Five Years Later
Part 45
After having their first back to back shows, Blaine's schedule started to get even tighter between school, recording, and performances. Sebastian had to keep reminding Blaine that he didn't have to keep apologizing for how busy he was as he understood. And that what was going on was only making them be more aware of how they spent their time. With Blaine being in the studio for another couple of hours, Sebastian wasn't in a rush to head home so he and Hunter had gone to the library to get some studying done.
Throughout their time studying, quite a few other topics were discussed as well. With Kimberly's schedule being so hectic as of late, Hunter couldn't help but joke about the amount of time he'd been spending on the phone or in front of the computer. "I do hope you're using a secure connection otherwise it could be a bit awkward." Sebastian replied causing Hunter to laugh. "It's true man as the last thing a future lawyer needs is some sort of sex video coming out."
"What makes you think something like that is happening?" Hunter asked.
"Logic." Sebastian replied. "So?"
"Fine. And yes, it's a secure connection as there is no way I'd do it otherwise." When Sebastian looked at him, Hunter laughed again. "If you want, I can give you the information for how to get a secure connection for when Blaine's on the road."
"I'd appreciate that. The last thing either of us would ever need is something like that coming to light."
"Too true. Have the two of you decided how you're going to spend the weekends your parents are in town?"
"Well, B's performing each weekend so we're going to have to work around that. But both sets of parents know so it shouldn't be too much of a problem. Not to mention, I can't see either set being up early the day after seeing him since it's never an early night even if we don't go out." Hunter smiled as he spoke. "Yes, I'm well aware that I will be the one entertaining them while he's on stage."
"For the most part, but, everyone else will be around so they can take some of the pressure off of you." Hunter told him. "I have no doubt the others will help you with Blaine's parents since they know them a bit better. Yet, you'll be on your own with your own parents though, we'll help if needed." While he spoke, Hunter noticed a change in Sebastian. "What is it?"
"Do you realize this is the first time I've ever had to go through this?" When Hunter cocked an eyebrow, Sebastian nodded. "While I'd dated a few guys in the past, none ever meant enough to me to introduce them to my parents."
"Are they anxious to meet him?" Sebastian only nodded in response as he was answering a text from Blaine. "Are you afraid of what they're going to do?"
"I truly have no idea how they're going to react." Sebastian replied as he set his phone back on the table. "While B has told me what I can expect from his parents, especially his Mom. I have no idea how my parents are going to behave. They know Blaine means a lot to me and can't wait to meet him, but beyond that, I have no clue."
"From what we've discussed, our parents are quite a bit alike and I've been through what you've been through. Yet you have an advantage as they've gotten to know Blaine a bit from your Skype calls."
"Still."
"Sebastian, it might not be that bad. Just know that no matter how formal parents can be, they can't help but fuss when they see their kids are in love. And there is no doubt that you are in love with Blaine and that he loves you."
"I know. I think part of what is getting to me is the fact that when they seem him perform it's not really the types of places either of our parents go to."
"I'm sure they're all aware of it, yet they still want to go Sebastian. Just remind your parents to bring suitable clothing so they're not overdressed for the occasion."
"That's a good idea." Just as Sebastian responded, they were surprised to see someone standing on the far end of their table. "May we help you?" Sebastian asked as he looked at Santana. "Sit as this is a library." Santana nodded and proceeded to do so, moving closer to the two of them. "Now, what brings you here?"
"I have a question about Thad."
"What would you like to know?" Hunter asked.
"He's not the type of person to reschedule plans for no reason, is he?"
"No." Sebastian replied. "I take it he had to reschedule a date with Rachel and she's afraid she's done something wrong."
"Basically."
"She's done nothing wrong." Hunter told her. "This semester of school has just been a bit more intense so doing things during the week is harder for him. Trust me when I tell you, his feelings for her haven't changed."
"Hunter's right, he's actually pissed that he's had to reschedule. But school is important to him and I thought she knew that."
"She does." Santana replied. "This whole thing is an adjustment for her. When they're together he makes her feel like the most important thing and then…" Santana proceeded to sigh as they both looked at her. "So, it's only school?"
"Yes, it's only school." Sebastian reassured her. "So if him concentrating on classes is going to be too much, they probably need to talk as he's got quite a bit of schooling ahead of him. And Thad's pretty anal when it comes to his grades."
"He's mentioned it to her and she understands it. Hell, I'm pretty sure she'd be pissed if she knew I came to you guys but I knew you wouldn't bullshit me."
"No reason for us to, but I can understand where she'd be coming from." Sebastian told her. "From what B's told me Thad's a bit different from other guys she's dated."
"A bit is an understatement Sebastian." Santana told him. "Thad is night and day different in so many ways but I'm not at liberty to say."
"Just know Thad's not the type of guy to play a girl." Hunter added. "If he loses interest, he ends it as he doesn't believe anything is gained from dragging on something that isn't working."
"That's good to know and reassuring." Santana replied. "I hope you two don't think I'm overstepping my bounds."
"You care about her." Sebastian said. "So it makes sense that you'd look out for her especially since it's been a while since she put herself out there." When Santana looked at him, Sebastian smiled. "B filled in a few minor details."
"I should've known. Just as I know he'd never have encouraged a relationship between the two if he didn't feel Thad would treat her right."
"Exactly. So, if she gets worried, just remind her that Thad is in school and it's not just regular school, he's in Med school."
"Will do, as that's a good point considering everything we've ever heard. Going to Med school is certainly a bit different." Once she spoke, Santana took a closer look at the table in front of her. "Shit, the same goes for the two of you. I'm so sorry as I'm clearly interrupting. What I was a thinking coming to the Law library and not thinking the two of you would be working."
"We multi-task well, relax." Hunter replied. "And you're lucky as we're not always here, but we decided to study here instead of at home so our minds didn't wander."
"That must mean Kimberly is in meetings and Blaine is either at rehearsal or in the studio."
"That would be correct." Sebastian told her. "And while we'd both rather talk with you, we need to get a bit more studying done so we can actually enjoy our evening."
"Are you and Blaine actually going to get to go out?"
"We're hoping so but whether we go out or not, we're going to be spending the evening together which is all that matters."
"Well, enjoy yourselves as you both deserve it. The same goes for you Hunter as I know Kimberly's schedule is almost as crazy as Blaine's."
"Thanks." Hunter replied. "Before you go, it's only polite to ask how things are going between you and Jordan, so?"
"They're going very well, thank you. It's been a long time since I've been with someone that gets me without me having to explain myself."
"That is something Hunter and I both understand all too well." Sebastian told her before they exchanged their goodbyes as they all had things they needed to do.
When Blaine was finally finishing up at the studio, he glanced back at his band who looked as exhausted as he felt. They'd all been pushing themselves hard the past few weeks and it was clearly catching up to them all. So much so, that Vincent was thrilled that they actually finished up a bit early that day allowing them all more time to relax. Ever since they all began working together, he never had to question any of their work ethics as it was clear they were all perfectionists. "Should I even ask what everyone's plans are for the night or are all our plans similar?" Blaine asked.
"If your plans are for relaxing, then no." Justin replied. "As that's what I'm going to do, though I might go to the gym for a bit."
"Same goes for me." Talia replied. "Along with catching up on laundry."
"Nice to know I'm not the only one that's put off laundry." Todd said with a laugh. "So, my plans are similar to Talia's. "Morgan?"
"Trying to clear out my DVR so I have space for all the new stuff I'm not at home to watch when it airs." She replied. "Though, I have a question for you Blaine."
"What would that be?"
"One of my friends recommended a movie to me and when looking at the cast list a name caught my attention. It's a rom-com, so I'm not sure if you've seen it but I'm sure you know of it."
"What name caught your attention?"
"Cooper Anderson. I could've sworn you said your brother's name was Cooper and that he was an actor."
"Recently released rom-com?" Morgan nodded. "That would be my brother as he saw to it that I got a copy as soon as it was available. He's really proud of it."
"Well, from what my friends had to say, he should be as they all loved it."
"Have you watched it Blaine?" Talia asked as all eyes were now on him.
"Yes and I enjoyed. The love story is sweet, but it will make you laugh as well."
"Has Sebastian seen it?" Justin asked as they all began putting away their gear.
"He has and enjoyed it as well. Rom-coms aren't his thing, but it had him laughing pretty hard as well as rooting for Coop to get the girl."
"Are you going to tell us if he does?" Talia asked.
"Nope, as I don't want to ruin the movie for you." Blaine told them. "And since the rest of you have shared, I'm going to be heading over to Bas's to relax."
"That sounds like exactly what you need." Morgan replied with a smile. "With as crazy as things have been I know you two haven't gotten to spend too much time together lately."
"True, but we make the most of the time we do get and he's more than understanding about it."
"Sounds like Jeff, we both lucked out."
"We certainly did."
By the time they were all heading on their way, Blaine decided to work on the set list for their Valentine's Day show during his subway ride to make time go by quicker. Throughout the ride, Blaine went through his IPod numerous times, listening to some of the new numbers that they'd rehearsed specifically for that night. While most were going to be played, the order they were played in was important as well. Not to mention that this was going to be the first Valentine's Day Blaine and Sebastian spent together. And while it might not be how some might expect to celebrate, Blaine and Sebastian both were well aware that they were probably going to be celebrating many occasions not in a typical manner.
Once he made his way to Sebastian's building, Blaine hoped that Sebastian had gotten most of his studying done as he really could use a quiet night for the two. By the time he came walking through the front door he couldn't stop the smile that crept to his face upon smelling dinner cooking. After calling out for him, he wasn't too surprised to be told he was in the kitchen considering what he smelt. The moment Blaine rounded the corner to the kitchen; he leaned against the doorframe and took in the sight before him. "You didn't have to do this." Blaine replied as he didn't want to startle him by sneaking up on him.
"I know, but I wanted too." Sebastian said as he looked towards the doorway. "Are you going to come closer or are you staying away for a reason?"
"I didn't want to startle you." Blaine replied while walking closer. "It smells amazing." Once Blaine wrapped his arms around him, Sebastian moved one arm and wrapped it around Blaine before leaning down to kiss him. "Do you have to study tonight?"
"I only have a couple of pages to read but then I am all yours." After he replied, Blaine tightened his hold around Sebastian, pressing his body firmly against his. "I take that to mean you like that news."
"I do. Having a normal night at home together is what I need."
"Me too Killer, me too." Sebastian said before kissing him once again. "So, why don't you help me out by setting the table as dinner is about ready?" Blaine nodded before releasing his hold on Sebastian so he could do as he was asked. Once the table was set, he grabbed a bottle of wine out of the rack after asking Sebastian which would go best with what he was making.
Getting to sit down at the table together and enjoy a home cooked meal was something the two missed more than they realized. Being able to discuss their days without having to rush because they both had work to do or having to talk over a crowded restaurant meant a lot. And the more they talked, it was clear Sebastian needed a quiet night together as much as Blaine did. Once everything was cleaned up, Blaine grabbed their bottle of wine and brought it into the living room for them to continue enjoying. With Sebastian only having a couple of pages of reading to do, Blaine decided to continue his work on their set list knowing it was something he'd be able to stop doing on a moment's notice.
Keeping true to form, Blaine lost himself a bit tweaking the set list and didn't notice Sebastian finish up his reading. Yet soon he felt Sebastian's foot moving up his leg as they were sitting on opposite ends of the couch facing each other. The moment he looked away from his tablet towards Sebastian, he was quick to save what he was working on and moving his tablet to the table. "I take this to mean you're done?" Blaine asked and Sebastian nodded while still moving his foot up Blaine's leg. Before Sebastian's foot could continue its path, Blaine grabbed ahold of it. "Bas."
"What, am I not allowed to be a bit playful Killer?"
"Oh, you're more than allowed to be playful Bas." Blaine replied before releasing Sebastian's foot again. "I just want to get one thing discussed before we start enjoying ourselves more completely."
"I'm listening." Sebastian said as he lazily began to move his foot back and forth.
"Considering our parents are coming into town, I made dinner reservations for both Friday nights to ensure we weren't rushed since I'd be performing."
"Alright, sounds good. I take it that each restaurant is near where you'll be performing."
"That would be correct. We're going out for Italian with my parents and Japanese with yours." Once he spoke, Blaine saw a smile creep to Sebastian's face that was much different from the one he'd been sporting moments prior. "Now it's my turn to ask what."
"Just that you remembered that Japanese cuisine is one of my parents' favorites."
"I also know they love French cuisine, but after living in Paris I don't know if any place here in the city can compare."
"There are a few." Sebastian told him. "Next time we go out to dinner, I'll take you to one."
"I'd like that." While he spoke, Blaine began making his way towards Sebastian till he was lying above him. "Are you okay about this because if it's too much you don't have to meet them, at least yet?"
"Yea." Sebastian said softly as he wrapped his arms around Blaine. "I only wish I could give you a bit more of a heads up about how my parents might react."
"We'll manage Bas. Plus, it's not as though we're meeting for the proverbial first time. Those Skype chats have helped break the ice a bit. This is just the first time we're meeting in person."
"That's very true. Now, is your schedule set for next week?"
"Yes, it's set, plus Vincent is well aware that Morgan and I are both planning on celebrating Valentine's the day before since we're performing that night."
"But we're still celebrating that night as well, right?"
"Yes. My place on Wednesday night and then your place after the show." Blaine then leaned in for a kiss. "Any other questions?"
"Just one."
"What would that be?"
"Do you have to leave early tomorrow morning?"
"No. Why, do you have a late night in mind?"
"Only as late as we want, do you mind?"
"Not in the slightest." The moment Blaine was done speaking, the two began to kiss and from the intensity of the kiss it was clear how much they missed being together.
While Blaine and Sebastian were enjoying their night, Santana was watching Rachel packing up a basket in their kitchen. "I never would've taken you as the type to do this." Santana told her. "It's cute." She continued as she walked around the table. "I'm glad you took me going to talk to Sebastian and Hunter this way."
"I had no idea I was driving you crazy enough that you turned to them." Rachel replied. "I'm really sorry."
"It's okay, honest. I was afraid you'd be pissed at me for sticking my nose into things."
"I'm not." Rachel told her. "And while I know it's been just about month, I'm still so afraid of screwing things up. He's so different from the other guys I've dated Santana."
"That's something I'm well aware of which is why I went to talk to the guys and they reaffirmed everything we thought. Now, what are you doing?"
"Since he had that lecture to go to today as well as a lot of homework I thought I'd go and see him. You know, sort of how Blaine goes to see Sebastian even when he knows he's studying."
"You know, not everyone likes company when they study."
"I know, and if that's not something he likes, I'll leave. But I thought he'd appreciate some snacks as well as a new bag of his favorite brew."
"Did you go to that coffee shop in SoHo that he loves?" When Rachel nodded a shy smile crept to her face as well. "Well done Miss Berry. Now, should I wait up for you?"
"Santana!"
"What, it's an honest question. Should I or shouldn't I?"
"You don't have to, but I will be coming home. Now, since you're home tonight, is Jordan coming over or are you going to her place?"
"She's on her way actually."
"If you want me to make myself scarce for a while, I can go see a movie or something."
"While I appreciate the offer, it's not necessary." Santana told her while handing Rachel the last package. "Before you go, do you mind if I ask you something?"
"Even if I mind, it wouldn't stop you from asking." Rachel's replied got a look from Santana that was one of approval as she was correct. "It's only a matter of whether or not you get an answer."
"Fair enough. Now, are things progressing with you and Thad?"
"Yes, and he's a gentleman in every sense. But…"
"A part of you wishes he wasn't?"
"I'm not sure." Rachel told her as she closed the basket. "I'm experiencing so many feelings; I don't know what to think."
"Are these feelings you've experienced before?" Santana asked as she had an idea of what it might be.
"Yes."
"While I know you're caring more for Thad, I'm assuming these are other feelings that might come about when you two kiss." Rachel nodded. "It's okay to be sexually attracted to Thad and want to give into those feelings." Santana then took a closer look at her. "What is it?"
"It's just been so long since I've been intimate with someone."
"Rach, even though it's been awhile, you know it's different with everyone, right?"
"I know."
"Have you told Thad about Finn?"
"Not everything, though he knows bits and pieces which is why I'm pretty sure he's being such a gentleman. Not to say he wouldn't be one otherwise, I just think what he knows added to it."
"That wouldn't surprise me if he's taking things a bit slower because of what you've told him. So, if that's the case, I think if you want things to move along a bit you're going to have to be the one to initiate it."
"You've actually got a point."
"Of course I do. Now go bring your boy his goodie basket and see where things go." Rachel was about to speak, but Santana just looked at her. "Hey, I'm not saying for you to go jump him, but maybe let your hands wander a bit."
"Goodbye Santana."
"Goodbye Rach." Santana said as Rachel grabbed her coat. "Just remember to call in case plans change."
"Yes dear and have fun while I'm out."
"You know I will." Santana told her while waiting for her to close her coat. Once she was set the two exchanged a hug and Rachel was on her way. After she was gone, Santana was still smiling after she closed the door as she loved seeing this side of Rachel. While she'd been slowly regaining her confidence since they started going out more, it was beginning to kick into overdrive. And to see Rachel acknowledging her developing feelings for Thad was huge step for her.
So, while Santana was getting ready for Jordan's arrival, Rachel was sitting back during her ride to Thad's. Considering the time of night, the express trains weren't running so it was going to take a bit longer than usual. And while she'd try and catch up with people during these rides, the one person she wanted to touch base with was Blaine but she knew he was with Sebastian and didn't want to disturb them. So she decided to scroll through her phone to see if there was anyone she hadn't spoken to recently and shook her head once Kurt's name appeared. There was once a time where she wouldn't have hesitated in calling him to pass the time, yet now she didn't have the same feeling.
Once Rachel reached her stop, she only had to walk a little more than a block till she reached Thad's building. During her ride up in the elevator she was starting to have doubts about what she was doing since she was dropping by unannounced. Yet considering how close she was, it was too late to turn back. After reaching his door and ringing the bell, it was taking quite a bit of composure to remain calm especially since it seemed to be taking longer than normal for him to answer. Rachel was about to turn around when she heard the door opening. Once it was, she had to take a double take as Thad was standing before her shirtless with only a pair of sweats on. "Hey, come on in." He told her with a smile as he opened the door wider her so she could come inside. "What brings you by?" He asked after giving her a kiss on the cheek prior to closing the door.
"I'm…not disturbing you, am I?" She asked as they walked further into the apartment.
"Not in the slightest." Thad replied while reaching for the basket. "What's in here?"
"Just some things for you." Rachel told him as she handed it over and then proceeding to take her coat off. "Some of the snacks you mentioned you like to eat while studying as well as some fresh ground coffee." While she spoke, she noticed a smirk creep to his face. "What?"
"That's really sweet of you." Thad said before leaning in to kiss her again, but this time on the lips as he'd placed a hand under her chin and tilted her head up. "I'm really sorry I had to cancel our plans."
"It's alright. I hope you don't mind that I came by. Because if you want me to leave, I will as I know I was taking a chance showing up without calling."
"You don't have to go anywhere, that is unless me studying would bother you and then you'd need to go since it's something I need to do. Please, take a seat." Thad mentioned while motioning toward the living room. As they walked around the couch, Rachel couldn't help but smile at the books, notebooks, and laptop spread out on between the couch and coffee table. "Sorry about the mess." He continued as he moved some of the books off the couch so she could sit.
"No need to apologize, you're studying."
"Can I get you something to drink or anything?"
"Do you have any tea?"
"I think I do. Just give me a minute as I'm going to brew some new coffee as well if you don't mind."
"Not at all." Rachel replied and soon Thad was getting up but not before grabbing the coffee she'd brought him out of the basket to go brew. Once he was down the hall, she lounged back on his couch to take in the moment. The closer she looked at him the more she realized it was pretty clear that he'd just taken a shower which is why it took him awhile to answer the door. And seeing him shirtless, with damp hair and only wearing sweats her imagination began to wander more than it normally would. While she might want to blame Santana for putting thoughts in her head, she couldn't as Santana had only encouraged her to embrace what she was feeling.
While Rachel didn't doubt she was attracted to Thad, there was now no denying that she was attracted to him in all aspects. So as she waited for him to return, Rachel leaned over to look at what Thad was studying before he went to take his shower. The two course books were Anatomy and Biochemistry, though most of his notes seemed to be from Anatomy. Then glancing to the side she noticed some of the books on the book shelves, everything ranging from Genetics to Inorganic Chemistry. Not that she thought herself stupid, but most of those books made her feel that way as science was never her strong suit. When Thad came walking back into the room, she noticed that while he waited on the coffee to brew he'd gone and put a t-shirt on. As he set the tray on the table, she looked at him. "Thank you." She replied as he sat down beside her.
"Don't mention it." Thad told her before taking a sip of his coffee. "Thank you for the coffee by the way as I go through a lot of it from my late nights of studying."
"I remembered you mentioning it." Rachel said before taking a sip of her tea. "Do you have a lot of studying to do?"
"I do which is why I decided to take a shower before I got too engrossed in it. This way if I stay up too late, I don't have to try and sneak in a shower before heading to class."
"Do you tend to do that a lot?"
"More often than I'd like to admit. It's one of the reasons why I tend to let loose on the weekends as I overdo it quite a bit during the week. Though, I'd be lying if I said I don't study on the weekends as well."
"Is it hard?"
"Yes and no. If anything, I'd say it's a lot of work which makes it hard for some if they have bad study habits or have a problem retaining information. Luckily, during my time at Dalton I established some good study habits."
"I'm not surprised to hear that considering all the things Blaine used to talk about once he transferred to McKinley. The courses you guys took there were certainly more challenging."
"I remember him saying something along those lines before we got pushed out of it."
"You know he hated having to do that."
"I know, we all know. It only reinforced our dislike of Hummel." While he spoke, Thad scooted a bit closer. "How about we talk about something more pleasant before I get back to work?"
"I'd like that. What would you like to talk about?"
"What prompted you to come by, not that I object?"
"I wanted to see you."
"Is that the only reason?" Rachel nodded and soon Thad reached out to caress her cheek. "I'm glad you did as I wanted to see you too."
"You did?"
"I did." Before Rachel had time to fully process his response as his tone was practically intoxicating as he spoke, she felt his lips back on hers. The kiss only broke long enough for them each to set their cups down, but once it resumed any hesitation Rachel might've felt that he didn't feel the same way disappeared as they lost themselves in the kiss.
