Five Years Later
Part 38
With Sam only having one more complete day left in town before heading back to Ohio, they were all relieved that Kurt hadn't returned since New Year's Day. And while the girls had both continued to work during his visit, they all still had plenty of time together. That was not only just the three of them, but even with as hectic as Blaine schedule was he made certain he spent time with Sam as well. Needless to say, by the time he was returning to Ohio, Sam had a completely new view of what was happening in New York. Everything the girls had told him was truer than he comprehended and he'd gotten to see for himself just how good Blaine and Sebastian were for one another.
So with it being his last day, it wasn't too surprising that they were all going to be spending it together once Blaine was done with his photo shoot. Since they weren't quite sure when precisely they were all getting together, they were essentially sitting around and waiting for a call from Sebastian who would be the first to know when they were done. While the three of them spoke, Sam couldn't help but agree with Santana who was trying to encourage Rachel to let Thad know how she was feeling. The fact that Sam could see everything Santana was saying was beginning to open Rachel's eyes more. That out of all the times they'd spent together since Sam was in the city, even he saw that Thad tended to give Rachel quite a bit of attention.
"You do know, he might only be waiting for a sign that you're interested in him before he tries anything." Sam told her and Santana couldn't agree more with what he said. The fact that Sam was telling her something that Santana had so many times, certainly had Rachel taking a bit more notice. So when there was a knock on the door, they all looked at one another as they really didn't want to stop their conversation. Plus there was a bit of hesitation about who could be at the door.
Since Sam brought up another point to Rachel, Santana got up to get the door, hoping Sam could make some more headway with her. When she heard another knock, she called out that she was coming. Considering they weren't expecting anyone, she couldn't help but smile upon opening the door to find Thad on the other side. "And what do we owe the honor of your presence?" Santana asked after kissing him on the cheek before letting him in.
"Sebastian asked me if I would come and get the three of you."
"Why didn't he just call us?"
"I'm not quite sure but one knows better than to question when Sebastian asks them to do a specific task for him." It wasn't much of a surprise to Sam, that Rachel's attention was no longer focused on him the moment Thad opened his mouth and began to speak. By the time the two of them came closer, Sam nudged her to try and relax her. "Now, are the three of you ready to go because as by now you should know Sebastian doesn't like to be kept waiting?"
"That is something we are well aware of." Rachel replied as she and Sam stood. "Now, what is the plan for this evening?"
"You will find out once we get there." Thad replied and once he did, he proceeded to help Rachel on with her coat as Sam did the same for Santana. "Shall we?" Once he extended his arm, Rachel happily took it as Sam and Santana refrained from laughing at the smile that crept to her face.
After reaching the door, Sam reached forward to pull it open so they could leave. But no sooner was it open, did they hear a gasp. "What is he doing here?" The moment the words were spoken, Rachel and Santana exchanged looks as Kurt was glaring at Thad. And it didn't get past them that Kurt seemed to look down at Rachel's arm hooked through his.
"We were just leaving." Sam replied.
"That didn't answer my question, but I shouldn't be so surprised considering everything. Not only is Thad here friends with Blaine, but he's friends with the Meerkat."
"Does that mean you put all the pieces together Hummel?" Thad asked as he looked at him. But when his expression didn't change, Thad just laughed. "And not that it's any of your business, but I'm here to pick them up as we're all going out as Blaine would like to spend more time with Sam before he returns to Ohio. Now, if you'll excuse us we need to get going?"
"You're not going anywhere as Rachel and I have to talk." They all just looked at him as they were shocked that he said such a thing to them. He had to know there is no way he was going to stop them from leaving.
"There is nothing to talk about Kurt." Rachel replied. "I didn't tell you about Blaine being with Sebastian as it's honestly none of your business who Blaine dates. If you're upset with me, I'm sorry but I don't regret not telling you."
"After everything Sebastian's done, you're okay with the two of them being together even with as much as you claim to care about Blaine."
"For starters, I do care about Blaine, very much actually. Sebastian makes him happy Kurt, and honestly, Sebastian isn't the person you think he is."
"He's fooling you all."
"Kurt, it's been years since you've seen him." Sam said. "People change and honestly, Sebastian's a pretty cool guy to be around. And unlike you, he treats Blaine with the respect he deserves."
"You have no idea what happened during our marriage." When Kurt replied, Rachel felt Thad's arm tense slightly, causing her to look up at him. "But if you want, I'll be more than happy to tell you all about it."
"That's only if Sam wants to hear your version, versus the actual truth." Thad said. "Now move, as we're going to be late." He then proceeded to walk forward so they could head on their way, yet Kurt didn't move.
"Get out of the way Kurt!" Santana blurted out as she refused to stay quiet any longer. "We're leaving!" Before he had a chance to respond, Santana pushed her way passed him and glanced over her shoulder. "Come on, we've got people wanting for us!"
Once they were out of the loft and the door was closed, Kurt just looked at them as Santana locked it. "Why do you even care what Blaine is doing with his life?" Sam said out of the blue as they headed down the stairs and Kurt followed.
"A part of me will always care about him." Kurt replied. "That is why I can't believe you guys are letting him make such a terrible mistake."
"It's only a mistake in your eyes Hummel." Thad stated. "Now, why don't you go and do whatever it is that makes you happy."
"Rachel, please."
"Kurt, the only way we're going to talk about this is if you can do it in a calm manner." Rachel said as they stepped outside. "And respect the fact that I don't regret respecting Blaine's privacy. If you can do that, give me a call later as we're leaving. Goodbye Kurt." Once she finished, she made her way into the awaiting car soon to be followed by Santana leaving Sam and Thad with Kurt.
"Leave her alone Kurt." Sam told him. "Just because Rachel's your best friend doesn't mean she's going to share what's going on in Blaine's life with you. You've been told numerous times, it's none of your business."
"He's only going to hurt him Sam."
"That's your opinion and you're entitled to it." Sam replied.
"And know, you're opinion on this subject really doesn't matter, especially to Blaine." Thad added. "So, go live your life and leave Blaine to live his the way he deems fit. Come on Sam, we don't want to keep them waiting any long than we have." Sam nodded and made his way into the car followed by Thad who closed the door behind him. While they pulled away, they all noticed that Kurt just stood there on the sidewalk watching them. "Why do I have a feeling this isn't over by a long shot?"
"Because I have the same one." Santana replied and soon Rachel as well as Sam did the same.
When they arrived at the restaurant, they were lead to a room off to the side but still connected to the main dining room. Once they were in, they spotted Blaine over at the bar talking with Jeff and Wes, while Sebastian wasn't too far away speaking with Justin and Hunter. The rest of the group was either seated or about to be as they came from the bar. "It looks as though they started the party without us." Thad said.
"That's because we did." Talia replied before kissing him on the cheek. "But we needed it as it was a long day." She then went and greeted the others. "So get yourselves a drink and join in the fun." When she walked away, Rachel couldn't help but giggle as Sam's eyes followed her.
"Don't think about it." Santana said with a smirk as she hung her coat on the back of the chair. Then when Sam looked at her, Santana laughed. "Not for that reason, she likes guys. It's just, you're in Ohio and she's here. Not to mention, you don't really know her."
"Understood, but that doesn't mean I can't appreciate."
"Appreciate away."
"Where is Jordan come to think of it?" Sam asked.
"She's coming over once she finishes up at work as I texted her where we are on the way over. Do you want to spend more time with my girlfriend Evans?"
"I wouldn't mind as she's pretty cool."
"She is, isn't she?" While the two of them spoke, they really didn't notice that Rachel had made her way over to the bar to see Blaine. Yet, she hadn't gone alone as Thad had gone with to get a drink as well. When Santana turned to ask her something, she was a bit surprised to not see her, but once she saw where she was, she smiled. "I wonder if she's going to take our advice and let Thad know she's interested."
"I think she's going to." Sam replied as they went to go get something to drink as well. "I have a feeling he's interested as well, but isn't going to push because of a warning from Blaine unless she gives him some sort of indication."
"I hadn't thought that maybe Blaine had told the guys to be careful considering everything she's been through." Santana said. "But it's a good move considering how hesitant she was to even admit she had feelings for one of them."
"When in doubt, let Blaine know she's interested as I have a feeling he'd have no problems letting Thad know."
"I'll drink to that." Santana replied as Sam handed her a drink as they were on the opposite end of the bar. Once they toasted, Santana felt a hand on the lower part of her back which caused her to turn. "May I help you Sebastian?"
"What are you and Sam here drinking to?" The way he cocked an eyebrow at her, Santana had to think fast as she really didn't want to tell him precisely the context of their conversation. "That we're both in agreement about something we need to talk to Blainers about."
"Such as?"
"That's between us and him Sebastian. Though, I have a feeling you'll be brought into the loop sooner rather than later."
"Santana."
"Not getting anything else Sebastian." She then gave him a quick peck on the cheek. "Now, how did things go for Blaine today?"
"Why don't you ask him yourself as from his expression it looks as though Rachel is currently asking him all about it?" Santana nodded before heading towards Blaine, leaving Sam with Sebastian. "Don't worry Sam; I'm not going to push." He stated after taking a sip of his drink after seeing the look on Sam's face. "Particularly since Santana said I'd probably find out from Blaine anyhow."
"I appreciate that." Sam said as he raised this glass to which Sebastian responded in kind. "He looks like he's in a really good mood."
"That's because he is." Sebastian told him. "Quite a bit happened today besides the shoot and he plans on sharing that with everyone. So, it's a good thing you're still here so he can share the news with you in person."
"I appreciate that Sebastian."
"It's true. While things started off a bit rocky between us for justifiable reasons, we're passed that and I know how much you mean to B."
"He means a lot to me too. Just as I know how much you mean to him." Sebastian smiled in response before taking another sip of his drink before pointing towards the tables.
"Now let's go take a seat as it looks like they're all prepared to share their news."
It took a bit for everyone to get settled but once they were it only took one look around to notice that aside from Sebastian, Blaine was surrounded by his band. And while they were all happy to be together, it was clear that the five of them to be exact were happier than the others. Though, Sebastian and Jeff could easily come in a close second so it was clear they knew more than everyone else. When Blaine rose from his seat, they all saw that he had Sebastian's hand in his.
"With everything that's happened since the night I showed up at Bas's door, I've come to realize how lucky I am to have you all in my life." Blaine began. "Rachel and Santana, I know I put you both in a pretty awkward situation when everything fell apart, so thank you for not turning your backs on me and continuing to be there for me." The girls both smiled back at him before he continued. "Sam, thank you for well, being you, also for being that ear to listen to me when I needed it. And for not pushing me when everything happened and just being there when I needed you."
"Always dude." Sam said as he looked at Blaine with a smile.
"Justin, Talia, Todd, and Morgan, you guys came into my life when it was changing yet even with everything that happened and we all know it was a bit crazy to say the least, you didn't run away."
"That's because you weren't the chaos Blaine, it was around you but it wasn't you." Talia told him. "We've all talked about it and we feel lucky to have a friend like you in our lives. This goes beyond the way we all click musically."
"As she said, we all care about you Blaine." Todd told him.
"And I care about you guys." Blaine then looked down at Sebastian and smiled before continuing after taking a deep breath. "As for the rest of you, I don't know why you didn't give up on me after everything and me essentially pushing you away, but thanks for not doing so." While he spoke, a few could see Sebastian give his hand a squeeze. "Know that not having you guys in my life left quite the void. And I'm sure Wes told you I asked about you all."
"He did." Nick said. "He reassured us that you missed us as much as we missed you as we'd constantly ask about you."
"To the point we irritated him a bit." Thad added. "Isn't that right Wes?"
"Saying a bit, could be an understatement."
"Just don't mock him." Jeff said with a laugh that got the rest of the former Warblers laughing aside from Sebastian who could tell it had to be in regards to something that happened before he arrived.
"I don't mock, I only call people out who attempt to mock us…sir." Thad replied and the guys laughed only harder causing the others to look around.
"Care to tell us what's so funny?"
"Back when Kurt first came to Dalton he made a comment about the Warblers and their image." Blaine started as he got his laughter under control. "And well, long story short, Thad sort of snapped and accused Kurt of mocking us because of something I said."
"Really?" Rachel asked.
"Yes, really." Blaine told her. "It was quite a moment that none of us have clearly forgotten. Ask David and the others about it as well next time they are in town. David was up at the council table with Wes and Thad when it happened." While Blaine spoke, Santana glanced over at Rachel as she was curious about what sort of reaction she was having to hearing more about Thad. "Now, where was I?"
"Telling us how much you missed us." Jeff said as he slid his arm around Morgan.
"Thank you. I did." Blaine then glanced down at Sebastian. "Bas, while you're clearly part of that other comment you know there is more which I'm not going to get into." Once those words came out of his mouth, he wasn't surprised to hear some comments from his friends that brought a slight blush to his face. "Yet even with the time we'd been apart, I can't begin to tell you what your faith in me has meant to me. You helped me reconnect to the person I am deep down so in part, most of what's happening wouldn't have happened had I not come to see you and for the things you've said to me from that night forth." While he spoke, it was clear what his words were meaning to Sebastian's whose entire demeanor changed as his expressions softened. "So, I'm sure you're wondering why I'm rambling the way I am, though some of you obviously know since it involves you."
"What is it Blaine?" Wes asked.
"We signed a recording contract today." The way everyone's eyes flew open brought a big smile to Blaine's face.
"Seriously?" Sam said.
"Seriously." Blaine told him. "No sooner did we get those tracks finished, did Vincent and his bosses begin making some calls. It seems we'd made quite a name for ourselves rather quickly in this fair city."
"How were you not busting at the seams?" Rachel asked once they all finally calmed down a bit after congratulating each of them. "I wouldn't have been able to keep quiet at all."
"It all just happened." Blaine replied. "And trust me, I did freak out, we all did. Everything is happening so fast that it feels almost too good to be true."
"That's one of the reasons I asked Thad to go and get you guys as B needed a bit more time to compose himself." Sebastian added. "Not to mention, he needed to talk with his parents and Cooper first."
"While it seems too good to be true Blaine, know it does happen this way once in awhile." Thad told him with a big smile.
"We've been reminded of that quite often since we signed everything." Morgan replied. "So, Thad, thank you for recording Blaine at the concert as it set everything that's happened in motion. While we all knew Blaine was talented, you brought his talent to the attention of the right person." When the rest of the band began to chime in, Sebastian slowly brought Blaine down onto his lap as they all processed everything.
"I can't believe I'm saying this, but it wouldn't be me if I didn't." Wes said as he looked across at Blaine. "But, are you guys still following your original plans since you're almost done with school?"
"Yes as that's already been discussed." Blaine told him as he leaned his head against Sebastian's. "Since our performance schedule is pretty much set through May already there wasn't too much that could change without breaking contracts. So, while we're finishing up we'll be heading into the studio a bit more to do more recording. And while we'd all love for this to be a quick process, we know it's not. Just because we signed quickly, the rest of the journey does take some time. The only thing we're getting to do sooner than most is hit the studio since we've got quite the catalog of songs already."
"How'd your parents react?" Sam asked with a big smile once he finished.
"They freaked out to put it mildly." Blaine replied. "And while my Mom was in a bit of shock, my Dad composed himself to ask all pertinent questions as he doesn't want us taken advantage of."
"Trust us when we tell you guys, this was so hard to keep quiet." Morgan told them. "We didn't want to say anything till everything was a done deal."
"Now, is this news we need to keep quiet or can we spread the news?" Thad asked as he looked at them.
"Keep the news close to home but an official announcement will be made soon." Blaine told him. "It seems one of the shots from our photo shoot is going to be used in the official press release."
"How did Cooper act?" Santana asked and soon Blaine and Sebastian were both smiling. "That good, huh?"
"Yea." Sebastian said. "No hiding how proud Cooper is of his little brother."
"What about the rest of you guys, how are your families taking the news?" Rachel asked.
"I'm not sure my parents have come back down to earth yet." Todd replied. "I'm glad I had the phone on speaker as I think my Mom would've damaged my eardrums with as loud as she squealed."
"There was a similar reaction on my end." Justin told them and the girls chimed in as well. There was no hiding how happy everyone was for them. It didn't come to a surprise to anyone as toasts all soon began to be made.
By the time they were done with dinner, Blaine's cheeks hurt from all the smiling yet he couldn't seem to stop. And that was the case for his band as well. Getting a recording contract was something they'd all dreamt of and now that it was happening, it felt completely surreal for them. Then when they thought about the fact that they'd be going back to school in a few days was crazy. So much had changed for them since they'd gone on break, in so many ways.
With those that were visiting being in town for only a few more days, it was agreed upon that everyone was going to head on over to Sebastian's to continue the night. They could've left a bit sooner, but Blaine and his band took some issue over the fact that Sebastian and the rest of the guys picked up the tab for dinner. Yet the more Blaine protested, the more the others took up their cause till he finally relented.
They were about to head out when Rachel took Blaine off to the side as the others put their coats on. "What is so important that you need to talk to me now and not once we get to Sebastian's?" Blaine asked as he buttoned his coat.
"Thad." Rachel said quietly after looking around to make sure they were alone.
"Thad, as in Thad Harwood, who's over talking with Bas and Hunter right now?" While he spoke, it was clear Rachel had peaked Blaine's curiosity. Rachel nodded and a shy smile crept to her face. "What would you like to know about dear Thad? Or should I take it from your smile that you're interested in him."
"Yes, I'm interested in him." Rachel told him. "But, do you think…"
"Do I think he could be interested in you?"
"That or, that…I'm his type."
"Thad doesn't necessarily have a type, though he does have preferences and you fall into quite a few of them. Would you like me to talk to him for you?"
"Maybe just put the idea in his head or something."
"You don't want me to be obvious about it, right?"
"I'd appreciate that. I…I don't quite remember the last time I felt this way about someone Blaine."
"Then I will see what I can do. But, you might think to when you guys arrived as you were holding his arm."
"That's because he's a gentleman."
"True, he is but there just might be a bit more to it." While Blaine was speaking, Sebastian called over and asked if they were good to go which he was quick to reply once he was done answering Rachel. When the two of them walked towards the others, Blaine glanced down at her and noticed the smile on her face. Then with a couple of glances at Sam and Santana who seemed to be watching them got him to realize they had a feeling about what they'd been talking about. Once they were all on their way out, Sebastian looked down at Blaine as they waited for a cab along with the others. Something about the look in Sebastian's eyes caused Blaine to move up onto his toes and kiss Sebastian on the cheek. "I'll tell you later."
By the time they got back to Sebastian's, quite a few of them were surprised to see that they'd already taken the tree down but there were still some decorations about. So while Sebastian went to the bar to start getting things out, those that hadn't been there before began looking around. "Where did this picture of you come from Blaine?" Santana asked as she picked up a frame that was on the end table.
"Bas took it after Christmas as I was a bit hesitant about our photo shoot." While Blaine spoke, Talia and Morgan came close as they were curious as to what Santana and Rachel were looking at. "He actually got some great shots." In that moment, Blaine was happy that Sebastian had put the shot of him with the sexy smile according to him in his bedroom as he wasn't sure how he would've explained it.
"Do you think we could get a copy of it?" Rachel asked as she looked at Blaine then towards Sebastian who was mixing drinks alongside Thad.
"Once I'm done here I'll pull up the file for you to look through them." Sebastian replied. "Maybe there is another you might prefer more." At that response Blaine looked back towards him but Sebastian only smiled. That was the reassurance Blaine needed to know Sebastian had put the other photos into a separate file as he preferred that only Sebastian saw him in that manner. After everyone had their drink, Sebastian went to go and get his laptop so the girls could see the rest of the pictures he took.
When he returned, the girls were all pretty quick to go and take a look which left Blaine with the guys. "Now, since this is some of the first relatively quiet time we've all had together." Blaine said to them. "It's time you all start to fill me in on your lives, as you've got more than a good idea of what's going on in mine. Though Jeff, don't feel obliged to answer as we see each other more than most and the same goes for you Hunter." Jeff smiled before giving a nod of his head. "Aside from school, what's happening?"
"I actually have a date next weekend." Wes replied which brought a few eyes in his direction. "Don't look so surprised."
"I'm not surprised." Nick said. "Might this be the same girl that happens to be in the lab with you anytime I swing by?"
"It is actually. And maybe if things go well, I'll make a more formal introduction the next time the two of you meet."
"I'll hold you to it."
"What about you Nick?" Thad asked. "Wasn't Jeff here going to fix you up?"
"He'll be meeting her soon." Jeff replied. "What about you Thad, anyone you have your eye on?"
"Maybe." Thad said before taking a sip of his drink. "I'm just waiting for the right opportunity to present itself."
"Is that so?" Blaine asked him, happy that he'd opened up in that way. "What's the hold up?"
"The older I get, I like to know a girl has at least a bit of interest before I ask."
"Rejection getting old?" Nick said with a laugh.
"Cute, but no. I'm just more particular about the girls I ask out now."
"Is that so?" Blaine replies while noticing that Thad's attention is drifting a bit towards where Sebastian is with the girls. "I say, you should take a leap of faith if you think this girl is worth it."
"Take a leap?"
"Yes, as I took one and haven't looked back."
"But that was Sebastian; this girl is certainly shy especially in comparison to him."
"Maybe that's why she hasn't acknowledged that she's got feelings for you too. Take that leap my friend."
"I'll consider it, does that make you happy?"
"Very." Once Blaine spoke, he glanced at Sam who'd been particularly quiet since he was still getting to know the rest of the guys. But the two knew one another well enough that Sam had no doubts that Rachel had spoken to Blaine. "Sam, it's your turn to open up."
"Nothing at the moment, but I'm certainly ready to get back in the game after my last relationship ended."
"Bad break-up?" Wes asked.
"Awkward is more like it." After Sam spoke, Rachel caught Blaine's attention.
"What can I do for you Rach?"
"Do you mind if Santana and I get a copy of the picture that has both you and Sebastian in it?"
"Which one?"
"The one with the both of you in the chair and your guitar leaning against it." Rachel told him.
"Bas?"
"I told them they needed to ask you Killer."
"That's fine with me as I like those shots." After Blaine answered, Santana and Rachel smiled at one another while Sebastian went to sending them the pictures. "Sorry about that."
"Don't worry about it." Thad replied. "One had to know it wouldn't have been long till Sebastian started snapping shots of his favorite thing."
"I heard that Harwood."
"I hoped you had, but you can't deny it's true Smythe."