Bang. Bang. Bang.

Blaine squared his shoulders, his jaw setting as he continued his assault on the punching bag.

Bang. Bang. Bang.

His speed quickened, his breathing harsh as his brow furrowed in concentration and anger. He changed his stance to alternate between blows with his elbows, fists, and side kicks.

Bang bang bang, jab punch pow, bang bang bang.

His iPod changed then, and Blaine found himself singing along with it.

"Lifes too short to even care at all, oh.

Im losing my mind losing my mind losing control, oh oh.

These fishes in the sea theyre staring at me oh oh.

Oh oh oh oh,

A wet world aches for a beat of a drum,

Oh."

He was angry. So angry.

He had dealt with the football team for beating on Kurt, and their continued abuse. Slowly, and one by one, he found a way to punish them all. Spray painting possessions pink, drawing crude drawings on lockers or letterman jackets, filling the team gatorade cooler with salt. Little, irritating things that got the point across, but couldnt be proved or provoke trouble for Blaine. That and the usual pinning against he lockers and verbal lashing, sometimes a black eye or two.

"If I could find a way to see this straight,

Id run away,

To some fortune that I, I should have found by now.

Im waiting for this cough syrup to come down, come down."

But Karofsky got a little special treatment. Rainbow spray paintings, crude drawings and expressions, super glue on his jock strap, green hair dye in his shampoo bottle, athletes foot spray on his jersey. The humiliation was intoxicating, and oh so satisfying.

"Lifes too short to even care at all, oh, oh.

Im coming up now, coming up now out of the blue, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh.

These zombies in the park theyre looking for my heart, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh.

A dark world aches for a splash of the sun, oh, oh."

But the attack was weeks ago. True they hadnt tried to beat Kurt up again, but their abuse wasnt stopping, or even slowing down. Name calling, locker shoving, and, unfortunately, Slushies and dumpster throws.

"If I could find a way to see this straight,

Id run away,

To some fortune that I, I should have found by now.

And so I run now to the things they said could restore me,

Restore life the way it should be,

Im waiting for this cough syrup to come down."

Blaine was heartbroken when he heard Kurt had fallen victim to the two things he had hoped, rather naively, the boy would never have to experience. Kurt had cried over his ruined outfits, going to Blaine for comfort, which he gladly gave, wrapping the brunette in his strong embrace and holding him close as he cried his frustrations out.

"Lifes too short to even care at all, oh, oh.

Im losing my mind losing my mind losing control.

If I could find a way to see this straight,

Id run away,

To some fortune that I, I should have found by now."

He was tired of it. A month of friendship had passed between them, and they had quickly become the best of friends. Finn remained wary of the two, still not liking how comfortable they apparently were to always be touching each other somehow. They werent dating, and they hadnt kissed since the beating, but they were aware of the mutual attraction and constant sexual tension. They were stuck being platonic until it was okay to continue on, but they just had this invisible draw to the other, they had to be touching each other whenever they could.

"So I run now to the things they said could restore me,

Restore life the way it should be,

Im waiting for this cough syrup to come down.

One more spoon of cough syrup now, whoa.

One more spoon of cough syrup now, whoa."

A month. A month and the jocks werent relenting. Still deciding to give Kurt shit, but not Blaine, even if he was Blaines best friend. Blaine pounded harder, his temper rising.

BANG. BANG. BANG!

Looks like he was going to have to resort to drastic measures.

-----

Kurt had his back against the wall, the brick digging into his back and probably scrapping the leather on his vintage teal jacket. His eyes were wide, his heart racing and making his breathing ragged and shaky.

In front of him, Karofsky had his hands on the countertenors shoulders, pinning him to the wall. His hair was bright orange, and his letterman jacket had a rainbow with a cock under in spray painted on the front. He was pissed.

"Im getting real tired of this shit, Hummel!" he hissed at Kurt, making the boy flinch. "Your pathetic faggy ass is making me mad enough, but your psychotic boy toy is gonna make me snap! THIS IS THE THIRD TIME THIS WEEK MY HAIR HAS BEEN DYED A NEON COLOR!"

Kurt whimpered as the boys volume raised, terror and panic thrumming through his veins. He appreciated everything Blaine did to protect him and stand up for him, and he had to admit watching the jocks fall victim to Blaines anger for a month was certainly entertaining, but he knew it wasnt enough.

It probably didnt help he was so eager to run his mouth anytime one of them pushed him around or called him a name.

-----

Kurt is talking with Tina, heading to meet up with Blaine. Karofsky and Azimio walk by, shoving Kurt into a locker. Kurt cries out in pain; a lock cut into his back.

Blaine appears suddenly, pushing them back angrily. He stands in front of Kurt, his fighter stance in place as he hovers protectively over the boy.

Azimio holds Karofsky back, and they say a few jeers before they turn to leave. Kurt staggers to his feet, anger taking over.

"Yeah, you dont want to be late for your appointment at Supercuts!" he sneers out.

"Watch your mouth, Hummel!" Azimio threatens, mindful of the snarl Blaine is sporting.

"Yeah, and you know what else, Lady?" Karofsky adds. "They love walk-ins!"

They walk away, and Blaine returns to normal. He turns to them, opening his arms silently to Kurt.

He falls into them easily. Hiding his head in Blaines shoulder, no one sees the tears.

-----

Kurt is dragged from the parking lot where he was waiting for Blaine. The jocks are preparing to toss him into the dumpster.

"Wait, this is Alexander McQueen!" he protests, terrified of the stains hell get on them.

Karofsky shrugs, yanking off Kurts jacket and satchel, tossing them to the side. Kurt stumbles away but doesnt run; he knows its pointless. Hes tried.

"One day, you all will work for me," he declares, looking down at them with distain.

Irritated, they dump him unceremoniously into the trash, laughing and high-fiving as they leave. Kurt sighs sadly, his phone is in his satchel, he cant call Blaine.

He waits. Fifteen minutes after school lets out, Blaine turns the corner, seeing Kurts jacket and satchel by the dumpster. His heart drops.

They dont say anything as he helps Kurt out. He doesnt comment on the smell, and Kurt doesnt protest when they go back to Blaines so Kurt can shower, where they sit close on the couch and watch Disney movies, Kurt in some of Blaines pajamas, that hell probably return tomorrow, if he doesnt forget to or anything.

-----

Kurt is heading to class, unaware that JBI is around the corner.

"Kurt Hummel! Is it true you spent your time at Dalton being the school whore? I mean, you are gay, and being at an all-boys boarding school is sure to have lead to something, correct?" he shouted, shoving a microphone in the countertenors face.

Kurt stumbled back, horror and confusion coloring his features. "What? No, thats just- "

"What are your thoughts on the rumor that youre actually a female trapped in a male body?" Jacob interrupted rudely.

"Thats ridiculous!" Kurt sputtered. "I dont think Im a girl! I identify as a boy because I am a boy! And-"

"What do you have to say about your father working in Congress just so he could get away from you more often?"

Kurt was pissed now. Like, pissed.

"How about instead of wasting my time asking me these useless and mediocre questions, you report about actual school problems?" Kurt snapped, his bitch glare making Jacob swallow and step back slightly. "Like bullying at school, including Slushies and annoying harassment from Jew-fro maniacs who smell like a flea market!"

At that moment, Karofsky walked by Kurt, throwing a grape Slushie into his face. Kurt sputtered, the shock of the cold stunning him.

"HEY!" a voice cried out, and Karofsky looks over his shoulder quickly before a look of fear hits his face, and he breaks into a run down the hall.

Kurt blinked, his eyes stinging as a figure in leather rushed by, sprinting after the jock. "YOUD BETTER RUN, YOU FUCKER!" Blaine called down the hall as he hunted the jock down.

Kurt turned back to Jacob, a murderous look on his face. "If youll excuse me, I have to try and salvage this outfit before I take after Blaine and hunt down someone, too. Someone with a ridiculously bad perm and a camera crew."

He stalked into the restroom, leaving Jacob shaking slightly.

-----

Well, it really was a matter of time at this point.

Karofsky raised his hand, a fist tight and threatening, and Kurt closed his eyes as he braced himself for the pain.

A motorcycle roar sounded in the parking lot, and Karofskys eyes widened in fear and hatred. He lowered his fist, glancing over his shoulder to make sure it was actually Anderson. Kurt looked past the jock to look as well, the relief rising in his heart and ready to spread through the moment Blaine swooped in.

What he saw made his jaw open in shock, and Karofsky stiffened against him.

Blaine had pulled up a few feet away on his second motorcycle, his red 2011 Chrysler, and had moved to pull his helmet off. His leather jacket had short spikes added to the shoulders and circling the wrists, a chain hanging from one of the lapels. A similar chain wrapped around his right motorcycle boot twice. His jeans were black and ripped, his V-neck shirt tight and white. The hair that curled and fell onto his forehead was dyed a bright purple, and his fingernails had been painted a sleek black. An eyebrow stud in his right eyebrow shone with a black diamond, and a matching stud, or two, were in the left cartilage of his ear.

His eyes bore into Kurt, the brown-green-hazel color heightened by the light lining of black eyeliner. Kurt breathed shakily, for an entirely different reason then he had moments before.

Blaine broke the contact to glare at Karofsky, sending a smirk at him. He raised an eyebrow and crossed his arms, daring the jock to try anything with him there. Karofsky clenched his jaw, his eyes burning with loathing. With a final shove to Kurts shoulders, where Kurt barely kept his cry inside, he charged at the kick-boxer, a fist raised and swung forward with brutal strength.

Blaine dodged the punch, spinning to the side to land a hit to the jocks jaw. Karofsky stumbled back, Blaines class ring sure to leave a bruise, and lunged again. Blaine skipped back and did a spin kick, hitting Dave in the side of his head.

"You think you can just do the things you do and not face the consequences?" Blaine jeered at him, his leg snapping out in a kick to the chest. "Think you can hurt this boy because hes different, because you know you cant to me? Well think again!"

Disoriented, Dave tried to punch at Blaine again, only to have the boy parr his hits and back him towards the wall, a little ways from Kurt. With the jocks back to the wall, Blaine unleashed a series of punches, all hitting target, all while in perfect fighter stance.

"You dont deserve anything," Blaine snarled. "Your popularity, your strength, your football position. Assholes like you dont deserve anything but the shit that comes out them."

Dave tried weakly to defend himself, holding his arms out to protect his face. Wanting to be fair, Blaine stepped back, only for Karofsky to lunge and strike Blaine in the jaw. He barely swayed, and returned his own, much stronger, right hook. Dave swayed slightly, and with a roundhouse kick Blaine brought him down hard.

Blaine broke his stance, spitting at the jock in disgust. "When will you learn? The outcome will be the same every time; I win, you get hurt."

Kurt stayed plastered to the wall, his heart racing and eyes impossibly wide. He just saw Blaine fight. He knocked Karofsky out cold. It wasnt even worthy of being called a fight. That, and Blaines new appearance...

He was so incredibly turned on.

Huffing in distaste, Blaine grabbed Kurt by the hand and pulled him to his bike. Kurt shook out of his daze and allowed Blaine to lead him to the terrifying, (albeit sexy), death trap, where they climbed on quickly. Blaine pealed it out the lot, speeding perhaps a little too much, not stopping until they were outside the Lima Bean.

After dismounting and removing their helmets, Blaine released a sigh of relief simultaneously with Kurt. He looked up and caught the gaze of the blue-eyed boy, and smiled happily at him. Kurt ginned back, the relief making him feel lightheaded.

"Howd your make-up quiz go?" Blaine asked.

Kurt frowned at Blaines voice, now that the fear was gone and he could pay proper attention. It sounded heavy, muffled, like the boys tongue was swollen.

"It was okay," he replied, still curious. "I take it this is why you skipped school today?" he asked, gesturing to all of the bad boy.

Blaine shrugged, grinning. "Training, image, appearance. Been a good day, Id say,"

Kurt studying his mouth closely as he talked, noticing a glint in his mouth. His eyes widened in shock.

"Did you pierce your tongue?!" he asked shocked.

Blaine grinned cockily. "You like?" he teased, sticking out his tongue to show off the black diamond stud in the center.

Kurt blushed, trying desperately to fight off the images the knowledge was forming.

Blaine was gorgeous before, and his look was threatening. Now he was stunningly sexy, his look borderline dangerous.

It turned him on at an alarming rate.

Blaine laughed happily at Kurts flustered look. "Like what you see, babe?" he asked cheekily, flashing a charming smile.

Kurt flushed brighter, his own smirk forming. "Just thinking how amazing the blowjobs Im going to convince you to give me one day will feel now."

Blaine blushed heavily, triangular eyebrows shooting upwards as his jaw dropped in shock.

Kurt had no idea just how hot that made him, did he?

He tried to speak, but Kurt already brushed past him with a wink, sashaying his hips as he went to enter the coffee house. Blaine shot out his hand to grab his wrist, causing the brunette to look at him in confusion.

"Wait, dont go in yet," Blaine asked. "I have something for you."

Kurt raised an eyebrow, a smile slowly growing on his lips as he nodded his consent. Surprised, Blaine grinned excitedly as he grabbed his satchel from his bike, pulling out a small object. He held it up for Kurts curious gaze.

It was a leather bracelet, three strands braided together with a heart in the center, a "B" engraved on it. Kurt blushed, not one to wear leather, but finding it beautiful.

"I was hoping youd wear it," Blaine was saying, more mumbling, his face adorably shy. "I mean, you dont have to, what do I care or anything, but I just,... want people to see it on you."

"Why?" Kurt asked, tilting his head curiously.

Blaine grinned, taking Kurts left wrist and tying it on. "Ownership. Males mark their territory. Mine now."

Kurt blushed, the excited feeling growing in his stomach and expanding. The idea of Blaine claiming him was, well, incredibly hot.

"Now people know youre not on the market," Blaine said as he finished the knot. "I know we arent together, but I dont want anyone else to have you, Kurt. Youre mine. I guess you could say this is a promise to... be more one day. ...Ah, that is, if youd like?"

Kurt nodded, perhaps a little too eagerly for someone who was forcefully marked. "Id really, really like that, Blaine. I dont want anyone to have you, either."

He stepped closer to Blaine, wrapping his arms around his neck as the badboys wrapped around his waist. He rested their foreheads together, leaning to the side to whisper in Blaines ear. "If Im yours, youre mine too."

Blaine shivered involuntarily. No, they werent together "officially". But Kurt was his, to some extent, and he would do anything to keep it that way. He wanted more, but...

He tightened his arms, remembering what would have happened had he been a few moments too late to arrive there and fight Karofsky.

He needed to make sure Kurt was safe, first.

-----

The weather was perfect for the stroll they had decided on taking in the park. They had just gotten some ice cream from a vender, hoping to tone down the swelling of Blaines tongue. The boys sat on a bench near the playground, smiling at each other softly.

"So," Kurt started, taking a long lick of his vanilla cone. "What shall we converse about today, my good sir?"

Blaine didnt respond at first, transfixed on the unintentional way Kurt was seducing him with his cone. His thoughts went wild as he pictured that pretty tongue, working on something other than the ice cream as it moved in slow, strong strokes...

"Blaine?"

He shook his head quickly, trying to will down the blush as he faced the boy again. "Hmm?" he hummed, ignoring the smug grin on Kurts lips as he caught on to what happened.

He smiled mischievously, licking his cone even slower, more sensually then before. Blaine tracked its every move, eyes widening when Kurt wrapped his lips on the top and sucked lightly, pulling back with white lips. Blaine groaned quietly as Kurt slowly licked it away.

"I said," Kurt spoke, his voice lower, "What should we talk about?"

"Oh," Blaine blushed, ducking his head shyly, trying to think of something to distract him from his undapper thoughts. "Umm... I know you were on the football team at Dalton, I guess Im curious why you joined at all?"

Kurt frowned, memories of the unhappy time returning to him. "I wasnt there a long time, but I never really wanted to be there in the first place," he said softly. Blaine took Kurts free hand with his own, eliciting a small smile out of the brunette.

"It was my sophomore year. My father had started dating Carole then, so naturally he spent time bonding with Finn. Finn never had a father figure in his life, so Dad took it upon himself to be one for him. It didnt hurt Finn liked to do guy things either, like watch sports and eat junk food and all those things. He was the son Dad never had, and I started to feel more and more distanced from him."

Blaine frowned, running his thumb over Kurts knuckles in a comforting manner. He could relate to a fathers lack of affection or presence.

"I wasnt even out yet, but I was already so different. Dad and I never threw a ball back and forth, we played with tiny tea sets in the backyard. He bought me heels for my birthday, because they were all I wanted. I would walk around the house singing musical numbers, mostly by female singers. I wasnt anything like the boy he pictured raising.

"But after my mom died, we were all we had. He never fully understood me, but he tried to be involved so we could have a relationship. And I could feel it slowly being pulled away from me. So I thought, Maybe if I act straight my father will love me again."

Blaine frowned, his heart clenching uncomfortably.

Yeah. He could relate to that indeed.

"So I made the football team. Dated a girl from the cheerleading team, but she was just a beard. Wore baseball caps and flannel, sung Mellencamp. I hate Mellencamp, but its my Dads favorite band. Everyone was concerned about me, thinking I was showing signs of suicide or depression or something. It was kinda ridiculous really.

"It didnt seem to be working. Dad was always frowning at me, trying to understand what happened to make me change so much. He kept doing guy things with Finn, not even asking me if I wanted to join. He said he knew it wasnt my thing, but he still should have thought to ask! He should have tried to make me feel included!"

Kurt stopped, taking a deep breath to compose himself, Blaine scooting close to release Kurts hand and wrap that arm around the boys waist. Kurt sighed, leaning his head against the badboys.

"I got tired of it. I started going back to my old habits whenever Dad went to the shop. One day he walked in on me recording the video on my channel, the one where I spin the words of Roses Turn."

Kurt smiled. "I ended up coming out to him then. He said he knew since I was three, and he loved me just the same. We had a talk about how I was feeling, and now were stronger than ever."

Blaine smiled, unconsciously turning his head to place a soft kiss on the boys soft hair. Kurt smiled widely, his past pain fading quickly from the small sign of affection.

They finished their ice cream, Blaines swelling down enough to make sense now. As they continued down the path, Blaine reached out towards Kurts wrist, wrapping two fingers on the leather band and tugging Kurt closer. He kept them there as they walked, Kurt flushing at the possessive act.

"Mister! Mister!"

They turned quickly at the noise, seeing a little girl, maybe five or six, running towards them. She had light brown hair and chocolate brown eyes, which were wide with fear.

Blaine crouched down to her level, giving her his full attention. "Whats the matter, Little Miss?" he asked gently, surprising Kurt at the little nickname he instantly gave her.

She sniffled as she pointed behind her. "My kitty got stuck in a tree, and he cant get down!" she cried.

Blaine shushed her, petting her hair gently as he reassured her the cat would be okay. Kurt watched with fascination, in awe of how easily Blaine responded to children.

"Whats your name, hun?" Blaine was asking her.

"Pamela. But I like going by Pammie."

"Well, Pammie, why dont you take me to Mr. Toothless and Ill see if I can help him, okay? How does that sound?"

She nodded her head, and he stood up and took her hand. Kurt smiled at her when she offered her other one to him, and he gladly took it, letting her lead the two of them towards the tree.

"Toothless?" Kurt asked curiously.

Pammie nodded feverently. "Yes, like the dragon in the one movie!"

"How To Train Your Dragon?" Blaine said.

She nodded her head, excited an older person understood the reference. Kurt glanced over at him questionably, and the boy just shrugged.

"Dreamworks is almost as good as Disney," he said.

Kurt smiled, letting Pammie pull a little too hard. When she brought them to a tree and pointed up, Kurt understood the name. The cat was black, and looked down at them with bright green eyes. He had a red bandana around his neck. He meowed at them, baring his teeth slightly.

Blaine kneeled next to the girl again. "Okay, Little Miss, you stay here with Kurt while I go up. Hell keep you company."

She promised she would and Blaine started shimmying up the tree. Pammie turned to Kurt, raising her arms above her head towards him.

"Will you hold me?" she asked sweetly. Kurt looked surprised, but agreed and scooped the child up into his arms. She wrapped her legs around his waist so he could support her on his hip. They looked up as Blaine reached the branch below Toothless and started talking quietly to the cat.

"Are you two dating?" Pammie asked suddenly, looking at Kurt expectantly.

Kurts eyes widened, but he answered honestly. "No, we arent, sweet pea."

"Why not? I saw you two holding hands earlier. And he kissed your head when you sat on that bench. I saw while I was on the slide."

Kurt blushed slightly. "Well, sometimes you hold hands and kiss when you like each other, but you arent necessarily dating."

She nodded thoughtfully. "Okay. Like how Hiccup and Astrid kiss and ride dragons together, but arent really dating either. Thats okay. Im sure theyll get married one day."

Kurt smiled at her innocence. It was so endearing to see the imaginative optimism of a child. He looked up to see Blaine had gotten within reach of the cat. Toothless looked apprehensive, but wasnt snarling anymore.

"Its okay," Blaine said softly. "I wont hurt you."

Blaine held out his hand, his palm towards the cat and his fingers pointing up. Toothless hesitated slightly, but rubbed his head against the hand and purred softly. Blaine grinned and pet the cat gently, who walked onto his shoulder and promptly sat down. Blaine laughed happily.

Kurt was sure his heart melted from that point on.

Slowly Blaine climbed back down, Toothless rubbing against his head and purring in thanks. Blaine smiled as he reached the ground, extracting the feline from his shoulder to present to Pammie.

"Your dragon, my dear," he said in a Scottish accent. Pammie giggled as Kurt laughed, placing the child down so she could claim her pet.

"Thanks Mister, thank you Kurt!" she smiled happily, giving them each a one handed hug before she ran back towards the playground. Kurt smiled happily at Blaine, who was staring at Kurt with such a strange expression.

Blaine was stunned. The sight of Kurt, so beautiful, with a child on his hip... it did things to him. He might have fallen just a little more for the angel.

Kurt smiled, holding his hand back out. Blaine grinned and accepted it, and they resumed their walk.

-----

They ended up on Blaines bike to have dinner. After a half hour of driving, Blaine pulled up in front of a cute looking diner, music waving out. It was the size of a big mall store, with stylish, modern designs and neon letters spelling out "Forget-Me-Not". Kurt dismounted and handed Blaine the helmet, to which Blaine ignored in favor of lifting his hands to Kurts hair and fixing the slight shift the helmet had caused in the style.

Kurt blushed heavily, surprised he was allowing Blaine to even touch his hair, much less style it like he was. Blaine was glad he had strategically kept on his helmet before. The delighted expression he made at getting permission to do something so domestic and intimate as primping was far too embarrassing to let Kurt see.

When they finally walked in, Blaine wrapped an arm around Kurts waist and led him to the back. He flashed his ID to the security, who waved him through. Kurt looked at him curiously, wondering how he had access like that.

"Oh, a relative of mine owns the place," Blaine answered easily, and Kurt realized he must have spoken aloud.

"So you get to come in here often?" Kurt asked curiously.

Blaine nodded. "Yeah, sometimes I work the tables to help out. Katianna works here on the weekends, and the open mic is always a fun event to listen to."

They found a circular booth in the back, with the view of the stage for the open mic in clear view. Kurt scooted in the center, Blaine following closely and sitting near enough for their legs to be flushed against the other. They both blushed slightly but chose not to comment. Kurt looked around a bit anxiously.

He looked up as Blaine took his hand, a gentle smile on his face. "Its okay," he said fondly. "My aunt is gay too, shes completely supportive and doesnt allow homophobic behaviors here. This is a safe place."

Kurt smiled, relieved and excited he could show affection with another boy, not that he wanted to or anything, but the option was there. Hes never had the option before; it was exhilarating.

He looked at Blaine taking in the new accessories he adorned, his gorgeous face, silky curly hair, before gazing into the toffee brown-hazel green eyes, whose color seemed to always be shifting. The dark setting of the room, backdropped with neon lights like a nightclub, a candle glowing on the table with a rose and Forget-Me-Not bouquet, the soft background music during the lull of performances.

Kurt was falling in love. And he couldnt find it in himself to be concerned.

"Whats going on in that beautiful mind?" Blaine asked softly, transfixed in the sea of blues and bits of green and gray that was Kurt Hummels eyes.

Kurt blushed softly, shaking his head. "Were on a date, arent we?"

Blaine startled, leaning back a bit to reflect. The coffee at the Lima bean, where Blaine paid; the walk in the park, getting ice cream, where Kurt paid; the restaurant with an open mic, which Blaine was planning on paying for.

Huh. He and Kurt were on a date.

A hesitant look appeared on his face. "We dont have to be, I mean neither of us even asked, and I dont want any pressuring..."

"Blaine."

Blaine stopped, taking a deep breathe, still not looking up. "I want it to be," he finally muttered. "But only if you want it to be, too."

Kurt smiled, putting his hand on Blaines chin to lift his head gently, looking eyes again. "Blaine, will you go on the rest of this date with me?"

Blaine smiled widely, suppressing the urge to kiss this perfect boy. "Id be honored."

Kurt smiled. He was falling hard.

-----

The night was going so perfectly.

They chattered and conversed easily, unconsciously getting closer and increasingly bold with one another. Blaine would put his hand on Kurts knee and stroke it, Kurt would touch Blaines arm and squeeze, and so forth.

Blaine was excited. When he had first decided to change his look, he was pretty apprehensive. He didnt want to wear leather and piercings, much as they were growing on him. But he figured the more dangerous he appeared, the more the jocks would think twice about messing with him and his friends.

He was worried Kurt would be disappointed. He would see the look from Tough to Dangerous and be scared off, wouldnt want anything to do with him anymore.

But Kurt didnt do that. In fact, Blaine had never seen so many bedroom eyes from Kurt in all the weeks theyve known each other. And it was not helping out towards his affection for the boy, either.

Blaine grinned brightly, taking Kurts hand and pulling him up from the table. "Lets sing, Kurt."

Kurt looked pleasantly surprised, a small blush adorning his cheeks. "Okay," he agreed quietly, a smile growing. Blaine pulled him up to the mic, going to the DJ to request a song choice. He picked up the other microphone and whispered the name in Kurts ear.

Kurt smiled adorably as the song started up. He was going to enjoy this.

"All this talking to you,

I dont know what Im to do,

I dont know where you stand,

Whats inside of your head."

Blaine smiled as he watched Kurts stage persona take hold. He loved getting to see the boy like this.

"All this thinkin of you,

Is that what youre doin too?

Youre always on my mind,

I talk about you all of the time."

They danced around each other, cordless microphones at their lips and hearts in their eyes.

"Dont waste another day,

Dont waste another minute.

I cant wait to see your face,

Just to show you how much Im in it.

So open up your heart.

Help me understand.

Please tell me who you are,

So I can show you who I am."

The crowd around them was getting animated, loving the playful banter the boys were using as they sung around each other. They clapped along, calling out encouragement and cheers. Blaine smiled at Kurt, waiting for the boy to make the connection to the song. For now, Kurt was still clueless.

"Youre just standing by,

Youre just wasting time.

Why dont you just tell me the truth,

About me and you."

"And as the time goes by,

I hope you realize,

If you ask me to,

I just might be with you."

Blaine watched as a bit of dawning started to appear on Kurts face. He grinned to himself; he was enjoying this so much. He nearly killed himself getting the nerves to even ask Kurt up here, but he was so happy he had. Singing with Kurt was like his personal heroin; he was addicted, with no hope of recovery.

"So dont waste another day,

Dont waste another minute.

I cant wait to see your face,

Just to show you how much Im in it.

Open up your heart.

Help me understand.

Please tell me who you are,

So I can show you who I am."

A girl threw a rose from the vase at her table up at them. Blaine caught it on a whirl, winking at her dramatically before sliding on his knees up to Kurt, presenting the rose.

"Stop standing there."

"Standing there."

"And stop acting like you dont care"

Blaine held it expectantly, and Kurt looked down into his eyes. He bit his lip.

"And stop being scared.

"Being scared."

"Stop acting like you dont care-re-re"

Kurt took the rose. Blaine smiled brilliantly as the crowd cheered. He got to his feet, taking Kurt into a playful waltz as they finished the number. Kurt laughed, their number more playful than a performance now, but the crowd was eating it up.

"So dont waste another day.

Dont waste another minute.

I cant wait to see your face,

Just to show you how much Im in it.

Open up your heart.

Help me understand.

Please tell me who you are,

So I can show you who I am.

So dont waste another day.

Dont waste another minute.

I cant wait to see your face,

Just to show you how much Im in it.

Open up your heart.

Help me understand.

Please tell me who you are,

So I can show you who I am."

Blaine slowed them down, his hands on Kurts hips. Kurts arms were around his neck, the rose dangling from his fingers. They gazed into each others eyes.

"Who I am."

"Who I am."

"Who I am."

The crowd applauded loudly. It was clear as day the affection the two boys had for each other; their chemistry was unmistakable. The girl who threw the rose cupped her hands to her face, and yelled out excitingly at them.

"Kiss him! Kiss him!"

The boys both blushed furiously. Amused, the rest of the patrons started to chant as well, adding foot stomps and banging on their tables.

"Kiss, him! Kiss, him! Kiss, him!"

"Are you talking to me, or him?" Blaine asked jokingly into his microphone, winking as the crowd laughed and continued the chant.

Kurt looked at him, a shy smile on his face. He leaned closer to Blaine, clutching the back of his leather jacket tightly.

"I do believe its my turn to kiss you, Mr. Anderson."

Before Blaine could register the boys words, Kurt pulled Blaine flush and planted a passionate kiss against his lips, filled with pent-up desire and admiration. The crowd roared in delight as Blaine tightened his grasp and kissed back with equal passion.

One by one, the rest of the women in the room threw their roses, red and yellow dotting the stage, cheering and applauding. Blaine pulled back to breathe, winking at Kurt before dipping him and kissing him again. The womens screams reached what Blaine dubbed as fangirl level, and he grinned against Kurts lips.

A short, middle aged woman with short, straight black hair, olive skin, and dark green eyes tapped Blaine on the shoulder. Reluctantly, he pulled Kurt up and faced her, knowing fully well who it was. Kurt clutched Blaines arm, a bit lightheaded.

"They may have asked, but I do believe youve kissed him enough, Blaine," she said with a smirk.

Blaine smiled sheepishly. "Sorry, Aunt Gwendolyn."

She laughed good naturally and pulled the two off-stage, leading them to their table, where she promptly sat in one of the seats. She rested her chin on her hands and looked at them with large, expectant eyes.

Blaine rolled his eyes in mock annoyance. "Kurt, this is my aunt Gwen. She owns this place."

Kurt held out his hand, a pleasant smile on his face. "Kurt Hummel, maam. Its wonderful to meet you. You have a beautiful place of business."

Gwen raised her eyebrows in approval and shook the boys hand. "How long have you been keeping this one from me, Blainey?" she asked teasingly as she released his hand.

Blaine flushed slightly. "I havent, Aunt Gwen. Were... friends."

She looked at him disbelievingly. "I dont know about you, but I certainly dont kiss my friends like that, crowd pleaser or not."

Blaine ran his hand through his hair, looking shy. "Its... complicated."

Gwen looked at them again, raising an eyebrow. "I can tell," she murmured. "Because youve unconsciously held hands and sat flushed together again."

Both boys startled, looking down to see she was right. Their hands were joined on the table, Blaines thumb running across Kurts knuckles. Kurts wrist with the bracelet was on the table as well, the rose Blaine had handed him held loosely between his fingers. They blushed heavily, but made no attempt to separate. This did not go unnoticed.

"You two are adorable," Gwen stated. "Ill be sure to give Katianna a bonus for throwing that rose and starting that chant. The people love interactive entertainment."

"Wait, that was Katianna?" Kurt asked, confused.

Blaine looked back at the table, seeing the girl and a boy her age with two older women. She caught his eye and winked.

He smiled. "Yeah, thats her. She brought her family with."

"Her family?" Kurt asked, looking at the table and waiving back at her.

Blaine nodded. "Thats her twin brother James, and her mothers Grace and Genie."

Kurts eyes widened in shock. "Her mothers?"

Blaine grinned. "Yep. Guess which one is the biological one?"

Kurt looked closely. Both women and the boy had brown eyes, but only one of the mothers had brown hair; the other had jet black. "Umm... The brunette?"

"Ding Ding Ding!" Blaine cheered.

Gwen rolled her eyes. "Cavities. I have cavities now, I tell you."

Blaine waved her off, smiling at Kurt, who pushed his shoulder playfully.

Gwen stood up, ruffling Blaines hair. "I gotta head back, boys. Feel free to order some dessert; its on the House."

"No, we cant - " Blaine started to say, but with a twirl Gwen headed towards the back, waving her fingers behind her back as a farewell.

Kurt smiled, but frowned as he looked back at Katiannas table. She was arguing quietly with her brother, who had an uncomfortable look on his face. She looked disappointed.

"I wonder what happened?" he mused aloud.

Blaine followed his line of sight, frowning as he caught eyes with James. The boy frowned deeper, making his sister angry.

"James isnt exactly... entirely comfortable, or accepting, of the LGBT community," Blaine explained quietly.

Kurt looked confused. "How is that possible? His parents are gay, for Gods sake!"

Blaine shrugged. "Mystery of nature, I guess."

Kurt looked back at Katianna, who was sending an apologetic look at him. He smiled back reassuringly, and she sighed in relief.

"Lets get dessert, okay? Im dying for some of that cheesecake," Kurt said seriously.

Blaine laughed, raising Kurts hand to press a kiss to his knuckles, not even thinking about it. Kurt only smiled wider.

Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Katianna smile as well.

-----

"Dont make me go inside," Kurt whined, still clutching Blaine from behind, adamant to never let go.

Blaine laughed quietly, shaking his head fondly. "Believe me, if it was up to me I wouldnt, but Ive yet to meet your father. I dont want a bad first impression by kidnapping you."

Kurt sighed dramatically. "I know, youre right. I just dont want today to end."

Blaine sighed sadly. He turned around in Kurts arms, still straddling his bike, and took Kurts helmet off his head. The boy pouted up at him, giving him puppy eyes. Blaine felt his stomach swoop.

"Nope, sorry. I quite like life, thank you very much. You gotta go in."

Kurt stood up, keeping his hold on the boy and burying his face in his neck. "Dont wanna," he said, his voice muffled. "Dont want to leave your arms, ever."

Blaine could feel the heat of Kurts face as he blushed, clearly not having meant to say that out loud. He was glad the boy couldnt see his own blush.

"Me neither," he whispered, wrapping his own arms tightly around the slightly taller boy.

Kurt buried his face in deeper. "I hate saying goodbye to you," he whispered, barely audible against Blaines skin.

Blaine kissed his temple gently. "I hate it more."

"Impossible."

"No, I do."

"You liar."

"I cant lie to you, Kurt," Blaine admitted. Kurt pulled back to look at him. "Not anymore. I just... cant."

Kurt smiled sadly. "Walk me to the door?" he requested gently.

Blaine smiled. "What kind of first date would this be if I didnt?"

Too soon Kurt had to let go of his hand. He turned to the boy; he looked so beautiful under the glow of the porch light, the night sky behind him.

"I had a wonderful day, Blaine," Kurt said, suddenly bashful. "I couldnt ask for a better first date."

"It was perfect because it was with you," Blaine said gently. He leaned in, but turned his head and pressed a lingering kiss to the boys smooth cheek. Kurt exhaled shakily.

"Goodnight, babe," Blaine whispered.

Kurt swallowed audibly. "Goodnight, Blaine."

Blaine smiled before walking back towards his bike. Kurt watched him ride off, the roar of the motor fading into the night. He smiled a bittersweet smile.

No, they werent dating. Going on a date didnt make you boyfriends.

...But maybe after a few more, he would be ready to take that step.

Maybe itll be safe by then.

-----

Hi, youve reached the voicemail of Kurt Hummel. Sorry I missed your call, I cant get to the phone right now. I probably wont call back, so try again later! Leave a message if you want, but I probably wont listen to it. *Beep.*

"Kurt, its Dad. Whats going on? Your principal called, said there was an incident, and this girl called Mercedes said she got my number from your phone, youre hurt and I need to get to school now. Are you okay? Whats wrong? Son, answer the phone, please!"

-----

A few hours prior...

-----

It was inevitable, really. It was naïve to think he could be saved from every incident.

But it still hurt. Hurt his pride, his spirit, not to mention his body...

He never even saw it coming.

It had been a week since the date. Blaine was in detention, and there wasnt Glee today, so Kurt was going to stay in the library and wait for the boy. He was the last in the locker room, finishing his hair.

And thats when they struck.

It was innocent enough. A boy or two came back in, opening their lockers and rummaging through like they forgot something. Kurt paid them no mind.

Then more came in, sticking up conversation with the rest, giving them a reason to stay in the room. Kurt looked at them warily but continued his routine.

One came in and walked up to the mirror, saying he forgot a spot when he shaved. Kurt glanced at him suspiciously. There wasnt a single hair on the boys face.

Walking back to his locker, Kurt searched for his satchel. He put his phone in the bag, knowing it needed to be off if he was going to be studying.

That was the sign they were waiting for.

Kurt jumped as Azimio appeared, shutting Kurts locker closed in his face. He went to back away, only to run into a much larger mass. Turning around quickly, he looked as Karofsky smirked, and two boys ripped Kurts satchel from his hands.

Kurts heart stuttered. "What the hell do you Neanderthals want now?" he asked hautily, crossing his arms across his chest in an aggressive manner.

"Oh, The Furys just been dying to meet you, Lady," Karofsky sneered, backing Kurt into his locker.

"The Fury?" Kurt asked in bewilderment, refusing to let them see his fear.

"Yeah, its what I named my fist."

"Well, with that level of creativity you could easily become assistant manager at a rendering plant," Kurt snarked out, hiding his fear with irritation.

Karofsky snarled, pinning Kurt up against the lockers. "I dont know what that is, but since you said it, Im gonna assume its bad."

Kurts eyes widened as Dave made physical contact. He was growing accustomed to the bullying, against his better judgement, but this felt .... different.

This felt like that attempt made weeks ago. The one where he called Blaine for help.

Kurt looked at his satchel in the unknown boys hands. His phone was in there.

He couldnt call Blaine this time.

He couldnt call anyone.

Grinning manically, Karofsky nodded his head, stepping back.

Kurt closed his eyes, one thought on his mind.

Blaine.

-----

The moment Blaine stepped out into the hallway and found it void of any fashionable brunettes, he began to worry.

He tried calling first.

Hi, youve reached the voicemail of Kurt Hummel. Sorry I missed your call, I cant get to the phone right now. I probably wont call back, so try again later! Leave a message if you want, but I probably wont listen to it. *Beep.*

Okay. He tried not to panic. Kurt probably turned his phone off, thats all. No reason to panic.

He walked to the library, hopping to find the countertenor hunched over some books, working avidly on his schoolwork so he could spend more time with Blaine.

No Kurt.

Panic.

Do. Not. Panic.

Maybe hes waiting by his car? he thought, hoping to find the beautiful designer leaning against his Navigator, or even Blaines bike, a flirty smile on his lips.

Nothing. Nothing but said Navigator still in the parking lot.

"No, no no no!" He exclaimed, panic seeping in fully.

Kurt was in trouble. Something happened.

And Blaine hadnt been there to stop it.

-----

The pain was unbearable.

He couldnt even remember what they did. All he knew was that it hurt.

They didnt break anything, his head wasnt bleeding, overall he wasnt hurt too badly. They were strangely strategic in their assault.

But it wasnt the physical pain that kept him on the dirty, cold floor.

It was the emotional.

Look at your faggy ass. Is it really such a surprise youre a pussy virgin?

I betcha no one is gonna want you after we give your face some actual color.

This is what happens when you act the way you do. Not in this town, freak.

What a fag, cant even throw a decent punch back. And you call yourself a man.

Your boy toy cant save you now, homo.

No one, not even Anderson, is ever gonna love you. Youll die all alone, just like you deserve.

He just laid there and took it. All his snark, all his wit, his fight just drained the moment they mentioned Blaine.

Sweet, beautiful Blaine, who hid behind leather and spikes to save himself from attacks like this. Talented, amazing Blaine, who was going to go so far in life. Blaine, who stood up for the underdogs, who wanted to make life better for everyone.

They were right. Why would Blaine ever love him? Why would anyone for that matter?

He didnt deserve love. He never had.

The tears were still falling silently when a noise startled him. Blaine had burst through the door, calling out "Kurt!" in a desperate tone, panic and fear resonating in his voice. Kurt closed his eyes, his head falling back to the cold, dirty tiles. The tears came faster, a relieved sob breaking through his lips.

Blaines here. Blaine came for me. He really came for me.

"Kurt!" Blaine cried again, freezing as he caught sight of the boy in question. He sucked in a gasp, shaky hand coming up to cover his mouth in agony. He felt a roll of nausea wash through his stomach, and he blinked back the rising moisture in his eyes.

Kurt, his beautiful, perfect Kurt, was lying on the hard tiles, his clothes torn, hair a mess, lip busted, black eye forming, and probably so much more he couldnt see. He looked so battered, so vulnerable, so defeated. It nearly killed him to see the tears dripping from his eyes.

Kurts bloody lips pulled apart, his voice barley audible and raspy, and so beautiful at once; "Blaine."

Letting a sob escape his chest, Blaine crouched below the boy, gathering him in his arms carefully. He cradled Kurts head to his chest, who turned into him and began crying harder, his entire frame shaking as he clutched the leather jacket around the one thing he considered safe anymore.

"These battle scars dont look like theyre fading," Blaine sang softly, rocking Kurt gently as he comforted him. Kurt started to quiet, feeling soothed and protected, despite the odd song choice.

"Dont look like theyre ever going away.

They aint never gonna change."

This wasnt technically a good song, but it showed up in Blaines mind so he went with it. Hed have to skip parts and keep it short, or the point would be lost.

"Now youre down on the ground screaming medic,

The only thing that comes is the post-traumatic stresses.

Shields, body armors and vests dont properly work,

Thats why youre in a locker full of hurt.

The enemy within and all the fires from your friends."

He startled as a pale hand wiped away wetness on his cheek. He didnt even know he was crying. He breathed shakily, nuzzling into the hand as he closed his eyes, his voice barely a whisper.

"I wish that I could stop cause it hurts so much."

A hiccup broke from his chest, and he lifted his head to lock gazes with the boy that meant so much to him. Kurt starred back, an undeniable sadness shadowing the sparkle Blaine loved seeing.

"Kurt," He choked out, pressing soft, butterfly kisses to Kurts temple, nose, cheeks, eyelids, any part he could reach. He wanted to lament his inability to kiss his lips, given the blood and cut, but there were more important things to worry about.

"Blaine," Kurt whispered, placing his head over Blaines heart, the steady thumping setting him at ease. Blaines arms tightened around him in response.

-----

"So whats the verdict?"

Blaine rubbed his eyes, sighing before turning back to face Katianna.

"Bruising, outward and internal, along with a split lip, black eye, and a slight concussion. Hes going to be okay."

"Oh, honey, thats wonderful," she smiled, placing her hand on his upper arm in a comforting manor. He smiled slightly, his concern still showing through. She tilted her head, a calculating look on her face.

"You really care about him, dont you?" she asked softly.

Blaine looked into her eyes, which were fiery with determination. "Hes my best friend. Il mio migliore amico. Any pain he has is my pain."

She smiled softly. "You know what Im asking."

He sighed, his shoulder dropping like it held the weight of the world. "I dont know what to do anymore," he whispered. "The teachers dont care, the jocks wont stop, no matter what I do to them. I did this to my appearance in hopes theyd be more intimidated. But they just wont stop."

"I dont know what to do," he repeated, sounding broken.

Katianna put her hand under his chin, lifting his head to look at her. "Sometimes you cant solve everything by fighting," she murmured. "It seems like the ultimate solution, being able to fight, but it doesnt change someones mindset."

She released him and smiled sadly, getting up leave the room. She paused in the doorway, looking back at him.

"I think the best you can do right now is be there to keep him together. Let him know he matters, hes cared for," she said. She paused, a look of contemplation gracing her features. "Help him feel loved."

With that she turned and softly closed the door behind her.

Blaine stared at the door, a look of comprehension dawning.

Loved.

He could work with that.

-----

Blaine sat by the piano, facing the entire club, but keeping his eyes glued to Kurt. Kurt, who, even with cuts and bruises, still looked as beautiful as the day Blaine met him. The piano played slowly, letting the violins and others. Blaine recruited in the back turn the song into a haunting ballad.

"Much as you blame yourself, you cant be blamed for the way that you feel.

Had no example of a love that was even remotely real.

How can you understand something that you never had?

Ooh, baby, if you let me, I can help you out with all of that."

The members looked back at Kurt, offering sympathetic smiles and reassuring looks. But they went unnoticed as Kurt was visibly affected and completely captivated.

"Boy let me love you,

And I will love you,

Until you learn to love yourself.

Boy let me love you,

I know your trouble,

Dont be afraid, boy let me help.

Boy let me love you,

And I will love you,

Until you learn to love yourself.

Boy let me love you,

A heart of numbness gets brought to life,

Ill take you there.

Boy let me love you,

Boy let me love you, baby, oh,

Let me love you, let me love you, oh."

Blaine knew what Kurt was thinking. The after effects of a beating usually involves self-loathing, insecurity, pointlessness and fear. He had to get rid of it; no one did for him, and it still remained, deep inside, where only Kurt had been able to catch glimpses.

"I can see the pain behind your eyes,

Its been there for quite a while.

I just wanna be the one to remind you what it is to smile.

I would like to show you what true love can really do."

Kurt showed a ghost of a smile as the song rose in power, crescendos and pitch empowering the lyrics and the performance. He could never get tired of being serenaded, circumstances none ideal or no.

"Boy let me love you,

And I will love you,

Until you learn to love yourself.

Boy let me love you,

I know your trouble,

Dont be afraid, boy let me help.

Boy let me love you,

And I will love you,

Until you learn to love yourself.

Boy let me love you,

A heart of numbness, gets brought to life,

Ill take you there.

Boy let me love you

Let me love you, let me love you, baby

Boy let me love you

Let me love you, boy let me love you, baby

For every heart that beats,

For every heart that beats,

Heart that beats

Heart that beats...

Boy let me love you,

And I will love you,

Until you learn to love yourself.

Boy let me love you,

I know your trouble,

Dont be afraid, boy let me help.

Boy let me love you,

And I will love you,

Until you learn to love yourself.

Boy let me love you,

A heart of numbness, gets brought to life,

Ill take you there.

Boy let me love you

Let me love you, baby, love you, baby

Boy let me love you

Let me love you babe, love you babe, ooh-ooh-ah."

The club clapped politely, staying silent as they watched Kurt break out of his daze and clap with enthusiasm, tears marks tracked on his pale skin.

No one said anything when Blaine sat next to Kurt, pulling him into his arms, the other boy wrapping around him tightly.

No one commented how they stayed cuddled together the rest of the practice. And when Blaine whispered in Kurts ear, and the boy smiled his first real smile all day, they knew he was gonna be okay.