…New Years Eve-Morning…

“Oh come on Rach, It's New Year's Eve, what else are you gonna do?”

Kurt smiled as Rachel laughed down the line, he tucked his knees up further under the fleecy blanket, his bare toes curling, trying to find warmth, and curled his free hand tighter around his mug of coffee that sat on his lap in his more than comfy position on the black leather sofa.

Blaine, not long beforehand had managed to pull himself away from Kurt's morning sated and playful grasping hands and chasing lips so that he could get up and go run some errands, check on preparations downstairs, and actually had a very exciting important meeting to attend that Kurt couldn't wait to hear about when he returned. Kurt had then literally just rolled out of bed, and straight onto the couch with his phone, picking up the fresh mug that Blaine had made and left for him, all bed head and sweat pants and t-shirt crumpled.

He pulled the phone back from his ear slightly when she started screeching playfully back at him.

“Oh you did not just use my own words against me Kurt Hummel-” Kurt smirked at the playful sass in her tone and offered some of his own.

“I just cannot believe that you're NOT coming to The Stage tonight-”

Tonight The Stage was celebrating the famous occasion like they had the previous year and much like any other public eating and drinking establishment, with crowds of people, friends, families and strangers alike all dressed up in their evening best, and of course supplied with alcohol. Only this year was different, this year there would be live music, entertainment, Blaine had hired an actor-come-comedian to host the evening, he was an extra who Rachel had recommended from her show, with a likeable personality and a memorable face, this year he wasn't attending as a hopeless tag-along, only there to keep his friend happy.

Kurt needed Rachel tonight, his wingman or woman, he was excited to recreate that spark like last year, that atmosphere, but he knew that tonight would be even more special than last year, and having Rachel there again meant a lot to him, after all, though he didn't like to her inflate her ego she was the reason, the person who set the whole thing in motion when it came to he and Blaine, on this day last year, it was only  right that she is present this time around, he knew that she wouldn't want to miss it.

“Oh please, get over yourself Kurt, I was just kidding, you know that there's nowhere else I'd rather be,” He smiled rolling his eyes at his dramatic friend, always wanting to make a fuss of some sort.

“So last night was actually my last show in my current role, which of course makes me free tonight, and in the new year I start rehearsing as leading lady-” They both started screeching down the line, Kurt could hear the frantic quiver in Rachel's voice as she was obviously jumping up and down in excitement wherever she was, if it wasn't for his lazy chilled position and the coffee in his hand he would have joined her, even though they had already celebrated Rachel's promotion more than enough times since the first announcement a couple of weeks ago.

Kurt could not be more happier for his friend, even though her dream had been unfolded and building for a while now, she was finally leading on a Broadway stage, and with it maybe something close to a possible relationship. She was remaining very tight lipped and calm about it at the moment, but still had told Kurt about the new stage manager who had started work at her theater about a month ago. She described him to be dark and handsome, the usual, but very reserved, friendly and polite, but he still oozed that star appeal, only a nicer type that Rachel fell for even though he wasn't directly in the lime light.

Kurt was pleased that she hadn't fallen into the hands of a red carpet diva, who would no doubt bring her and her career down, she'd mentioned that they'd been out a few times, quiet dinners and movies, and that she really enjoyed his company, she felt relaxed and unpressured at the easy, slow pace they were taking. She wasn't ready to label anything with him yet, but Kurt knew that this was something, that he was someone, that could finally be it for her, the next, a new step.

Nothing or nobody could ever replace what she had, what she had lost, he and Rachel wouldn't want anybody too, Kurt would never want another brother of any kind like him, there was only one of his kind. However Kurt felt like this guy was as close as needed, that he could help continue the love that Rachel had on pause, he could bring it out and pick up the pieces and help put them back into place, a new place, where she could remember her old love and finally savour a new one.

Kurt hoped that he could meet him tonight at The Stage, that she would bring him unexpectedly, but he was building up his great, supportive friend points as usual and keeping his lips sealed, waiting for her to make the first move, with a silent, hopeful promise.

The excited wailing died down and Rachel giggled breathlessly into the phone, “God Kurt, I'm so happy right now, we're both so happy at the same time, it's amazing, everything is just so, so-” Kurt laughed, a short snort into his coffee mug.

“Yeah I know sweetie, weird huh?” He teased and shook his head, it was true though, it seemed like something good only ever happened to one or the other, but now they were both flying high and living out their fantasies, Blaine too.

The night after Kurt and Isabelle's ‘talk', Kurt had sat at his desk in the hang out room, Blaine hovering behind him in the background, trying to busy himself dusting the bookshelf or something else pathetic when really he was obviously providing some silent moral support, with his cell phone in one hand and the little white business card in the other, both trembling, Kurt made a call, the call.

The week after Halloween on one cold, grey morning Kurt found himself sitting in a small coffee shop, the same one where Blaine had taken him on their first date, he'd chosen the place specifically to keep himself calm and grounded, somewhere familiar and close. The talent scout, the same guy who had given him the dangerously hopeful card, bought him an non-fat latte and a Banoffee muffin, and they talked. They discussed why he was at The Stage that night, why he had given Kurt the card, they discussed what Kurt would like out of their meeting, what Kurt could expect, what would be expected of him in return, it was pleasantly informal and Kurt warmed up, allowed himself to open up to the prospects ahead with each passing minute and sip of creamy goodness. Kurt left the shop with a blush on his cheeks and the biggest, toothiest of smiles, where he was met on the street corner by Blaine with his wide, gorgeous and hopeful eyes and grin and an enthusiastically big bunch of Lavender and pale yellow Iris's.

A couple of days after that Kurt sat hand in hand with Blaine behind a large black desk in a modern looking office on the Thirty-Third floor of a Downtown building, Kurt insisted that Blaine came with him, he couldn't bare to sit there alone. The agent sitting before them, the agent responsible for sending out the talent scouts, was a big man with light brown thinning hair, his suit was maybe a size too small but his eyes were bright and big full of knowledge and wisdom, inviting and his smile screamed sincerity and ‘in it for the pleasure not the business', he was a classic old timer, he knew what he was talking about, and he preferred working with new wide eyed hopefuls, rather than old veterans who thought they were better than everyone else.

An event was discussed, an annual event due to unfold in the upcoming New Year, that usually takes place in a voted-for, chosen old prestigious building somewhere in the city, a building that was still to be decided on.

The event was a Gala, a fundraiser to raise awareness and build popularity about the Arts, the love and need for Musical Theater, and a small segment dedicated to musicians of all kinds, composers and writers. Big names were mentioned who previously had attended and performed over the years, actors and singers, old and new and well known and experienced or not so much had all played a part in the Gala of some sort.

Kurt was asked to perform a number, a song which would be most likely a Broadway favourite but not yet chosen and a routine to be learnt and rehearsed with back up singers and dancers and the choreographer and production staff in charge at a later date, he was asked to represent the upcoming and fresh faces of musical theater category of the evening.

That was all that had been spoken of and asked of him for now, until the next arranged meeting to discuss dates and times, rehearsals and introductions. That was all that was enough, simple recognition teetering towards accomplishment.

Kurt had called Isabelle right away and after the initial excited screeching down the line, as had been previously mentioned she told Kurt to take whatever time needed around the time of the event and that he only works when and where he can, it was time for Elliott to take some lime light in that place now, Kurt knew he deserved it, he thanked his lucky stars everyday for working with such a fabulous team and being able to call them friends, best friends.

Kurt was worried for a while, when all of this came about, when Kurt bravely stepped back into the world of spotlights that he would simply be riding on coattails, tagging along with whatever was offered, for example somebody like Rachel. He didn't want or expect or need someone like her to put in a good word for him, and to be fair and to give her the respect that she deserves, she hadn't. Rachel knows maybe better than anybody how headstrong and proud Kurt is, how much he would have hated to ride along on her journey and trying to take from it something of his own. Now Kurt has his own ride and he is the driver and if there is anybody who he wishes to share it with at all, it is the man who has held his hand throughout, not letting go, always pushing and encouraging.

Kurt left the building with crystal clear tears welling in his eyes, a contract to browse over clutched tightly in his right hand and Blaine practically draped over the left side of his body, giggling and ecstatic, loud and proud, his future, big and bright clearly before his eyes and at his very side, always, something or rather someone who would forever remain unchanging at his side. 

Rachel was also in the middle of looking for a place of her own to buy and live in, somewhere closer to the theater, her roommate was now fully healed and against better judgement was heading off around the world again with some sort of dance exhibition that she just could not pass up, and so decided to just sell the apartment.

Although all they would have left from the place would be delicate and fond memories of when they first moved in, when Blaine came back after he and Kurt's string of first dates, when Rachel and Blaine had their impromptu movie night when Kurt was held up at the office, and many more. Rachel was honestly excited about it, really excited, yes it would be further away from Kurt but not that far and the thought of having her own place to call her own, the achievement and pride that rode on it, and of course the fact that Kurt could take chief role in interior design and redecorating, settled deep and happy within her.

“Ok Kurt, honey I gotta go, I'll see ya tonight though, can't wait, byeee, love you-” And within a beat the line went dead, leaving Kurt laughing into the silence, smiling happily looking down into his almost empty cold coffee mug and then up and around his living room.

God, his living room, his apartment with Blaine, their home together, it was so strange yet so amazing to think about, that One year ago tonight he had met the man that he shares this wonderful place, this wonderful life with, the man he wants to share forever with. His stomach coiled and stirred with the very thought, with what this night meant, but tonight could hold a whole new meaning entirely, he dares not think about that just yet and pushes it to one side for now, willing his heart rate to return to normal, he has all day to panic and decide if tonight will be the night he loses all inhibitions and takes the biggest chance yet.

One year ago tonight he took a chance, and it's been almost one whole year since that chance paid off, and he and that same chance had made things official, after some deliberating on the date that is. Goodness, one whole year, where does the time fly, he thinks back over the summer, the time spent soaking up rays in the park on lazy mornings and quiet afternoons, the way Blaine's already bronzed skin would glow under the blue sky and how his hands felt all full of lotion as he rubbed them into his own freckled pale shoulders.

He remembers the birthday celebrations and gifts they shared together, finally having somebody who wasn't his dad or any relative or a girl, to spend the day with and the sentimental value that rides on it. How on Kurt's birthday Blaine triumphantly cheered at the ‘technical' only Nine year difference, only a couple months later on his own birthday have Kurt tease him about the short lived celebration and then placate him with deepening birthday kisses in the dark after he'd blown all of his Thirty-Six candles out on his cake which Kurt presented to him after midnight alone in their kitchen with a wicked grin.     

He looked around the walls of the room, the pictures that hang in frames, the ones sitting on the mantle, the little decorative touches and differences that he has made since moving in, standing out proudly, they scream domesticity and togetherness, of love and home. He remembers the first time that Blaine had brought him here, the first night they slept together and the declaration afterwards, the words that proved that their relationship was headed a lot further than either of them could have ever hoped or dreamed for, he remembers liking the apartment then but the feeling of warmth and joy was missing. Now everywhere he looks, there are added touches, added memories, constant reminders, new and old of what they have made and done together, the amusing memorable shopping trip memories, playful squabbles in the fabric aisle over spare cushion covers and bath mats. He preens at the fact that he has helped make it this way, mould the already beautiful living space into a shared one with love and laughter.

Blaine adorably still keeps mementos from wherever they go, whatever they do together even after all of this time, it had become a game, a contest, of who can bring home the most cheesiest romantic items to display proudly on the coffee table, or mantle, or bookshelf, they were even starting to filter through to the kitchen, bedroom, hang out room, everywhere.

The small significant changes all around the apartment are heart warming, stomach fluttering details that Kurt can't help but grin at each time he takes the time to think about it, even if it just small or an inward smile, it's still there, but there things that haven't changed, between them or around them.

Blaine still loves and worships Kurt's neck the way he did that very first time his lips connected with the pale, smooth skin, the crook between his jaw line and collarbone is still, will always be home to Blaine, where he breathes him in first thing on a morning and last thing at night. Marking him gently and subtly without making it too obvious these days, he is in his mid-Thirties after all, though when they first got together Kurt's scarf collection became a bit bigger and the thin silky fabric he was used to wearing became a little wider after those days when Blaine got a bit too excited.

Blaine's reactions to Kurt haven't changed much either, even after over the almost year they've been together, if anything they've greatened, like he still isn't used to Kurt being there, being his, and Kurt still gets those tickly butterflies upon noticing. Blaine still looks at him all sleepy eyed in the morning like he's been sent from heaven himself, he watches hawkeyed through the open en-suite doorway from his perch on the bed when he's tying his shoe laces, when Kurt bends over the wash basin in the bathroom fiddling with his hair wearing nothing but his navy Armani boxer-briefs. Blaine introduces him to new people with a firm hand on his back or curved around his hip, a clear statement, he gages his mood and what he's thinking with just a look, knows which drink to make him after work, knows how far too push and pull with out edging onto irritation when Kurt's feeling particularly stubborn.

Blaine still looks up at him with almost closed eyes, liquid dark sometimes rolling backwards, his teeth biting his own bottom lip when he's spread out gloriously naked on the sofa after Kurt has somehow managed to get him there in that state without even consciously realising it.

He huffs out short uneven breaths, and Kurt thinks it's the most sexiest sound he'll ever hear, save for the other ridiculously sexy sounds that falls from Blaine lips at other feverish times. His nose teasingly skims up and down the juncture of Blaine's thigh, tickling against the short course hairs, offering quick kitten licks to the soft meaty flesh, nibbling at his small tattoo. He bats Blaine's hands away and pins them down at his sides as he tries to rub them down his own abdomen reaching for Kurt's face and hair, reaching to take tight hold of himself, desperate for something, anything. All the while Kurt's grinning devilishly, accomplished at what he can still do to this man, his man, and then repeating the grinding delicious torture over and over until Blaine is standing out, flushed skin, full and achingly hard, leaking and whimpering and whining up above him without even being touched there. Kurt hopes that some things will never change, he gets the pleasant feeling that they won't.     

He thinks about the future, maybe a time when more space in the apartment may be needed, would they move, would they leave even with the bar downstairs, these are all things to be discussed with Blaine of course. However Kurt can't see them moving out anytime soon at all, there are too many memories already made here, too many new and more waiting to be made, and there is more than enough space up here for more than two people, and yes Kurt allows himself to think of…that, he knows that anything is possible now, it's not quite as frightening, it's something that is no longer hopeless. He and Blaine can openly coo over children passing in the street, they can watch Four Weddings re-runs and comment easily without scaring each other, it's normal, it's ok to think positive without getting to carried away, it's perfect.

He also knows that no matter where they end up or what either of them are dong in Five, Ten, Twenty years time, that Blaine would never leave the bar, would never sell it, Kurt wouldn't let him, the place has such a strong sentimental value to him too, a place for children of the future to talk about and grow up in, and their children and theirs after that.

Kurt then remembers how happily surprised he was to learn one night when sitting on the floor with Blaine, blue prints and floor plans from the re-construction process spread out all over the floor around them, that there is actually a lot more hidden space that hasn't been used up on this floor, old rooms from the old theater layout, projection rooms and storage space for props and wardrobes and such, all hidden away behind fake walls and plaster. Blaine had explained that it all could be extended onto the apartment to create larger and extra space and rooms, the very thought of it excited Kurt far too much than he would let on at this moment.

He looked down into his cold empty mug and with a sigh slipped the blanket off and shuffled off to the direction of the kitchen to make more, on his way past his eye caught the box of holiday decorations that had been left out in the hallway after clearing everything up yesterday ready for the New Year and ready to be put into storage. He smiled and his heart flipped a little as he noticed the small handmade tree decoration peeking out of the top, it was a wooden star shape, painted bright yellow and on it written a little messily with golden glitter was something that Kurt would never not love reading again and again.

‘To uncle Blaine and uncle Kurt, Merry Christmas, you are my stars, love from Devon xxxx'

As he made his way into the kitchen Kurt fondly reminisced about the recent trip they had just made back to Ohio for a few days over the holiday period, Burt had invited them both over for Christmas, invite is maybe a little exaggerated, Burt requested, almost down right demanded that the boys come home to share some holiday time with he and Carole and without much deliberation at all a mutual decision was agreed.

…Christmas~  Six days prior…

The bar was open still over the holidays, there were some people after all who didn't have families or friends to share the time with, who didn't want to, some who couldn't care less and wished to spend it hunched over a bar. Some who's happy holiday tradition was to drink while their dinner cooked, go home and eat and then return, full and bloated ready to drink more and happier than ever.

Even then there were some small younger families who liked to come in, the mothers who didn't like to cook, the fathers who couldn't or vice versa, the larger extended families who didn't want their homes all messed up so they arranged for everyone to meet there and be waited on.

But there are also people who are willing and more than happy to work the holidays, students desperate for money and experience to add to their resumes, parents needing a little extra work to save up for that new year family getaway, so thankfully Blaine could take some much needed time off knowing that the bar would be in capable hands for a few days.

Rachel was actually staying in New York over Christmas this year, she needed to stay and work with her replacement in preparation for her new role, but she seemed surprisingly ok with it, Kurt kept the comment to himself that there maybe another reason or rather somebody why she was so calm about spending time at the theater over the festive season. Her dads flew out to stay with her for a few days instead, and she offered to keep checking in at The Stage to make sure all was running smoothly, after all little trusty Ivan would be there so Blaine had no real need to fret, and he was pretty sure that his gift to him in the way of a small promotion and pay rise would help seal the deal that the bar would be in good hands.  

Early on Christmas morning Blaine woke Kurt with soft kisses placed to any stretch of skin he could find as he tried to pull himself away and of out bed, he wasn't intentionally trying to wake him, he just could not leave the warmth of their bed, the warmth of Kurt without feeling him, touching and tasting and whispering a reverent and maybe a touch emotional ‘Merry Christmas Baby' repeatedly into his ear and skin. He hummed the tune of the well known holiday song accompanying the lyrics he'd just spoken into his throat, deep and raspy and rumbled as he made his way down Kurt's bare chest before quickly pulling back just as Kurt was waking up to drag him back down.

Blaine raced downstairs, made sure that the hand over to the holiday staff was complete and everybody knew what they were doing and everything was covered ready for him returning a couple of days before New Years Eve, he then excitedly raced back up to find Kurt sitting waiting for him on the floor by their quaint Christmas tree, crossed legged, wrapped up in a blanket with two steaming mugs by his feet, unopened gifts all around him and the most sweetest smile mixed with tired gorgeous sparkling eyes, reflecting from the glint off of the tree lights.

The morning was spent fabulously, one of the best Christmas mornings Kurt could remember having since being very young, it was spent unwrapping whilst thigh to thigh with Blaine on the floor snuggled under a blanket and dressed in warm new plaid PJ's whilst an animated Christmas movie about a young boy and a flying snowman played quietly on the TV. They cooed and kissed and cuddled over every gift, smiling so hard it hurt, before berating each other for spending that much money, or time and effort, money wasn't an issue with them, money wasn't, isn't everything, between them they pretty much had everything they needed and wanted, but it was always the thought that meant the most, the memory and the knowledge that went behind each gift no matter large or small. They laughed at the small humorous gifts they'd received from the likes of Ivan and Elliott and sent funny and sweet photo messages around to their nearest and dearest, sharing their Christmas well wishes.

After cleaning up, getting dressed and packing up the last few extra things, a small breakfast of bacon and toasted bagels and of course a couple of times of tackling each other back into bed or any available surface, they got their afternoon flight to Lima. Burt picked them up at the airport with a wide smile and arms open, ready for long warm hugs, and Blaine couldn't help the slight pleasant sting behind his eyelids, when they got to the Hummel residence they were tackled again by Carole as the scent of fresh homemade food filled the entrance hall, they exchanged more gifts and enjoyed a late Christmas dinner by candlelight with music flowing in the background.

They spent the next couple of days with Burt and Carole, relaxing, playing old board games, Blaine even played one of Carole's old holiday favourites on their old beat up piano in the back room, as everyone huddled around him with Coffee liquors.

Kurt took Blaine to meet some of his old school friends at their old favourite coffee shop, he had already told them about him and vice versa during Skype and long texting catch ups over the months gone by, but it felt so great to be able to introduce his old life to his new life, his future. As usual Blaine was his good-mannered, polite gorgeous self, greeting everyone happily and if not a little coyly, getting all flustered at the way Tina innocently eyed him up even though her husband and old high school sweetheart was a mere few feet away.

He got himself into conversations ranging from football, to dancing, the armed services and movies and the production process behind them with each of the guys as Kurt caught up with the girls on the next table, all blushing, giddy and giggly like back in School.

Kurt glanced over a couple of times and found Blaine deep in conversation with Sam, the good looking blonde kid from the New Directions, he was somewhat misconstrued as a little clueless but with a nice singing voice and a kind, warm heart. He overheard the words ‘modelling' and ‘Superheroes' among many others, he watched as Blaine threw his head back laughing dramatically and smiling widely as Sam gave him some spiel in another accent which sounded suspiciously like a famous movie quotation. Mercedes, his oldest and closest friend, before Rachel calmed herself down somewhat, from Sophomore year leant over and whispered into his ear, “Boy it looks like our men have hit it off, maybe a NY trip and a double date is on the cards next year when my label and Sam's management give us some free time and we actually settle in one place-” Kurt smiled and nodded along, excited to share his news of his upcoming gig with Mercedes, knowing what great and professional advice she could give him. He loved how easy everything was now, remembering how hard he fought, how badly he wanted this back in high school, and now he has everything and more.

On their last day before returning to New York to prepare for the upcoming New Year celebrations, Blaine and Kurt (before leaving New York) had previously made the mutual decision to travel to Westerville to see Blaine's family for Christmas too. Blaine had called first to let them know that they would be coming and if they could use one of the guest rooms for the night, and if the excited screeching on the other end of the phone was anything to go by, Kurt knew that Blaine's mother would be more than welcoming.

Kurt's stomach twisted during their journey from Lima to Westerville, Blaine squeezed his fingers within his own, a little tighter than usual whilst staring out of the window. Since the anniversary weekend at The Stage things with his father had been more or less the same, normal, no extra effort or none taken away, but Blaine couldn't help but feel that little more comfortable, actually a little happy for once about returning home and the thought of seeing him, even though his father usually kept himself to himself anyway.

Kurt knew that Blaine's dad wouldn't make him feel any less or any more of a specific way, not since finally and surprisingly meeting him not long ago, but he couldn't stop that generic meeting the parents feeling at the pit of his stomach, now he felt bad about making fun of Blaine back in the summer when the positions were switched, Kurt never thought he would have felt like that, never thought he would have had a reason to, and strangely still as nervous as he was, his skin prickled a little excitedly.

Blaine's mom met them as soon as they stepped onto the long, slightly snowy and frosted bush lined driveway, the front door swinging wide open and slamming against the stopper, she all-but ran in a very un-lady like manner all the way down towards them, her cooking apron flapping in the wind and her fluffy slippers almost falling from her feet. Blaine laughed as he dropped the handle of his and Kurt's shared suitcase and opened his arms wide as the woman flung herself into them, Kurt stepped back his hands clutched around he and Blaine's hand luggage and the small leather satchel of gifts they had brought, he smiled widely at the sight in front of him his own eyes misting over a little.

Quiet words, soft and unintelligible, obviously in Blaine's mother's native tongue were hushed beautifully into the cool frost bitten air around them as Blaine pulled back, kissing her cheeks as she tried to brush some curls back from his face, both sets of eyes shining, they grinned at each other before she playfully picked up his wrist and smacked at the back of his hand, Blaine chuckled, rolling his eyes in Kurt's direction and uttered an apology, she pointed a stern finger towards him and Kurt guessed maybe he was being scolded for not visiting sooner, Kurt hadn't even had time to think that it had been almost a year and Blaine hadn't been back to Ohio once, though he thought he knew why, but maybe now things could be, would be different.

He kissed his mom on the cheek once more before stepping back to pull Kurt forward, an introduction was barely muttered before Kurt was swept downwards into a soft embrace as an equally soft voice and more words he couldn't understand were spoken into his hair, over her shoulder Kurt caught Blaine's expression, he saw rather than heard his gasp as his eyes widened and more words fell from his mom's lips, high pitched and breathy, elated.

“Welcome Kurt, I'm so very happy and honoured to have you here, as part of our family, Blaine never stops talking about you whenever I get the privilege of his phone calls, did you know that?” She laughed as Blaine tutted playfully in the background and Kurt shook his head, delighted, he obviously liked the woman instantly, he knew that he would, and he also knew that no matter how far apart she was from her son, either of them, or how often they seen or heard from each other, her love so genuine and eager would never waver, only ever expand, he felt like he was destined to receive the same treatment. 

An hour later saw Kurt sitting on a comfy, plush love seat in a large sun room at the back of the house, the sky outside of the clear glass windows was a silvery blue with a few slight broken snowflakes quivering from the clouds above, beside him Blaine's mom who insisted at the very first instant that he call her Ana rested a palm on his knee and her other hand threading into Blaine's hair as he sat before them on the floor and played with and petted one of the family's fluffy brown cats.

Blaine's father had joined them from his office down the hall once they got inside and comfy and the refreshments had been made. He offered a polite handshake to Kurt, telling him not to stand and scrubbed Blaine's hair lightly before his mom batted his hand away, he sat on a chair on the far side of the room, calling one of the cats over and lifted it up in his hands to perch on his lap.

The group chatted idly about anything and everything for the next Five-Ten minutes, light hearted and strangely easy, even Blaine's dad would pitch in a comment or two whilst staring down at the cat fast asleep in his lap, it wasn't awkward though, Kurt knew that this was something he would learn to get used to, the man was here, he was trying and that's all that mattered, Blaine and Ana hadn't seemed to have noticed anything odd about his behaviour or attitude either so Kurt put it to the back of his mind.

A short while later a small voice sounded loudly from out in the main entrance hall, high and squeaky and undoubtedly excited, Blaine straightened from his slouch as his mom laughed, tapping him on the shoulder, “Time for the surprise I guess,” she chuckled as Blaine leapt to his feet just as a little boy, with dark floppy hair came running through almost crashing into the clear double doors.

After the initial meet and greet and warm, long hugs from most members of the family, Kurt was secretly satisfied to see that Cooper and his wife were also met with a less than frosty holiday greeting from the older Anderson, and gifts exchanged the rest of the morning, the afternoon, the whole day was filled with loud chatter and laughter. Ana and Cooper's wife, a lovely business-type lady who made a real conscious effort with Kurt, making him feel welcome and asked for his opinion on the outfit she was wearing, made their way in to the kitchen, pouring glasses of wine and preparing snacks and drinks and platters of food for everyone to come and pick at, Kurt joined them once or twice and the three of them hauled themselves into a mulled wine fuelled discussion about how to create the perfect crumble base for deserts, and New Year on-trend accessories.

Mr Anderson after a while retreated back to his office with a glass of Sherry that Blaine had brought for him, just an old bottle he'd dusted down and thrown carelessly into a bag after stumbling across it in the cellar, the man most likely had access to a thousand bottles of Liquor of his choosing, but it was Christmas and the thought was there, whether he cared for it or not.    

The day was surprisingly pleasant and delightful, Kurt was happy to admit he was enjoying himself, meeting the people who made Blaine, his Blaine. He couldn't take his eyes off of Blaine and his nephew, they were like best friends reunited, thick as thieves and completely adorable to watch, it was obvious how much Devon looked up to Blaine. The sight was also made 100% more cuter by the fact that they were wearing matching Bowties, light Blue with tiny green Dinosaurs all around, homemade and proudly presented by Kurt. He remembered Blaine telling him about their shared interest and he'll never forget the way both of the boy's faces lit up with surprise and joy, he was just going to leave the gift bag with Blaine parents or even mail it over to LA but that, in the flesh was even better, Devon squeezed him tightly around his legs, murmuring repeated thank yous and asking for help to put it on, whilst Blaine planted messy kisses on his cheeks and ending one in a raspberry, causing Devon to break out into cries of laughter, asking to do it too.

Kurt had discovered that Devon was an absolute joy, Kurt sat with Blaine and the boy between them, a leg on each of their laps and talked animatedly together about cartoons, school, New York, Kurt promised him a trip to the AMNH when his parents could bring him to visit, and Ana showed him the video of them singing at The Stage on her husbands phone, the little boys eyes, doubles of his fathers, lit up as he watched, smiling at their voices and poking his uncle in the side trying to wink at him with both eyes.

Kurt quickly fell in love with him much like Blaine advised that he would, he was super intelligent, a very observant young man and at the perfect age, young enough to be cheekily curious but old enough to be respectful. He was a ball of positive energy, a perfect example of naïve innocent youth, watching and listening intently, eager to learn and imitate, an unknown source of humour, easily assisting the more ‘stiff' members of the group into wide smiles and huffs of laughter. He spent most of his time glued to Blaine's side, on his lap, in his arms, over his shoulder in a fireman's carry as he broke out into fits of hysterical giggles, he had Blaine's boyish charm, his polite mannerisms and of course both of the Anderson's brother's good looks, even at his early age, he would break some hearts when he was older, and Kurt hoped it would be unintentionally, but he knew this boy didn't have a bad bone in his body, like the other Anderson's, even somewhere deep down like his grandfather.

Cooper, Kurt had quickly come to find out was a very lovable interesting character, he was friendly, polite and charming with a hint of sarcasm and mindless humour surfacing somewhere, but above all he was surprisingly calm and quiet. Kurt knew, he was told, that Cooper never used to be that way, and in some way he could feel it about him, he could sense the man Twenty years younger, immature, loud and full of himself, selfish and unthinking, he knew that he and Blaine had shared their differences and spats in the past like most siblings did, but he also knew that there was a time when all they had was each other, save for their mom who tried to be there for them when she could.

It was undeniable, the brotherly bond that they shared now, it was readable within Coopers bright white grin as he smiled down at his son and brother play fighting on the rug, egging the youngest of the two on and calling out, ‘go for his back son, his back, he's old now,' Kurt giggled, watching the two and Cooper side stepped over to him, elbowing him playfully, directing to Blaine with his chin,

“You've got all this to come, you know that right and you being the youngest will have to haul his ass off of the floor… cause this guys done-zooo, and not just his back, he's done with looking and waiting, you're it for him, you're his retired people's home sweet heart, congrats-” and with that he clinked his bottle against Kurt's glass, smiled breathtakingly at him and took a swig of beer before continuing cheering on the wrestling match, leaving Kurt choked up, his heart thumping and threatening to burst.

Putting the heartfelt words and sentiment aside for a moment as he tried to calm his beating heart and rapid breaths, Kurt couldn't help but think of Blaine and the playful comment Cooper had made, even for his age, though not that old at all and especially younger than Cooper himself. At how fit and strangely supple and energetic Blaine is, the play-fighting with Devon, the play-fighting back at home, tackling each other into many agile positions until it becomes mostly playing of a completely different kind. That time when Kurt found him on a Monday morning down in the far corner of one of the empty storage rooms of The Stage by the cellar, he followed the echoing sounds of a ‘thwack' and ‘whomp' to find him wearing black shorts, a matching tank top and sneakers, pummelling a red leather punching bag which was hanging from the ceiling into the next wall, sweat gathering and muscles rippling gorgeously. Blaine told him that he occasionally used the space as his own private gym from time to time, for fun, a way of keeping fit and burning any residual tension from awkward drunken customers.

Kurt had no worries about Blaine's level of stamina and health and fitness in any form, no matter how many take outs they ordered or how many grams of butter he added to the pastry ingredients bowl.       

After the match when Devon was waving his arms victoriously and Blaine declared himself ‘out of the game' and stood to join them, he and Cooper back slapped and caught up on life, filling each other in on their respective jobs and such, whilst Blaine's arm subconsciously stretched out, pulling Kurt closer by his waist.

For Christmas his grandparents had bought Devon a big art set and creative station complete with paint and stickers, wooden templates and stencils, ribbons and metallic pens, felt and glue and glitter and sheets of coloured paper and card. As the day grew long and dark and Cooper stoked the fire to life in the large family room, Devon lay on his front with his paint set spread out around him, glitter pens lying uncapped and glue smudged on his face. The grown ups sat around him on the obnoxiously comfortable large couches, music playing whilst Kurt hummed along whilst flicking through the Fashion through the decades book that Ana had bought him, Blaine joined in with subtle quiet words and was soon joined by Cooper, harmonizing and doing some humorous embarrassing chair dancing.

Later that night when the fire was being fed with the last of the bark and kindle, the drinks were topped up and the last of the cheese and meat platters were brought in from the kitchen, Devon was being bribed with the biggest, best-est breakfast of his choosing if he went up to bed in the guest-family room at an already late hour with no complaints, as he shuffled his feet in his Spiderman slippers, he bent down next to the fire place where his art work was drying from earlier and picked something up, cradling it in his palms as he turned around and approached Kurt and Blaine who were sitting on the sofa, legs entwined.

With flushed cheeks, and a shy grin Devon crawled up onto Blaine's knee and gave the pair his gift whispering “for next year,” before begrudgingly bidding them goodnight and being hoisted up and into the air by Cooper and out of the room, leaving Kurt with watery eyes and Blaine one of his beautiful breath taking smiles.

….New Years Eve~ Present Day….

Kurt finished up making his re-fill and headed for the bedroom to slowly pull himself round and ready for the long busy day ahead, and change into some lounge clothes, smiling as he passed the box once more. A little while later, hair drying naturally and face fresh and moisturised, dressed in casual light denim jeans and a long sleeved blue Henley, he was just adding the cream to his third Coffee and drizzling some maple syrup onto a plate of toasted waffles as he heard the jingle of keys and click and slide of the front door opening and closing from out in the hallway. He smiled excitedly and hurriedly prepared another mug, jabbing an extra fork on to the plate and waltzing out over into the front room just as Blaine was slipping out of his boots, hanging up his coat and unwrapping his scarf. Blaine's curls flopped over his head, dripping with melted frost and he smelled of fresh, icy cool air, his cheeks and the tip of his nose were tinged pink and he smiled widely at Kurt when he noticed him coming forward, precariously balancing the plate and two mugs in his hands whilst trying to place them on the coffee table.

“Have you not learnt the ‘server's way' yet?” His smile was teasing as he hurried over, taking one of the cups out of Kurt's hold and picked up the forks as they clattered against the plate before they fell off, Kurt clicked his tongue at him and rolled his eyes as they fell back on the sofa side by side, he pulled a cushion over his lap and balanced the plate of Waffles on top.

“Sshh you… come on tell me everything, what happened? What did they say?”

Blaine offered a shy smile as he reached forward with a fork and cut off a corner of one of the waffles, a drop of syrup threatened to break free and he ducked down with his tongue, licking away the traces, taking a bite then extending the fork towards Kurt's lips which opened automatically and accepted the piece. Kurt eyes widened, his expression exasperated as he chewed, his wrists rolling and hands waving in front of him, a clear sign that Blaine needs to start talking and stop teasing.

Blaine smirked and settled back a little, a hand rising to pat at his damp hair, “Well they um, they said that, they-”

“Blaine!”

“They took us up on the offer-”

“Oh my god, no way, so they're gonna, they really want to-”

“Yes! They thought about it and accepted, they want to use The Stage for the Annual Appreciate The Arts Gala or the AATA's, you know, whatever you kids call it-”

“Gosh Blaine that is amazing, this is amazing-everything is just amazing, I actually have a gig, a paid gig, I was scouted out to perform, ME, and I'm being paid for it, like a job not a hobby, a JOB… AND to top it all off they are holding the very same thing where I will be performing…here…as in HERE Blaine, your bar, our home… oh my god imagine all the publicity this place will get-” Blaine laughed as Kurt's voice rose with each word as he rambled on, his smile beyond toothy, cheeks flushed and hands flailing around. Blaine scooted closer, their knees overlapping and moved the plate away before it fell from the cushions and smeared syrup everywhere which would no doubt dampen Kurt's ecstatic state. He caught Kurt's hands within his own and brought them up to his lips, kissing and playfully, excitedly nibbling at his knuckles willing him to catch a breath.

“I know baby I know, it is, it's incredible, it's so exciting, it's going to be great, it's just that, there's, there's more-” Kurt stilled, his eyes widening as he searched Blaine's face, Blaine's beautiful smiling, yet torn looking face, he thought that his heart couldn't thump any harder, couldn't grow any fuller, he thought that all of his happy slots were taken, he didn't know he could expect more. What could it be that was more than Kurt landing such a fabulous opportunity, more than Kurt experiencing this all at none other than The Stage, their very own, more than Blaine and the bar and staff gaining the recognition that the beautiful building and establishment finally deserves.

“More? More, what?” Blaine kissed Kurt's hand softly, a few more times, light quick pecks, whilst Kurt remained as silent and still as he could, Blaine was steeling himself, gaining courage and reassurance from the simple touch of lips to skin and Kurt would try and be as patient as he could possibly manage, but sometimes he wished his boyfriend would just come out with it. Blaine looked down to Kurt's hand within his, he smoothed his thumb over the back and cleared his throat, smiling a little whilst looking up, his hazel eyes warm and clear, and Kurt knew that this was something far beyond more.

“They uh, they came down, the producers, the event organisers, to scope out the place after you put The Stage forward as a location suggestion, they came totally unknown, a Thursday, they sat in the back and I um, I didn't know, it was quiet, it was the last open mic night before Christmas and it was real quiet, you were out shopping and I uh, I sang, was just filling up space and time I guess, but I sang a song that I'd been working on, I was just playing around, it wasn't even proper but I-I didn't know they were there, they just told me-”

“You wrote it, the song you were singing?” Kurt knew that Blaine wrote his own stuff, there were pads and pads of endless scribbles and notations shelved away in their storage unit from years ago, he knew that Blaine had started writing again recently, playing around, experimenting, but he'd never saw it in action, he'd never heard, he knew there would be time, that Blaine would be waiting to perfect the tune just right for Kurt's ears alone.

“Yeah I, I didn't think anybody was particularly paying attention-”

“Honey, everybody pays attention, people come to those nights just to see and hear you-”

“Kurt-”

“Nah-ah-none of that, what's happened, what are you trying to tell me Blaine-” Kurt waved a dismissive hand around, now was not the time for Blaine to belittle himself and underrate his talent, he trembled with nerves and excitement, not wanting to assume that Blaine was trying to say what he thinks he is actually trying to say.

“They liked my song Kurt, my music, my words, the way I play, they-they want me to play, they want me for their new composers section-” Kurt was pretty damn glad that Blaine had removed the plate and that the coffee table was far enough away that the objects sitting on it were only subjected to a mere brush and a rattle as Kurt flung himself forward all arms and legs into Blaine arms.

Blaine heaved a breath as their chests collided, wrapping his arms tight around Kurt's shoulders as he breathed into his neck, eyes screwed shut, “they want me Kurt, they want me, they want to listen to me, they want me to write for them-” Kurt giggled breathlessly, knowing exactly what to say, what he wanted to say, but just couldn't form the words. There were tears streaming down his face and neck, Blaine brushed his nose against the wetness and sobbed a chuckle into his skin, he looked up to Kurt's face, he looked angelic like, pale and smooth skin, wide clear blue eyes shining with greys and green, parted pink lips stretched wide to his defined cheek bones. Blaine brushed his thumbs over the tracks of Kurt's tears and kissed his nose, trailing his lips up to his forehead and kissed him long and slow before finally moving down to his lips, edging him thumb toward the corner of his mouth, watching intently like Kurt's face was the only place he could pull focus right now, he smiled, shaking his head slightly like he was really trying to make himself believe it.

This was everything, everything, it wasn't just the fact that Blaine had been offered this chance alongside Kurt, it was that this was the very tip of the iceberg between everything that was happening for and between them right now. They still had a long way to go, relationship and future wise, but as far reaching out and trying to grab on to something else, something new career wise, something that they both had always yearned for, they were there this was it, it was starting. They could both hardly believe it, it may not all be plain sailing and rainbows in the future and a lot of hard work was set to come their way, long days and nights, but for now they could allow themselves to shed their joint happy tears at how easy It had been to finally jump off of that ledge and have a safe a landing, together, they found what they were looking together.

Kurt finally seemed to connect his brain with his tongue and ducked in planting a firm kiss on Blaine's lips, smiling at how wide eyed and in shock he looked, he looked so young and innocent, there was something else behind his eyes, something he didn't look sure of but Kurt put it down to just being completely bewildered at the fantastic news, “Blaine that is just so-oh my god honey, I cannot even begin to explain how happy I am for you, about everything, wow, it's about time that-”

“But this is your night Kurt-” Kurt's words dried up in his throat, frozen in position, Blaine's voice was so quiet and small, his lips barely moving, but he was heard perfectly, his words felt like they echoed around the barely there space between their bodies and Kurt could do nothing but just stare at him, not quite wanting to register what he thought Blaine was trying to put out there.

“B-Blaine-”

“Kurt this is your night, your chance, your opportunity, you earned it, you deserve this so much baby, I-I'm not going to take this away from you-”

“You wont, you're not, how could you even think-” Kurt started to tremble, his voice slowly starting to creep up in pitch and quicken as he took steady breaths and fought to keep calm, Blaine could not be serious right now.

“Kurt, everyone, all of our friends, family, they are all coming to see you, this is your news, your achievement, what will they think when I'm up there too huh? I'm old and washed up now, I had my time, my stage is good enough for me now-” Kurt pulled back, putting some space between their thighs and untangling their hands, not noticing the way Blaine visibly deflated and winced at the loss but not daring to stop to take a breath until he got out what he needed to. Kurt stared at Blaine's face incredulously, watching him ramble on stupidly, his chin was angled down and he could hardly meet Kurt's eyes as he continued.

“Yes I'm elated, way beyond that and immensely proud that I have been offered this, my work has been recognised, that's good enough for me, I'm playing again that's enough, that's all I've wanted-”

“That's all I've wanted too-”

“But I'm not accepting it, I wont, they're using the bar for the space and that's fantastic in itself, that's enough-” For the first time in their whole relationship, Kurt felt frustrated towards Blaine and his persistent useless rambling, he felt something close to anger.

Yes there had been times when they would annoy each other, maybe choosing the wrong phrasing or when Blaine opened the new carton of milk before using up the remainder of the last one first, small petty things like that, that they have to grow used of, it will happen in a domestic relationship.

But this now, this was different, his words were cutting, deep and dark and final and Kurt could hardly stand it, Blaine had never been this closed off before, not with him. It was like he was a robot just spouting out perfectly rehearsed unfelt words, Kurt just wanted to shake him. He took a measured breath and looked up at his boyfriend's face, his beautiful sad looking face even though he was desperately trying to rise the corner of his lips into a hopeless smile, he looked pained and Kurt's breath hitched in his throat.

The sudden spike of anger and frustration he had just felt really couldn't last very long, as he watched Blaine, here he was, here they both were, on the cusp of having everything they had waited so long for, and Blaine yet again was trying to talk himself out of it, was trying to put himself last because of Kurt, because of his love for him.

Kurt knew that he would never meet another man like him, another person, so selfless, so blinded by affection, no matter how frustrating he was, his heart only ever expanded when he thought it could explode, when it came to Blaine there was an unlimited amount of space in his heart and soul for him, no matter what way he made him feel at the time.

He chose his next words carefully, preparing himself for something big, maybe something drastic, but Blaine would listen to him, he had to, Kurt only had one planned outcome for this. He closed the space between them again, took one of Blaine's hands gently and placed his other on the edge of Blaine's jaw, his thumb brushing over his stubble, his voice was calm and soft, quiet, his words were aimed to be soothing not alarming, but his tone was authoritative, a clear message, a warning.

“Blaine?”

“No Kurt-”

“No, no you Blaine, you listen to me-” Blaine eyes shot up to Kurt's, he looked like a child, his eyes so large and clear and maybe Kurt imagined that his bottom lip quivered a little.

“I get it, I really do, I understand what you are saying, completely, I would have felt the same if the roles were reversed,” It was true, but Kurt knew that Blaine would have reacted the exact same if that were the case.

“But honey, this is different, this is so different, you're not gonna be hanging out in the background of my stage time, playing or singing a well known classic, and honestly I would have loved it if you were,” Blaine scoffed and looked like was going to interject but Kurt raised a finger to his lips.

“Yes we both have a similar dream, of performing to an audience, of showing what we've got, of wanting everyone to see and hear, and starting out on this road with you is just unbelievable, but that's where it ends honey, you're not taking anything from me, I love you but we all know that you can't touch me when it comes to Wicked, Company and Cats,”

Blaine laughed and snorted, an adorable sound which ended in a slight sniffle and Kurt's heart leapt at the sound, he rubbed his thumbs over his stubbly jaw and smooth skin of his hand.

“But honey, I could never, never sit at a piano or take any instrument the way you can and convey my emotions, my feelings into words and song, I can't make a musical version of what's going on in my mind and have it seep through my very eyes and expressions like you, and that is what they want from you, not something like what I can do, they want both of us for our very similar but also very different talents,” Blaine let out a shuddering breath and Kurt knew he had him.

Yes Blaine could do all of that already in the comfort of the bar, but it would never be enough, no matter what Blaine tried to tell himself, Kurt understands that now, after having stern words with himself about similar things not so long ago. 

“So yes Blaine, all of our friends and family will come along, I damn sure hope so anyway, and they'll watch me all jazz hands and high kicks and heart wrenching, giving it all I got, and you'll be there too, and I'll look at you watching me, I'll sing the very last notes for you, all for you even when the crowd is deafening as I finish, and then later when the set has been swapped out or wherever in The Stage they choose to place the different segments, it will be me watching you behind that piano and you looking back at me, and everyone will cheer and applaud just as loudly and brilliantly…you're doing this Blaine, we're doing this together, always honey, always together, not copying or hanging off of each other but side by side.” 

Silent tears trailed down Blaine's cheeks as he nodded dimly, his lips trembling trying to lift into his heart stopping smile, eyes crinkling, the tears dropped to the pad of Kurt's thumb as he brushed them away, nobody likes wet stubble, Kurt leaned in and pecked at the last few drops over his face and Blaine ducked down nuzzling into the soft hair at the nape of his neck, mouthing and sucking, smelling and breathing, grounding himself in the familiar place, home.

“How are you so perfect Kurt? How can you see, how can you know me so well, what did I ever do to deserve you, where have you been all of this time?” Kurt smiled into Blaine's hairline as he let him continue rambling away, the soft hairs tickling his nose, “I guess I always thought that you being somewhat younger, I'd, I would have had to stand back and think things over myself sometimes, letting you learn and come to your own conclusions and make your own mistakes, like I did Ten years ago, hell like I still do, but you're, you're not like that Kurt, you're so switched on and enigmatic, so special, you just know, thank you, thank you so much.”  

Kurt brushed his lips over Blaine's temples, and hummed, Blaine would never have to thank him, this was just a given but he knew what he was getting at somewhere amongst all of that, Blaine was special too and he knew it was up to him to bring it out of him, to constantly remind him, his dad knew it too.

“Hey, I don't think told you, that when we were back in Lima over Christmas, when you and Carole were watching that Rat Pack documentary, my dad, he um he told me what he said to you that day here when you guys were watching the game together-” Blaine placed a small kiss to Kurt's neck before sitting up and pulling back to look at Kurt's face, he tensed slightly unsure of what to expect, of what or how much Kurt knew.

“He, he did? What uh, what did he say?”

“Well we were talking about the event, about what I would like to get out of it and do while I'm there and we got on eventually to talking about you, he said that he asked you about your music, about what you write and what you play, what you were planning to do about it, if anything at all and that you were very closed off about it at first,” Blaine swallowed thickly, silently, blinking hard and fast.

“But my dad has a certain special skill you see, a talent for foreseeing the inevitable, and he told you something that he told me once, that he was forever telling me back in school and when I made the scary decision to come out here after graduation,” Blaine nodded weakly, Kurt pecked his nose, “What did he tell you honey?”

“If you want something you gotta go get it-” Kurt finished the sentenced with him quietly, just Nine simple words, nothing jazzy or long or too in depth or intricate, just Nine words spoken so soft and easily yet laced with such weight and meaning, they echoed all around the ears and mind, unforgettable.

“No matter who's around you, who is saying what to encourage you or who isn't, no matter what you think is right or wrong, if you want it, then you take it, cause if it's something you feel so passionate about then chances are it was already yours right from the start, no matter what struggle there is to get there in the end-” Blaine's eyes lit with pleasure and passion, warming with desire, he dove forward and pinned Kurt's face in his hands, lips attached taking and giving and needing, gently pushing him backwards into the cushions.

He knew, strangely they both knew without making it too obvious, that those words had suddenly acquired a whole new meaning, and that tonight those words would turn into actions. Thinking back to that day he and Burt had shared their little ‘talk' during the game intermission, he knew back then, Burt knew then, that this was coming, even the time spent together recently over the holidays, the way Burt dropped subtle hints and looks, showed Blaine that he knew what was coming, that he was happy, that he was proud. Kurt was right, his father did have such a fantastic way of conveying his thoughts and feelings with very little words or even any at all.

Kurt moved his hand up to push at Blaine's long sleeves as his other worked at the buttons at his collar, his fingers grazed a small bump under the fabric as they glided along Blaine's inner arm, his eyes flicked over to the spot, his tongue still tracing Blaine's mouth which had moulded into a small grin that he could feel. He peeled back Blaine's sleeve with careful fingers revealing his wide spread glorious tattoo and a very small bandage taped to the corner of it, a thin dotted line of blood tracing through.

“Blaine? What have you done?”