It seemed the sudden departure of Claire and Michael, with no welcome home, no fanfare from a cheering crowd, left the housemates clinging to friendships that were most important to them while they remained in the house. They knew that 'big brother' could do with them as he wanted and they were at his mercy. Their situation could change at any moment, so suddenly everyone was aware of their time in the house and how they should use it for good.

Kurt got up early that morning and made coffee before anyone else, noticing Blaine sleeping deeply on the bed near him. They had slept apart last night and it had already seemed slightly alien to Kurt who had tossed and turned. Kurt had gone to bed soon after Claire and Michael had left the house, leaving Blaine to talk to Sebastian and remain on the couch. Blaine had only noticed as he had gone to the bedroom to discover Kurt in his own bed, rather than Blaine's double bed like usual. He had stared for a while, taking in Kurt's slow breathing and a single lock of hair over his forehead and had considered slipping in beside him and squeezing into the single bed but didn't want to disturb him. He didn't realise Kurt was pretending to be asleep.

It wasn't that Kurt didn't want to snuggle, it wasn't that he wanted a night alone per se but as he left Blaine with Sebastian on the sofa, Blaine decidedly taking sides, even if he was oblivious, Kurt realised he wanted Blaine to understand. It had hurt to walk away from Blaine on the sofa. To not have someone stick up for him or follow him into the bedroom, bothered Kurt probably more than it should. As he poured his coffee into a mug the next morning he realised that every little annoyance seemed magnified in the house and he shook his head to rid himself of the last vestige of worry.

"You're up early," Faye said, still dressed in her pjs and looking adorable as she rubbed her eyes.

"Coffee?" Kurt asked, ignoring her statement.

"Yes please."

They sat down to drinks in the sofa area, Faye looking like she might drop back off to sleep right there. She seemed to realise and sat up straight, looking carefully at Kurt for a while.

"Are you ok?"

Kurt looked a little startled out of his reverie and wide eyed at her question as he wondered how to answer.

"Yeah I'm fine," he finally decided was enough but Faye didn't look convinced.

"Ok," she said nodding and they drank their coffee in silence.

Kurt enjoyed the peace as everyone else started to wake and hobble into the room, making their own coffees or eating breakfast. Bradley entered and Faye's face lit up from it's morning slumber, causing Kurt to look a little more carefully at their interaction.

"Morning Faye," Bradley said, blushing slightly as he poured his coffee and looked over at Faye, still sitting in the sofa area. Faye perked up and beamed a similar 'good morning', causing Kurt to laugh slightly to himself. Bradley seemed completely oblivious to anyone else in the room, including Kurt who was still sat next to Faye. Bradley sat down near her with his breakfast cereal.

"It was a bit of a shock yesterday, wasn't it?" Bradley said simply and Kurt wasn't sure if he should answer. Faye spoke up before he did.

"Yeah, I still can't believe it," she said, "I mean it was so cruel and Claire didn't lose the task. I felt Michael got his just punishment, though I did feel sorry for him as he left the house."

"Yeah Michael was a good friend in the house," Bradley said, looking around as if the room had changed now he had gone. "I might go and sunbathe this morning," he said looking at the sunshine through the French windows. Faye's eyes travelled over his body, his toned arms and shoulders then inadvertently let out a sigh that she tried to make sound like a cough.

"I think you look good with less of a tan," she said after a while and she immediately blushed as Bradley looked at her with wide eyes. "I mean, since your fake tan was taken away, you're nicer without the orange." She blushed harder as she worried her bottom lip under her teeth, thinking she had offended. Bradley smiled at her slightly; leaning forward, already eager to let her know that she hadn't offended at all. The knowledge that she had noticed him in any way was kind of flattering.

"Thanks," he whispered, so only she could hear, "I guess I probably used a little too much of the stuff," he said slightly embarrassed.

"No," she insisted, trying to cover up her earlier statement, "You just look nicer without it."

Kurt suddenly stood up, having finished his coffee a few minutes ago and the thought of listening anymore to the nervous flirting made him feel sick. He made his excuses and walked to the garden area where Ed was smoking in the corner seat. He looked ragged in his grey sweats and white tank top, his hair a mess and Kurt wondered, not for the first time whether he should take up smoking just so he could hang some more in the comforting secluded area.

"Here again?" Ed asked as he stubbed out his cigarette and Kurt nodded.

"Yeah, don't mind me," Kurt said taking a seat, "I just like it here."

They sat in a comfortable silence for a bit as they watched breakfast occur in the kitchen and living area. Blaine was finally up and Sebastian trailed out of the bedroom soon after, giving the impression they had been conversing. Kurt felt another sigh escape as he settled further back into the alcove in a bid to hide.

"You don't like Sebastian?" Ed asked.

"Is it that obvious?" Kurt said, looking worried.

"Yeah a little," Ed said shrugging. "I think maybe he tries to fit in a little too much." Kurt nodded in agreement. "But I don't think you have anything to worry about," Ed continued. At the same time Sebastian was carrying a jacket towards Blaine who was leaning on the kitchen counter talking to Heidi. Heidi left the two boys alone and Blaine inspected the jacket that Sebastian proffered and started frantically discussing it, clearly giving Sebastian some kind of advice. Blaine started opening cupboards to find something and took it all to the sink as Sebastian followed. Both boys were oblivious to Ed and Kurt looking at them so carefully from outside and Blaine seemed unaware of Sebastian's close presence behind him by the sink until he turned abruptly. Blaine knocked into Sebastian's chest, who chuckled and tried to use the opportunity to pull Blaine a little closer. Sebastian's casual brush of Blaine's bicep did not go unnoticed by Kurt, who suddenly stood, his arms straight and tense, his face unmoving.

"What are you going to do?" Ed asked from his still seated position.

Kurt looked down at Ed, completely forgetting the other guy and finally feeling defeated he sat back down as Blaine pushed Sebastian away and walked back to the sofas where Heidi and Faye were having a conversation.

"Nothing," Kurt said, slumping, "What can I do?"

"Fight," Nicola said as she sat down on the blanket she had brought out with her, stretching out her long tanned legs so she could face the two guys in the alcove.

Kurt hadn't noticed her approach but he looked at her now, her expression fierce and loyal and he suddenly smiled at her suggestion.

"What did you have in mind?" he asked, his eyebrow raised, his interest piqued.

"A duel," she said simply and Kurt had no idea what she was talking about. "He's trying to take your man, are you going to let him win?" It was clear to Kurt she was trying to rile him but he smiled sadly and shook his head.

"No I don't believe in violence," he said closing his eyes in resignation.

"A shame," she said apprising Kurt to see what he might be capable of. "Even I think you'd look hot in a fight."

"Well ok," she continued after a while, "What about another kind of duel?"

"What other kind is there?" Ed asked and Nicola looked at him as if he was completely stupid.

"The best kind," she said smirking, "A musical duel."

"We sing?" Kurt asked, the idea sounding ridiculous even to him.

"Yeah, like a singing fight club. I overheard Sebastian say that he sings and looks forward to his glowing future in music. Why not put him to shame? Why not make him regret ever boasting about his talents?"

Kurt looked at her dubiously, unsure what the competition would be. He had no idea if Sebastian could sing well or not.

"I've heard you sing Hummel," she said sincerely, "You've got class and the unique factor. You won me over, well slightly," she finished once she spotted Kurt's surprised expression. "Sebastian's only got arrogance and money. I don't think many people are impressed with that here or at home."

Kurt thought it over for a while, unsure if the plan would work but he looked over at the house where Blaine was talking to Heidi, Faye and Sebastian on the sofas. He watched as Sebastian laughed at something Blaine said and reached over, brushing his fingers over Blaine's exposed arm again.

"It's on," Kurt said turning back to Nicola who smirked and high-fived him in appreciation.

Nicola took over easily, leaving Kurt to wonder when Nicola had become his ally and friend, but finding he loved the change. She entered fiercely and everyone looked at her, expecting conversation to be interrupted.

"Listen up," she said and she carried on speaking knowing that they would do as she told them. "We've come up with a good idea out there. We think we should show 'big brother' what we're all about. We can't be forced to follow instructions and just blindly accept everything thrown at us, we should fight back."

Sebastian looked interested, sitting up and expecting good things. Faye looked slightly sick.

"What do you suggest?" Sebastian asked.

"This will be a contest and fight of a different kind," she said smiling as if this was her greatest idea and achievement. "They'll be expecting violence and rebellion; we're going to give them a singing contest. We can set our own rules, only those that want to sing will sing but we can come up with our own prizes and consequences."

"Like what?" Anisa said, looking sceptical.

"We'll think of a prize," Kurt said standing next to Nicola in support, "But the consequence is easy – the loser should go without alcohol for the duration of their stay here."

"Oh that's a bit harsh," Sebastian said, looking at Kurt, trying to work out his angle.

"How do we decide who wins or loses?" Heidi asked.

"An anonymous vote," Ed said.

"Ok," Sebastian said, standing, "But I think Blaine should decide the reward." He looked down at Blaine who was still sitting on the sofa and he looked shocked at the sudden attention.

"Oh I don't know," he said looking embarrassed, "I don't know what I'd choose."

Kurt looked at Sebastian and smirked. Without blinking or removing his eyes from Sebastian he nodded.

"Sounds a perfect idea to me," he said confidently.

The stage was set. Those that wanted to sing sorted their music and chose a costume. Kurt prepared to be last, deciding not to reveal his costume until later and knowing exactly what he would sing and wear. Heidi and Faye decided on an 'I Will Survive' Gloria Gaynor duet and although Faye started off nervously, Bradley soon whooped and cheered his enthusiasm and she continued, finishing the song off well. Nicola sang a simple version of 'I Miss You' by Beyonce and Kurt was blown away at her voice and that she had hidden it so well.

I miss you

Like everyday

Thought I'd be wit you

But you're away

The song seemed to be directed to someone at home, Kurt thinking back to Nicola's earlier comment of 'no boyfriend but someone special' and wondered what other hidden depths Nicola would display while she was in the house.

Ed and El didn't want to sing, explaining that there would be complaints and Bradley tried to sing 'Sexy and I Know It'. It was actually so bad that it was good and everyone laughed and cheered at his awfulness. Anisa then sang 'Perfect' by Pink, which suited her limited voice and everyone clapped as she finished. Sebastian's turn was next. He had dressed simply, tight jeans and an open necked shirt. He looked understated and sophisticated and Blaine smiled in encouragement as he went to the makeshift stage near the centre of the room.

He looked directly at Blaine as he nodded his head slightly to indicate the start of the song. Kurt couldn't help but laugh as the first words came out.

It's Britney bitch

If Kurt thought Sebastian was going to sing something subtle, he was very much mistaken. As soon as he started singing he sang directly at Blaine, leaving the dark haired guy with the triangular eyebrows at a sudden loss as to where to rest his eyes.

I see you

And I just wanna dance with you

Every time they turn the lights down

Just wanna go that extra mile for you

You got my display of affection

Feels like no one else in the room but you

Not only were Sebastian's dark eyes smouldering in Blaine's direction, he moved lasciviously, very aware of the power of his lithe body and his strong build. Kurt almost laughed until he noticed Blaine's expression. His eyes were darker and he swallowed nervously but Kurt could tell that the tall guy singing straight to him was making an impression. He felt his stomach sink.

We can get down like there's no one around

We keep on rockin', we keep on rockin'

Cameras are flashin' while we're dirty dancin'

They keep watchin', keep watchin'

Feels like the crowd is sayin'

Gimme gimme more, gimme more, gimme gimme more

The centre of attention

Even when they're up against the wall

You got me in a crazy position

If you're on a mission you got my permission

Sebastian ended the song with a wink to Blaine who smiled weakly and clapped several seconds after everyone else, coming out of his daze. It was suddenly Kurt's turn and he stood to change in the bedroom, eyeing Nicola nervously, who gave him her most pointed stare, clearly warning him he best come prepared to fight.

Kurt changed quickly and took one more look in the mirror before walking out to the stage. Blaine turned as he walked past the sofa and he gasped at the sight. Kurt was wearing what appeared to be an outfit made out of flames. It was mainly a tight black leather onesie but the licks of flames either side of his legs made him look fierce and daring. The material hugged in all the right places and Blaine had an eye full of his round firm ass before Kurt turned to face his audience to sing.

Everyone whooped and cheered in anticipation, no doubt expecting a fierce number to match his outfit and a few looked surprised at the opening tinkle as the song started.

I let it fall, my heart

And as it fell, you rose to claim it

It was dark and I was over

Until you kissed my lips and you saved me

Kurt sang directly to Blaine, but instead of Sebastian's lascivious leering there was only heartfelt honesty in his eyes. He looked a little lost and Blaine instantly wished he could take that expression of hurt and pain away.

My hands, they're strong

But my knees were far too weak

To stand in your arms

Without falling to your feet

Kurt looked at Blaine's feet as if it was the most beautiful place to be and Blaine wanted to cuddle him close again, realising he had yet to touch Kurt that day.

But there's a side to you that I never knew, never knew

All the things you'd say, they were never true, never true

And the games you play, you would always win, always win

Kurt looked hurt as he sang now, pained and he closed his eyes against the image of Blaine in front of him. Blaine could only watch.

But I set fire to the rain

Watched it pour as I touched your face

Let it burn while I cry'

'Cause I heard it screaming out your name, your name

Kurt really was fierce. His arms raised in the air, his head upturned to the sky, he looked down only to relay tender moments with Blaine too, lest they be lost in the power of the chorus.

When laying with you

I could stay there, close my eyes

Feel you here, forever

You and me together, nothing is better

'Cause there's a side to you that I never knew, never knew

All the things you'd say, they were never true, never true

And the games you'd play, you would always win, always win

But I set fire to the rain

Watched it pour as I touched your face

Let it burn while I cried

'Cause I heard it screaming out your name, your name

Let it burn

Kurt finished and he suddenly looked tired. His shoulders slumped and he bowed slightly as the biggest applause of the evening ensued, Faye, Heidi, Nicola and Anisa on their feet and cheering in adoration. Blaine stood but he looked shaken at the implication of the song, wondering where all this had come from and what people would think of him. He tried to maintain the look of a gentleman and he clapped enthusiastically for someone he had thought was his boyfriend. Kurt took the applause and left to change in the bedroom. Sebastian remained seated and looked decidedly defeated as Nicola smirked in his direction. Blaine stood to follow Kurt while everyone remained in the living area.

"Kurt?" Blaine asked as he tentatively walked into the room, Kurt already trying to get out of his costume. Upon hearing Blaine enter he jumped slightly and tried to redress.

"Sorry," Blaine said, embarrassed, "I'll leave you to change." Although Kurt had thought he would return to the others, Blaine merely turned around so Kurt could only see his back.

"I've finished," Kurt said after a while and Blaine looked slightly disappointed as he turned back around. Kurt sat on his bed, rather than Blaine's and Blaine immediately realised the significance, the coldness and he wanted desperately to say something but he only came closer and sat on his bed.

"That was a fantastic song," Blaine started shyly, "Your costume looked..." Blaine struggled with words and he shook his head in resignation. None would come. "Where did you even get that?"

"I thought I should bring at least one performance costume with me, you never know when an opportunity to sing might arise," Kurt said as Blaine laughed.

"Well you looked and sounded amazing," Blaine said, looking slightly in awe of Kurt and his voice.

"Thanks," Kurt whispered, his confidence slowly ebbing away as the novelty of his costume wore off.

"It was quite an unusual song choice," Blaine began then decided he couldn't continue, he didn't want to sound accusatory. He really had no idea what he was doing here.

"It's ok Blaine," Kurt said, taking his hand, "I just wanted to sing again, I love that song."

"But why that song?" Blaine said, a little more confidently. Kurt thought for a while then replied.

"I wanted to beat Sebastian," he said smiling to ease the tension, "You know he's been all over you Blaine."

Blaine looked taken aback that Kurt had noticed too and he suddenly sat next to Kurt on his bed and took his hand in his.

"Kurt," Blaine said earnestly, his brown eyes warm and intense, "Sebastian means nothing to me," he said squeezing his hand in his. Kurt wanted to believe him and Blaine looked so beautiful and passionate that he wanted only to be tucked inside of him and hidden away. He smiled shyly and came a little closer.

"Ok," he said simply, "I believe you." Blaine looked relieved and came even closer, this time hovering over Kurt so his head was above him. He lowered his lips over Kurt's and took them against his own. Kurt's breath hitched at the public declaration and the wonderful feel of warm lips against his own. After a while he parted to breathe and he looked dazed and so beautifully confused. Blaine smiled.

"Now you get to hear my song," Blaine teased and he brought Kurt to stand by taking his hand and leading him back to the other room. He turned only once as he led the way and he winked.