There was one thing that Kurt Hummel could always rely on ever since hed started high school: Blaine Anderson and his cup of coffee. It had become a thing each morning once they had discovered caffeine. Blaine would greet him each morning by their lockers with a steaming beverage and a warm smile. Today, Kurt desperately needed that waft of mocha to hit his nostrils and as he closed his eyes to take in the scent, he imagined being far, far away.

"Bad morning?" Blaine asked quietly and Kurt reopened his eyes, almost forgetting his best friend was there. Blaine rested sideways on the row of lockers, his warm, honey-coloured eyes, soft and kind amidst the rush of students down the hallway.

"You could say that," Kurt said taking his first sips of coffee and trying to open his locker. "I narrowly missed the jocks by the slushy machine, only to face the usual dumpster toss as I came through to this building. The bin was empty."

"Ouch," Blaine said, flinching at the imagined pain. "Are you okay?"

"Itll probably bruise, but Im thankful my Marc Jacobs jacket is safe. I dont know why I bother wearing such amazing clothes."

Kurt had sorted the books he needed for next lesson and they started walking to class, coffees in hand.

"Because you look fabulous darling," Blaine said in his best impression of an old-fashioned Diva. Kurt couldnt help but smile and started to wonder what his high school experience would be like without his oldest, gay friend. Hed known Blaine ever since theyd played together as boys and Kurt still couldnt believe hed met someone at such a young age with such impeccable dress sense and love of musicals. Growing up, theyd have tea in one of their gardens, or sing along to songs in their bedroom. When they had started high school this year it was inevitable that they remained together, still best friends, never apart.

As he looked down the corridor he could see the usual flurry of a group of students. He exchanged a knowing glance with Blaine and rolled his eyes. Another girl had discovered her soulmate. She was a junior, just turned seventeen and her body reacted in the way it was expected. Amidst all the changes brought upon by puberty, seventeen year olds awoke on their birthday with the name of their soulmate etched on their hand, palm side. Kurt knew that most juniors knew each others birthday, knew when a name would appear on their classmates hand, but it was always advisable to hide the name. Hands would be clutched closer to chests or hidden under sleeve cuffs in order to keep it a secret. This girl had apparently turned seventeen last week, but didnt know her soulmate, which was why the bustle looked particularly chaotic on the way to class. She had bumped into someone, and the result was beautiful to watch, causing people to stop in their tracks. Students pushed and shoved on a day-to-day basis, but when two unsuspecting soulmates collided they would almost bounce apart and time would slow down. Heartbeats would change, a spark would fly and they would see clearly exactly where they should be and who would fill their days. Life was suddenly wonderful.

This girl —whose name was Milly, as Kurt vaguely recalled— stopped to see who she had bumped into and the guy did the same. A nervous junior with a tall gangly frame and a crop of curly brown hair, who had turned seventeen last month, was standing still, watching her in awe. Their eyes searched each other, everything became clear and they shared a smile, tentative and shy, as their hands reached for each other. Slowly, surely, hands were clutched and they were pulled together, every part touching as they hugged for the first time. People around them clapped loudly, someone yelled yeah! and then the warning bell went. Everyone snapped out of their reverie and rushed to class once again, leaving the new couple to stare wondrously into each others eyes. Kurt pulled a face.

"I would hate to discover my soulmate in that way," he said to Blaine as they rushed to class. "In front of everyone and in school. So unromantic."

Blaine laughed at his best friends disgusted expression.

"Well the chances of us discovering our soulmate before college is highly unlikely anyway," Blaine said as they took their seats in class. "New York is the dream and that is where our soulmates will be. I just know it."

"New York," Kurt said dreamily, imagining the bright lights of Broadway and the bustle of Times Square. "Still going together?" He asked tentatively.

Blaine smiled. "Try to stop me," he said.

The rest of the class bundled in, chatting to the people around them. Kurt and Blaine were yet another pair of faces.

"What if we turned out to be each others soulmates?" Blaine was shy in asking. Kurt was his oldest friend, sometimes like a brother. At other times, when Kurts eyes shone the perfect blue, or when he bent over to pick up a pencil, there was something that sizzled. Blaine thought he was too young to know what the feeling meant, or how to proceed without ruining a friendship he treasured above everything. It was easier to ignore the stirring in his stomach when Kurt smiled.

Kurt looked at him, thinking it through, though Blaine was happy he didnt look scared.

"I dont know," Kurt said quietly. "I guess it would be strange in a way. Ive known you for my whole life."

"That might be a good thing," Blaine said, shrugging to give the impression he hadnt thought about it so much.

"Well whoever they are, they will have to be pretty fantastic," Kurt quipped, his sass back to its normal capacity. "I wont take just anyone." His shoulders sagged. "Its two years before we find out anyway. Another three whole years before we can get away from this little town."

Blaine nodded. They were brought to attention by the teacher when she came in and their discussion of their bright futures ended. But as usual they met in the cafeteria at lunch catching up with Mercedes and Tina.

"Have you heard about the Sadie Hawkins dance that has been organised?" Tina said excitedly. "The girls finally have all the power." She looked a little crazy and Blaines eyes widened in mock fear as he turned to Kurt.

"What are you planning on doing?" he asked Kurt.

"Well I dont plan on waiting for a girl to ask me," he said, laughing.

"Fancy going together?" Blaine asked and everyone stopped eating to stare at their friends in surprise. "What?" Blaine asked, waiting for a response but finding none. "Were friends, gay friends, it would be silly for us to wait for people to come to us. Everyone knows were gay."

"And you could make a statement by going together!" Rachel said, suddenly understanding and jumping aboard.

"Like were gay and we just dont care?" Kurt quipped.

"Exactly!" Rachel said excitedly completely missing Kurts sarcasm. "Youll be so fabulous together."

"Well that does sound like something we might be," Kurt said smiling at Blaine who joined in with the laughing.

"Great, Ill let you plan your own outfit," Blaine said. Kurt stared into space, already dreaming of the perfect homage to Alexander McQueen and Blaine laughed. Now if only he could persuade his dad to take them in his car.

Blaine had told his parents he was gay just last week. It was a simple sit down after dinner and they had stared at him like hed gone completely mad.

"Are you sure? Youre only fifteen," his mother, Gabriella, had asked and he had nodded.

"Yes mom, Ive felt this way for a while."

"Attracted to boys?" his father, Richard had asked, just sheer incomprehension on his face.

"Yes."

"I dont understand," Richard continued. "You have a boyfriend?" Like the notion seemed too ridiculous.

"Not at the moment, I want to wait until I find my soulmate," Blaine said quietly, the romantic notion making him blush in embarrassment in front of his traditional father.

"Oh no one worries about that nowadays," Gabriella said. "Have some fun while youre young. You might not meet them until much later anyway."

"I dont know anyone whose soulmate has been of the same sex," Richard started, musing out loud.

"It is possible darling," Gabriella said, touching his arm to reassure. "You know the Watsons? They know someone whose son is gay and found his soulmate when they were 21."

"A friend of a friends son is the only example you have to go on?" Richard asked. "Come on Gaby, you know this will be difficult for Blaine."

Blaine hated that he was a cause of worry for his parents, so he said the first thing he could think of to make it easier for them.

"Kurts gay too."

"Kurt?" Richard exclaimed.

"But only friends know, he hasnt told his dad yet." Blaine hadnt meant to out his friend, he felt dreadful. "Dont tell anyone, please."

"Of course not, Blaine," Gabriella said, resting her hand on his to comfort.

Blaine recalled that day a few months ago when they had been sitting on his bed, his parents away and flicking through magazines. Blaines eye had alighted on a poster of Robert Pattinson, dark, brooding with just the right amount of guy-liner and he had swooned. Kurt was rearranging and sorting his closet when Blaine asked him.

"Kurt, do you find Robert Pattinson attractive?"

Theyd never had such discussions before, never admitting finding anyone attractive, let alone someone of the same sex. Kurt turned to face Blaine, his body still mainly in Blaines closet, which made Blaine smile internally. Then Kurt spoke.

"Yes," Kurt said slowly as if he could take it back at any time. Blaine nodded.

"Me too," Blaine whispered and Kurt sighed with relief. Hed suspected that Blaine wouldnt judge, but he was never sure. Now he could say what he had wanted to say for a while.

"Blaine, I think Im gay," Kurt said quietly, still standing by the closet, though now standing taller.

"Me too," Blaine said and the relief was palpable. Kurt immediately relaxed his pose and fell to Blaines bed, crossing his legs and looking so earnest that Blaine could only beam.

"Youre gay!" Kurt exclaimed. "How long have you known?"

"I guess Ive known for a while. I always notice the hot guys, never really getting what they say about the girls. Ive known I was different, I just figured that if you still liked me as a friend then I wasnt so strange."

"Are you going to tell people? What about your parents?"

"I think Ill leave it for a while, make sure I feel more secure in myself. I dont want them to think I havent thought about it all."

"Good idea," Kurt said nodding sagely. "I wont tell my dad yet, not until the need arises."

"Okay," Blaine said. "I feel better now that you know, though." He smiled.

"Its our secret," Kurt said, matching Blaines smile.

They had told friends shortly after, no one commenting or minding at all, which was a relief. Kurt knew he always had Blaine to go through the same experience with. They discussed and researched gay soulmates and found out it made no difference. Kurt was relieved to have at least one friend he could share all this new stuff with. Although his friends knew he was gay, the thought of telling his dad scared him. When Blaine told Kurt he had told his parents, he was visibly shocked.

"You told them?"

"Yeah, is that okay?"

"How did it go?" Kurt asked.

"I think they were shocked, but they took it well in the end. They worry how we will be viewed in the light of soulmate phenomenon but…"

"You told them I was gay?!"

"Im sorry Kurt, I didnt mean to out you," Blaine rushed out, "I thought it would help them if they knew I wasnt the only one. I made them promise not to tell anyone."

"Okay," Kurt relaxed a little upon seeing Blaines worried face. "I just cant imagine telling my dad anytime soon."

"Why? He loves you, Im sure youll be fine."

"I know he loves me, but my mom was always better at that kind of stuff. I know he feels awkward around me, like hes never sure what to say. I mean when I start talking about The Sound of Music, he just looks confused."

"Well whenever you tell him, Ill be there for you."

Kurt looked at Blaine with something akin to adoration then, but he didnt know that Blaine wouldnt be able to stick to his promise after all.

The night of the Sadie Hawkins dance started off in a haze of colour and loud music. Blaines father picked up Kurt and they arrived together with linked arms and beaming smiles, announcing to the packed hall that they were gay and going together. Such a bold statement from two fifteen year olds was met with raised eyebrows and a few pointing fingers amidst whispered sniggers, but mostly people left them alone. They danced with their friends and topped up their non-alcoholic drinks and generally had the best night ever. The jocks looked over, disgusted at two guys dancing together, but in the glaring, popping lights of the party, Kurt and Blaine were protected from the hate. It was only as they left that it became an issue.

Richard had agreed to meet them a little way down the road as the school car park was bound to be full. So they walked hand in hand after saying goodbye to Mercedes, Tina and Artie, oblivious to the huddle of guys following them at a faster pace.

"What are you…"

Kurt didnt have time to finish his question before they jumped them from behind and pummelled them to the ground.

"Get off!" Blaine exclaimed, trying to land a punch, but he was too slow and there were too many.

"Were just sending you a message," one guy said, loud and clear before landing some punches of his own, keeping both Kurt and Blaine on the ground.

"Dont be parading your gay shit around here!" another sneered, kicking them while they were down. The beating continued until there was no sound from the boys on the ground.

"I think they understand now."

And after a final kick from each, the attackers were gone.

"Blaine?" Kurt coughed until his voice sounded less like hed eaten sand, but it was painful and he hissed, trying to sit up. He looked down at his dusty outfit and tears filled his eyes; their evening, once so bright and cheery, had ended so badly. Blaine wasnt answering.

Kurt sat up as best he could, wincing in pain until he could see Blaine clearer. He was crumpled up, his body twisted and his eye very clearly swollen under the blood on his face. Blaine still didnt respond as Kurt moved his shoulder and called his name, his voice ringing out in panic. Kurt immediately called his dad and then the police. They brought an ambulance and Blaine still hadnt regained consciousness by the time he was placed on a stretcher and led inside. Kurt silently cried all the way to the hospital, not able to answer Burts questions, too distraught at the sight of his best friend in such a state. Blaines parents were called and they met them at the hospital.

Once Kurt was checked over, cleaned and told he had broken a rib, which was strapped to make sure it would heal, he went to Blaines room. Kurt had bruises on his body and one on the side of his face, which had narrowly escaped his eye. Blaines parents were standing outside and as soon as Richard saw Kurt and Burt approach, his face took on a steely quality.

"Kurt, are you okay?" Gabriella said, taking his hand.

"Yes, yeah Im fine," he said quickly. "Hows Blaine? Is he awake?"

"He wont be awake yet," she said sadly. "Theyve sedated him. He has several broken ribs and concussion, but hell be ok. Hes alive."

"Can I see him?" Kurt asked, not really waiting for an answer before he started to walk towards the door. He was stopped by a hand on his elbow.

"I dont think thats a good idea," Richard said quietly and Kurt turned in surprise. Burt was instantly suspicious.

"Why? Theyre best friends," Burt said, coming closer.

Richard gave Kurt a pointed look, which told Kurt all he needed to know. He blamed Kurt for this attack.

"Blaine needs his rest," Richard continued, his voice cool and calm. "I think it might be best if you see him another day."

Kurt knew that Blaine had told his father he was gay, now was his chance to explain what had happened, make it quite clear that this was a hate crime. The idea that he might blame either Blaine or himself was horrible, but he suddenly felt weak. He would give Richard his space for the time being.

In fact, Kurt returned the following day to find the room empty. He begged a nurse to tell him what had happened, but as he wasnt family it was nearly impossible.

"Please," he begged, "hes my best friend. I need to know if hes okay."

"He went home, thats all I can say."

Kurt repeatedly tried to call both Blaines phone and his house, but no one answered and he was left desperate. He went back home, dejected and low to find his dad was already there.

"Youre home? I thought youd be seeing Blaine at the hospital," Burt said.

"Hes gone home," Kurt said, "and hes not answering his phone."

"Whats going on, Kurt?" Burt said, sitting down at the kitchen table expecting Kurt to do the same. Kurt remained standing.

"They blame me for the attack. I guess they dont want Blaine to see me anymore."

"What? What are you talking about?" Burt was instantly on his feet. "Those kids attacked you. How can Blaines parents blame you?"

Kurt finally sat down. This wasnt how it was supposed to happen, not amidst all of this. He took a deep breath.

"Because Blaine and I are gay."

Kurt stared at his hands, determined not to meet his dads gaze. Burt paused and took a seat.

"Okay," he finally said, his tone neutral. "Why does that mean this is your fault?"

Kurt looked up quickly.

"Because they attacked us for that reason, dad," Kurt said. "Those guys didnt like the fact that were gay. They normally leave Blaine alone, but that time they didnt."

Kurt looked infinitely sad that the world was this way and Burt wanted to change it.

"Youre not bothered that Im gay?"

"I know," Burt said calmly and Kurt was yet again surprised by his dad. "Ive known since you were three. All you wanted for your birthday was a pair of sensible heels. I guess Im not totally in love with the idea, but if thats who you are, theres nothing I can do about it. And I love you just as much."

Burt was so sincere, the love he had for his son so evident on his face, that Kurt felt the tension leave his shoulders and his eyes filled with relieved tears. Burt simply placed his hand on Kurts shoulder, letting him know he was there and Kurt immediately hugged him.

"Thanks for telling me, Kurt."

The relief on Kurts face was noticeable and Burt smiled at the courage it must have taken.

"Now I think you need to go over to see Blaine, talk to his dad," he said. "Do you want me to come with you?"

"No, I think I should go by myself," Kurt said. "I dont know what I can do to make it better, but I have to try."

"I dont think you should see Blaine for a while."

Richard was calm and cold as he opened the door, and in fear that they might be overheard, he stepped outside, closing it slightly behind him.

"But hes my best friend," Kurt said, indignant and getting louder. Richard looked startled, desperate to avoid a confrontation. "I have to see him, I need to know hes okay."

"Hes in bed and will need all the rest he can get before going back to school. We wont be trying to find those boys that attacked you and itll all blow over."

"What?!" Kurt shouted and Richard fully closed the door, coming closer so Kurt was forced to walk backwards down the doorsteps. "Theyll get away with it?"

"I think its best, Blaine wants it to all go away."

Kurt knew Blaine would hate that, would want justice; they couldnt get away with it. If only he could speak to Blaine.

"Please let me talk to him, please…"

Richard nearly let him, his determined expression faltered slightly, but then the screen of immutability went back up. He straightened his back.

"I think it will be best if you dont see Blaine for a while, give him a break," he said quietly, hoping Kurt would see reason. "Allow him to heal in peace."

Kurt realised it was futile. He couldnt break into someones house against their wishes, he would have to wait. His shoulders sagged and he turned to leave.

"Just tell Blaine I miss him," he said quietly. "Make sure he knows I care and that Ill wait to hear from him."

Richard nodded with no intent to carry out any of Kurts wishes.

Kurt texted repeatedly, but didnt try to see Blaine again. He suspected Blaines father was keeping him inside the house and knew that as soon as Blaine returned to school it would be easier. Except that time never came. A week went by and eventually it was announced that Blaine had left to go to a school nearer other members of his family. Just an announcement in homeroom and everyone stared at Kurt, knowing how inseparable they had been. Kurt looked lost.

"Are you okay?" Rachel asked, by his side. "Where has Blaine gone?"

"He hasnt returned my texts," Kurt said weakly, having no idea why it had all gone so terribly wrong. "His dad wont let me see him."

"But hes moved away," Rachel said as if he hadnt heard. "You wont be able to see him again."

The thought made Kurts eyes fill. Texting hadnt worked; visiting was ignored. He had no idea what Blaine thought of him or what Richard had done in order to convince Blaine not to contact him. It seemed impossible.

After school he tried Blaines house one more time, but to no avail. The house was for sale, completely empty and Kurt marvelled that they had been able to leave the town so quickly. There was a pang in his chest that his best friend, someone he had grown up with, laughed and cried with, had deserted him so easily. Blaine hadnt fought for their friendship, only believed the lies Richard must have told to convince him to leave without saying goodbye.

The weeks ahead were lonely and miserable without Blaine. No one met him at his locker with a coffee, no one helped him thumb through old copies of Vogue or admire Bette Davis in All About Eve. There were friends, Mercedes and Rachel being the closest, but no one could replace Blaine.

But as a new year started and Kurt became a sophomore, something happened that started to fill the void and make him realise that maybe life was worth living again.

Glee club.