"I'm sorry, Mr. Anderson, Mr. Hummel is not accepting any visitors right now. Can I leave another message for you?" the receptionist asked.

"No, thanks. Did he get the envelope I left for him?"

The woman assured him that Kurt had picked it up the previous evening. Blaine nodded abruptly and walked out of the building.

Kurt hadn't been taking any of his calls or letting him up to visit. A short time ago, he would have forced his way up there and insisted on being let in. Now, though, he knew he was the one who fucked up. He loved Kurt too much to try and force a reconciliation on him. But, damn, this hurt. It hurt not waking up to Kurt's soft face and rumpled hair. It ached when he couldn't wrap himself around Kurt's body at night. It had been almost a week since they'd been back. The longest week of his pathetic life. School started back tomorrow. He'd see Kurt today, though, at Warbler practice. At least he hoped he did. Just being able to lay eyes on him would ease something in him. This ache in his heart was overwhelming and he found himself rubbing at his chest often throughout the days and nights. The first two days after the break up, he'd been completely useless to the world. He'd curled up in the lumpy bed at the hotel and sobbed, crying for Kurt, begging the air to bring Kurt back to him. He'd cursed himself for being impulsive and stupid. Wes had brought him food and he'd managed a bite or two before he'd begun crying again, surprising the stoic Warbler. Talk about awkward. The second day, though, Colton and Jason had stopped by. They'd gone to see Kurt as he'd asked them to. It felt like a knife in his stomach when they said he hadn't slept in nearly three days. Blaine had at least been able to sleep, not well, but he had. To know he was making his love physically suffer made the tears start up again. Pride be damned, he didn't care who saw him cry at this point. Jason and Colton had sat on either side of him and rubbed his back sympathetically.

"He still loves you," Colton said quietly.

"How do you know?" Blaine asked. "He hates me and he has every right to."

"Nah, he still loves you," Jason disagrees. "He wouldn't be hurting so bad if he didn't love you."

"You know what you need to do," Colton said.

"What?" Blaine said, raising his head and looking at Colton, his golden eyes red and surrounded by spiky black lashes.

"You need to win him back," Colton said simply. "Remind him why he fell in love with you in the first place.

"But he's so mad at me," Blaine started.

"I know he's mad at you. So do something to work toward fixing whatever it was you did. But meanwhile, woo the shit out of him, so you can show him you've changed," Colton told him.

"Have you thought about singing to him?" Jason asked.

"Yeah," Blaine said with a watery smile. "I already have one planned for today. What if he walks out and won't listen?"

"Leave that to us," Colton said, grinning.

"Yeah, we'll make sure he sticks around for the whole show," Jason agreed. "I'm on the lighting team now, so I'll be there for the rehearsals."

"Why do you guys want to help me?" Blaine asked, admittedly feeling less miserable.

"You guys belong together," Jason shrugged. Colton nodded.

"Thanks guys," Blaine said and surprised them by hugging them before they left.

. . . . .

"Kurt," Jason called, waving to the pale man as he came into the auditorium. Kurt looked at him gratefully and came to sit down between him and Colton. He'd made sure he was barely on time so he didn't have to get sucked into any uncomfortable conversations with people. He didn't know how many people knew he and Blaine were broken up, but he didn't feel like dealing with questions and curious looks.

"Welcome back everybody," Mr. Schue said. "We had a great time at the Expo but now it's time to buckle down. We have our first competition in a few weeks, so we need to start nailing down songs, solos, and choreography. Ideas are always welcome, so the floor will be open."

"Mr. Schue, I have a song idea," Blaine said, standing.

Mr. Schue held out his hand. "That's great and we'll get to that in a moment. First, we have a potential new member. Everyone say hello to Sam Evans," he said, motioning to a young man who came up to stand next to him. He was of average height with light blond hair that fell across his forehead. He had bright green eyes that stood out against his slightly tanned skin. He had a wide, full lipped mouth that was pulled up into a shy smile. Kurt thought he was staring at him and looked around to see who was sitting near them. But turning back, he saw those green eyes looking at him, his smile growing from shy to flirty.

"Hi everyone. I'm, uh, Sam. I'm from Kentucky. I've been at Dalton since the first of the year, but didn't hear about the Warbler's until recently. I, uh, love to sing and hope you guys will consider me for a member," he said in a pleasant, slightly accented voice.

Everyone clapped lightly. Blaine didn't clap. He'd been watching the blond staring at someone and turned to see Kurt looking surprised. New guy had his eyes on Kurt and the blush on Kurt's face showed he realized what was going on.

"Do you have an audition song picked out," Mr. Schue asked.

"Yeah. I'd planned one, but now," Sam said, staring pointedly at Kurt. "I think I'll sing a different song. It's an Elton John classic."

He went up to the stage and grabbed a guitar, strumming it experimentally. Satisfied, he began the opening notes of the song.

Blaine seethed inside and prayed the kid had no talent whatsoever. He groaned mentally as the kid began singing, his voice a rich baritone. Shit.

Blue eyes

Baby's got blue eyes

Like a deep blue sea

On a blue, blue day

Blue eyes

Baby's got blue eyes

When the morning comes

I'll be far away

And I say

Since Kurt was sitting in the center, it was easy to tell who Sam was singing to. Kurt's face was bright red and he got some friendly jabs from the guys sitting around him. Kurt looked to where Blaine was sitting and saw his jaw clenched tightly, his hands in fists. Suddenly, he feared for the new kid. Hopefully, Blaine wouldn't do anything rash.

Blue eyes

Holding back the tears

Holding back the pain

Baby's got blue eyes

And she's alone again

Blue eyes

Baby's got blue eyes

Like a clear blue sky

Watching over me

Blue eyes

I love blue eyes

When I'm by her side

Where I long to be

I will see

Blue eyes laughing in the sun

Laughing in the rain

Baby's got blue eyes

And I am home, and I am home again

Sam stood as he finished the song, winking at Kurt as he put the guitar away. The room filled with applause.

Mr. Schue came up the steps and clapped Sam on the back. "Do we even need to put it to a vote? All those in favor of Sam joining us, a hand up please?"

Every hand rose except Blaine's. Colton and Jason looked at each other in alarm. They'd caught the looks and the winks and Blaine's reaction. This wasn't part of their plan.

"Welcome to the Warbler's, Sam. Why don't you take a seat. Blaine, you said you had a song?"

"Yeah," Blaine said and leapt onto the stage in one lithe jump. He handed the band some music and after talking through some of it with them, he went to the microphone.

Kurt made to stand up, but paused at the hand on his arm.

"Just listen, Kurt," Colton said softly.

Kurt sat back down with a huff and looked up at Blaine. Kurt had watched him jump on stage. Blaine knew he had a thing for his acrobatics and how he enjoyed jumping on furniture. Now the song. He didn't want to look at him as he sang, but he couldn't tear his eyes away from Blaine's hypnotic gaze.

Just one more moment, that's all that's needed.

Like wounded soldiers in need of healing.

Time to be honest, this time I'm pleading

Please don't dwell on it, cause I didn't mean it.

I can't believe I said I'd lay our love on the ground

But it doesn't matter cause I've made it up forgive me now

Every day I spend away my soul's inside out

Gotta be some way that I can make it up to you now, somehow.

By now you'd know that I'd come for you

No one but you, yes I'd come for you

But only if you told me to

And I'd fight for you

I'd lie, it's true

Give my life for you

You know I'd always come for you.

Kurt couldn't stop the tears from escaping his eyes. It was all true. Blaine had fought for him, lied for him, and he knew Blaine would easily give his life for him. But was it enough to look past what he'd done?

I was blindfolded, but now I'm seeing

My mind was closing, now I'm believing

I finally know just what it means to let someone in

To see the side of me that no one does or ever will

So if you're ever lost and find yourself all alone

I'd search forever just to bring you home,

Here and now this I vow.

By now you'd know that I'd come for you

No one but you, yes I'd come for you

But only if you told me to

And I'd fight for you

I'd lie, it's true

Give my life for you

You know I'd always come for you

You know I'd always come for you.

Blaine's golden eyes turned fierce as he looked around the room, watching Sam as he once again stared at Kurt. He growled through the lines before turning his gaze back to Kurt.

No matter what gets in my way

As long as there's still life in me

No matter what, remember you know I'll always come for you.

Yes I'd come for you, no one but you,

Yes I'd come for you

But only if you told me to.

And I'd fight for you

I'd lie, it's true

Give my life for you

You know I'd always come for you.

No matter what gets in my way

As long as there's still life in me

No matter what, remember you know I'll always come for you

I'd crawl across this world for you

Do anything you want me to

No matter what, remember you know I'll always come for you

You know I'll always come for you.

Blaine finished the song and hopped off the stage, returning to his seat. He didn't turn to look at Kurt, but silently hoped he'd heard the message of the song. Now he went back to figuring out what he was going to do to keep Sam away from Kurt. There was no doubting the blonde's intentions.

After practice, he came up next to the kid as he accepted congratulations and welcomes from the other members.

When it was just the two of them, he whispered threateningly in his ear. "He's mine. Stay the hell away from him."

Sam looked at him, his eyebrow up. "Didn't look like he's yours. Looked like he was sitting about as far away from you as he could."

Aware Kurt was still in the room and no doubt watching his actions, Blaine took a deep breath. "We're going through a rough patch. But have no doubt, he is mine. Is that clear?"

Sam snorted and grinned. "There's no ring on his finger. As far as I'm concerned, that makes him free and clear."

How did he know about the ring? Wait, no ring? Blaine turned to see Kurt walking out of the room. At the last moment, he waved to someone and there it was, his left hand, minus one ring. He felt like he'd been kicked in the stomach. Kurt had taken his ring off? Was it really over? While he was distracted by his heart shattering into a million pieces, Sam had grabbed his bag and run out the door.

Blaine was still standing there several minutes later when Jason walked up to him.

"You okay, man?"

"He took the ring off," Blaine mumbled, his tone shocked.

"I think it's cuz he's confused right now. Don't worry about it. I know he still loves you. And don't worry about that Sam kid. I'll make sure he stays away from your boy," Jason said, patting Blaine on the shoulder.

Blaine looked up at him gratefully. "You're a good friend, Jason."

Jason looked surprised. "Thanks. You are too. I'm glad we've had the chance to get to know each other."

"Me too. Is there any chance you are in the mood for a cup of coffee," Blaine asked, not quite ready to head back to the lonely hotel.

"Sounds good," he said.

It wasn't such a good idea after all. They walked into the café and immediately saw a group of Warbler's including Kurt and Sam sitting in the corner, laughing at some joke. Blaine didn't miss that Sam was sitting next to Kurt, leaning toward him so their shoulders almost brushed.

"I, uh, I gotta go," Blaine said in a rush. He was well aware of his temper and knew if he didn't leave right now, he'd be putting the blonde's head through the window. His fists tightened and he knew he was about to lose it. Turning he ran out the door, not caring that it banged loudly against the opposite wall.

Kurt turned and saw the door closing. He wondered what was up, but hadn't seen whatever had happened. He saw Jason standing there and smiled, waving him over. Jason held up a finger and got in line to make his order.

"You're beautiful," Sam said, turning to him, smiling.

"Um, thanks," Kurt said, blushing.

"I love your eyes. They remind me of the ocean, all blues and grays and greens. That song I sang was for you, you know," Sam grinned, his green eyes twinkling.

"You don't even know me," Kurt said, disbelieving.

"Not yet. But I know what I like. You are gorgeous and I like that," he replied with a wink.

Kurt colored even more. He was used to Blaine complimenting him, but not other people. Before Blaine he'd been invisible to everyone except bullies. This was weird. And uncomfortable.

He was about to say something when he saw Jason come over and stand behind Sam. "Move over," Jason said.

"Dude, there's a chair right there," Sam retorted.

Jason used every last one of his inches to loom over Sam threateningly. "But I want to sit here. Move over."

"Jesus. Fine," Sam muttered and moved to the empty chair.

Jason sat down and threw his arm around Kurt. "Hey Kurt, how are you?"

"I'm okay. Could you be anymore caveman?" Kurt chuckled.

"Well, I think this guy needs to know you aren't available," Jason said loudly.

Kurt grimaced. "Jason, please, not now." He couldn't handle thinking about Blaine. He was still aching from the song he'd sung. It was taking all of his strength to not hunt him down and beg to be taken back.

"Despite you two not getting along right now, you are still taken," Jason continued in a volume meant to carry. "Or are you saying you are available to date?" Jason asked quietly, a dare in his tone.

"No, of course I don't want to date," Kurt said. "I love Blaine."

Jason turned to face Sam. "Hear that?"

"Yeah, but he's not with Blaine right now, is he? Maybe Blaine could live with some competition. Make him realize he shouldn't be so eager to throw away someone so wonderful," Sam said. He stood and winked at Kurt before making his way to the door. "See you tomorrow, Kurt."

Kurt let his head fall on the table. "I do not need this," he moaned.

"Don't worry, Kurt. We'll keep the evil blonde man away from you," Jason reassured him, rubbing his back.

"He's not evil. He's nice," Kurt said from the table. "If this was any other circumstance, I might try to be his friend. Why does he have to be interested in me?"

"Because you're irresistible," Jason teased.

"You resisted me," Kurt said, sitting up with a smile.

"That's because I only go for short, redheads," Jason said, wiggling his eyebrows.

. . . . .

Blaine answered the call, his stomach twisting. "What happened?"

"Your dad is in the hospital. He was followed and beaten up pretty bad. Some broken ribs, nose, bruises everywhere. He'll be fine. But it was clearly a message. You might want to take some extra precautions," the familiar voice said.

"Shit. Is my mom okay?" Blaine closed his eyes. His dad was bad enough, but if his mom...

"Yeah. We're pretty close to the mole, we have it narrowed down. Once that is taken care of, we should be in the clear," he said. "We did have to explain things to your father. He took the news pretty well, considering."

Blaine was relieved. He knew his father was tough enough to not only understand why this was happening, but to live through an attack.

"Alright. Make sure my guest has a tail at all times. Keep me updated."

"Will do, boss man," he said and hung up.

. . . . .

Kurt was in the café again, having coffee when he heard the chair next to him pull out.

"Hey Kurt," Sam said cheerfully.

Kurt closed his eyes. "It's really not a good time, Sam."

"Aw, come on. I won't bite. I want to be friends. I promise, no hitting on you," Sam said with a grin.

Kurt glanced at him and saw the sincere light in his eyes. "Fine. The first compliment I hear, you're out the door," he said, smiling.

"Done," Sam said, holding his hand up. "What are you studying?"

"Art History. Utterly boring right now, but usually my favorite topic," Kurt said.

"I personally can't stand any part of history, so I sympathize. What's your major?" Sam asked, sipping his coffee.

"Fashion Design and Merchandising. What about you?" Kurt asked, finding he was truly curious.

"Architecture. It's funny. You want to design clothes and I want to design buildings," Sam grinned.

"That is funny. Maybe someday you'll design the building where I design my clothes," Kurt said, returning the smile.

They talked amicably for the next two hours. Kurt was surprised at how much they had in common. Sam had worked as a mechanic for a few years growing up, like Kurt had. They shared an interest in classic cars and their taste in music was similar. Sam enjoyed Broadway classics as much as Kurt did and they spent a while debating different actors in different Broadway roles. Kurt was surprised to find himself having a truly good time. It was the first time he'd truly relaxed since he'd gotten back from California.

They were gathering up their books and putting coats on when Sam suddenly grinned at him, a wicked sparkle in his eyes.

"Since I'm leaving anyway," he began and started walking toward the door. "You have the most beautiful eyes I've ever seen. And your lips... well, I don't have time to go on about those right now. Just know I'll be thinking about them until we see each other again." With that, he winked and slipped out the door.

Kurt couldn't help but laugh. Sam really was a great guy and had the potential to be a good friend. But that's where the potential ended. There was no spark there. There was no spark in Kurt's life at all, unless it had to do with Blaine. Blaine. God, he missed him. He was throwing himself into anything and everything he could to avoid thinking about him. But going back to the apartment each night only served to make him miss him even more.

. . . . .

"I thought you were going to keep him away from Kurt?" Blaine demanded, glaring at Jason. "They've had coffee every single day for the last week!"

Jason held his hands up. "Hey, man, I'm doing my best. They've become friends and it seems to be doing Kurt some good. I've been keeping an ear and eye out and honestly, all they do is talk. I never hear Sam flirt or do anything that deserves a beat down."
Blaine looked at him doubtfully. "How could he be around Kurt and not flirt with him. I'm not stupid."

Jason raised an eyebrow.

Rubbing his face with a groan. "Fine, I'm stupid. I just miss him. And to know he's been spending time with someone else every day. It's killing me."

"I know, but don't give up hope. Maybe it's time for another song?" Jason asked.

"Probably. I've been throwing around some ideas," Blaine muttered. "I don't know. Could a song be enough to bring two people back together?"

"There's only one way to find out," Jason suggested.

. . . . .

Kurt and Sam had started sitting next to each other during Warbler rehearsal. The group was still trying to nail down songs for the competition and people were up singing different songs to see if there was any interest.

Kurt stiffened when Blaine took the stage. Sam looked at him, but didn't say anything. Blaine picked up his guitar and slung it around his shoulders. He began strumming, looking at Kurt with a twinkle in his eyes. He knew it drove Kurt wild when he got to watch him play. Kurt quickly crossed his legs, refusing to think of how long it had been since they'd been together.

I hate where I'm at

Acting crazy like that

I know that I've been wrong

It's something I've been working on

And I don't know what to do

It's changing me it's killing you

I'd tear out my insides if I could

But I don't know if it'd do me good

I'm sorry friends I'm sorry lovers

To put us all in this mess

I know we still got each other

But I'm in distress

Cause every time that I feel like I've figured it out

I can't seem to figure it in

It's got nothing to do with me

It's not even you, you see

It's part of my chemistry

It's this jealousy

In absolutely no position

To be so needlessly unkind

When I'm the one writing this fiction

Make it real in my mind

It drives me crazy in the morning

Who is this monster in the mirror

I try to get the steam to fog it out

But I just can't get it clear

Oh and I can't stand what I'm feeling

It's just like poison in my veins

I know that I'm speaking

But I don't know what I'm saying

Cause every time that I feel like the world just got lighter

It seems like my muscles give out

It's got nothing to do with me

It's not even you, you see

It's part of my chemistry

It's this jealousy

Blaine continued staring at Kurt, smiling and winking. Kurt's body was reacting to his voice, and those fingers as they played over the guitar strings.

And I'm hearing your voice

Babe, you know it's your choice

Maybe so

And I know it's no use

But it's the only excuse

That I know, know, know

Let me go

Let me go

Oh let me go

Oh let me go

Now let's be real I feel just like a child

Someone could be taking all my toys

So call me dumb, call me wild

See that's the thing with little boys

Kurt was nodding with a grin at the 'dumb' line. Blaine bit his lip to hold off a laugh.

Oh now I can't get it out in the shower

Or drink it off at the bar

This sugar's gone sour

And it's gone way too far

Cause every time that I feel like I'm riding so high,

Feel on top of the world

The bitch just keeps telling me no

Kurt's eyebrow went up in the air. Blaine waved his hand madly, trying to make sure Kurt know it was just another line to the song. They both grinned.

It's got nothing to do with me

It's not even you, you see

It's part of my chemistry

This demon is killing me

And oh Christ it's filling me

It's this jealousy

Oh, and I just can't believe

In this jealousy,

This jealousy for you

Oh this jealousy,

This jealousy for you

Blaine strummed the guitar quickly and ended the song to applause. He looked at Kurt with a smile as he clapped for Blaine. Kurt grinned back, shaking his head. Sam looked sideways at Kurt, seeing the love and amusement shining on his face. Damn, looked like Kurt really was wild over this guy, Sam thought. Oh well, he could still be a friend. And maybe flirting would help the idiot on the stage to get his head out of his ass.