Five Years Later
Part 10
Once rehearsals began, Sebastian was making the trip to Blaine's more often than Blaine was coming to his place but it was understandable. More than once Sebastian was there studying when Blaine returned home and there was no denying how happy Blaine was to see him. Seeing Blaine this happy and excited was certainly having a profound effect on Sebastian. While he could most certainly be selfish, in this moment it was all about Blaine. Each time he made a change to his set list he wanted to tell him or listen to a change they'd made in a song, Sebastian was more than happy to be a part of process. People had often told him a time would come in his life where seeing someone else happy would make him happy and this was certainly one of those cases. And while he'd pushed his own feelings aside once for Blaine's happiness, this time he was thrilled that he was such a huge part of Blaine's happiness.
Those that knew that had doubts about their relationship, were shocked to see how supportive and understanding Sebastian was as rehearsals were truly taking over Blaine's life. But with his own studies to keep him occupied, it wasn't as though Blaine had abandoned Sebastian. It was at this time in their relationship; Sebastian was the one coming to see him versus the other way around. They both knew relationships were about give and take. With the way things had been going, Thad reminded them both that they really needed to let the others know that they were a couple instead of them finding out the day of Blaine's performance. So with them finally being able to share a quiet Friday night together a week before Blaine's performance, they scheduled a video chat with the guys with some help from Thad before anyone headed out of the night.
Prior to getting comfortable on Sebastian's couch as Blaine had surprised Sebastian with his appearance in his apartment when he got home from class that day, it was clear they were both nervous. So Sebastian being him, brought Blaine onto his lap and they began to kiss. Once Blaine straddled his lap, the kissed deepened and he scooted closer if that was possible. But the moment Blaine felt his shirt being tugged out of his pants, he pulled back. "That's going to have to wait." Blaine said softly as he pressed his forehead against Sebastian's.
"I've missed you Blaine." Sebastian said with a gentle caress of his cheek.
"And I've missed you which is why I surprised you." Blaine told him as he played with the back of Sebastian's hair. "I'm going to show you just how much I appreciate how understanding you've been."
"I can't believe I'm saying this, but I'd be content just cuddling with you which is so, not me."
"Are you saying you don't want to have sex?"
"Hell no!" Once he responded, Blaine laughed. "I'm just saying I missed you in general B, not just the sex no matter how incredible it is."
"That is something I'm happy to hear as I've missed you too. While we've seen each other, we've both been a bit pre-occupied with everything that's going on in our lives." Blaine then leaned in for one more kiss before getting off of Sebastian's lap so they could both compose themselves after their little make-out session.
Their timing couldn't have been better as Blaine was straightening his shirt when each of their phones went off with a text from Thad telling them to log-in as everyone was on. When Sebastian went to log-in, he felt Blaine's hand move onto his thigh. "It's going to be okay B, relax." He then proceeded to continue and soon Blaine saw all of the guys faces pop onto the screen. It was pretty clear from their reactions Thad hadn't told them he'd be with Sebastian for this little talk. Jeff practically freaked upon seeing him and was the first to react before the others all began to say hello.
"Well, the missing link truly is hanging out with Smythe." Nick said with a smile. "It's good to see you Blaine as it has been way too long."
"It's good to see you guys too." Blaine said with a smile as Sebastian set his hand on top of Blaine's. "And just let me say, I'm so sorry things went the way they did. I never should've allowed it to happen."
"You can make it up to us by buying us a round of drinks when you see us." Beat told him with a smile that was so very him.
"That's something I can definitely do."
"Are you excited for next weekend?" Wes asked once the basics had essentially been covered. While there were so many things he wanted to talk to Blaine about, he was keeping in mind what Sebastian had said to Thad and wasn't going to push the issue. Blaine would open up to them, when the timing was right.
"I'm excited and nervous." Blaine told them as Sebastian gave his hand a squeeze.
"Nerves can be a good thing." Jeff told him. "We can wait to hear you. If that video Thad sent us all is any proof we're in for quite the treat."
"You are as he sounds incredible." Sebastian said rather proudly. "I've had the privilege to catch a few of his rehearsals with his band."
"That's high praise Blaine as Sebastian doesn't dish out compliments very often." Trent told him.
"That's something I do know." Blaine replied with a rather shy smile. "There is something you guys should know and I wanted you to find out before you come and see me next weekend. Just in case it might change your mind."
"And what would that be as it would take a lot for us not to come?" Nick asked with a smile and noticed Blaine take a deep breath before Sebastian looked at him with what could be considered a reassuring glance. "You can tell us anything Blaine."
"Sebastian and I are dating or to be exact, we're a couple."
"I knew it!" Jeff exclaimed excitedly as everyone took in what they were told. And while their friends were shocked it was nothing like the reaction Rachel had to seeing the two of them. "You could tell you were singing to someone special at the concert and I knew it wasn't Thad."
"Hey!" Thad replied while trying not to laugh as he knew exactly what Jeff meant.
"Sorry man, but the look Blaine had in his eyes was reminiscent of a look he had once before and it wasn't directed at you back then either."
"How long have you two been together?" Beat asked since it was clear Jeff and Thad could go back and forth for quite a while.
"A couple of months." Sebastian replied with a smile.
"Any particular reason you didn't tell us sooner?" Nick asked with a slight cock of his eyebrow, curious as to their reason for keeping quiet.
"Well, in the beginning we were getting used to being us." Blaine said and they all nodded as they understood. "And we really didn't want a lot of opinions about what felt right to us."
"Then once a few people knew, not all the reactions were positive." Sebastian added before kissing Blaine on the cheek.
"Thad." Wes said and the rest of the guys waited patiently for him to respond.
"It wasn't Thad." Blaine replied. "Rachel sort of freaked when she saw us together as she saw us before I had the chance to tell her."
"What exactly was happening to cause her to freak?" Jeff inquired. "Or was it just the sight of the two of you together?"
"They were kissing." Thad said. "I was there and it was quite the sight. That's not to mention Santana calling Sebastian, Mr. Grab-ass."
"Mr. Grab-ass?" Trent asked.
"It's a long story." Blaine replied. "We'll fill you in when we see you all."
"Now, before this goes any further what do the rest of you have to say as I'm sure you all have an opinion on this?" Sebastian asked. "And we'd rather hear it now than later."
"Are you guys happy?" Nick asked as he couldn't help but notice the smile on Jeff's face since the announcement. And had a feeling he'd be having a conversation with his best friend about this topic shortly after they were all done talking.
"We are." They responded which drew a few snickers from the guys with their unison answer.
"That's all that matters to me."
"Same here." Jeff added. "You both deserve to be happy and if that's with each other, more power to you."
"Thank you." Blaine replied with a smile. "That means a lot."
"Jeff's right." Wes said. "As long as the two of you are happy, that's all that matters. I just hope you both are in this with your eyes wide open."
"We are." Sebastian told him. "We both know quite a bit of time has passed and we're not the same people. But we've talked quite a bit and are essentially an open book to one another."
"Alright." Wes replied as it was pretty clear this was what they both wanted. And from the expressions on their faces, they both truly were happy together. "Now, are we going to have to get there early on Saturday night or will there be tables reserved for us?"
"Tables have already been reserved." Thad replied. "I spoke with the owner who is a friend of mine and Sebastian's the instant Blaine mentioned he'd like us all to be there. Also, so you don't have to wait in the crazy-assed line that's there on the weekends, you've all been put on the list."
"The list?" Nick asked.
"Yes, the list." Thad told him. "When you arrive, instead of getting in line, go straight to the door and you'll be let in. Essentially you've been put on the VIP list. Then once you're in, you'll be shown to the reserved tables near the stage."
"Sweet!" Jeff replied. "This is the same place we all went to last time we met up in the city, right?"'
"Yes." Sebastian said. "So you know the atmosphere is perfect for B considering what you saw from the video."
"B?" Trent said and Blaine smiled, resisting the urge to rest his head on Sebastian's shoulder.
"Don't push it Trent." Thad told him. "To the rest of us, they are still Blaine and Sebastian regardless of what they call each other."
"Is that your way of saying Blaine doesn't call him Sebastian like the rest of us?"
"Yes."
"But I do call him Sebastian once in a while." Blaine added. "I'm really grateful that you guys are coming, especially after everything."
"Blaine, you don't have to apologize as we all understand." Jeff told him. "The only thing we all wish is that when things got bad, you turned to us as we would've been there for you."
"Jeff's right, you shouldn't have had to go through everything alone." Nick added.
"I know, but you guys should know that basically no one knew how bad things really were as it was hard for me to admit how wrong I was. And well, I really didn't want to be told, I told you so."
"That's understandable." Wes said. "We all have our fears and worries which often get the best of us. Know we're all here should you ever want to talk to someone besides Sebastian."
"I know." Blaine replied before giving in and resting his head against Sebastian's shoulder. "And I really should've back then as going through that alone, sucked."
By the time the call ended, they'd been on for over an hour and had begun to slowly catch up on everything that had been going on. Once Sebastian closed his laptop, he wrapped his arms around Blaine and pulled him down onto the couch with him. "How are you feeling?" Sebastian asked as he looked up at Blaine who was lying above him.
"Relieved. I can't believe how it felt like no time had passed while we talked."
"That's what happens when close friends reconnect." Sebastian said before leaning up to give Blaine a kiss. "They really missed you B."
"I missed them, a lot. I realized how much once I saw everyone. They really haven't changed all that much."
"Not really." Sebastian told him. "Everyone swore Nick and Jeff were going to have separation anxiety once we all headed off to college since they didn't go to the same one."
"I could see that." Blaine said with a slight laugh. "Now, are you and Thad the only ones in Grad school?"
"No, but we can discuss that in the morning as I think we have more pressing matters to attend to." Sebastian said as he tightened his hold while wiggling his eyebrows.
"Is that so?"
"Yes as having you lying above me like this is have a profound effect on me Anderson."
"I can tell." Blaine replied with a smirk that Sebastian found completely sexy as it was such a change from what people would normally expect to see from Blaine. Since they'd gotten together, Sebastian learned there was way more to Blaine than meets the eye and he loved learning new facets of his personality and the same went for Blaine in regards to Sebastian.
While they had the night to themselves which entailed them not leaving the confines of Sebastian's apartment the entire night, the same couldn't be said for Saturday as Blaine had rehearsal. "Is this rehearsal going to run late or should I make dinner reservations?" Sebastian asked as he propped himself up in bed as Blaine got dressed.
"You can make reservations." Blaine replied. "This rehearsal is more about checking the levels at the bar in regard to sound. Are you sure you don't want to come with Bas?"
"I want to, but I'm not going to. As I told you in the shower, I want to be surprised when I see the whole show."
"Any plans while I'm gone?"
"I've got some school work that will keep me occupied while you're gone. That way I can devote all my attention to you once you return."
"You won't get any complaints from me in that regard." Blaine then walked over to the bed and sat down on the edge, nearest Sebastian. "I'll give you a call prior to coming back in case you decide to go out." He then leaned in for a kiss. "I'll miss you."
"And I'll miss you Killer." They then shared one more kiss before Blaine got up to head on his way. Once Blaine was gone, Sebastian sat up a bit as he was in no rush to get started on his homework. While he sat there, he realized how much things had changed in the time he and Blaine had gotten together. Hell, even his own Dad noticed a change in his demeanor whenever they spoke on the phone. For the first time he could honestly remember, his son sounded honestly happy and he couldn't wait to find out more about the person behind it.
While Sebastian relaxed, Blaine made his way to the bar and was relieved that he'd gotten there before the rest of his band had. He was beyond grateful that Stephen had no problem with them coming by to get familiar with the venue prior to the performance. The fact that he was so open to it, made Blaine feel even more at ease about the upcoming performance. And being familiar would enable him to put on the best performance possible. Once inside, Blaine tossed his coat aside before grabbing his guitar and getting comfortable on one of the stools on stage as he waited for his band to arrive. As he waited, Blaine started to play one of the new songs he'd been working on as it was something he was rather proud of.
"Sounds good Blaine." The voice caused Blaine to look up and stop playing. He immediately spotted Morgan, his bass player standing before him.
"Thanks, it's still a work in progress." He replied before getting up and placing his guitar on the stool. "Have you been here before?" He asked as he stepped towards the edge of the stage.
"No, but I've heard a lot about it." She replied as she set her bass down so she could take her coat off. "You do know quite a few people are shocked to hear this is where we are playing, right?"
"Yea, I've heard that as well on my way to and from class. I don't know whether to take that as a compliment or shock though."
"It's probably a little bit of both combined with some jealousy." While she spoke, she got her bass out and brought it up on stage. "Is Sebastian coming by today?"
"No, he's staying at home to study today. Law school keeps him rather busy. Plus he wants to be surprised when he hears us next weekend. While he's heard most of the songs, he hasn't heard the whole show put together."
"That's sweet." Morgan said as she sat down on one of the stools. "By chance, is that new song about him?"
"What makes you think that?" Blaine replied as he sat back down as she taken one of the stools beside where he'd set his guitar.
"Call it a hunch. Am I correct?"
"It's certainly inspired by him, that's for certain."
"When do we get to hear the rest of it?"
"When it's finished." Blaine replied just as the others came walking in.
"What are you working on now Blaine?" Todd asked with a smile as they walked closer.
"Blaine's writing another song and this one is inspired by Sebastian." Morgan replied which caused Blaine to blush slightly due to her tone.
"Where is lover boy?" Talia asked as Todd set her keyboard case down since he was using the house drum kit for this rehearsal.
"Home studying." Blaine replied. "But he sends his regards to you all."
"And here I was hoping we could get him to join you for a number like he did during rehearsal a couple weeks ago." Justin said as he set his guitar case down so he could get comfortable as it was certainly warmer inside than out. "Speaking of, are we still doing the acoustic version of that number?"
"We are." Blaine told him. "The only reason we didn't play it when Bas was around was because I want it to be a surprise to him."
"So, that number does have significance to you." Talia said as they began to set up.
"It does. When he sang it back in high school it was in that moment I realized there was way more to him than even I ever thought."
"What made you think that?" Morgan asked as everyone got set-up.
"There was something in his eyes."
"And what eyes they are." Once Morgan spoke, Talia agreed as the guys all shook their heads, even Blaine though he wasn't going to deny how right she was.
While this was all going on, Santana was only now waking after another late shift at work. But she certainly wasn't going to complain as she made a killing in tips every Friday night she worked. One of the other bartenders always got a kick out of how Santana had no problem flirting with guy and girl alike. Now that Rachel had for the most part accepted the fact that Blaine and Sebastian were together after what could've been a train wreck when she called Sam, life was certainly less stressful between them. After putting her robe on as it was certainly chilly that morning, she headed out to get herself some coffee while she figured out what she was going to do that day.
The last thing she expected when she walked into the main living area of the loft was to see Kurt sitting on the couch with Rachel who had a deer in headlights look on her face. Upon noticing that look, it was clear to Santana he had dropped by and that Rachel hadn't invited him over. After saying hello, Santana went straight to getting a cup of coffee otherwise there was no way she was going to be cordial. Once she poured her cup, she was about to add some cream when she looked at their calendar hanging on the fridge. A soft sigh escaped her lips as Rachel had decorated the next Saturday for Blaine's big show so neither would forget. For everyone's sake, she could only hope Rachel had gotten Kurt's drink and he hadn't walked into their kitchen.
"So, what brings you by so ungodly early?" Santana asked as she got comfortable in the chair opposite the couch.
"It's not that early Santana." Kurt replied as he looked at her as she sipped her coffee.
"Considering even Rachel is still in her PJs, it's early." Santana said. "So, what are you doing here?"
"Aren't I allowed to just come by and say hello?"
"It depends as you rarely ever come by without a reason. I mean, we barely saw you, then once Blaine dropped your ass we saw you all the freaking time." While it was blunt, even Rachel had to stifle a giggle at Santana's response as she was spot on. And Kurt's reaction to it was rather priceless.
"You saw me while Blaine and I were married." Kurt told her. "You saw both of us."
"Is that before or after you turned him into the shell of the person he became?"
"Santana." Rachel said as she looked across at her.
"I'm sorry, but it's true and no one can deny that Blaine changed during that marriage." Santana then cocked her head to the side. "That better not be what I think it is Hummel." Rachel then looked at Kurt and shook her head. "I saw that Berry, so I'm not imagining that he's still wearing his wedding ring."
"Kurt, we talked about this. Take the ring off. There is no way you're going to be able to move on as long as you're wearing it."
"Well, a ring on his finger didn't stop Blaine from doing what he did."
"Oh my God, Blaine didn't fucking cheat on you!" Santana exclaimed as she threw her hands in the air. Luckily she'd set her coffee cup down previously. "And if that's what you think, why the hell are you telling Rachel that you think there is the slightest chance the two of you could work things out?"
"You told her?" Kurt said as he looked at Rachel.
"Yes, I told her and she agrees with me Kurt, there is no chance. If you think about it, your marriage to Blaine was over long before he moved out and filed for divorce." Rachel told him. "So, I think it's best of you took the ring off and tried to move on."
"Rachel, he was a huge part of my life. I can't just move on."
"You should've been moving on once you separated." Santana stated. "I mean, it was clear to everyone once Blaine moved out it was over. You can't tell us you aren't happier as the two of you were fighting all the bloody time."
"As hard as this might be for you to understand, I'm not happier as I miss him. And since you and Rachel talk, you know I still love him."
"Sorry to break it to you, but that ship has sailed." Santana said before getting up. "Rach, I'm going to go shower but could we talk in private before I do." Rachel nodded before excusing herself to go follow Santana across the loft. Once Santana was certain Kurt had stayed put she looked at Rachel. "You need to move the calendar Rach."
"I know. Trust me, I was not thrilled when I opened the door this morning and saw him standing there. Don't get me wrong, he's one of my best friends but right now is not a good time. And the more Blaine moves on, the harder it's going to get."
"So you haven't told him?"
"No, I haven't. It's as Blaine and Sebastian said, what's going on with Blaine's life is none of Kurt's business anymore."
"Not to mention he'll go ballistic once he finds out the two are together." Santana said. "I mean, I'd bet anything he'd instantly presume the supposed cheating Blaine was doing was with Sebastian."
"If there was any doubt about it." Rachel said before glancing over her shoulder to make sure Kurt was staying put. "But we know that wasn't the case as there was no way Blaine would've been able to hide that smile he's been sporting since the two got together."
"He is obnoxiously happy, isn't he?" Santana said with a smile. "He deserves it."
"Agreed. Now, you go take your shower while I try to get rid of Kurt before he sees the calendar. Especially since the last time we saw Blaine and Sebastian they said a bunch of the Warblers were going to be there that night."
"That could be entertaining."
"Santana."
"I'm sorry, but it would be. But like you, I don't want anything ruining Blaine's big moment and that most definitely would." Santana then gave her a hug before going to take her shower. On Rachel's walk back towards the couch, she took a deep breath to compose her thoughts. Knowing Blaine was moving on with his life while Kurt was rather stuck for the moment wasn't easy to be between. But Santana did have a point in that Kurt should've started to move on when they were separated, especially considering the way he treated Blaine during the divorce.
"Sorry about that." Rachel said as she sat back down, tucking her feet beneath her.
"Why, it's just Santana being Santana." Kurt replied. "Little did I know she'd be sticking up for Blaine as much as she does. I never thought they were that close."
"Being close isn't what this is about Kurt. It's about the fact that Blaine started to move on with his life once the two of you separated. You need to take that ring off and accept the fact that you and Blaine are done."
"Have you seen him since the last we spoke about him?"
"I have, a few times actually."
"How is he?"
"He's at a really good place in his life."
"Is he seeing anyone?"
"Kurt, does it really matter if he is or isn't?"
"To me it does as we've only been divorced for a few of months."
"Yet you were separated for over a year prior"
"Rachel."
"Kurt, I'm not going to share what I know about Blaine's life with you as it's none of your business anymore."
"Is that what he told you?"
"It is, but he's right. What he does with his life is no concern of yours anymore. It would probably be best if you didn't even think about what he's doing."
"Don't you mean who?"
"Kurt."
"I'm sorry. Now, on a completely different subject, I was invited out with some friends next Saturday and I was curious if you wanted to join us."
"Why?"
"There are going to be some single, straight guys joining us and I thought you might be interested."
"As tempting as that sounds, I'm going to have to decline as I have plans with Santana next Saturday."
"Oh." Kurt replied, slightly shocked that Rachel and Santana were going out together.
"Why are you so surprised?"
"Do I sound surprised?"
"Yes and you also look it. I mean, Santana and I do go out quite a bit Kurt. We're friends as well as roommates."
"It's just; you're both into such different things."
"Yet we have common interests as well. But thank you for inviting me, I appreciate it. Now, you should probably get going."
"Does Santana not appreciate me being here?"
"She's crabby in the mornings, you know that, especially when she worked the night before. But I'm saying you need to go as I need to start getting ready as well as I have plans for today as well."
"Alright." Kurt then stood as did Rachel. "If your plans change, give me a call." He then leaned in and kissed her on the cheek. "Bye Rachel!"
"Bye!" Once Kurt walked out the door, Rachel went to lock it before leaning against the wall and sighing in relief. Being friends with the both of them was certainly starting to get harder. She could only hope that Kurt would slowly begin to move on and stop caring about what was happening with Blaine's life.