Chapter Eight: I Know What I Know

A deep sigh.  That was all he heard over the crackling phone line.

Blaine had been trembling the entire time he'd been talking to his mother about what had happened over the weekend.  All he wanted was to do his best and to make his parents proud of him.  But it was really hard to feel like they still loved and wanted him when his parents spent six or eight months of the year in a foreign country.  How could they love him, if they didn't even know him?

And then, to have to call and explain “Hey, Mama, I have a boyfriend now and we spent the night alone at our house.  In my bed.  With only our underwear separating us.  Hope you don't mind.  How's Dad?” Not that he'd used those words exactly…but that was the gist of his story.

Nick had tried to cheer him up by saying it would make a great anecdote to share when he was best man at Blaine and Kurt's wedding.

Blaine may or may not have expressed his displeasure at Nick through sharing his entire repertoire of obscene finger gestures.  Which didn't prevent Nick from tossing his car keys to Blaine, with a grin, acknowledging the fact that Blaine was going to be late to work this morning.

“Blaine?” his mother's voice finally came through the phone.  “Sweetheart, I want you to know that I am happy that you have found someone that you care about.  I really, truly am.  I am looking forward to meeting Kurt when we come back to Ohio in October.  You also need to know how deeply disappointed I am in your behavior.”

Pinching the bridge of his nose, Blaine lay back on his bed in Nana Sterling's house listening to the reproach in his mother's voice.

“Part of why we have let you stay in Ohio was because we know how important your friends are to you, Blaine.  But you know we never would have allowed you to have your boyfriend over alone, let alone sleep in the same bed.”

“I know, Mama,” Blaine answered quietly.  “I'm sorry I broke your trust.  It won't happen again.”

“I know it won't, Blaine,” his mother stated firmly.  “I fully support the restrictions that Pete and Kurt's father have laid out for the two of you.  I think they are fair consequences to the lack of judgment you both showed.  However, I need you to understand this…if you pull anything else like this with Kurt again, I will be the one to call Dalton and have him placed on the Visitor Exclusions list.  I will also revoke your open campus privileges.  You won't be able to leave, and he won't be able to visit.”

Blaine felt an overwhelming tightness in his chest.  “Mama, please, no.  Don't do that,” he pleaded.

“Like driving a car, leaving school and hosting visitors are privileges, Blaine.  You earn privileges by showing maturity and good judgment.  I'm not changing anything yet, because I trust you when you say you will abide by the rules – Dalton's rules, the Sterling's rules, and our family rules, Blaine.”

“Yes, Mama.”

“I love you, Blaine.  And I'm proud of you for admitting what you did.  That took a lot of courage.  Now, I know you need to go to work, so I'll let you go.  Look at yourself in the mirror and give yourself a hug from me.”

A weak smile formed on Blaine's lips at his mother's ritual goodbye.  “I will, Mama.  I love you, too.”

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“You're alive,” teased Nick as he walked over to Kurt.  The lap swimmers were climbing out of the pool, and since there was no sign of Blaine, Nick let Rebecca and Jeff know he'd be taking over Kurt's lesson in the meantime. 

Kurt could feel himself flush with embarrassment.  It was the first time he'd seen anyone since they'd left the party on Saturday.  “Yes.  Alive.  I was more worried about what my dad would do to Blaine.  Nick, I'm so sorry you got dragged into our…our fight and everything that happened after.  I can't imagine what your parents are thinking.”

Nick slung his arm over Kurt's shoulders, guiding him across the pool deck towards the lifeguards' table and chairs.  “Meh.  Mom and Dad get it.  Don't worry.  But we do need to talk about how we're going to approach this thing with Austin while we're in the pool this morning.”

Swinging his head around, Kurt noticed for the first time that Blaine wasn't anywhere around.  “Nick, where's Blaine?  They didn't-?”

“No, they didn't fire him.  There's no cause.  No, his mom finally called him back, so he's talking with her right now.  He'll be here, eventually.  I gave him my keys and told him I'd take over your lesson until he got here.”  Nick had walked over to the ladder while talking, but stopped to look at Kurt.  “I mean, I realize that I kinda assumed you'd be okay with that by now.”

Kurt's eyes widened at the implication.  “Oh god, yes.  Nick, I'm perfectly fine with you giving me my lesson,” he assured.

Nick took a deep breath and let it out slowly.  “Good.  I'm glad.  Okay, let's do a little warm up and then we can swim some laps.  Blaine said you still need to learn to tread water, but I thought I'd save that for him.  Besides, this will give us some time to talk about…you know.”

Nodding, Kurt climbed down into the pool and followed Nick out to the middle of the pool where they began stretching and warming up for swimming laps.  “So what can you tell me about Austin?”

Keeping his voice low, Nick shared much of what had taken place after Kurt and Blaine had left the party.  “He's doing okay.  I've tried to talk to him about telling his parents or Jeff or Pete…that he likes boys, but he refuses.  I don't think it has anything to do with how he feels they'll react, but more about protecting Owen.”

“Everyone has to come out at their own pace,” Kurt observed.

“I know,” Nick answered.  “I just think…he's really young to be dealing with all of this by himself.  And that's not how the Sterlings usually operate.  Right now, it's you, me and Blaine who know.”

“And Owen,” Kurt added with a smile.

Nick laughed.  “Yeah, and Owen.  Oh, you should know that Austin saw two of our gardeners leaving the wine cellar right after he saw Blaine in tears.  Cliché, I know.  But no one questioned it.”

“Gardeners.  Got it.”

Pushing away from the wall, Nick gestured for Kurt to follow him.  “So, any particular order you want to go in?”

Kurt stared out at the deep end of the pool where the sun was just beginning to break over the tree line in the distance.  “Back, side, crawl.”

“Okay.  Today we're working on endurance.  I don't want you to not be able to complete the test because you run out of energy,” Nick explained.

Shooting Nick an incredulously look, Kurt scoffed, “It's three laps, Nick, not the Iron Man.”

Nick shot his own look to Kurt.  “Uh huh.  And you've been swimming laps for how long?  Three weeks tops?  Listen, I don't mean to get down on you.  But I know what nerves can do to you.  You're going to go in to the test like we do to a swim meet.  All excited and nervous.  You're gonna push yourself to swim faster than normal, because you'll want to just get it done.  If you don't time things right, you will run out of energy.  And if you fail the test this month, there will be four more weeks before you and Blaine can see each other again outside of being chaperoned.”

Dropping his eyes, Kurt muttered, “He told you.”

“He's my closest friend, Kurt.  Yes, he told me everything,” Nick confirmed.

The tone of Nick's words drew Kurt's attention back up.  “Wait, everything everything?”

“Everything, everything.  Friday night.  Saturday night.  Sunday's drive home with your dad.  You own his heart, Kurt.  He doesn't want to screw things up – and he feels really conflicted about spending the night with you.  Mostly because he feels responsible for breaking the trust of all the adults in your lives.”

Running his hand through his hair, Kurt sighed.  “That's so stupid, Nick.  I was right there with him.  If it wasn't something I wanted, I would have said something.  Did he tell you that staying at his house was my idea?  He offered to go back to your house, and I said I wanted to stay.  He offered a guest room, and I told him I wanted to be next to him.  God, we need to talk.”

Nick reached a hand out to squeeze Kurt's shoulder.  “Not going to get an argument here.  Maybe…maybe you could bring him some lunch today?  I'm sure we could give you guys some privacy.  I'll make sure Jordan makes sure Jeff is otherwise occupied.”  Nick was happy to note that Kurt was smiling again.  “Just an idea.” 

Clearing his throat, Nick went back into lecture mode.  “So, as I was saying before, we need to work on your endurance.  You need to carb up before your test, so we'll take you out for pasta.  No, don't shake your head.  Tori and I would love to chaperone…from our own table.  What you are going to do today to ensure our awesome double date is swim for seven minutes straight, then you take a break for two, then seven minutes with the next stroke, two minute break, etc.  What I want you to think about is pacing yourself, so you can make the entire seven minutes.  I'll swim next to you and call out the time.  Got it?”

Kurt nodded, taking a few slow deep breaths before turning so his back was towards the deep end.  “Let's do this, Duvall.”  With that said, Kurt pushed off the bottom of the pool and began swimming laps.  If he allowed his mind to drift off to the happier moments of the past three days, so be it.

Kurt had just finished fixing his hair when he heard the door to the locker room open.  Blaine's voice echoed as he called out, “Kurt? Are you still in here?”

“Yes, Blaine,” he answered.  Bending to place his comb and hairspray back in his duffle bag, Kurt wasn't surprised to see Blaine in the mirror when he stood back up.  “Hi!” he said with a smile.

Guilt was written all over Blaine's face.  “I'm so sorry for missing our lesson, Kurt. I-”

“Was talking to your mom,” interrupted Kurt.  “Nick told me.  It's all good. He had me work on my endurance,” Kurt explained, waggling his eyebrows suggestively.  He might have added more, but they weren't alone in the locker room, as kids of all sizes were coming in and out to change, use the toilets, or to shower before going into the pool.

Blaine's guilt slowly faded into interest.  “Really?”

“Yup.  Seven minutes of lap swim per stroke with a two minute break in between.  I think I'm going to need a nap this afternoon…then he went and told me that you guys swim like 45 minutes to an hour almost without stopping when you're training during swim season.”  Kurt's tone was one of admiration laced with disbelief.

Glancing around, Kurt stepped up to Blaine. “Now I understand how you earned that amazing physique, Anderson.”  Kurt kept his voice low, and made sure to hold Blaine's gaze for two heartbeats longer than necessary before languidly sliding his eyes down Blaine's tanned chest, and a bit further, before making the return journey.  He winked flirtatiously, then flounced out of the locker room, into the morning's heat.

“Hummel,” ground out Blaine as he chased after his boyfriend.

Kurt had almost made it to the gate by the spectators' bleachers by the time Blaine caught up to him.  “Hey, what's the hurry?” he asked, concerned.

Stopping with his hand on the gate, Kurt's looked pointedly in the direction of Rebecca Michaels, who was sitting in the lifeguard chair, supervising the morning set up for classes.  “It was a little chilly this morning when I got here,” he whispered with a frown.

Blaine closed his eyes and sighed.

Still speaking so no one could over hear, Kurt attempted to reassure Blaine. “Don't apologize.  We were both at fault…and I'd do it again.  Without our misunderstanding.  But the waking up with you.  Definitely looking forward to a repeat of that.  So no more sad, puppy dog faces.  How did Pete put it?  We'll do the time, and then…maybe work on not get caught next time?”

Blaine laughed.  Kurt was adorable when he was plotting to misbehave. 

“Anderson! Wrap it up.  This is neither the time nor the place for flirting or asking Kurt out.  You have a job to do, and your co-workers would appreciate your pulling your own weight – especially given they had to cover for you this morning.  You're lucky I didn't write you up for that.”  Rebecca was glaring at the two of them over her shoulder.

The subtle changes in Blaine's demeanor would have been missed by all but his closest friends.  The warmth and sparkle in his eyes flickered out.  His jaw tensed.  And then, Kurt heard the change in his tone of voice, and knew that this was the persona Blaine wore at Dalton Academy.  This was “prep school” Blaine Anderson.

“Yes, ma'am.  Hummel and I were just deciding on a time for his next lesson.  I won't take more than two minutes, if that meets with your approval.” 

There was no sarcasm in his tone, no anger or embarrassment.  Just a matter-of-fact explanation of the purpose of their conversation and an official request for the time to do so.  Perhaps a stranger would have been impressed with the dapper politeness of the teen.  For everyone who worked with Blaine, who knew Blaine, it was a alarming change.

Nick froze.  As did the rest of the lifeguards and volunteers who were close enough to hear.  Watching his friend, Nick felt fear picking its way up his spine to nest in the back of his neck.  He hadn't seen this version of Blaine in close to three years.  Not since freshman year - before the trial.

Nick heard Scott and Jeff walk up next to him as they all looked between Blaine and Rebecca.  He wasn't going to let this happen.  With authority, Nick walked over to Blaine and Kurt.  “B – walk Kurt out.”

“I can't.  I have to do my job,” Blaine replied.

Moving to block Blaine's view of Rebecca, Nick repeated himself more forcefully.  “Walk. Kurt. Out.”  They stared each other down, having some sort of silent battle of wills, then finally, Blaine shrugged, turning back to Kurt, and motioned for him to lead the way out of the gate.

When the couple had cleared the second gate and walked around the corner, Nick turned slowly towards Rebecca.  “We need to talk.  Now.”  Quiet and firm, his tone brooked no room for argument.

Rebecca removed her sunglasses to peer down at Nick.  “You need to get ready for classes.”

Nick stared at Rebecca for several long moments before clucking his tongue against the roof of his mouth.  “Okay, Bec.  If that's how you want to play this.”  He strode purposefully towards the office where he calmly walked through the open door, pulling it shut behind him.

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They had just agreed that Kurt would come back later that afternoon so Blaine could teach him how to tread water, when Nick marched up, dressed in his street clothes.  “Need a ride home, Kurt?” he asked as if nothing was amiss.

Startled at their friend's unexpected appearance, both Blaine and Kurt looked at Nick like he'd grown a second head.  It took a moment for Kurt to find his voice.  “Yeah, technically.  Dad took my car away until school starts.  Why?” Kurt asked.

Jingling the keys in his hand, he offered nonchalantly, “Because I'm happy to drop you off on my way home.”

When Nick started towards the parking lot, Blaine grabbed his arm.  “What the hell, Nick?  What are you talking about? You have work,” he sputtered.

Nick shook his head.  “Nope,” he said, popping the P.  “I called Parks and Rec and resigned.  Effective immediately.”  Holding up his hands, Nick tried to get Blaine and Kurt to stop talking over each other.  “Hey!  Stop!  It was my decision.”

“Why?  Why would you do that, Nick?”  Kurt was so confused by his friend's actions.

Nick pushed his sunglasses to the top of his head so that he could look his friends in the eyes.  “Because Becca was out of line.  Because Blaine is closer to me than either of my brothers.  Because I asked to talk to my boss privately about my concerns and she refused.  Because what you two got in trouble for doing this past weekend has nothing to do with our work here – and apparently the only person who is unwilling to accept that is Rebecca.  I'm done.  I'm not going to work here and watch you slowly disappear into yourself again, Blaine.”  Voice shaky, Nick's anger and frustration at the situation came through in spades, although he never raised his voice.

Nick reached out to grasp Blaine's biceps.  “This is my choice, Blainers.  This isn't about you, this is about how you were treated.  She owes you a major apology and I'm not even sure that's enough.  I'm picking up my stuff and going home after I drop Kurt off.  I'll see you on Saturday when we move our stuff in at Dalton.”  Nick pulled his friend in for a tight hug. 

“And Blaine?  If things get too tense…call me.  You can come stay at our house.  My mom will come pick you up, so that Pete and Rebecca can't say anything.”  Nick stepped back from Blaine and shifted his duffle bag from one shoulder to the other.  Looking at Kurt, he asked, “Shall we?”

They'd maybe taken five steps when Jeff's voice called out, “Got room for three more?” 

Carefully moving around the parents and children making their way towards the side entrance to the pool, Jeff, Austin, and Jordan came to stand with the others.  Jordan explained, “Scott and Meghan are on the phone too.  I don't know how quickly the Rec department can find five replacements.  I do know that Rebecca isn't going to be able to hold classes with only two lifeguards.  Three if you want to stay Blaine.”

Blaine stared at the ground, emotionally overwhelmed at the show of support from his friends.  “Thank you.  I guess I need to go back and get my stuff.”

“Nah, gotcha covered, Anderson.”  Meghan was coming out the front of the pool office, carrying her things as well as Blaine's.  “Figured you didn't want to go back in.  Scott told them you weren't feeling well and had to go home.  The rest of us…well, we'll be collecting our final paychecks this Friday. ” Tilting her head to the side, she smiled.  “You know what? I'm kinda hungry.  Scottie? What say I buy you some waffles?”

Scott laughed.  “Like I'd ever pass up a chance for a free meal with a beautiful woman?  Let's go, pretty lady.”  Slinging his arm around Meghan, Scott walked with her out into the parking lot.

Jeff looked down at Jordan.  “They're not…”

“Together?”  She smiled at him.  “No.  Just friends… with a common love of breakfast foods.”

Satisfied that he hadn't missed out on a major piece of gossip, Jeff clapped his hands together once.  “So… what are the rest of us doing, today?”

Nick met his best friend's eyes.  “I don't know what's on your agenda.  I'll be packing my things and moving home to Westerville.”

Jeff's intake of breath was audible.  “Um…wow.  Okay.”

“Jeff.”

“No, I get it Nick,” Jeff offered quietly.  Needing an anchor, Jeff reached out and pulled Jordan into his arms, resting his chin on top her head.  He looked pointedly at Austin.  “I think we should go home, too, A.  It's not gonna be pleasant at the house if we stay.”

Looking at Nick, Austin asked, “Do you mind taking us back?”

“Of course not, Austin.  If it was just your brother, maybe.  God knows how difficult it is to be stuck in a car for an hour and a half with just him –” joked Nick, understanding that a little levity was needed to break some of the tension.

“Whatever, Duvall,” voiced Jeff with a roll of his eyes.  Jeff's arms tightened around Jordan as the realization dawned that leaving for Westerville meant he'd also be leaving his girlfriend.  “Jordan?”

She smiled up at him.  “Since my morning and afternoon are now, unexpectedly free, maybe I could borrow my sister's car and drive out to Westerville.  Maybe Tori and Kurt would like to come with?” she offered at Kurt.

Kurt looked hopeful.  “I'd need to ask my dad.  Honestly, I have no idea what he'll say.  But, if he says it's okay…and if Blaine's going too, then, yes, I'd love to catch a ride with you, Jordan.”

“So Warbler Pool Party, take two this afternoon at the Duvall's?” hinted Jeff at Nick.

Nick smirked.  “I'm sure Mom would be fine with that.  And I know she still has food to feed us.  And I know that Blaine still has a few things to teach Kurt that require a pool – so, let's go see if we can convince Mr. Hummel that our road trip to Westerville won't end with inappropriate shenanigans.”

Surrounded by his friends, Blaine offered his hand to Kurt, intertwining their fingers as everyone moved towards Nick's Honda.  Leaning close to Kurt, he whispered, “Nick's an expert in inappropriate shenanigans, so he really has no room to talk.  There was this one time, sophomore year when –”

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It was just after noon when Jordan pulled up to the Duvall's house in Westerville and parked under an enormous shade tree.  They'd all been surprised when Burt had agreed to allow Kurt to go back to Westerville, but once Nick and Blaine had explained privately what had gone down at the pool, and added that Kurt would be returning that evening, Burt had acquiesced. 

Mrs. Duvall met the two girls and Kurt at the door, smiling warmly at them all.  “Nick and the others are already outside.  It's good to see you all again, so soon.  Please help yourselves to the leftovers.  Really.  Otherwise, we'll be eating them the rest of the week and beyond,” she laughed.

It didn't take much time before all of them were sitting at one of the patio tables, eating and enjoying the time together.  Noticing that Austin wasn't around, Kurt asked where he'd gone.

Jeff swallowed a bite of macaroni salad.  “He was texting Owen on the way here.  I guess their club lacrosse team is having a conditioning session, so Austin went out to get all ‘hot and sweaty' with the boys.”

Shooting furtive glances at each one another, Nick, Blaine and Kurt tried to be nonchalant in front of the others.  Austin and Owen might be getting hot and sweaty, but all three of them doubted it was with their team.

Popping the last bit of a linguisa sausage into his mouth, Jeff chewed thoughtfully.  “How long do you think it's gonna take Austin to admit that he and Owen are…you know.”

Snatching up his glass of water, Blaine took his time drinking.  Carefully placing it down, he looked carefully at Jeff.  “I don't understand what you're asking.”

Jeff sighed.  “Look, I appreciate your loyalty to my brother and all…but Austin is my brother.  He talks in his sleep.  And someone, this weekend, gave him an impressive set of hickeys in places that are traditionally covered up by one's undergarments.  I'm not stupid.”  Toying with the food on his plate, Jeff frowned.

“I know that everyone comes to terms with who they are on their own time.”  He looked up at Kurt and smirked.  “See?  I do pay attention.  I like Owen.  I love my brother.  I just don't want him to feel like he can't be himself around me.  And I have a pretty good idea of what really went down here on Saturday – and the fact that three of you don't look surprised in the least, means I was right that he's talked to you.  So how long?”

Nick was the one who finally broke the silence.  Standing up and clearing away the used paper plates, he spoke.  “J – I won't break your brother's confidence.  Just like I've never told anyone the things that you and Blaine have asked me to keep in secret.  But I can tell you, we have Austin's back.”  He squeezed Jeff's shoulder before walking away with the trash.

Looking slightly less than satisfied with Nick's non-answer, Jeff asked Jordan to take a walk out to the gazebo with him so they could enjoy the hammock and talk about things.  They left the table, holding hands.

Blaine leaned back in his chair and pushed his sunglasses so they were resting on top of his head.  “Hummel,” he said in a voice lower than normal.

“Anderson,” Kurt replied, removing his own sunglasses and leaning forward, chin on his hand.

Tilting his head to the side, Blaine let a slow smile form on his lips.  “I do believe I owe you a lesson in treading water.  Care to join me in the pool?”  He asked teasingly.

Kurt's eyes drifted down Blaine as far as the table allowed and then back up.  “If it means you're talking your shirt off, I'm in,” he flirted.

“Done.”  Quickly stripping off his shirt, Blaine leaned forward and captured Kurt's lips in a kiss.

“God, you two are really too freakin' adorable.  Hurry up and go before I get a cavity from all your sweetness,” giggled Tori.  She tried to sound put out by the boys' behavior, but her laughter gave away the truth.  Curled up with her feet tucked under herself, Tori appeared to be trying to catch up on her sleep.

Walking up behind his girlfriend, Nick placed his hands on her shoulders, rubbing gently.  “What would you like to do, Tor?”  Bending forward he placed a soft kiss to her forehead and then an upside down kiss on her lips.”

With fatigue apparent in her voice, she answered, “Sleep with you.”

All three boys stilled, not quite believing they'd heard her correctly.

Tori took two or three more breaths before she snapped forward in her chair.  Flushing, she spun around to look at Nick.  “Oh my god, that's not what I meant.  I don't want to sleep with you.  Shit.  I mean, I like it when we…”  Stopped from digging an even deeper hole by Nick's gentle kiss, Tori could feel the heat in her cheeks. 

When he pulled away, she explained more calmly, “I'm exhausted.  Could we…just drag the cushions out from the patio chairs and take a nap together in the shade?”  She offered him a shy smile.

After they had gathered the cushions and made a nest with the pillows under the shady trees, Tori snuggled into Nick's arms, content.  Not bothering to open her eyes, she placed a kiss on his bare chest, before admitting, “I love you, Nick Duvall.  And in the interest of full disclosure – I am completely satisfied with all aspects of our relationship.”

Nick pulled his girlfriend closer, tucking her head under his chin so he could nuzzle into her hair.  “I know, babe.  And I love you, too.  Get some rest.  I'll be here when you wake up.”  It didn't take long before both of them were sleeping soundly.

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Blaine held Kurt's hand, walking the deeper water of the Duvall's pool, stopping when it hit him mid-chest and they were in shade left by the trees surrounding the property.  The shade alone seemed to drop the summer heat ten degrees, plus it meant he didn't have to squint at the beautiful man standing next to him. 

“I know I promised you a lesson in treading water,” Blaine started shyly.  “But I was wondering if we could cross something off my bucket list first?”  Running his thumb over the inside of Kurt's palm, Blaine pressed his lips together nervously.

Kurt could hardly believe that after all this time and everything they'd already done, that Blaine still became shy around him.  It was endearing, and reminded Kurt just how precious their friendship, and their love, truly was.  “Hey, look at me.”  Kurt tapped Blaine on the nose.  “Don't be shy.  We lose 100% of the opportunities we don't attempt.”

Seeing Blaine smile, he added, “I got that on a fortune cookie once.  What did you want to try, Anderson?”  Kurt stepped closer, and dropping his low voice even further, he observed, “We do have an audience – of sorts.  And after Saturday, I really don't want to do anything that might –”

Interrupting, Blaine shook his head firmly, “No! no it's not like that.  I just wanted to try…I want to kiss you – under the water.  That's all.  But I totally understand if that's something you're not comfortable with.”

Kurt circled Blaine's waist with his hands, allowing them to drift down until his fingers slipped into the waistband of his swimsuit.  Tilting his head to the side, he brushed his lips against Blaine's.  “How exactly do you propose we go about this?”

Blaine laughed nervously.  “I…I'm not sure.  It's not like I've done this before.  Maybe we kiss, and then we can both sit down together?  Or I could sit down and you could join me?”

“Let's try that.  You go down first.”

Blaine bit back an inappropriate comment and took a deep breath before allowing his feet to slip out from under him.  Staring up through the water, he waited with anticipation for Kurt to slowly sink beneath the water. 

Wrapping his legs around Blaine's waist, Kurt sat between the lifeguard's legs, facing him.  Blaine reached out towards him, pulling his head closer and connecting their mouths.

It was wet, and hot, and awkward – but was Blaine's favorite kiss yet.

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It had taken less than an hour to teach Kurt how to tread water – especially since Blaine was able to offer the incentive of kisses when Kurt met each of the goals Blaine set for him.  Eventually they too crashed out under the trees, napping next to Nick and Tori as the afternoon grew into evening. 

When it was time for Jordan to drive Tori and Kurt home, he was surprised to learn that Blaine had already decided to stay at the Duvalls rather than returning to Lima and Nana Sterling's house.  Blaine explained he felt a clean break was better than trying to awkwardly spend the last two weeks of the summer being made to feel guilty over a decision that, while wrong, wasn't one he regretted.

“We move into the dorms on Saturday anyway,” shrugged Blaine, as he walked Kurt to Jordan's car.  “Speaking of which…would you like to help?  We found out last Friday that we're getting a two bedroom suite, instead of just dorm rooms.  We'll have a kitchen, two bathrooms, a study room and a balcony,” he explained with excitement.

Kurt shook his head, amazed at the living arrangements offered by the private school.  “A suite?  Seriously?”

Blaine nodded.  “Yeah.  There's a lottery each year for the suites.  Seniors get priority.  So, I'm not sure which one of us got selected, but because we'd all put each other down as prospective roommates, we're together.  Austin so lucked out.  The only time a freshman or sophomore ends up in a suite is if he has an older brother to pull him in.”

Drawing Kurt into an embrace, Blaine held him close.  “Dalton has a welcome ceremony at 9:30am on Saturday.  The Warblers are performing.  Then we'll be moving our stuff in.  I'd love if you could come to watch us, and I know you have to ask your dad, and that it means you'll have to get up super early on a Saturday.  Will you at least consider it?”

“Of course, Blaine.  I'd love to come see you perform.  And to help you move your stuff in.  I'll talk to my dad.  Remember, he loves you – and he has a really hard time saying no when I really want something.”  Kurt gave Blaine one last goodbye kiss, before climbing in to the back of Jordan's car for the long drive back to Lima.

Early Saturday morning, Finn and Puck dropped Kurt off at Nick's house.  They'd decided to spend the day checking out the Ohio State University campus in nearby Columbus and had arranged to pick Kurt back up later that evening at Dalton.

In the Dalton Auditorium, Kurt sat with Mr. and Mrs. Duvall, only to be joined by Mr. and Mrs. Sterling and Owen.  Everyone was here to help with the move-in.  Even Tori and Jordan would be joining later.  The headmaster, an older gentleman, took the stage to welcome all the students, new and returning, and their families to the new school year.  He made quick introductions of the new faculty members and the student council.  Then, it was time.

“There are a great many traditions in which the boys of Dalton Academy take part.  One of the most popular student organizations is our a capella choir, The Warblers.  Please join me in welcoming them to the stage.”  The headmaster began the applause which quickly grew to nearly deafening proportions.  The boys lined up in formation while Blaine walked over and shook the headmaster's hand.  He took the microphone, smiling  at the audience.

“Hi!  I'm Blaine Anderson –” he was forced to stop speaking at the loud cheers and whistles that greeted him.  “Um, thanks guys.” He laughed to cover up his embarrassment.  “As I was saying, I'm Blaine Anderson.  I'm a senior, and this is my fourth year as a Warbler.  I'd like to encourage those of you in your first year here at Dalton to try out as many clubs and organizations and sports teams as you can.  We've got an amazing school and you'll find your niche somewhere.”

Finally spotting Kurt, he smiled widely at him.  “After the Labor Day, the Warblers will be holding open auditions for anyone interested in singing with us.  If you like what you see, or more importantly, what you hear, please consider joining us.  We are a competitive group and are planning on placing well enough to travel to the National show choir competition being held in Boston this year.  Thank you.”  Blaine took his place in the formation and the performance began.

Afterwards, Blaine met Kurt outside, hugging his boyfriend tight.  “What did you think?” he asked anxiously before pulling off the uncomfortably warm wool blazer. 

“You were amazing,” gushed Kurt.  Glancing towards Nick and Jeff, he added, “All of you.  I had no idea how…how good you guys are.  I loved it.”

Snaking his arm around Kurt's waist, Blaine pulled him towards the parking lot where the cars were still loaded with all the boxes and suitcases filled with Blaine, Austin, Jeff and Nick's stuff.  “I'm glad.  I'm glad you came and I'm glad you liked the performance.  I know you'll be busy with school and all, but I'll send you our performance schedule.  Hopefully you'll be able to come to a few.”

“I want your swim schedule too,” Kurt said in a normal voice, before dropping it so only Blaine could hear.  “Any sanctioned chance to see you in one of those tight, skimpy swimsuits, Anderson – I'm taking it.” 

Blaine kissed Kurt's cheek.  “Done.”  Pulling his white button down shirt away from his chest where it was beginning to stick, he commented “I can't wait to get to the suite so we can crank up the air conditioning and change.  The uniform doesn't suck as much in the winter when it's cold, but August and September are a real bear to get through,” explained Blaine.

Kurt placed his head on Blaine's shoulder as they walked up to the Duvall's mini-van.  “The prep school look…it really works for me, Blaine.  Really works for me.  Especially the tie.  You have no idea.” 

With everyone they had helping, the boys were able to unpack and settle in to their suite by the end of the afternoon.  They'd stopped for a lunch break, and Kurt had enjoyed getting to know Nick and Jeff's parents a little bit better.  Mrs. Duvall had bought new sheets and towels for both Nick and Blaine as a gift, and Mrs. Sterling had purchased pots and pans for the kitchen.  They had also paid for lunch and were offering to take everyone out to dinner as well.

Kurt glanced at Blaine trying to get a feel for what he wanted to do.  Seeing his slight shrug, Kurt made his excuse.  “Mrs. Duvall, thank you for the offer, but I think I'll just stay here.  I'm not sure when my step-brother is going to be done at OSU and picking me up.”

“That's alright, Kurt.  Maybe next time,” she said graciously.

Mrs. Sterling looked up from where she'd been speaking with Owen.  “Kurt?  I thought you and Blaine weren't supposed to be alone together,” she pointed out, not unkindly.

“It's okay, Mom,” said Austin.  “Owen and I will stay home.  We're not going to get to see each other until Labor Day, so…it's not a problem.  I mean…for us it's not a problem.  Is that okay with you?” he asked timidly.

She ruffled his hair affectionately.  “Of course.  I know you two have missed hanging out this summer.  Why don't you at least walk out with us so I can get my goodbye hug and kiss.”  Her eyes glistened as she held back the tears she felt at the thought of her baby starting high school.

Plans decided, the large group got up to leave.  Handshakes and hugs were given all around.  Last to leave, Jeff and Austin followed their parents and Jordan out to the parking lot.  Owen was sprawled out on the leather couch, eyes closed as the fatigue of the day finally seemed to hit him.  Kurt sat on the opposite side of the couch, while Blaine lay on the carpet, arm tossed over his eyes.  It was a fairly comfortable silence as they all just wanted to relax.

Clearing his throat, Owen started to speak.  “I…I've been waiting…waiting for the right time to say thank you.  Since the party…I wanted to say thank you, for not saying anything…about what you heard.  About it being me…and Austin.  And to apologize for…things.”

The couch creaked as Owen sat up, holding his hands between his knees.  “I'm not sure you know how much that meant to me,” Owen mumbled, staring at his hands.

Kurt and Blaine shared a look.  “We do,” they answered at the same time.  Kurt slid next to Owen, placing his hand on the other boy's knee and squeezing lightly.  “Owen, coming out…there's no right or wrong way.  Blaine and I…we've both had some really fucked up things done to us because we made the choice to not hide who we are.  We get it.  Please don't every think we're judging you – nothing could be further from the truth.”

Having sat up, Blaine moved so he was kneeling in front of Austin's boyfriend.  “Austin's our friend, Owen.  I've known him since he was 10.  The fact that he thinks you hung the stars speaks volumes to me as to the type of guy you must be.  But Kurt and I want you to know, that regardless of how things play out between the two of you, you are always welcome to talk to us about…being gay.”

Kurt picked up Blaine's thoughts.  “It isn't easy, Owen.  We've both felt lonely and scared and like we'd never be accepted for who we are.  So you're going to take our phone numbers and email addresses.  Then, when you start feeling bad, you can call us to talk.  We promise to be there for you, Owen.  Because we both wish someone had been there for us, back when we first came out.”

The front door to the suite swung open to reveal Austin Sterling.  He stared at his three friends, sitting just a little too close on the couch, and smirked.  Closing the door and locking it, he bounced forward, launching himself over the arm of the couch so he landed across Kurt and Owen's laps.  He reached a hand up, wrapping his fingers around the back of Owen's neck.  “Miss me?” he asked seductively.

Blaine burst out laughing as Owen flushed a deep red.  “Sorry.  Sorry.  I'm laughing near you, not at you.”  At his boyfriend's swift smack on his arm, Blaine admitted, “Okay.  I am laughing at you.  And near you.  That was priceless.”

Standing, Blaine offered a hand to Kurt to help him off of the couch.  Pointing a finger at Austin, he said, “Since I know your brother wouldn't have thought to tell you this, I am.  House rules, Sterling 5.0 and boyfriend.”  Blaine made sure to look both of them in the eye before ticking off the rules that had been handed down through the years by the Dalton boys.

“1) No sex while other people are home – even if they are asleep in a different room.  Break this rule and you will have to do everyone in the suite's chores two weeks; 2) No sex in anyone else's bed.  Break this rule and you lose your mattress – for the year; 3) No sex in the common areas of the suite.  Same punishment as rule one; 4) if you stupidly forget to lock the door while engaged in intimacies of the unclothed kind, you will complete the house chores of the person who walked through the door for one month.  5) This one is more of a guideline, not a rule, by the way.  If your guest is staying overnight, please inform your roommate ahead of time.  It's just polite.  Although, you do have an amazing roommate this year who will probably be most accommodating when it comes to…spur of the moment happenings.”  Blaine winked at Austin, who was also flushed from embarrassment by Blaine's frankness. 

“Of course, he might ask for that same understanding occasionally, as well,” he shrugged.  “And finally…when Nick and Jeff have the girls over…and they will have them over over…well, you know the consequences of getting caught with a girl in your room past hours…since we're in a suite, they'd apply those same consequences to all of us.  All of us who were home at the time.  They'll let you know so you have the option to spend the night somewhere else.  No judgment if you choose to do that.” 

Cocking his head to the side, Blaine made a thoughtful face.  “You know, it's probably one of the few times it works out better to be gay.  Kurt and Owen will be able to spend the night and they'll never be questioned for it.” 

Realizing he'd made a pretty big assumption and maybe revealed too much of what Austin had shared with him at the party, Blaine backtracked.  “Not that Owen will be spending the night or that you're doing anything.  Just…if you are, well, now you know everyone's…expectations.”

Blaine couldn't help but grin at the couple on the couch.  Owen still had a lap full of Austin, who was gazing up at him, playing with his hair.  Nudging Kurt towards the hallway where the two bedrooms were, he stage-coughed.  “Since you're the youngest member of the suite, it is your duty to order pizza.  I'll pay when it gets here.  Kurt and I will be in our room…communicating –”

“Communicating?  Riiiiight,” laughed Austin.

“Yes, keeping up choral relations,” answered Blaine smugly.  “We'll be playing music fairly loudly as part of our…communications, so you'll have to stay out here and listen for the delivery guy.  The cable TV hasn't been turned on yet, so you'll have to find some other way of entertaining yourselves.  There are some UNO cards and a Monopoly game in the coat closet, for example…” he teased, pulling Kurt after him.

Dropping his head towards Austin's pink lips, Owen growled out, “Thanks.  I think we'll manage.”

Kurt caught a glimpse of their kiss before Blaine basically manhandled him into his room, shutting and locking the door.  Rolling his eyes at his boyfriend, whose bouncing would give Tigger a run for his money, Kurt went over to put some music on the iPod dock.  Satisfied with the playlist, Kurt turned back to Blaine and shook his finger.

“Aren't you concerned about those rules you just listed?”  Kurt reached for the bottom of his shirt and swiftly yanked it off.  A surge of confidence flowed through him at Blaine's sharp whimper.

Pulling off his own shirt, Blaine laid back on his twin bed, beckoning Kurt to join him.  Once Kurt had straddled his lap, Blaine shook his head.  “No.  I've learned some things about rooming with people in the three years I've boarded.  Things I've never personally been able to apply until now.  Things like, if your roommate is too busy getting sexy with his boyfriend in the other room, he can't walk in on you getting sexy with yours.  And if the music is loud enough…”

Kurt dropped his head down to brush his lips slowly across Blaine's mouth.  “How long until the pizza gets here?” he groaned softly.

“Forty minutes from when Austin makes the call.”  Blaine had pulled back just enough to answer before returning to their slow kiss.

“And when are Jeff and Jordan due back?”

“Couple hours.”

Kurt leaned in, pressing his lips to the space below Blaine's ear that he knew made his boyfriend melt.  “Seems to me, Anderson, you should text Austin to hurry up and order that pizza.  At least then, he'll know how long he and Owen can…do what they're doing.  Without worrying about someone showing up.”  Kurt lightly bit the spot on Blaine's neck, then flicked his tongue across the bruised skin.

“Fuck, Kurt.”  Blaine didn't try to contain the moan that bubbled out of him.  “You're so smart.  That's such a turn on.”

Kurt shook as he tried to hold his laughter.  “Text him, Blaine.  Then I can continue to turn you on…with my intelligence.  Or…with other methods,” he whispered into Blaine's ear.

Blaine lunged for his cell phone.

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A loud rapping on the door separated them for the first time since Blaine had sent Austin the text message.  They'd kept it controlled.  Oh, heated for sure.  But definitely more controlled.  It would have made catching their breath easier had it not been Pete Sterling's police sergeant voice commanding authoritatively, “Blaine Devon Anderson, outside.  Now!”

“Fuck me,” came Blaine's immediate response, low enough so only Kurt could hear.  “Be right there!” He called over the music, rolling off of Kurt, the bed and onto his feet.  Kurt shook his head in annoyance.  This wasn't going to be pretty.

Picking up their t-shirts, Kurt made to throw Blaine his, when Blaine shook his head firmly and motioned for Kurt to drop them back on the floor.  “Nuh uh.  We haven't done anything wrong, and I'm not going to be made to feel guilty over this.  Not here.  Not at Dalton.”

Grasping Kurt's hand in his, Blaine opened the door and brushed past Pete, towing Kurt behind.  When he turned the corner he wasn't surprised to see Rebecca standing in the center of the room.  He was surprised to find Austin alone on the couch, hair completely messed, and lips swollen.  Looking into Austin's eyes, he silently asked where Owen had gone, only to receive a blank stare back. 

Blaine knew from history that sometimes the best offensive strike was to allow your opponent the first move.  Then you knew what their plan was, and could adjust your counterattack accordingly.  In keeping with this, he guided Kurt to sit next to Austin, sat on the arm of the couch and waited.

“Well?” asked Pete, clearly expecting Blaine to respond with an apology or confession or denial. 

Blaine fought the instinct to cross his arms defensively and continued to gaze at Pete.

“So you have nothing to say for yourself?”  Pete turned his piercing blue eyes towards Kurt.  “What about you, Kurt? Does your father know you're here?  With Blaine?”

Kurt raised an eyebrow, clearly showing his annoyance at being interrogated.  “Yes, Sergeant Sterling.  My father knows I am here.”

“Alone?  With Blaine.  I'm pretty sure he doesn't know that.”  Rebecca's voice was laced with disdain. 

Kurt barely glanced her way before looking back at Pete.  “He knows I'm here.  With Blaine.  And Austin.  Which, by definition, means we weren't alone,” he sassed back.

“He certainly wasn't in the bedroom with you two while you were doing…whatever you were doing.”  Rebecca was flustered at the boys' behavior, pushing back instead of admitting they were in the wrong.

Feeling the nervous energy of Austin pour over him, Kurt reached over and placed his hand on Austin's wrist, lending his support with his touch.  Shooting Rebecca his bitchiest look, he didn't hide his contempt.  “No- Rebecca, he wasn't.  I'm not comfortable with threesomes and I'm not Austin's type.”

Pete took a step forward towards Kurt.  “That was out-of-line, Kurt,” he snapped.

Kurt stood, and stepped towards Pete.  Hands on his hips, he glared at the officer.  “No, Sergeant.  You and Ms. Michaels are out of line.  What I do with my boyfriend is none of your concern.  Your opinions, sarcastic or otherwise, are unwanted and unwelcome.”

Pointing at Austin, Pete said heatedly, “Austin's my brother.  So what happens around him is my business.  And whether it comes from me, or my parents, the message is going to be the same: we don't condone this kind of behavior around Austin, or anyone's Austin's age.”

Kurt reeled back as if he'd been physically slapped by Pete. 

Blaine's head snapped towards Austin, watching as all of the color left the boy's face.  This entire situation was completely fucked.  “Get. Out.” He demanded.  Blaine rose and stomped to the door, flinging it open and gesturing out into the hallway.  “You need to leave now.  Both of you.”

Pete shook his head, “No way.  I'm not leaving –” he began before being interrupted by Blaine.

“I said: Get Out! Now!”  Blaine's voice was growing louder and several of the surrounding doors had opened as the Dalton boys curiosity got the best of them.

Looking out the door, Blaine found Trent among the heads in the hallway.  “Trent, call security.”

Meeting Pete's blistering gaze, Blaine realized that he wasn't going to lose this battle.  He simply wasn't, because he refused to give Pete or Rebecca that power.  “You need to get the hell out of my suite.  I didn't ask you here.  You show up unexpected and then spew homophobic bullshit at me, my boyfriend, and your younger brother who you're so allegedly worried about.  That's about as fucked up as it comes, Pete.”

As soon as Blaine had said the word ‘homophobic', Pete's face changed into one of confusion.  “Blaine?  I don't –”

“I'm not done.  Sorry for taking a breath and giving you the impression I was done talking.  It was bad enough when your fiancée decided to chew me out in public at work, and it doing so, out me – to everyone sitting in the bleachers –”  Blaine stared hard at Rebecca.  “Your talk about how you wanted to support me and Kurt, about how we should be careful so that no one would complain about our ‘gayness' – it was all bullshit,” he spat.

“Blaine I didn't do that,” Rebecca protested.

Austin looked up from the couch where he had his arms wrapped around his knees.  “Yes, you did,” he stated, startling everyone since they'd almost forgotten he was in the room.  He looked at Rebecca.  “You told Blaine ‘This is neither the time nor the place for flirting or asking Kurt out.'”  Austin did a fair impression of his future sister-in-law.  “Loud.  And the morning classes were all there.”  He stood up and walked around the far-side of the couch to avoid Rebecca and visible flinched away from Pete as he moved passed him.

“Blaine's right.  You need to go.  And Pete?  Mom and Dad taught us that everyone deserves to be treated with respect.  Blaine and Kurt are my friends, Pete.  If you can't respect them – if you can't accept them for who they are – then…then I can't be around you,” he managed to choke out before speeding away to Nick and Jeff's room, carefully shutting the door behind him and locking it.

The pizza delivery guy picked that exact moment to show up with three large pizzas for “Owen”.

Blaine reached into his pocket for his wallet, paying for the pizzas and handing the off to Kurt.  He didn't budge from his spot in the open doorway, staring pointedly at Pete.  He heard Trent's voice directing security towards their room.  Once the two guards entered, the fight seemed to go completely out of Pete.  “Sorry, gentlemen.  We were just on our way out,” he assured them, taking Rebecca's arm and gently leading her to the door.

Blaine refused to look at either one of them in the face as they passed.

“Blainers?  Not that it matters at this point, but what I said had nothing to do with your sexuality.  I don't have any problems with the fact that you're gay.  I just meant that I didn't think that Mom and Dad would want Austin around two people engaged in sexual activities,” Pete explained softly.

“We were kissing, not having sex.  Kissing – something Austin sees all the time between you and Becca, Jeff and Jordan, Nick and Tori.  But you're right.  It doesn't matter, because it doesn't change things.  Words have meaning.  You can't just throw them out there without thinking about their impact.”

Rebecca was close to tears.  “I'm sorry, Blaine.”

Closing the door, Blaine snapped the lock into place.

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When the knock on the front door had come, Austin had slid off of Owen to go answer it, surprised that the pizza delivery had made it to the dorms so quickly.  His surprise had turned to panic when looking through the peep hole, he recognized his brother, Pete.

“What?” rasped Owen, voice still filled with desire.

Austin took a breath, trying to calm his nerves before striding over to Owen.  “It's Pete,” he whispered.

“Shit.  Austin, how the hell are we gonna explain?”  Owen gestured frantically towards the hickeys Austin had left down the side of his neck and chest.

“I know.”  Austin spun his boyfriend around and pointed to the hallway, “Go hide in Jeff's room.”

Owen had cupped Austin's face lovingly, placing a gentle kiss on his lips before running down the hall, pulling the door shut after him.

When Austin had finally left the tension filled front room, he went to find Owen.  Pulling open the closet door, he found Owen, sitting on the floor, arms wrapped around himself.  Austin knew that sometimes days were so absurd that your only choices were to either laugh, or cry.  He'd had enough of crying for quite some time, so Austin chose to laugh instead.

Giggling, he sat down next to Owen, picking up his hand to play with his fingers.  “Owe…isn't this a bit of a cliché?  You and me, in the closet.”  He made a show of moving the clothing around, “Are there any skeletons in the back?”

That last comment had its intended effect.  Owen's mouth turned up at the sides.  “God, A.  It's your brother's closet.  I can only imagine,” he said gravely.

They sat silently, hands interlinked, Owen's head resting on Austin's shoulder.  Austin moved his head, so he could place a soft kiss on Owen's forehead.  “I meant what I said.”

“And said what I meant.  An elephant's faithful, 100%,” Owen whispered back the words to a Dr. Suess book that Austin had given him as a birthday present a year ago.

“That too,” murmured Austin.  “I'm willing to do this with you.  At whatever pace you want to take.  If it means sitting in the closet with you, or standing outside in the sun.”

Shifting slightly, Owen looked deep into Austin's eyes.  “Thank you.”

“Anytime, Horton.”  Austin moved a bit so he could kiss Owen's mouth.  “Do you remember any rules about making out in a closet?  Cause I don't, and I really would like to kiss you now.”

Shaking his head, Owen groaned.  “No. No rules.  I was paying attention, I swear.”

Not much later there was a light knock on the door, followed by Kurt's soft voice.  “Pizza's here.”

Owen stood up slowly, offering his hand to Austin to help him stand.  “Coming!” he called out.

“That's what HE said,” answered both voices from the other side of the door.

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Kurt stood with Nick, Jeff, and Blaine on the far side of the Dalton pool, staring into the deep end.  Ten weeks of lessons boiled down to this.  Just over 24 hours from now, Kurt would be standing on the deck of McKinley's pool, ready to take his official proficiency test.

It was late afternoon, and all students who'd been here today to beat the heat had left. 

Ten weeks ago Kurt had walked into a pool office with his dad, petrified of being near any water deeper than a puddle.  Today, in the blistering heat of the August afternoon, Kurt was confident in his ability to swim.  No more panic attacks.  No more excuses as to why he couldn't come to a swim party or the water park.  All because of the patience and care of a curly-haired lifeguard and his two best friends.

Sniffling, Kurt swiped the back of his hand across his nose.  A little gross, but he'd be in the water in just a moment.  Looking over at the lifeguards, dressed in t-shirts and shorts, Kurt smiled.  Not only had he learned to swim, he'd also made three amazing friends.  Well, more than that actually, as he also included Austin, Jordan and Tori in those numbers.  “Thank you,” he rasped, voice choked with emotion.

“Hey, Kurt, what's wrong?” asked Blaine.

Kurt shook his head before walking three steps and throwing his arms around Blaine, unconcerned about who would see them.  Holding on to Blaine as tight as he could, Kurt met both Jeff and Nick's eyes.  “Just thank you.  The three of you have no idea what this means to me.  I couldn't be here without you.”  Kurt managed to hold back the tears he could feel threatening to break.

Not hesitating for a moment, Nick wrapped his arms around Blaine and Kurt.  “You're welcome, Kurt.  Thanks for bringing the spark back to our Blainers here.  You're going to kick ass at your test tomorrow.  We all know it.”

Jeff joined the trio content, for once, to be silent.

They stood there together as Kurt gathered his strength.  “Okay, guys.  Let's do this,” he said quietly.  As Nick and Jeff stepped back, Kurt leaned forward to brush a quick kiss on Blaine's lips.  “Love you.  Thank you.”

Blaine held his gaze.  “Love you more.  You can do this,” he replied.

Kurt smirked, reaching out to run his index finger from Blaine's collar bone to the waistband of his swim suit.  “That's what he said,” he teased.  He turned and willingly jumped in the deep end with both feet and began to swim towards his future.

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Blaine sat on the wooden bench in the locker room, waiting nervously for Kurt to finish changing.  Still under some of the restrictions of their punishment, he'd offered to drive home with Kurt so he could have dinner with the Hummels.  Burt had agreed, as long as Kurt called him when they left Westerville so he would know when to expect them.

Staring at his hands, deep in thought, he didn't hear Kurt walk up.  He did, however, notice the shoes.  Glancing up, he grinned at Kurt.  “You did good, babe.  I'm proud of you.”  It made him feel good to see Kurt smile shyly, still learning how to be proud of his accomplishments.  Standing, he offered his hand to Kurt, pulling the other boy towards the end of the row of lockers.

“Blaine?” Expecting his boyfriend to lead them out of the locker room, Kurt was confused when they were walking farther back into the room.

“Sshhh,” said Blaine distractedly.  “Trust me.”

“Always,” Kurt immediately.

When Blaine reached the last row of lockers, and had confirmed that they were the only two people in the locker room, he wrapped his arm around Kurt's waist, tugging him tight against his body.  Brushing his lips against Kurt's, he backed them into the lockers, trapping Kurt's body between the cold metal and his warm body.  “I've been wanting to do this for a while,” he whispered. 

They lost themselves in the soft slide of lips and tongues, for several minutes.  Slow and heated, it was more about expressing love than rushing over a cliff of passion.  It was the sound of the door opening that drew them apart.  Foreheads pressed together, they strained to listen for approaching footsteps.  Nothing.

“Okay, Blainers, I know you're still in here,” came Nick's raised voice, startling them both.  “We're leaving now, and I was asked to remind you that you've a dinner you need to get to.  Kurt?  Good luck tomorrow.  Let us know how you do.  And guys?  The locker room?  Really?”

Blaine pressed his lips together tightly, trying to hold back the laughter bubbling up inside him.  Kurt shook his head, calling out, “Thanks, Nick.”

“Be safe!” he tossed back, before walking out.

Capturing Kurt's lips once more, Blaine savored the feeling of being able to kiss his boyfriend.  “Come on, handsome.  We need to go before we get into more trouble.  And, I need to ask you something.”  Taking Kurt's hand, he led them out into the summer evening.

“What's on your mind, Anderson?” asked a curious Kurt.

Blaine smiled shyly at Kurt as they walked along the sidewalk towards the Hummel residence.  “Do you have plans for Labor Day weekend?”

Kurt shook his head in the negative.  “No.  I mean, I'm sure one of my friends will throw a barbeque or something, but I haven't made any commitments.  Why?”

Blaine took a deep breath, trying to calm his nerves.  Knowing that Kurt was going to agree to his plans didn't seem to make asking any easier.  “I want to take you out.  Officially.  As your boyfriend.  I'm going to talk to your dad about my plans to get his permission.  If he says it's okay, then you'll be spending the night at Dalton.  I just wanted to warn you so you could keep your calendar clear.”

Kurt placed his hand on Blaine's arm, slowing them down.  “How clear?”

“Ideally?” Blaine commented before resuming their pace.  “I'd come down Friday night, have dinner with you guys, spend the night at Jordan's and then come steal you away Saturday morning for the rest of the weekend, bring you home on Monday by dinner.”  He stopped again, looking at Kurt with apprehension. “I mean, if your dad says it's okay and you agree to it,” Blaine added.

Kurt grinned with excitement.  “Sounds epic.  I'm looking forward to it already,” he said.  “You'll need to give me some hints so I know what kinds of clothes to pack.”  His mind was racing at the possibilities.  What pajamas would he bring?  Would it be warm or cold?  Would they be swimming at some point?

Blaine bumped Kurt's shoulder, winking at him.  “Our diving team's motto is ‘Go Big or Go Home.'  I thought it was good advice here, too,” he explained with a laugh.

This time, Kurt did stop their walk, turning to face Blaine, his expression thoughtful.  “Blaine?  You know that spending time with you is enough, right?  I mean, I truly appreciate the effort you're putting in to planning the perfect first date.  And I know it's going to be fabulous.  But you do know that it's you that makes it fabulous.  We could sit on the couch watching movies all weekend and I'd be over the moon because I'd be there with you.”

“God, Hummel,” Blaine growled out.  “When you say stuff like that, it just makes me want to kiss you.  Hard.”  Blaine sighed loudly, frustrated that most of Ohio wasn't safe enough for him to do just that.  “I know, Kurt.  But you deserve this.  We deserve this.  And I will save your suggestion for a later date…sounds like a perfect winter time activity, if we throw in blankets and hot chocolate.  Maybe a fire, too?”

Kurt blushed at the images that filled his head.  “Yeah.  Let's do that.  Come on, Anderson, we really need to book it to my house.  The sooner we get there, the sooner you can ask my dad.  And if we offer to do the dishes together, I might even let you sneak a few kisses from me.”

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Dinner was delicious – a new recipe Carole had wanted to try out using her slow cooker.

It was at least forty minutes since Blaine and Kurt had offered to do the dishes.  Dishes that consisted of one crock pot, plates, cups and utensils.

Watching television in the family room, Burt didn't even attempt to keep the smile from his face. 

He'd told Blaine he'd have to give serious consideration to his request for Kurt to spend two nights at Dalton.  And just as soon as they stopped kissing and came out to join him, Burt was going to tell them his answer was yes.

It was another twenty minutes before they got their answer.