Twelve Days of Klainemas
Title: Twelve Days of Klainemas
Rating: NC-17
Warnings: dirty talk, light bondage, lots of fluff
Word Count: 9,912
Summary: In the twelve days leading up to Christmas Blaine treats Kurt to as many holiday traditions as he can think of, with something very special saved for Christmas Day.
Notes: Thanks to my beta likeasouffle for doing an awesome job! This was a gift for subitodolcediva in the KB_Holidays exchange! I don't own Glee or its characters!
Twelve Days of Klainemas
First Day of Christmas (December 14, 2017)
Kurt knows Blaine is home before he even comes through the door; the telltale muffled stomps of his boots on the welcome mat give him away. He walks in with a gleam in his eye and Kurt knows he must be in a good mood.
He smiles at Blaine from where he is curled up on their cushy loveseat, warm and cozy under the knitted afghan Carol had made for him last winter.
"Good show tonight?" he asks, bringing a mug of hot cocoa to his lips.
"Rachel was flawless, as usual," Blaine replies, nodding. "And just as critical of my playing as she always is," he adds as an afterthought.
"Naturally," Kurt says with a smile. "I wouldn't expect anything less of her." He rises gingerly from the couch and, pulling the afghan around his shoulders, makes his way into the kitchen.
"That's not why I'm so happy, though."
"Why then?" Kurt asks as he takes a new mug for Blaine out from the cabinet over the stove.
"My father called during intermission," Blaine says, shrugging off his jacket and hanging it on the coat rack.
"And that put you in a good mood?" Kurt asks, confused. He shuffles back into the living room, holding a steaming mug of cocoa in his outstretched hand. Blaine takes it and places a chaste kiss to Kurt's forehead.
"Not directly. Come sit with me and I'll explain."
They retire to the couch, Kurt resuming his curled up position against the armrest, Blaine settling down next to him.
"So, my father called. I think he was hoping to get my voicemail, but it was intermission, so I answered. I figured if we got into an argument I'd at least have the excuse of getting back to work in ten minutes. Anyway, he informed me in no uncertain terms that you're not invited for Christmas." He pauses, awaiting Kurt's reaction. Kurt's expression remains unchanged, simply intent with interest.
"I told him we already had plans. He seemed surprised," Blaine said, chuckling slightly. "I'm just glad we're out of school now and he can't hold the fact that he paid my tuition over my head as collateral for forcing me to come home for the holidays without you."
He gently reaches over and takes Kurt's hand in his own. He runs his thumb across Kurt's delicate fingers.
"You know what this means, right?" Blaine asks, looking up to meet Kurt's gaze. "This is the first Christmas that's truly ours. And I intend to make the most of it." Blaine grins broadly and brings Kurt's hand to his lips, kissing it softly.
"How?" Kurt asks, glad to see Blaine in such high spirits.
"Oh, I have big plans," Blaine grins. "It's our first holiday together in our first apartment, and we've got eleven more days until Christmas to make it the best one ever."
"Blaine, every Christmas with you has been wonderful, no matter if we had to spend some of them apart."
"Even the year I made you sing Baby, It's Cold Outside and I had no idea you liked me?" Blaine asks sheepishly.
"Even that one," Kurt says. "Because it got us here." He leans over and kisses Blaine sweetly on the lips, tasting the cocoa and inhaling the musky scent of Blaine's aftershave.
"I love you," Blaine whispers against Kurt's lips.
"I love you too," Kurt says as he pulls away. "And I can't wait to see what you've got planned for us."
Second Day of Christmas
Being a Broadway musician has plenty of perks, one of which is a permanently set work schedule that Blaine could easily plan around. And with Kurt able to work on his latest designs without even needing to report to headquarters except on Mondays, they're left with plenty of wiggle room in their schedule, and plenty of opportunities to spend time together.
Blaine takes advantage of this flexibility the very next day. There's no matinee show on Friday, only a night performance, so he wakes Kurt up early and hustles him out of the house by eleven. Both of them are bundled up in their thick knit scarves and woolen gloves, ready to brave the chilly weather. Blaine stoutly refuses to tell Kurt where they're going, or why he's brought his guitar with him.
"It's not far," is Blaine's only response to Kurt's persistent whine of, "Where are you taking me?"
Kurt wants to complain, but in reality he loves Blaine's surprises, especially when music is involved. He may have swapped his Broadway dreams in favor of his passion for design, but that doesn't means he'll pass up an opportunity to sing, especially with Blaine.
They join the bustling crowd on the corner of 54th and 6th and Blaine reaches out to grasp Kurt's gloved hand in his own. Their fingers interlace and Blaine glances up to meet Kurt's gaze. He smiles that sweet smile that leaves Kurt's stomach fluttering every time it's aimed his way and Kurt finds himself blushing slightly under his boyfriend's gaze.
"Here we are," Blaine says a few blocks later. They've come to a stop in front of a tall brick building and Kurt glances up to at the garland-laden placard above the entrance.
"Mission of Hope Orphanage?" Kurt asks, interest piqued.
"I figured the best way to start off the holiday season would be by giving back to the community," Blaine answers, opening the door and leading Kurt into the inviting warmth of the building. "Then I thought what better way to give back than spreading some holiday cheer?"
"We're singing Christmas carols to children?" Kurt asks, eyes sparkling.
"We're singing Christmas carols to children," Blaine grins.
"You're brilliant," Kurt says, placing a kiss to Blaine's temple.
"Welcome!" a woman says, coming in through a door to their right. Blaine can see a group of children assembled in the next room, crowding around the roaring fire place. "You must be Blaine and Kurt. I'm Lydia," she continues. "Thank you so much for doing this. It's been a rough year for some of these kids and they're really looking forward to having you here."
"It's our pleasure," Blaine says sincerely, following Lydia into the room of waiting children.
"Boys and girls, we have two very special guests with us this morning," Lydia says, garnering the attention of the children. "Let's say hello to Blaine and Kurt. They're here to play some holiday music for us today!"
A loud chorus of hellos echoes through the room as the children turn and crane their necks and get a better view of their visitors.
"Hey, kids!" Blaine says enthusiastically. "Who knows the words to Frosty the Snowman?"
Blaine starts strumming his guitar and the kids who know the words sing along with him. Kurt makes his way around the room, singing his heart out and trying to engage all the smaller children by dancing with them. The room starts to take on a real holiday feel and Kurt loses himself in the music and the cheer.
As Blaine starts in on Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Kurt notices a little blonde girl curled up in the corner, clutching a blanket to her chest. He thinks she's probably about two or three years old, and she looks so sad and small that his heart nearly breaks. He makes his way over to her slowly and then crouches down beside her.
"Hi, honey," he says softly. "My name is Kurt. What's your name?"
"Emmy," the girl whispers in a barely audible voice.
"Well, Miss Emmy, would you like to dance with me?" Kurt holds out his hands and Emmy gives a nearly imperceptible nod before extending her hand to Kurt. She draws it back suddenly, though, and Kurt is worried he has scared her.
"Blankie, too?" she asks softly.
"Of course," Kurt says. Emmy‘s face breaks out into a bright smile as she reaches upward with her hands. Kurt scoops her into his arms and places her gently on his hip. He begins to dance around the room with her, singing softly in her ear.
She lets out a giddy laugh as he spins her around, and Kurt catches Blaine's gaze from the corner of his eye. Blaine's face clearly conveys what he is thinking. You're such an amazing person, and I love you.
Third Day of Christmas
As they walk home after their afternoon at the orphanage a cold front sweeps in and by Saturday morning the streets are covered in a smooth eight inches of snow.
"Wake up, sleepyhead," Blaine coos, gently trying to shake Kurt from his slumber. "There's fresh snow, and I want to enjoy it before I have to go to work."
"Mmmph," is all the response he gets from Kurt, who only buries himself deeper under the covers.
"Don't make me pull the blanket off, Kurt," Blaine warns lovingly, taking the edge of the comforter in his hand. "You know I'll do it."
"Mmmph, fine," Kurt mumbles groggily from beneath the sheets. "I'm awake, okay?"
"Fantastic. I've got coffee brewing already, it'll be done in a few minutes," Blaine says, backing out of the bedroom. "Dress warm!"
Kurt spends a few more moments in the blissful warmth of the bed before dragging himself out of it. He smiles to himself as he marvels at Blaine's childlike awe whenever it snows. The way Blaine can get excited over the simplest things is one of the reasons Kurt loves him so much.
When he's finally dressed, warm and cozy as Blaine insisted, he makes his way into the kitchen and accepts a steaming cup of coffee from Blaine. He manages to get a few sips in before Blaine is impatiently tugging him toward the door, holding his jacket and gloves out to him.
"Okay, okay, calm down," Kurt laughs, as he tugs on his boots. "Alright, I'm ready."
They take the elevator down to the first floor and Blaine bounds down the front stoop with Kurt trailing behind. He gathers up a handful of the flaky white snow before Kurt even steps foot on the sidewalk, and raises his arm as if to throw it at Kurt.
"Don't you dare, Blaine Anderson," Kurt squeals, hiding his face behind his arms.
"Fine, fine," Blaine says, dropping the snowball. "Let's build a snowman."
~~~~~~~~~~
"He needs eyes," Blaine says, looking at the snowman critically about an hour later. "Among other things."
Kurt looks around them and his eyes fall on their garbage can. He digs around in it for a moment before emerging victorious with two round jar lids.
"Here, these should do it," he says, placing them on the top ball of the snowman.
"Perfect. I'll be right back," Blaine calls as he starts up the stairs leading into the building. He returns a minute later with a collection of random objects from their apartment. He and Kurt finish decorating their snowman with a carrot nose, an old scarf, and two wire hangers for arms. They give him a broom to hold for good measure, then step back to admire their handiwork.
Blaine snaps a picture of their creation on his cell phone and then leans in to kiss Kurt on the cheek, snapping another picture as he does so.
"I've still got an hour before call," he says. "Just enough time for some hot cocoa."
"With peppermint swizzle sticks?" Kurt asks, as they make their way back into their apartment.
"Absolutely," Blaine says, grabbing Kurt's hand and giving it a squeeze.
Fourth Day of Christmas
Sunday is usually their day to sleep in, but today is the last Sunday before Christmas which means that Kurt wakes up to his alarm at seven sharp, in full shopping mode.
He rolls over on his side and nuzzles up to Blaine.
"Time to get up, baby," he whispers after he turns off the alarm.
"Nooo," Blaine moans, pulling the comforter up over his head and curling up into a ball.
Kurt snuggles up to Blaine's backside and ducks under the covers to join him. He wraps an arm around him, inhaling the musky scent that is so inherently Blaine. A few more minutes couldn't hurt. Besides, he's got another alarm set for seven-fifteen.
Kurt places a soft kiss on the nape of Blaine's neck and Blaine lets out a low noise of approval.
"Okay," Kurt says. "Fifteen more minutes." He can't say no to Blaine; it's something he's just never been able to do.
~~~~~~~~~~
By the time they are combing the bustling streets of New York searching for the best deals, Kurt and Blaine are both wide awake and eager to get their shopping finished. The rest of the Hummel-Hudson clan, plus Rachel, is set to arrive on Christmas Day, and the boys still haven't managed to buy a present for Carole or Burt.
"So, Bloomingdale's for Carole, Brookstone for Burt?" Blaine asks when they arrive in the heart of the shopping district.
"Yes, then a quick lunch at that little bistro you like, and splitting up to buy our Secret Santa gifts for the New Directions party."
"Sounds like a plan." Blaine reaches down and intertwines his fingers with Kurt's, giving his hand a gentle squeeze as they step into the entranceway of Bloomingdale's. "So what are you thinking for Carole?"
"A scarf maybe, or a nice sweater," Kurt answers thoughtfully. "Something nice, but nothing too fancy. You know how she is."
"Mmmh," Blaine agrees.
They begin browsing the racks together, commenting here and there on the selection. Kurt picks out a few sweaters for Blaine to voice his opinion on, even though they both know he'll probably decide on something else later anyway.
"…and I think this one will really bring out the color of her eyes, but the blue one will probably fit her better, and…Blaine, why are you staring at me like that?"
"It's nothing…you're just beautiful, you know that?"
Kurt smiles softly as a pink tinge spreads across his face. "Blaine stop it, you're making me blush."
"I mean it. I don't think that I tell you enough, but I love you, and you're beautiful."
"I love you too."
~~~~~~~~~~
"Delicious as always," Kurt compliments as they leave the bistro.
"Probably the best find we've made since we moved here," Blaine agrees. He looks down at his watch and a worried look crosses his face. "So. Time to split up. I'll meet you back here in an hour?"
"Sure," Kurt says. Then, "Blaine, are you okay? You seem a little…distracted."
"Me? No, I'm fine. Just…thinking about what I want to get for my Secret Santa," he says, glancing at his watch again.
"If you say so. I'll see you in an hour, then."
"Great. Love you," Blaine says as he leans in for a kiss, then he's off down the street and out of sight.
~~~~~~~~~~
The bell tinkles on the door above him as Blaine walks into Winston & Fosters.
"Mr. Anderson! We were afraid you wouldn't make it before closing," the older gentleman greets him from behind the counter as he beckons Blaine in from the cold.
"Sorry, Mr. Foster. Lunch took a bit longer than I anticipated," Blaine says. "But there was no way I wasn't going to make it here in time. Do you have it? Is it ready?"
"Of course, Mr. Anderson, of course," Mr. Foster replies. "Would you like to see it?"
"Yes, please," Blaine says almost breathlessly.
He watches as Mr. Foster pulled a small black velvet box from behind the counter, and his eyes widen as the man opens it to show the sleek diamond ring lying inside.
"It's beautiful," Blaine breathes.
"He's a lucky man, Mr. Anderson," Mr. Foster says warmly.
"No," Blaine says softly. "I am."
Fifth Day of Christmas
"A little to the left," Blaine grunts, trying to hold his footing. "No, my left."
"Ugh, why did I let you pick out the tree?" Kurt moans from inside the apartment, where he is struggling with the top half of their Christmas pine.
"Stop whining, it's not that big," defends Blaine from the hallway.
Kurt snorts. "That's what he said."
"Oh, come on, you know that's not true. I'm pretty sure I've never heard any complaints from you."
Kurt has the decency to blush as they finally maneuver the tree through their narrow doorway. Once it's upright and securely holstered in its stand, Kurt's impeccable designing talents come into play.
"Okay, let's get to work," he says, eyeing the tree critically. "Lights first, then ornaments. Tinsel goes on last."
"Woah, slow down there a minute," Blaine says, collapsing on the couch. "I need to get my strength back up."
"Bla-aine," Kurt whines teasingly.
"Go on, you get started. Let me just catch my breath."
Kurt lets out a squeal of delight and claps his hands together. In a matter of seconds he is bustling around the tiny living room, stringing sparkling multi-colored lights from tree limb to tree limb. Blaine sits there, content to just watch his boyfriend beautify their home, but Kurt doesn't let him linger for long.
"Blaine, come on," Kurt implores, pulling Blaine up by his hands. "I've done the hard part, the rest is fun!"
"Alright, alright, I'm ready," Blaine says, bending down to a box or ornaments. "But promise you're not going to rearrange the ornaments I put up on the tree like you do to Carole every year."
"I don't know what you're talking about," Kurt says evasively, bending down to open up another box. He meets Blaine's knowing gaze. "Okay, fine, I promise," he smiles.
They work in companionable silence for a while, maneuvering around each other in some silent yet choreographed dance. Kurt decorates the slightly higher branches, leaving Blaine to place ornaments in the lower boughs. Occasionally there is a brush of hands or a lingering hand on a shoulder as they pass each other, the gentle touches of two people so undeniably in love.
When there is only one box of ornaments left, Blaine ducks into the kitchen with a slightly mischievous-sounding, "I'll be right back."
Kurt tries not to wonder what Blaine is getting up to in there, and instead focuses on getting the last few ornaments placed just so on the tree. Once the last delicate crystal snowflake is in place, Kurt's attention returns to Blaine, who he can still hear puttering around in the kitchen. The warm smell of butter wafts through the air.
"Popcorn?" Kurt asks.
"For the tree. I thought it would be more fun than tinsel," Blaine replies.
"It'll take a while to string it all up."
"Yeah, but we've got all the time in the world."
"You've been acting differently lately," Kurt observes from the doorway to the kitchen. "More romantic than usual. I like it."
"Then you'll love my addition to your already fabulous decorations."
Kurt looks at him questioningly. Blaine gives a slight nod upward.
"Mistletoe?" Kurt laughs. "You know you can kiss me whenever you want."
"I know," Blaine smiles before kissing Kurt softly on the lips. "But now I have an excuse to do it more often."
Sixth Day of Christmas
"Oh, no," Kurt says, disappointment clear in his voice.
"What?" Blaine asks, slightly defensive. He'd thought this would be a great idea. "You love ice skating."
"Oh, Blaine," Kurt laughs. "You're right, I do love it. I love to watch it. On television. I mean come on, what's not to like? Dancing, beautiful men, fabulous costumes…" He trails off, glancing down at the skating figures on the rink below him. His eyes do a onceover of his surroundings: the gaudy golden cherub, the strings of glittering lights, the happy couples on display, until his eyes are back on Blaine.
"Then what's the problem?"
"Idon'tknowhowtoiceskate," Kurt mumbles, not making eye contact.
"Sorry? I didn't quite catch that," Blaine says, a smile forming on his lips.
"I don't know how to ice skate!" Kurt exclaims. "I've never gone before."
"Come on, you'll be fine. It's just like roller blading."
Kurt looks down at his feet, a pink tinge spreading on his cheeks.
"Don't tell me you don't know how to roller blade either?"
"I'm not very outdoorsy, you know that," Kurt defends.
"I'll teach you," Blaine says, extending his hand for Kurt to grasp. "Come on, it'll be fun. Completely romantic."
"You know I can never resist romance," Kurt says, taking Blaine's hand.
"I know," Blaine says, bringing Kurt's hand up to his lips and placing a sweet kiss on it. "Now let's go rent some skates."
~~~~~~~~~~
"That's it, you've got it now!"
Kurt smiles as he continues to forge his way around the rink, Blaine skating slowly at his side. He's still a little shaky on his feet, but at least he hasn't fallen in the last fifteen minutes.
"You know, this is actually pretty fun," he says happily.
"I knew you would love it," Blaine says as he reaches down to lace his fingers with Kurt's. They slowly make their way around the rink, Blaine helping to keep Kurt balanced. After a few more laps, Blaine notices Kurt's lips trembling.
"You're cold," he says. "We can go inside."
"We don't have to," Kurt says as they glide to a stop against the wall of the rink.
"Kurt, your lips are turning purple."
"I'm having fun," Kurt protests. "I don't want to g - mmph."
Blaine's lips are covering Kurt's and Kurt is completely fine with that. He thinks briefly of how far they've come since Lima, when neither would have dared to kiss the other in public. The thought is gone quickly as Kurt's brain is soon filled with nothing but thoughts of Blaine.
Eventually they pull apart for air, and Blaine gently nuzzles Kurt's scarf-covered neck.
"What was that for?" Kurt asks.
"I had to warm your lips up," Blaine says as if it's the most obvious thing in the world. "Can't have you freezing to death out here."
Kurt laughs softly, but then their moment is interrupted.
"Hey, get a room you two!" a voice from above them screams.
"Hey!" Kurt says indignantly, ready to give this woman a piece of his mind. He glances up, then -
"Rachel!" he exclaims.
"Hey! Meet me downstairs, we'll have some hot cocoa!"
The boys make their way into Concourse and find Rachel waiting for them at a small table in the café.
"Here," she says, thrusting a fistful of money at Kurt. "Go get our drinks. I have to talk to Blaine about our last performance."
"Hello to you too, Rachel," Kurt says, bemused, before heading towards the line at the counter.
"My last performance was flawless," Blaine says defensively.
"You were half a beat late coming into the fourth song, but that's not what I want to talk about," Rachel says, a glint in her eyes.
"What then?"
"Did you get it?" she whispers conspiratorially. "The ring?"
Blaine's face breaks out into a grin. "Yeah, I've got it at home."
"You didn't hide it in your sock drawer did you? Because that's the first place Kurt looks for hidden gifts."
"Of course not," Blaine says, glancing toward the slow moving line.
"You're going to move it as soon as you get home, aren't you?" Rachel says knowingly.
"Shut up." Blaine replies, sticking his tongue out at her.
"Oh, very mature," she jokes. "You're definitely ready to get married."
"I love him so much, Rach."
"Oh, I'm so happy for you guys!" she squeals.
"He hasn't said yes yet."
"Like he'd actually say no. You're practically already married as it is."
"I know. And I love it." He looks towards Kurt again, and smiles when they lock eyes.
"You are so far gone, lover boy," Rachel says, but Blaine doesn't make any indication that he's heard her.
Part Two!
Rating: NC-17
Warnings: dirty talk, light bondage, lots of fluff
Word Count: 9,912
Summary: In the twelve days leading up to Christmas Blaine treats Kurt to as many holiday traditions as he can think of, with something very special saved for Christmas Day.
Notes: Thanks to my beta likeasouffle for doing an awesome job! This was a gift for subitodolcediva in the KB_Holidays exchange! I don't own Glee or its characters!
Twelve Days of Klainemas
First Day of Christmas (December 14, 2017)
Kurt knows Blaine is home before he even comes through the door; the telltale muffled stomps of his boots on the welcome mat give him away. He walks in with a gleam in his eye and Kurt knows he must be in a good mood.
He smiles at Blaine from where he is curled up on their cushy loveseat, warm and cozy under the knitted afghan Carol had made for him last winter.
"Good show tonight?" he asks, bringing a mug of hot cocoa to his lips.
"Rachel was flawless, as usual," Blaine replies, nodding. "And just as critical of my playing as she always is," he adds as an afterthought.
"Naturally," Kurt says with a smile. "I wouldn't expect anything less of her." He rises gingerly from the couch and, pulling the afghan around his shoulders, makes his way into the kitchen.
"That's not why I'm so happy, though."
"Why then?" Kurt asks as he takes a new mug for Blaine out from the cabinet over the stove.
"My father called during intermission," Blaine says, shrugging off his jacket and hanging it on the coat rack.
"And that put you in a good mood?" Kurt asks, confused. He shuffles back into the living room, holding a steaming mug of cocoa in his outstretched hand. Blaine takes it and places a chaste kiss to Kurt's forehead.
"Not directly. Come sit with me and I'll explain."
They retire to the couch, Kurt resuming his curled up position against the armrest, Blaine settling down next to him.
"So, my father called. I think he was hoping to get my voicemail, but it was intermission, so I answered. I figured if we got into an argument I'd at least have the excuse of getting back to work in ten minutes. Anyway, he informed me in no uncertain terms that you're not invited for Christmas." He pauses, awaiting Kurt's reaction. Kurt's expression remains unchanged, simply intent with interest.
"I told him we already had plans. He seemed surprised," Blaine said, chuckling slightly. "I'm just glad we're out of school now and he can't hold the fact that he paid my tuition over my head as collateral for forcing me to come home for the holidays without you."
He gently reaches over and takes Kurt's hand in his own. He runs his thumb across Kurt's delicate fingers.
"You know what this means, right?" Blaine asks, looking up to meet Kurt's gaze. "This is the first Christmas that's truly ours. And I intend to make the most of it." Blaine grins broadly and brings Kurt's hand to his lips, kissing it softly.
"How?" Kurt asks, glad to see Blaine in such high spirits.
"Oh, I have big plans," Blaine grins. "It's our first holiday together in our first apartment, and we've got eleven more days until Christmas to make it the best one ever."
"Blaine, every Christmas with you has been wonderful, no matter if we had to spend some of them apart."
"Even the year I made you sing Baby, It's Cold Outside and I had no idea you liked me?" Blaine asks sheepishly.
"Even that one," Kurt says. "Because it got us here." He leans over and kisses Blaine sweetly on the lips, tasting the cocoa and inhaling the musky scent of Blaine's aftershave.
"I love you," Blaine whispers against Kurt's lips.
"I love you too," Kurt says as he pulls away. "And I can't wait to see what you've got planned for us."
Second Day of Christmas
Being a Broadway musician has plenty of perks, one of which is a permanently set work schedule that Blaine could easily plan around. And with Kurt able to work on his latest designs without even needing to report to headquarters except on Mondays, they're left with plenty of wiggle room in their schedule, and plenty of opportunities to spend time together.
Blaine takes advantage of this flexibility the very next day. There's no matinee show on Friday, only a night performance, so he wakes Kurt up early and hustles him out of the house by eleven. Both of them are bundled up in their thick knit scarves and woolen gloves, ready to brave the chilly weather. Blaine stoutly refuses to tell Kurt where they're going, or why he's brought his guitar with him.
"It's not far," is Blaine's only response to Kurt's persistent whine of, "Where are you taking me?"
Kurt wants to complain, but in reality he loves Blaine's surprises, especially when music is involved. He may have swapped his Broadway dreams in favor of his passion for design, but that doesn't means he'll pass up an opportunity to sing, especially with Blaine.
They join the bustling crowd on the corner of 54th and 6th and Blaine reaches out to grasp Kurt's gloved hand in his own. Their fingers interlace and Blaine glances up to meet Kurt's gaze. He smiles that sweet smile that leaves Kurt's stomach fluttering every time it's aimed his way and Kurt finds himself blushing slightly under his boyfriend's gaze.
"Here we are," Blaine says a few blocks later. They've come to a stop in front of a tall brick building and Kurt glances up to at the garland-laden placard above the entrance.
"Mission of Hope Orphanage?" Kurt asks, interest piqued.
"I figured the best way to start off the holiday season would be by giving back to the community," Blaine answers, opening the door and leading Kurt into the inviting warmth of the building. "Then I thought what better way to give back than spreading some holiday cheer?"
"We're singing Christmas carols to children?" Kurt asks, eyes sparkling.
"We're singing Christmas carols to children," Blaine grins.
"You're brilliant," Kurt says, placing a kiss to Blaine's temple.
"Welcome!" a woman says, coming in through a door to their right. Blaine can see a group of children assembled in the next room, crowding around the roaring fire place. "You must be Blaine and Kurt. I'm Lydia," she continues. "Thank you so much for doing this. It's been a rough year for some of these kids and they're really looking forward to having you here."
"It's our pleasure," Blaine says sincerely, following Lydia into the room of waiting children.
"Boys and girls, we have two very special guests with us this morning," Lydia says, garnering the attention of the children. "Let's say hello to Blaine and Kurt. They're here to play some holiday music for us today!"
A loud chorus of hellos echoes through the room as the children turn and crane their necks and get a better view of their visitors.
"Hey, kids!" Blaine says enthusiastically. "Who knows the words to Frosty the Snowman?"
Blaine starts strumming his guitar and the kids who know the words sing along with him. Kurt makes his way around the room, singing his heart out and trying to engage all the smaller children by dancing with them. The room starts to take on a real holiday feel and Kurt loses himself in the music and the cheer.
As Blaine starts in on Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Kurt notices a little blonde girl curled up in the corner, clutching a blanket to her chest. He thinks she's probably about two or three years old, and she looks so sad and small that his heart nearly breaks. He makes his way over to her slowly and then crouches down beside her.
"Hi, honey," he says softly. "My name is Kurt. What's your name?"
"Emmy," the girl whispers in a barely audible voice.
"Well, Miss Emmy, would you like to dance with me?" Kurt holds out his hands and Emmy gives a nearly imperceptible nod before extending her hand to Kurt. She draws it back suddenly, though, and Kurt is worried he has scared her.
"Blankie, too?" she asks softly.
"Of course," Kurt says. Emmy‘s face breaks out into a bright smile as she reaches upward with her hands. Kurt scoops her into his arms and places her gently on his hip. He begins to dance around the room with her, singing softly in her ear.
She lets out a giddy laugh as he spins her around, and Kurt catches Blaine's gaze from the corner of his eye. Blaine's face clearly conveys what he is thinking. You're such an amazing person, and I love you.
Third Day of Christmas
As they walk home after their afternoon at the orphanage a cold front sweeps in and by Saturday morning the streets are covered in a smooth eight inches of snow.
"Wake up, sleepyhead," Blaine coos, gently trying to shake Kurt from his slumber. "There's fresh snow, and I want to enjoy it before I have to go to work."
"Mmmph," is all the response he gets from Kurt, who only buries himself deeper under the covers.
"Don't make me pull the blanket off, Kurt," Blaine warns lovingly, taking the edge of the comforter in his hand. "You know I'll do it."
"Mmmph, fine," Kurt mumbles groggily from beneath the sheets. "I'm awake, okay?"
"Fantastic. I've got coffee brewing already, it'll be done in a few minutes," Blaine says, backing out of the bedroom. "Dress warm!"
Kurt spends a few more moments in the blissful warmth of the bed before dragging himself out of it. He smiles to himself as he marvels at Blaine's childlike awe whenever it snows. The way Blaine can get excited over the simplest things is one of the reasons Kurt loves him so much.
When he's finally dressed, warm and cozy as Blaine insisted, he makes his way into the kitchen and accepts a steaming cup of coffee from Blaine. He manages to get a few sips in before Blaine is impatiently tugging him toward the door, holding his jacket and gloves out to him.
"Okay, okay, calm down," Kurt laughs, as he tugs on his boots. "Alright, I'm ready."
They take the elevator down to the first floor and Blaine bounds down the front stoop with Kurt trailing behind. He gathers up a handful of the flaky white snow before Kurt even steps foot on the sidewalk, and raises his arm as if to throw it at Kurt.
"Don't you dare, Blaine Anderson," Kurt squeals, hiding his face behind his arms.
"Fine, fine," Blaine says, dropping the snowball. "Let's build a snowman."
~~~~~~~~~~
"He needs eyes," Blaine says, looking at the snowman critically about an hour later. "Among other things."
Kurt looks around them and his eyes fall on their garbage can. He digs around in it for a moment before emerging victorious with two round jar lids.
"Here, these should do it," he says, placing them on the top ball of the snowman.
"Perfect. I'll be right back," Blaine calls as he starts up the stairs leading into the building. He returns a minute later with a collection of random objects from their apartment. He and Kurt finish decorating their snowman with a carrot nose, an old scarf, and two wire hangers for arms. They give him a broom to hold for good measure, then step back to admire their handiwork.
Blaine snaps a picture of their creation on his cell phone and then leans in to kiss Kurt on the cheek, snapping another picture as he does so.
"I've still got an hour before call," he says. "Just enough time for some hot cocoa."
"With peppermint swizzle sticks?" Kurt asks, as they make their way back into their apartment.
"Absolutely," Blaine says, grabbing Kurt's hand and giving it a squeeze.
Fourth Day of Christmas
Sunday is usually their day to sleep in, but today is the last Sunday before Christmas which means that Kurt wakes up to his alarm at seven sharp, in full shopping mode.
He rolls over on his side and nuzzles up to Blaine.
"Time to get up, baby," he whispers after he turns off the alarm.
"Nooo," Blaine moans, pulling the comforter up over his head and curling up into a ball.
Kurt snuggles up to Blaine's backside and ducks under the covers to join him. He wraps an arm around him, inhaling the musky scent that is so inherently Blaine. A few more minutes couldn't hurt. Besides, he's got another alarm set for seven-fifteen.
Kurt places a soft kiss on the nape of Blaine's neck and Blaine lets out a low noise of approval.
"Okay," Kurt says. "Fifteen more minutes." He can't say no to Blaine; it's something he's just never been able to do.
~~~~~~~~~~
By the time they are combing the bustling streets of New York searching for the best deals, Kurt and Blaine are both wide awake and eager to get their shopping finished. The rest of the Hummel-Hudson clan, plus Rachel, is set to arrive on Christmas Day, and the boys still haven't managed to buy a present for Carole or Burt.
"So, Bloomingdale's for Carole, Brookstone for Burt?" Blaine asks when they arrive in the heart of the shopping district.
"Yes, then a quick lunch at that little bistro you like, and splitting up to buy our Secret Santa gifts for the New Directions party."
"Sounds like a plan." Blaine reaches down and intertwines his fingers with Kurt's, giving his hand a gentle squeeze as they step into the entranceway of Bloomingdale's. "So what are you thinking for Carole?"
"A scarf maybe, or a nice sweater," Kurt answers thoughtfully. "Something nice, but nothing too fancy. You know how she is."
"Mmmh," Blaine agrees.
They begin browsing the racks together, commenting here and there on the selection. Kurt picks out a few sweaters for Blaine to voice his opinion on, even though they both know he'll probably decide on something else later anyway.
"…and I think this one will really bring out the color of her eyes, but the blue one will probably fit her better, and…Blaine, why are you staring at me like that?"
"It's nothing…you're just beautiful, you know that?"
Kurt smiles softly as a pink tinge spreads across his face. "Blaine stop it, you're making me blush."
"I mean it. I don't think that I tell you enough, but I love you, and you're beautiful."
"I love you too."
~~~~~~~~~~
"Delicious as always," Kurt compliments as they leave the bistro.
"Probably the best find we've made since we moved here," Blaine agrees. He looks down at his watch and a worried look crosses his face. "So. Time to split up. I'll meet you back here in an hour?"
"Sure," Kurt says. Then, "Blaine, are you okay? You seem a little…distracted."
"Me? No, I'm fine. Just…thinking about what I want to get for my Secret Santa," he says, glancing at his watch again.
"If you say so. I'll see you in an hour, then."
"Great. Love you," Blaine says as he leans in for a kiss, then he's off down the street and out of sight.
~~~~~~~~~~
The bell tinkles on the door above him as Blaine walks into Winston & Fosters.
"Mr. Anderson! We were afraid you wouldn't make it before closing," the older gentleman greets him from behind the counter as he beckons Blaine in from the cold.
"Sorry, Mr. Foster. Lunch took a bit longer than I anticipated," Blaine says. "But there was no way I wasn't going to make it here in time. Do you have it? Is it ready?"
"Of course, Mr. Anderson, of course," Mr. Foster replies. "Would you like to see it?"
"Yes, please," Blaine says almost breathlessly.
He watches as Mr. Foster pulled a small black velvet box from behind the counter, and his eyes widen as the man opens it to show the sleek diamond ring lying inside.
"It's beautiful," Blaine breathes.
"He's a lucky man, Mr. Anderson," Mr. Foster says warmly.
"No," Blaine says softly. "I am."
Fifth Day of Christmas
"A little to the left," Blaine grunts, trying to hold his footing. "No, my left."
"Ugh, why did I let you pick out the tree?" Kurt moans from inside the apartment, where he is struggling with the top half of their Christmas pine.
"Stop whining, it's not that big," defends Blaine from the hallway.
Kurt snorts. "That's what he said."
"Oh, come on, you know that's not true. I'm pretty sure I've never heard any complaints from you."
Kurt has the decency to blush as they finally maneuver the tree through their narrow doorway. Once it's upright and securely holstered in its stand, Kurt's impeccable designing talents come into play.
"Okay, let's get to work," he says, eyeing the tree critically. "Lights first, then ornaments. Tinsel goes on last."
"Woah, slow down there a minute," Blaine says, collapsing on the couch. "I need to get my strength back up."
"Bla-aine," Kurt whines teasingly.
"Go on, you get started. Let me just catch my breath."
Kurt lets out a squeal of delight and claps his hands together. In a matter of seconds he is bustling around the tiny living room, stringing sparkling multi-colored lights from tree limb to tree limb. Blaine sits there, content to just watch his boyfriend beautify their home, but Kurt doesn't let him linger for long.
"Blaine, come on," Kurt implores, pulling Blaine up by his hands. "I've done the hard part, the rest is fun!"
"Alright, alright, I'm ready," Blaine says, bending down to a box or ornaments. "But promise you're not going to rearrange the ornaments I put up on the tree like you do to Carole every year."
"I don't know what you're talking about," Kurt says evasively, bending down to open up another box. He meets Blaine's knowing gaze. "Okay, fine, I promise," he smiles.
They work in companionable silence for a while, maneuvering around each other in some silent yet choreographed dance. Kurt decorates the slightly higher branches, leaving Blaine to place ornaments in the lower boughs. Occasionally there is a brush of hands or a lingering hand on a shoulder as they pass each other, the gentle touches of two people so undeniably in love.
When there is only one box of ornaments left, Blaine ducks into the kitchen with a slightly mischievous-sounding, "I'll be right back."
Kurt tries not to wonder what Blaine is getting up to in there, and instead focuses on getting the last few ornaments placed just so on the tree. Once the last delicate crystal snowflake is in place, Kurt's attention returns to Blaine, who he can still hear puttering around in the kitchen. The warm smell of butter wafts through the air.
"Popcorn?" Kurt asks.
"For the tree. I thought it would be more fun than tinsel," Blaine replies.
"It'll take a while to string it all up."
"Yeah, but we've got all the time in the world."
"You've been acting differently lately," Kurt observes from the doorway to the kitchen. "More romantic than usual. I like it."
"Then you'll love my addition to your already fabulous decorations."
Kurt looks at him questioningly. Blaine gives a slight nod upward.
"Mistletoe?" Kurt laughs. "You know you can kiss me whenever you want."
"I know," Blaine smiles before kissing Kurt softly on the lips. "But now I have an excuse to do it more often."
Sixth Day of Christmas
"Oh, no," Kurt says, disappointment clear in his voice.
"What?" Blaine asks, slightly defensive. He'd thought this would be a great idea. "You love ice skating."
"Oh, Blaine," Kurt laughs. "You're right, I do love it. I love to watch it. On television. I mean come on, what's not to like? Dancing, beautiful men, fabulous costumes…" He trails off, glancing down at the skating figures on the rink below him. His eyes do a onceover of his surroundings: the gaudy golden cherub, the strings of glittering lights, the happy couples on display, until his eyes are back on Blaine.
"Then what's the problem?"
"Idon'tknowhowtoiceskate," Kurt mumbles, not making eye contact.
"Sorry? I didn't quite catch that," Blaine says, a smile forming on his lips.
"I don't know how to ice skate!" Kurt exclaims. "I've never gone before."
"Come on, you'll be fine. It's just like roller blading."
Kurt looks down at his feet, a pink tinge spreading on his cheeks.
"Don't tell me you don't know how to roller blade either?"
"I'm not very outdoorsy, you know that," Kurt defends.
"I'll teach you," Blaine says, extending his hand for Kurt to grasp. "Come on, it'll be fun. Completely romantic."
"You know I can never resist romance," Kurt says, taking Blaine's hand.
"I know," Blaine says, bringing Kurt's hand up to his lips and placing a sweet kiss on it. "Now let's go rent some skates."
~~~~~~~~~~
"That's it, you've got it now!"
Kurt smiles as he continues to forge his way around the rink, Blaine skating slowly at his side. He's still a little shaky on his feet, but at least he hasn't fallen in the last fifteen minutes.
"You know, this is actually pretty fun," he says happily.
"I knew you would love it," Blaine says as he reaches down to lace his fingers with Kurt's. They slowly make their way around the rink, Blaine helping to keep Kurt balanced. After a few more laps, Blaine notices Kurt's lips trembling.
"You're cold," he says. "We can go inside."
"We don't have to," Kurt says as they glide to a stop against the wall of the rink.
"Kurt, your lips are turning purple."
"I'm having fun," Kurt protests. "I don't want to g - mmph."
Blaine's lips are covering Kurt's and Kurt is completely fine with that. He thinks briefly of how far they've come since Lima, when neither would have dared to kiss the other in public. The thought is gone quickly as Kurt's brain is soon filled with nothing but thoughts of Blaine.
Eventually they pull apart for air, and Blaine gently nuzzles Kurt's scarf-covered neck.
"What was that for?" Kurt asks.
"I had to warm your lips up," Blaine says as if it's the most obvious thing in the world. "Can't have you freezing to death out here."
Kurt laughs softly, but then their moment is interrupted.
"Hey, get a room you two!" a voice from above them screams.
"Hey!" Kurt says indignantly, ready to give this woman a piece of his mind. He glances up, then -
"Rachel!" he exclaims.
"Hey! Meet me downstairs, we'll have some hot cocoa!"
The boys make their way into Concourse and find Rachel waiting for them at a small table in the café.
"Here," she says, thrusting a fistful of money at Kurt. "Go get our drinks. I have to talk to Blaine about our last performance."
"Hello to you too, Rachel," Kurt says, bemused, before heading towards the line at the counter.
"My last performance was flawless," Blaine says defensively.
"You were half a beat late coming into the fourth song, but that's not what I want to talk about," Rachel says, a glint in her eyes.
"What then?"
"Did you get it?" she whispers conspiratorially. "The ring?"
Blaine's face breaks out into a grin. "Yeah, I've got it at home."
"You didn't hide it in your sock drawer did you? Because that's the first place Kurt looks for hidden gifts."
"Of course not," Blaine says, glancing toward the slow moving line.
"You're going to move it as soon as you get home, aren't you?" Rachel says knowingly.
"Shut up." Blaine replies, sticking his tongue out at her.
"Oh, very mature," she jokes. "You're definitely ready to get married."
"I love him so much, Rach."
"Oh, I'm so happy for you guys!" she squeals.
"He hasn't said yes yet."
"Like he'd actually say no. You're practically already married as it is."
"I know. And I love it." He looks towards Kurt again, and smiles when they lock eyes.
"You are so far gone, lover boy," Rachel says, but Blaine doesn't make any indication that he's heard her.
Part Two!