I'm so attracted to you
The feeling's mutual too
And I get scared the moment you leave
Get so hot I forget to breathe
-Infatuation by Maroon 5-

Blaine picked Kurt up at exactly 10 am and they headed to Zanesville. It had been five years since Kurt had seen O. Four years for Blaine. They were looking forward to their visit, but the quiet weight of unspoken realization weighed heavily on both of them. The only acknowledgment was a simple question by Kurt.

"How old do you think he is?"

Blaine shrugged. "Early eighties?"

Kurt looked out the window in silence.

They turned down O's driveway and were surprised to see a small red car parked in front of the house. Kurt noticed the dog was gone.

They sat there for a moment looking at the car.

"Should we go in?"

Blaine nodded. "He knew we were coming. He always knows when we're coming. If he didn't want whoever that is here, he would have sent them away."

They got out of the car and walked towards the house. Blaine took Kurt's hand and together they walked up the stairs and straight towards the door.

It opened automatically.

O was sitting on the couch dressed in his usual gray slacks, dress shirt and blue vest. He looked thinner than the last time Blaine had seen him. More frail. He had definitely aged over the past four years. Blaine ignored the quiet stirring in his chest.

There was a loud clattering sound as a woman standing by the couch dropped the tray she was holding. She stared at Kurt and Blaine, mouth open, a shocked expression on her face. O chuckled and smiled.

"Hello boys."

Blaine and Kurt sat down in front of O as the woman bent to pick up the tray, teacup, saucer and spoon she had dropped. She was muttering to no one in-particular.

"How did he know...don't understand it...insisting on getting dressed...we're having company today, Meggie...buy cupcakes from that fancy bakery...how on earth..." Items retrieved, the woman stood up and looked irritably at Kurt and Blaine.

"Boys, this is Meggie, my nurse. Meggie, bring out those cupcakes and two glasses of milk."

Meggie looked suspiciously at Kurt and Blaine.

"Exactly who are you?"

O waved his hand. "They're friends of mine. Bring in the cupcakes."

Meggie gave Kurt and Blaine a final questioning look before going to the kitchen.

O leaned forward and looked at both of them before turning to stare directly into Kurt's eyes. Kurt nervously reached for Blaine's hand, but he smiled and stared back. After a few moments O smiled and slowly nodded.

"How are you, Kurt?"

"I'm good. Really good."

O kept nodding. "Yes. You look good. Your enslavement is very strong."

O shifted his gaze to Blaine. Blaine suddenly felt vulnerable and exposed. His eyes darkened as he stared back. O frowned.

Something had happened to Blaine. Something dark and painful. O sat back. His voice was quiet. Curious, but concerned.

"Do you want to tell me?"

Blaine remained silent. After a minute, Kurt mentally spoke to him.

You should tell him.

Why?

He might know something.

Like what? What's to know?

I don't know. I just think you should tell him.

Blaine remained silent under O's concerned stare.

"You don't have to tell me, Blaine. I'm just glad you're alright. That you survived whatever happened."

Blaine suddenly spoke fast and angrily. "I was attacked. The darkness was stolen from me. Kurt got it back. He saved me."

O looked surprised. "But...how? How was it stolen?"

Blaine said nothing. O frowned and looked at Kurt. Guilt flooded Kurt's mind as sadness filled his heart.

"I-I...I left him. I went to Paris and...I didn't know. We didn't realize..." Kurt could feel tears forming in his eyes as the image of Blaine lying pale, weak and dying on the floor flashed in his brain. Blaine remained silent, staring at the floor.

O looked at Blaine, his voice laced with surprise and skepticism. "You allowed him to leave you?"

Blaine looked up angrily. "Yes. Yes I did. Love before the control, remember?"

O gave Blaine a stern look."Yes. Love before the control is always best."

Blaine felt furious. "Love before the control is what got me attacked!"

"Was it love that got you attacked or something else?"

Blaine said nothing. Okay. Fine. Maybe ego and lust played a role but still...

"Is the one who stole it dead?"

"Yes."

O sat back and nodded. So, delicate Kurt had risen to the challenge. Of course, Kurt didn't look delicate anymore. He looked strong and slightly darker.

"Good. You are a good slave, Kurt."

Blaine looked at Kurt. "He's an amazing slave. An amazing, beautiful slave. He's better than I deserve."

O smiled at the conviction in Blaine's voice. He loved his slave and had faith in him. This was good. Very good. But why on earth had Kurt left him?

Meggie came in carrying a plate of cupcakes and two glasses of milk. She sat them down on the small table in front of the couch. Blaine didn't hesitate to pick one and start eating. O was pleased.

"Meggie, why don't you head upstairs and take a break. The boys and I are going to visit for awhile."

Meggie looked at Kurt and Blaine as if she wasn't sure O would be safe with them. Kurt gave her a reassuring smile while Blaine glared at her. He was about to trap her and force her to leave when she turned and left.

O laughed. "Not necessary, Blaine. She's just protective."

Kurt studied how thin and frail O looked. Why did he have a nurse?

"How are you? Have you been ill?"

O waved away the question. "I'm fine." O looked at Blaine. "Are you a lawyer now?"

Blaine smiled for the first time since arriving. "No, not yet. I'm in law school."

As Kurt looked at O, he decided they'd better not waste time. It was obvious this would be their last visit. He swallowed the lump in his throat.

"Did Congressman Jim ever run into others like him? People who were...dark like him?"

Blaine shot Kurt an annoyed look, but he was curious.

O looked thoughtful. "Well...I do recall one fella. Harmon? Harris? Something like that. There may have been others, but he's the only one I met."

"Harrington?" Kurt supplied.

"Ah, yes. That was it. Harrington."

"Jason Harrington."

O looked at Blaine in surprise. "That's right. Jason Harrington of Virginia. Short man. Tough. A bit nasty. It was one of those Chamber of Commerce congressional visits. Wanted to talk manufacturing, I think. He and your grandfather recognized each other immediately so after the official meeting, he came back by himself and asked to speak to Jim privately. They talked for over 3 hours. I remember because I had to cancel the afternoon schedule when it became clear Jim wasn't going to end the meeting."

O narrowed his eyes, leaned forward and looked at Blaine.

"Is he the one that stole..."

"No. His grandson."

O sat back and looked at Kurt. He sounded surprised, yet impressed. "You killed Harrington's grandson?"

Kurt was appalled. "No! I didn't kill him! The darkness...it...it devoured him. Just like Congressman Jim."

O looked worried. "Is Harrington still alive? Does he know?"

Blaine looked up. "Yes, he's still alive. He's gotta know his grandson's dead. There was a funeral."

"Does he know you boys played a role in his grandson's death?"

"But we didn't! It wasn't our fault the darkness turned on him. He was greedy and the darkness punished him for it."

"Nevertheless, revenge is a favorite hobby among those with the darkness."

Shit.

Why hadn't Blaine thought of that? Revenge. Blaine loved revenge. Revenge tasted warm and sweet. It was delicious. If he loved the taste...Blaine looked at Kurt. Kurt was white with fear. Blaine grabbed his hands.

"Beautiful, it's okay. No one knows we were there. No one is going to come after us."

"How can you be so sure?"

"Trust me. We're fine. Jace's grandfather didn't even like him. I doubt he would seek revenge. Besides, it's been over five months. No one is looking for us. Don't worry." Blaine leaned over and softly kissed him. Kurt relaxed a little.

O watched this exchange with great fascination. The way they interacted with such love and affection. He could feel their passion for each other. Just like Jim and Tania and yet...they were two men. Gay men. A master and slave. So interesting...

"Are you married? I read somewhere that men are getting married in New York."

Kurt laughed and Blaine smiled, grateful for the change of subject. "June 8. We get married on June 8."

O shook his head in thoughtful confusion. It was all so strange. He just couldn't understand.

"Hey, do you remember a congressman from Pennsylvania named Huntel?" Blaine's voice was hopeful.

O smiled. "Of course. Steve Huntel."

Blaine grew excited. The smile on O's face had to be a good sign. "Was he friends with my grandfather?"

"Yes, there was definitely a friendship. Sort of. More of a hero worship. Steve adored Jim. He was one of the few people who knew about Jim's power and he was fascinated by it."

"Do you remember his son, Mike?"

"Sure. Used to come to Washington to visit his dad. Nice kid. Good manners."

Okay, this was good. Blaine smiled at Kurt. Kurt rolled his eyes. It would take more than a friendship between Mike's father and Blaine's grandfather to get him to trust Mike.

Blaine told O all about Mike Huntel, the firm and the partnership. O listened carefully, but kept glancing at Kurt. When Blaine was done, O addressed Kurt.

"What do you think of all this?"

"I don't trust him."

"Good. Your grandfather liked Steve Huntel, but he didn't trust him. Doesn't mean his son is the same, but...you should still be careful."

Blaine frowned. "Why didn't he trust him?"

"Steve wanted Jim to make him dark. To share his powers with him. Naturally that was impossible. Either you have it or you don't. He used to pester Jim to take a trip to New Orleans with him. Wanted to do research and see if there was a way to get the darkness placed in his son. It was crazy of course. Jim explained that it was a birthright, but Steve was persistent. Jim finally threatened him and he backed off but they remained friends. Strange fellow, Steve Huntel."

Kurt crossed his arms and gave Blaine a perfect bitch look. "Looks like the apple doesn't fall far from the tree."

"Mike's not trying to get the darkness in him. He just wants...me. A son with the darkness."

Kurt looked at Blaine as if he were crazy. Great. Now Blaine is referring to himself as Mike's son. Blaine's daddy issues were starting to get out of hand.

O's tone was serious. "Your power is your power, Blaine. No one can force you to use it unless you choose to, but be careful. Don't let yourself get manipulated into using it. Remember, don't get caught up in power and control. It will kill you." O hesitated for a moment. "Sounds like you've witnessed the truth of this." Blaine grimaced as he remembered the fire burning Jace. He was not going out like that. No fucking way.

O suddenly turned a harsh eye on Kurt. "You can't leave him, Kurt! You can't! Yes, he is powerful and strong, but every master is also inherently weak. The strength and power of the darkness makes him both strong and weak. His true strength lies within you. He will never admit it, but in several ways you are stronger than him."

Kurt didn't look at Blaine. He could just imagine the expression on Blaine's face. Blaine was practically growling.

"But I'm his master. He has to obey me."

"Yes, this is true. But you can't survive without him. The darkness understands this. Abuse him and the darkness will punish you, Blaine. Leave him, Kurt, and he will die."

Kurt looked at Blaine and gripped his hand. "I'll never leave him. Never."

Blaine looked at Kurt. "I won't abuse him. I'll never abuse him."

"Love, boys. Love is what makes it all work. Just love each other and you will be fine."

O sat back. He was tired. He closed his eyes.

"Describe the wedding to me, Kurt. Tell me what it will be like."

Kurt was surprised, but delighted. He started telling O all the details of the hall, the flowers, the music.

Blaine stood up and looked at the photos on the wall. His eyes landed on one of his grandfather and O when they were young. It was one of the few photos Blaine had seen where the resemblance between him and his grandfather was indisputable. Blaine thought his grandfather looked more handsome and stately than he did. He was taller and larger than Blaine, but their faces were the same. Their eyes were the same. Their powers...

Blaine turned to O, interrupting Kurt.

"Am I more powerful than him?"

"What?"

"Am I more powerful than my grandfather?"

O frowned. Should he be honest?

"Yes. You already have the same aura he had shortly before he died. His darkness grew strong because he kept releasing it. Yours...yours seems to be naturally strong." Blaine smiled causing O's frown to deepen.

"This is why you must be careful, Blaine. Please...please don't destroy yourself."

"I won't.

"I won't let him destroy himself. I promise."

O smiled. Yes, Kurt did seem capable. Blaine chose his...husband well.

Meggie walked in to the living room.

"Alright. Enough visiting. He needs to rest."

O waved his hand at her. "Rest for what? All I do is rest."

But Kurt could tell O was tired. He stood up and sat down next to him on the couch.

"Thank you. Thank you for everything." O smiled and patted Kurt's hand.

The faint stirring in Blaine's chest returned along with a wave of panic.

"This isn't our last visit. We'll come back again."

O looked at him fondly. "Yes it is, Blaine. My time here is done. I've had a good life and I've done all the things I promised to do."

Blaine was frantic. "But...but...we need you! I need you! You're my only link to him! I don't have anyone else!"

"You have Kurt. Kurt is all you need, Blaine. You will be fine. You know all the lessons to be learned from your grandfather's journey. You will be fine."

Blaine was about to protest when Kurt shot him a look and shook his head. Blaine slumped in his chair and stared at the floor.

Kurt gave O a gentle hug. When he pulled away, Kurt had tears in his eyes.

"Now, now, Kurt. None of that. I'm tired and ready to go. I have friends waiting for me."

Kurt stood up and looked at Blaine. Blaine looked glued to his seat. Kurt couldn't remember ever seeing Blaine look so sad. He reached for his hand.

"Come on, master. It's time to go."

Blaine stood up as Meggie helped O stand. Suddenly without warning, Blaine launched himself at O, wrapping his arms around his neck. Kurt was scared he would knock him over, but O stood firmly in place. He returned Blaine's embrace.

"It's all right, Blaine. You will be all right. Just love Kurt and don't get caught up in your power."

Blaine released him and nodded.

Meggie watched all this with great interest. Who were these people?

Kurt and Blaine watched O head up the stairs before turning to leave. Blaine took the last two cupcakes and they walked out the door.

The door automatically locked behind them.

X-X-X

That night in bed, Blaine and Kurt lay on their sides, spooning. Blaine's arms and legs were wrapped tightly around Kurt, trapping Kurt's back against his chest and making it impossible for him to move.

"Blaine, stop crushing me. I'm not going anywhere."

Blaine just tightened his grip and spoke softly.

"No, beautiful. You aren't going anywhere. Ever. I'll never let you go."

Kurt sighed and relaxed his body into Blaine's tight grasp. They lay in silence until Blaine spoke.

"Kurt...as you get ready to start your new job...there's something you should know."

Kurt froze as he felt Blaine's already boiling body temperature rise. Blaine's voice was dark and his breath hot against Kurt's neck.

"Remember back in high school when I told you I would kill for you?"

Kurt nodded. Yes, he remembered that conversation. It had been frightening, but had also turned him on. Even now, Kurt blushed. Something like that should not turn him on. Especially since he knew Blaine meant it and was capable of doing it.

"Good. Then you should understand something. I will kill any man who tries to take you from me. I'm done playing games. I should have killed Warren four years ago. Granted, it all worked out, but no one else will get a second chance. I'm not fucking around any more. Any man who tries to take you from me will meet his death. I just thought you should know."

Damn.

Kurt struggled within Blaine's grasp to turn around so he could see his face.

Shit.

Blaine's eyes were dark and serious. He looked slightly...diabolical.

Kurt's mind filled with images of Blaine blinking his eyes and murdering well-meaning male co-workers who made the mistake of having a friendly conversation with him.

"Blaine..."

"Don't argue with me, Kurt. Someone tries to take you from me, they die." Blaine closed his eyes and snuggled closer to Kurt.

Kurt was scared. He couldn't allow Blaine to run around killing people. He lay quietly thinking for a few minutes.

Just how good a slave was he?

Time to find out.

Kurt shifted and pressed his mouth against Blaine's neck, sucking lightly. Blaine hummed and tightened his hold on Kurt.

"Master?"

"Hmm?"

"Do you think I'm beautiful?"

Blaine's eyes flew open. His expression was immediately one of love and adoration.

"Oh, Kurt. How could you even ask me that? You are beautiful. You're the most beautiful man in the world. No one is more gorgeous than you." Blaine sounded slightly desperate for Kurt to believe him.

"Well...if I'm as beautiful as you say I am, it makes sense that others will be attracted to me."

Blaine's expression immediately turned dark along with his eyes. Kurt quickly continued.

"But, don't you trust me? Trust me to turn them away?"

"Yes, I trust you. But, I don't trust them."

Kurt shifted to lay on top of Blaine, holding himself up with his hands. He stared into Blaine's eyes. "You don't have to kill men who express an interest in me because I will tell them. I will tell them I'm your slave." Blaine's eyes widened slightly. Kurt licked the shell of Blaine's ear and whispered. "I will tell them I'm the slave of Blaine Anderson. He is my master. I belong to him, so they can't have me."

Blaine closed his eyes. He spoke haltingly. "You...you will...tell them you're my slave?"

Kurt started moving his lips along Blaine's neck and continued whispering in a low, sexy voice.

"Yes, I will tell them I'm your slave. I will show them my collar and tell them you...own...me." Kurt started slowly rubbing his body up and down Blaine's, their cocks rubbing against each other. Blaine groaned deeply. Kurt kept going.

"I'll tell them about you. How I am the slave to a dark and powerful man. I belong to Blaine Anderson."

Blaine moaned and dug his fingers into Kurt's hips, pulling him down to rub their cocks together harder.

Ohhh...

Kurt will tell other men that he is a slave.

Blaine's slave.

The words were going straight to his cock.

"Master, other men will never be a threat because I am your slave. I belong to you. Trust me to tell them and believe me, they will leave me alone."

Kurt started slowly working his way down to Blaine's chest. He licked and sucked Blaine's nipples before gently biting them. Blaine hissed and dug his fingers deeper into Kurt's skin. Kurt kept biting before moving back up to dip his body down hard, fiercely rubbing their cocks together. Blaine growled and flipped them over. Kurt stared up into his eyes.

"I will tell them. I will tell them I am your slave." Kurt spread his legs and watched Blaine's eyes fill with lust. "Make your slave happy. Promise me you won't kill those who want what is yours. They can't have me, so just let them suffer. Suffer in the knowledge that I am your slave and they will never, ever get to fuck me."

Ego, sex and Kurt.

Blaine's three greatest weaknesses.

"Promise me, master. Promise your slave you won't kill."

Blaine's head was dizzy with the idea of Kurt telling men he was his slave. It turned him on and fed his ego. This coupled with Kurt's purring and stroking of Blaine's cock...Blaine didn't have a chance.

Kurt spread his legs further, stared into Blaine's eyes and dug his nails into his back.

"Promise me, master. Promise me you won't kill." Kurt started to slowly scratch his nails across Blaine's back. Blaine hissed.

"I promise, beautiful. I promise. I won't kill."

Kurt smiled and dug his nails in deeper.

"That makes your slave happy. Now claim me. Mark me so they know I'm your property."

Blaine's cock was like steel. While they didn't have to be silent like at Kurt's house, they did have to be quiet. Kurt slammed his hand over his mouth to muffle the scream that rose in his throat when Blaine slid straight into him. Kurt's reaction reminded Blaine of where they were, so he moved slower but still at a punishing rhythm. His. His. His. This ass was his. Kurt was his. With every thrust forward Blaine would growl, "Mine." Kurt would respond, "Yours." They managed to remain quiet until Kurt dug his nails even deeper into Blaine's back, and purposely scratched him hard as Blaine came. Blaine screamed from the simultaneous sensations. He fell forward, burying his head in the crook of Kurt's neck and shoulder. Kurt held him tightly.

"Thank you for your promise, master."

Blaine murmured. "You'll tell them...my slave..."

"Yes. I'll tell them."

Blaine fell asleep.

Kurt carefully shifted Blaine off of him and caressed his cheek.

Master manipulation.

He hoped it worked.

Kurt's eyes drifted to the portrait of Congressman Jim. He quietly climbed out of bed and went to take a closer look. Just like the first time he'd stared at it, he could sense the congressman's power. His eyes were the same as Blaine's. He reached out to touch the frame and quickly pulled back. The frame was hot. How was that possible? He stared into the congressman's eyes until he started feeling slightly dizzy. He quickly backed away and turned to get into bed...

Take good care of him. He needs you.

Kurt froze and turned back towards the portrait. He looked at it for a moment before scurrying to bed.

x-x-x

The next morning, Elaine and Joel drove Kurt and Blaine to the airport. Elaine hugged Kurt longer than usual. When she pulled back, she smiled at him with tears in her eyes.

"Thank you. Thank you for loving him so much and for being what he needs."

Kurt was surprised, but he understood the meaning behind her words. He smiled. "We'll see you in June."

x-x-x

Kurt and Blaine rang in the New Year by going to various parties given by their friends. They partied hard in celebration, thrilled to see the most difficult year of their lives come to a close. As they kissed passionately at midnight, they renewed their pledges to each other.

"Kurt, beautiful, I promise to love you forever and ever and even after that. I will be a good master to you and I will always take care of you. Always."

"Blaine, I promise to love you forever and ever and even after that. I will be a good slave to you and I will always take care of you. Always. And I will never leave you. Never."

"Happy New Year!"

Kurt woke up bright and early on his first day of work. He was beyond excited. He took a long shower, moisturized, and sang songs from Evita as he prepared breakfast. Blaine watched Kurt dancing around the kitchen, actually the entire apartment, with a feeling of dread.

He. Hated. This.

Hated it.

Hated it.

Really hated it.

Blaine knew that after today, there would be no turning back. Kurt would never agree to stay home. Deep down inside, Blaine always knew Kurt would eventually go to work. After all, Kurt had been dreaming of his own design house for years. But Blaine had hoped that after everything that happened that summer, maybe...just maybe he could convince Kurt to stay home. Now he knew it would never happen.

"How do I look?"

Blaine looked up and swallowed. Kurt looked beautiful in a mauve, cape-like sweater with a black turtleneck, black pants and matching mauve boots. Why did he have to look so fucking good? And so fucking, fuckable?

"You look fabulous."

Kurt beamed. "Thank you. Are you ready to go? We can leave together."

"Yeah. I'm ready."

Blaine stood up and placed his hand on Kurt's chest.

"Who are you?"

"I am your slave."

"Who am I?"

"You are my master."

"Forever."

"Forever."

"I love you."

"I love you."

x-x-x

Kurt's friend Annette greeted him when he arrived. She showed him around and delivered him to his small cube. She had back-to-back meetings all day, but would find time to check in with him regarding his responsibilities and the projects he would be assigned to work on.

The moment she left, an attractive, young Black man sauntered over.

"Hi. I'm Alan Mitchell."

"Kurt Hummel."

"Nice to meet you."

Alan chatted while Kurt checked out the office supplies in the drawers and arranged his space. Alan eyed the silver picture frame Kurt set down on the desk.

"Boyfriend?"

"Fiancee. We're getting married in June."

"May I?"

"Sure."

Alan picked up the frame and studied the photo of Blaine.

"Hot. Very hot."

Kurt laughed. Yes. In more ways than one.

"So, if Annette's not back in time, do you wanna grab lunch with me?"

Kurt hesitated as Blaine's words echoed through his brain. I will kill any man who tries to take you from me. Kurt shook the thought from his mind. This was ridiculous. A co-worker asking him to lunch was not the same as someone trying to date him. He would not allow Blaine's obsessive, dark behavior to infect him.

"Sure. Thanks for the invitation."

By the end of the day, Kurt was feeling alive, excited and happy in a way he hadn't been in a long time. He liked the atmosphere and vibe of the company and everyone seemed nice and willing to help each other. Surprisingly, it felt less competitive than Paris. He couldn't wait to tell Blaine about his day. As he pulled his keys out to unlock the door, he froze. He could hear music coming from the loft. He checked his watch. Crap. How had Blaine beaten him home? Kurt braced himself and unlocked the door.

The kitchen table was set, complete with candles. There were boxes from Kurt's favorite Chinese restaurant on the table. Blaine's iPod was playing their favorite love songs, and Blaine was standing there holding a single lavender rose.

"Hi honey. How was your day?"

Kurt dropped his bag and ran into Blaine's arms.

"Oh, Blaine! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!"

Blaine held Kurt tight and inhaled his scent. So beautiful.

"So, sit down for dinner and tell me all about your day."

Kurt talked nonstop while Blaine listened. Kurt was positively glowing. As badly as Blaine wanted Kurt home, seeing the man he loved this happy, made Blaine happy. He wanted Kurt to always look as happy as he did that evening.

The months passed quickly. Kurt settled into working while Blaine continued to work harder than ever in law school. Mike was impressed with Blaine's dedication and talented mind. He was clearly born to be a lawyer. As Mike and Blaine continued to meet weekly, their father-son bond grew. Blaine found himself starting to ask Mike about things other than the law. As the wedding approached, Blaine asked Mike what it was like to be a husband. Would marriage change things between he and Kurt? They'd been together for almost seven years. Blaine had been responsible for Kurt since he was 17 years old. Would marriage change their relationship?

Mike was pleased that Blaine felt comfortable enough to talk to him, but he found Blaine's concerns about marriage amusing. And confusing.

"Um...Blaine...I'm rather out of my element here. I mean, for one you're gay and I'm not really sure how all that works. Second...Kurt is your...you know. I'm not sure any advice I'd give you would really apply to your unique situation. A wife is not a slave, and I have to believe that the relationship between two men is different than between a man and a woman. I'm just not sure what to tell you."

"Well...pretend I'm not gay. Pretend I'm marrying a woman. What would you tell me?"

"I'm not the best person to ask for marital advice. I'm divorced, remember?"

"Aw, come on. You're the only person..." Blaine stopped and looked at the floor. Weren't father's supposed to give their sons advice before their wedding day?

As if reading Blaine's thoughts, in that moment Mike made up his mind for good. He was replacing James Anderson. Completely. It may not be biological, but from now on Blaine Anderson was his son.

"Okay. I would tell you to make sure she...he is someone you truly love and to make sure you always operate from a position of love within your relationship." Mike stared off into space. "I loved Samantha's mother, but I'm not sure I always operated from a position of love. In the early days of our marriage I spent a lot of time away from home. I suppose I should have realized that she would get lonely and seek companionship elsewhere."

Blaine thought about Samantha's stories about her mother sleeping around and how Mike had given her everything she wanted in the divorce.

"No. I think you're wrong. I think you did operate from a position of love. Just too much love for someone who didn't deserve it. You have to be careful who you fall in love with."

Mike looked at Blaine, thoughtfully. "Does Kurt deserve your love?"

"That's not even a question. The real question is do I deserve his? I'm not easy to be with. The darkness is..." Blaine sighed. "It's a lot to deal with. I put Kurt through a lot. I demand a lot from him. Love would be easier with someone else, but Kurt...he's loved me from day one and I know he's the one for me. I think I've been in love with him since the moment I laid eyes on him in his father's shop. I was always honest with him about what I needed. What being with me would demand. And for some reason...he accepted everything and loved me back. I'm a lucky bastard."

"Then hold on to him, Blaine. Hold on to him and never let him go."

"That's my plan."

The second week of April, Kurt mailed the wedding invitations. As the RSVPs began to arrive, the reality of the wedding began to really set in. Blaine was pleased when his Warbler friends, Wes, David and Nick all responded yes. He was even more surprised when his tennis buddy, Pete agreed to attend. Kurt was thrilled when his glee club friend, Brittany called to say she was attending and bringing her new boyfriend along. Rachel was in the middle of filming a movie, but she was definitely coming, and Mercedes promised to be there as Kurt's grooms-maid. After much discussion, Kurt decided to have Mercedes and Warren walk down the aisle together, followed by him. Kurt wanted to make an entrance. Blaine had decided to ask Tyler to be his best man, much to Tyler's shock and delight. Between old friends, Parsons and NYU friends, new colleagues and family, the RSVP list quickly hit 80. The perfect size.

The night before the wedding, Kurt kicked Blaine out of the loft and sent him to a hotel. Blaine thought this was ridiculous.

"What do you mean I can't see you before the wedding?"

"It's tradition. It's bad luck for the bride and groom to see one another before the wedding ceremony."

"And which one of us is the bride?"

Kurt crossed his arms and gave him a beautiful bitch look. Blaine grinned. He loved that look, even if it meant Kurt was pissed. It was just so perfectly Kurt.

"Neither of us is the bride, but that doesn't mean we can't put a new twist on certain traditions."

"So, are you going to wear a garter belt for me to pull off with my teeth and throw to my friends at the reception?"

Kurt smirked at him. "Will you be throwing a bouquet?"

"No. I thought you might do that too."

"I'm not wearing a garter."

"Good. One less piece of clothing for me to remove."

That evening, Blaine's friends took him out to dinner and then to a nightclub. Despite Wes, David, Nick and Pete's willingness to indulge him, Blaine had voted against going to a gay club. He knew his friends would have more fun at a regular club. He laughed as they tried to pick up women. The situation was made more hilarious by the fact that women kept trying to talk to Blaine and Tyler. Pete was amazed. "Four handsome straight dudes and they want the two gays. Women."

Kurt, Warren, Lake and the girls actually went to a gay club and danced the night away until Lake, who was day of wedding coordinator, insisted they leave to get some sleep. That night, Kurt sat at his vanity and studied himself in the mirror. This time tomorrow he would be Blaine's husband. A slave and a husband. Wow. How did that happen? He fingered the collar around his neck and looked at his ring. Blaine didn't know it, but Kurt planned to give him a ring. Like Kurt's, it was a Lucida wedding band from Tiffany's, but it was 18K gold. A plain, simple gold band. Kurt felt the gold went better with Blaine's olive skin and he was sure Blaine would not wear diamonds. Blaine had offered to buy Kurt another ring to serve as the wedding band, but Kurt had refused. He was simply going to slip off the one he had and then have Blaine put it back on. He loved his ring and it was the only one he wanted.

As Kurt continued to stare at his reflection, his mind wandered to a conversation he'd had with Blaine back in high school. It had been after Blaine killed Phil, and they were sitting in Blaine's backyard. Kurt remembered Blaine kneeling in front of him, holding his hands and trapping him with his control.

"Kurt, I love you. I love you so fucking much it hurts. I've always asked you if you understand because...I need you to understand, Kurt. To really, really understand what I am saying to you. It's not bullshit. It's not teenage puppy love. I. Love. You. I will kill for you. I have killed for you. You are mine and that will never, ever change. I need to know that you really understand that, Kurt. I will marry you and take care of you forever."

Kurt remembered how he had stared into Blaine's eyes and thought hard about Blaine's words. In that moment he had asked himself if this was what he wanted. The crazy, scary, consuming, passionate, hot, dangerous, possessive love of a boy who could fuck him to pieces, control him with a single touch and apparently, lose his mind and murder those who threatened to hurt him. Did he want that? Could he live with that type of dangerous love? Back then he answered yes. Tomorrow he would answer yes again, but this time he fully understood what he was saying yes to. Despite everything, or perhaps in spite of everything, Kurt did not regret his decision. He had endured terror dealing with Jace, Blaine's sexual wrath, the anger of the darkness and had even given up Paris. All for this dark, strange, passionate man he could now, never live without. No, Kurt had no regrets.

As he settled into bed, Kurt smiled as it dawned on him that he almost had everything he wanted. A wonderful husband who adored him, friends, a fulfilling job, a life in New York City. All that was missing was his design house and he would have that in two years.

Kurt laughed out loud and hugged himself. Damn he was happy.

The morning of the wedding, Blaine stood naked in front of the hotel mirror. His skin was a deep, dark olive. He felt stronger than he had ever felt before in his life. The darkness within him flowed calmly and quietly, pulsing with heat and power. Blaine spoke to it.

"I marry Kurt today. Today everything becomes official."

It has always been official. It's been official since you claimed him. He's your slave.

"I know, but this makes it official to the world." Blaine paused and stared deep into his own eyes. He had made up his mind about something.

"When we get to Silver Creek...I'm going to seal our connection."

What?

"I'm going to seal our connection. It's my way of completing our bond."

But why? Why would you want to do this? You don't have to. You're such a weak master.

"Shut up. I am not. I'm powerful and I love Kurt just as powerfully. I want to do this. Not having it sealed feels like...a prenuptial agreement. He's my slave and my husband. I want to do this for him. He deserves it."

You are weak! So weak when it comes to him!

"Stop saying that! I am not weak!"

Yes you are. You've always allowed him to run around, given him choices, and now this. Why? You are powerful. You could have simply crushed him. Instead you allowed all of the nonsense of this summer to happen.

"I will never crush him. Never. I love Kurt because he's Kurt. If I had wanted someone totally submissive by nature, I would have chosen differently. Kurt has always been the one for me, and today he will become my husband. I'll seal the connection during our honeymoon."

The darkness swirled slowly before responding.

It will be painful. You have no choice in that. It is the nature of my existence.

Blaine continued staring into his own eyes.

"I know. I understand."

X-X-X-X-X

The wedding was a beautiful cream, red and black affair. Blaine loved Kurt's rationale for the colors. Cream represented Kurt. Not quite angelic white anymore, but still Blaine's heaven. Black represented the darkness within Blaine and the way his eyes changed colors. Red was for the darkness. Its fiery, hot heat. Kurt thought the darkness would like that. It did.

Their vows were simple because they couldn't publicly say what they really wanted to. Kurt wanted to pledge his forever obedience to his master. To promise to love, protect and stay with Blaine forever. To never leave his side and to always be available and willing to serve him, for to serve his master was his greatest desire and joy.

Blaine wanted to pledge his forever and undying love to his slave. To promise to worship, protect and cherish Kurt forever. To never abuse him, but to always care for and provide him with his every wish, need and desire, because his slave's happiness and safety was his most important responsibility and aspiration.

But in front of their family and friends they simply pledged their love and commitment to one another and promised to care for each other forever. Kurt was pleased that Blaine's eyes remained their normal honey-amber color, but when they kissed he could feel the heat of the darkness. Kurt smiled and whispered, "I love you too." He could sense the darkness dancing happily.

The reception was a great party. As the liquor flowed, inhibitions were lost and soon everyone was dancing. Blaine grinned as Mike danced with Elaine under the jealous glare of Joel. Later that evening, Joel cornered Blaine and told him he planned to ask Elaine to marry him when they returned to Ohio. Blaine told him to go for it. He wasn't sure his mother would say yes, but Joel had been more than patient. Blaine hoped his mother would agree. He liked Joel.

Blaine had invited Professor Murray. He'd been surprised and delighted to receive the invitation. During the reception, he sidled up to Mike.

"Looks like things have worked out quite well."

Mike frowned into his drink. He had never cared much for the professor. He'd only been a means to an end. Now that Mike had Blaine, he didn't want the professor around. He didn't trust him.

"Yes. I'm very happy for both of them. I'm sure they will have a great marriage."

The professor smirked. "Not what I'm talking about."

Mike decided to get this over with. "What do you want?"

"Well, I know our agreement was that I get ownership of the brownstone when Blaine officially joined the firm, but I'd like to move the date up."

"Fine. It's yours."

The professor was surprised. That had been easier than he'd expected. On to item two.

"Thank you. That's very kind of you. Speaking of kindness. Don't you think it would be kind if Blaine never knew about your obsession with him and our little deal? I'm not sure he would take well to knowing I handed him to you on a silver platter."

Mike looked at the professor and laughed. Was this worm trying to blackmail him?

"I tell ya what? You march right over there and tell Blaine about our deal. Tell him that thanks to you he's getting a partnership and eventually ownership in the best damn law firm on the east coast. While you're at it, tell him how you tried to blackmail me. Me. The one who's making all his dreams come true. I have a feeling he won't give a shit about how I found him."

Mike was right. Why should Blaine care? He always wanted to work for HWV. The professor glanced at Mike's smug expression. Damn it. He couldn't afford to have Mike as an enemy. He had seriously miscalculated.

"I guess you're right. Let's just call it a deal."

"Yes, let's. Now get the fuck out of my face before I change my mind and leave your sorry ass homeless."

Professor Murray scurried off.

X-X-X

That night at the hotel, Kurt was surprised when Blaine simply kissed him and held him close. Kurt had been expecting a night of love-making, but Blaine just wrapped his arms around him and quickly fell asleep. Kurt didn't mind because he was quite exhausted, but he was surprised.

When he woke up the next morning, he was shocked to see a fully dressed Blaine standing by the window. Blaine looked far away, deep in thought. Kurt closed his eyes and concentrated on the darkness. It was calm, but hot. Too hot for it to be so calm. What was going on?

"Blaine?"

Blaine turned and gave him a gorgeous smile. "Good morning, beautiful. Did you sleep well?"

"Yes. And you?"

"I slept great. You should probably get dressed. Our flight is in a few hours. Do you want breakfast?"

Kurt stared at him. No sex? What was going on?

"Is everything okay?"

Blaine walked over and sat down on the bed. He took Kurt's hand in his.

"Of course. Everything is wonderful, and in a few hours everything will be perfect. I'm really looking forward to Silver Creek." He leaned over and kissed Kurt softly.

"I'll take a shower and get dressed."

Blaine smiled, nodded and walked back to the window, returning to his deep thoughts.

Kurt watched him closely. Okay, so maybe Blaine was waiting for Silver Creek. Kurt smiled. They really were coming full circle. The first time he'd gone to Silver Creek, he'd been enslaved. Now he would return married. He liked the idea of returning to where it all began.

But why was Blaine so quiet?

And what on earth was he thinking about?