Blaine watched Kurt talking to Colton in the hall after Warbler practice. That feeling of hate and rage filled him again. When Kurt walked away, his feet moved on their own accord to stand next to the redhead. Blaine was glad that in this instance he was taller than the other man, though not by much.

"Stop talking to the princess," he growled softly.

"Um, I'm not," Colton pointed out, his eyes big.

"I mean period, smartass. Do not talk to him anymore, do you understand me?" Blaine's eyes blazed with the intensity of his emotions.

Colton swallowed loudly, clutching his messenger bag closer to his body. "Why does it matter to you who I talk to. You don't own me," he said bravely.

"I don't give a flying fuck who you talk to as long as you keep the hell away from the princess. I will not warn you again. Next time, my fists will do the talking for me," Blaine threatened, taking a step toward Colton, who ducked back. He began walking away and froze when he heard Colton's muttered question.

"Why the hell does it matter?"

"Because the princess belongs to me," Blaine replied without meaning to. He put his head down and kept walking. He couldn't believe he'd just said that. Judging by the shocked look on Colton's face before he'd turned away, he was just as surprised. Shit.

. . . . .

"Colton, right? Are you okay?"

Colton turned and looked up and then up some more. "Um, yeah. Jason right? Kurt's roommate?"

Jason smiled. "Guilty. Hope he hasn't told too many lies about me. I saw you and Kurt having coffee yesterday. Anything special brewing?" He asked as they walked toward the dorms. He'd seen Blaine walking away from Colton and had a suspicion their conversation hadn't been about song choices. Kurt had mentioned Colton to him and how Blaine seemed to be giving him a hard time. There was no harm in seeing the kid to his dorm building.

Colton blushed. "I had hoped so, but he seems kind of oblivious to me. He treats me like a kid brother or something. But that's okay. I just think he's gorgeous and wouldn't have minded a date or something."

Jason paused outside Colton's building. He grinned at the much shorter man. "Yeah, Kurt's a looker alright. But I wouldn't worry. You're pretty damn hot yourself. Later, blue eyes," Jason said with a wink. Turning, he didn't see Colton freeze in place as a smile covered his pink face.

. . . . .

"Okay, guys, we were assigned the seventies, a rather sad decade for music. The more we can change up the song, the more points we get. Remember the winners get tickets to a Broadway show, so let's pick a great song and kick the other teams' asses!" Jeff said, shaking a fist in the air, his blonde hair shaking into his face.

"The seventies were not a sad decade; there were some awesome songs," Nick disagreed, reaching over to gently push the hair back behind Jeff's ear. "I was thinking about 'Black Water' by the Doobie Brothers. Funky band name, but the song is great."

Kurt grinned as his thoughts were confirmed. He'd had a suspicion those two were closer than teammates. And as Jeff gave Nick a special smile at his gesture, he knew they were in love.

"Um, I have an idea," Kurt interjected, hoping they wouldn't shoot him down immediately.

"Go ahead," Nick said, reaching between him and Jeff to take his hand, trying to be subtle and failing miserably.

"Well, I saw a couple of the other groups talking with the band members, so most or all of them are using accompaniment. What if we did 'Black Water' a capella? With all the rounds near the end of the song, it would sound pretty amazing," he suggested, a hesitant smile on his face.

Trent, the friendliest of all the Warbler's clapped him hard on the back. "Fantastic idea, Kurt! Hey Jon, you used to beat box at your high school, didn't you?"

The shy brunette nodded. "Yeah, I really enjoyed it."

Jeff slapped his knee. "Done! 'Black Water' a capella. Let's get down to some arrangements. Kurt, do you have some ideas on that?"

Kurt glowed under the question. Their group worked steadily for the next three hours, Kurt supplying ideas for choreography and division of lines. They were given two days to prepare for the decades contest. Each group was given one decade from the fifties through the nineties. They would be performing in decade order. He was just relieved that Blaine had been put in the sixties group. As long as he didn't have to work with him, the better. He didn't understand the man. He yelled at and insulted Kurt, then turned around and kissed him so sweetly. The first kiss had left him feeling used and dirty. The kiss from two days ago he wished had been his first kiss it was so tender and almost innocent. He still got tingles in his stomach at the thought of Blaine's lips on his. Since then, though, other than the occasional glare and confused stare, Blaine hadn't had any contact with him. Puck had even stopped guarding him during Warbler rehearsal because it appeared that the bullying had let up. Kurt hoped so. Classes would be starting in a little over a week and it would be nice to be able to relax and enjoy his college experience. As it was, he was attending his first party at the end of the week. The Holman House dorm was sponsoring the first party of the year. All the guys were in a frenzy as a neighboring college would be joining them and there were apparently a lot of girls. Kurt was glad he didn't have to worry about that, though he might be able to make some new friends. He got along fabulously with women. They always made better friends. No chance of any sexual tension or misconstrued emotions. That always made things awkward. After the final Warbler decade performance, he was meeting Jason, Puck, and Colton and they'd all walk over together. Colton had become a regular visitor to their room, practicing songs and helping Jason with his model cars. Those two were getting along very well. Kurt could tell Colton was developing feelings for Jason and it was almost time to have a talk with one of them. Jason wasn't holding back on his flirty comments and the glow Colton got every time Jason said something was a telltale sign of a crush. Kurt sighed. He didn't know either one of them well enough yet to butt in like that, but he didn't want to see their friendship end because of miscommunication.

Walking down the hall to his dorm room, he was running through his lines in the song. Jeff and Nick would be sharing the lead, but the sound of all their voices during the rounds was going to sound amazing. One more day of practice would give them the edge he was sure would win them the competition. He didn't see someone come out of the bathroom across the hall, until they stepped in front of him. Blaine looked wonderful in his tight faded jeans and black v-neck shirt. The black seemed to make his eyes glow and Kurt was staggered for a moment under the intensity of his gaze.

"Hey princess," Blaine said, his voice low, and damn sexy.

"Blaine," Kurt acknowledged, his chin tilting up at the insulting nickname. If Blaine would be nice and use that tone on him, Kurt could listen to him all day long. But not when he was being an ass. That thought led to thoughts of Blaine's ass, and he mentally shook himself. He needed to think around this guy, not daydream about his perfectly round, tight... shit!

"Hope you guys are gonna bring it for the decade contest," Blaine said.

Kurt stared at him. Were they attempting an actual conversation? "Um, yeah. We've got a great number picked out. What about you?"

"We're going to win. I mean, with me singing lead, how can we fail," His eyebrow tilted up arrogantly.

Kurt gave him a genuine smile. "We'll see about that."

Blaine looked at him funny and Kurt could swear Blaine was staring at his mouth. Nervously, Kurt wet his lips with a quick swipe of his tongue. This time there was no question. Blaine's golden eyes turned dark as he watched the motion. Kurt took in a shuddering breath. The tension between them was so thick, Kurt felt like he wouldn't be able to take a step if he tried. Blaine was able to move, however, and stepped closer to him until Kurt could smell his sweet orange scented breath against his cheek. Slowly, with an expression like wonder, Blaine reached out with a finger and traced Kurt's bottom lip. The calloused finger tip felt like a torch against his flesh. Kurt knew Blaine played the guitar and hadn't been able to watch him the last time he played during rehearsal because his body had become so inflamed, he would have embarrassed himself. Now, feeling that finger lightly touching him made Kurt harden in his tight jeans. Without realizing what he was going to do, he let the tip of his tongue reach out and dance along Blaine's finger. They both gasped at the sensation.

Blaine was stunned at the feeling of Kurt's tongue and lips. He was so soft and sweet smelling. Blaine had the sudden desire to wrap himself around Kurt, to take in as much of him as he could. Kurt's long lashes were fluttering over his excited blue eyes. Seeing the answering desire in those eyes made him lean in and replace his finger with his lips. Gently, he brushed their lips together, loving the feel of Kurt's full mouth. This time Kurt took the lead and swept his tongue along Blaine's lips until he opened his mouth. Their moans mingled in their mouths as they slowly explored each other with hot tongues and lips. Blaine had slowly been backing Kurt up until they were hidden in a doorway. When Kurt's back touched the wall, Blaine moved his mouth along Kurt's jaw line and down the smooth skin of his neck. Blaine had never been into necks particularly, but Kurt's was long and elegant, inviting him to nibble and lick his way down. When he ran into Kurt's collar, he made his way back up. Reaching the soft underside of Kurt's jaw, Blaine latched his lips around his skin. He felt Kurt's hands tangle in his hair, holding him closer, as he sucked and licked at the tender flesh. Knowing he had to stop before he threw Kurt over his shoulder and ran to his room, he quickly sealed his mouth back on Kurt's lips. He thrust his hot tongue into his mouth, holding Kurt's head still with his hands. Over and over he swept his tongue over Kurt's teeth, tongue, the roof of his mouth, trying to memorize his taste and smell. Finally, he broke away, resting his forehead against Kurt's chin as they took gasping breaths. Blaine didn't know if he'd be able to make it back to the dorm as hard as he was. A side trip to the restroom might be called for, especially while he was still able to taste Kurt on his tongue.

Moving his mouth to Kurt's ear, he whispered. "Go to the party with me."

Kurt stilled under him. Had Blaine just asked him out? His mind was such a fog of desire and emotion, he couldn't figure out how to answer. "Going. After Warbler's. Colton," was all he could get out. He knew there were other people going too, but he couldn't seem to make his brain cooperate with his well-kissed mouth.

Blaine tensed and moved back from him. Kurt couldn't help reaching out to try and pull him back. He looked at Blaine, trying to figure out what happened. Whatever happened, Blaine had left and the asshole was back. His eyes were cold and mean, his mouth twisted in a sneer.

"You actually thought I was asking you out, princess?" he laughed cruelly, bending over and smacking his knee. "I just wanted to see how far I could get you to go with a little kissing. Shit, like I'd want to be seen in public with your pasty face. Give me a break," he said, turning away, the sneer immediately dropping off his face.

"Yeah, like I'd want to hang out with someone who stinks like Craig's List!" Kurt yelled after him, filled with hurt and anger.

Blaine smiled grimly at Kurt's insult. It was a good comeback. He just wished it hadn't been called for.

Kurt slammed into his dorm room and grabbed his iPod.

"You okay, roomie?" Jason asked from his bed where he was reading.

"Fine. Gonna take a shower," Kurt bit out, heading to the bathroom and locking it behind him. He put his hands against the sink and stared at his reflection. Pasty was a good description of his face, he guessed, blinking back the tears burning his eyes. Tilting his chin up, he saw a small bruise under his jaw. His first hickey. A physical sign that he had been used, yet again. Reaching under the sink, he pulled out the small black box.

. . . . .

"We're changing the song and that's final," Blaine shouted in Thad's face. They'd been arguing for several minutes after Blaine announced the change in song choice. He knew this left them very little time to practice, but he knew this was what he had to do. Singing was always easier than talking.

. . . . .

Kurt shifted uncomfortably during the group singing a song from the fifties. He should've known it was too soon to wear the skinny jeans. His hips were aching, little patches of scabs pulling and pinching. Taking a deep breath, he welcomed the discomfort and rose above it, using it to his advantage. Blaine's group would sing next, then Kurt's. After everyone was done, he could go change into something more comfortable for the party.

Blaine and his group took their place on the stage in the auditorium they'd gotten use of for the performances. The band switched some of their instruments around, several horns coming out. Kurt loved the saxophone and was intrigued to hear what they would be singing. A bluesy melody began and Blaine took the mike, looking right into Kurt's eyes as he sang. Kurt could have been mistaken, but he was sitting off by himself and nobody else was near him. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw the other Warbler's glancing at him questioningly. Kurt suddenly felt like he had a neon arrow pointing at the hickey on his jaw, though he'd covered it up as best as he could. Blaine began singing, his soulful voice running over Kurt like a soothing river.

If you ever change your mind

About leaving, leaving me behind

Oh-oh, bring it to me

Bring your sweet loving

Bring it on home to me, yeah (yeah) yeah (yeah) yeah (yeah)

I know I laughed that day that you left

But now I know I only hurt myself

Oh-oh, bring it to me

Bring your sweet loving

Bring it on home to me, yeah (yeah) yeah (yeah) yeah (yeah)

As the horns took over, Blaine jumped off the stage and came up to Kurt, kneeling down next to him. Kurt knew his face was on fire, but the intense look on Blaine's face kept him transfixed.

You know I'll always be your slave

'Til I'm buried, buried in my grave

Oh honey, bring it to me

Bring your sweet loving

Bring it on home to me, yeah (yeah) yeah (yeah) yeah (yeah)

I say one more time, one more time

If you ever change your mind

About leaving, leaving me behind

Oh-oh, bring it to me

Bring your sweet loving

Bring it on home to me

Kurt was staring wide eyed at Blaine as he finished singing. Blaine actually looked timid as they looked at each other. Finally, Blaine stood, and offered Kurt his hand.

"You're up prin- Kurt," he said softly.

Kurt took his hand and stood, making his way to his teammates, feeling dizzy. What did it all mean? Was Blaine apologizing for last night? Damn him, why couldn't he just come out and say whatever the hell he meant? Kurt tried to push Blaine out of his hand as he and his group took to the stage. The watching Warbler's looked at them askance as the band members left the stage and took a seat in the audience. Kurt smiled inside, knowing that doing this a capella was going to give them an edge. Jon started them off and they all joined in after Jeff took the lead, creating magic out of the old Cajun lyrics.

Well, I built me a raft and she's ready for floatin'

Ol' Mississippi, she's callin' my name

Catfish are jumpin'

That paddle wheel thumpin'

Black water keeps rollin' on past just the same

Old black water, keep on rollin'

Mississippi moon, won't you keep on shinin' on me

Old black water, keep on rollin'

Mississippi moon, won't you keep on shinin' on me

Old black water, keep on rollin'

Mississippi moon, won't you keep on shinin' on me

Yeah, keep on shinin' your light

Gonna make everything, pretty mama

Gonna make everything all right

And I ain't got no worries

'Cause I ain't in no hurry at all

Well, if it rains, I don't care

Don't make no difference to me

Just take that street car thats goin' up town

Yeah, I'd like to hear some funky Dixieland

And dance a honky tonk

And I'll be buyin' ev'rybody drinks all 'roun'

As they repeated the rounds, Kurt could see the audience was impressed, clapping along and lifting arms in support. He knew there were still several more teams, but he had a feeling they had this in the bag.

. . . . .

After the final team performed and the team leaders consulted in another room, Kurt's team was announced the unanimous winner. As they were being congratulated, Kurt felt a warm hand rest on his waist. He knew who the hand belonged to. He didn't know if he was ready to deal with more of Blaine's crap, but he turned to him, keeping his expression even.

"You guys definitely deserved to win. Nick said going a capella was your idea, that was smart thinking," Blaine said sincerely.

"Thanks," Kurt said shortly. He'd fallen for Blaine's casual conversation before and was tired of being treated like garbage.

Blaine took his hand and gently pulled him a few feet away from the rest of the group. Puck stood by, a warning look on his face. Blaine held a hand up to him, his face asking for a moment.

"What do you want, Blaine? I want to celebrate with my team and get ready for the party," Kurt said, his tone revealing how tired he was.

"Look, Kurt. I know I fucked up last night. I was asking you out. When you said you were going with Colton, I got defensive and acted like a prick. I'm sorry. And if you aren't too pissed at me still, maybe you'll save me a dance at the party," Blaine said, looking down at his hands.

"I never said I was going with Colton. He is in the group of people I'm going with, but that's it," Kurt said, confused. Then he realized with how he'd said it the previous night, it had sounded like he was going with only Colton. "I, uh, wasn't exactly thinking clearly when you asked me," he said quietly.

Blaine looked up, his eyes bright. "Really?" he said, though he looked like he hadn't intended to let the word out.

"I'll save you a dance, Blaine. See you tonight," Kurt said with a small smile and walked to rejoin his teammates.