Five Years Later
Part 18
After eating way too much for dinner, Blaine and Sebastian enjoyed a relaxing evening on the couch once everything was cleaned up and put away. While they had that one little hiccup, things had gone rather well and they had to admit, everything turned out really well. Considering what they'd been doing prior to dinner, the only thing either of them wanted to do once they got in bed that night was to curl up and go to sleep. Something they'd gotten quite used to and neither were looking forward to things going back to the way they'd been once break was over.
The next morning when Sebastian rolled over in bed, he was a bit disappointed to see that it was empty beside him. He glanced towards the bathroom, but since it was dark he looked towards the clock to see what time it was. But before he could compile a coherent thought, Blaine came walking back into the bedroom with two cups of coffee. "No fair letting me wake to an empty bed." Sebastian grumbled as Blaine got back in after handing him his cup.
"Sorry, but I couldn't sleep. But I brought coffee back with me." Blaine said with a smile, hoping to soften Sebastian reaction. Sebastian looked at him before smiling and taking a sip of his coffee. "You like?"
"You put Courvoisier in it."
"I did." Blaine replied proudly. "I hope you still like it in your coffee."
"I love it. You remembered."
"It's a fact that's rather hard to forget. You were so frustrated that day when they wouldn't oblige to your request." While Blaine spoke, Sebastian sat up a bit before taking another sip prior to giving Blaine a kiss. It was pretty obvious that Blaine remembering that little fact meant more to Sebastian than he would ever admit. "Since we're both now up, what would you like to do today?"
"You don't have rehearsal?" Sebastian asked as he wrapped an arm around Blaine.
"Nope as we felt good where we left things on Wednesday, plus the girls are taking part in all the craziness as they won't have much time to shop once school starts again. Not to mention doing a bit of decorating." Blaine replied as he pulled the covers up around them. "But if you have things you want to do without me as it sounds like you thought I had rehearsal, I could find something to do. Maybe I'll head back to my place and decorate a bit." When Sebastian didn't say anything, Blaine glanced back at him. "What is it Bas?"
"If you don't mind, we're going to go shopping today Killer."
"I don't, but do you mind telling me what for?"
"Only if you promise not to laugh at me."
"I remember saying something similar to you two nights ago."
"You did. Now, you won't laugh, right?"
"I won't. So, what are we going shopping for Sebastian?"
"Christmas decorations as I have none."
"Excuse me?"
"I don't have any Blaine." Sebastian told him. "My first year here, I went home and well, decorating really wasn't on my mind. Then from there, I spent most of my breaks on vacation. I never felt compelled to decorate."
"You don't need to do it on my behalf Bas."
"I want to do it B. Since I'm going to be home and well, we'll be celebrating together, it's the right thing to do. No reason we should only be surrounded by the Christmas spirit at your place." Sebastian then set his coffee cup down beside him before straddling Blaine's lap which caused Blaine to look up at him. "What are you looking at?" Sebastian asked as he felt Blaine's hands go to his hips once he set his coffee down as well.
"You as this is a bit of a change for us as I'm usually the one on your lap." Blaine said, his voice a bit deeper than usual as he began to knead at Sebastian's skin. "Not that I'm complaining as I could certainly get used to this. What brought it on?"
"I wanted a change of perspective." Sebastian told him as he leaned in a bit and soon Blaine could feel his warm breath over his ear. And that started to have quite the effect on him which didn't go unnoticed by Sebastian who scooted a bit closer. "Want something Killer?"
"There are a few things I want, but now isn't the time."
"Are you turning me down Blaine?"
"I wouldn't say I'm turning you down, just postponing things."
"May I ask why?"
"If you truly want to go shopping for decorations, we should get a move on before things get picked over. I mean, considering how the rest of your home is decorated Bas, just anything won't do."
"You're right. But promise me something."
"What."
"That we pick this up when we get back."
"I wouldn't want it any other way."
It wasn't long till they were out on their way to deal with the crazy crowds that were everywhere. Since most of this was rather new to Sebastian, he had no issue with Blaine taking control. Considering the size of Sebastian's apartment, Blaine felt they needed to get a tree first as that would help set the tone for everything else. It would also give them a better idea of how many ornaments they needed to buy. Once they were in the store, Blaine was surprised as Sebastian headed straight for some of the biggest trees. While he wanted a real one, the building association forbids them as they were a fire hazard so reluctantly; he was purchasing an artificial one.
With the lofty ceilings Sebastian had, Blaine smiled when he saw him looking at ten foot trees that would look perfect. Aside from the height, he was also looking at some of the fullest ones they had. Thankfully since this was the city, Sebastian was thrilled to find delivery was an option and that they weren't going to have to figure out how they were getting it back to Sebastian's. While a salesman went to check to see whether they had the tree Sebastian was interested in stock, he walked up behind Blaine and wrapped his arms around him. "I went I bit overboard, didn't I?"
"I wouldn't have expected anything less." Blaine replied as he leaned back. "Just don't laugh when you see the little tree I have for my place."
"I'd never laugh. Do you see anything else you like?"
"I see quite a bit that I like that would look great considering how your place is decorated."
"Show me."
While Blaine was showing Sebastian what he found, they received a call from Thad who was checking in on them after the holiday. It seemed he didn't have a lot of faith in their cooking skills and was hoping they were both feeling alright. Needless to say, Sebastian didn't take too kindly to that, but didn't go overboard with his comments since they were out in public. By the time the salesman had returned to let Sebastian know they had the tree he wanted in stock, he and Blaine had essentially filled their cart to the brim with everything they could possibly need to get started.
Shopping like this was something that was so different for Blaine compared to how he'd gone about getting things for his apartment the previous year, but considering the size difference between their places, it made sense. While they waited for everything to be rung up, Blaine kept glancing up at Sebastian who wasn't even flinching as everything came across the screen. Then once the final total was given, Blaine had to brace himself where he stood while Sebastian nonchalantly handed over his credit card as everything was getting bagged. With a delivery truck heading out in the next hour, the two decided it was best to head back to Sebastian's and wait to continue their shopping.
With multiple bags in hand, Sebastian hailed a cab as he really didn't want them dealing with everything he'd bought on the subway. So after filling the trunk of the cab with bags, they got settled and were on their way. "Are you back to normal?" Sebastian asked as he took ahold of Blaine's hand causing him to look at him. "Don't be surprised that I saw your reaction when she gave me the total."
"Was it that noticeable?"
"Not really, but like you said, I wouldn't be me if I didn't go overboard. Plus, my boyfriend has expensive taste." The smile that crept to Sebastian's face as he spoke along with the wink he gave stopped Blaine from getting defensive about the comment. "How long do you think it's going to take us to put up everything we bought?"
"A few hours at least." Blaine replied with a smile. "But nothing says we have to get it all done today."
"Alright, but it's getting done this weekend as I know come Monday things go back to normal."
"Is that your way of saying you're not looking forward to us not being able to spend so much time together?"
"It is and things are going to get crazy for me, I know that. So, this is a heads up."
"Well, if you can't travel like you've been, I'll have to pick up the slack."
"Blaine."
"Sebastian, you don't know how much you doing most of the travel this past month meant to me, truly. But now that we have quite the repertoire under our belts, things won't be as crazy though I'll still be rehearsing quite a bit."
"I wouldn't have expected anything else B and, it was my pleasure."
By the time the tree had been delivered and they had everything unpacked, Blaine sat back as Sebastian tried to figure out which of two spots he preferred for the tree. While he did that, Blaine was texting back and forth with Jeff who informed him that he'd run into his parents while he'd been out shopping. And it seemed that the Andersons had quite a bit to say about Blaine's new boyfriend. So when Jeff informed them that he knew Sebastian as he'd gone to Dalton, they were a bit shocked as Blaine hadn't mentioned that fact to them. When Sebastian glanced over his shoulder and saw Blaine shaking his head he was quick to join him on the couch. "Did you decide?"
"I did and I agree with you that it should go in the corner as it'll be able to be seen when you walk in the door as well as multiple angles outside." Sebastian said as he wrapped an arm around him. "We'll only have to move that chair." He then glanced at Blaine who seemed to be in his own little world. "Is everything alright as I saw you shaking your head?"
"Yes. Jeff saw my parents at the mall. They started talking about my handsome boyfriend and were a bit shocked that Jeff knew you already. But then he told them you went to Dalton."
"That never came up on Thanksgiving."
"It did not."
"B."
"Yes."
"Do they know who threw that slushie that caused you to have surgery?"
"No." The instant he responded, Blaine felt Sebastian tense beside him. "Relax Bas. They know it had something to do with ill-feelings between the Warblers and the New Directions and that I happened to get caught in the middle."
"Still."
"Sebastian, my Dad was surprisingly pretty calm about everything after I got out of surgery. The two of us talked and well, he understands how sometimes a prank can get out of hand. And since I was going to be okay, he let me decide how I wanted to handle things."
"Blaine."
"Sebastian, I forgave you a long time ago. And I know I wasn't the intended target."
"It doesn't make what I did any less forgivable."
"I'm okay." Blaine told him before moving onto his lap. "It was a prank that got out of control. Forget about it Bas." Having Blaine on his lap at this moment, didn't stop Sebastian's mind from going into hyper drive. He couldn't help but wonder what ever became of that tape Santana had made that had him confessing to putting rock salt in the slushie. While it seemed Blaine had no clue about it, it was certainly something he was going to bring up with Santana when a moment presented itself. "Sebastian, you with me?" Blaine asked as he placed his hands on Sebastian's shoulders. "You seemed to space out on me."
"I'm here, very much here." Sebastian said as he wrapped his arms around Blaine, bringing him closer. "And while it's tempting to throw you down onto this couch and have my way with you, we have a tree to put up."
"You're right, we do. So let's get a move on it so you can have your way with me."
"Deal." By the time they had the tree completely decorated along with putting up everything else they'd brought home they both collapsed onto the couch. Considering how long it had taken them, it was now dark out, yet the room had a soft glow to it because of the tree. "What do you think?" Sebastian asked as he ran his fingers through Blaine's curls as he had his head resting on his chest.
"It looks beautiful."
"We do good work, don't we?"
"We do. What did your parents think since you sent them a picture?"
"They loved it. My Mom said it was about time I decorated for the holidays. Also, she thinks you're cute." Blaine glanced up at him. "Hey, I know it's not your favorite word but that's what she said."
"How so?"
"You were in the picture I sent them. She said she could see why I seem so smitten."
"You, Sebastian Smythe are smitten with little old me?" Blaine said innocently as he batted his lashes at him causing Sebastian to laugh. Even with as much time as they'd been spending together, there were moments like this that Blaine still caught Sebastian off-guard. While Blaine was usually pretty serious, he certainly had his silly moments as well. And over the months, that side of him seemed to be showing its head more and more which Sebastian loved. "Bas?"
"Yes, I'm smitten with you Blaine Anderson." Sebastian replied as he wrapped his arms tightly around Blaine. "Are you having rehearsal tomorrow morning?"
"I am, but it shouldn't be long as we're only heading over to set levels for the new numbers. Are you going to come with me?"
"You want me too?"
"Why wouldn't I? I was thinking we could go out for breakfast first."
"Only because of what Jeff said as there is that new number I'll really like. I guess I thought it was a surprise."
"It is, but it's along the same lines as one of the others so we won't have to play it." Blaine then moved from beside Sebastian so that he was lying above him. "This is mainly about some of the originals we're playing versus the covers."
"Since that's the case, I'd love to come with. Plus it'll give me the opportunity to talk with Stephen."
"About?"
"Making sure Hunter's girlfriend was put on the list, even though I can't see the doorman giving Hunter a hard time with as often as we're there."
"Okay." Blaine replied before giving Sebastian a kiss. "What do you say we take this party somewhere a bit more comfortable?"
"Sounds perfect."
When the alarm went off on Saturday morning, Sebastian reluctantly sat up in bed as did Blaine. Sleeping in the last few days had certainly done a number on them both. But as they'd discussed the previous evening, they might as well get used to it as Monday would be there before they knew it. So after going to take a shower they were soon on their way to breakfast. By the time they'd finished, it was time for them to head to the bar. Neither could believe where the morning had already gone, but didn't give it much thought.
On their approach to the doors, they saw Morgan and Todd walking towards them. "Ready to blow them away again tonight Blaine?" Morgan asked after giving them each a hug.
"Always." Blaine replied as they headed inside.
"Have you spoken to your paramour?" Sebastian asked which made Todd laugh.
"Yes, I've already spoken to Jeff this morning." She replied as they headed towards the stage. "His flight departs in a couple of hours."
"How'd the great cooking experience go?" Todd asked as they all took their coats off.
"Surprisingly well." Blaine replied as he put his coat on the back of a chair. "But we made a bit much."
"But we're not complaining." Sebastian said as Blaine unpacked his guitar. "It made dinner a breeze last night."
"Good." Morgan replied. "Talia and I figured it went well as neither of us got an SOS call."
"That's because we called my Mom." Blaine said with a laugh. "I missed a word when jotting down one of her recipes which caused a bit of an issue."
"What issue?" Talia asked as she and Justin came walking up behind them. "Everything okay for tonight?"
"It's fine." Blaine told her. "We were discussing Thanksgiving. Since you're all now here, how was everyone's?"
"I ate too much." Justin replied. "I'm pretty certain my Mom thinks I don't eat enough while I'm at school."
"And here I thought only my Mom was that way." Todd said. "She kept telling me to eat more."
"I know that must've been such the burden." Morgan said with a laugh. "As we all know how much you hate doing so." Both of the guys just looked at her as Sebastian shook his head. The more time he spent around Blaine's friends, he could understand why Kurt didn't like them as they were a rather free-spirited group. When he spotted Stephen across the way, Sebastian got up from his seat and gave Blaine a kiss before walking over. "Is everything okay?"
"Yea, he's just checking on some things for tonight." Blaine replied as they got set-up. "You should know by now, Bas doesn't leave much to chance."
"Especially when it concerns you." Talia said and the others agreed. "Everyone can see he only wants what's best for you Blaine." Blaine couldn't help but smile as it was nice knowing they could all see that part of Sebastian.
With the bar being rather empty, Stephen saw Sebastian come walking towards him. "Morning."
"Morning." Sebastian replied as they took seats at the bar. "I'm really glad you're here this morning."
"One would be surprised if they really knew what it took to run this place." Stephen told him. "I've got quite a few deliveries coming in this morning. Plus I wanted to make sure everything is set for Blaine tonight."
"That's what I wanted to talk to you about."
"Okay, but Thad talked to me awhile back. Is there something else going on?"
"What do you mean?" Sebastian asked.
"Nothing. What do you need Sebastian?"
"I wanted to make sure Hunter's girlfriend was on the list for tonight."
"She is. Brad put her awhile back."
"Speaking of, where is he?"
"Sleeping as he was here through close last night as one of my bartenders called in sick."
"Got it. Now, what did Thad talk to you about?" Sebastian asked after looking over at stage as Blaine had begun to sing. "Does it concern Blaine?"
"You should probably talk to Thad about this Sebastian."
"I'm talking to you Stephen, what's going on?" By this point, it was pretty clear to Stephen that Sebastian was concerned. And given what Thad had told him, he realized he'd already said too much but there really was no going back. "Stephen."
"Don't shoot the messenger, alright." Sebastian nodded. "Thad asked me to make sure security kept an eye on the stage when Blaine performs."
"Why?"
"Blaine's ex-husband showed up here the last time Blaine performed." With those words, Sebastian's eyes bugged out. "He'd been waiting in line but didn't get in to see him perform. But I guess he bumped into your friends as he was entering and they were leaving that night."
"Son of a bitch!" Sebastian's voice was loud enough that everyone on stage instantly looked in their direction. Sebastian waved his hand as he didn't want them to worry as he could only hope they heard his voice and not what he said. But since Blaine didn't come over, he assumed that was the case. "This is not what he needs Stephen."
"That's what Thad told me. So my guys will keep an eye on Blaine when he performs in case his ex-husband shows up again." While he spoke, he could see that Sebastian was thinking. "I won't let anything happen to Blaine or his band Sebastian."
"I trust you. I'm just pissed that our friends didn't tell us that they saw him."
"They probably didn't tell you because you guys were riding an adrenaline high when you left here that night and didn't want to ruin it." Sebastian just looked at him as he was still trying to rein in his emotions. While their friends hadn't told them, he knew he had to tell Blaine which wasn't going to be easy. "I know I wouldn't have."
"I understand that, I do, especially since this wasn't a quick divorce. And they are all thrilled to see B so happy. It's just…"
"You don't want Blaine worrying that his ex will show up and ruin his moment."
"Exactly." Stephen took a good look at Sebastian before looking at the stage where Blaine seemed to be in his own little world.
"Do you think it's possible for you to get a picture of his ex, a current one?"
"Sure, why?"
"Well, I'm not one to blacklist people from my bar. But if I have a picture of him, security will know if they truly need to step things up in regards to Blaine should he show."
"You'd do that?"
"I would. And should any problems arise, his ex won't ever be allowed in again, regardless if Blaine is performing or not."
"Thank you."
"You don't need to, as it's smart business." Stephen told him. "The last thing I need is a scene. Plus if the buzz around here is anything to go by since people know Blaine is performing again, tonight's going to be crazier than last time."
"Really?"
"Yes. I've got extra bartenders and waitresses on hand for tonight as it's pretty much a given we're going to be closing the doors again."
"Have you thought about opening up the balcony?"
"I have and it's going to be. Last time I could've, but I didn't have the staff on hand to do so. But tonight, I do." While he spoke, Stephen smiled. "He really is talented Sebastian."
"He certainly is." Sebastian replied proudly. "They got a bunch of new stuff for tonight as well."
"Originals or covers?"
"Some of both, but they've put their token twist on the covers like last time."
"Even more reason to look forward to tonight." Stephen had just finished speaking one a member of his staff came up to him letting him know another delivery had arrived. "I need to go Sebastian, but try and get that picture for me."
"I will." Once Stephen walked away, Sebastian took out his phone to give Santana a call as he really didn't want to have this sort of conversation with Rachel. While they'd certainly warmed up to one another, he knew Santana would understand where he was coming from with a lot less explaining. That feeling proved to be correct as Santana said she had no problems getting the picture for him after she apologized for not telling him they saw Kurt. But much as Stephen had said and Sebastian had agreed with, none of their friends wanted to ruin the moment for Blaine. Once the air had been cleared Santana had asked Sebastian if he was going to tell Blaine about Kurt which he told her he was. Blaine had a right to know so that he didn't get blindsided should Kurt make another appearance.
While she knew it wasn't going to be easy for him, Santana respected the fact that Sebastian was going to tell Blaine even though he knew he might not take the news well. After finishing his call, it wasn't long after his phone went off as Santana had sent a copy of a recent picture Rachel had taken with Kurt. Thankful that he now had the picture, Sebastian was able to sit back and listen to Blaine and his band rehearse. Even with the bit of news he'd been given having made him feel a bit stressed, Sebastian was able to relax as he listened. If anyone ever asked him precisely what it was about listening to Blaine sing that had such a profound effect on him, he wouldn't be able to answer as he didn't know. All he knew was that he could honestly listen to him all the time.
By the time they finished up, Sebastian headed towards the stage as he'd made a point of giving them their space to do their thing. It had also allowed him to make a few phone calls as he knew he needed to let the guys know he knew before that evening. Blaine had only set his guitar in the stand when he felt Sebastian come up behind him and wrap his arms around him. "What did you think?" Blaine asked as he glanced over his shoulder at him.
"You guys sounded great." Sebastian replied before leaning over a bit more so he could kiss Blaine on the cheek. "No doubt you guys are going to captivate the crowd once again. Stephen is even opening up the balcony tonight after what happened last time."
"Really?" Justin asked as he took a seat on one of the stools opposite where Blaine was standing.
"Yes." Sebastian replied. "It seems there is quite the buzz going on about the fact that you guys are performing again."
"Shows people have excellent taste." Morgan said with a smile as she set her bass in the stand. "Also shows we were right when we told our classmates if they wanted to see us tonight, to come early."
"True." Blaine said. "Since that's the case, I recommend we all take it easy for the rest of the day so we have plenty of energy later."
"That's actually a good idea." Talia replied. "Last thing any of us want is to be dragging this evening."
It wasn't much longer after that, did everyone grab their coats so they could get going. Once they were outside, Sebastian was quick to hail a cab as he really didn't want to deal with the subway at that time. While he hadn't said anything, Blaine could tell that something had clearly happened from the time they arrived to that moment. But since they were in a cab, he knew it wouldn't be long till the two of them could talk about whatever was going on. When they arrived back at Sebastian's building, Blaine quickly felt his hand in Sebastian's as they headed inside. If he didn't know better, it seemed that Sebastian had taken on quite the protective nature.
Once they were back inside Sebastian's apartment and their coats were hung up, Sebastian took ahold of Blaine's hand once more and led him to the couch. "What's going on Bas?" Blaine asked as Sebastian was situated so that he was looking directly at Blaine and still had his hand in his.
"We need to talk B." When Sebastian spoke, he felt Blaine tense up beside him so he scooted a bit closer. "Before your mind goes wandering, we're okay." Those simple words accompanied by a smile from Sebastian had a soothing effect on Blaine who soon relaxed. Upon noticing this, Sebastian placed his other hand on Blaine's lap. "I need to tell you something and…I'm not quite sure how you're going to take it."
"Just tell me and we'll deal with it." Blaine replied as he placed his hand over Sebastian's which was on his lap.
"Alright. When you performed at the bar last month our dear friends ran into Kurt as they were leaving."
"Excuse me?" Blaine said, slightly shocked by what he'd been told. But he was much calmer than Sebastian had anticipated.
"You heard me. When I went to speak with Stephen about Hunter's girlfriend, he thought I was coming to talk to him about the same thing Thad had."
"Wait, so everyone that came last time saw Kurt?"
"No." Sebastian said. "The only one that came face to face with him was Nick, though Rachel instantly recognized his voice."
"Why didn't they tell us?"
"From what Stephen said before I even talked to anyone, he presumed it was to not ruin the mood you were in after the show. And that was confirmed once I spoke with Santana."
"Wait, I'm confused."
"The whole thing is a bit confusing B. The general gist I got from Santana is that Kurt didn't recognize Nick. He got pissed because the two bumped into each other."
"So, he didn't hear me."
"Correct. Also, he has no clue you performed as Santana and Rachel played detective about what Kurt knew of that night. All he told Rachel was that he went to a bar with some friends and had to wait as the musical act had them at capacity. Though, he does know the guy that performed was named Blaine. But has no clue that it was you."
"Figures." Blaine muttered as he settled against Sebastian who promptly wrapped his arms around him. "He never thought I'd make it. Now, what did Thad talk with Stephen about?"
"He asked that security keep an eye on you the next time you perform in case Kurt shows."
"That was sweet of him. For as little as he knows, he knows that the divorce wasn't pretty."
"It certainly wasn't."
"Why did you call Santana?"
"Stephen wanted a recent picture of Kurt to show security so they knew who they needed to keep an eye out for."
"Okay."
"You are taking this way better than I expected Killer."
"I realized shortly after I left him that we could run into each other in the city. There is nothing I can do about it. All I can hope for is that we can both act like adults. I just didn't think it would be this soon after everything was finalized."
"Or that you'd be dating me at the time." Sebastian said with a smile that Blaine could see out of the corner of his eye. "That could be a bigger issue."
"You think." Blaine replied with a laugh. "Seeing the two of us together would be quite the shock to his system. It would probably also start him in on a tangent."
"About?"
"I'm pretty certain seeing us together he'd assume you were who he thought I was cheating on him with."
"If he does, so be it. We know it's not true as do our friends."
"But…"
"Blaine, he can say whatever he wants but nothing will change how I feel, especially in regards to you. The only thing him lashing out will do will prove you're better off without him."
"I wasn't innocent in everything Sebastian."
"I know, but neither was he. And personally, I like that you're not as innocent as you seem."
