Author’s Note: Thank you everyone for the lovely reviews a86; They really make my day!

In the last chapter I had one or two not so nice reviews about Sebastian. I was told he felt out of character and that the whole scene was unnecessary. Now, I don’t mind constructive criticism. I crave it because I want to get better so let me explain where I was going with that. I really don’t think that was out of character. Sebastian has changed throughout the show. After Dave’s attempted suicide he was trying to make amends with people he hurt and I really wanted Kurt and him to have a moment together. Kurt and Sebastian aren’t going to be absolute best friends but they both have the common goal of helping Blaine. I like to think that they could be friends and get along. Also, I think Sebofsky is kind of cute. I think Sebastian has a similar problem to Blaine in that he relies on people thinking a certain way about him. I like to think that Dave helped him with this and that changed him. Blaine just has a more severe problem. 

So please let me know if something seems off about the story. I want to make this as easily understandable as possible. If you aren’t a fan of Sebofsky (which is totally fine!) they wont be a major couple throughout the story. I just wanted to add that bit in. 

Okay! Enough of my rant a86; I hope that cleared some things up! I hope y’all enjoy this chapter! 

Christmas at Sunrise was not at all what Blaine expected. 

He missed spending the day with his brother. They would lounge around in pajamas, watch television, eat frozen pizza and cookie dough out of the tub, and open the countless gift cards their parents got them. 

At Sunrise they were treated to a full turkey dinner the night before and a huge breakfast of homemade cinnamon rolls, fruit, and hot chocolate. The residents were curled up on armchairs in their blankets and chatting as they exchanged small homemade presents. 

So far Blaine had received a beautiful painting from Clyde of himself playing the piano, an intricately woven bracelet from Carrie, and some nice homemade cards from the others. 

It didn’t feel like home but it felt like he belonged. 

He didn’t feel judged or like someone was expecting him to do anything. Instead of buying gifts expensive gifts he was able to play a few Christmas songs on the piano and sing and it was given the same amount of appreciation. 

“I’d like to make a little announcement,” Tabitha called out and the group quieted. “You all know that normally we don’t allow communication with friends and family. This journey is about finding yourself without anyone imposing on you. However, I got some news the other day that I had to share. Blaine, we got a fax from your brother and I really think you should read it.”

He frowned and took the piece of paper, blushing at the attention. 

Dear Mr. Anderson,

Congratulations! You have been admitted through early decision to New York University for the fall of 2013. On behalf of the faculty and staff, I want you to know how pleased we are that you have chosen to become part of the New York University Community. 

“Oh my god,” He breathed, practically hearing his heartbeat in his ears. “Is this real?”

“It is very real,” Tabitha nodded. “Congratulations.”

“I got in. I can’t believe it,” Blaine’s hands trembled. “I got into NYU.” 

The group let out several loud cheers of excitement and he felt a wide grin spread across his face. 

He had applied when he was dating Kurt, desperate to get to New York. Even though Kurt was a major reason he had applied he always knew that NYU was for him. Everything about the school was what he wanted in a college and the music program was perfect. 

It was what he wanted. 

Finally, something was going right.

“He also sent this package which I believe he spent a fortune getting here on time,” She handed him a bulky package which he ripped into eagerly. 

Inside was a thick purple sweater with NYU written across the chest that he instantly pulled on and snuggled into, grin still in place. 

He accepted a few tight hugs from the other residents before Tabitha squeezed him and pulled him off to the side. 

“I’ve done my research and the school does have a students in recovery program,” She rubbed his back. “I’m proud of you Blaine.”

“You know, I’m kind of proud of myself,” Blaine ducked his head, loving the rush of warmth in his chest. 

“Well come on college man,” Tabitha patted him on the back. “Let’s get you some cookies. They may or may not be on an NYU platter your brother sent. He went a little overboard.”

Blaine couldn’t keep the smile off his face for the rest of the day and kept running his fingers along the seam of his sweater. 

He had a future. 

Just him. 

His future didn’t rely on anyone else. He had gotten into that school all by himself and he had worked hard to earn it. New York had always been the dream and he had finally gotten it. 

Being proud of himself was such a foreign feeling that it was almost overwhelming. 

He loved it. 

~*~

Kurt had to bite back his laugh when he opened the door to an NYU sweatshirt clad Cooper with the widest grin on his face. 

“So I can’t cook and I wasn’t sure what to bring…so I brought you a pie,” He held up a chocolate pie and practically bounced on his feet. 

“Pie is wonderful, come on in,” Kurt waved him in. 

“So you heard?!” Cooper’s grin and happiness was infectious. 

“You were the one who told me,” Kurt laughed as Burt and Carole walked in, shaking Cooper’s hand. 

“Sorry, sorry,” He shook his head laughing. “It’s just...it’s so amazing and I’m so proud and I can’t even begin to express how excited I am!”

“He is a very intelligent young man,” Carole laughed, taking the pie. “I’m not surprised to see him get into such a good school.” 

“You know I didn’t even apply for college, I totally thought I was going to make it big in L.A. and my parents were willing to pay whatever to get me to go away,” Cooper shrugged, eyes still flashing. “Blaine was the smart one. He was the dedicated one. He deserves this so much.”

“So…the sweater?”

“I’m just so proud of him,” Cooper grinned. “I may have spent all the money our parents gave us on random NYU themed things. There might be some additions to Blaine’s room, bathroom…and car. I got carried away…”

Kurt couldn’t stop smiling from the absolute pride and joy in Cooper’s eyes. It had been so long since he had seen anything but sorrow in that family. 

When Cooper had called with the news that Blaine was accepted he thought his heart had stopped. 

He remembered Blaine talking excitedly about NYU. He was thrilled with the organizations on campus, with the dorms, with the music program, with every little thing. As soon as the NYADA craziness started up he had stopped talking. His smile grew more strained and Kurt had pressured him into trying for NYADA as well. 

He had been so selfish. 

Blaine was going to make something of himself. Something great. 

Kurt couldn’t be more proud of him. 

“Come on,” Carole placed a hand on Cooper’s back. “Finn is probably picking at the turkey and it might be gone if we don’t start dinner soon. Take a seat in the dining room.”

“This is absolutely beautiful Carole,” Cooper admired the stunningly set table. “We never did anything like this when I was growing up. Thank you so much for sharing this with me.”

“You’re welcome any time,” Burt smiled and they all took their seats. 

“It is still incredibly nice of you,” He took the offered basket of rolls and grabbed one before handing it to Kurt. 

“So, when are you going back to L.A?” Finn asked, spearing a few pieces of turkey. 

“I’m actually looking for jobs around here,” Cooper shrugged. 

“Acting jobs?” 

“Not really,” With a small laugh Cooper grinned up at them. “I’ve been thinking about joining as a teacher at an acting school for kids.”

“You’re going to teach them how to act?” Finn raised his eyebrows. 

“Okay, so I know I’m not an amazing actor,” Cooper laughed loudly and rolled his eyes. “But, it’s a way to help the kids raise their self esteem and teach them to work towards something. I want to be a part of something like that.”

“That sounds perfect,” Burt nodded at him.

“I’m actually really excited about it,” Cooper nodded enthusiastically. “But enough about that, what is new in congress?” 

Burt’s face lit up and he stared ranting about some of the issues he was bringing up in his office. 

“So it wont be weird with Blaine in New York with you?” Finn asked as they talked and Kurt could see Cooper stiffen slightly. 

“No.” 

“But you both broke up,” Finn frowned. “I think it would be awkward.”

“New York is a huge city. I have my life and Blaine will have his. I’d like to remain friends but…we’ll just have to see what happens,” He gave Finn a half smile. “I just want to see him happy.”

Cooper glanced over for a moment before turning back to Burt, smile teasing the corners of his mouth.