Chapter 16

"Done!"

Tristan looked up from his iPad. Kurt was smiling triumphantly.

"With what?"

"The appeal paperwork for Blaine. I was determined to finish it and I did! I found every single ridiculous document they requested, and filled in all 215 questions, in-depth. I bet I'm the only master in history to complete everything. I got written statements from everyone, Blaine's work history, medical files, school transcripts, my work history and files, the five additional support letters, and every other stupid piece of information they asked for. I'm going to hand deliver everything to the district office in the morning, and email copies to every ministry official whose email address I can find. Plus, my dad is going to give copies to the congressmen who work with the ministry and anyone else we think can help. I'm going to get Blaine back!"

Tristan watched Kurt grinning proudly at his computer screen, his eyes dancing with excitement and determination. Tristan couldn't help feeling extremely jealous.

"Um...Kurt...you know...it's been four months. What if Blaine is happy?"

"What do you mean?"

"I mean, what if he's happy where he's at? You know, slaves...we have an innate ability to adjust and adapt. It's natural and necessary in order for us to be happy and do whatever our masters want. If someone has claimed Blaine and they're taking care of him, he's probably happy. Maybe you should leave him where he's at."

Kurt looked like someone had slapped him. He shook his head. "No. No one can care for Blaine the way I can. No one knows him better than me. Blaine is special. His submission is special. He has to be dominated and cared for in a certain way. He needs routine and showers, and his clothes chosen for him, and nurturing time and he needs to top sometimes in order to stay above his submission and just...no. No one can take care of him like me. He's my slave. I trained him. I built his world based on my needs and his. He needs me."

"But slaves can adjust, Kurt. He needed those things because that's what you needed and demanded as his master. He followed your desires. He will adjust to whoever he's with."

"No! That's not true. You don't know him, Tristan. Blaine isn't like other slaves. His submission is powerful and stronger than most slaves. Yes, he'll submit, but his submission...his submission is like an ocean. It drowns him. It leaves him weak, vulnerable and lost. His submission imprisons him. He wants to be and needs to be completely dominated, but then it has to be balanced out with love, nurturing, encouragement, and permission to strengthen and rise above his submission. No one can care for Blaine like me. No one."

"Most masters don't want their slaves to rise above their submission."

Kurt held his head higher and the determination in his eyes grew fiercer. "All the more reason why Blaine needs me."

Tristan nodded and went back to staring at Sebastian's facebook page. Sebastian hadn't updated in months. What was he doing?

Kurt turned back to his computer and stared at the Ministry's website. Now his mind was mind full of apprehension and worry. Was it really possible that Blaine was happy? Kurt always assumed Blaine hadn't called him because he wasn't allowed to. Maybe he hadn't called because he didn't want to. Maybe he didn't really need Kurt. Maybe he could thrive under someone else. Kurt turned towards Tristan.

"Could you be happy with another master? I mean really, truly happy?"

Tristan felt torn. Honestly? He could settle for another master, if that master was Kurt, but his heart...his heart still belonged to Sebastian and deep down he knew he was wrong about Blaine. Wherever Blaine was, he was definitely longing for Kurt just like Tristan longed for Sebastian. He wasn't willing to admit this to Kurt. Instead he stood up and walked over to Kurt. He reached down and took his hand.

"I could be happy with you."

Kurt shook his head. "But you would never really be happy because you still love your master, right?"

Tristan sighed. He couldn't lie. He nodded sadly. Kurt stood up and wrapped his arms around him. "Don't worry, Tristan. I'm sure he'll come to his senses and call you. I really believe he must have had a good reason for what he did. Masters don't just unclaim slaves on a whim."

Tristan closed his eyes and inhaled Kurt's scent while his body relaxed in Kurt's embrace. Kurt was so good to him. Maybe it was time to tell him the truth. He hated having a secret. What harm could it do? High school was a long time ago.

Tristan pulled back. "Um...Kurt...there's something I need to tell you."

There was a loud banging on the door.

"Kurt! Open up, it's Noah."

Kurt looked at Tristan in alarm. He didn't want anyone to know about Tristan. Tristan nodded and whispered. "I'll hide in the bedroom."

"Coming!" Kurt walked to the door feeling like a cheating husband hiding his mistress from his mother-in-law. Guilt. Guilt. Guilt. He opened the door.

"Why didn't you call? And how did you get in?"

Noah lightly laughed. "Please. I never use the front door."

Noah walked in carrying a duffel bag which he dropped on the floor. Kurt looked at him closely. He had a bruise under his left eye and on his right cheek, plus a few fresh scratches on his neck.

"Were you in a fight?"

"Yeah, but I'm fine. I think I know where your boy is."

Kurt's heart stopped and then tried to jump from his chest.

"Where?"

"Didn't you tell me a story about someone named Smythe?"

Kurt's mouth dropped open. "Uh...yeah?" Kurt's heart started beating too fast as his chest tightened.

"Michael Smythe paid Blaine's friend, Kaden to make the abuse allegations. To be fair, Kaden kinda got pushed into it by that jerk, Jake, but he's the one that reported you to the ministry. Michael Smythe paid him to do it. I'm assuming he's the father of..."

"Sebastian?" Kurt slowly shook his head. "No, no, no, please...no! That...it doesn't...it doesn't make sense! We haven't seen him since high school! He lives in France! He claimed someone! I'm sure of it. Wes said he lives in France with his slave!"

Noah quirked an eyebrow. "France? The JacqueLeTech Corporation." Noah paused for a moment, thinking. "It all makes sense. Michael Smythe is CEO of Industries Tech Company. They have a large presence in the Midwest and east coast, and a European operation in Paris. I'm betting that JacqueLeTech is a part of Industries Tech. Maybe a smaller division, a special project or..."

"It's a new company."

Kurt and Noah turned to see Tristan standing in front of the bedroom door, tears rolling down his face. Noah looked at Tristan and then at Kurt with a smirk. Wow. The princess wasn't so innocent after all.

Kurt stared at Tristan. "How do you know?"

Tristan covered his mouth as he started sobbing loudly, his shoulders shaking. Kurt went to him.

"Tristan? What? What's wrong? What is it?"

"I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I should have told you, but I was scared you'd hate me! I didn't know! I swear I didn't know! I never thought..."

Kurt suddenly felt cold. He backed away just a bit. "You didn't know what?"

Tristan felt the chill and started crying harder. "I was gonna tell you tonight! I swear!"

Kurt was sure he was having a heart attack just like his father. It was getting harder and harder to breathe, his chest felt squeezed, and his head was starting to hurt.

"Tell me what!"

"Sebastian...my Sebastian...you know him. You went to school together. I didn't know! I swear! I just found the yearbook the other week and...I'm sorry! I didn't know he was involved...I'm sorry! Please, Kurt! Don't! No...don't!"

Tristan fell to his knees as Kurt backed away from him, shaking his head, his eyes full of hurt and anger.

"You...you're...you're Sebastian's slave? You mean..." He turned to Noah. "So, it's true? Sebastian has Blaine?"

Noah shook his head. "I don't know that for sure, but it makes sense. Why else would Michael Smythe pay someone to lie about you if not to make you lose Blaine so he could give him to his son? The only thing I don't get is, why? I mean, all they needed was for Victoria to issue the rescind order. The abuse allegations weren't necessary. It was an expensive extra step. I don't get why he would do that."

The rage that boiled inside Kurt leading up to Blaine's removal had melted away as sadness and heartbreak took over. Now the rage came roaring back and Tristan was its target.

Kurt stood over him, his eyes flashing with an angry, bright blue fire. "You! You set me up! You tricked me! He sent you, didn't he? Didn't he! You lying whore!"

Tristan cried and screamed. "No! No! I swear, Kurt! I swear! He didn't send me! He got rid of me, just like I told you! I swear! He doesn't know we met! I haven't talked to him since he released me! Please, Kurt! You have to believe me! It was all a coincidence! I swear, Kurt! I swear! Please! Don't hate me! I didn't know! I didn't know! I didn't know!"

Tristan buried his face in his hands as he dissolved into loud, broken sobs. Kurt just stared at him, his mind racing.

Tristan was Sebastian's slave.

Sebastian had Blaine.

He had been fooling around with Sebastian's slave.

Sebastian had Blaine.

Sebastian had Blaine.

Sebastian had Blaine!

The full meaning of this crashed into Kurt like a mountain. Sebastian. The one person who had stalked and tormented Blaine in high school. The person Blaine had always feared most.

The person Kurt had promised to protect Blaine from.

"Ignore what he said. It means nothing...I will claim you on your 18th birthday. I will claim you and you will be my slave. Mine. Not his. Mine."

Blaine was with Sebastian, possibly for four months.

Four months.

Kurt dropped to the couch and stifled the screams in his head as he forced down the bile rising in his throat. He looked up at Noah.

"We have to go get him."

Noah nodded. "I had a feeling you might say that." He jerked his head towards the duffel bag. "I made a quick detour and picked up my stuff. Get packed. Our flight leaves at 6:00 am."

Kurt glanced at the clock. It was close to midnight. Noah knew what he was thinking. "It's the earliest one, Kurt." Kurt nodded. He looked at Tristan who was still on his knees. He was staring at Kurt, tears running down his face as his eyes begged for forgiveness. Kurt's eyes turned cold, his voice pure ice.

"Get out. I never want to see you again."

"Kurt...please..."

"Get out!"

"Whoa, Kurt. Hold on a minute." Noah gave Tristan a hard look. "You say you don't know if Sebastian has Blaine."

Tristan nodded vigorously. "I swear. I don't know. I can't imagine.."

Noah cut him off. "Yeah, yeah, yeah, he's a great guy. Whatever. Look, you wanna prove it?" Tristan nodded.

"Okay. Fine. You're coming with us."

Kurt looked horrified. "What!"

"Calm down, princess. Look I've been to Paris, but I don't speak French. We can waste time trying to find Sebastian, or we can have someone take us right to him."

Tristan jumped to his feet, excited about the prospect of seeing Sebastian. Of going home.

"Yes! Yes! I'll help you! I speak fluent French and I know my way around the city. I'll go with you. I'll help you."

Noah looked at Kurt. "Well?"

Kurt nodded. Anything that would get him to Blaine faster.

"Alright. I'll go with Tristan to get his stuff." Noah shot Tristan a suspicious look. "Just in case you decide to get any ideas. We'll get his stuff and come back here, rest for a bit and then leave for the airport. Cool?"

Kurt nodded.

"Alright. Get dressed and come on."

As Tristan went to the bedroom to get his clothes, Kurt suddenly realized what this must look like to Noah. Kurt was wearing a t-shirt and pajama pants, but Tristan wore only boxers.

"Noah...um...I...Tristan and I..."

Noah put up his hand. "I don't wanna know. Frankly, I don't care."

"But I don't want you to think that I'm..."

"Kurt! Stop! Doesn't matter. Look, I know you love Blaine, alright? It's fine. I get it. Four months is a long time. People have needs and they get lonely. Believe me, I know."

Kurt decided to drop it. It didn't matter anyway. What mattered is that they were going to get Blaine.

They were going to bring Blaine home.

Blaine lay in Sebastian's arms, lost and confused as his cock pressed against the steel of the cock cage. After struggling all night to process the presence of the cock cage, but no collar, his mind had decided to accept the cage as a collar. Adding to his confusion was Sebastian whispering loving words into his ear. Sebastian was purposely screwing with Blaine's head in preparation for their claiming ceremony. Sebastian's mother had called and wanted him to come home next week for some stupid society party. He didn't want to take Blaine back to the states unclaimed. His father would have a fit, plus it was dangerous. Blaine would be back on home soil. His submission would probably keep him from running, but why take chances?

They would leave tomorrow for the countryside. They would stay in one of Sebastian's favorite small towns that had an adorable cottage on a hill. He would claim Blaine there and they would spend the week on a kind of honeymoon. He would fuck Blaine until he couldn't. He tightened his hold around him and started whispering again.

"You're so gorgeous, Blaine, and such a good boy. You deserve a reward."

Blaine snuggled closer to Sebastian and waited. Yes, he was a good boy. Maybe this new master would finally fuck him. He was hungry for it, and the cock cage was driving him mad. Maybe he would even be allowed to come.

Sebastian untangled their bodies and climbed out of bed. "On your hands and knees, Blaine." Blaine moved obediently and waited. He flinched when Sebastian slid a slick finger into his hole and started stretching him. He only worked his ass for a moment before sliding a slick plug, tight and snug inside him. Blaine's body trembled as his submission soared. Between the cock cage and the plug his mind was gone. Sebastian patted his head. "You're such a good boy. You may walk down the stairs, but from now on you crawl."

Blaine slowly rose to his feet as the plug shifted and settled inside him. Sebastian reached around and pushed it in a bit further causing Blaine to groan and his knees to buckle. Sebastian steadied him and led him downstairs. He fixed a large bowl of apple jacks with no milk and settled them on the couch. Blaine sat between his legs, his head resting on Sebastian's chest. Sebastian grabbed handfuls of apple jacks and fed them to Blaine like popcorn. He turned on the TV and flipped to a movie with English subtitles. Blaine didn't feel like reading the words, so he closed his eyes and accepted the cereal Sebastian pushed into his mouth. Once he was finished, Sebastian sat the bowl on the floor and wrapped his arms around him. Blaine snuggled back against him and felt Sebastian's dominance cover him, thicker and heavier than before. Sebastian stroked his hair and spoke to him quietly.

"Tomorrow will be our claiming day. The plug is to get you ready. I'm going to fuck you into little pieces, gorgeous."

Blaine fell deeper into the confused mess of his brain.

A claim. A collar. A master.

Blaine fell asleep under the heavy warmth and protective feel of Sebastian, but his mind dreamed of Kurt. They were strange dreams where Kurt was present, but faint. An almost shadowy figure Blaine struggled to see. Every time he was close to gaining a clear view, Sebastian would appear in front of him. Tall, strong, and powerful. He would command Blaine to serve him, and Blaine would fall to his knees. By the time he was done, the image of Kurt was gone.

"Blaine...hey, Blaine...pretty boy, wake up."

Blaine opened his eyes and stared at Sebastian with wide, obedient eyes. Sebastian sighed in contentment at this clear sign of brokenness and pure submission. Blaine was definitely ready to be claimed.

"Stand up and bend over, gorgeous." Sebastian removed the plug. "I think that's enough for today. You will sleep with it inside you tonight. Let's get dressed. We're going out to lunch. I think it's time for you to meet some people."

Kurt fidgeted nervously as they waited to board the plane. Everything was moving too slow. He wanted to go, go, go. They had to get going. Now that he knew where Blaine might be, all he wanted to do was hurry up and get there.

Once Noah and Tristan left, Kurt had started packing. How long would they be gone? What if Sebastian didn't have Blaine? No. He had to have him. He had to. Why else would Michael Smythe pay all that money?

He decided to pack for a week. He stopped midway through and looked at Blaine's side of the closet. Should he pack clothes for Blaine? Did Sebastian have clothes for him? Did Sebastian pick out his clothes every morning? Blaine really liked having his clothes chosen for him.

Sebastian.

Kurt sat on the bed and broke down crying. Did Sebastian have Blaine the entire four months? What had he been doing to him? Had he claimed him? What if they got there and Blaine was wearing Sebastian's collar? If Blaine was collared, Kurt couldn't take him. Bile rose in his throat and this time he didn't try to hold back. He ran to the bathroom and threw up.

He gave himself 15 minutes to cry before picking himself up off the floor. He stared in the mirror.

Okay. Enough. It doesn't matter what Sebastian's done. Blaine belongs to you. Stop crying and carrying on and go get your slave.

Kurt finished packing, throwing in a few clothes and items for Blaine. He took a long hot shower and was in the middle of moisturizing when Noah and Tristan returned. Noah looked exhausted while Tristan looked sad and scared. Kurt pulled out the sofa bed. Noah pulled off his jacket and jeans and fell into the bed without a word. Tristan looked at Kurt and then away quickly. He couldn't stand the coldness in Kurt's eyes. Kurt didn't say a word to him. He turned off the light and went to his bedroom, slamming the door behind him, leaving Tristan standing in the dark. Tristan cried silently as he pulled off his pants and gently laid down on the bed, as far away as possible from Noah. He wrapped his arms around himself and tried to fall asleep, but his hurt wouldn't allow him to relax along with the image of Kurt's cold, blue eyes. He finally got up and went to Kurt's room.

He knocked softly before going in. "Kurt? Kurt?" Kurt pretended to be asleep, but he couldn't sleep. He was too worked up. He heard Tristan move quietly across the floor to the bed. He felt the dip and shake of the bed as Tristan laid down. He could feel Tristan's warm breath caressing his face as Tristan laid on his side and watched Kurt sleep. He spoke softly.

"I know you hate me and I guess you have every right to, but...please believe me when I say I didn't know and that Sebastian didn't send me. I hope you'll forgive me one day because...I love you. I know you want Blaine and that's fine. I want you to have Blaine. I just don't want to lose you as a friend. You've been so good to me, and...I'm sorry. I'm sorry I hurt you. I'm sorry my master...I'm sorry Sebastian hurt you."

Tristan stopped as new tears ran down his cheeks. How much more could he cry tonight? He rolled over and closed his eyes, hoping sleep would come from him being close to Kurt. Several minutes later, Tristan felt an arm gently wrap around his waist and pull him close. Tristan's entire body relaxed and he fell asleep.

K&T&N&K

As the plane taxied down the runway, Kurt felt a tiny bit better. He also felt grateful to Noah. Not only had he purchased three first class tickets, Kurt was shocked when Noah handed him passports for both him and Blaine.

"How did you...when did you?"

Noah grinned. "I know people."

As the plane took off, Kurt reached over and grabbed Noah's hand.

"Thank you. Thank you for everything."

"Don't thank me yet. Sebastian might not have Blaine."

Kurt shook his head. "I'm sure he has him, but I can't believe he would do this. After all these years. After claiming Tristan. To get rid of Tristan to steal Blaine...it just doesn't make sense. It's crazy and sick."

Noah glanced around and lowered his voice. "Look, Kurt. I don't know what we're about to find out, but if we get there and this dude has Blaine, and he's claimed him...well...I don't know what to tell you. You can't just take a claimed slave. There is a serious possibility that we will have to leave without Blaine in order to regroup and come up with a plan."

Kurt nodded and then turned to face straight ahead.

He was not leaving Paris without Blaine.

Cooper rolled over and reluctantly picked up his iPad. He sat back against the headboard and closed his eyes. It was so good to be back home. Being away had been hell. His need to dominate had practically eaten him alive, but he was glad he'd left Lisa at home. The deep, dark cold of Siberia was no place for his sweet, beautiful slave. He opened his eyes and smiled appreciatively at her as she slept, exhausted from being taken over and over again, her wrists and ankles tightly bound just the way she liked and Cooper preferred. He gently caressed her hair and felt his cock twitch when she instinctively moaned under his gentle touch and scooted closer to his body. He removed his hand, not wanting to wake her. She needed to sleep because he planned to continue screwing the hell out of her when she woke up. He had months to make up for.

He quietly cursed as he opened his email. While most of Siberia had internet access, the far upper north location he'd been in had intermittent access and almost no cell phone service. Cooper found himself constantly losing emails and struggling to get his cell phone to work. The entire trip had been a long, cold, lonely nightmare, and he still couldn't figure out why his mother had insisted on sending him. None of her reasons made sense, but Cooper always did what his mother wanted and what was best for the company. After all, it would all be his one day.

He started scrolling, quickly deleting spam messages and email ads. He almost hit delete before recognizing the address, khummelNY at yahoo dot com.

Since I haven't heard from you, I'm assuming you're either not receiving my messages, or you don't care. Since I don't know for sure either way, I thought I would go ahead and send this to you.

Attached is my appeal to get Blaine back. I've sent this to the Ministry and am also sending it to anyone I think can help. I love your brother and I want him back. I'm not giving up.

If you aren't interested just delete the file, let me know, and I'll stop bothering you.

Kurt

What the fuck?

Cooper clicked on the file and read through the first few pages outlining the investigation into Kurt, and Blaine's removal by rescind order.

Rescind order?

What the hell?

Cooper grabbed his cell phone.

Blaine listened attentively as Sebastian drove to Maitres.

"All slaves must crawl and must sit at their master's feet. It's club rules. After a year I can petition for you to be allowed to walk. If you're a good boy, I'll do that. Petitions are always granted."

A year? Will I still be here a year from now?

"The first floor is the dining room. That's where we're going. The second floor is private meeting rooms. The third floor is the gym and the fourth and fifth floors..." Sebastian smiled wickedly, "...the fourth floor is the pleasure floor. That's where parties are held for masters to show off their slaves. There are rooms where masters can torture their slaves while an audience watches, and rooms for masters to share their slaves. I don't share, but I sometimes like to watch."

Blaine swallowed as excitement bubbled inside him. Chandler and Seth belonged to a club like this. Chandler never shared Seth, and they never performed in public, but they liked to go and watch to see if there were things they might like to try together. Kurt and Blaine had briefly discussed joining a club years ago, but they never made a decision and the conversation never came up again.

"What's on the fifth floor?"

"The fifth floor is hardcore slave punishment and torture. You have to have a special pass and sign certain documents to access that floor."

Blaine hated the way his cock pressed against the steel of the cage. He didn't ask if Sebastian had a pass.

They pulled up front and a valet immediately appeared. Once they reached the door, Blaine dropped to the ground.

"I don't have a leash for you since you don't have your collar yet, so you'll have to be a good boy and stay right with me." Blaine nodded.

Once inside, Blaine was blown away. The restaurant was breathtakingly beautiful. Large, open and spacious, but dim and very formal. Replicas of famous French artwork adorned the walls and ceiling. There were beautiful crystal chandeliers and the colors were deep maroons, gold and ivory. But despite the formal décor, there was an air of excitement and sensuality. Everyone seemed classy, wealthy and sophisticated. As they walked through the restaurant, Sebastian stopped to say hello to people and give and receive kisses on the cheek. Blaine was surprised when Sebastian started introducing him to people. The masters smiled and nodded at him. He shyly nodded back and moved closer to Sebastian. He couldn't understood what was being said, but he still caught the name Tristan occasionally. Sebastian no longer tensed at the mention. Instead he rattled off something in French that always seemed to appease the person asking. The slaves on the other hand, regarded him coolly. They didn't smile or nod. They glared angrily. It took Blaine a moment to catch on. Of course. These were Tristan's friends. Naturally they wouldn't like Tristan's replacement.

Once they made it to their table, they were quickly joined by others. Blaine sat comfortably on the floor, as close to Sebastian as possible. Sebastian stroked his hair which Blaine found soothing. He tuned out until he heard someone speaking to Sebastian in English.

"So, what time are you getting to the party tonight?"

"I'm not going this year."

"What? I'm not sure the party can happen if you and Royce aren't there. Isn't there a law or something?"

Sebastian smiled and shook his head. "I'm sure Royce will be there. I'm just not up to it. I wanna spend time with Blaine. Our claiming day is tomorrow."

"Ah, congratulations! Yeah, it's probably best not to be out partying with other slaves the night before a claim. That is rather tacky."

Blaine was grateful when lunch arrived. He devoured the sandwich and salad placed before him. Sebastian allowed him to choose a dessert which he finished in minutes. These days he was always hungry.

Full and sleepy, he leaned his head against Sebastian's leg and closed his eyes. Sebastian smiled down at him and stroked his hair as he continued chatting with his friends.

About an hour and a half later they left. As they waited for the valet to bring their car, Royce watched them from across the street. He was just arriving for an early dinner.

He watched Blaine get into the car.

Maybe it was time to pay his friend another visit.

"Mother!"

Victoria sighed and looked up from her desk. She could hear Cooper screaming down the hallway. She knew this was coming.

Cooper burst into her office, his face red and angry. "What the hell did you do? Where's Blaine?"

"Well it's nice to see you too, Cooper. How was your trip?"

"Stop it! What did you do? Where is Blaine?"

"Blaine is fine. Trust me. He's with his new master and he's fine."

"New...new master! Are you crazy? Why would you take him from Kurt?"

"Kurt was accused of abusing your brother and..."

"Bullshit! You know that's not true! Besides, you wouldn't care! Where is he?"

"That is none of your business."

"None of my...are you insane? Tell me where my brother is, now!"

Victoria sat back and folded her hands. "Is this where Lisa gets it from? You two are awfully demanding. And ungrateful."

"Ungrateful? Are you kidding me? I just spent months in the freezing ice and snow, away from my home, away from my slave, on some stupid ass, exploratory mission for you! Don't you dare accuse me of being ungrateful, you bitch! Where's my brother!"

Victoria jumped up. "How dare you speak to me that way! I love you, Cooper, but I will not be disrespected by you, or anyone else! Your time away has obviously left you tired and overwrought. Go home and get some sleep and we will discuss this when you are in a better frame of mind."

"Where's Blaine? Just tell me where he is?"

"I told you. He's with his new master."

"Who?"

Victoria was silent for a moment. Cooper would find out eventually. He was smart. He'd look at the finances for the expansion and start asking questions. Then he would put two and two together. Might as well save him the trouble.

"He's with Michael Smythe's son, Sebastian."

"Sebastian? You gave Blaine to Sebastian? Serial rapist, Sebastian?"

Victoria rolled her eyes. "Oh, stop it! He was young and dumb. That was years ago. He's grown into a fine young man. He's running one of his father's new companies in Paris and doing quite well."

"How could you do this? How could you? You know Blaine never liked Sebastian. He told you he didn't want to be claimed by him. How could you do this? To your own son. How could you destroy Blaine like this?"

"Would you please stop being so over-dramatic? Everything you're bringing up happened years ago in high school. High school, Cooper! Get over it! Blaine is fine. Now, why don't you go get some rest? Things are running smoothly in Europe. Take a few weeks to rest, and then I'll bring you up to speed on everything."

"Tell me why? Why did you do this?"

"I told you. Kurt was abusing Blaine. When I found out, I took steps to protect him."

Cooper was about to protest, but thought better of it. He stood up.

"I'll talk to you later." He turned and left. Victoria frowned as she watched him leave. That was strangely abrupt.

Cooper waited until he was in his car to call his assistant.

"Get me every single thing on the European expansion. All the financials, the contracts, everything. And get me a meeting with Michael Smythe."

He hung up and dialed Blaine's cell phone number. The phone rang on the nightstand in Kurt and Blaine's apartment.

Blaine...it's Cooper. I don't know if you still have your phone, but if you do, call me. Call me as soon as you get this. I need to know that you're okay.

He dialed Kurt's number next.

Kurt...it's Cooper. I got your email. I'm sorry. I had no idea. I was out of the country for months on business. Actually, I now realize that my mother just needed me out of the way so she could pull this shit on you and Blaine. I'm sorry, Kurt. Call me. I wanna help you. Call me.

After lunch Sebastian and Blaine strolled the streets of Paris. Sebastian pointed out all the major sights, his favorite cafes and clothing boutiques. They stopped at a bakery where Blaine ate way too many cookies and rich French pastries. With meal times still being a bit erratic, he always felt the need to eat whenever food was made available.

By the time they arrived home it was late, Blaine was worn out, and his stomach hurt. Sebastian immediately changed into a t-shirt and boxers, but Blaine wanted to take a shower first. He took off his clothes and stared at the cock cage. It wasn't a problem to shower while wearing the cage, but Blaine was used to having it removed. Of course, he was also accustomed to showering with his master, not alone.

Since Sebastian didn't bother to come upstairs to check on him, Blaine showered with the cage on. By the time he was done, his stomach really hurt. Way too many pastries. He walked downstairs, dropping to his knees at the bottom. He crawled over to Sebastian and placed his head in his lap. Sebastian frowned.

"What's wrong?"

"Don't feel good."

"Okay. Go upstairs and get in your cage. I'll be up in awhile."

Blaine slowly crawled to the stairs and walked back up. He crawled into the cage and closed the door. It locked automatically. He laid down and hugged his stomach. Ow. It really hurt bad. Kurt would have held him, and kissed him, and rubbed his purr spot. Of course, Kurt wouldn't have allowed him to eat all that stuff in the first place.

He tossed and turned before finally falling into a restless sleep.

S&B&S&B

Sebastian stared at the collar for Blaine. It was silver with blue sapphires, designed by Cartier, and very, very expensive. As he stared at it, his mind wandered back in time to another claiming day. He shook the thought from his head and slammed the box shut. He placed it on his desk and sat down on the couch. It was a little after 7:00 pm. His cell phone rang with texts from friends who were hitting the pre-Black and Red parties. He sent texts back to let them know he hadn't changed his mind, he wasn't coming, and to have a great time. He turned on the TV and flipped channels until he found a show worth watching.

K&B&K&B

Kurt tapped his foot impatiently as they prepared to disembark. He'd slept on the plane and was now wide awake, full of nervous energy and adrenaline. He was in Paris. Blaine was in Paris. They were in the same city again and soon they would be together.

Once they were off the plane, Tristan took the lead. "Do you want to rent a car or take a taxi?" Noah answered. "Rental car. It's always best to have your own set of wheels."

"Okay. This way."

S&B&S&B

Sebastian dozed off. He was awakened by loud banging on his door. He stood up and stumbled to the door in a half asleep, half awake state. He threw it open.

"Really, Sebastian? Asleep? It's not even 10:00 pm!"

Royce.

"Hey." Sebastian turned and walked back to the couch. He yawned and ran his hand through his hair and over his face. "What are you doing here?"

Royce headed straight to the bar. "Just thought I'd come see if you changed your mind about tonight."

Sebastian shook his head. "No."

Royce downed his drink and looked around. Where was the slave?

Finally awake, Sebastian eyed him suspiciously. "Aren't you going to the pre-parties?"

Royce grinned. "Already been to one. On my way to another. Like I said, just wanted to check on you...and your new slave."

Sebastian was prepared for this. He knew taking Blaine to Maitres would lead to Royce finding out.

"We're fine."

"Can I meet him?"

Sebastian shook his head. "He's not feeling well."

"Uh huh." Royce glanced at the stairs and back at Sebastian. "Ya know, I get the distinct impression that you don't want me to meet him."

"I told you. He's sick. I think he ate too much stuff today."

Royce's smile was mean. Okay. Fine. Be that way.

"Well, I'm glad to see you moving on. It's nice to see both you and Tristan moving on."

Sebastian sighed with a frown. This shit again.

"Yeah, well. I guess."

Royce quirked an eyebrow. "You don't care if Tristan's moved on?"

"No." Lie. Lie. Lie.

Royce stood up and walked to the window. Night was beginning to fall. He spoke evenly, enjoying every second.

"Good. Then you won't mind if I give him a call."

"What?"

"You won't mind if I give him a call. If he's still available, I might like to claim him."

"What are you talking about? You can't claim Tristan."

"Why not? If he's free..."

Sebastian shook his head. "You can't claim him."

Royce turned and stared directly into Sebastian's eyes. "Why not? I already fucked him."

The color drained from Sebastian's face. "Wh-what?"

"I already fucked him, and let me tell ya, I don't know what you have hiding upstairs that could possibly match the deliciousness of Tristan."

Sebastian laughed lightly and shook his head. "You're just fucking with me."

"Oh, believe me. I'm not. He was incredible. So...open and willing. I swear his skin tastes like brown sugar. And I was right about pulling his hair. He screamed in the most amazing ways. Which makes sense when you think about it. Tell me, when you used to fuck him did you notice the birthmark on his inner right thigh? It sorta looks like a crescent..."

Sebastian jumped to his feet, screaming. "You asshole! You bastard! How could you? How could you do that to me!"

"I didn't do anything to you, dumb ass! You released him! You made him fair game!"

"No! No! Not for you! Not for you! I knew it! I knew you always wanted him! Don't think I didn't notice how you used to look at him! You're supposed to be my best friend! How could you do this shit to me!"

"Oh, grow the fuck up, Sebastian! I did you a favor! Tristan was always too good for you! Even you knew that! But now that he's turned into a whore, I'd say he's perfect for you!"

Sebastian lunged, swinging his fist. Royce had nothing but time on his hands, so he'd spent a year taking private martial arts lessons. Even in his slightly intoxicated state, he effortlessly landed several punches to Sebastian's face, chest and stomach sending Sebastian crashing into the wall, knocking over a bookshelf. Sebastian managed to quickly recover and land a few punches of his own. They grabbed each other and started wrestling and slamming each other into the walls. Royce flipped Sebastian over, sending him crashing into the desk.

All the noise woke up Blaine. He sat up on his knees and grabbed the bars of the cage.

"Sebastian?"

There was another loud crash.

"Sebastian! Sebastian!"

Sebastian couldn't answer because Royce was beating the shit out of him.

Behind every punch, kick and flip were years of pent up jealousy and hurt. Despite his own amazing looks, wealth, and plenty of slaves, both male and female, who wanted him, Royce always had a deep, burning jealousy of Sebastian. Especially after he claimed Tristan.

In college it was Royce who first laid eyes on Tristan. Like so many masters before him, Royce struck up a friendly conversation and asked him out. Tristan politely declined. Royce wasn't going to give up that easily, but then Sebastian saw Tristan and it was over. Royce hated him for that. For being able to so easily take what he wanted. He seethed with jealousy as he watched the two fall in love with each other, and he dutifully held the collar tray on their claiming day. He never said anything to Sebastian, but Sebastian always had a feeling Royce harbored desire for Tristan. He decided it was only natural. After all, Tristan was a beautiful slave and Royce was a master. It was natural for him to find Tristan attractive. Most gay men and women did. As long as he never acted on it, it was fine.

Royce's final punch sent Sebastian spinning to the floor, hitting his head on the hard edge of the chair. He lay there, unmoving. His head bleeding, his face bruised, and his body battered.

Royce stood over him, breathing hard, slightly dizzy and drunk. He stared at Sebastian's lifeless body for a moment before staggering to the bar to fix another drink.

"Sebastian! Sebastian! What's going on? Sebastian!"

Royce looked towards the stairs and smiled.

As Kurt listened to Tristan negotiate the car rental, he was glad they decided to have him come. Yes, he'd taken French for years, and was a pretty good speaker, but it didn't compare to being in the country trying to keep up with true Frenchmen.

Once they were settled in the car Tristan turned to Kurt.

"Do you want to find a hotel first or..."

"Sebastian. Take us to Sebastian."

Tristan glanced back nervously at Noah. "Um...if we get there and...he does have Blaine...you...you're not going to hurt him, are you? I won't let you hurt him."

Kurt glared at him angrily. "After the way he's treated you? You do understand that if he has Blaine, which I'm sure he does, it means he released you because he wanted another slave and didn't care about hurting you or Blaine. He's a selfish, heartless, son-of-a-bitch who doesn't deserve your love, concern or protection. Now drive."

Tristan started the car. Maybe. But I still love him.

"Sebastian! Sebastian!"

Blaine stopped yelling when he heard footsteps on the stairs.

"Sebastian, what's..." he trailed off as Royce entered the room.

Royce's eyes glazed over with an evil lust as he stared at Blaine, shirtless, in boxers, his hair long and curly, his eyes wide with fear.

"Well, well, well. No wonder he's been hiding you. Aren't you pretty?" Royce cocked his head to the side. "You're not beautiful like Tristan, but you're definitely gorgeous. A different kind of beauty."

Blaine inched backwards, but there was nowhere for him to go. Royce walked over and knelt down in front of the cage. He closed his eyes and inhaled deeply. He opened them and stared at Blaine, slightly bewildered.

"Shit. Is that your submission? I can fucking smell it. Damn."

Royce pulled at the locked cage door. He stood up and started looking around the room and searching the dresser. Where was the cage key?

Blaine edged all the way back to the corner of the cage, his body shaking with fear. Where the hell was Sebastian?

Royce gave up his search of the bedroom and went downstairs. He picked through the mess until he found Sebastian's keys. He ran back upstairs. The cage key was easy to pick out. All cage keys looked like ornate, medieval dungeon keys.

"Let's get you out of there, shall we?"

Blaine cowered in the corner as Royce unlocked the door.

"Come on out, pretty."

Blaine trembled and tried to resist. Four months ago he would have been able to say no, but now his mind struggled to form thoughts of refusal under the heavy presence and strong tone of a master. His submission burned, urging him to obey.

Royce looked directly into his eyes. "Come out, now."

Blaine obediently crawled out.

"Stand up."

Royce walked around him, taking him all in. "Damn. You are lovely. What's your name?"

"Blaine."

Royce's face lit up. "Blaine? Blaine from high school, Blaine? Wow! Sebastian's been a very busy boy." Royce's grin slowly morphed into a wicked, lustful smile. He licked his lips as he reached out and tangled his fingers in Blaine's curls. "He does like boys with hair. Not that I blame him. The way you boys scream is amazing." Blaine shrieked as Royce grabbed a bunch of curls and pulled hard. Royce laughed.

"Downstairs. Now."

Blaine obediently walked downstairs followed by Royce. He looked around the wrecked living room in shock when he spotted Sebastian bleeding in the corner, still unconscious. He started to move towards him.

"Freeze! On your knees!"

Blaine immediately fell to his knees. His voice was quiet and quivering with fear. "Sebastian? Sebastian...please...wake up." Sebastian remained motionless.

Royce stood over Blaine and grabbed his hair, pulling his head back. "I've started a new tradition. I get to fuck all of Sebastian's slaves, past and future. I mean, it's only fair. If he's going to dump me to spend all his time with you, I think I should get a little consolation piece of ass, don't you?"

"Please...don't...I..."

"Shhh. Don't worry. I won't be gentle. I never am. Just ask Tristan."

Royce unzipped his pants. Blaine struggled against his mind's natural response to the sound.

"Please...please...no..."

Tristan pulled up to the back of the building and punched in the code to raise the garage door. Thank God it hadn't changed. He pulled in and parked. Now that they were finally steps away from Sebastian's home, Kurt could barely control the urgency racing through his body. He was sure Sebastian had Blaine, and he had a sick feeling that Blaine was in major trouble. He forced himself to follow Tristan instead of running past him towards the elevators. Tristan suddenly stopped. Kurt practically growled.

"What? What is it?"

Tristan pointed to the black Lamborghini. "That's his car. He's home."

Noah whistled. "Nice wheels."

Kurt felt like screaming. "Come on!"

They boarded the elevator and Tristan hit 15.

Royce tangled both hands in Blaine's hair and pulled his head back further. Blaine's eyes filled with tears.

Royce closed his eyes. "Damn. Your submission just wafts off you. It's incredible." He suddenly let go of Blaine's hair and stepped back.

"Stand up."

Blaine quickly stood. Royce placed his hands on his shoulders. "If your submission is this strong before I've even touched you, what's it like if I bring our bodies together? I bet it's fucking fireworks." He started backing Blaine towards the wall.

There was the sound of a key in the lock. Shit. Royce figured it was John. He stepped back from Blaine.

The door opened.

Tristan and Kurt stumbled into the living room as they both tried to be the first to enter. They were momentarily shocked into stillness as they took in the destroyed living room. Then Kurt saw him.

"Blaine!"

Blaine stared in disbelief as Kurt ran forward and grabbed him in a crushing hug. "Oh, Blaine! Blaine! Blaine!" Kurt pulled back for just a moment to check Blaine's neck.

No collar.

He hadn't been claimed.

Kurt started sobbing uncontrollably as he squeezed Blaine tight.

Tristan scanned the room searching for Sebastian. He walked in further and spotted him in the corner. "Sebastian!" Tristan ran over and kneeled beside him. "Sebastian? Sebastian?" Tristan gasped as he spied the gash in Sebastian's head along with the swelling and bruises on his face. The bleeding had stopped, leaving a sticky trail of blood across Sebastian's forehead and cheek. "Sebastian? Oh, God! Sebastian, wake up!"

Noah stared at Royce who was quickly zipping his pants and glancing towards the door. Noah stepped in front of him.

"Who are you?"

"None of your..." He was cut off as Noah delivered a stunning punch to Royce's face. Royce stumbled back and fell. Noah stood over him and glared. "I don't know who you are, but the fact that your zipper was down and Blaine was against a wall is all I really need to know." Royce moaned, "fuck you," and received a swift kick in the stomach and balls in response.

Kurt loosened his hold on Blaine to study Blaine's eyes. His heart filled with pain.

Blaine was broken.

Blaine's strength and fight were gone, replaced by fear wrapped in a deep, strong, smothering submission, worse than high school. What did Sebastian do to him? What had Blaine endured? Kurt felt a boiling rage fill him along with the urgent need to get them out of there.

Blaine stared at Kurt with wide, confused eyes. He couldn't believe he was really there. Kurt took his hand.

"Blaine, where are your clothes? Do you have clothes?"

Blaine nodded and glanced towards the stairs. Kurt quickly headed for the stairs, pulling Blaine along behind him. Blaine glanced confusedly at Noah, but stopped completely when he saw the beautiful boy he recognized from the portrait at the island house. He stared until Kurt pulled him along.

Tristan was sitting on the floor, crying and cradling Sebastian's head in his lap. His tears fell on Sebastian's bloodied, bruised face. Sebastian was in too much pain to move, but he managed to open his eyes a tiny crack. He could just make out a fuzzy image of Tristan's face. He was sure it was an illusion brought on by his pain, but what a nice illusion. He managed to open his eyes a bit further.

"Sebastian!" Tristan started crying harder in relief. Sebastian slowly raised his hand to caress Tristan's cheek. He closed his eyes and drifted back into unconsciousness as Tristan's submission floated over him, triggering his dominance to rise and wrap around Tristan. Tristan sighed heavily and closed his eyes. Home. Right or wrong, Sebastian was home.

At the top of the stairs Kurt stopped and looked around. He took a guess and walked straight into Sebastian's bedroom. He froze when he saw the cage.

A cage.

Had Blaine spent time in that cage?

Kurt pressed a hand to his stomach, hoping to quell the thick nausea surging inside. His eyes slowly moved to the chains on the wall and the whip in the corner. He felt hot and sick. He quickly walked to the closet and froze again when he saw all the expensive designer clothes. He would've been jealous if he hadn't been so eager to get them the hell out of there. He grabbed a pair of jeans and a shirt.

"Put these on."

Blaine took the shirt and quickly pulled it over his head to hide his back. He looked at the pants, but didn't reach for them. Instead he stared at the floor. Kurt didn't notice. He was too busy scanning the room as if he expected someone to suddenly jump out and stop him from taking Blaine. Several moments passed before Kurt realized Blaine was just standing there.

"Blaine? Put these on so we can go."

Blaine tensed as his eyes filled with fear.

"Blaine?"

Blaine licked his lips, his eyes still on the floor. His voice was scarcely a whisper.

"I'm sorry."

"Sorry for what?" Kurt's heart was thumping hard and loud. No, no, no. Please don't be happy with him like Tristan said. Please don't want to stay. Please? I love you.

Blaine's hands trembled as he slowly pulled down his boxers revealing the cock cage.

Kurt felt slightly faint from the surge of emotions that attacked him all at once, the overwhelming one being anger.

Sebastian put a cock cage on Blaine.

Sebastian put a cock cage on his slave. On his Blaine.

Kurt's eyes flashed with anger and disgust that Blaine mistook as directed at him. He collapsed to his knees and sobbed.

"I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I...I tried...I did...but...I...I got weak...my body...my...the way I am...I'm sorry..."

Blaine broke down crying. Kurt dropped to his knees and wrapped his arms around him.

"Shhh. Blaine, my love, it's okay. This isn't your fault. None of this is your fault. I love you. I love you and you are mine. You will always be mine. I love you, Blaine. I love you."

Blaine wilted in Kurt's arms as relief along with the weight of everything else crashed down on him.

Kurt held him for several minutes before pulling them to their feet. His determination was renewed. He had to get Blaine home as soon as possible. He looked around and spotted Sebastian's keys on the bed. He grabbed them and found the small key to the cock cage. He quickly unlocked it and threw it across the room. He helped Blaine put on his pants and shoes and pulled him down the stairs.

Tristan stood up when Kurt and Blaine entered the room. He stared intently at Blaine. He was very curious about the man who caused his master to release him. What was so special about him?

Noah looked at Kurt. "Alright. Now what?"

"We're leaving. We need to find a hotel and figure out the next available flight home." Kurt turned to Tristan. "Are you coming?"

Noah shook his head. "Wait a minute, Kurt. You can't just take him. I told you that. He's still owned by this JacqueLeTech Corporation. You take him without permission and it's kidnapping."

Kurt's dominance rose and his chin lifted in defiance.

"I don't care. You're crazy if you think I'm leaving him here. He hasn't been claimed, so that means he's free. I'm taking him."

"Come on, Kurt. By now you know we are dealing with people and entities that don't play by the same ministry rules as the rest of the world. Is he free since he's not claimed? Technically, yes. But the rescind order was done legally and so was the hand off to JacqueLeTech. You can't just take him! We need a plan."

Sebastian suddenly moaned and stirred. Tristan ran to him and kneeled down. "Sebastian? Honey? Are you okay?"

Kurt stared at Sebastian.

Hatred. Pure, unfiltered, unadulterated, hatred.

Kurt lost it.

He ran towards Sebastian, pushed Tristan out of the way and started kicking Sebastian in the stomach, adding to the intense pain he was already experiencing. Sebastian cried out while Kurt screamed at him.

"I hate you! I hate you! You stupid, selfish, destructive, son-of-a-bitch! I hate you! I hate you! I hate you!"

Tristan jumped up and grabbed Kurt. "Stop it! Stop it! He's already hurt!"

"I don't care! I wish he were dead! He's a sick, worthless excuse for a human being!" Kurt tried to kick Sebastian again, but Tristan blocked him. "Stop it! Stop it! You're hurting him!"

"Why are your protecting him? After what he did to you? To me? To Blaine? What's wrong with you?"

"I don't care! I love him! I love him!"

Kurt stumbled backwards. "Then have him! You can rot in hell with him, because that's where he's going!"

Kurt turned and wrapped his arms around Blaine, sobbing. This time Blaine returned the embrace, wrapping his arms tightly around Kurt. Kurt noticed how much thinner Blaine felt in his arms. He pulled back a bit and studied Blaine's face. He was pale, and looked like he might pass out at any moment.

Kurt abandoned his rage. He needed to focus on Blaine. "Enough of this." He looked at Tristan. "We're leaving. I assume you're staying?"

Surprisingly, Tristan looked torn. For months he'd dreamed of being back home with Sebastian. Of feeling Sebastian's dominance wrapped around him. Despite everything he still loved Sebastian.

But...

Sebastian had treated him horribly. He'd thrown him out like garbage. What if he did it again? A slave needed to have trust in their master. How could he ever trust Sebastian again?

He looked back at Sebastian, lying on the floor, moaning in pain. Despite everything, Tristan couldn't leave him. Not like this.

"I know you don't approve, but..I love him. I still love him, and...maybe he still loves me."

Blaine spoke quietly. "He does."

Tristan's eyes filled with hope. "Really?" Blaine nodded.

Kurt was alarmed. "Tristan, look at everything that's happened. Everything you've been through, and that I've been through. It all happened because of him! He's a selfish jerk. You deserve better. Someone who will treat you well. What if he throws you out again?"

Tristan stepped forward and took Kurt's hand. "I'm willing to take that chance. I love him, Kurt. I know I shouldn't, but I do. I can't help it. I wanna stay and see where things go. Plus, this way I can help you. I'll convince him to have his father sign the papers giving you Blaine once and for all. It's the least I can do for all you've done for me. If it wasn't for you, Kurt, there's no telling where I'd be right now. You saved me, so let me try to save Blaine for you."

"Tristan...you're so beautiful. You could do so much better, and you can't trust him. He's proven that he can't be trusted."

"I know, but maybe things will be okay. Especially if Blaine's right."

"If something happens, promise you'll call me. You can call me and I'll help you." Kurt paused as he realized how that sounded. "Not help you like...you know. I mean, I'll help you move on with your life." Tristan smiled and nodded. He leaned over and kissed Kurt's cheek. "Thank you."

Tristan gave Noah the keys to the rental car and wrote down the name and address of his favorite luxury hotel in Paris along with directions.

It was only then that they noticed Royce was gone.

Noah was pissed."Who was he?"

Tristan wrapped his arms around himself as the last time he saw Royce flashed through his mind. "Sebastian's best friend."

"Do we need to worry about him?"

Tristan shook his head. "No."

Tristan walked them to the door. Kurt looked at him. "You're sure about this?"

Tristan nodded."Yes. I know he's made a lot of mistakes. Really awful, terrible mistakes, but...I can't help how I feel. I still love him."

Kurt nodded. "Okay. Just...let me know if he agrees about Blaine."

Tristan nodded. "I'll be in touch."

After Kurt, Blaine and Noah left, Tristan searched all over the living room for Sebastian's keys before thinking to check upstairs. He ran upstairs and was surprised by the new bedroom set up. Sebastian had changed everything around.

And added a brand new cage to the room.

Tristan's heart hurt as he stared at it.

He picked up Sebastian's keys and slowly walked downstairs. He kneeled next to Sebastian and whispered in his ear. "I'm going to take you to the hospital, and help you get better, and then we are going to talk."

Sebastian blinked and tried to focus on Tristan's face. His voice was quiet and weak.

"I still...love you. Always...have."

Tristan smiled.

Kurt opened the hotel room door and was once again grateful they'd brought Tristan. The hotel was perfect. Beautiful and comfortable. He kept his arm around Blaine's waist and led him to the bed, sitting him down gently. He thanked the bellhop for bringing up his bags and apologized for tipping him in American dollars. When the door closed, Kurt finally exhaled.

He had Blaine back.

His beautiful, but broken Blaine. How deep was the damage?

For the first time in their relationship Kurt wasn't sure how to take care of Blaine. How long had Blaine remained strong before succumbing to his powerful submission? And once the submission took over, what had Sebastian done to him?

Kurt decided to start with what felt natural, normal. A shower.

"Blaine?" Kurt's heart broke as Blaine looked up at him with wide, fearful eyes. Why was he afraid? "Let's take a shower, okay?"

Blaine nodded, but as Kurt studied him, he decided a bath would be better. Blaine looked to weak to stand. He mentally thanked Tristan again when he walked into the huge, luxurious bathroom with a large jacuzzi tub.

Blaine was sitting on the bed, staring at the floor, looking tense and scared. Kurt kneeled down in front of him.

"Let's take a bath instead." Blaine nodded. Kurt removed Blaine's shoes and helped him out of his pants. Kurt started removing his own clothes leaving Blaine to remove his boxers and shirt. Blaine slipped off his boxers, but didn't remove his shirt. Instead he stared at the floor. Kurt stood naked in front of him. Was this too much? "Blaine?" Blaine slowly looked up, his eyes full of guilt. Why guilt?

"What's wrong?"

Blaine stared into Kurt's eyes. God, how many nights had he dreamed of those beautiful, blue eyes. Eyes that stared at him with so much love. Would Kurt look at him with love once he learned what he'd done with Sebastian? Once he saw his back? Once he knew how much he'd enjoyed it?"

Blaine licked his lips. "I...I'm sorry..."

Kurt shook his head. "Stop saying that. You have nothing to be sorry for. Nothing."

Blaine couldn't help but run his eyes up and down Kurt's body. He was so beautiful. Kurt smiled. "Come on. I don't want the water to get cold." He pulled Blaine to his feet and took the hem of his shirt, pulling it over his head. Despite being a bit thinner, Blaine's chest was still well defined. Kurt was reminded of the first time he saw Blaine naked. He resisted the urge to lean over and lick Blaine's chest. Instead he took his shoulders and turned him towards the bathroom. "You'll feel better after a bath."

Blaine took a few steps forward and stopped when he heard Kurt's loud gasp.

Kurt was speechless, his hand clamped over his mouth.

Blaine's back...

The scars...

He would kill Sebastian. He would shoot him dead and apologize to Tristan.

Kurt quickly walked forward and stepped in front of Blaine. He placed his hands on his shoulders. "Look at me." Blaine slowly looked up. "I love you. I will always love you. No matter what. Now, let's take our bath."

Kurt slowly and lovingly washed Blaine's body and hair. Blaine closed his eyes and relaxed under Kurt's familiar, soothing touch. His submission buzzed as Kurt's dominance grew stronger, wrapping around him. Kurt had purposely been trying to keep his dominance in check, not wanting to overwhelm Blaine when he was in such a vulnerable state. But the more Kurt ran his hands over the body he knew so well, the body he considered his property, the more his possessiveness and need to erase Sebastian's touch grew. Kurt wanted to make love to Blaine that night, but he knew he should wait until he had a better understanding of what Blaine had been through the past four months. He also wanted to wait until they were back home in their own bed.

Kurt helped Blaine out of the tub, dried him off, slathered lotion all over him, dressed him in boxers and a t-shirt from home and settled him in bed. He hurried through his moisturizing routine and was surprised to find Blaine still awake when he stepped out of the bathroom.

"Do you need something?"

Blaine shook his head, but his eyes were fearful, yet pleading. Kurt turned off the lights and slipped into bed. He wrapped his arms around Blaine and held him close. He completely released his dominance, allowing it to wrap tightly around Blaine. Blaine moaned and snuggled closer to Kurt.

My master. My real master.