Blaine isn’t sure when it happened, but Eli has definitely become his friend. Having even just one person who seems to actually care what you have to say makes a difference, though Blaine is very cautious about revealing too much about his feelings or who he’s attracted to.

Eli is almost as much of an outsider as Blaine is, except Eli runs cross country so he talks to those guys and that’s who they sit with at lunch. Blaine thinks about joining the team next year, it’s already too late this season.

Eli comes over to Blaine’s after cross country one day. His parents are going to be out all night at one of his sister’s many gymnastics competitions.

They decide to watch a movie and when Blaine comes back to the couch, Eli catches his mouth in a soft, warm kiss.

“I’m sorry!” Blaine yelps as he pulls back in shock.

“Why are you sorry?” Eli asks, with a smile teasing his lips. “I’m the one that kissed you.”

“I, I know. But I’m gay,” Blaine says.

“I know dude. That’s why I kissed you.”

Blaine can’t help but laugh as he relaxes into the couch cushions.