Irony could often be a buzz kill for anyone and Kurt and Blaine, with a mere week away before they'd have to face the music, they didn't find anything ironically amusing. At the idea of their time together soon to be cut in half neither young man was dealing very well with the idea, leading to an odd occurrence where they weren't talking through their troubles, or saying what they honestly felt on the inside. With the last big event to look forward to being over they should have used the lull to get to real issues; instead their stubbornness wasn't helping them.

Kurt sat at their table in the Lima Bean as Blaine was getting their drinks and he let out a tired sigh, why was he fighting it so much? But Kurt was torn, it all came back to worrying he wasn't pulling the weight in their relationship. If Kurt did ask Blaine if he could transfer then he would be taking selfishness to a new level. If Blaine were considering it on his own, he would have said something to Kurt by now, or at least that's what Kurt thought.

Blaine ending up proving him wrong thought not completely, but he still chose to acknowledge what they had been trying to ignore. “Okay... I wasn't going to say anything but I can't take it anymore!”

“Are you alright?” Kurt simply asked.

“Do we just keep ignoring what's bothering us? Or should we maybe... I dunno try to talk about it? This isn't like us, Kurt, even you must see that.” Blaine pressed, not letting the subject drop that easily.

Even with Blaine's gentle prodding Kurt still didn't feel that much more confident, if anything Blaine's wanting to talk made him feel more guilty. Kurt reached out and took hold of Blaine's hand, to reassure him a little. “I don't want to lie to you, Blaine, but if I'm going be honest instead... normally I'd say we should talk. I mean just as you said it's what we do best but this time, I don't think I can. Not yet, sorry. I swear it's not you it's me...” Kurt began and then he realized how pathetic that sounded. “Oh, my god what's wrong with me! That's a clique break up line so don't get any ideas...” Kurt sputtered off.

“It's okay, I wasn't thinking that, let's just wait a bit then. If you say it's nothing big then I'm fine to leave it at that. Let's just try to enjoy these last week okay? I hope you got some fun dates planned.” Blaine replied, changing the subject.

Blaine simply watched as Kurt took over the conversation, he was fine to let things be and simmer for a while. But deep down he was still wondering what had Kurt so reluctant to talk to him about and if it had anything to do with his own dilemma. Blaine knew it could possibly be one in the same and they were both silently fretting over the idea of Blaine transferring to McKinley. The main reason Blaine was fine with not bringing this notion up was that Blaine himself didn't know what his own feelings on the matter were. Did he actually want to leave Dalton, a place that had been his sanctuary against bullies which he knew McKinley had? Yes, he loved Kurt and wanted to spend as much time as possible with him and yes, he wanted to stop running. But the fact of the matter was it was still a very hard decision he would have to make, one that would take a lot of thought. When Blaine thought back to the first time his considering to transfer had occurred, it was back during Regionals for the New Directions, when Blaine had merely been in the audience he got the sudden desire to be up on stage with them.

Finally, when Kurt realized Blaine wasn't really listening to anything he had to say, he knew they had to admit some truth. If he couldn't suggest transferring they could at least address the fact that soon they'd be back to spending time after school and on the weekends. “Look Blaine, this isn't working so this is me answering your gentle prodding from before. I'm gonna miss you, a lot when school starts again, and it's hard for that not to bring me down right now.” Kurt admitted, which was all true.

Blaine was more than willing to jump into this discussion because it could help him make his mind up over his bigger problem. “Kurt, we know this is going to suck. Us not getting to be together all the time. I know we still need some space and to spend time apart to be in a healthy relationship. But the summer break has been wonderful and I felt so close to you during it. But the truth is we're gonna make this work no matter what.” Blaine explained.

Kurt had to smile at that note and he tried his best to take in some of Blaine's natural optimism. “We did make it work when we were friends first and in different schools and when we started to date. At least this time we won't have to worry about being discovered by our own glee clubs too, so that's something.” Kurt added with a weak smile.

“We have a lot to be thankful for.” Blaine concluded.

“I think our love can handle it.” Kurt stated.

“That's a understatement, Kurt.” Blaine grinned.
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In hopes of weening themselves off from always being together Blaine and Kurt agreed it might be good to spend some time during the final two weeks with their friends. This way they could get used to being apart and do some damage control from almost abandoning their comrades during the summer vacation. Kurt chose to try something that had worked the last time and threw a sleep over party at his own house with Mercedes and Rachel. This was possible for the first time because Finn had agreed to go spend the night at a friend's so he wouldn't be around and Rachel would be distracted by her boyfriend. Once they were all decked out in Pjs, eating junk food and snuggled up on Kurt's bed watching a movie on his laptop, Kurt was finally able to tell someone about his problem pertaining Blaine and the idea of him transferring. When he got to the part that he failed to bring the subject up to his boyfriend Mercedes didn't hesitate to call him out.

“So you chickened out and didn't ask Blaine to transfer?” Mercedes asked Kurt with an annoyed tone.

Kurt rolled his eyes at Mercedes and snatched away the bowl of popcorn she was holding as punishment. He hadn't counted on his lady friends ganging up on him and making him feeling even worse. “Not everything is easy to say, even for Blaine and I. We're still teenagers, still human... cut me some slack here.” Kurt grumbled.

“Why didn't you tell him then?” Rachel asked, giving him a chance to explain his actions.

Kurt gave her a grateful smile, handing her the desired bowl of popcorn in thanks and he took a deep breath. “I mean... I don't want to seem pushy. Asking Blaine to leave Dalton is no simple request. I would be asking a lot of him, making him leave a ton behind. I've been to Dalton, girls, I've seen how adored the Warblers are. How popular Blaine is there, not only would I be making him leave all that: I'd pretty much be stealing one of Ohio's best performers away from his glee club. All this sounds way too selfish for me and I've already been in a grey area with that already.” Kurt moped.

“Kurt, this is Blaine, I don't think you wanting him to be with you at school is anything he'll thinks you're selfish about.” Rachel said.

“You don't think I don't know that? I know my boyfriend, Rachel. Blaine would think it's all romantic and I bet he'd start to think maybe he should transfer. Because I know he'd try to tell me it isn't a big deal and maybe it wouldn't be. But what if it is? What if Blaine transferring, all because I asked him to, just starts us on a wrong path? One that could lead to bitter resentment and... oh god, I can barely say it... a break up.” Kurt muttered with a horrific shudder.

“Don't you think you're being a little dramatic here, Kurt?” Mercedes asked, making sure to keep her tone considerate.

“Yes I'm being dramatic, but the pressure Blaine's transferring could bring it's all too much for me to take. If Blaine brings it up on his own then that's different, then I can just support his choice. I love him like crazy and for once, I won't let him make everything be all for me and for my sake. Up until now I'm the one who's gone through way more drama and it's all because I'm enrolled at McKinley.” Kurt began to grumble, when he saw alarm on his friends face he realized what that sounded like. “Don't worry, I won't be running off to Dalton. You guys in the New Directions are stuck with me.” He assured with a weak grin.

Rachel and Mercedes gave him cute smiles and came at Kurt at both sides with supportive hugs and for once Kurt just took what they were offering. “It's not so bad, if it wasn't so close to school starting I'd be way better off. I just don't want to pressure Blaine into anything where he'd make the wrong choice.” Kurt said in closing.

“What if him not transferring is the wrong choice?” Mercedes challenged.

Kurt eyed them playfully and he felt his usually sassy attitude begin to return to him. “Are you two maybe wanting Blaine to join our ranks to ensure our win at Nationals?” he accused, though he was clearly teasing them.

“Now that's the Kurt Hummel we know and love.” Mercedes declared with a grin.

Kurt laughed at the comment but he wanted to ask one final question before he'd switch to lighter and more fun conversation. “Okay one final piece of advice here, ladies, and then we'll let the gab-fest begin. What would either of you do right now, if you were me and in my current situation?” he pressed.

Mercedes and Rachel look at each other, then back to Kurt and he waited for their reply.

“You might not like it, but I'd talk to Blaine.” Mercedes answered.

“I'd do the same, just make sure to let him know it's his decision. But even if his answer's no, I can't see it affecting you two.” Rachel added.

Kurt sighed, he was right back where he started then, little help his sleep-over ploy did. Oh well, there was no helping it, he supposed.

“Exactly.” Mercedes went on saying, showing she wasn't done yet. “It might not be easy, but all you have to do is look in your heart. If you did that...I'm sure you'll find your answer, Kurt.” she added.

Kurt gave them both an affectionate smile, he might have loved Blaine and didn't find girls desirable in the romantic or sexual sense, but he sure did appreciate their friendship. He took back the popcorn bowl and tossed a few kernels into his mouth with a sigh. “Remember when my biggest problem was getting tossed into the dumpster every day?” he said with a smirk.
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Blaine didn't feel the urge to talk to his own buddies about possibly leaving Dalton, since his closest friends were members of the Warblers. He didn't want to bring them down if in the end he didn't transfer, but by this point Blaine had a feeling he knew the answer already. Blaine wanted to be with Kurt, to be with him when he faced the bullies, to become a member of the New Directions. Maybe Blaine's added voice, even if he had to fight for solos like everyone else, could help them get to Nationals. Blaine didn't regret going to Dalton, even if he said it was running because it was ,but sometimes there was no other option. Fight or flight wasn't always the case and now Blaine had been given a chance. He had met the love of his life, his best friend, a person he felt truly connected to and who gave him so much courage. Kurt had entered his life at the best possible time, when Blaine thought he had everything he could ask for. Now after falling in love and being shown Kurt's world Blaine was discovering there was more to life and possible better greener pastures ahead.

Blaine of course knew if he did enrol at McKinley it wouldn't all be singing romantic duets and walking hand in hand down the hallways with Kurt. If anything there probably would be little to no chance to experiment with PDA, not when the consequences were too great. But this time, when Blaine might be ready to face the ignorant of the world, the hell of high school, he wouldn't be alone. He could depend and call upon Kurt and in turn, Blaine could offer his boyfriend support.

“I want that, I really do.” Blaine told himself.

Blaine stood up and walked over to the framed photo of him and the Warblers performing at Regionals two years ago, his first performance with them. Blaine would miss being a Warbler, singing classy a cappella songs with his friends, being a part of a big team, where they were adored and revered on campus. He'd miss a lot of things, his friends most of all but he knew why he could leave: because what he was missing out by remaining at Dalton couldn't compare to what the school could offer him now. Not since he had seen a sassy boy in skinny jeans at the mall and all thanks to a messed up coffee order, had met the young man to change his life and for it all to be for the better. He had his answer, Blaine could do this and picturing Kurt's happy grin when he told him, was all the drive he needed.

“You really do move me Kurt, literally this time.” Blaine chuckled.
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Kurt knew it was time to stop beating around the bush, to use an old phrase, and tell Blaine what he was thinking. His talk with Mercedes and Rachel had actually helped him in the end and he kept thinking that Blaine could never take offence or see Kurt as selfish if he brought the idea of transferring up. So when he got the chance to keep to his plan of being mature and communicated, he kept to his game and didn't shy away. After going out to see a movie like they often did they headed back to Kurt's bedroom. It was quite hot and Kurt's cool basement bedroom was a god send for the two teens who wanted to beat the heat. Though as the evening was approaching it was hardly the reason why Kurt wanted them to be alone in his bedroom and this time, kissing wasn't the other possibility either.

Blaine could tell Kurt was nervous just not what about and he began to ponder if he should just ask what was bothering him. There was little need to fret when Kurt sat on his couch and patted the empty spot next to him and Blaine happily went over to join him. When Kurt didn't make any move to cuddle he knew Kurt wanted to talk.

“So Blaine, there's something I've been wanting to ask you lately. Something up until now I've been reluctant to bring up... for a number of reasons.” Kurt began to confess.

Blaine placed a hand on Kurt's shoulder to give him a little encouragement and it seemed to do the trick. “You know you can tell me anything, Kurt. We trust each other, right?” Blaine coaxed.

Kurt nodded, glad that Blaine understood where he was coming from, now it was his job to make himself clearer. “I know and I do trust you... it's just I don't want to pressure you into anything. I could be really selfish about what I want and you might just go along for my sake and then... it could end up being a big mistake.” Kurt began to admit, not realizing he had left out the key fact to what 'it' was.

Blaine frowned, he wasn't sure what Kurt was getting at but the one thing that came to mind was making him start to blush. “Is this about you changing your mind... on waiting to have sex?” Blaine breathed.

Now it was Kurt's turn to blush and his face turned red in embarrassment. “No! No, I don't mean sex... oh god no!” Kurt sputtered off in horror. “I mean... yes I find you very irresistible at times but I still want to go slow. Sorry...” Kurt added.

“Then what's this all about?” Blaine urged.

“About maybe you might want to transfer to McKinley... for our junior year of high school. After I gave you that tour and the concert and even Regionals before that... the thought had crossed my mind and... I can't help but think how wonderful that might be.” Kurt finally confessed.

Blaine found it very hard not to break out into happy laughter at that moment, sometimes having perfect timing wasn't always the best outcome. But for once irony was very much enjoyed because what was happening now was extremely amusing to Blaine. It was almost like it was a sign, Kurt telling Blaine about him possibly leaving Dalton to go to McKinley right when Blaine had decided he wanted to transfer, for real. “Funny how that is... it's been on my mind too, Kurt. Look how in sync we are huh?” Blaine began but he realized being humours wasn't a good idea. Because while he had made his mind up, convincing his parents to go along with his wishes was another matter. One he hadn't dared to try yet but now with Kurt's blessing, he'd get to that as quickly as possible. “But... it's not really that simple.” he finally decided to say, since that was true.

Kurt knew that cold hearted truth far too well concerning his own life, so he nodded with a sigh. “I know, I know... you did transfer to Dalton for a reason. Not to mention you're a shoe in to become the Warblers' new lead vocalist this year. Talent like yours is meant to be heard, Blaine. Even if it means we'll have to go head to head for show choir competitions by being in opposing glee clubs.” Kurt said.

“And despite all of that, I know our love will survive.” Blaine replied.

“Yes, I think that's a safe bet.” Kurt agreed. Kurt had done what he wanted to do, he had brought the subject up. Blaine letting him down gently that it wasn't going to happen wasn't so bad to face now. Especially when it was very easy to notice the love on Blaine's face and Kurt beamed back at him. “Okay with that done, let's express that love why don't we?” Kurt purred.

Blaine laughed, he'd bide his time and wait for the proper moment to let Kurt know his plans. But first in addition to his parents, there was one other group he needed to talk to before his boyfriend. Blaine was happy to put that all aside for now and he gave Kurt his best com hither look and it worked, the reward being a kiss.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Back when he was a freshman Blaine could have never guessed he'd be where he was now, ready to tell his parents that he wanted to head back to public school. It wouldn't be easy, Blaine was well aware but somehow he'd get through them. Hearing Kurt admit how much he wanted it to happened only made Blaine more determined. If he could just make his dad realize this was in his best interest he knew he'd have him and once again the world seemed to be sending him signs that he was making the right choices. When Blaine arrived back home after leaving Kurt's place, he found his mom and dad conveniently already at home. Taking a deep breath Blaine took all the courage Kurt had given him to get through what would come next. “Here goes everything.” he whispered to himself and walked into the living room where they where. Blaine came to stand right in front of the TV, his mom, who had been watching the program noticed her son right away, while Blaine's dad had been silently reading a book and Blaine cleared his throat to get his attention too. “Um hey, mom, dad... can I have a word with you?” Blaine asked, trying to remain calm when he was quite nervous.

“You don't need to ask Blaine, just tell us.” Robert replied.

Blaine simply nodded, he wasn't sure where to start but he soon got a basic idea. “I'm finding myself beginning to be braver, about a lot of things now. I don't think it's surprising what started this, it's Kurt. Being with him, makes me want to be a better person... or rather, one with more courage. I've always had this underlining regret about running, when I ran... away to Dalton. It's something I've always wished I could change and now... I think I might be ready to.” Blaine admitted, deciding to cut the chase in the best way he could. The talk was hardly brilliant but hopefully it would be enough to start the discussion he was hoping would end in his favour. The wait for his parents to reply was agonizing and when neither of them said anything he couldn't take it anymore. “Could you please say something? Anything.” he pleaded.

Emily was the first to react and she smiled weakly, “I'm sorry it's just... it's rather sudden. I didn't know what to say. But what does this mean exactly, what do you want to do?” she asked.

“I want to transfer to William McKinley for my junior year this fall.” Blaine answered.

“I take it that's the school Kurt goes to?” Richard questioned.

“It is.” Blaine confirmed.

“Have you really thought this through, Blaine? I remember two years ago how you kept saying you had to transfer to Dalton. Now you've changed your mind and all because of meeting a boy?” Blaine dad told his son.

Blaine sighed, he knew his father didn't mean it by the way he was wording things was off-setting. “Because I've fallen in love dad. I love Kurt, I know I might be young but I do. But I'm not doing this for him though he is part of the reason. I want to do this for myself, I don't want to run anymore. I want to help set an example and maybe even change people's back-minded views on being gay. I'm no different from any other teenage boy.”

“You seem very determined.” Emily said as she smiled at him.

Blaine welcomed the break in tension and he smirked at her, “Yeah, I really am, my, how times have changed, huh?” he chuckled.

“This isn't a laughing matter, Blaine. I don't want you to go through what happened to you before. You can't imagine what it was like to get that phone call...” Richard began to argue.

“I didn't get that badly beaten up... I just got some broken ribs and...” Blaine almost snapped back.

“That doesn't matter, you still got hurt and your mother and I got scared... that we could loose you.” Richard said firmly.

“Blaine's not to blame for that, Richard.” Emily spoke up.

Richard let out a sigh, “You're right, sorry... I can tell in your eyes you're serious about this, Blaine. I think I can understand your reasons why and I don't want you to run either. So if you're really sure about this... we'll...” Richard began and he looked over to his wife who nodded.

“I really am, this is the right choice for me to take, you'll see.” Blaine assured them.

“I just hope you're right, son.” Richard replied.

“Me too.” Blaine smiled back but in his mind, being with Kurt could never be the wrong choice.
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The next day Blaine could hardly believe he had done it, he had actually convinced his parents to allow him to transfer. The next day Blaine could barely keep himself from smiling like an idiot wherever he went. He had done it, he had actually done it. It hadn't been easy, especially where his father was concerned. But after they talked for a while, he finally had gotten through to him. To the point where both his mom and dad saw he was tired of running. That because of Kurt and what they shared, he was ready to face the dangers, because this time, he wasn't alone. Blaine also knew his folks wouldn't change their mind and they knew neither would their son. A few days later and they had reached the same agreement and Blaine was allowed to transfer. That hadn't come at to soon a moment either, because time was running out quickly the first day of school was days away, leading Blaine to attend to the next matter of business and this was one he wasn't looking forward to. He owed his fellow Warblers to let them know his plans to leave first-hand and before the first day of school when they would surely notice he would be absent from Dalton. Every year, right before the new school term started, the Warblers from the previous year that hadn't graduated got together for a first informal meeting in order to go over any left over news from the summer and start to vote and determine who would become the members of the council this year. That had usually been something Blaine looked forward to, this upcoming school year more than anything, since Blaine knew he was in the head running to get the much desired role of captain,but now he was dreading. At first Blaine had been tempted to skip the meeting and just tell one of the senior members but he knew what he had to do.

Blaine remembered that old saying, the one that says you never truly appreciate something until it was gone. As Blaine walked through the familiar and calming hallways of Dalton Academy he knew that for him, it was the opposite. Him leaving Dalton didn't mean he suddenly realized how much the location had helped him recover. Having to say goodbye made him even more grateful for Dalton being an option, an escape he could make back in his freshmen year. Now that he had matured and found someone he wanted to keep safe and in turn he wanted to feel safe himself, he no longer was the same kid who had enrolled into the private school. It was time for him to leave and start the next part of his journey and he was confident he could look back on his time as a Warbler and feel more reminiscent than regretful.

“Okay you're starting to sound corny, Blaine, let's get this over with.” Blaine muttered to himself.

It seemed Blaine didn't even have to try to make an entrance and when he stepped into the Warblers choir room, late to the meeting, he was met with enthusiastic cheers. Blaine forced himself to put on a brave face and greet his friends as usual. Of course his closest friend's comments on how Blaine had pretty much become a ghost over the summer were expected and he just smirked at them. At least there was an upside to leaving: less chances for them to torture Blaine about taking so long to realize he liked Kurt. Blaine let his friends lead him a seat and the meeting resumed. Blaine would just wait for the right moment and hopefully that would be before they offered him the lead vocalist spot. Blaine was happy to see that Thad, David and Wes were elected as council members for the year. Finally it was his moment , and before the next order of business could start he stood up and raised his hand. “I'd like to address the council Wes, I have an important announcement... one that won't be easy to say.” he told Wes and the other Warblers.

“Fine, Blaine Anderson, you have the floor.” Wes replied.

Blaine closed his eyes to block out the amount of male students looking right at him for a moment. He had no problems with speaking in front of crowds, he just didn't want to see their reactions. Blaine took a deep breath and told himself it wouldn't be so bad and making it a bigger ordeal wouldn't help him at all. “There's really no easy way to say this to all of you. So I am just going to say it: I'm transferring to a different school.” he told them. Blaine of course noticed the sudden surprise since his announcement was completely out of the blue and some of his friends even shouted out in disbelief. That touched him but he still pressed onwards. “Aw come on guys, we're not in an after school special here. But yeah... I understand this is pretty sudden and a big surprise. But it's something I really want to do, though it might discredit my reputation here by becoming lame. I really enjoyed being at Dalton and being a part of the Warblers. We're classy and we know how to sport a blazer, ask my boyfriend.” Blaine joked and he was glad he could hear laughter following his attempts of humour.

“I need to stop running, from myself and when other people try to push me down. I won't go into my personal reasons for why I'm leaving beyond that. But I will say this, I've found the strength I was lacking before to go on. Okay now I really do sound lame...” Blaine muttered.

“You're not so far off, Blaine.” Trent called out to assure him.

“Thanks, right in closing then... I just have this left to say. I'll miss being a Warbler, part of our team here, getting to sing with all of you. I hope you will accept my decision and if we ever go to head for show choir competitions, then we'll cheer each other on.” Blaine concluded.

What followed was Nick, Jeff and Trent standing up and clapping, causing a chain reaction of applause to break out until Blaine received a standing ovation and Blaine took in a deep breath.

“Of course, once a Warbler, always a Warbler, Blaine.” Thad declared.
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As soon as Blaine's job of making his transfer to McKinley a reality by convincing his parents and breaking the news to the Warblers was done, he could finally let the fact sink in. Right after that Blaine decided, as difficult as it might prove to be, that he wanted to keep it a secret from Kurt for a little while longer. Sure, sometimes secrets were hard to keep, especially from Kurt, but he had a whole scenario planned out and it was one he wanted very much to happen: Blaine would idly walk into the choir room, like he was just a new student, and address the New Directions saying he wanted to sign up. Blaine could already picture Kurt's surprised face that would quickly turn to delight and he let that mental image help him stick to his plan. There was the slight chance Kurt would get mad at him for keeping him in the dark for so long but Blaine decided to risk it, which meant that for the time being he'd have to keep Kurt distracted enough so he wouldn't notice his good mood or ask what the cause was. Since up until this point the pair had been trying to keep their spirits up but with school starting on Monday, it wasn't easy to pull off.

Kurt on the other hand ,not knowing there was a silver lining to his looming gloom, , had still managed to move past his impending separation from Blaine for the most part. He wasn't about to let it keep him down and he did this by constantly reminding himself he had a lot to be happy about. It didn't matter if Blaine would be attending a different school again since back when they first got together that hadn't been a problem. Probably because they were too busy getting to know each other, experiencing the novelty of having a first boyfriend and sneaking behind their friends backs a bit too. Now after a few months had passed and during the summer they had gotten a taste of being together all the time, it wasn't so easy to be ignorant anymore. Kurt put on a brave face and it wasn't a mask for his true emotions for once since being in Blaine's company wasn't anything he felt depressed over, it was the opposite case. So when the pair met up for the day and came back from yet another successful date where their chemistry was very obvious, he just kept on smiling away. Not hard to do when Blaine was his mirror image at present as they stepped into Blaine's house.

The house was empty with no parents to be found and they decided to switch things up and hang out in Blaine's living room for a bit. They had ended their date outside in the world rather early and now Kurt was wondering what Blaine had in mind. If he had wanted to go make out Kurt doubted he would have brought them to the living room instead of his bedroom. So Kurt just eyed Blaine playfully, noticing his cheeky grin and waited.

Blaine of course had noticed Kurt's look and he gave him a quick kiss and joined Kurt on the couch. “Why haven't you asked me what our plans are now?” Blaine finally asked his boyfriend.

“I was waiting for you to tell me.” Kurt answered playfully.

“I guess sometimes we can misinterpret each other, I'm almost relieved...”

“Why?”

“Because if we were too perfect then I'd think this has all been a dream.” Blaine explained.

“So, what are our plans for this evening, cutie?” Kurt asked, making up for lost time.

“I thought we'd have a movie night, since those always go well.” Blaine explained.

“Ah, so that's why we're in the living room and not your room, I take it? Because more often than not we don't actually end up watching the film there.” Kurt said.

“Hmmm, but we also enjoy ourselves either way.” Blaine added with a wink. “But I figure after the movie where we actually watch it... if we wanna get our mac on, my room' s just over there.” Blaine pointed out, his face all cheeky.

Kurt smirked at him and when Blaine sat closer to him so they were pressed up against each other he rested his head on Blaine's shoulder. He smiled to himself when he thought that, given their behaviour in public, it could appear as if they never showed each other physical affection,when in reality they were quite prone to it in their alone time. Kurt wasn't about to think about what that signalized or anything, back at the movies they had help hands and even stole a kiss or two in the darkened room. But for the most part their PDA rarely went beyond holding hands so far. Maybe it was a good thing Blaine would still be at Dalton, Kurt thought, it wasn't like if they went to the same school and it was McKinley they could be like the heterosexual couples.

After the movie was over and they managed to keep their lips apart, which wasn't something all that rare, they headed off to Blaine's bedroom as planned. After making out for a bit the couple now found themselves just blissfully cuddling on Blaine's bed. Blaine had come to rest his head on Kurt's stomach and Kurt showed his approval of the position by starting to stroke his head, all the while smiling down at Blaine like he was a lovesick fool, which he was.

“So I was thinking, this Sunday is the last day of summer vacation. I was hoping we could spend it together?” Kurt told him.

Blaine was about to reply that he had expected they would do that already when he realized he did have some things to handle about his transfer. So he took a little pause to go through his mental calendar but he was happy to see he would actually be free on Sunday. He and his mom did need to finish the transfer progress over the next week but not on Sunday. “Of course, handsome, I'm surprised you'd feel the need to ask me.” Blaine replied.

“Well, I meant like the whole day, from start to finish you know, so we can end our summer break on a high point.” Kurt explained further.

“I bet you've already got a super romantic date all planned out.”

“Actually I haven't, I wanted to check with you first.” Kurt scoffed.

Blaine sat up and tried to redeem himself by leaning in to kiss his boyfriend, pressing his lips against Kurt's and making an adorable 'mwah' sound as he did. By the way Kurt had fluttered his eyelashes when he opened his eyes he knew it had been a good move. “Then can I plan the date?” Blaine requested, giving Kurt his puppy dog eyes.

“Whatever your secret plans end up being I know I'll love them, because I love you.” Kurt cooed.

Now Blaine had a surprise he'd get to reveal right away and that meant he had a legitimate reason to act all giddy and excited and he was quite pleased with himself. Because of course Kurt was still clueless to the even bigger reveal Blaine had in store for his boyfriend. Now Blaine had the very tool he needed to keep everything a secret for as long as he wanted and Blaine sure felt like he was a very lucky guy. Especially since he knew Kurt would love both things and that was an understatement.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Of course you could try your best to put on a brave face and still end up failing at the attempt and come Sunday morning, Kurt found himself still struggling away with his mood. Kurt was waiting in the living room of his house for Blaine to come pick him up for their date. Kurt was early, Blaine wouldn't arrive for a while yet but Kurt had been aimlessly wandering around the house for long enough. While he was certainly looking forward to the date, he still couldn't forget that starting tomorrow Blaine would be returning to Dalton, while he was looking forward to getting to be back in glee club, sing more songs, aim for Nationals this time but he wasn't doing a good job of staying cheerful.

That became clear when Burt ended up walking into the living room to see his son moping on the couch as he fingered through a Vogue magazine, still looking bored and gloomy. “Hey what's up with you? You look like you lost a bid for one of your outfits or something.” Burt asked him, using humour in attempt to break Kurt's apparent blue mood.

Kurt let his dad's comment snap him out of his funk just a little, he was being rather silly, he admitted. Kurt let out a sigh, hoping he could get it all out of his system before Blaine arrived. Looking up at his dad he was fine to see if having a father-son talk could help him out. “No... I'm fine, dad... well okay clearly I'm not but it's nothing horrible. I'm being silly... but school starts tomorrow and I'm finding it hard to get past how that means Blaine and I are gonna be at different schools again.” Kurt explained to his dad.

“So? Isn't that something the two of you have known right from the beginning? I know you want to spend whatever time you can with Blaine, Kurt, I get that, but you'll spend time apart, anyone in a relationship knows that. In fact, it can become a problem if you spend too much time together as time goes on.” Burt told his son.

“I know, I don't want either of us to ever feel smothered.” Kurt agreed.

“Like that's gonna happen.” Burt muttered with a smirk.

Kurt laughed along with his dad, he had a point and Kurt decided to keep the conversation going. “Honestly, if it were just us going to different schools I think I'd be handling myself better right now. But we're in opposing glee clubs and while we'll support each other no matter what, it will still be tough. What if we ended up going head to head at Sectionals, or Regionals or oh my god maybe even Nationals, dad! IF one of us wins, will we honestly be able to run over and hug each other when one of us just lost?” Kurt rambled.

“Probably, maybe that will make the others loss better?”

Kurt rolled his eyes, “Hah-hah, dad... thanks for trying to cheer me up here. But got anything else that might do it better?” Kurt asked.

“Well for one thing, Kurt, you're moping around like this is gonna help you or Blaine.” Burt commented.

“How do you do it? Am I just that clueless or are you that wise? Oh god what am I even gonna be like when I'm you're age?” Kurt groaned but his dad had done just what Kurt had asked. Kurt picked himself up and sat up straight on the couch, letting his superior and stubborn mind set return to him. He was better than this, him and Blaine were better than this, no more pity parties for Kurt Hummel. He was going to start his Junior year, with friends who accepted him, being a part of a group he believed in and best of all, having a dreamy blazer-clad boyfriend. “You're right as usual, dad. So I won't sit here beating myself up over anything anymore. Blaine said it himself, we both have way too much to be grateful about than sad over.” Kurt concluded.

Kurt's phone buzzed from getting a text and Kurt looked out onto the road to see Blaine's car appear and he grinned. “And this realization couldn't have come at a better time, thanks dad.” Kurt chimed as he got up and hurried outside to greet his boyfriend. Leaving his dad to shake his head at his son's antics and start reading his news paper.

“Anytime, Kurt.” Burt chuckled.

Kurt made it outside just in time for Blaine to step out of his car and they met each other halfway in the driveway. Kurt wanted to kiss his boyfriend but he knew his dad might notice so he kept himself at bay for now. Kurt was very excited to discover what Blaine had in store for them on their last day of summer vacation. Whatever his boyfriend had cooked up he knew it would be good. “So do I get blinded folded for this?” Kurt joked.

Blaine rolled his eyes at Kurt, “No, sorry to disappoint you but the secret isn't the location. You'll see... come on, let's get in the car and head off.” Blaine promised as he opened the passenger door up for Kurt to slid in.

The mystery location in question turned out to the farthest from a possible secret just as Blaine had commented. Because it was none other than Blaine's house and Kurt at first response began to get both excited and nervous at the same time. Sure going to Blaine's place for their date could mean a number of things but there was one scenario in particular that was making him nervous.

True to their uncanny ability to read each others moods, Blaine caught Kurt's look and was able to decipher his inner turmoil. Blaine reached over and laid a hand on Kurt's shoulder, squeezing a bit to put him at ease. “Relax Kurt, I'm still with you on wanting to go slow...” he began to assure.

Kurt's shoulder's sagged as he let out a relieved breath but he couldn't leave the subject at that. “It's not like us being ready to... go all the way or even take another step is scary.” Kurt quickly began to explain. “I don't want it to look like I'm rejecting you...”

Blaine's face got all scrunched up and he was grinning from ear to ear. “Oh Kurt, I could never think that about you.... but I love that you were willing to go there for my sake. It's not needed, thank you, but let's just go have our romantic date.” Blaine coaxed.

Kurt nodded and was happy to comply and as the couple made their way to the front door, instead of Blaine going to open the door, he stepped in front of Kurt blocking his boyfriend's path. Looking all mischievous and cute, Blaine pulled a navy scarf out of his inside pocket. “Now remember when I said the secret isn't the location? well what's inside this door is...” Blaine began.

Kurt giggled at Blaine, “Don't think I can keep my eyes closed, do you?” he teased.

“I know I'd be tempted to peak.” Blaine admitted.

“Fine, I'll go along, blindfold me, cutie, my life is in your hands.” Kurt sassed as he stood in place and Blaine placed the scarf over his eyes and tied the end behind his head.

“It's not too tight is it?” Blaine asked.

“No and I can't see a thing.” Kurt assured.

Blaine took hold of Kurt's hand and once the door was unlocked carefully lead his boyfriend through the hallway and towards his romantic secret. Kurt didn't try to guess where he was being brought to, though judging by how short a trip it had been, he had some ideas. Blaine came to place his hands on Kurt's shoulders and then trailed up to begin to untie the blindfold.

“Keep your eyes closed until I say so, kay?” Blaine requested.

“Sure, sweetie.” Kurt cooed.

Blaine removed the blindfold and after confirming Kurt was keeping his eyes shut he began to grin anxiously. Once he was perfectly positioned to see Kurt's reaction he finally relented. “Okay, you can open your eyes now.” he declared, barely keeping his excitement at bay.

Kurt finally opened his eyes to suddenly find himself on the streets of Paris, in a little french restaurant instead of Blaine's dining room. Or at least, it was clear that's the effect Blaine had been going for, and Kurt's delighted squeal at the discovery proved the illusion was very convincing. Kurt's whole face lit up and his mouth fell open in surprise. The transformation was subtle but very well laid out, the dining room table was decorated with candles and various little French themed ornaments. Best of all was a large back drop canvas placed on the wall, which had a large to scale image of the Eiffel tower on it. Kurt finished scanning the romantic setting before them and brought his gaze back the young man who had made it all possible: his cutie. “Blaine this is splendid, I'm beyond impressed. I love everything!” Kurt exclaimed.

Blaine felt like shouting out to the world in victory but instead he just beamed at Kurt. “I had to try to do something as great as your outdoor dinner date, right? It seemed fitting, now before we sit down to our delicious French dinner... I thought you might enjoy a bit of entertainment first.” Blaine explained.

Kurt played along and let Blaine guide him to the where their piano was, to discover Blaine had placed a chair beside it. Blaine went over and held the chair out in offering and still smiling with hearts in his eyes, Kurt took a seat. “You mean there's more?” he chimed.

“What do you think?” Blaine teased as he sat on the piano and began to strike a few keys in warm up.

“Here I thought you might still be sung out from our concert.” Kurt admitted, keeping their banter going strong.

“You can never have enough music, Kurt.” Blaine tossed back with a wink.

Blaine then started to play and before he'd begin the intro to the actual song he intended to sing he decided to give Kurt a little romantic speech. “Now before I start to sing I feel the urge to say something first. Love at first sight sure is a romantic notion and one I'd like to thing is possible. But honestly if it isn't I think I can live with that. I know when I first saw you at the mall I didn't fall instantly in love with you, Kurt. Or if I did, my mind or even my heart wasn't ready to accept that, and it took me watching you singing Rose's Turn to know for sure. I did however find you very attractive at first sight and I still think that can be romantic and sexy. I realize not every song needs to have context but I think somehow this number does and doesn't at the same time.” Blaine explained. “Maybe we can discuss this later.” Blaine added with a smirk.

“That does sounds like fun.” Kurt agreed.

With Blaine's little interlude over he got onto actually doing what he did best, serenading Kurt and began to play the intro for 'I Knew I Loved You' by Savage Garden.

Maybe it's intuition
But some things you just don't questionr
Like in your eyes
I see my future in an instantr
And there it goes
I think I've found my best friend
I know that it might sound more than a little crazyr
But I believer

I knew I loved you before I met your
I think I dreamed you into lifer
I knew I loved you before I met you
I have been waiting all my life

There's just no rhyme or reason
Only this sense of completion
And in your eyes

I see the missing pieces I'm searching for
I think I've found my way home
I know that it might sound more than a little crazy
But I believer

I knew I loved you before I met you
I think I dreamed you into life
I knew I loved you before I met you
I have been waiting all my life
(and the whos here)

A thousand angels dance around your
(and the whos here)
I am complete now that I've found you
(and the whos here)
I knew I loved you before I met you
I think I dreamed you into life
I knew I loved you before I met you
I have been waiting all my life
(and the whos here)

When Blaine's eyes fell on Kurt at the exact same moment he started to sing Kurt felt his heart skip a beat. Blaine had made his own arrangement of the already very romantic song by slowing it down a little and having the only melody be his piano playing. Kurt was already under Blaine's spell as his soft and musical voice surrounded him. There hadn't been any need for Blaine's little disclaimer beforehand but Kurt was still glad he had done it. Now those beautiful words before the song only made the current atmosphere even more magical. Kurt himself had wondered if he had fallen in love with Blaine at first sight too. His first glance at Blaine at the mall had been so minimal he hadn't even thought about him for long. Then when they had met and actually talked in the Lima Bean on that fateful day, Kurt had been too busy trying to accept what was happening was real. There was nothing wrong with falling in love after you met, not before, it was sure more the norm. Looking back on the start of his and Blaine's romance, he sure didn't feel like he was missing out on anything. Blaine wasn't some figment of Kurt's imagination, he hadn't dreamed him into life, he was real. Real and sitting right in front of him, singing to him with all the love he had in his heart. Kurt began to sniffle and then came the happy tears and he just gave into his emotions.

Blaine finished the song and since he had been watching Kurt the entire time he saw the tears and what they meant. Blaine watched as Kurt got up from his chair and came to sit beside Blaine on the piano bench. He kept watching Kurt's teary exchange began to build up and change and all the while still showed his intense love for Blaine. Blaine closed his eyes when Kurt's lips brushed against his and they shared the experience, together. Kurt kissed Blaine, starting softly and just pressing their lips together. Slowly they got a little bolder and passion began to flow between them, opening their mouths as they began to pull and push at each other.

When the kiss ended both Kurt and Blaine looked at each other and the joy was easy to see in each other's eyes. Neither one of them held each other back as they went in for a second kiss, this one being shorter but only because they couldn't stop from laughing.

“You're more than what I could have dreamed of, Blaine.” Kurt breathed.

“And you complete me.” Blaine whispered back.

“I love you.”

“And I love you.”

They kissed for the third time and by this point they both knew they were getting a bit too eager with their embrace.

“We should... we should save this for after dinner.” Kurt murmured between their kisses.

“It would be the smart thing to do, it's a really good dinner.” Blaine agreed but he still didn't pull apart. “But notice how we're not stopping.” Blaine added.

“Hmm, it's a conundrum for sure, should we maybe try to come up with a little... enticement?” Kurt suggested.

“Besides our dinner getting cold?” Blaine teased.

“Is that a no?” Kurt taunted.

Blaine laughed and finally sat up from the piano and moved his arms around to relax his shoulder muscles as they took a moment to recover. Blaine had an idea of what he'd love to happen, the trouble was he wasn't sure if it was the right time to tell Kurt. But something being spontaneous and daring had its rewards. “Since you brought it up... maybe if we both feel like it... you got to move us along another step. Back when I got to kiss you with your tank top on so um... maybe I can return the favour tonight?” Blaine offered bashfully.

There was Kurt's heart beginning to race again but he gulped down his nerves and glanced up coyly at Blaine and just nodded. “Let's go start that idea and eat our dinner first... then we'll see about dessert...” Kurt began but then he just groaned and Blaine began to laugh at him. “Quiet or you' ll ruin everything.” Kurt hissed as he chased after Blaine back to the dining room.

“Fat chance on that happening, laughing is great... I love how witty you are. Even when you screw up and you know I do too. The line between romantic and corny is very thin, Kurt.” Blaine pointed out.

“Gosh, is that ever true.” Kurt agreed with a chuckle.

They two teens somehow managed to enjoy their little trip to Paris and had their dinner as intended. Kurt and Blaine's usual banter risked running wild while eating, but they didn't feel like stopping. That was another reason they liked to spend so much time alone, there was no third wheel to groan and say they were going too far. Of course there had been countless times one of them or both had messed up and broke the chain of flirtatious comments. All they did was laugh or tease each other and move right along. Small talk was easy for them, the only risk they had was beginning to ramble on and on and forget to stop long enough to breath.

No matter how much they enjoyed talking once the main course of their meal was over and they spent a bit of time afterwards chatting. The couple hadn't forgotten their little saucy talk before and they almost sprinted up to Blaine's bedroom to see about the tail end of their date.

At first they didn't think about removing any clothing, they just got into their usual rapport and slowly became more relaxed and confident with each other. Through each of their kisses, starting from Blaine's doorway and all the way to his bed, they kept laughing, smooching and carrying on. Giddy and high on love and the desire to be a little more aggressive than usual, they started a steady rhythm and tried to keep the temperature between them low enough so they wouldn't have to stop yet.

“Is this good for you, Blaine?” Kurt purred as he rolled around with Blaine on the bed until Blaine was under him.

“Hmm? Yes very good, so good I'm think I'm ready to lose this shirt of mine... if you're comfortable with that.” Blaine murmured in Kurt's ear.

Goosebumps formed on Kurt's skin in anticipation, “Only if I get to do the same.” he replied.

Blaine felt his voice go hoarse as he tried to reign his teenage hormones back in just a bit but the idea of them getting to make out shirtless was far too exciting and considering it could be seen as rather tame didn't matter. Just at the thought of Blaine getting to touch Kurt's bare chest, caress and kiss his bare skin and of course Kurt doing the same to him, was very thrilling. “Okay... just let's not go any farther than that.” Blaine suggested.

Kurt was glad that Blaine was making his own wants be known, so Kurt wasn't worried about taking advantage or Blaine just giving Kurt what he wanted. He sat up on the bed and let them cool down a bit before they'd get to what they wanted to do next. “Of course Blaine, we both want each other to be comfortable.”

“I'm fine, really Kurt... I want this too, I'm good with going slow if it's this...” Blaine assured Kurt.

Kurt glanced at Blaine shyly, Kurt began to remove his shirt and then he stopped. “Do you want to do the honours yourself?” he offered.

“Really?” Blaine sputtered.

Kurt laughed at Blaine's dumbstruck reaction and to his relief he didn't feel any hesitation, so when Blaine shuffled along on the bed he didn't shy away. They were both a little nervous and their breathing heavy but they didn't let that stop them. “It's just a shirt, Blaine.” Kurt teased.

Blaine's now steady hands came up to unbutton Kurt's dress shirt and shrug it off his shoulders. “And now it's a just a shirt that's on the bed.” Blaine added. Kurt held up arms up over his head and Blaine caught on quick and lifted his undershirt up over his head and Kurt was now totally shirtless, sitting on the bed in front of Kurt.

“Is this still okay?” Kurt found himself asking shyly, suddenly feeling very self conscious.

“Oh yeah, here let me make this easier for us.” Blaine muttered and he made quick work of his own layers until he too was shirtless. Blaine already knew Kurt wouldn't mind that he hadn't gotten to disrobe his boyfriend and once more they began to laugh. That only broke the tension and any pressure was gone between them. Kurt reached out to touch Blaine's bare chest and Blaine simply sat still and allowed him to. Kurt's first attempts to explore Blaine's naked upper body were reluctant like if he wasn't careful he'd shatter Blaine, as if he was made of glass. Blaine's heart was racing in his chest and he just watched Kurt until he brought his hand up to take Kurt's hand and moved Kurt's hand along his chest.

“We're allowed to be nervous, Kurt.” Blaine pointed out.

“Yes well... I find you very bewitching right now, Blaine. But as you can see I haven't run out of this room in a flash.” Kurt sassed.

Blaine and Kurt got a little closer and Blaine placed his hands over Kurt's shoulders until they were as close as they could be, their chests pressed together. The sensation and feeling of their bare skin touching was intoxicating and fun, being at both ends of the spectrum at the same time. Making out shirtless was still a step to take and they were taking it, together and truly enjoying the experience.

“I don't think we should lie down, though.” Blaine breathed.

“Good call.” Kurt agreed.

A short while later they did finally reach their breaking point and they put their shirts back on and allowed themselves to back track a bit and do some horizontal fully closed kissing. Alas, sadly even that had to stop since the last day of summer would soon reach its end.

Kurt glanced at his phone and he sighed, “It's 11:48, Blaine... the summer's almost over.” Kurt grumbled.

“Just the summer break, Kurt, not the whole season.” Blaine corrected.

“You're nit-picking, cutie.” Kurt warned.

“I know, come on I'll drive you home.” Blaine said as he got up from the bed and headed for his bedroom door.

Kurt nodded and he followed Blaine to his car. “Blaine, if it wasn't love at first right, what would you say the start of our relationship was?” he asked.

“What do you mean?” Blaine asked in confusion.

“Like, if you had to describe the beginning of our relationship and what brought us together in two words, what would they be?” Kurt tried to explain.

Blaine thought for a moment and he smirked. “Coffee Orders and Katy Perry.”