August 21st 2017 – New York City.

Broadway star Kurt Hummel stepped into his luxurious Manhattan apartment a little worse for wear, but not completely down for the count. As much as he enjoyed attending high calibre celebrity events, sometimes they couldn't compare to a relaxing night spent at home. Kurt was still dressed in his Burberry London Charcoal tuxedo; he'd come home straight from the gala. Since his hands were struggling to hold onto the heavy free swag bags he'd scored that night, Kurt closed the door with his hips.

“Im sorry Im late! The press kept begging for photos on my way out!” When Kurt got no answer he frowned. “Blaine?” Kurt called out in a raised voice. ‘Maybe he's listening to music with his headphones on or something.'

But a quick search of the apartment showed no signs of his boyfriend of two and a half years, Blaine Anderson, and that had Kurt slightly unnerved. No matter how hectic their busy lives became, Blaine always made sure to stay in touch. So where was he and why hadnt Blaine contacted him if he was running late? Kurt himself had sent a text as soon as hed made it to his limo, but now that Kurt thought about it, Blaine hadnt replied to that message yet.

That wasnt like Blaine at all and yet Kurt forced himself not to rise to a panic just yet. There were plenty of reasons why Blaine could be MIA and not responding to messages. He could be in the recording studio working on a song and had just lost track of time. It had happened before, though not often.

When Kurt entered the kitchen and found it empty, he decided to get the bottom of things and just send Blaine another text.

Blaine, Im home now. Where are you?

His boyfriends reply came back almost immediately, and Kurt sighed with relief before reading it.

Head up to the roof.

“The roof?” Kurt asked aloud, frowning in puzzlement.

There were only a handful of people Kurt trusted enough to blindly follow such vague orders and if it were anyone else but Blaine, he would have demanded more details. Instead, Kurt--still dressed in his formal wear from the gala--bravely headed to the window on the fair side of their apartment. The window was already open. What is Blaine up to? Kurt wondered as he swung his leg over the windowsill. Blaine Anderson had a knack for surprising his boyfriend. Kurt could barely recall all the parties Blaine had thrown for him over the past two and a half years.

As Kurt started to climb the metal stairs, he could hear the faint sound of music. His heart began to race in excitement. His birthday wasnt until May of next year, and there was nothing he could think of to justify such a well planned surprise.

‘Unless...' No, Kurt wouldnt let himself consider that possibility until he knew for sure. He didnt want whatever Blaine had in store for him to be ruined if he were wrong.

With each additional step, it became harder for Kurt to stop his imagination from running wildly out of control. So much for keeping his brain from going there, but could anyone really blame him? He and Blaine had been together for so long now, so it was only a matter of time until...

Any additional thoughts Kurt may have been about to have were wiped from his brain the second he cleared the stairs. He stood motionless at the edge of the roof, too stunned at what he saw before him to react. Only a person as clever (and romantic) as Blaine would have been able to transform their rooftop patio into a something so incredible and without Kurt having any idea.

The entire area was strung with white Christmas lights that lead to a beautifully decorated gazebo. Fencing covered with even more lights surrounded four posts that held golden curtains. Inside of this was a red velvet chaise lounge and to the left of that an antique coffee table holding a white vase full of red and yellow roses. Tall lamps lit with what appeared to be crystalline shaped flowers stood on all four sides of the fencing, as well on top of the gazebo.

Bathed in the light of the clear star lit sky above, Blaines creation left Kurt feeling awestruck with wonder. He could barely believe it was all real, and yet he knew in his heart that it was. Especially since Kurt recognized the scene before him, because it had been lovingly replicated from one of Kurts all time favourite films.

“Ive stepped into Moulin Rouge,” Kurt muttered in amazement.

“I was hoping you would catch on quickly, Kurt,” a musical voice replied.

In strutted Blaine Anderson, dressed in a full black tuxedo. The sight of him in all of his dapper glory took Kurt's breath away. His air of confidence might have fooled some, but not Kurt. He quickly notice how Blaines wide eyes were shimmering with welled-up tears. Kurt knew the feeling and he bet that Blaines heart was racing just as fast as his own right now.

“Especially after how much work I put into it,” Blaine explained as he stopped a few feet in front of Kurt. “Although it goes without saying that it was a labour of love.”

Kurt laughed, “Naturally.”

“I know I went a bit overboard in the end, but I wanted everything to be as perfect as humanly possible.”

“Well you got your wish; its magnificent, Blaine,” Even now Kurt wouldnt allow himself to think or ever ask what it was exactly. But Kurt got the feeling he would find out soon enough, and he wasnt about to ruin the surprise.

“Thank you.” Blaine paused to clear the catch in his throat, and let out an awkward laugh. “So if youll bear with me here--as I try to power through all these new emotions running through me--I want to ask you a certain question that has been a long time coming...”

Oh, my god its finally happening; Blaine is about to propose, Kurts pounding heart was ready to leap out of his chest.

“My first thought was to sing you the first verse of Come What May, which is one of the most romantic songs of all time. I still remember when we both agreed it would be our go-to wedding song during pillow talk that one night. But as romantic as that might be, I think Ill just speak straight from the heart instead.”

“By all means, please do,” Kurt was torn; part of him wanted to dreamily listen to the many wonderful things Blaine had to say to him, but on the other hand, Kurt really wanted Blaine to just pop the question so he could finally say yes. I guess this what I get for falling in love with a timeless romantic.

Kurt couldnt blame him either, especially when the proposal speeches he had come up with for when he planned to ask Blaine to marry him (two weeks from now) were probably just as long and poetic. Kurt made a mental note to give Blaine the ring he had secretly hidden in the apartment once they were back inside.

“I used to think that my rise to fame would come with a price and I might never find someone who could fit into my fast-paced world. But my assumptions were proven wrong the second you walked into that fast-paced life, Kurt. Suddenly I had found someone who not only drove me crazy, but who could put up with the complications caused by my career. Despite all the touring, recording hours, and press events spent away from you, you have stuck by me no matter what. That means the world to me Kurt, you mean the world to me. And I've known for a while now that you're the person I want to spend the rest of my life with. So all that leaves is for me to ask you one special question…”

Blaine, with eyes a glow, got down on one knee and looked loving up at Kurt. “Kurt Hummel, will you marry me?” As he said this, Blaine brought out a small black velvet box and opened it to reveal a white gold ring inside.

“Yes,” Kurt replied, barely allowing Blaine to finish his words. “Yes I'll marry you, Blaine.” The tears that Kurt had so desperately tried to hold back were finally released as he and Blaine laughed together in joy.

Blaine rose from the ground so he could share a kiss with Kurt and since they were alone he didn't bother to hold himself back. Nor did Kurt, who returned Blaine's caress with a burning passion. Blaine opened his mouth and kissed Kurt so deeply that all manner of thought in his brain came to a halt. Nothing mattered but the feeling of Blaine's lips on his own. Kurt wanted, no needed, to burn this moment into his memory, so he would never forget how amazing he felt.

But no matter how much Blaine and Kurt were enjoying themselves, the task was far from over. So after spending a few more minutes savouring the moment, the happy couple eventually broke apart.

Matching giddy smiles spread across their overjoyed faces as Blaine fumbled to take the ring out of the box so he could slip it onto Kurt's ring finger. It took a few clumsy attempts but he finally managed and more laughs were shared as soon as it was on.

Kurt stared at his new engagement ring; it took a moment for the realization of what had just happened to hit him. “Blaine, we're engaged!” Kurt blurted with excitement.

“We sure are! Finally!” Blaine cheered in reply. “And I managed to plan this whole proposal of mine without you even realizing.”

Blaine had every reason to boast, even though Kurt had been kept rather busy with rehearsals for his upcoming show. Kurt had thought Blaine's curious antics over the past few days were due to the impending release of his second album. It was the perfect cover and Blaine had been wise to use both to his advantage. Kurt didn't even mind that his own plans to ask Blaine to marry him during the release party were now rendered moot.

“Come here, I want to kiss my fianc�,” Kurt said, pulling Blaine in close and kissing him full on the mouth.

Blaine was only too happy to oblige, and he welcomed Kurt with open arms, clasping his hands around the back of Kurt's neck. Time seemed to stop for them as the couple basked in the romantic glory of their own little world. “I am already loving hearing you call me that, Kurt,” Blaine murmured.

Such a beautiful setting as the one Blaine had lovingly created for Kurt was just begging to be taken advantage of. So Kurt skillfully moved them towards the gazebo and the chaise lounge placed underneath it. Kurt felt Blaine's warm breath on his skin; his hands kept gliding along his neck and chin as they continued to make out. ‘If only our fans could see us now,' Kurt thought in amusement. But he wasn't about to take a video and post it online, no, this was one moment that Kurt had every intention of keeping to themselves.

“I love you, Blaine,” Kurt whispered to Blaine.

“I love you too, Kurt," Blaine replied before kissing him again.

Chapter One

April 2018 - Est�rel, France.

There was only one thought in Blaine Anderson's still half asleep mind as he stirred into awareness: he was getting married today. That wonderful realization helped Blaine force his eyes open to face the day. It was early still, and while Blaine would have liked nothing better than to laze in bed, he was becoming too excited to remain still for much longer. He looked to the other side of the bed and found his husband-to-be, Kurt Hummel, still deep asleep and looking far too handsome for his own good. Blaine didn't know anyone who could pull off the just-got-up-from-bed look better than his fianc�.

‘I'm gonna miss calling him that,' Blaine thought regretfully, but trading it for husband wouldn't be so bad.

He could still hardly believe that he and Kurt had finally reached this point. It was their wedding day! Before the end of the night he and Kurt would be amongst their family and closest friends celebrating their union.

Blaine giggled and ran his hand across his face in attempts to get a hold on his rising euphoria. The last thing he wanted was to rudely awaken Kurt, who wasn't the best morning person. ‘I wonder what time it is,' Blaine pondered. He wasn't ready to pull himself out of Kurt's embrace just yet though, despite how lightheaded he felt.

What better way to truly celebrate the morning than to admire his lovely bedmate, who had his arm lightly draped over Blaine's waist. Blaine shifted himself so he could watch Kurt's sleeping figure. ‘Gosh he is so breathtaking,' Blaine thought with awe. It was no wonder Kurt had instantly captivated him right from the start.

He remembered that fateful meeting as if it were yesterday; how he had Kurt had crossed paths--all thanks to a mutual job offer.

--- January 7th 2015 - LA ---

Throughout his young music career and before that even, Blaine had spent his share of time waiting behind stage. From show choir competitions to plays at various community theatres, talents show and band gigs, Blaine was well used to the sights before him. Except in this case, Blaine wasn't waiting to give his usual sort of performance, no, this time Blaine was there as a presenter instead of a performer. When his agent had contacted him about presenting an award at the People's Choice Awards Blaine had been all for it. Especially since he and the rest of his band were already scheduled to be there because of the Favourite Music Fan Following award they were all up for. But what the show's viewers might not know (though many in fact did) was that the winners for the televised categories were informed ahead of time of their win.

Blaine was currently waiting offside backstage, trying his best not to get in the way of the staff scuttling all around him. His team of stylists had done him proud; his black tux complemented every inch of his body and his usually troublesome curls were neatly tamed with just the right amount of hair gel. He passed the time humming to himself; he would have brought out his phone but Blaine wasn't that bored yet.

Part of his excited state was because of who Blaine had been paired up with to present. A person Blaine was well aware of but had never had the pleasure of meeting. Off in the distance Blaine suddenly caught sight of the man in question and even at this distance, he did not disappoint.

Blaine tried to keep his body stance as casual as possible as he waited for his award partner to arrive. Why was he acting so nervous? He met celebrities all the time so why should this time be so different? Of course it wasn't very often when Blaine came face to face with one of the most eligible bachelors on the musical theatre scene. Kurt Hummel had caught Broadway by storm, instantly causing a stir with his unique talents and amazing vocal range.

‘There he is, wow, he's even more handsome in person! How is that even possible?'

There was no time to consider any possible answers though; Kurt was seconds away from being brought over to where Blaine lay in wait.

“And here is your partner for the award presentation, Mr. Blaine Anderson, who you may or may not know is a member of the band Nightbird,” the AD (assistant director) who was guiding Kurt announced.

Kurt, who was sporting a slim fit navy suit complete with a matching waistcoat and vintage clockwork bow-tie (Blaine was a longtime fan of Kurt's keen fashion sense), politely nodded his head to Blaine and smiled at him in greeting.

“It's a pleasure meet you, Blaine. I'm Kurt Hummel, if you weren't already aware,” Kurt said, extending his hand.

‘Oh, I'm more than aware of who you are,' Blaine thought, but he would never admit that aloud. “Likewise,” he replied as he shook Kurt's hand in response.

“You're both on in fifteen minutes, so feel free to spend the wait getting to know each other better. You'll be approached when it's time to go on stage,” the AD explained before taking off.

“So I hear congratulations are in order for you and your fellow bandmates tonight,” Kurt said once they were alone.

Blaine cracked a smile. “Yeah, it was pretty surprising news to me.”

“Try to remember what that felt like when your name is announced then.”

“That shouldn't be too hard, since I barely believe it even now.” Blaine would have asked Kurt if he was up for anything himself, except he already knew the answer was not yet. “How did you come to land this gig?”

“Like most actors did; I was offered the job and I accepted it. All in all I can't complain; I do love a good red carpet.”

“You certainly outdid yourself tonight,” Blaine said charmingly. When he saw Kurt smirk at him he figured was no harm in flirting a little. There were so few out gay men in Hollywood that Blaine rarely got a chance to indulge himself, and certainly not with someone this alluring.

“You flatter me Blaine, but honesty compels me to agree with you. The problem most men have when it comes to red carpeted events is refusing to wear anything except the usual black tux and white dress shirt…” Kurt paused when he noticed Blaine's bemused smirk and he sighed. “Not that I'm criticizing your ensemble Blaine, because on you, such a look gives off a very nice classic effect. I especially like your tie.”

“Thanks, I like your bowtie too.”

Kurt glanced down at his bowtie, which was made of some sort of clear plastic and not fabric, showing the pieces of clockwork inside. “What this old thing? I had to fight my stylist to let me wear it, but whos laughing now huh?”

“Not me.” Though Blaine did find himself chuckling at Kurt's clever wit, a fact that the Broadway actor did not seem to mind.

“Any idea what you'll say for your acceptance speech?”

“Honestly? I have no clue. I guess I'll just throw something together when it happens and hope I don't forget to mention anyone.” Blaine really wished there was better lighting to determine if Kurt's playful grin was real or just wishful thinking on his part.

A cheer from the hidden crowd signalled that another award had just been given, which meant there wasn't much time before they would have to head out on stage. Blaine tried to think of something meaningful to say to Kurt, yet the only thing that came to mind was telling Kurt that his time would come during the Tonys.

Kurt tipped his heads towards Blaine's ear and whispered, “It's funny that even after years of going to events like this, I still find it amazing that I'm here at all. But don't tell anyone I said that though, or else my reputation as a confident male powerhouse could be ruined in an instant."

Okay that certainly sounded like Kurt was intentionally flirting with him and Blaine couldn't stop himself from smiling at the realization. How in the world was Kurt still single? It seemed like a crime to Blaine, unless Kurt was in a relationship and was keeping it under wraps. Blaine understood why he would do such a thing; relationships were hard enough to maneuver as it was. Add in having to fight to keep hold of one's privacy only made things that much more complicated.

“I hear you there,” Blaine replied. “And your secrets safe with me.”

“Is this your first People's Choice Awards, Blaine?”

“My third actually.”

Kurt whistled. “Wow, I had no idea I was paired with such a pro. This is my first time attending and presenting. Though I've been to many an award show over the past few years.”

“Well I'm glad your first was with me then,” Blaine wanted to smack himself! Where had that even come from? “As a presenter I mean.” It was barely a save but Blaine would take what he could get.

Except to his surprise, Kurt let out a loud throaty laugh that Blaine instantly loved the sound of. It made him want to keep Kurt laughing indefinitely, or at least until it was show time.

“This has certainly been the highlight of my day so far,” Kurt confessed.

It was at that moment, just as Blaine was about continue their playful banter to the best of his ability, that two ADs appeared to inform them that their award was up. Blaine was handed the sealed envelope (Kurt got the award) and the two stars were ushered onto stage. Out for all to see, Blaine and Kurt quickly put aside their growing rapport to smile at the sea of people in front of them and the viewers watching on their TVs.

Blaine was still a professional foremost so he had no trouble remembering his lines. He switched on his performer mode as he joined Kurt at the podium. But he was relieved that the teleprompter was there just in case something did slip his memory.

“Well would you look at the crop of talent out here tonight, Kurt,” Blaine began.

“I know right. It almost makes me wanna break out into song,” Kurt said in a musical voice.

The laugh Blaine gave in response was very real. “I'd save it for the Tonys or maybe Youtube…”

“Right, right. We're not here to sing on stage but to announce the Peoples Choice Award for Favorite Actress in a New TV Series…” Kurt turned to Blaine, who smiled in acknowledgement as he opened the envelope.

“And the award goes to…”

“Viola Davis!” Kurt announced.

The crowd broke out into a loud round of applause and Kurt stepped aside so the winner could take the spotlight. Kurt grabbed onto Blaine and held out the award for him to take, allowing them to both hand it to Viola together before heading off to the side. During her speech, Blaine and Kurt were all smiles and pretended to be entertained and not dying to resume to their chat from before.

Soon it was all over and Blaine and Kurt followed one another to the appropriate spot off stage.

“That was fun,” Kurt said, smiling at him.

“It was, wasn't it?” Blaine agreed.

Blaine saw his publicist Marcus wave at him enthusiastically, and he mouthed ‘in a sec' to him. “I guess I'm due back at my seat…”

“You do have an award to accept. Maybe we'll run into each other on the way out,” Kurt said.

“Here's hoping.”
------------------------------------------------------
But unfortunately for Blaine, he and Kurt didn't cross paths again that night. He had searched for Kurt but by the time the press were done with him after his band's award win, the Broadway actor was no where to be found. At the time Blaine had disappointingly accepted this and continued on with his life. Never dreaming that he would get a second chance in the span of a month.

“Is it morning?”

Blaine's thoughts were brought back to the present when his eyes fell on his now awake fianc�.

“Yes, it's morning,” Blaine said, kissing Kurt on the cheek.

“Oh good, I was afraid I would wake up and discover us getting married today was nothing but a dream.”

“It's really happening, babe, we're gonna say I do in a matter of hours.”

Kurt pulled himself up from the bed and snuggled up to Blaine. “How are you feeling?” He was half leaning on Blaine with his head on Blaines shoulder.

“I'm on top of the world,” Blaine said, slipping his arms around Kurt's waist.

“And I'm on top of you, or nearly so, but that can easily be fixed…”

As good as a round of hot pre-wedding sex sounded, Blaine was still pretty worn out from last night. He was also starving; the last time Blaine had eaten was during the rehearsal dinner yesterday night. Blaine hated to spoil Kurt's fun, but one look at his fianc�'s cheeky grin revealed that he was just playfully toying with him.

Blaine had planned to share some lazy kisses with Kurt, but it soon became apparent that the odds were against him when his stomach growled in protest, interrupting their tender moment. Blaine ignored Kurt's teasing giggles as he wiggled himself out of his grasp.

Kurt fell back first down on the bed and brought his hands to rest behind his head. He watched as Blaine, who was dressed in nothing but a pair of boxer-briefs, slink out of bed and head towards the bathroom. He let out a happy sigh; Kurt had never felt so content before, and that said something, because he'd had a lot of good moments.

One in particular drifted back into his mind; a chance event that had brought them both to today.

--- February 9th 2015 - LA ---

“There he is! Good lord he is just as dreamy as I remembered,” Kurt whispered to Rachel in excitement.

“Then why are you hiding over here and not talking to him already?” Rachel asked.

“Because I didn't even know he was here at first and I lost track of him before I could approach him.”

“Well there he is now, so you'd better not miss your chance this time,” Rachel advised.

“Rachel's right. You kept kicking yourself for days after the People's Choice awards,” Jesse St. James, Rachel's adoring (and equally famous) husband weighed in.

“I'm going to! I just need a moment to collect myself,” Kurt muttered.

“What are you waiting for? You said he kept flirting with you at the awards,” Rachel said.

“I think he was flirting with me, for all I know he's just that naturally charming.”

Jesse rolled his eyes. “Oh, please, from what you told us, he'd have to be pretty clueless if he weren't aware of his actions. I mean, remember when Rachel and I crossed paths again in New York and I tried to act all casual with her.”

“You didn't buy Jesse's act for a second,” Rachel pointed out.

Jesse nodded. “And you were totally right; I was flirting with her--and quite shamelessly I might add.”

“That was a month ago though,” Kurt said, referring to his chance meeting with Blaine at the PCAs. “Who knows what's happened since then. Blaine might be in a relationship, if he wasn't already in one to begin with!”

But Rachel just smirked at Kurt and his many excuses. “If you're too afraid to find out either way, then then you've left me no choice but to go do it myself. But ask yourself this Kurt; do you really want to leave your fate--and your shot with Blaine--in my hands? I'm more than willing to talk you up on your behalf, but there's no telling what I could say…” Rachel's sweet, tiny exterior might fool some--such as her many adoring fans--but not Kurt. He was too familiar with her manipulative ways.

In all honesty, Kurt didn't know why he was so hesitant about facing Blaine again. Their first meeting had been so natural, but maybe that was the problem. Kurt was worried that the magic between them wouldn't be the same. ‘Oh, would you listen to me. I'm being ridiculous!' What was Kurt so afraid of? Wasn't he the same boy who had bravely come out at the young age of sixteen and had refused to go back into the closet once he'd made a name for himself on Broadway (not that he had been pressured to, but still!). Hiding wasn't his style.

“Okay, I'm gonna do it,” Kurt said with fierce determination. “Will the two of you come with me?” Kurt saw the couple eye him suspiciously. “Introducing him to you will give me an excuse to say hi.”

“I don't think you'll need one, because isn't that Elliott Gilbert he's talking to?” Jesse said, pointing to where the men were standing off in the distance.

“It is! This is perfect Kurt, you know him, so you can just go up and say hi!” Rachel exclaimed.

Kurt did indeed know Elliott, who was the one who had invited Kurt to his big birthday bash in the first place. Rachel and Jesse still went with him for moral support, but only after Kurt made one final plea. That left Kurt to lead the charge, so he took a deep breath, quickly checked his appearance using his phone's camera, and headed straight for Blaine and Elliott. Even from this distance Blaine stood out from the crowd; his outfit being a light grey houndstooth suit paired with black shoes.

“Well look who finally decided to show themselves; I was wondering if the three of you would come,” Elliott said as soon as he caught sight of them.

Blaine turned to where Elliott was looking and when his gorgeous brown eyes fell on Kurt they widened in surprise.

“And miss one of your famous parties? As if!” Kurt replied. He hugged Elliott in greeting first, not allowing himself to be a rude guest even if Blaine was there. “Happy Birthday, Elliott.”

“Thanks.” Elliott turned his attentions to Rachel and Jesse, giving Kurt a chance to finally address Blaine.

“It's good to finally run into you again, Blaine,” Kurt said.

“You took the words right out of your mouth,” Blaine told him.

“I'm sorry I didn't find you after the People's Choice Awards ended. I waited as long as I could, but I had a flight back to New York to catch that night,” Kurt explained. He would have missed it actually, if it weren't for Rachel having literally dragged him off the premises. Kurt had been tempted to reach out to Blaine, but what could he have done? Sent him a message on twitter? He could only imagine the stir that would have caused.

“I'm the one who's sorry Kurt; I should have asked Elliott for you number as soon as I found out you two knew one another,” Blaine interjected.

“Blaine's an old fashioned gentleman in a rock stars body,” Elliott said, winking.

“Are you staying in LA for long?” Blaine asked.

“Just for a couple of days, then it's back to New York,” Kurt explained.

“Where you no doubt have some exciting new show to begin.”

“I do actually; I'm the lead in a new musical.”

“First a successful three week run in a play you both starred in and directed, and now another musical? Don't you ever rest?”

There was no mistaking Blaine's flirtatious tone this time, and Kurt was enjoying the attention already.

“That's why I took a few days off to come to LA,” Kurt pointed out.

“Ah.” Blaine leaned in closer to Kurt, totally ignoring Elliott, Rachel and Jesse, who were all intently watching them still. His eyes never left Kurt's face; he had his complete attention. “Am I allowed to ask what the role is for?”

Kurt felt extremely flattered and quite determined not to let Blaine get away from him this time. Or at least not before they exchanged numbers. “It's no secret,” Kurt said. He wondered if Blaine actually knew what it was already--since he had just commented about Kurt's play--and was just pretending otherwise for the sake of conversation. Either way Kurt's answer would have been the same. “I'm about to take on the role of Jerry Mulligan for an upcoming production of ‘An American in Paris.'”

“Now that's a show I'll have to see.”

All of a sudden Elliott coughed lightly to remind the pair that they were far from alone. In fact, a number of people had seemed to take notice of Kurt and Blaine's interest in one another. Kurt didn't really care about that, even if word got out, though he did wish he could find a quiet corner to talk to Blaine in private. The trouble was, if he were to suggest that, then it really might give people something to talk about. He could see the headlines now; ‘Broadways' Kurt Hummel seen sneaking off with Nightbird heartthrob Blaine Anderson.'

“Yes Elliott, was there something you wished to say?” Kurt asked innocently, fooling no one with his act.

“I was just going to suggest that you and Blaine could go out on the balcony. It's sectioned-off so no one would disturb the two of you while you talk,” Elliott explained.

Kurt paused to look at Blaine, who just shrugged at him, though his wide smile showed his real opinion of Elliott's gracious offer. “That would be nice. Thank you, Elliott.”

“It's my pleasure. Here, take these two glasses of champagne and go knock yourselves out.” Elliott handed them each a long stem glass, told then how to find the patio he spoke of and urged the two men on their merry way.
-------------------------------------

Kurt stretched his arms and let out a loud yawn. Reminiscing about the past was all well and good, but only for so long. He gazed around their lovely honeymoon suite; it had seemed silly for them not to just stay in it from the start, considering the whole villa was theirs (and their guests') for the next three days. The walls were painted a light beige that went nicely with the white crown molding and pale mint green curtains. From Kurt's vantage point on the bed, he could see into the ensuite bathroom straight ahead. Blaine was currently out of view, which meant he was probably at the toilet. A large window was on the left hand side of the bed, and even with the blinds drawn bright sunlight was still peeking through.

Just through the bedroom door was the foyer, complete with dining table, couch, sofa chairs and much more. Kurt loved it all, which was why he and Blaine had shelled out the money to have their wedding here.

Blaine came out of the bathroom a few moments later and headed straight to Kurt, who was sitting on the edge of the bed now. He crouched down so their faces were level and Kurt draped his arms over Blaine's shoulders.

“I'm going put in an order for room service in a minute. What would you like for breakfast?”

“Surprise me.”

“Anything for my gorgeous groom,” Blaine cooed before kissing him on the lips.

Yes, life was very good for Kurt Hummel, and by the end of the day, his name would become Kurt Hummel-Anderson. It had taken them a while to decide on what they should do about their names after they were married. Anderson-Hummel had been a strong contender but in the end, Hummel-Anderson won because it rolled better off the tongue.

After Blaine dressed himself in a pair of jeans and a white cotton button down shirt, he used the room's phone to order their meal. The lure of food was enough for Kurt to force himself out of their comfortable bed and get changed. While he loved Blaine's casual clothing choice, Kurt was in too good of a mood to not add just a bit of flare. He picked out a pair of jeans that were a slightly darker shade than Blaine's, but followed his fianc�'s lead with his shirt. The collar was a bit different, it being a rounded mandarin style and he put on a black vest over the top of it.

He didn't bother to style his hair for the moment, and just ran a comb through it. “How long do you think we have before people come looking for us?” Kurt asked as he followed Blaine out of their bedroom.

“About forty minutes I would say; if we're lucky.”

“That should be enough time for breakfast at least.”

“I'll be surprised if I can fit anything in my stomach, what with all the butterflies fluttering around in there,” Blaine admitted.

“I'm good for now, but as soon as we leave this room all the anxiety I've bottled up over the past few days about our wedding will probably come rushing back,” Kurt said.

“You'd never know it from how relaxed you looked at the rehearsal dinner last night.” Blaine of course had been able to tell that Kurt's calmness had been merely skin deep, and he wasn't the only one. Aside from being generally happy about their impending wedding, which words could not begin to describe, a lot could go wrong in a day and it usually did during a wedding. It seemed to be a unpreventable thing; wedding were just stressful; wonderful, but stressful.

“I guess we'll find out soon enough how ours will go down. But until then, I'll just contently bask in the glory of today being our wedding day and let it keep me going until the big moment happens.” Kurt was tempted to check his phone to see if everything had arrived to the chateau all right. He trusted their wedding planner Nicoles ability but it was hard for Kurt to sit back and let other people do everything for him.

Blaine came to stand behind Kurt and began massaging his shoulders. “What the both of us need to do is take a deep breath, relax and remember that no matter what could happen, we're getting married. Which means it's our day Kurt, and nothing and no one can take that away from us.”

“Isn't that what my dad told you yesterday?” Kurt asked, smirking.

Blaine nodded. “And as you know Burts advice is full of words to live by, which is why Im telling them to you now.”

There was a knock at the door and Blaine went to open it. Two members of staff wheeled in their breakfast and after Blaine insisted on tipping them both, they took their leave. Blaine was the one to lay everything out on their table. Kurt merely watched him. Blaine's constant pampering during their first few months together had gotten a little excessive at times. Eventually Kurt admitted this to Blaine and an agreement was met (they would save such treatment for special occasions and the odd surprise) and that was that.

“Thanks for indulging me, Kurt,” Blaine said as he lit the candles on the table.

“I know how much you love making me breakfast, honey.”

“You still make better pancakes though.”

“I think I'm about to be outdone here.” Kurt sat down at the table and immediately went for the fluffy pancakes on the plate in front of him. His eyes rolled back into his head with pleasure as soon as the first morsel touched his tongue. Sweet flavour awakened his taste buds, and Kurt let out a soft ‘mm' in reply. Kurt cut another generous piece of pancake with his fork and kept coming back for more. “Wow, these are yummy,” he murmured as he continued chewing.

“They must be, with a reaction like that.” Blaine decided to find out for himself and his eyes widened as soon as he ate his first bite. He barely paused long enough to wash things down with a big drink of coffee. “These are good! The syrup is amazing, what is this flavour I'm tasting… hazelnut?”

“I think that's from the coffee,” Kurt said.

“Well whatever it is I'm loving it. I hope I have any room left for bacon.”

The rest of the couple's meal went by in a usual fashion for them. Kurt and Blaine chatted about yesterdays events. How long it took them to get their walk down the aisle perfectly synchronized, the long but very enjoyable rehearsal dinner, and lastly how handsome the both of them looked in the outfits they'd chosen for the rehearsals. As far as the compliments went, their obvious flirtations with each other were intended and very much enjoyed. It would have seemed like any other day for them, if they weren't in a fancy French villa.

After Kurt helped clean the table (at his insistence), Blaine came to stand beside him and wrapped his arms around Kurt's waist. He softly kissed the side of Kurt's neck before taking hold of his hand. As much as Kurt wanted to see how everything was coming together for the wedding, there was still time to spare. Blaine seemed to know what Kurt was thinking, and he pulled Kurt gently along, clearly with something in mind.

“I thought we could spend a moment out on the veranda,” Blaine explained.

“That would be nice.” There had been so few chances for them to take in the beautiful surroundings since their arrival two days ago. Yesterday had been all about the wedding and reception rehearsals and the day before that the long flight to get here. Kurt knew there would be ample time once the ceremony was over, but it still felt nice to steal a few minutes now.

The veranda just outside the double French doors in the suite's foyer held a quaint but still splendid patio area, and the view was spectacular. The light of the sunny day danced off of the blue water of the outdoor pool below. Kurt could smell the sweet scents of the many trees in bloom surrounding the pool. All this and more was the reason Kurt and Blaine had chosen this place as their wedding venue.

Blaine's thoughts were not on the beautiful scenery however, but were lost in the past yet again. This time it was because a pivotal part in Kurt and Blaine's story had happened on a similar patio back in Los Angeles. He stepped over to the edge of the railing and turned back to smile at Kurt, the memories washing over him.

---- February 9th 2015 - LA - Elliotts party ---

‘This is it Blaine, you can't let this second chance pass you by,' Blaine silently coached himself. It was now or never. Or at least, that's what Blaine kept telling himself. Kurt was right there with him, looking devilishly handsome in his blue floral print button down shirt and bright red pants. The lighting from the patio only made Kurt's many attractive qualities even that more obvious.

He and Kurt had just spent the last twenty minutes idly telling each other about themselves. A lot of playful flirting had happened in the process, and Blaine's growing attraction towards Kurt had intensified with every spoken word.

“There's something I meant to tell you when we met at the People's Choice Awards, Kurt.” Blaine wasn't nervous; he was excited to finally talk to Kurt without a time limit, or within earshot of other people.

Kurt turned away from the railing he had been leaning against to smile at Blaine. “Oh?”

“I've been to two of your shows in New York.”

“Which ones?” Kurt asked with fluttering eyes.

“‘Anything Goes' and your original play ‘Are You Listening Now?' Both of which I thoroughly enjoyed. But I have to say your performance of Billy completely blew me away when I saw it. It's left me with an impression ever since actually…” Blaine managed not to blush enough for it to be noticeable (or so he hoped), but the same could not be said for his very obvious heart eyes.

If Kurt did see them (because how could he not) his delighted smile in response was encouraging. “Thank you Blaine, ‘Anything Goes' was my breakout show and it holds a special place in my heart because of that. I really put everything I had into the role, and while my performance was well received, it made me realize I had a long way to go still.”

“I've always wanted to know; did you compose the song you sang in ‘Are You Listening Now?'?”

Kurt nodded. “It almost became a musical, but in the end I decided to just have one song to use a monologue.”

“I thought so!” Blaine replied, a little too loudly but thankfully Kurt just laughed at his exuberance. “I only wish I could have seen more of your shows but it got harder to go back to New York once my band started to take off.”

“I imagine doing a world tour as Starchild's opening act would keep you rather busy.”

A giddy grin spread across Blaine's face; it didn't even matter to him if Kurt only knew about his tour from researching online. Just the fact that Kurt knew that Nightbird had been the show opener for Starchild's first world tour was amazing.

“You're not the only one who has something to admit Blaine. I've been following Nightbird since your debut single ‘Sing it to Me, Babe,' if you'll believe it. And in case you don't, I have proof.” Kurt reached into his jacket pocket and brought out his cellphone. He quickly unlocked it and scrolled his thumb along the screen before handing it over for Blaine inspect.

There Blaine saw that Kurt had Nightbird's first album ‘Airfoil' in his music collection, as well as their newest single ‘Fearlessly Forever,' which had been first performed on the tour. Blaine hardly knew what to say; so he kept grinning at Kurt, who was watching him with amusement.

“Small world huh?” Kurt said.

Blaine nodded. He couldn't help but notice many of the other tracks in Kurt's music collection were on his own phone. “I see that we share the same taste in music, Kurt.”

“Why don't you type your number in my contact list so we can share numbers as well then.”

Such a bold request caused Blaine to laugh in amusement, and he quickly complied. ‘That saves me the trouble of figuring out how to cleverly ask Kurt for his.' As soon as Blaine finished adding his number in Kurt's contact list he handed his phone back.

“I just wish I had been able to go to one of your shows, Blaine, but despite my efforts to, I still haven't had the pleasure to see Nightbird perform live yet,” Kurt explained.

“Would you like to tomorrow?” Blaine suddenly asked. “We're playing a gig.It's not a big concert or anything, but you're welcome to come see us play…” Blaine had no idea what Kurt's agenda was for his stay in LA after tonight, but that hadn't stopped Blaine from inviting him on the off chance that he could (and would) attend. “If you're able to that is,” he quickly added.

“I'd love to come see you play, Blaine!” Kurt instantly replied with delight. Blaine had never seen such a genuine smile on someone before; it was refreshing, and beyond adorable.

However much Blaine had hoped Kurt would accept, he was still pleasantly surprised from how easily the answer came. “You would?”

Kurt let out a throaty laugh. “Yes of course I would. I don't have anything special planned tomorrow and even if I did, I'd just cancel it so I could come see your show.”

“Great! I'll text you the details later.”

“Be sure that you do, but in the meantime…” Kurt turned to look towards the door leading back inside. “There's a perfectly good party we've abandoned, not that I haven't enjoyed chatting with you out here, but we should probably get back soon.”

“You have a point,” Blaine agreed, following Kurt to head back inside.

The room was indeed rocking, they discovered upon their return; a good number of people were letting loose on the dancefloor. Blaine, seeing a good opportunity, turned to Kurt and offered his arm to him. “Care to join me out on the dancefloor?”

“It would be my pleasure,” Kurt chimed, taking his arm and strutting with him towards the dancing crowded in front of them.

------------------------------------

“And what has you looking so amused with yourself, Blaine?” Kurt asked, bringing his fianc�'s thoughts back to the present once more.

“I was just remembering the time we talked on that patio at Elliot's birthday party,” Blaine answered.

“Flirted more like, because if my memory serves me, you were sure laying on the charm. You never left my side for a second as we danced, laughed, mingled, and of course, flirted the night away.” Kurt was still amazed that the media hadn't caught wind of this and come up with a racy article that following morning. ‘If only they knew what had happened after the party,' Kurt thought with a smirk.

“Considering where it led us to, I have no regrets,” Blaine said.

The romantic moment was interrupted when Kurt's phone got a text alert, although Kurt didn't immediately check to see who it was from. Not until he kissed Blaine on the lips and muttered his apologies.

“It's Nicole… she thought I might want to check in with her to see how everything's going,” Kurt said, smiling. “I'm so glad we hired her as our wedding planner.”

“And you aren't texting her back to say yes because...”

“Because what kind of person would I be if I were to abandon you on our wedding day.”

“You'd be you; the man I fell in love with who needs to see for himself that everything is running smoothly,” Blaine finished for Kurt.

They came together and shared a long tender hug and Kurt refused to let go even as they headed back into their honeymoon suite. Now that Kurt had Blaine's blessing, he quickly replied to Nicole to say he would meet up with her soon. Just not before he spent some quality time with his soon-to-be husband, because that was exactly how Kurt liked to operate. He might be all business most of the time, but ever since Blaine had walked into his life, Kurt had learned to appreciate, cherish and crave the quiet intimate moments he had brought with along with him.