Chapter 18

Michael Smythe smiled and shook Cooper's hand.

"Good to see you, Cooper. How have you been?"

"I've been...busy."

"I can imagine." Michael gestured to one of the leather chairs in front of his desk. "Please, have a seat. Can I get you a drink?"

Cooper shook his head. "No, thank you."

Michael sat down and looked Cooper over approvingly. He'd always been jealous of Victoria's luck to have a son as bright and level-headed as Cooper. Michael loved Sebastian, but he wished he were more like Cooper. Responsible. Accountable. Well behaved.

"So, I understand things with the expansion are going smoothly. Congratulations."

"That's true. Everything has gone very well...thanks in part to you."

Michael looked surprised. "Me? Not at all."

Cooper stared directly into his eyes. "Oh, no need to be modest. I know all about the money."

Michael frowned slightly before giving Cooper a reassuring smile. "It was a gift. No expectation of pay back. Nothing for you to worry about."

"Oh, I think there's plenty for me to worry about."

"Seriously, Cooper. There really isn't. I was happy to help."

"My brother is not for sale."

Michael's smile disappeared. "Excuse me?"

"I know all about your arrangement with my mother. You gave her the cash in exchange for Blaine, which makes no sense whatsoever because my mother could have financed everything all by herself. She's just a greedy bitch."

Michael stared at Cooper for a moment.

"You know what, Cooper? I'm going to forget you just said that. As a matter of fact, I'm going to pretend you didn't say it. Instead I'm going to offer you some advice. You have a brilliant mother. She's built an empire that will be all yours one day. Don't screw that up because of misplaced loyalty, or some hero, big brother bullshit. Thanks to me your empire just got a little bit bigger along with your bank account. As for your brother, I can assure you he's fine. Sebastian isn't the stupid, out of control, horny kid you remember from high school. I'm pleased to say he has surprised us all by growing up and getting his shit together. He and your brother are doing well. You have nothing to worry about. So, I suggest you leave and pretend we never had this meeting, and I promise not to mention it to your mother."

Cooper shook his head. "I want Blaine back with Kurt and I'm willing to negotiate to make it happen."

"It's too late. Blaine has already been claimed by Sebastian."

"He was claimed by Kurt and you and my mother didn't give a damn, so I don't see what that has to do with anything."

"My son is happy and I'm not going to ruin that. This is a good deal for you and your company. Let it go."

"And what about Blaine? Is this a good deal for him, or for Kurt?"

Michael shook his head in amusement. "Cooper, your brother is a slave. He'll be fine. Slaves always are. I promise you that he will have a wonderful life with Sebastian. Sebastian will spoil him rotten. He's always been in love with Blaine. I can assure you that my son will take good care of him."

"No. You don't know my brother. His needs are...unique. Sebastian will crush him. I want him back with Kurt."

"This has already been settled. Blaine is with Sebastian. It's a done deal."

Cooper leaned forward. "I don't think you want me as your enemy."

Michael was unimpressed.

"And I promise you don't want me as yours. Let this go, Cooper. Don't ruin a good thing. This is a win-win for everyone involved, including your brother."

"And Kurt?"

"Who cares? I tell ya what? If it makes you feel better, I'll have him cleared of the abuse charges and the records destroyed."

"You can do that?"

"Of course I can. Everyone has a price."

"Including you?"

Michael shook his head. "I've already paid my price, and in doing so I've helped your company. You should be grateful. Look, you and Lisa are coming to the party this weekend, right? Sebastian and Blaine will be there. You can see for yourself that your brother is just fine."

Michael stood up. "I have an 11:30 lunch meeting. As a favor to you I'll take care of the abuse allegations right away."

Cooper decided to take what he could get. For now. "I want a confirmation letter from the ministry sent to Kurt by the end of the week."

"Fine."

"We're not done discussing Sebastian releasing Blaine. Blaine belongs with Kurt."

Michael smiled. "I admire your loyalty, misplaced as it may be. I'll take care of the abuse allegations and we'll call it a deal."

Michael held out his hand. Cooper didn't take it.

L&C&L&C

Lisa was waiting for him at their hotel.

"Well?"

"I managed to get him to agree to clear Kurt's name of the abuse charges but..." Cooper's shoulders sagged.

"What?"

"He said Sebastian has already claimed Blaine."

"Oh, Cooper, no!"

Cooper nodded sadly. "I guess I shouldn't be surprised, but I was hoping...dammit!"

They sat in a sad silence for several minutes before Lisa spoke. "What now?"

Cooper shrugged. "Anna Smythe's big party is this weekend. Sebastian will be there with Blaine. I guess we'll see how he's doing. If he's okay then..." Cooper trailed off. He hated the idea of Blaine with Sebastian, even if Sebastian had gotten his act together. Kurt was better. He was good for Blaine. Kurt and Blaine belonged together.

"Cooper...do you think Kurt knows about Blaine? I mean the fact that he's been claimed? He did all that work on the appeal. Maybe you should tell him."

Cooper looked thoughtful. "Maybe that's why he hasn't called me back. Shit. He's probably heart broken."

Cooper laid back on the bed. Lisa lay beside him.

Cooper sighed heavily. "Fuck."

Sebastian fidgeted nervously as the Lincoln Towncar wound its way through Westerville towards his parent's house.

His head was a mess.

He was scared, nervous and stressed. He hated being back here. He'd tried to get out of attending his mother's party, but she'd been insistent. She hadn't seen him in a long time and both his mother and father wanted to see Blaine.

Sebastian had not told his parents about Tristan's return. He was too scared. He knew his mother would be thrilled because she'd always loved Tristan, but his father was going to have a fit. Sebastian didn't know all the details, but he was sure his father had paid a lot of money to get Blaine. He was going to be pissed.

Then there was his promise to Tristan to get his father to sign Blaine over to Kurt. Sebastian had no idea how he was going to get his father to agree. Adding to his stress was Tristan's shocking refusal to be claimed until Sebastian's father actually signed the papers and everything was confirmed.

"Tristan, I promise. I'll do everything I can."

"I didn't ask you to do everything you can. I asked you to make it happen. I won't let you claim me until it's done."

"Don't you trust me?"

Tristan narrowed his eyes.

Sebastian shook his head. "Don't answer that."

S&T&S&T

As the car pulled into the driveway, Tristan could feel Sebastian's anxiety.

"Relax, Sebastian. I have faith in you. I know you can do this."

Sebastian shook his head. "He's gonna have a fit. He already thinks I'm an immature fuck up. This is just gonna prove him right."

"That's not true. You've been doing a great job with JacqueLeTech, your project is going well, and the fact that you are trying to do the right thing shows real maturity and responsibility. Your father will see that."

"No, he won't. All he'll see is the money I cost him."

The car pulled to a stop in front of the huge home, but Sebastian made no move to get out. Tristan scooted closer to him and they sat in silence for several minutes. Sebastian suddenly turned to Tristan.

"How did you meet Kurt?"

Shit.

Tristan had been wondering when Sebastian would think to ask him about Kurt.

"We met at the grocery store. I was working and Kurt was shopping there."

"You had a job?"

"Of course I had a job. I didn't know when you would kick me out of the apartment. I had to be ready."

"I wasn't going to kick you out. I said you could stay. I would have never kicked you out."

"How was I supposed to trust you? You'd already done it once."

Sebastian looked at the floor. Guilt. It was a weight that never left him. He looked at Tristan with sad, guilt-ridden eyes.

"Will you ever be able to forgive me?"

Tristan smiled at him. "I already forgave you. I forgave you when I realized I couldn't hate you. My love for you forgave you."

Sebastian grabbed his hand. "Then accept my collar."

Tristan shook his head. "Not until you keep your promise."

Sebastian grew frustrated. "But why? Why is it so important to you that Blaine be with Kurt? I promise I don't want him. I only want you."

"You promised you would to do this for me."

"I know, and I'm gonna try, but...I don't understand why you care so much."

"Because, I owe Kurt. If it hadn't been for him..." Tristan trailed off.

Sebastian gave him a curious look. "If it hadn't been for him, what? What did he do?"

"Sebastian...what did you think would happen to my submission with no master? What did you think I would do?"

Sebastian's guilt weighed heavier. He said nothing. Tristan continued.

"You sent me that text telling me not to go to free clubs, but how did you expect me to stay away from them? Why do you think Royce was able to...have me? My submission was burning me alive. First the pain of losing my collar, and then the constant, aching, desperate hunger. I had to find a way to avoid the clubs and not get captured by some random master who reminded me of you. Kurt helped me."

Sebastian felt a twisted anger rising inside him as Tristan's words clicked inside his brain. It was an anger he knew he had no right to have, but it didn't matter. He'd always hated Kurt Hummel, and now Kurt Hummel had managed to fuck everyone he'd ever wanted. Past and present.

Tristan read his mind. He quickly clarified.

"We didn't have sex. He wouldn't sleep with me."

"So how did he help you?"

Tristan looked at the floor. "Are you sure you wanna know?"

Sebastian clenched his fists. "Yes."

"I served him. Every morning and every night. He let me spend the night with him so I could be a near a master. He would lay on top of me and cover me with his dominance, but he was kind and gentle. He's the reason I was able to stay out of the clubs. Kurt saved me."

Sebastian felt a myriad of emotions, the predominate one being anger. How dare his slave suck another master's dick? But as angry and disgusted as he was, he knew Tristan was right. Any other master would have taken advantage of the situation and raped the hell out of Tristan.

That's what your so-called best friend did.

You owe Kurt Hummel.

He owed him for taking Blaine, and he owed him for keeping Tristan safe.

He was in debt to fucking Kurt Hummel.

He opened the car door.

"Come on. Let's go in."

Miles away from Westerville, in New York City, Blaine Anderson was enjoying the excruciating, electric hell of his favorite new punishment as administered by the master he loved more than anything.

After the three days of bondage, Kurt decided they needed to relax. They spent all day Friday just hanging around the apartment. Blaine unpacked the trunk that never made it to him, while Kurt caught him up on all the Hollywood and Broadway gossip. They watched TV, read magazines, slow danced and kissed. That night they made slow, sweet love. So loving and sensuous, that Kurt began to cry silently as he stared into Blaine's eyes while slowly rocking into him. Kurt's tears caused tears to pool in Blaine's eyes as he felt the incredible warmth and emotion flowing from his master. They both came quietly, their bodies shaking with intense love and passion.

Saturday morning Kurt was thrilled to wake to the sounds of Tom & Jerry floating through the bedroom. His entire being filled with joy at the sight of Blaine sitting in bed, an empty cereal bowl in his lap, eyes glued to the TV screen, a small smile across his lips.

Chandler and Seth came over Saturday evening for pizza and wine. As the sounds of piano and guitar floated from the Broadway room, Kurt couldn't help but sigh contentedly. Chandler smiled.

"That sounds great."

"Yeah. I didn't realize just how much I missed the music."

"Not the music. You, sighing like that. It was a happy sigh instead of a depressed one. It's nice to see you happy."

Kurt smiled. "It's nice to be happy. I didn't think I would ever be happy again."

"Forgive me for asking, but have you heard from your friend? The one that's helping you get to keep Blaine."

Kurt nodded. "The person who had Blaine has agreed to help me get to keep him permanently. Now we have to wait and see how it goes."

Chandler nodded. He had several more questions, but didn't want to ruin Kurt's happy mood.

Kurt closed his eyes and let his head fall back. "Right now I have a more pressing problem."

"What?"

"Rehearsal. I have to go to rehearsal on Monday. I had to claim near death to convince Kevin to let me miss this week. I can't miss anymore rehearsals. The show opens in three weeks."

"So, you'll go to rehearsal. What's the problem?"

"I can't leave Blaine here alone and I can't take him with me. I don't know what I'm going to do on Monday."

"Couldn't Finn come over?"

"That would mean telling Rachel and I don't want to do that. Remember, no one is supposed to know he's back. I only told you and Seth because Seth figured it out."

The two sat there thinking as Blaine's piano playing floated through the apartment. As he listened Kurt had an idea.

Sunday morning he called Rick. He didn't tell him about Blaine right away. Instead he engaged him in conversation about how things were going, what he was working on, and did he still plan to finish the musical.

"Absolutely, but I could never write it without Blaine. It just wouldn't work. I'll wait till he's back. I'm confident that you will find a way to get him back."

"Well...actually...if you can keep a secret, I have some news."

Rick agreed to come over and stay with Blaine. He had other projects he was working on, but he figured Blaine could help. Once he finished, they could start working on the musical again. It meant there was one more person who knew Blaine was home, but Kurt felt like he had no choice.

Blaine was thrilled. He spent the rest of the day reviewing what they'd written before he left, and trying to think of new ideas.

Kurt was proud of himself for thinking to call Rick, but as he cleaned up the kitchen after dinner, he started to feel a little nervous.

Blaine knows he's your slave. His submission to you is strong. Yes, Rick's a master, but he doesn't want Blaine. You're not even sure he's gay. There's nothing to worry about.

Kurt wiped down the counters and swept the kitchen.

Blaine submitted to Sebastian after being locked away with him for four months. His submission was starved and he was mind fucked. What exactly do you think is going to happen in just a few hours?

Kurt took the trash to the garbage chute in the hall.

Blaine belongs to you. His submission is yours and yours alone. No, he's probably not 100% recovered, but...

Kurt stood in the middle of the kitchen. A possessive stirring began to slow boil in the pit of his stomach. His need for control suddenly spiked. He walked into the bedroom. Blaine was sitting in the middle of the bed, surrounded by music and writing books. He looked up at Kurt.

Whoa.

Blaine scurried off the bed and fell to his knees, forehead to the floor.

"Up on your knees."

Blaine rose to his knees, head down, eyes on the floor. Damn. He could feel Kurt's power and control, heavy and strong. Kurt slid his fingers into Blaine's hair and spoke very quietly, his voice dripping with command.

"I want to remind you who your submission belongs to. Who your orgasms belong to."

Blaine didn't dare look up. He barely breathed. His voice was a whisper. "Yes sir."

"I'm going to let you decide how I should remind you. What would you like?"

Blaine licked his lips. "Please whip me, sir."

Kurt smiled. Chandler had warned him about this.

"You know I can't do that. We have to let your back heal. It's too soon."

Blaine hung his head lower. "I'm sorry, sir."

"Is there anything else you'd like?"

There was something Blaine had been thinking about. He took a deep breath.

"Sir, are there really electrodes on the sack sling?"

Kurt raised his eyebrows in surprise. "Yes, there are."

Blaine looked up and smiled shyly.

15 minutes later he was chained to the wall, wincing and releasing small cries and screams every few minutes when Kurt pushed the button to deliver strong, short shocks to his balls. Kurt set the dial to automatically shock him every 30 seconds. He dropped to his knees and took Blaine's cock into his mouth, slowly sucking it down before slowly dragging up. He sped up until his head was bobbing up and down as he sucked hard, wet and strong. Blaine wailed from the intense sensations coursing through his cock and balls. Kurt could feel Blaine nearing his orgasm. He sped up and sucked harder. Blaine started to beg.

"Please...ugh...please, sir...may I come?"

Kurt pulled off. "No."

Blaine clenched his fists and yelled as a series of shocks rippled through his balls as Kurt sunk his mouth back down his cock.

"Ohhhh...please, sir! Please!"

Kurt pursed his lips and slowly pulled off. "No." He sank back down quickly and bobbed up and down, working the cock in his mouth until Blaine was screaming.

"Please! Please! Ohhhh...shit! Please master! Please!"

"No." Kurt changed the setting to shock Blaine every 15 seconds. He poured some lube on his fingers and took Blaine's cock back into his mouth. He sucked hard for a minute before sliding two fingers into Blaine's ass.

Blaine fell apart. He screamed and pulled at the chains as his body shook and his cock quivered.

"Master! Master...please! Please! Permission to come! Permission please!"

Kurt stroked the cock with a few more sucks before pulling off. He stood up and took Blaine's head tightly between his hands, staring deeply into his eyes.

"You may not come. Not one drop. Your orgasms belong to me. The cum that pours from your body does so only at my discretion."

Blaine nodded, his eyes wide, shining and swirling with sexual stress and submission. Kurt leaned in and began kissing him. Blaine winced from the electric shocks, while simultaneously moaning into Kurt's mouth. Kurt kept him trapped in long wet kisses for several minutes as he continued sliding his fingers in and out of Blaine's ass. He added two more fingers and Blaine was sure he was going to break.

Kurt finally turned off the electricity. Blaine sagged in relief, but his cock was still rock hard and quivering. Kurt kissed his way down Blaine's chest before dropping to his knees to swallow his cock once more. He slid his fingers back into Blaine's ass. After two minutes he pulled off and looked up.

"Come, Blaine. Come hard."

Blaine's orgasm tore through his body. Kurt moaned as he swallowed. The orgasm left Blaine completely drained, but Kurt wasn't done with him. He reached up and unchained his wrists, but kept him pressed into the wall. He pressed into him for five minutes before whispering in his ear, "Lift your leg. Wrap it around me." Blaine immediately understood. He lifted his leg, adding a slight jump. Kurt caught his leg and pressed him even tighter against the wall for leverage. Blaine managed to get his other leg up and around Kurt. Kurt maneuvered until his cock was aligned with Blaine's ass. He dipped down slightly and then thrust up hard with a loud grunt. Blaine hissed and wrapped his arms tightly around Kurt's neck as Kurt began fucking up into him. He sped up as he found his rhythm, driving his cock into Blaine as he slammed him against the wall.

Kurt fucked hard, thrusting strong and deep until his cum flowed hot and thick, shooting into Blaine's ass. Blaine didn't release his tight grip until Kurt slowly lowered him to the floor. They kissed softly. Lazy, wet kisses. Kurt nuzzled Blaine's neck and sucked lightly. Blaine moaned. "You. I submit only to you, sir. Only you." Blaine's words made Kurt smile and feel better about Monday. Blaine was his and his alone.

"I want you to give back the money."

"What?"

"Give back the money. Tell Smythe you want Blaine back. Give him his money back in exchange for Blaine."

Victoria looked at Cooper as if he had three heads.

"Are you insane? I'm not giving Michael anything. We made a deal."

"It was a stupid deal! First of all, you could've financed this expansion by yourself. Why are you being so stingy with your own damn company? Second, this isn't fair. This isn't fair to Blaine or Kurt. You tore them apart for no reason. Give Blaine back to Kurt."

Victoria stood up and walked to the closet. She needed to pack for her trip back to Westerville for Anna Smythe's party.

"Cooper, Michael has assured me that Blaine is just fine. He's living with Sebastian in Paris, and he's fine. Let it go."

"You don't know that! You remember what Sebastian was like..."

"Oh, my God, Cooper! Get over it! It's a done deal!"

Cooper stared at his mother. For the first time in his life, he didn't like her much.

He stood up. "I guess I'll see you at the party this weekend."

Victoria reached out and took Cooper's hand.

"Darling, I know you think I'm a monster, but trust me. Blaine is fine. He's still my son. Do you really think I would give him to someone who would hurt him? I promise you he's fine. Blaine and Sebastian should have been together in the first place. I never should have agreed to let him be with Kurt, but...well I needed Burt Hummel's help, and since Blaine wanted to be with Kurt, I allowed it. Now things are the way they should be. You'll see. Anna said Sebastian and Blaine are coming from Paris for the party. You'll get to see Blaine and talk to him and see how happy he is. He's a slave. Slaves are always happy with their master."

"And if he's unhappy? What will you do then?"

Victoria let go of his hand and turned back to the closet. "That won't be the case. Blaine will be...is fine."

Cooper glared at her. "You keep convincing yourself of that."

He turned and left.

Monday morning Kurt watched nervously as Rick happily hugged Blaine.

"How are you, buddy? Boy have I missed you."

Blaine was all happy, bubbling excitement. "I'm good. I'm back home, so I'm good. Great actually. Hey, I spent last night reading over everything and I think we should make a few changes, and I have a new idea for..."

Kurt couldn't help but smile as he watched Blaine drag Rick to the Broadway room. Why was he ever worried?

He cleared the kitchen table, checked his bag and prepared to leave.

"Blaine?"

Blaine came quickly. Kurt looked into his eyes.

"Who is your master, Blaine?"

"You sir. Only you. Always you." Kurt nodded and patted Blaine's crotch. He had placed him in a new, heavier, tighter cock cage. Blaine was grateful. He loved feeling so locked up by his master.

"That's right. I own you. Papers or not, you belong to me. Your submission belongs to me. Never give it to anyone else again."

"Yes sir."

Kurt glanced at his watch. Troy would be waiting. He leaned over and kissed Blaine softly.

"I love you."

"I love you."

"Have a good day."

He watched as Blaine bounced back to the Broadway room. Rick was lounging against the door frame, watching.

"I promise to take care of him, Kurt. Don't worry."

Kurt nodded, but his eyes were full of worry. Now that he had Blaine back, he was scared to let him out of his sight.

"Don't answer the door. If anyone shows up here, call me. Especially if they're from the Ministry. Maybe this is a bad idea. He's only be home a week. I really shouldn't leave him. Maybe..."

"Kurt! Stop! He'll be fine. We will be fine. I promise. I won't let anything happen to him. Now go. I've already bought my ticket and I expect to see Kurt Hummel on stage, not some understudy. Everything will be fine."

Kurt took a deep breath and nodded. "Okay. Sorry. I just...I can't lose him again. I can't and I'm scared that the moment the Ministry finds out he's back, they'll send someone to take him and I can't...I can't go through that again."

"I know. I understand. Don't worry. Go. I expect an amazing performance for the cost of my ticket."

Kurt smiled. "I would have gotten you a ticket." Rick waved his hand.

"Broadway shows need every dime they can get. Now go. You're going to be late."

Kurt forced himself to leave the apartment. Troy was waiting downstairs.

"Good to see you, Kurt. I hope you're feeling better?"

"Yes. Thank you." Kurt reminded himself that he needed to pretend he'd been sick.

The further they got from the apartment, the worse Kurt felt. What if the Ministry showed up and forced their way in? Why hadn't he heard from Tristan? Was Tristan okay? What if Sebastian was punishing him, and not in the good way? What if Sebastian's father refused to release Blaine? Then what?

By the time they reached the theater, Kurt's stomach was twisted in knots and his head was throbbing. This was a bad idea. He shouldn't have left Blaine. Things were too unsettled and dangerous. He was about to tell Troy to take him back home when he spotted a black limousine parked in front of them. The license plate said Ramken2.

Ramken2. Ramken Industries. Victoria.

Kurt's heart stopped. Then he saw someone get out.

Cooper.

Kurt jumped out of the car.

"Cooper!"

"Kurt!"

Kurt stood in shocked surprise as Cooper ran over to him and hugged him.

"Hey! How are you? I've been so worried about you. Are you okay?"

Kurt felt confused and cautious. He still wasn't sure if Cooper was friend or foe.

"Um, I'm okay, I guess. How are you?"

"I'm better, but I'm still recovering. Siberia was a bitch. Just like my mother. I don't think I'll ever be able to handle cold weather again."

"What are you doing here?"

"I...I wanted to help you get Blaine back, but...I think I might be too late. I'm sorry. I didn't get your messages until I returned. I went to see Michael Smythe, but he said Blaine was already claimed by Sebastian. I did get him to agree to have your name cleared of the abuse charges, but that still doesn't help us with Blaine. Before all this happened, I would have thought it would be impossible for us to get him back since he has a collar, but now...after what they did to you, I say fuck the collar. We can still figure something out. We just need to come up with a plan. My brother belongs with you, Kurt. He needs you. You're good for him, and I promise to do everything I can to help you get him back!"

Kurt stood there with his mouth open. He shut it and tried to figure out what to say. Obviously Cooper didn't know Blaine was back home. Should he tell him? Could he trust him? What if he was really here to get information for his mother and Michael Smythe?

"Oh, shit. I'm sorry, Kurt. Don't you have rehearsal right now? I was planning to wait until you had a break."

Kurt looked towards the doors of the theater.

"Um, yeah. Uh, Cooper..."

"Yes?"

Kurt just stood there. Should he take a chance? He decided to go for it. Cautiously.

"Um...you said Michael Smythe is going to have the abuse allegations cleared?"

"Yes. I told him I want proof by the end of the week."

"But what does Michael Smythe have to do with the charges?"

"I'm sure he paid someone to make them. Probably to make it easier for my mother to take Blaine. It wasn't necessary. Parental privilege through a rescind order trumps all. They just wanted to screw you over."

Kurt stared into his eyes. He seemed genuinely upset.

Maybe he was on the level.

"Why did your mother do this? Why did she take Blaine away from me?"

"It was a business deal. Blaine in exchange for the cash she needed for the expansion into Europe. She's a greedy bitch. She could have financed it herself. I'm so sorry, Kurt. This entire thing is a fucked up mess, but we'll get him back. I promise. I hate Sebastian. I don't care if he's changed. No one changes that much. He'll crush Blaine into nothing. I won't let that happen."

Kurt decided to trust him. He glanced at the theater doors again. He felt horrible, but this was more important.

"Let's go for a ride."

C&B&C&B

"Cooper!"

"Blaine!"

The two brothers hugged each other tightly. On the way back to the apartment, Kurt told Cooper everything that had happened. Cooper was impressed.

"This is why Blaine belongs with you. Many masters would have gone into mourning and then gone on the prowl for a new slave."

The four men sat in the living room to talk. Rick eyed Cooper suspiciously.

"Where have you been?"

Cooper explained about being sent to Siberia. Rick looked dubious. "Your mother sounds crazy." Cooper and Blaine looked at each, but said nothing.

Kurt looked at Cooper hopefully. "Now what?

Cooper looked thoughtful. "Well...I guess the showdown will be this weekend. I'll be at the Smythe's party and I guess Sebastian and Tristan will be there too. I guess we'll gang up on Michael and try to get him to sign the papers."

Blaine looked scared. "But...will that be it? Could mom block it?"

Cooper frowned. "I don't think so. She basically sold you to him. He can do whatever he wants with you."

Cooper's words hung in the air, casting a pall of fear and apprehension in the apartment. Blaine scooted closer to Kurt as renewed fear took root inside his brain. He couldn't lose Kurt again. He couldn't go through the heartache, and fear, and terror again, and he definitely couldn't go back to Sebastian. He wouldn't survive another separation.

Similar thoughts were running through Kurt's head as he wrapped his arm around Blaine's waist and stroked his purr spot. If things didn't work out this weekend, they would run.

Kurt reluctantly left to go to the theater. He'd been ignoring his vibrating cell phone. There were five missed calls and three angry texts, all from Kevin. Kurt was sure that any other director would have fired him by now.

K&B&K&B

That night he and Blaine lay in bed, on their sides, staring into each others eyes. Words weren't necessary.

I love you.

I love you.

You belong to me.

And only to you, master.

I promise with every fiber of my being, with every breath I take, that I will never, ever, ever, let you go again. Ever.

"Mom?" Sebastian looked around the living room nervously.

Tristan took a deep breath and inhaled the familiar, comfortable smell of the Smythe home. He loved this house. The Smythe's had always made him feel welcome. Michael Smythe liked him because he was good for Sebastian, while Anna simply thought he was the best looking man she'd ever seen. They'd always been loving and kind towards him, but he wondered what they would think of him now after everything with Blaine.

"Mom?"

Anna Smythe came down the stairs. "Oh, Sebastian!" She quickly ran to him, kissed his cheek and threw her arms around him. Sebastian couldn't help but close his eyes and smile. Despite everything, his mother always loved him.

Anna stood back a bit and looked him over. "You haven't been eating enough. Isn't John still with you? And what on earth happened to your face?"

"Uh, yeah. He's still there. I'm fine mom. Really. It's nothing."

Anna was about to protest when she noticed Tristan.

"Tristan!" Tristan smiled and accepted her warm embrace.

"Hello Anna."

"Oh, Tristan, you look lovely. Always so beautiful. I'm so happy to see you, but..." Anna looked at Sebastian in confusion. "I thought..." Sebastian quickly cut her off.

"Is dad home?"

Anna frowned. "No. He's such a workaholic. He's still in New York, but he promised to be back in time for the party."

Sebastian exhaled. He had at least one more day before he had to face his father. Tristan linked his arm with Anna's.

"Tell me all about the party and show me what you've done since I was last here."

Sebastian gave him a grateful smile as his mother started in on all the party details, dragging Tristan to the kitchen. Tristan looked back at him fondly. Sebastian grabbed their bags and headed upstairs to his room.

S&T&S&T

That night Tristan tried to refuse Sebastian's sexual advances, but he lost. He'd been trying to hold out until he was collared again, and Sebastian had actually been trying to wait as well, but they both succumbed to the strong, passion burning between them. Being in Sebastian's room overwhelmed Tristan's senses. The air felt thick and full of Sebastian's essence and dominance. It was a smaller, more confined space than the condo, and Tristan felt choked by Sebastian's presence. He couldn't resist him, especially since he had missed Sebastian so desperately during their separation.

They made love throughout the night. Tristan drowned over and over from the feel of his former master thrusting hard into his ass, making it clear who he belonged to, collar or not.

As Tristan slept soundly in his arms, Sebastian worried about tomorrow.

He couldn't lose Tristan. How was he going to pull this off?

Cooper rolled over and felt around the nightstand for his phone. He snatched it up and answered groggily, not bothering to see who was calling.

"Yeah, hello?"

"Cooper? Darling, where are you? I thought you and Lisa were flying in last night."

"We did. We're at a hotel."

"A hotel? Why on earth would you stay at a hotel? Come home."

"No thanks."

Victoria sighed in annoyance. "Honestly, Cooper. Come home. You and Lisa have no business staying in a hotel when you are five minutes from your home. Check out and come on over. We'll have lunch, rest up and then head to the Smythe party together."

"No thanks. We'll just see you there."

A few moments of silence passed.

"Cooper...is this about Blaine? Are you really this upset about him and Sebastian?"

"Nope."

"Then why won't you come home?"

"See you tonight, mother." Cooper hung up.

Victoria placed her phone on the desk and looked out the window.

She felt strangely alone.

Kurt sat at the kitchen table sipping coffee and thinking. Tristan had sent him a text.

Will finally see Sebastian's father today. Sebastian is nervous, but determined. I told him about our helping each other. Have you told Blaine?

Kurt thought about this. As a slave, it made sense that Tristan would tell Sebastian. As a master, Kurt had no obligation to tell Blaine anything, but he planned to.

Eventually.

For now his mind was focused on coming up with a plan B in case things didn't work out. If Michael Smythe refused to sign the papers, or Victoria tried to interfere, they would run. This time there would be no turning back. He could not, and would not lose Blaine again.

Kurt opened a drawer, took out a pad of paper, and began making a list.

They needed to be prepared.

The next morning Sebastian woke up and immediately felt sick. He could feel his father's presence in the house.

Shit. Fuck. Shit.

He looked over at Tristan. As he watched the rise and fall of his chest, Sebastian swore to himself that he would never lose Tristan again. If his father refused to give Blaine to Kurt, he would find a way to make Tristan stay, even if it meant collaring him against his will.

Sebastian bent down and kissed Tristan's shoulder, working his way down his arm. Tristan opened his eyes and turned towards him.

"Good morning."

"Good morning. This will probably be the last good thing about today."

Tristan smiled sexily and batted his long eyelashes. "In that case, let me make sure it's a really good morning."

Sebastian rolled on to his back and Tristan crawled between his legs. He licked and sucked slowly, drawing it out as long as possible until Sebastian filled his mouth. He swallowed and moved up Sebastian's body, snuggling into his arms. Sebastian held him tight.

"I love you so much."

"I know."

S&T&S&T

Sebastian gripped Tristan's hand tightly as they headed towards the kitchen. Sebastian took a deep breath and they walked in.

"Good morning, dear." Anna looked at him nervously and then glanced at Michael.

"Morning."

Michael Smythe looked up from his paper. "Morning Sebastian. How..."

Michael's eyes landed on Tristan. Tristan moved closer to Sebastian and waited. Michael narrowed his eyes and stared at Sebastian. He didn't say a word. He shifted his gaze back to Tristan who stared at the floor.

Sebastian cleared his throat. "Obviously we need to talk."

Michael's voice was so cold, Tristan was sure he felt cool air blow across his skin.

"I can see that. My study. Now."

Sebastian turned, still holding Tristan's hand tightly.

"Alone."

Sebastian dragged Tristan upstairs and into his father's study.

"Sebastian, your father said alone!"

"I don't care. I want you here. I need you here."

"I don't wanna make this worse."

"You won't. I can't do..."

Michael walked in, slamming the door behind him. His eyes fired lasers at Tristan.

"I said alone."

Sebastian gripped Tristan's hand. "I want him here. This is as much about him as it is about me."

Michael stared at Sebastian with barely controlled rage.

"Do you mind telling me what the fuck is going on? Where's Blaine?" Michael noticed the fading bruises on Sebastian's face. "And what the hell happened to your face?"

"Things between Blaine and I weren't working out, so I sent him back to Kurt Hummel. Tristan agreed to forgive me, so..."

Michael sneered. "Things weren't working out?"

Sebastian wasn't sure how to respond. "Um, no. They weren't, but...I also realized that Tristan is the only one I want. I love him, so..."

"Well isn't that just wonderful, but you forgot something. Blaine was not, and is not yours to give. I paid for him and you never collared him, so ownership never transferred to you. He's my property and I intend to keep him."

"Wh-what?"

Michael reached for his cell phone. "I'm calling the Ministry to have him picked up."

Sebastian snatched the phone from his father. "Wait a minute! What are you talking about?"

His father glared at him. "I'm talking about collecting what's mine! I paid a lot of money for that boy. You can keep Tristan. I really don't care, but I want my property. Now give me my phone!"

Sebastian jumped back. "No! Wait! That...that doesn't make sense! Why do you want him?"

"Because I paid for him."

"But...what would you do with him?"

Michael smiled wickedly. "Sometimes business deals need a little something extra. Blaine might prove helpful. Masters like super submissive slaves."

Tristan gasped and grabbed Sebastian's arm. "No! Please, Sebastian..."

Sebastian shook his head. "No. You can't do that to Blaine. Just give him back to Kurt. Sign him over to him and let it go."

"And lose my investment? Just when I thought your business acumen was improving, you say dumb shit like that. Now give me my phone and get out!"

Sebastian backed up towards the door shaking his head. "No. You can't do this. You can't. Just give him to Kurt, dad. Please? Just give him to Kurt."

Michael walked around his desk and lunged towards Sebastian. "Gimme my fucking phone!"

"No!"

Tristan thought Michael was about to punch Sebastian. He jumped in front of him. "No! Stop!"

"Get outta my way!"

"No! Leave him alone!"

"How dare you! Move!" Michael shoved Tristan into the wall. Every master cell in Sebastian's body caught fire. Possession and ownership burned through his body.

"Don't you fucking touch him!"

"Give me my phone!"

"No!"

Michael lunged towards Sebastian again. Tristan screamed. "Stop!"

The door suddenly burst open. Anna ran in, tears rolling down her cheeks.

"Stop it! Stop it! You're ruining my party day!"

Just like that Michael shifted into protective master mode.

"Oh, beautiful, I'm so sorry. Don't cry." He pulled her to him and held her, kissing her face and speaking lovingly.

"Shh, it's okay darling. Your party will be wonderful. I'm so sorry we upset you."

"Stop fighting with each other! This can wait until tomorrow."

Michael nodded and kissed Anna's cheeks repeatedly. "Yes, yes. Of course, my dear. Come on." Michael turned to glare at Sebastian and Tristan.

"This conversation is over."

"No it's not!"

Anna tugged Michael's arm. "Please, no more arguing."

Michael allowed Anna to pull him down the hall leaving Sebastian and Tristan standing in his office. Sebastian grabbed Tristan's hand and dragged him to his bedroom. He pushed him inside and slammed the door. He started pacing.

"Sebastian..."

"I know! I know! I told you this wouldn't be easy!" Sebastian felt desperate and out of control. How had everything turned into such a fucking mess?

Tristan sat down heavily on the bed and watched Sebastian pacing the floor. Maybe he should call Kurt and warn him that things weren't going well, especially since Michael mentioned calling the Ministry.

Sebastian suddenly opened a window and threw his father's phone. It landed with a breaking crash on the driveway below. He turned to Sebastian.

"This is stupid. I can't make him do anything. I never should have promised you I would." Sebastian pulled Tristan up and pushed him against the wall.

"Sebastian!"

"Shut up! Enough! I'm the master. You're the slave. I make the rules. Not you. You belong to me. You've always belonged to me."

Tristan shook his head. "No! Not anymore. I'm not staying with you. If you don't make this happen, I'm leaving."

Sebastian flashed a wicked smile. "Oh, really? And where will you go? What will you do? Kurt doesn't need you anymore. He has Blaine." Sebastian grabbed Tristan's hands and pinned them above his head. "I don't think you're going anywhere."

Tristan tried to pull free but Sebastian had always been stronger.

"You promised me! You promised!"

"Yeah, well. Things change, don't they."

Sebastian pressed his body into Tristan. Tristan tried to resist, but it was futile. His body craved Sebastian, collared or not. His resolve melted as Sebastian closed his mouth over Tristan's, kissing him hot and passionate. Tristan gave in with a moan. Sebastian kissed him for several minutes before pushing him to his knees. He took out his cock and shoved it roughly into Tristan's mouth. He grabbed Tristan's hair and wrapped it around his hand to hold his head tight as he fucked his mouth until he pulled out and came all over Tristan's face. He stared down at him for a moment, feeling strangely pleased by the sight of Tristan's brown skin covered in white cum. Sebastian took off his shirt and cleaned Tristan's face before pulling him to his feet and dragging him to the bed. Tristan stood there feeling dazed and overwhelmed. Sebastian quickly undressed him and then finished undressing himself. He pushed Tristan down on the bed and lay on top of him. He could feel Tristan's body give in and give itself over to his dominance.

"I love you, and I will claim you as mine."

Tristan said nothing. He couldn't.

Guests began arriving for Anna Smythe's End of Summer Party around 5:00 pm. By 6:00 pm there was a large gathering of casually, yet stylishly dressed wealthy, drinking cocktails and sneakily eating food from the grand buffet, lest anyone see them actually eat. Sebastian and Tristan stood inside the doorway to the backyard, freshly showered and dressed in khakis and crisp, clean shirts. Sebastian's blue, Tristan's pink. Sebastian wrapped his arm protectively around Tristan's waist. Tristan leaned into him.

He could barely walk.

Or think clearly.

They'd been locked in Sebastian's room all day.

Tristan had been thoroughly fucked. Both mentally and physically.

Sebastian's stress, fear and desperation had taken over. He was terrified of losing Tristan, so he screwed his ass and mind all day, preying upon every fear and insecurity a slave could have.

"How come no other master took you while you were in New York? No one wants you but me. No one. Keep refusing me and you'll end up alone."

"That's not true! Even your best friend wanted me!"

"Yeah. To fuck. He didn't wanna claim you. Sure you're beautiful, but you're not special. There are plenty of beautiful slaves in the world. Slaves who are younger and prettier than you. Keep fucking with me and I'll let you go. Then what? You'll end up enslaved by some asshole who will pimp you out to all his friends."

"No I won't!"

"Oh, yes you will!

"You won't really let me go!"

"Try me!"

"Fine!"

Tristan ran for the door. Sebastian easily stopped him.

And fucked him until he passed out.

Sebastian held Tristan's hand tightly as they headed towards the bar. Tristan struggled to clear his head and focus. He felt weak and disoriented from Sebastian's dominance being fucked into him all day. He could not let Sebastian overpower him. If he didn't get his father to sign the papers, he was leaving.

Right?

Sebastian ordered a Rum and Coke and handed Tristan a Sprite. He surveyed the crowd of his parent's friends. Why the hell had his mother wanted him back for this? He quickly downed his drink and turned to ask for a refill.

"We need to talk."

He turned around to see Cooper Anderson staring at him in disgust. What the hell was he doing here?

"No we don't. I don't have your brother anymore."

"Did your father agree to sign the papers?"

Sebastian looked at him in surprise. How did he know about that? "No."

"Tell him I wanna talk to him."

"Tell him yourself." Sebastian turned back around. Tristan suddenly moved next to Cooper.

"If you don't help, I'm leaving."

Sebastian glared at him. "Come here!"

Tristan's submission burned at the command in Sebastian's voice, but he fought it back down. "No!"

A few people glanced in their direction.

Sebastian lowered his voice. "I'm not doing this shit with you. Get over here."

Cooper pushed Tristan behind him. "Still raping slaves, I see?"

"I never...look, I can't help you. I tried. Ask him. I tried, but my father's not going for it. He wants to keep Blaine."

Cooper narrowed his eyes. "Keep him for what?"

"What do you think? Not all businessmen are straight. You figure it out."

Cooper felt a little sick. He shook his head. "This mess is all your fault, so you're helping me. Come on."

Cooper took hold of Tristan's arm and started steering him through the crowd looking for Michael. Sebastian angrily followed.

Michael was laughing and chatting with a couple when he spotted the three headed his way. He quickly excused himself and walked towards the house. Cooper followed. Michael stopped in the kitchen, turned and hissed at him.

"Not here, not now."

Cooper shook his head. "Right here, right now."

Michael seethed. "Upstairs."

As they headed towards the stairs, Victoria and Alex walked through the front door. Victoria spotted Cooper walking up the stairs.

"Cooper?"

Cooper ignored her. Lisa suddenly came down the hall.

"Lisa, what's going on?"

Lisa smiled sweetly. "Hello Victoria." She headed upstairs.

"Lisa? Lisa!"

Victoria turned to Alex. "Go enjoy yourself. I'll meet you shortly." She quickly ran up the stairs and followed Lisa into Michael's office. She looked around.

"What's going on? Where's Blaine?"

No one answered her.

"Michael, where is my son?"

"Apparently he's in New York with his former master."

"What? How? Why?"

"Doesn't matter. I'm having him picked up by the Ministry and brought here."

Victoria looked at Sebastian. "I thought he was with you!" Sebastian said nothing.

Victoria felt a little panicked. "What the hell is going on?"

Cooper glared at her. "Blaine is fine. He's with Kurt in New York. I saw him before coming here. He's fine. He's happy. He's where he should be."

Michael shook his head. "No. He should be here. He's my property. I paid for him and I want him."

Victoria looked completely confused. "I don't understand. How did he end up back with Kurt?"

Cooper shot an evil look at Sebastian. "Sebastian changed his mind and decided he didn't want Blaine anymore."

Victoria looked at Michael. "So...why do you want him?"

"Because I paid for him and I still own him. Sebastian had no right to give him away."

"But what will you do with him?"

"Not your concern."

Victoria looked taken aback. "I suppose that's true...but I'd still like to know what your plans are."

"None of your business."

"Michael, tell me what you plan to do with my son!"

"Relax. I paid a lot of money for him, remember? He's valuable to me. He'll be fine. Slaves always are."

"I need to know what you plan to do with him because I don't understand why you still want him."

Michael smirked. "Are you saying you want him back? That's fine assuming you plan to return my money."

Victoria was quiet. Cooper exploded. "What's wrong with you? What kind of mother are you? Pay him and get Blaine back!"

"Shut up! You don't know what you're saying? Do you have any idea what that would do to..."

"Do to what, mother? Do to your precious cash flow? What about Blaine? What the hell is wrong with you?"

"Shut up!"

"Give him the money!"

"No!"

"Yes!"

The two started screaming at each other. Sebastian pleaded with his father.

"Dad...just give him to Kurt. Please? There's no good reason for you to keep him. Just release him to Kurt."

"Not until I get my investment back."

Cooper and Victoria continued screaming at each other.

"I quit!"

"You can't quit! This is a family company!"

"You're not my family anymore!"

Cooper turned to Michael. "I'll make you a deal. You sign Blaine over to Kurt and I'll come work for you."

Victoria turned pale. "What?"

Cooper kept going. "I'll bring clients with me. I guarantee you'll make your money back in one year with the clients I bring in. Release Blaine and I'll join your company."

"Cooper! What are you doing?"

Cooper ignored her. "Well? Do we have a deal?"

Michael looked thoughtful. Victoria was about to explode.

"Cooper! Stop it! You can't do this!"

Cooper continued ignoring her. "Well?"

Michael held out his hand. "Deal."

"Cooper!"

Cooper didn't shake his hand. Instead, Lisa handed him the release papers.

Michael sat down and took out a pen.

Victoria grabbed Cooper's arm. "You can't do this to me! Don't do this!"

Cooper wrenched his arm away. "You did this to yourself!"

"Cooper...please...I love you. You're my son."

"So is Blaine."

Victoria turned angry. "How could you do this to me? After everything I've done for you. Everything I've built for you. You ungrateful..."

"Shut up! I don't care!"

"You won't get away with this! Do you hear me? Those clients you plan to take with you? By the time I'm done, they won't take your calls, emails, texts, nothing! They'll forget you even exist!"

Cooper ignored her and watched Michael signing away.

"Michael, how could you do this to me?"

"It's not personal, Victoria. Strictly business."

"You will regret this! Do you hear me? Both of you!"

Michael signed the final page and handed the documents to Cooper. Cooper scanned them quickly and nodded.

"I'd like to start in three weeks."

Michael smiled and nodded. "That's fine."

Cooper took Lisa's hand and turned to leave. Victoria stopped him. For the first time in his life, Cooper saw desperation in his mother's eyes.

"Don't do this, Cooper. If it means this much to you...I'll...I'll pay to get Blaine back. Just...please...don't do this to me."

Cooper shook his head. "The sad thing mother, is that Blaine doesn't mean enough to you. All you've ever cared about is business. Money. Well, now you can have all of it. I don't want any of it. I'm done."

"Cooper, I love you!"

"No, you don't. You don't love me or Blaine."

"That's not true! I've always loved you!"

"No! You love that I'm a master. You love that I can successfully run businesses and make money. If I was a slave, would you still love me, or would you have thrown me away like you did Blaine?"

Victoria opened her mouth to speak but then closed it. She didn't have an answer. Cooper shook his head.

"Goodbye mother."

"Cooper!"

Cooper and Lisa left.

Victoria turned on Michael. "I will get you for this! Do you hear me? You are going to regret this!"

Michael shook his head. "Come on, Victoria. I told you. This isn't personal. Just business. It's always been about business. Let's go downstairs and have a drink."

"Fuck you!" Victoria turned and stormed out.

Michael stepped from around his desk. "Well, I'd better get back downstairs. Your mother is probably wondering where I am."

Sebastian and Tristan were left standing alone in the middle of the office. They had watched everything in stunned silence.

Sebastian turned to Tristan. "Um...well...it looks like Blaine will get to stay with Kurt."

Tristan nodded.

Sebastian suddenly looked nervous. "I didn't exactly make it happen, but it's done."

Tristan nodded again.

Sebastian looked into Tristan's eyes. "I'm sorry for earlier today." He sighed heavily. "I just...I can't lose you, Tristan. I can't. I just can't. Please...I just felt so desperate and..."

Tristan leaned over and shut him up with a kiss.

"I love you, and yes...I'll stay."

Sebastian sighed in relief and smiled. "I love you, too. I really don't deserve you."

Tristan grinned. "No. You don't."

Sebastian pulled him close and kissed him again.

"Nevertheless...I promise...never again...I'll never let you go."

Sunday evening Cooper and Lisa delivered the signed release papers to Kurt. Kurt stared at them in disbelief.

"Are you serious? Are you sure?"

Cooper beamed. "Absolutely. Go to the Ministry offices in the morning and have them certified and filed. That's it. It's done. Blaine belongs to you. Permanently."

Blaine looked worried. "But what about mom?"

"What about her?"

"Could she issue another rescind order?"

Cooper shook his head. "No. When she gave you to Michael, she signed away all rights, including the right to issue a rescind order. She handed you over to him completely." Cooper paused and closed his eyes for a moment. "I can't believe she did that. Just...gave you away so easily with no concern for your needs. I'm so sorry Blaine."

Blaine shrugged. It didn't matter. He'd learned his place with his mother years ago. It didn't surprise him, and it didn't matter.

Cooper continued. "That forfeiture of rescind rights follows to Kurt. I made sure it was in the release papers. Neither she, nor Michael Smythe can ever try to get you back."

Kurt kept staring at the papers. "But I still don't understand. Why would Michael Smythe agree to this?"

Cooper smiled. "Because I agreed to work for him."

"What?"

"I told him I would work for him."

"You're going to work for Michael Smythe?"

"Of course not."

"Huh?"

"I lied."

Kurt and Blaine stared at him. "What?"

"I told him I would come work for him and even bring along some clients, but I lied. I'd never work for a criminal asshole like Michael Smythe."

Kurt's heart started racing. "Cooper! What happens when you don't go work for him? He's gonna come looking for you!"

"No he won't."

"Why not?"

Lisa took out a thumb drive out of her purse and tossed it to Kurt. "Because I downloaded classified files from his computer while we were at the party. It's kind of my thing."

Cooper and Lisa cracked up laughing while Kurt and Blaine stared at them in total confusion.

"Turns out Michael Smythe dabbles in all sorts of interesting projects. Global projects with overseas clients the US government would not approve of. It would be a shame if someone from government...say a certain Congressman from Ohio, decided to open an investigation of Smythe Industries business dealings."

Kurt stared at the thumb drive. "Does he know you have this?"

"Not yet. I wanted to wait until you filed the papers and received the letter clearing you of all charges."

"Oh!" Kurt jumped up and grabbed an envelope from his desk. "It came yesterday."

Cooper smiled as he read over the official letter declaring the allegations expunged.

"Excellent." Cooper stood up. "Well, we have a flight to catch."

Blaine looked sad. "You're going back to Ohio?"

Lisa smiled. "No. The Carribbean. Your brother deserves a vacation."

Blaine felt better. "What will you do when you get back?"

"Oh, I don't know. There are plenty of companies I could work for, or I might start my own. Who knows. I've made plenty of money. I'll take my time and decide what I want to do for once."

Blaine threw himself at his brother, hugging him. "Thank you. Thank you, Coop. Thank you."

Cooper held him. "You're welcome. I'm sorry I didn't do more when we were growing up. I should have stood up for you."

After hugs and kisses goodbye, Cooper and Lisa left. Kurt and Blaine sat on the couch and stared at the release papers.

Blaine looked at Kurt. "So, it's finally over?"

"Looks like it."

Blaine snuggled closer to Kurt. Kurt reached around him and began stroking his purr spot. Blaine closed his eyes and began to purr. Kurt closed his eyes and let his head fall back.

Finally.

Peace.

Monday morning Kurt was at the Ministry offices when the doors opened. He fought the urge to laugh out loud and dance obnoxiously as he watched Perlson scrutinize the release papers before approving their certification. Perlson stared at Kurt with a nasty expression as if he smelled bad. Kurt held his head high and stared right back with a satisfied smile.

"Well Mr. Hummel, everything seems to be in order."

Kurt reached for the papers. "Thank you." Perlson didn't release them. He leaned forward. "Such a pity. I was looking forward to helping you adjust your attitude. I hope you fuck up one day and give me the satisfaction. Know that I'll be waiting."

Kurt smiled. "Why Perlson...are you threatening me?"

Perlson sat back. "Of course not. The Ministry is dedicated to supporting strong, loving relationships between masters and slaves. Corrective training is only administered when required."

"Sure." Kurt snatched the papers and turned to leave. He stopped and turned back around.

"Perlson, does your jurisdiction extend to Paris?"

One more chapter.