Jan. 11, 2013, 2:42 p.m.
Another Time, Another Place: Chapter 13~The Right Direction~
E - Words: 7,162 - Last Updated: Jan 11, 2013 Story: Complete - Chapters: 47/47 - Created: Feb 04, 2012 - Updated: Jan 11, 2013 1,327 0 0 0 0
~The Right Direction~
School was over for another year, come the fall Blaine's junior year would begin and he had no idea what to expect. For now, he made himself focus on summer vacation, because as far as he was concerned, it was all positive. Right away Blaine had made the decision not to get a job of any kind, for a few reasons. The main one of course was Kurt: it was so wonderful for them to be able to spend so much time together, with no classes or glee practice to clog up the weekdays. They were still getting used to the idea of being in each other' s company for so long. As a result, they were learning the side effects and had talked at long lengths on how they didn't want to get sick of each other. They were still in the honeymoon stage, so neither of them had reached that point, but they wanted to keep it that way. After much insisting and long talks that almost went to argumentative proportions, they decided they needed to have days apart, to themselves. Today was one of those days, and Blaine was currently trying to figure out what to do, which was silly. Blaine had spent the first fifteen years of his life without a boyfriend after all, but now, spending one day apart was torture. Kurt had sent him a cute text that morning assuring Blaine he was missing him just as much. Only the prospect of them reuniting tomorrow kept them going along with it. Blaine had tried and failed to pass the time doing something that didn't involve Kurt. Now he was using the quiet moment to think of date ideas for them to do, since that also would be an issue, but not a bad one. Ohio wasn't the most exciting place to live in and coming up with fun dates could prove to be a challenge, one that Blaine was ready to tackle. He had been so focused on that that he didn't hear his mother approach, or her tap on his half opened bedroom door lightly to get his attention.
“Blaine.” Emily said, raising her voice slightly.
Blaine finally heard her and he looked up from his spot on the bed and smiled at her. “Sorry mom, my mind was elsewhere.” he muttered in apology.
“I gathered that, I'm also very surprised to find you here, alone.” Emily admitted with a small smile.
Blaine rolled his eyes mockingly, when in fact he was enjoying his mother's teasing, since it never really happened very often. Just having one of his parents acknowledge his relationship with Kurt and for it to be positive was very refreshing and welcomed. “Kurt and I don't want to be joined at the hip all the time, wait no that's a lie, we probably do... we just don't want to become sick of each other as a result.” Blaine explained.
“That's very mature of you both.” Emily said.
Blaine began to chuckle, “Hmm? Yeah, I guess, but I'd be lying if I didn't think it's too much torture!”
“You'll survive Blaine, you're a trouper after all, you always have been.” She assured her son.
“So what did you come to see me about?” Blaine asked, welcoming the distraction.
“Oh yes! I think you'll like what I have to tell you. Your father and I will both be home for the evening this Saturday. So I thought maybe Kurt could come over for dinner that night, what do you think, Blaine?” Emily suggested.
Blaine paused for a moment, even when he had already suggested the same thing to Kurt, for it to actually happen now was daunting. “I'd love that, so would Kurt, we've already talked about it earlier too. I'll check with him when we talk over the phone later tonight, but I don't see a problem...” Blaine answered as he tried to hide his underlining worry.
Emily knew her son well enough not to notice when he was affected by something more than he chose to show. She gave him a warm supportive smile and came to sit beside him on the bed, bringing her arm to rest over Blaine's shoulder. “Blaine, honey, you don't have to hide your feelings. I know at first it took me some time to come around after you came out. I truly regret that and I have been trying to make up for it. Don't ever think you can't come to me to talk about anything though, including your love life or your dad.” Emily told him softly.
Blaine cracked a small smile, “Mom don't even start...” Blaine began, but the rising emotion was choking his words. Blaine remembered the hurt brought forth by his parents not accepting that he was gay from the start. But it hadn't taken any of them very long to know deep down they stilled loved each other, were still a family. “You've been great and I'm so thankful... it's just... with dad... I...” Blaine stuttered, he gave up and let out a frustrated sigh.
“I know, Blaine, I know, this is just as hard for him. He's never been good with showing any emotion or weakness, in front of anyone. I wasn't going to go into it because it should come from his own mouth but Blaine... he's trying, he really is. Robert doesn't want to hurt you, his mind is pulling him in so many directions. When you got hurt at your old school, he took it really hard. As if it was the proof to what he was thinking, that you being gay would only cause you hardship. He's probably still hoping that this was a choice you made, one that can be changed.” Emily tried to explain.
“Yeah I got that when we built that car in the front yard...” Blaine muttered, not being able to hide the bitterness in his voice.
“When I brought up the subject of Kurt coming over for dinner he didn't say no, he didn't try to make up some excuse to why it wouldn't be convenient. He simply nodded and agreed it was a good idea, and I agreed with him. Having him get to know Kurt better will help, having him see you two together, how you're a normal teenage couple. Information is the best way to stop ignorance, especially first hand examples.” Emily pointed out.
“You're right, so that's what I'll do, and I know Kurt would agree with me if he were here.” Blaine admitted.
Emily gave her son's shoulder a light squeeze before she stood up and headed for the door, she touched the door frame and turned to look back at Blaine, a playful grin on her face. “Blaine, just go see him now and save yourself the heartache.” she urged.
__________________________________________________________________
Kurt wasn't fairing any better with his day away from Blaine, though he was being more stubborn about it, true to his nature. He was currently busy with searching the internet for summer clothing bargains. Hunting for designer clothing at affordable prices was tough, but when he found something, that made it so much more rewarding. He missed Blaine, missed hearing his voice, kissing his lips, just being in his company. They hadn't even been apart for twenty four hours, but to him, it felt like it had been days, months even.
“And what do we have here?” A voice suddenly announced from the foot of the stairs.
Kurt let out a tiny shriek at the sudden noise, startling far too much than he liked to admit. Kurt's heart began to race as he forced himself to calm down and saw Blaine Anderson, grinning from ear to ear a short distance away. “Blaine! What are you doing here!” he blurted out in surprise.
“So this is a welcomed surprise, right? I'm allowed to come over and kiss you hello?” Blaine asked.
“Why aren't you already here smooching me!” Kurt laughed as he started to get up from his bed.
“I might be weak but I'm still a gentleman.” Blaine responded as he walked over to Kurt.
The two of them met each other half way and they began to laugh, happy to be together at last, neither one of them caring they couldn't last a full day apart. Kurt brought his arms to rest over Blaine's shoulders, clasping his hands behind Blaine's neck. He kissed Blaine, softly at first, on the corner of his mouth. “But that's no fun when it comes to kissing.” Kurt whispered.
Blaine seemed to agree and their next kiss couldn't be called anything proper, but that's just how they liked it. Blaine got so wrapped up as they began to kiss and make out, he forgot his whole reason for coming over, thus breaking their rule. “I missed you, is it pathetic that I missed you so much?” he asked.
Kurt chuckled lightly as he kissed Blaine again, talking could be annoying at times, it meant the kissing had to stop. “No, it's not pathetic Blaine, it's...” Kurt replied as he tried to think of the proper word for the answer.
“....amazing, wonderful, terrifying, marvellous, incredible, superb?” Blaine offered, as he began to list words.
“Miraculous.” Kurt finally chose. “It's a true miracle, when I think how I've found my perfect match.” Kurt commented.
“So uh, now that we've agreed on what it is, I guess it's time I explain why I'm here.” Blaine said.
“You didn't just come to make out?” Kurt teased.
Blaine rolled his eyes at Kurt, gosh his boyfriend could be so adorable and it was very distracting. “No, I did not. I actually had a far more noble reason for showing up here.” Blaine said as he handed Kurt a white envelope.
Kurt eyed the piece of paper quizzically and looked back at Blaine, who showed him no answers on his face. Kurt sighed and opened the letter up and he smiled in delight, it was an invitation, hand written with beautiful calligraphy. “Only my boyfriend would invite me over to a family dinner with an actual hand written invitation.” Kurt declared.
“I thought the designer and planner in you would approve.” Blaine replied. “Is that a yes?”
“Of course it is Blaine, you dummy! But are you sure? I know we talked about it before but... I don't want to make things anymore uncomfortable between you and your dad.” Kurt pointed out.
“You won't, this is a good idea, Kurt, you'll see.” Blaine assured him.
“Then on Saturday I'll be there, and I'll dress to impress.” Kurt winked back at Blaine. Kurt smiled at him warmly and that was that, he found no need to press Blaine further about it. In fact, he was very happy to discover Blaine was his usual cheerful and optimistic self. Kurt pulled him over to the couch and they sat next to each other, coming to cuddle and get all snuggled.
“So what did you do to pass the time today?” Blaine asked, changing the subject.
“It's predictable, I'm sure, but I was shopping, not a smart move to do, I might have over spent a bit this time.” Kurt admitted. “How about you?”
“I tried to come up with date ideas, now that we have much more time together.” Blaine answered.
“Oh? I've been thinking about that as well, before I started shopping. I mean, really, it's nothing to worry about! Just, it's hard to keep things from being boring, to the point of it being routine and lacking any spontaneity.” Kurt agreed.
Blaine' s eyes went from Kurt's face to begin to stare at his lips proactively and he smirked. “I have one idea...”
Kurt laughed and pushed at Blaine playfully, only to pull him back and kiss him, causing them to forget about talking for a moment. “Besides kissing, Blaine!” Kurt shouted as he got back on track and threw one of his new cushions at Blaine's face.
“You mean there's better things to do than make out?” Blaine teased, but when he saw Kurt go for another cushion he put his hands up in surrender. “Okay I'll be good, put the pillow down!” he said dramatically. Blaine was wondering why they had even bothered to spend the day apart, he couldn't begin to think he'd ever tire of being with Kurt Hummel, at least not so soon into their relationship. Every day Blaine discovered something new to fawn over, to be grateful for; it was so rewarding just to know Kurt and being included in his life. “I don't think we're doing so bad so far, as far as dates go. I mean, at first we stuck to staying under the radar but that's no longer necessary. Since us dating has become old news, we've gone on plenty of fun dates: movies, dinner, coffee of course, we even saw a musical.” Blaine started to list off.
“Yes that's true...” Kurt admitted. “That's what one usually thinks dates are, I'm sure we'll come up with other ideas as time goes on. I honestly don't know why I get so worked up over the littlest thing sometimes.” Kurt murmured bashfully.
“I think it's cute.” Blaine commented as he leaned over and kissed Kurt on the cheek. “I happen to enjoying every single day of my life, since we've met, drama aside, and I really liked being included in the New Directions' celebration last week. It gave me a chance to get to know your friends better. After hearing you ramble on and on about them, or most of the time complaining, I felt like I knew them already. It was nice to actually speak to them and see if what I had come up in my mind was correct.” Blaine explained.
“I think you managed to charm everyone...well maybe not everyone. I doubt anyone could win over Santana...” Kurt said with a chuckle.
“I know, I tried and failed miserably.” Blaine said with a groan.
“She asked me which one of us topped at the party.” Kurt admitted with similar groan.
“Oh my god!” Blaine said in horror.
“I know, I almost died! I simply informed her it was none of her business. But I did get so bold as to add that we're not so careless to jump into bed so soon.” Kurt said with pride.
“Very nicely handled, handsome.” Blaine nodded in approval. “Thanks for agreeing to come over on Saturday. I can't wait for my parents to be able to get to know you better. I have a feeling they'll fall under your spell rather quickly, or my mom will at least.” Blaine added.
Kurt laced his fingers with Blaine's as they sat next to each other on the couch. “I aim to please.”
“Which leaves us still free today...” Blaine began.
Kurt let out a throaty laugh as he allowed Blaine to pull himself to lie on top of Blaine as they stretched out on the couch, and they stopped talking for a long while, and started making up for lost time.
__________________________________________________________________
The next day Blaine and Kurt didn't bother to try staying apart again, until it would actually be needed. Instead, they spent the whole glorious day together, starting out with them going shopping. Kurt might have over spent his current clothing budget already, but Blaine, it turned out, needed to replenish his summer wardrobe. A fact that Kurt was excited to hear and he set off into shopper mode. For some people, shopping might be seen as a chore, but for Kurt Hummel, it was an art form. Blaine didn't bother to hide his amusement as he watched Kurt mumble in thought, as he tried to figure out the best store to check out first. Apparently, Blaine's style, personal likes, height, complexion, body frame, budget, and taste all had to be taken in account. Blaine loved clothes, to add to the gay cliche, and he loved to look his best, but he soon came to realize, not on his boyfriend's level. “It's kind of funny how you love clothes but you don't come here to shop that much.” Blaine pointed out.
Kurt looked away from the mall directory to Blaine, “Oh I do. But I quickly learned there is very little available for the fashionable guy in Ohio. At least when it comes to the brand names that count. So I do most of my shopping online, it's really the only way I can afford half of the stuff I want.” Kurt explained.
Blaine soon found himself being lead from store to store as Kurt searched for the perfect summer ensemble for him, as Kurt had put it. All the while Blaine never felt the smallest urge to complain; on the contrary, he was having the time of his life. Kurt would pick out several articles of clothing and that would lead to Blaine putting on a fashion show, stepping out of the change room each time to hear Kurt's opinion. Sometimes it was a hit, while others a miss and while Kurt was clearly taking charge of things, he was careful to not go too far. If Blaine didn't like something Kurt urged him to admit it and Kurt wouldn't try to change his mind in return. He was taking extra care in never becoming bossy or controlling and it wasn't missed by Blaine. He could tell how much effort Kurt was putting in a simple shopping trip and that touched him. The whole ordeal was still exhausting to live through, but a few strenuous hours later, Blaine had enough coordination clothing choices to last him the entire summer and more. They finished putting the many shopping bags in the trunk of Kurt's navigator and Blaine turned to give Kurt a big smile. What he really wanted to do was kiss him, but they had been trying to keep such urges in check. “Well, I think I'm set for the rest of the summer, thanks Kurt.” Blaine told him.
“Anytime.” Kurt replied playfully.
Blaine walked over to the passenger's side of the car and piled inside, he watched Kurt begin to start the engine. “So where to, now? I'd say my place to put this all away. But I feel like after all that work I should thank you somehow... would a coffee at the Lima Bean be too repetitive?” Blaine asked.
Kurt made a scoffing noise as he backed up out of the parking spot, “No, of course not! It's where we first met! We owe that coffee shop a lot, so it's only natural to visit it and keep being happy regulars. I also will admit us sharing a drink at the Lima Bean quickly became the highlight of the day for me, even back when we were just friends.” Kurt admitted.
“I honestly almost forget there was a time when we were that clueless.” Blaine added.
They soon found themselves at their usual table, chatting away like it was any other day, the only difference was that Blaine wasn't in his Dalton uniform. Kurt started to imagine what it would be like if when their junior year started, the blazer never went back on, because they went to the same school. How they could watch the weekly assignments in glee instead of just talking about them. The idea that Kurt could see Blaine's smiling face, beaming at him as he sang in the choir room was very alluring. But Kurt kept this train of thoughts to himself, it was far too selfish to voice. Instead he decided to bring up a slightly safer topic, still relating to music. “You know it's funny, I find myself missing my weekly glee assignments. Mainly because of how much I liked having you help me with them.” Kurt admitted.
“Okay seriously this is getting scary! I've been thinking the same thing. It's made me wish I had something like that. Don't get the wrong, the Warblers are great and we might not have projects like the New Directions, but it's still challenging. In fact I'm slightly worried I'll get lazy over the summer. Usually I take a job singing at Six Flags to keep the performer in me in shape, but this time I have no real desire to do so.” Blaine explained.
“Don't let dating me make you soft Blaine! I'll have none of that.” Kurt warned.
“Listen to you, you drama queen! I'm just saying I kind of wish there was someway to stay in the game.” Blaine muttered. Blaine looked across the table at Kurt, who had placed his drink down and Blaine could almost see the turbines begin to turn in his brain, setting one of his brilliant ideas off in motion. He allowed Kurt to have his moment of silence so he could think, but Blaine's curiosity soon got the better of him and he couldn't contain it for any longer. “Where have you gone?” he asked softly.
Kurt blinked back into focus, “Oh sorry... I was just thinking...”
“I gathered, what about?”
“How we could have our own song assignment of some sort, but not just a weekly one. How we could possibly make it even more...I dunno, something. The ideas still in its infancy Blaine, so I'm not sure what this could lead to. Give me some time to muse it over and I'll get back to you over the next few days.” Kurt offered.
“Sure, why don't we both try to come up with possibilities? Then we can talk it over once we have some.” Blaine suggested.
“A challenge to come up with a good challenge, I like it.” Kurt agreed.
_________________________________________________________________
The day before the fated dinner, Blaine had a very surprising phone call, just after he and Kurt had said their goodbyes for the day, when his phone rang. Blaine had thought it was Kurt already and his facial expression hardened for a moment when he saw it was Cooper, but he quickly smiled as he pressed the answer button.
“Blainey!” Cooper's excited voice boomed through the speaker. “At long last we get to talk! I've missed hearing my baby brother' s voice.” he added.
“Hi Coop, yeah it's been a while.” Blaine replied.
“It seems I'm not the only one who's busy though, what's this I hear about you having a boyfriend?” Cooper demanded
Blaine sighed, “Mom told you, didn't she?” he grumbled.
“I'm almost hurt that you didn't yourself, Blaine.” Cooper said dramatically in reply.
“Because I feared how much you'd tease me.” Blaine joked. “Sorry though, it's not like I was hiding him from you...” Blaine began to say in defence.
“Then give me details, Blaine! I demand information! What's he like? When did you two meet? How did the whole courting go about? Have you gotten lucky yet?” Cooper began to ask, never giving a Blaine a chance to answer as he began to ramble.
“Whoa slow down, Cooper! Let me answer a question before you start the next one.” Blaine muttered in protest, some of those questions, the last one especially, he didn't even want to answer. “We met in the spring, started dating about two months later... more or less. He's.... god Cooper where do I begin, he's everything I ever dreamed my first boyfriend would be like. No, that's not true, he's more. His name is Kurt Hummel, he's a sophomore like me, or was, we'll be juniors next year. You'll like this part, he's in a glee club too and his voice, it's...” Blaine began to gush, forgetting how all this information would only lead to more teasing, knowing his brother's personality.
“I do believe you're in love, Blainey.” Cooper suddenly commented.
Blaine stopped talking, he hadn't admitted this to anyone yet and it was hard to at first. “I can't deny that...” he admitted sheepishly.
“I could almost cry, because you know I can bring forth a tear no matter what the situation is! This is splendid news, it makes me wanna catch the next flight to Ohio so I can meet him!”
“Oh no! No, it's not needed....I'm sure you're far too busy in LA.” Blaine shouted out in alarm. He wasn't ready for Kurt to meet his brother and find out first hand how unimaginably attractive he was, it had been hard enough to come to terms with that fact before Blaine had gotten a boyfriend.
“Are you afraid he'd fall for my charm?” Cooper teased.
“I'm afraid he'll be caught under your spell...” Blaine muttered, when in truth he trusted Kurt completely.
“You're no fun, fine if you won't let me meet him. Send me a photo of him! I want to see what kind of guy my brother finds sexy.” Cooper urged.
“Can you not say that word?” Blaine whined.
“What word?” Cooper asked innocently.
Blaine was growing tired of the whole charade, so much that he felt like hanging up the call. But he knew from experience Cooper would just call back and keep calling until he answered. “Don't make me say it...” Blaine grumbled.
“I guess you're not having sex yet if you can't even say the word.” Cooper said.
“Not that it's any of your business, but no! We just started dating after all, I know most adults think all teenagers, especially the gay ones, just want to jump right in and start having sex. But that's not what we want, he means too much to me.” Blaine explained.
“That's not a bad thing Blaine, believe me, if it's what you both want, don't feel the need to defend the choice.” Cooper told him, suddenly becoming serious. “I'm really happy for you Blaine, that you've found someone.” he added.
“Thanks Coop.” Blaine replied.
“Now show me a photo!” Cooper demanded.
Blaine sighed as he brought up his photo collection and set to sending a picture to Cooper's computer from his laptop. He waited for the time it would take for his brother to bring the photo up and he heard the exact moment when Cooper began to squeal and Blaine's mouth fell wide open. “What are you a teenage girl now?” Blaine laughed.
“My god Blaine! I might be straight but even I can tell you are one lucky bastard. Good job roping this one, he's got a nice ass.” Cooper said without holding anything back, making special empathize when he said the word ass.
“...don't!... just stop!” Blaine blurted out in embarrassment.
________________________________________________________________
Before they could tackle the song assignment challenge, there was the issue of Kurt having dinner with Blaine's parents first to conquer. Not that 'issue' was a good word to describe it, because it wasn't like Blaine's parents had shown any resistance to Kurt in any way. Kurt had picked up on Robert's insecurity of how to react around Kurt and the idea of his son having a boyfriend, but he had never felt any hostility. Kurt kept assuring himself it would be fine, this was the right step to take, it could only make things better. But He still couldn't stop the nerves building in the pit of his stomach and that became clear as he hopelessly began to search for the perfect outfit. Forty minuets later and Kurt still had little luck and he was dealing with the frustration by being very loud in his annoyance.
“Dude are you okay? It sounds like your fighting a bear or something.” Finn called from his side of the room.
“How would that even sound, Finn? No I am not fighting a bear, just fighting my closet in trying to find a perfect outfit!” Kurt cursed.
Finn chose to find out first hand and he opened the door that connected their room on the divider, figuring there was no need to knock before hand, he found Kurt was scowling at a large mountain of clothing piled up on his bed. “I know you like to look good... but this seems crazy even for you.” Finn muttered as he tried to figure out what had him so worked up.
Kurt's first instinct was to turn and glare at Finn in annoyance, but he quickly made himself begin to relax. Finn was saying nothing that could be seen as rude: if anything, his concern was touching. “I'm going over to Blaine's house for dinner, with his parents, for the first time. I want to have the perfect look...and a full suit might be a bit much....” Kurt tried to explain, not really expecting Finn to relate to what he was getting at.
“Oh, well I get that, I remember the first time I met Rachel's dads. After we started dating I mean, god I was sweating so much.” Finn muttered as he relived the moment in his mind.
Kurt rolled his eyes and pulled out another shirt to examine, “I've met them both before. It's just that this is the first time I'll really be spending any time with them. I want them to like me.” Kurt muttered.
“Are they okay... with you know... Blaine being gay?” Finn asked reluctantly, clearly not sure how to ask.
Kurt paused to put his shirt down, turning so he could look at Finn, he was surprised to find him trying so hard to talk about such things, but Kurt was equally grateful for the gesture. Finn might not have the come easy wisdom that his dad did, but he was trying and that was something. He began to think how much Kurt could tell Finn about Blaine's family. He figured Blaine wouldn't mind if he shared some of the details, at least the ones that weren't too personal. “It's hard to explain exactly, regarding Blaine's parents and him coming out. From what he's told me, they were both surprised at first, they were worried about what it would bring. Neither of them were sure how to react, and his mom was the first one to come around and accept it. When it comes to his dad, that's more complicated, sadly. Blaine says he doesn't know how to deal with it and it shows when they're together. Since Blaine's sexuality became known, their overall relationship has been strained. From what I've seen first hand, it' s going to take them a while to recover...” Kurt explained softly, hoping what he was saying was the true, or rather accurate. Because Kurt wished it wasn't true, he wished that Blaine had met instant acceptance like he had. Kurt reminded himself that Blaine had still a better offer than the countless others who had been brave enough to come out to their families, to the point of being disowned or thrown out of the house. “So there's a lot of pressure...” Kurt added with a shrug, not knowing how to end the sentence, so he didn't bother to try.
“That sucks...” Finn simply replied.
Kurt could only nod in agreement. “But Blaine still wants me to come over and I agree with him. We both think it will help, having his dad seeing us together, it might help him come to accept it. Just it's hard, I'm like a living breathing reminder to him that his son is gay and it's not just a phase. So needless to say I'm a conflicted pile of stress and emotion right now and the result is me grunting and moaning like I'm, as you put it, battling some beast, instead of choosing an outfit.” Kurt muttered as he brought his attention back to his bed and the pile of clothes.
“Uh well... that sounds like a good idea... sorry I honestly dunno what to say that could be helpful here. Especially when it comes to what to wear.” Finn replied.
Kurt laughed at that, “That certainly is true, but thanks for trying.” Kurt replied. Finn laughed himself and then headed back to his room.
Once left to his thoughts Kurt went back to his task at hand. Talking to Finn had helped him realize he didn't need to stress himself over the whole ordeal too much. Or he should at least try not to.
Finally a half hour later Kurt was dressed and ready to head off. He took out his phone to send Blaine a text first.
I'm heading over now.
Kurt then made his way out to the car, once he got in the drivers seat he heard his phone get a text alert.
We're all ready for you here.
Blaine, of course, was already waiting for Kurt outside in his driveway, trying to act natural and not show how nervous he was inside. His restless mind was wiped blank when he watched his boyfriend step out of the car and Blaine could only stare at what he saw. Kurt was dressed head to toe in an outfit that could only begin to be described as stunning. Kurt was wearing a deep blue dinner jacket, that clung to his body with tailored perfection. Underneath the jacket was a simple but flawless grey turtleneck shirt, and a pair of denim blue jeans, that weren't as tight as he usually wore, but it didn't lessen the effect of the whole combination. As Kurt got closer Blaine noticed the last two smaller details, which were a pair of silver skull cufflinks and a white handkerchief folded in the jacket's breast pocket. Blaine began to laugh and grin at Kurt in approval and his reaction didn't go past Kurt, who whirled around to give him a good look.
“Is it too much?” Kurt asked nervously.
“Oh lord no! You look sensational Kurt! But now I feel homely in comparison.” Blaine blurted out in assurance.
Kurt looked Blaine up and done and he shook his head in disagreement, Blaine looked equally impressive as far as he was concerned. Dressed in a grey double breasted cardigan, navy blue dress shirt, maroon and navy bow-tie, that matched his warbler tie in print, and a pair of slim fitting, by Blaine's standards, blue-grey trousers. “Don't be so hard on yourself Blaine, you look dazzling.” Kurt announced.
With both of their state of dress dealt with and approved by their significant others, that left only one thing. Blaine held his hand out of Kurt, offering his support but in turn seeking Kurt's with the touch of his hand would bring. Kurt took it and they walked back to the front door, hand in hand, their fingers laced together. “This will be fine Kurt, we're being ridiculous.” Blaine commented.
“We are, aren't we?” Kurt admitted with a chuckle.
“Ready for it anyway?” Blaine asked.
Kurt nodded, “Yep.” he answered cutely. Kurt threw away all the doubt in his mind as they walked together, head on. Because what they had just said was true, they would be fine, this was nothing to be nervous about. Though Kurt figured he was allowed some discomfort, as anyone would the first time you had dinner with your boyfriend's parents. He would simply forget about any other facts and lay on the charm, like Blaine had done to his own family. Kurt followed Blaine into the kitchen and Blaine's parents were nowhere to be found.
“Mom, Kurt's here.” Blaine called out from the kitchen.
“I'm in the dinning room!” Emily Anderson called back to them.
Blaine and Kurt exchanged amused looks as they headed into the dinning room, to find Blaine's mother was putting the final touches on their dinner. She gave Kurt a warm smile in greeting and urged them to come in closer. “Welcome Kurt, I'm glad you came. I've been bothering Blaine to have you over for dinner for a while. It's only taken this long because Robert and I are so busy.” Emily told Kurt.
“I'm glad to be here, Mrs. Anderson.” Kurt said warmly.
“Oh please just call me Emily! Mrs. Anderson makes me sound so old! I know I'm almost pushing fifty but let's not go that far.” Emily scoffed.
“You don't look it, I was very surprised to discover Blaine has an older brother by almost ten years.” Kurt explained.
“I don't know why I ended up being the first one to tell you anything about Cooper, Kurt.” Emily pointed out.
“Mom...” Blaine hissed in protest.
Robert Anderson chose that moment to step into the dinning room, and Blaine was very relieved he did, ending the teasing conversation. “Hey dad.” he stated, trying to sound casual.
Blaine's father looked over at the three of them and his gaze settled on Kurt and his look actually softened, ever so slightly when he did. “Hello Kurt, thank you for joining us.” He told him, it was very polite, as if slightly forced, but it held no malice.
Kurt glanced at Blaine and gave Robert a weak smile in return. “Hi Mr. Anderson, it's my pleasure.” he said in reply.
The pleasantries done and dealt with, the four of them sat down at the table, Kurt with Blaine on his left, Emily on the right. Robert had surprised Blaine by sitting beside Blaine instead of his wife and Blaine showed it by smiling at him thoughtfully.
“Help yourself boys, I don't get to make dinner very often, so this is a rare treat.” Emily explained.
“You'd never know, this is delicious.” Kurt announced as he finished his mouth full of dinner.
“And here comes the charm.” Blaine muttered with affection.
“Like you can even talk about that, Blaine. You should have seen him the first time he had dinner with my family.” Kurt announced.
“I have a good idea.” Emily laughed.
Robert remained silent at first, but he made the effort to listen to the conversation, even when he wasn't sure how to jump in himself. As they began to eat their dinner, Blaine couldn't help but notice how a long silence started after the first few words. It was hard to stop himself from having his usual banter with Kurt, and Blaine wasn't sure he wanted to anyway. When he had come over for dinner at Kurt's house, it had been hard to get a word in at times. But then even he was having trouble at thinking of something to talk about. Emily seemed to notice this and she tried to start the chatter back up again.
“So have any plans for the summer, Kurt?” Emily asked.
“Um... not really.. just the usual. Spend time with my friends and such. Oh and I'll probably work a bit at my dad's to earn some money.” Kurt replied. “I have very expensive clothing tastes.” he added with a smile.
“Kurt's dad, Burt, owns a tire and lube shop.” Blaine explained. “Hummel tire and lube or something...” Blaine muttered.
“Close enough.” Kurt shrugged with a chuckle.
Robert surprised them all but finally speaking, as he looked over at Blaine and Kurt. “I've heard of it, good service, your dad knows what he's doing. So I take it you know about fixing cars, then?” Robert asked, not sure what Kurt's answer would be.
Kurt was more than happy to start an actual conversation with Blaine's dad, so he nodded. “Yes, it was hard not to when I was growing up. I have many memories of running around the shop and my dad saying I could actually learn something instead of causing a ruckus. I actually found it interesting for the most part and it's nice to have a part time job whenever the need arises. I must say I lay in wait for the day when my car blows a tire. Hopefully when someone' s with me so I can surprise them with the fact that I know how to properly change it!” Kurt was with a superior smile.
“It's something every man should know.” Robert agreed.
Blaine could barely ignore the slight undertone his father had given off with that comment. But he didn't call him out on it, instead he let it go, since Blaine was sure it hadn't been intentional. He was treated with having an enjoyable conversation about cars with his dad and boyfriend and his mom was fine to let them take over and for her just to sit back and listen. Kurt began to describe his Navigator and some of his favourite classic cars. Though Kurt was being slightly more enthusiastic than he normally was about cars, but conversations with parents often went that way. Robert had gone on to tell them all about the first car he had owned and the pride he felt in keeping it running, despite it's many faults. There was a lull at the end when Kurt began to talk to Emily about fashion trends and Robert' s usual uncertain demeanour returned, but the fact that Kurt knew about cars, something deemed manly, had clearly made Robert aware of some of his misgivings about gay people in general.
Kurt used the opportunity to find a bit more about Blaine's mysterious older brother, who Blaine himself wasn't giving much detail. “So I find myself all curious: what was Blaine like growing up with Cooper?” he asked.
Blaine let out a small groan, this question could lead to so many embarrassing stories.
“It was very interesting, they were an entertaining duo. One minute they'd be singing along and dancing, putting on mini concerts. Then Blaine would be begging him to play and Cooper would start complaining that he was too old to participate in any baby games. They'd argue, get all stubborn and just when I thought I had to step in, they'd be sitting watching a musical together.” Emily answered.
It wasn't as bad as Blaine had dreaded as he listened to his mother, and even his father now and then, beginning to tell his boyfriend some of his childhood stories. The look on Kurt's face, full of delight and excitement was the reward and made any embarrassment quickly forgotten. He was also relieved that some things were being left out, how Cooper always criticized Blaine, how he felt like he was living him his brother' s shadow at times.
Before they knew it the food was all gone and their stomachs were far too full and the dinner had come to a close. Kurt and Blaine had made their retreat to Blaine's bedroom afterwards, but not before Robert reminded them not to have Kurt stay for too late, which was his way to tell them he'd have no funny business of any sort. Blaine had taken the warning in stride, though he almost felt like making out with Kurt in defiance, but they didn't. As addictive as kissing his boyfriend could be, Blaine wanted to talk. “Well I suppose that went as well as I hoped it would be.” Blaine replied.
“It went very well, by my regard.” Kurt replied.
Kurt smiled, Blaine was being adorable, silly, but cute and it was finally his turn to comfort him once more. Kurt flashed him a witty grin and he approached him, capturing Blaine in his arms and kissing his mouth, and then his neck playfully. He wasn't about to let the kissing take over, since he knew Blaine wanted to talk and so did Kurt. “I know you think my dad and I have some perfect father-son relationship, but I need to point out, that's not true. Yes he accepted that I was gay right away, but it wasn't any easier for the both of us, at least to a point. We love each other, but we still don't have a lot in common. The same goes for you and your dad Blaine, but even I could tell he was trying.” Kurt pointed out.
“I know, I'm being childish.” Blaine replied with a frown.
Kurt gave Blaine an encouraging smile and he kissed him again, the kiss was tender and sweet, just the type Kurt knew he liked. “If anything cutie, it's a start in the right direction.”