt's clothes in a frenzy. Finally he pulls his own t-shirt over his head and pushes Kurt back so he's lying flat on the table. Pressing himself on top, they both groan in pleasure at the feel of their bodies together at last, hard cocks lying flush against each other. When Blaine lifts his head to kiss Kurt once more he thrusts unwittingly into Kurt's groin causing them both to cry out and Kurt to dig his nails into Blaine's shoulders. And suddenly it becomes all about chasing that elusive release as they grind against one another desperately. It is dry and rough almost to the point of being painful, but the more aroused they become the more their precome mixes together, making them both slick as Kurt hooks one leg around Blaine's waist to draw him tighter against him.

"Close," he manages to get out but Blaine can't even form words as they come at the same time, bodies rocking together as they hold each other tightly, their heartbeats hammering in their chests. Kurt sinks back against the table, panting for breath but smiling as Blaine peppers his face with sweet kisses.

"I'm all sweaty," he protests weakly.

"My favorite kind of Kurt," Blaine grins as he licks a strip along his collar bone.

"Well I know that's bull because during the course of our relationship you've told me that fresh from the tub, sleepy, excited, angry, tipsy, possessive, shy and embarrassed Kurt are all your favorites."

"That's because you're my favorite," Blaine says, kissing him lightly before hopping from the table to fetch tissues. "So, I apologized for not taking the time to worship every inch of you," he says with a smile as he cleans Kurt up, "then I go and tear your clothes off, grind against you and come in seconds." He looks up, embarrassed. "Sorry. Again."

"Ha!" Kurt sits and wraps his arms around his neck. "You certainly don't need to be sorry for that. That was just what we needed. Now you can worship every inch of me, and then I will return the favor."

"Now?"

"Go on Blaine, you can do it," Kurt laughs as he kisses his forehead. "I'm sure those old bones still have some life in them," he teases.

Blaine stands, hands on hips and stares him down. "Are you making fun of me, Hummel?"

"Me?" Kurt asks innocently as he climbs from the table. "Never. I was taught to respect my elders."

"Mmmhmm," Blaine nods. "You should. Or I'll be forced to chase you."

"At your age? Exercise can be dangerous later in life, old man," Kurt says with a laugh which turns into a squeal when Blaine's eyes darken with mischief and he lunges toward him. Kurt tears naked through the apartment, diving over the back of the couch as Blaine follows hot on his heels. He gives a yell of surprise as Kurt runs across the coffee table, hopping onto a small side table and dodging Blaine's grabby hands before leaping gracefully across the room and heading to the music room.

Laughing loudly, Blaine follows, grinning smugly as he advances and corners Kurt, who tries to wrestle away from him.

"No! No!" he cries, locking his fingers with Blaine's and trying to keep his hands away.

"I need to teach you a lesson," Blaine grins, then suddenly twists, grabbing Kurt around his waist and hoisting him over his shoulder. "Bad boy," he says with a sharp smack to Kurt's butt as he carries him from the room.

"Ow! Where are you taking me, Blaine? What are you doing?...No!" he cries as he is dumped unceremoniously in the shower and Blaine turns the cold, pounding spray onto him. "Freezing, freezing, FREEZING!" Kurt yells as he tries to cower in the corner.

"Hot, hot, hot," Blaine says as he turns the dial to warm and clouds of steam fill the bathroom. Stepping under the spray, he takes Kurt's wrists and pins them above his head, against the cold tiles as he kisses him deeply. "So hot," he murmurs again. And this time he takes his time to work his way over all of Kurt's body, kissing, touching, tasting before washing him gently, shaking his head whenever Kurt tries to touch him in return. "I want to do this for you," he whispers as he lathers shampoo into Kurt's hair. "You can return the favor in a moment."

"Who says I want to?" Kurt huffs jokingly as he moves aside for Blaine to stand under the spray. "I was thinking more along the lines of hot sex."

But he washes him lovingly, ending at his toes before kissing his way slowly back up Blaine's body until they're eye to eye once more. "I should have done the kissing first," he grimaces. "My mouth tastes of soap."

"I wanna taste," Blaine says pulling him close so his tongue can explore. "Yeah, you taste of soap. But you're fucking gorgeous."

"Potty mouth."

"I know." They fall silent then, giving into their desires as their hands roam and tease until Blaine is braced against the shower wall, spray pounding against his back as Kurt pushes into him, holding his hips tight. The steamy bathroom is filled with the sound of wet skin slapping together and the blissful moans of pleasure from both men until Kurt comes hard, cock throbbing inside Blaine's heat, who follows soon after.

"Holy fuck I think you've killed me," Blaine says as he sinks to the cold floor.

"I think we should take a nap," Kurt tells him, reaching out his hand for Blaine to pull himself up. "Ready for more later."

"More?" Blaine asks, gratefully accepting the towel Kurt holds out for him. "Not more. I can't."

"You always say that, and then before you know it you're on all fours begging for my cock in your ass."

"Um..." Blaine stands in shocked silence, wincing as he feels himself trying to get hard once more. "Wow."

"Told ya!" Kurt laughs over his shoulder as he heads into the bedroom. They don't bother with clothes but crawl happily under the covers where Blaine rests his head on Kurt's chest, wrapping his arms around his waist and sighing happily.

"Blaine?"

"Hmm?"

"I'm sorry for taking off last night. I hope you know that I wasn't thinking of leaving you or anything."

"I know," he reassures.

"I just... I was angry...not about the situation, but because you hadn't spoken with me. I was hurt you had told Wes and not me, to be perfectly honest, and I didn't want to wait for you to come home and for us to end up in a huge fight. I didn't want to say or do anything either of us would regret."

"I understand that," Blaine says, shifting so he can look into his eyes. "And- since we're being honest- I'd be hurt if you talked with Rachel about something big and not with me. Which is why I'll try and get better. The thing is, throughout the years it's always been Wes who picks me up,and I guess I'm kind of reliant on that."

"I don't want you to feel you can't talk to him about stuff," Kurt says quickly. "I know that your friendship extends beyond that of just best friends from school."

"It does. But my bond with you is the most special thing I have, and I never want to lose that. To be blunt, I did think about telling you. But you were so good about cheering me up after the audition, so wonderfully sweet and caring and I just didn't want to hurt you like that. Then there was the simple fact that Wes was a voice over the phone...whereas you look at me with your eyes and..."

"Yes, I do have them, Blaine."

"Haha," Blaine says dryly. "You know what I mean, I know you do because you tell me it's the same for you."

"It is."

"I really am sorry, Kurt."

"And I really do forgive you, Blaine." He smiles as Blaine laughs and shakes his head before snuggling down once more.

Blaine wakes first a few hours later, stretching after the most contented sleep he's known in weeks. He takes himself quietly from the bed, pulling on a pair of shorts before moving to the living room where he sends several emails to previous clients and studios stating that he is available for work with immediate effect. He decides to make coffee, seeing as although it's past noon, for them it's really the morning. Piling toast onto a plate, he loads a tray with everything and heads back to the bedroom, unable to resist kissing Kurt's bare backside where it peeks deliciously from under the duvet.

"Told you you'd be horny," Kurt croaks as he cracks one eye open. "Do I smell coffee?"

"You do. Coffee and toast for my beautiful fiancé," Blaine grins, kissing Kurt's cheek as he props himself up against the pillows. "My god you're adorable when you've just woken up."

"You're staring," Kurt says as he reaches for the toast, but he's secretly thrilled, and smiles to himself at the way in which his heart beats fast in his chest. "You've still got it," he laughs quietly, almost disbelievingly.

"Got what? Who has?"

"You. You can still make me feel like we did when we very first met. Like a giddy fifteen year old who was just discovering what it was like to be admired, to be wanted. Who discovered what it was like to feel."

"Even though I'm so incredibly old?" he teases.

"I didn't upset you, did I? Earlier?"

"No! I told you that before. Stop worrying. I love that we tease one another."

"You're all happy again," Kurt acknowledges as it becomes his turn to stare. "I like that."

"I'm feeling so much more positive. I think...no. I know we will get through this. And hopefully I'll get another tenant soon. That's the biggest thing really. If it wasn't for that...and the ten thousand dollar engagement ring- we'd be fine."

"The...Blaine...what?!" Kurt shrieks. "You did not!"

"I did," he shrugs. "I had saved for half of it but then I saw that one and I couldn't resist. But you know what? Someday these rings won't be ours anymore, they'll be passed to our daughter or son. Heirlooms," he says as he admires Kurt's left hand.

"That makes me sad. Because it's talk of us dying."

"It will happen one day."

"I know, but even so. I don't like to think of my life without you, or vice versa."

"Then I'll live until I'm a hundred and fifteen," Blaine says decisively. "And when you're ready, we'll go together."

"Fool."

"Fool for you."

They stay that way for the rest of the day, only emerging from bed to make food or use the bathroom. At some point late in the afternoon, when they have slumped back underneath the covers and are curled on their sides staring into one another's eyes, Kurt leans forward and kisses Blaine's lips ever so softly. Fluttering heartbeats pick up pace once more, as slowly their kisses build. Eventually, when the sun has long since disappeared from the sky and the moon has come up, Blaine spoons himself behind Kurt and pushes gently inside, bringing them both toward their third orgasm of the day. No words are spoken during or after- except for one simple, whispered "I love you" from Blaine as he kisses behind Kurt's ear before they both fall deeply asleep.