*15 Years Later*

"International pop sensation and Prince of Pop, Blaine Anderson announced today his next world tour will be kicking off this summer in L.A. This will be his fifth-"

-CLICK-

"Hey!"

"Rachel, you know that stuff isn't allowed in here."

Rachel Berry glared at Kurt from where she was sitting on the couch. Kurt rolled his eyes and made his way to the kitchen. He hated the gossip entertainment shows on their own, not to mention when they talked about his former co-star. It was already weird enough that he had struck up such a close relationship with Rachel Berry of all people. They'd been re-united at NYU where they were both studying performing arts. Rachel had stayed in the Mickey Mouse Club until she was eighteen, then went to college. Her sights were set on Broadway as well, and so the unlikely friendship was formed.

They were currently roommates living in an amazing penthouse on the Upper East Side. Both of them were living out their dreams. Rachel had taken over the role of Maureen in the revival of RENT on Broadway, while Kurt had taken the role of Adam/Felicia in Priscilla: Queen of the Desert. Kurt was a bit apprehensive about taking the role intially, since it was a very flamboyant role plus he had to dress in drag. The show's overall message of love and acceptance was what really made him take the role. Besides, who was he to turn down a role in such a popular show?

After starting the show, he was glad he'd taken a chance with it. It was such a fun show, and he loved the people he worked with. He'd even met his current boyfriend there, a dancer and back-up singer named Chandler. Kurt had never been happier. Together, he and Rachel had taken Broadway by storm, creating buzz and winning awards left and right at only twenty-seven and twenty-eight respectively.

Rachel stomped after Kurt and into the kitchen. "I really don't see what your problem with Blaine is. He's really a nice guy, and even you can't deny how attractive he is. Plus he really is very talented; I thought you would respect that."

Kurt glared at his best friend. "Yeah, real talented. It takes a whole lot of talent to use a backing track when you 'perform'. He's cocky and arrogant and is really only mediocre. He's a sellout."

"Okay, so the one time you watch him perform just happens to be the time he uses a back track - it doesn't mean he does every time. I'm sure there was a reason. C'mon you know he can sing live! He's been doing it since we were kids!"

Kurt groaned, grabbing his coffee and taking a sip. "I don't have time to discuss this right now Rachel. I have somewhere I need to be."

Rachel looked intrigued. "Oh? And where would that be? Off to see your loverboy?"

Kurt blushed a little but smiled. "As a matter of fact yes. I'm going to surprise him with breakfast. So I really must be going."

Rachel sighed. "Okay fine. But please think about coming tonight. Brit and Santana will be there, plus a lot of industry people are going to be there. I think Santana mentioned something about Finn possibly being there too, and I would so not mind seeing him." Rachel had had a crush on Finn since they were in the club together, but had been too afraid to try the whole long distance thing.

Kurt shook his head and kissed his Rachel on the cheek. "I'll text you and let you know. Love you!"

"Love you too Kurt! Tell Chandler hi for me!"

Kurt gave a little wave over his shoulder as he walked out the door. He felt an odd spring in his step today, feeling a little giddy at the thought of surprising his boyfriend. They had only been dating a few months, but Kurt felt really good about them. Chandler was always so energetic and happy, and it seemed to rub off on Kurt. He got into a cab and made a quick stop at their coffee shop, then to the grocery store nearby to pick up some fresh fruit. Arms laden with bags and coffee, Kurt made his way up to Chandler's apartment.

Unfortunately, the elevator in the building wasn't working so Kurt had to walk up thirteen flights of stairs. Eventually he got to Chandler's door, and after some readjusting all the things in his hand, he knocked loudly a few times then stepped back. He was smiling to himself as he waited. The door slowly opened and Kurt froze.

That was not Chandler.

That was a very shirtless not Chandler.

Kurt glanced at the number on the door, making sure he was in the right place. He was. Shirtless not Chandler was giving Kurt an expectant look. "Can I help you sir?"

Kurt blinked, not really knowing what he was supposed to do in the moment. "Uh. I uh-"

The door opened wider and suddenly Chandler was there, staring wide-eyed at Kurt. "Kurt! Hi. Uh. Wh-what are you doing here?" The guilty look on Chandler's face, and the constant glancing between himself and the shirtless mystery boy was enough for Kurt to understand what was going on here. He put on his best bitch face and gave Chandler a sickeningly sweet smile. Then he turned his gaze to the confused looking stranger.

"Sorry to interrupt. I'm Chandler's ex boyfriend. Thought he'd like this." And with that, Kurt threw the bag of fruit and the hot coffee at Chandler, before stomping off without looking back. He could already feel the tears brimming behind his eyes by the time he made it to the stairwell. He couldn't believe how foolish he'd been. He had always told himself not to get too close to anybody, and here he was completely heartbroken because he had let himself finally trust someone.

He'd thought Chandler was different because he was just so nice and sweet. Kurt was holding back the tears, just needing to get back home before breaking down. You never knew when there was a Broadway enthusiast or paparazzi hanging around, and he would NOT be caught crying on camera. Thank God for big sunglasses. He got in a cab and replayed the last ten minutes in his head. He was embarrassed beyond anything. Embarrassed he obviously wasn't enough for Chandler, so he'd had to look elsewhere. The half naked man kept popping up in his mind. He was far more built than Kurt was. Sure, Kurt was in really good shape, especially from being in the show, but this guy was all muscle, unlike Kurt who was slim with definition.

Kurt hardly paid attention as he was driven back home, and before he knew it he was outside his building. He threw some money at the cabbie, not caring that he probably just tipped the guy thirty dollars. He rushed inside, mumbling a weak hello to the doorman, then thankfully reached the empty elevator. Once the doors were closed, he let a few tears drop, knowing he'd be in his sanctuary soon enough, with Rachel there to hold him.

He tore through his front door, letting out a small sob as the door slammed behind him. Rachel was upon him in an instant, wrapping him in a hug without even knowing what happened. "Kurt? What is it honey?"

Kurt shook his head and sobbed harder into Rachel's shoulder. She rubbed his back soothingly, making comforting noises and just letting him get it all out. Once he calmed down some, she led him over to the couch and made him sit. After handing him a box of tissues, she headed for the kitchen for some tea. Once there though, tea didn't sound right for the moment. She opened the freezer and grabbed the bottle of vodka instead, not caring that it wasn't even noon yet. Forgoing a glass completely, she carried the whole bottle out to Kurt. She sat next to him, handing him the bottle silently.

Kurt grabbed the bottle and took a long drink. The burn from the alcohol helped shock him back into feeling. He took a deep breath and gave Rachel a small smile. "Thanks Rachel." She nodded and grabbed his hand, intertwining their fingers then pulling him to her side. "Now tell me what happened."

Kurt sighed and closed his eyes. "I got there and some shirtless guy answered the door. Then Chandler came out looking like a kid caught with his hand in the cookie jar. That was all the explanation I needed."

Rachel made a noise of disgust. "Oh honey. I'm so sorry."

Kurt gave a small shrug. "I just can't believe how stupid I've been. I mean, I knew he wasn't the one or whatever. But I really cared for him and he was so kind to me. I didn't think he'd do something like this. I can't believe I actually let myself trust someone for once. I should have known it would blow up in my face. What's wrong with me Rachel? Why can't I just have someone to actually love me?"

"No Kurt. Don't say that. Don't blame yourself for this. This was all him. You're amazing and he's an idiot for not seeing that."

"I can't help but feel like he was only with me because of my...fame I guess. I'm one of the stars of the show, and it was thrilling or whatever for him to be linked with the star of a Broadway show. And oh god how the hell am I suppose to go back to work and face him now! My phone has been going off nonstop since I threw the coffee at him and left."

Rachel smiled a little. "You threw hot coffee at him? I'm impressed. And you'll just ignore him. Sam is coming tonight, so you tell him to stay by you at all times so Chandler doesn't get a moment to try and talk to you." Sam Evans was Kurt's co-star in the show, and the two had become good friends during their time together.

Kurt sat up and shook his head at Rachel. "I'm not going. I can't go to an event tonight. Rachel, look at me!"

Rachel fixed him with a hard stare. "You most certainly are coming. It's the perfect excuse to get out of the house and forget that loser. Plus I will force you to take some pictures with other men that will most definitely be on Broadway blogs by morning. Show that Chandler that you're not upset in the least."

"But I am upset Rachel! I feel like such an idiot! I can't go. I can't be in a room with reporters that will be asking me questions about the show. I can't put on the fake smile tonight. Just let me have a night with The Notebook and the largest tub of ice cream I can find."

Rachel shook her head. "Absolutely not. You need to show him that you don't care, even if you do. Then he'll leave you alone too. Well, hopefully. He always kind of struck me as the clingy type. Give me your phone. I'm deleting all his messages and his number."

Kurt sighed and dug out his phone, knowing better than to resist her. He glanced at his phone, seeing fifty some texts and thirty some missed calls. He silently handed the phone to Rachel, who deleted all the messages without even reading any.

"That's done. Now come on. We're going to the spa for facials, then shopping for something to wear tonight and by the end of the day you'll forget all about that idiot." Kurt stumbled along after her, thinking at least the facial and shopping sounded nice.

Kurt was often thankful to have Rachel in his life, but he was even more thankful on a day like today. The facial and shopping really were just what he needed. He was still embarrassed by everything that had happened, but was feeling less heartbroken by it. Plus he got a fabulous new outfit courtesy of Dennis Basso. He and Rachel were currently in their town car, being driven to where the event was. As much as Kurt didn't want to go, he really did want to see Brittany. The two had kept in touch, but it was mostly through rushed emails and short phone calls. Brittany and Santana were a pop duet sensation, calling themselves 'Sweet 'N Sour' based on Brit's innocence and Santana's feisty attitude.

They were about a block away from their destination when the road became completely blocked. Kurt looked out his windows and saw paparazzi and fans everywhere. He groaned. He thought this was supposed to be a small event. He now had a feeling some really big names were here and debated trying to talk his way out of going. As if sensing his thoughts, Rachel grabbed his hand and opened her door. She spoke to their driver, "This will be fine here. Thank you so much, sir."

Kurt had no choice but to follow her, the grip on his hand basically cutting off his circulation. He thanked the driver and stepped out onto the busy street. They were immediately surrounded by flashes and shouts. Rachel beamed under all the attention, while Kurt ducked his head and smiled, keeping his grip on Rachel's hand. They weaved their way through the crowd, finally reaching the door. Kurt wondered again who had shown up to cause such madness outside.

He sighed in relief once they were inside and walking towards the elevator and stepping inside. "Do you think there will still be dating rumors about us? Or will they finally get the message that I'm actually quite gay?"

Rachel threw her head back and laughed. Once they had started gaining fame, there were insane rumors about the two of them dating, though Kurt had never been shy in admitting his homosexuality. It was one of the few times Kurt actually read the gossip magazines, just so he could laugh at how ridiculous they were. After many interviews stating they were best friends, and roommates, most magazines got the hint.

The eleveator dinged, signaling their arrival. The doors opened and they heard soft music playing below the din of conversation. They were immediately greeted by name and were asked for their coats. The party actually took up the whole floor of the building, so Kurt couldn't yet see who was here. As he waited for Rachel to hand her coat over, he spotted his co-star Sam talking to some woman he didn't know. Sam looked over and saw Kurt, giving him an excited wave and excusing himself from the woman to make his way over.

"Kurt! I thought you weren't coming? Hi Rachel, you look lovely as ever."

Rachel gave Sam a small smile and tucked her arm under Kurt's. "Thank you Sam. And Kurt is here so he doesn't mope around all night."

Kurt groaned and shot Rachel a glare. "I'm perfectly capable of talking for myself you know."

Sam looked confused. "Moping? Everything alright Kurt?"

At Rachel's pointed look, Kurt told Sam, "Chandler and I...erm, broke up."

Sam widened his eyes in surprise and raised a questioning eyebrow. Kurt walked further into the room as he explained everything that had happened that morning. Sam looked just as shocked as Kurt felt about the whole thing. When Kurt mentioned how nervous he was to go back to work the following evening, Sam reassured him, "Don't worry Kurt. I won't let him get near you. I got your back bro."

Kurt smiled. He knew he could count on Sam. "Thank you Sam. It's just going to be super awkward. I had to turn my phone off because he won't stop calling."

Sam put a comforting hand on Kurt's shoulder. Kurt smiled again when he heard someone say his name. "Kurt Hummel? Is that my little boo?"

Kurt snapped his head to the side and let out a squeal. "Mercedes!" He rushed forward and gave his old friend a hug. Mercedes was probably the most successful thing to come out of the Mickey Mouse Club. She was the new Queen of Soul and R&B. It had been years since they last saw each other. They both laughed as they hugged tight, Kurt pulling back to look her over. "You look great! Are you the reason there's so many paps downstairs?"

Mercedes laughed and shook her head. "You look great too! And Rachel! Oh, it's like a MMC reunion! I just saw Brit and San too!"

Rachel stepped forward to hug Mercedes as well. Sam was standing there staring at Mercedes in awe. Kurt cleared his throat to get everyone's attention. "And Mercedes this is Sam, he's in Priscilla with me."

Mercedes and Sam stared at each other, a shy smile coming across Mercedes' face. Sam stepped forward and placed a gentle kiss on her knuckles. "Pleasure to meet you miss."

Mercedes let out a little giggle, and Rachel and Kurt shared a knowing look. Kurt grabbed Rachel's hand to lead them off. "I'll let you two get better acquainted." Their departure went unnoticed by the pair. Kurt and Rachel looked at each other, both started laughing once they were out of earshot.

They made their way further into the party, where waiters were walking around with plates of champagne flutes. Kurt grabbed one for each of them, handing Rachel hers as he looked around. Rachel gave an excited gasp as she spotted some of her friends. Kurt saw a flash of blonde hair and smiled. They both agreed that they would find the other before they left, then Kurt walked off.

He spotted Brittany and Santana across the room, holding hands. Kurt smiled to himself, not believing that he used to be so jealous of Santana. He got closer and tapped Brittany on the shoulder, then all but squealed, "Brit Brit!"

Brittany twirled around and screamed, drawing the attention of everyone around as she launched herself at Kurt. "Kurtie! I'm so glad you're here! Rachel said you might not come! I've missed you so much!"

Kurt was used to those kinds of reactions from Brit, so he easily caught her in a tight hug, laughing at her enthusiasm. He heard a camera go off somewhere nearby, but didn't care, he just missed his old best friend. They pulled apart and Kurt gave Santana a brief hug too. Brittany immediately launched into a story about how she convinced Santana to let her write a couple songs for their next album. Kurt was amused when Brittany told him the song she wrote was about their cat. He glanced at Santana who gave a tiny shrug of the shoulder then turned her attention back to Brittany, giving her a sweet smile.

The trio continued to catch up, retelling things that happened in their lives recently. Kurt told them he would get them tickets to his show while they were in town, and they promised to return the favor for tickets to their show the next time they performed here.

Quite suddenly, Brittany exclaimed that she had to go to the bathroom and dragged Santana away without a word to Kurt. Kurt was stunned by the sudden departure and blinked at the spot his two friends had just been standing. He was about to go search for Rachel, when someone put his hand on his shoulder.

"Kurt Hummel. My, my, what a surprise."

Kurt closed his eyes and willed the speaker to go away. When he had no choice but to turn around and face them, he did so slowly, making sure his bitchface was turned on full volume.

"Blaine Anderson. Wish I could say it's a pleasure."

Blaine let out a little laugh and dropped his hand from Kurt's shoulder. "Aww, now don't be like that Kurt. It's more than a pleasure to see you."

Kurt rolled his eyes. This wasn't the first time they had encountered each other since they were kids, and Kurt was sure it wouldn't be the last. His life was destined to forever be plagued by Blaine Anderson.

"Of course it's a pleasure to see me. Tell me Blaine, how is the closet treating you these days?" He said the last part quietly, so only Blaine would hear him. He was one of the few who knew Blaine's secret about being gay. Though Kurt thought Blaine was a coward for pretending to date supermodels, he would never out someone not matter how much he hated them.

Blaine glared for a moment, then put that stupid smile back on his face. "Out for blood tonight I see. Heard you just caught your boyfriend fucking someone else."

Kurt glared even harder. "And who the hell told you that?"

Blaine just laughed, and Kurt hated that he had actually gotten to him. Blaine smirked and took a sip of whatever drink was in his hand. "I have my sources."

Kurt just may be murdering his roommate tonight. "Not that it's any of your business." Kurt made to walk off, but Blaine grabbed him by the elbow. "Get your hand off me Anderson."

Blaine dropped his hand and bit his lip a little. "Look, I'm sorry Kurt. Really, I am. Break-ups are hard, and for the record, that guy's an idiot for letting someone like you get away."

From anybody else, Kurt may have taken that as a compliment, but seeing as this was coming from the most arrogant man on the planet, Kurt didn't take too much stock in the words. He was about to walk away again when someone with a camera popped up in front of him. "Blaine Anderson! And Kurt Hummel. Mind taking a photo for People magazine? Are you two long time friends? Blaine, have you been to see Kurt's show?"

Blaine, being used to this sort of thing, threw his arm around Kurt's shoulder and smiled. Kurt instantly put on his happy face, smiling like they were long lost friends once the camera was raised. He knew better than to look grumpy in pictures that would most definitely be published.

After the picture, Blaine started answering the reporter's question. "As a matter of fact, Kurt and I were in the Mickey Mouse Club together when we were kids. I haven't had the fortune to catch one of his shows yet, but maybe he'd be nice enough to hook me up with some tickets." Blaine sent Kurt a wink, and Kurt wanted nothing more than to roll his eyes and groan out loud. Instead he just smiled and kept his mouth shut.

The reporter left shortly after that, and Blaine turned to Kurt with a sly smile. "So, about those tickets?"

Kurt stared at him, then walked off without a word, hearing Blaine chuckle behind him. He searched the crowds for Rachel so he could let her know that he was leaving. He had far too much of Blaine for one evening, and it was still early enough that he could curl up on the couch with a sappy movie and a plate of brownies.

He spotted Rachel near one of the tall windows, talking to some of her friends. He swooped in and and pulled her aside.

"Rachel, we have to have a serious discussion about the best friend disclosure policy." He stared at her while she looked a bit guilty. "But that can be saved for later. I'm going home. I've had enough fun for one evening." Rachel looked like she was about to protest, so Kurt held up a hand. "No arguing. I came to see Brit and San, and I did, so now I'm leaving. Have fun Rach, see you at home later. Hopefully Finn shows up." He leaned down to kiss her on the cheek then walked away.

Kurt retrieved his coat and left the party, the sound dying out immediately once the elevator doors closed behind him. He didn't know what it was, but Blaine Anderson always made his blood boil more than anyone he had ever met. He had that stupid, cocky smile and he just thought he was the greatest thing to happen to earth. Not to mention he had the prettiest eyes that- No Kurt. No. Everything about Blaine was bad. And the fact that he could be a great role model for kids, but chose not to in favor of making more money, really pissed Kurt off.

Kurt stepped off the elevator seeing even more paparazzi outside, and he wished he wasn't leaving the party alone right now. With a heavy sigh, he pushed his way outside, smiling politely and rushing to the street to hail a cab. He saw a small group of teenage girls about half a block away and knew they were fans of Blaine's just by the obnoxious bow ties they all wore around their necks. I mean seriously, who names their album "Bow Ties and Beauties" anyways?

A few of the paparazzi recognized Kurt, and began asking him questions about the party upstairs. Kurt answered politely, and luckily a cab pulled up a few moments later. He said goodnight to the photographers, who were actually polite for once, and got into the cab. He sighed in relief as they took off, ready to spend the rest of his night being completely lazy and throwing himself a small pity party. He took comfort in knowing that his encounters with Blaine only came every four years or so, so hopefully it would be a long while before he saw that arrogant face again.

If only Kurt was so lucky.