Klaine Princess Diaries part 4
Mar. 13th, 2012 12:35 am![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
tigriswolf Without glee to steal his energy and time, Blaine suddenly had an excess of both. He threw himself into learning French, and Kurt enjoyed his enthusiasm. Even Grandmother mentioned his new attitude in passing and smiled at his blush.
At school, except for Puck’s continued protection, the glee club ignored them. Kurt got sad, entreating looks, but Blaine was a complete non-entity. Honestly, it was still better than before, when they saw him but felt the need to tear him down.
Finn always glared at Blaine whenever he went to Kurt’s house. Burt seemed to be running interference, though, and Kurt told Blaine that his dad was on their side. Dad even said that Burt called him at the office one day and they had a long discussion about sons.
When Blaine told Kurt, Kurt grinned. “Dad said something about that,” he chuckled, taking the French worksheet Blaine had just finished. “They’re doing lunch on Thursday. Dad’s gonna call Her Majesty, too. He wants to meet her.”
Blaine blinked at him. “Your dad wants to meet Grandmother?” he repeated incredulously. “Why?”
Kurt shrugged. “He’s curious, I guess. And if I’m going to one day move across the ocean… well, he wants to get a feel for the place.”
Blaine imagined Burt and Grandmother having tea, and he laughed. Kurt nodded, grinning again, before focusing on the worksheet. As he checked Blaine’s answers, he started humming, and then murmuring the song. Blaine didn’t recognize the words at first – then he realized Kurt was singing in French.
He listened closely, trying to understand, and he was sure he had it wrong when he asked, “Are you singing ‘Teenage Dream’?”
Kurt looked up. “Well done, Blaine! You only got one wrong and it was a trick question.”
Blaine smiled, laughing, and said, “Sing it again, babe.”
Kurt lowered his eyes head, gazing up at Blaine through his lashes. “I once won a championship by singing in French,” he said in a soft, breathy voice – in French.
Blaine licked his lips. “Sing for me,” he asked.
Kurt looked quickly around the kitchen. They were at Blaine’s house and Dad had a late meeting. A whole house to themselves. Kurt met Blaine’s eyes and smirked. “Let’s go upstairs,” he practically purred, reaching out to caress Blaine’s fingers. “I’ll teach you a few French words you won’t find on a worksheet.”
Blaine scrambled to his feet and followed Kurt’s saunter up the stairs.
.
A week of peace passed in a quiet haze, and then everyone stared as Blaine and Kurt walked into school on Monday. They shared a glance and moved closer together, but beyond the staring, it was a normal day.
But after school, as they headed for the parking lot, a whole flock of reporters descended on Blaine, yelling his name. “Kurt?” he said, scrambling for Kurt’s hand.
Kurt grabbed him, pulling him close, and screamed, “Finn! Puck! Help!” Kurt dragged him back into the school, and none of the students were of any help until Karofsky shoved his way between Blaine and the reporters.
“Figgins’ office!” he barked at Kurt. “Now!”
Kurt nodded, turning tail and leading Blaine away. Lauren and Puck kept the reporters back, but Karofsky followed. He body-checked Jacob ben Israel, who had his camera ready, and Blaine finally understood.
“They know,” he whispered.
Kurt squeezed his hand, shoved him into Figgins’ office, and pulled out his phone. “Your Majesty,” he said, voice strong and sure, though his hand trembled around Blaine’s, “we have a situation.”
.
Blaine didn’t see Grandmother’s arrival in person, but he watched it on the news later.
A limousine drove up to the school. Joseph and half a dozen other suits escorted Grandmother to Figgins’ office. No students or reporters swarmed her like they had Blaine – probably because of the guns prominently displayed on the suits. Grandmother smiled at the cameras, though. It was the same smile Kurt gave when he was angry and about to let everyone know.
“Principal Figgins,” Grandmother said calmly, at ease behind his desk, hands clasped, smiling at him. “I am very underwhelmed by this learning institution of yours. To be quite honest, I would prefer that my grandson and Mr. Hummel still attended Dalton Academy.”
“I second that,” Burt said, and Dad nodded.
Figgins clearly had no idea what to do, and Kurt covered his laugh with a fake cough. “Your Majesty,” he said, too loudly, “we hold the safety of our students very high in priority.”
“You do?” Burt asked, tone biting and sharp. “Must be a new thing.”
Grandmother looked at him, then Figgins again. “Joseph and a man of his choosing will stay with the boys at all times. They have my permission – my command – to utilize any force necessary to keep my grandson and his intended safe.”
Figgins choked. Grandmother was still smiling.
“Blaine, my dear,” Grandmother said, holding up a hand to halt Figgins’ protests, “do you wish to keep attending this school? If need be, I will pay for you both to return to Dalton.”
Blaine looked at Kurt. Kurt said, “It’s up to you. I’ll follow wherever you lead.”
The door banged open and Coach Sylvester shoved Jacob ben Israel in, holding his camera in her hand. “I found this skulking around,” she announced. “My sources confirm he’s the rat behind the vermin outside.”
“Not surprising,” Kurt commented icily.
Grandmother’s gaze sharpened. “A pity you’re still a student,” she told him. “That does unfortunately limit the scope of our reaction.”
“You can’t do anything!” Jacob shouted, panicked gaze going from Grandmother to Kurt’s favorite teacher to Figgins, whose hands were still spread helplessly. “Freedom of the press!” Jacob tried again, but he quailed beneath the twin glares of Queen Clarisse and Coach Sylvester.
Blaine had to admit, watching Jacob cower gave him a great deal of satisfaction.
“Yes, yes, do be quiet,” Grandmother ordered. Jacob flinched back but kept quiet. “And you are?” Grandmother asked Coach Sylvester, but Blaine knew she’d had Joseph do background checks on practically everyone in Ohio.
Judging by her smirk, Coach Sylvester knew it, too. “I’m the finest cheerleading coach you’ll ever have the luck to meet,” she said.
“Yes,” Grandmother replied, her smile almost looking like a smirk. “I’m certain that’s all you are.”
Coach Sylvester’s smirk sharpened. Blaine thought about the two of them teaming up together for anything and shuddered.
“Please remove that from my sight,” Grandmother commanded. Before Joseph could move, Coach Sylvester grabbed Jacob by the collar and tossed him out. “Thank you,” Grandmother said. “We were discussing the boys’ futures,” she continued, smiling at Coach Sylvester. “We would prefer they returned to Dalton. The campus is far more secure there, and the administration has a proven history of protecting the students.”
“Just tell ‘em to go back,” Coach Sylvester suggested, glancing at Blaine dismissively. Then she smiled at Kurt before focusing back on Grandmother. “Honestly,” she said, dropping her tougher-than-tough façade for a moment, “as much as I like Porcelain, and as glad as I was to see that pallid face of his every day – I wish he’d stayed gone. For all my power, I couldn’t protect him here because even I can’t be everywhere at once.”
Grandmother nodded. Kurt gaped at Coach Sylvester, completely gobsmacked. “Coach,” he said. “I didn’t -”
“Hush, Porcelain,” she interrupted. “The grown-ups are talking.”
“Blaine,” Grandmother said. “All of us would like to know your choice.”
Blaine reached for Kurt’s hand. He played with Kurt’s fingers for a moment, considering. Dalton was safe. It had the Warblers. It had guards who did their jobs, a comprehensive and enforced no-bullying policy, fences, and a closed campus. The teachers adored him. The whole place felt like home. He and Kurt could hold hands in the halls and steal kisses without fear of being beaten to death.
But Dalton wasn’t the real world. It would prepare him for college, but not for Genovia or inter-country relations. He had to learn to deal with problems, not run from them.
He looked at Kurt. “Do you want to go back?”
Kurt said, “Of course I do. But should I?” He shrugged. “Do I wish I hadn’t transferred back so that we’d be there right now, still incognito? Yes.” He glanced at his dad, at Blaine’s dad, at Coach Sylvester, Joseph, and Grandmother, before finally turning back to Blaine. “I know how you feel,” he murmured. “I feel the same. You’re a prince, Blaine. Not everyone will always like you, because they’re stupid, and prejudiced, and completely blind. And this horrible place – it’s good practice, don’t you think?”
Blaine sighed, and because he loved this boy so much, and because he felt safe in their fathers’ and Grandmother’s and Joseph’s, and even Kurt’s crazy Coach Sylvester’s presence, he raised Kurt’s hand to his lips and kissed Kurt’s knuckles. Kurt blushed, of course. But no one said a thing, not even Figgins.
“So be it,” Grandmother said, and turned a steely gaze on Figgins. “I know your policies, Principal Figgins, and I know your practices. I know that you are blind, willfully ignorant, and spineless.” Figgins wilted and opened his mouth, but Grandmother raised an eyebrow and he subsided. “Joseph has charge of my grandson, Principal Figgins. Blaine is my heir. He will be protected, and so will Kurt be. Joseph will attend classes and lunch and walk the halls with Blaine. An agent of his choosing will do the same with Kurt. They will not be bothered. They will not be harmed.” She paused, still staring Figgins down. Blaine realized he’d been holding his breath, so he tried to exhale as quietly as possible.
“I know your history, sir,” Grandmother said. “Joseph presented to me a complete report after Blaine transferred to this… school.” She raised an eyebrow. “If my late husband’s ancestors ran Genovia the way you run McKinley, they would have been overthrown long ago.” She paused, glancing at Burt and Dad. “The boys and I have spoken. Do you agree?”
Blaine looked at his dad. “Are you sure, Blaine?” he asked. “I didn’t like you coming here to begin with, but you were so convincing… and I know you’ve been having nightmares again.”
“I’m sure, Dad,” he said. “I think I… no, I know I need this.”
Dad sighed. “Fine.” He turned to Joseph. “You’re going to stay with him,” he said, suddenly fierce. “No matter what. We clear?”
“Yes, sir,” Joseph replied, a tiny smile on his lips.
“I guess I’ll agree, too,” Burt said. “Seems like all the cool kids are.” He caught Joseph’s eye. “You better find a guy as good as you’re supposed to be for my boy. Are we clear?”
Joseph respectfully inclined his head.
“Now that that’s settled,” Grandmother said, drawing all attention back to her. “Principal Figgins, let us discuss a new bullying policy, shall we.” She smiled her little old grandmother smile, but all it made Blaine think of were sharks. A whole lot of sharks and the scent of blood in the water. And Figgins flinched back like a frightened little fish.
Blaine grinned. Next to him, Kurt was beaming.
.
Joseph escorted them out. The reporters were mostly gone, and the ones remaining stayed a respectful distance away. “Marcom, Kendrick,” Joseph ordered two of the suits, “drive His Highness and the younger Mr. Hummel’s cars to their houses.”
“Sir,” they both said, nodding, and, after taking the keys, left.
Joseph glanced at Dad and said, “Mr. Anderson, Eaton will drive you home and secure the premises.” Dad nodded, resignedly, and followed his suit away. Joseph turned to Burt. “Mr. Hummel, our car will follow you home and then you will join us on the way to the Andersons’ house. Smith will drive you.”
Burt raised an eyebrow at the suit who stepped forward, then he looked at Grandmother, and finally Kurt. “Okay,” he said. “C’mon, Smith.”
Only Grandmother, Blaine, Kurt, and Coach Sylvester remained. “Send me whatever plan you decide on,” Coach Sylvester told Grandmother. “I can help.”
“Of course,” Grandmother replied. “Thank you, Ms. Sylvester.”
Coach Sylvester stalked off and Grandmother smiled after her. “Interesting woman,” Grandmother commented, glancing at Kurt. “Her fondness for you, my dear, is convenient.”
Kurt laughed. “That’s probably the only time anyone has ever said anything about Coach is convenient.”
.
A suit drove the limo. Joseph sat in the back with them and Blaine asked him, “You wouldn’t really use, like, deadly force on a kid, right?”
“That would depend entirely on their demeanor,” Joseph replied calmly. “I have protected politicians, actors, and royalty. I know the difference between an annoyance and a threat, Your Highness.”
Blaine nodded, relieved.
“It is our hope that the children who have been cruel to you will leave you alone now,” Grandmother said, reaching over to pat his hand. “McKinley will be good practice for your future as a king, but it need not be completely awful.”
“We were going to tell the world on Saturday anyway,” Kurt said, nudging Blaine’s side. “I mean, yeah, that would have been better. But it’s just a week’s difference, right?”
Blaine sighed. He asked Grandmother, “How many people will suddenly be my best friends?”
She chuckled softly. “Well, to be honest… everyone. It is painful, I know, but for the rest of your life, you will wonder if someone is friendly because of you, Blaine the dear boy – or because of your crown. I went through it myself, when I wed Rupert.”
Kurt put his arm around Blaine and pulled him close, to whisper in his ear, “I love you for courage, and for dorky dancing, and for your innate kindness.”
“Thank you,” Blaine whispered back.
.
When Burt slid into the limo, he leveled a look at Grandmother. “Well, Clarisse,” he said, “what’s your masterplan now?”
“Dad!” Kurt hissed, horrified. “Don’t talk to a queen like that!”
But Grandmother was laughing. “Oh, it’s alright, Kurt,” she said. “We had an enlightening lunch last Friday.”
Kurt looked from one to the other. “And that’s as scary as Coach being your new bosom buddy,” he told Grandmother, and she laughed again.
“To answer your question, Mr. Hummel,” Grandmother said. “We will now reconvene at Mr. Anderson’s house. Our plan is the same; only the timetable has changed.”
“So the dinner and ball is still a go?” Blaine asked, slumping onto Kurt’s shoulder.
“Of course,” Grandmother replied. “Except, instead of it being your introduction, it will be our formal claim on your heritage.”
Blaine sighed, burying his face in Kurt’s neck. He was so tired, all of sudden. One thing after another… “Can’t I just run away?” he muttered, forgetting for a moment where he was, and who was present.
“No, Your Highness,” Joseph said firmly.
Blaine jerked his head up, embarrassed as he met Grandmother’s eyes, then Burt’s. He blushed and wanted to hide behind Kurt.
Kurt laughed, reaching up to pat his head. “Don’t worry,” he whispered. “I’m on your side, remember? So you can’t be anything but awesome.”
“You promise?” Blaine asked.
“I swear,” Kurt said.
.
Dad and half a dozen suits were waiting at home.
“The perimeter is secure, sir,” the one who’d gone home with Dad told Joseph, then he bowed to Grandmother, murmuring, “Majesty.”
“Thank you, Eaton,” Grandmother said. “All of you, please patrol.” The suits filed out.
Grandmother settled in Dad’s armchair, Joseph standing just behind her. Kurt and Blaine sat as close as they could together on the loveseat, while Dad and Burt took opposite ends of the couch.
“Now, to business,” Grandmother said. “Joseph will begin shadowing Blaine tomorrow. Security will be installed this evening. Joseph?”
“Yes, Majesty.” He spoke into his earbud, “Eaton, Kendrick!” Two suits stepped back in after a moment. “Mr. Anderson,” Joseph said, looking at Dad. “These two will stay here to keep your house secure. One will also secure your office.”
Dad stared at Joseph, then the suits. “Is all this really necessary?” he asked. “I mean – I’m just in advertising. No one’s going to care about me.”
“Mr. Anderson,” Grandmother said severely, “Blaine is the heir. You are his father. Many people will be angered by Blaine’s mere existence, nevermind the fact that he’s happily with Kurt.” Dad looked away, biting his lip. Grandmother continued in a slightly gentler tone, “The Hummels will be secured as well, Mr. Anderson. While I do wish it were not necessary – it is, very much so.” She glanced at Joseph.
He nodded. “Smith, Marcom!”
Dad’s two suits left; two more entered. “Smith will secure your house, Mr. Hummel,” Joseph said. “Marcom will go to your shop.”
Burt nodded. “Fine. Which of ‘em’s Kurt’s bodyguard?”
“Neither,” Joseph answered. “Spencer will arrive later tonight; you will meet him tomorrow, Kurt.”
Kurt’s face was expressionless, his hands clenched together. He ducked his head, trying to hide, and Blaine reached over to touch his shoulder. “Kurt,” he whispered, “What’s wrong?”
Kurt let out a shuddering sigh, then rubbed at his face. “I can’t – bodyguards and guys with guns and how – this isn’t -” He cut himself off and lunged to his feet, hurrying out the room.
Blaine jumped up to follow. “No, Your Highness, Mr. Hummel,” Joseph said, stopping both of them. “Allow me.” He paused in the doorway to say, “Eaton and Marcom will explain the measures needed. I’ll return shortly.”
Grandmother nodded elegantly. “You have the floor, Eaton. Please enlighten these gentlemen.”
Blaine wanted to follow Kurt, to hold him and kiss him, but he trusted Joseph. And maybe Kurt needed a break from him. Maybe the whole prince thing was too much, and Kurt was about to break up with him.
God, he hoped not. He’d only been able to get this far because Kurt was at his side.
“So this Spencer guy’s gonna be movin’ in?” Burt demanded, and Blaine shook his head, focusing back on the meeting.
“Yes, sir,” one of the suits said. Eaton or Marcom. Blaine needed to start paying attention so he could keep all the suits straight. “At night,” the suit continued, “Smith will be on duty so Spencer can sleep, but Spencer will shadow Kurt everywhere.”
“You must realize something, Burt,” Grandmother said, and she sounded like a grandmother, no queen in her voice at all. “Your son is no longer simply a talented, delightful boy. He is no longer a student, or a boyfriend. So many people already hated him just because he would dare date Blaine, even if there was no chance those misguided bigots would ever meet or see him.” She took a breath, and Queen Clarisse Renaldo continued, “But now, the world will be watching. Genovia is a small nation, but we have influence. Many of the elite emulate us. We are renowned for our culture, our crafts, our art. Our national university is one of the best. The world will look at your son because the heir of our throne loves him and will not hide him.”
Grandmother paused, looking Burt straight in the eyes. “Do you understand?” she asked softly, but there was steel in the words. “Your son just stepped into a planet-wide spotlight. People will watch him. Many will admire him for his strength. And many will hate him more than they already do because he will refuse to hide. Do you understand?”
“Yes,” Burt whispered. He pulled his ballcap off and rubbed at the top of his head, his eyes, his mouth and chin.
“Spencer is the best, Mr. Hummel,” Grandmother said after a moment. “If Blaine did not have Joseph, he’d have Spencer.”
Dad said, “This isn’t fair.” He stood and walked over, sinking next to Blaine and hugging him. “I’m sorry,” he murmured into Blaine’s ear. “I love you so much, son.”
Blaine wrapped his arms around Dad and said, “It’ll be alright, Dad.”
Blaine didn’t pull away from Dad until Joseph cleared his throat. Dad let him go reluctantly and Blaine looked up to see Kurt standing sheepishly in front of Joseph. “Hi,” he said, glance darting from the floor to Blaine and back. “I’m sorry for earlier. I was a little – overwhelmed.” He chuckled nervously, hands fluttering by his sides.
Blaine held out a hand. Kurt took it with a sigh of relief and Blaine pulled him down while Dad stood, heading back for the couch.
“Mr. Hummel,” Joseph asked, “where will your wife and stepson be?”
“Um, Carole probably just clocked out for the day,” Burt said. “I have no idea about Finn.”
“Today’s a Rachel day,” Kurt said, lifting his head off Blaine’s shoulder. “No football. There was probably an emergency glee meeting about the – the outing, though. Probably at Rachel’s; she has the most space.”
“We need to get them,” Joseph said.
Burt opened his mouth, protest plain on his face – and then he looked at Kurt. He looked at Kurt for a long moment, and everyone was silent.
“Fine,” Burt said. “Limo again?”
Joseph nodded. He asked Kurt, “Does Mr. Hudson usually drive himself to the young lady’s house?”
Kurt shook his head.
“Very well,” Joseph said.
Burt looked at Kurt again. “I’ll be back, kiddo.”
“Bye, Dad,” Kurt murmured, and then he buried his face in Blaine’s chest.
Blaine started humming ‘Somewhere Only We Know,’ but he didn’t sing.
masterpost
At school, except for Puck’s continued protection, the glee club ignored them. Kurt got sad, entreating looks, but Blaine was a complete non-entity. Honestly, it was still better than before, when they saw him but felt the need to tear him down.
Finn always glared at Blaine whenever he went to Kurt’s house. Burt seemed to be running interference, though, and Kurt told Blaine that his dad was on their side. Dad even said that Burt called him at the office one day and they had a long discussion about sons.
When Blaine told Kurt, Kurt grinned. “Dad said something about that,” he chuckled, taking the French worksheet Blaine had just finished. “They’re doing lunch on Thursday. Dad’s gonna call Her Majesty, too. He wants to meet her.”
Blaine blinked at him. “Your dad wants to meet Grandmother?” he repeated incredulously. “Why?”
Kurt shrugged. “He’s curious, I guess. And if I’m going to one day move across the ocean… well, he wants to get a feel for the place.”
Blaine imagined Burt and Grandmother having tea, and he laughed. Kurt nodded, grinning again, before focusing on the worksheet. As he checked Blaine’s answers, he started humming, and then murmuring the song. Blaine didn’t recognize the words at first – then he realized Kurt was singing in French.
He listened closely, trying to understand, and he was sure he had it wrong when he asked, “Are you singing ‘Teenage Dream’?”
Kurt looked up. “Well done, Blaine! You only got one wrong and it was a trick question.”
Blaine smiled, laughing, and said, “Sing it again, babe.”
Kurt lowered his eyes head, gazing up at Blaine through his lashes. “I once won a championship by singing in French,” he said in a soft, breathy voice – in French.
Blaine licked his lips. “Sing for me,” he asked.
Kurt looked quickly around the kitchen. They were at Blaine’s house and Dad had a late meeting. A whole house to themselves. Kurt met Blaine’s eyes and smirked. “Let’s go upstairs,” he practically purred, reaching out to caress Blaine’s fingers. “I’ll teach you a few French words you won’t find on a worksheet.”
Blaine scrambled to his feet and followed Kurt’s saunter up the stairs.
.
A week of peace passed in a quiet haze, and then everyone stared as Blaine and Kurt walked into school on Monday. They shared a glance and moved closer together, but beyond the staring, it was a normal day.
But after school, as they headed for the parking lot, a whole flock of reporters descended on Blaine, yelling his name. “Kurt?” he said, scrambling for Kurt’s hand.
Kurt grabbed him, pulling him close, and screamed, “Finn! Puck! Help!” Kurt dragged him back into the school, and none of the students were of any help until Karofsky shoved his way between Blaine and the reporters.
“Figgins’ office!” he barked at Kurt. “Now!”
Kurt nodded, turning tail and leading Blaine away. Lauren and Puck kept the reporters back, but Karofsky followed. He body-checked Jacob ben Israel, who had his camera ready, and Blaine finally understood.
“They know,” he whispered.
Kurt squeezed his hand, shoved him into Figgins’ office, and pulled out his phone. “Your Majesty,” he said, voice strong and sure, though his hand trembled around Blaine’s, “we have a situation.”
.
Blaine didn’t see Grandmother’s arrival in person, but he watched it on the news later.
A limousine drove up to the school. Joseph and half a dozen other suits escorted Grandmother to Figgins’ office. No students or reporters swarmed her like they had Blaine – probably because of the guns prominently displayed on the suits. Grandmother smiled at the cameras, though. It was the same smile Kurt gave when he was angry and about to let everyone know.
“Principal Figgins,” Grandmother said calmly, at ease behind his desk, hands clasped, smiling at him. “I am very underwhelmed by this learning institution of yours. To be quite honest, I would prefer that my grandson and Mr. Hummel still attended Dalton Academy.”
“I second that,” Burt said, and Dad nodded.
Figgins clearly had no idea what to do, and Kurt covered his laugh with a fake cough. “Your Majesty,” he said, too loudly, “we hold the safety of our students very high in priority.”
“You do?” Burt asked, tone biting and sharp. “Must be a new thing.”
Grandmother looked at him, then Figgins again. “Joseph and a man of his choosing will stay with the boys at all times. They have my permission – my command – to utilize any force necessary to keep my grandson and his intended safe.”
Figgins choked. Grandmother was still smiling.
“Blaine, my dear,” Grandmother said, holding up a hand to halt Figgins’ protests, “do you wish to keep attending this school? If need be, I will pay for you both to return to Dalton.”
Blaine looked at Kurt. Kurt said, “It’s up to you. I’ll follow wherever you lead.”
The door banged open and Coach Sylvester shoved Jacob ben Israel in, holding his camera in her hand. “I found this skulking around,” she announced. “My sources confirm he’s the rat behind the vermin outside.”
“Not surprising,” Kurt commented icily.
Grandmother’s gaze sharpened. “A pity you’re still a student,” she told him. “That does unfortunately limit the scope of our reaction.”
“You can’t do anything!” Jacob shouted, panicked gaze going from Grandmother to Kurt’s favorite teacher to Figgins, whose hands were still spread helplessly. “Freedom of the press!” Jacob tried again, but he quailed beneath the twin glares of Queen Clarisse and Coach Sylvester.
Blaine had to admit, watching Jacob cower gave him a great deal of satisfaction.
“Yes, yes, do be quiet,” Grandmother ordered. Jacob flinched back but kept quiet. “And you are?” Grandmother asked Coach Sylvester, but Blaine knew she’d had Joseph do background checks on practically everyone in Ohio.
Judging by her smirk, Coach Sylvester knew it, too. “I’m the finest cheerleading coach you’ll ever have the luck to meet,” she said.
“Yes,” Grandmother replied, her smile almost looking like a smirk. “I’m certain that’s all you are.”
Coach Sylvester’s smirk sharpened. Blaine thought about the two of them teaming up together for anything and shuddered.
“Please remove that from my sight,” Grandmother commanded. Before Joseph could move, Coach Sylvester grabbed Jacob by the collar and tossed him out. “Thank you,” Grandmother said. “We were discussing the boys’ futures,” she continued, smiling at Coach Sylvester. “We would prefer they returned to Dalton. The campus is far more secure there, and the administration has a proven history of protecting the students.”
“Just tell ‘em to go back,” Coach Sylvester suggested, glancing at Blaine dismissively. Then she smiled at Kurt before focusing back on Grandmother. “Honestly,” she said, dropping her tougher-than-tough façade for a moment, “as much as I like Porcelain, and as glad as I was to see that pallid face of his every day – I wish he’d stayed gone. For all my power, I couldn’t protect him here because even I can’t be everywhere at once.”
Grandmother nodded. Kurt gaped at Coach Sylvester, completely gobsmacked. “Coach,” he said. “I didn’t -”
“Hush, Porcelain,” she interrupted. “The grown-ups are talking.”
“Blaine,” Grandmother said. “All of us would like to know your choice.”
Blaine reached for Kurt’s hand. He played with Kurt’s fingers for a moment, considering. Dalton was safe. It had the Warblers. It had guards who did their jobs, a comprehensive and enforced no-bullying policy, fences, and a closed campus. The teachers adored him. The whole place felt like home. He and Kurt could hold hands in the halls and steal kisses without fear of being beaten to death.
But Dalton wasn’t the real world. It would prepare him for college, but not for Genovia or inter-country relations. He had to learn to deal with problems, not run from them.
He looked at Kurt. “Do you want to go back?”
Kurt said, “Of course I do. But should I?” He shrugged. “Do I wish I hadn’t transferred back so that we’d be there right now, still incognito? Yes.” He glanced at his dad, at Blaine’s dad, at Coach Sylvester, Joseph, and Grandmother, before finally turning back to Blaine. “I know how you feel,” he murmured. “I feel the same. You’re a prince, Blaine. Not everyone will always like you, because they’re stupid, and prejudiced, and completely blind. And this horrible place – it’s good practice, don’t you think?”
Blaine sighed, and because he loved this boy so much, and because he felt safe in their fathers’ and Grandmother’s and Joseph’s, and even Kurt’s crazy Coach Sylvester’s presence, he raised Kurt’s hand to his lips and kissed Kurt’s knuckles. Kurt blushed, of course. But no one said a thing, not even Figgins.
“So be it,” Grandmother said, and turned a steely gaze on Figgins. “I know your policies, Principal Figgins, and I know your practices. I know that you are blind, willfully ignorant, and spineless.” Figgins wilted and opened his mouth, but Grandmother raised an eyebrow and he subsided. “Joseph has charge of my grandson, Principal Figgins. Blaine is my heir. He will be protected, and so will Kurt be. Joseph will attend classes and lunch and walk the halls with Blaine. An agent of his choosing will do the same with Kurt. They will not be bothered. They will not be harmed.” She paused, still staring Figgins down. Blaine realized he’d been holding his breath, so he tried to exhale as quietly as possible.
“I know your history, sir,” Grandmother said. “Joseph presented to me a complete report after Blaine transferred to this… school.” She raised an eyebrow. “If my late husband’s ancestors ran Genovia the way you run McKinley, they would have been overthrown long ago.” She paused, glancing at Burt and Dad. “The boys and I have spoken. Do you agree?”
Blaine looked at his dad. “Are you sure, Blaine?” he asked. “I didn’t like you coming here to begin with, but you were so convincing… and I know you’ve been having nightmares again.”
“I’m sure, Dad,” he said. “I think I… no, I know I need this.”
Dad sighed. “Fine.” He turned to Joseph. “You’re going to stay with him,” he said, suddenly fierce. “No matter what. We clear?”
“Yes, sir,” Joseph replied, a tiny smile on his lips.
“I guess I’ll agree, too,” Burt said. “Seems like all the cool kids are.” He caught Joseph’s eye. “You better find a guy as good as you’re supposed to be for my boy. Are we clear?”
Joseph respectfully inclined his head.
“Now that that’s settled,” Grandmother said, drawing all attention back to her. “Principal Figgins, let us discuss a new bullying policy, shall we.” She smiled her little old grandmother smile, but all it made Blaine think of were sharks. A whole lot of sharks and the scent of blood in the water. And Figgins flinched back like a frightened little fish.
Blaine grinned. Next to him, Kurt was beaming.
.
Joseph escorted them out. The reporters were mostly gone, and the ones remaining stayed a respectful distance away. “Marcom, Kendrick,” Joseph ordered two of the suits, “drive His Highness and the younger Mr. Hummel’s cars to their houses.”
“Sir,” they both said, nodding, and, after taking the keys, left.
Joseph glanced at Dad and said, “Mr. Anderson, Eaton will drive you home and secure the premises.” Dad nodded, resignedly, and followed his suit away. Joseph turned to Burt. “Mr. Hummel, our car will follow you home and then you will join us on the way to the Andersons’ house. Smith will drive you.”
Burt raised an eyebrow at the suit who stepped forward, then he looked at Grandmother, and finally Kurt. “Okay,” he said. “C’mon, Smith.”
Only Grandmother, Blaine, Kurt, and Coach Sylvester remained. “Send me whatever plan you decide on,” Coach Sylvester told Grandmother. “I can help.”
“Of course,” Grandmother replied. “Thank you, Ms. Sylvester.”
Coach Sylvester stalked off and Grandmother smiled after her. “Interesting woman,” Grandmother commented, glancing at Kurt. “Her fondness for you, my dear, is convenient.”
Kurt laughed. “That’s probably the only time anyone has ever said anything about Coach is convenient.”
.
A suit drove the limo. Joseph sat in the back with them and Blaine asked him, “You wouldn’t really use, like, deadly force on a kid, right?”
“That would depend entirely on their demeanor,” Joseph replied calmly. “I have protected politicians, actors, and royalty. I know the difference between an annoyance and a threat, Your Highness.”
Blaine nodded, relieved.
“It is our hope that the children who have been cruel to you will leave you alone now,” Grandmother said, reaching over to pat his hand. “McKinley will be good practice for your future as a king, but it need not be completely awful.”
“We were going to tell the world on Saturday anyway,” Kurt said, nudging Blaine’s side. “I mean, yeah, that would have been better. But it’s just a week’s difference, right?”
Blaine sighed. He asked Grandmother, “How many people will suddenly be my best friends?”
She chuckled softly. “Well, to be honest… everyone. It is painful, I know, but for the rest of your life, you will wonder if someone is friendly because of you, Blaine the dear boy – or because of your crown. I went through it myself, when I wed Rupert.”
Kurt put his arm around Blaine and pulled him close, to whisper in his ear, “I love you for courage, and for dorky dancing, and for your innate kindness.”
“Thank you,” Blaine whispered back.
.
When Burt slid into the limo, he leveled a look at Grandmother. “Well, Clarisse,” he said, “what’s your masterplan now?”
“Dad!” Kurt hissed, horrified. “Don’t talk to a queen like that!”
But Grandmother was laughing. “Oh, it’s alright, Kurt,” she said. “We had an enlightening lunch last Friday.”
Kurt looked from one to the other. “And that’s as scary as Coach being your new bosom buddy,” he told Grandmother, and she laughed again.
“To answer your question, Mr. Hummel,” Grandmother said. “We will now reconvene at Mr. Anderson’s house. Our plan is the same; only the timetable has changed.”
“So the dinner and ball is still a go?” Blaine asked, slumping onto Kurt’s shoulder.
“Of course,” Grandmother replied. “Except, instead of it being your introduction, it will be our formal claim on your heritage.”
Blaine sighed, burying his face in Kurt’s neck. He was so tired, all of sudden. One thing after another… “Can’t I just run away?” he muttered, forgetting for a moment where he was, and who was present.
“No, Your Highness,” Joseph said firmly.
Blaine jerked his head up, embarrassed as he met Grandmother’s eyes, then Burt’s. He blushed and wanted to hide behind Kurt.
Kurt laughed, reaching up to pat his head. “Don’t worry,” he whispered. “I’m on your side, remember? So you can’t be anything but awesome.”
“You promise?” Blaine asked.
“I swear,” Kurt said.
.
Dad and half a dozen suits were waiting at home.
“The perimeter is secure, sir,” the one who’d gone home with Dad told Joseph, then he bowed to Grandmother, murmuring, “Majesty.”
“Thank you, Eaton,” Grandmother said. “All of you, please patrol.” The suits filed out.
Grandmother settled in Dad’s armchair, Joseph standing just behind her. Kurt and Blaine sat as close as they could together on the loveseat, while Dad and Burt took opposite ends of the couch.
“Now, to business,” Grandmother said. “Joseph will begin shadowing Blaine tomorrow. Security will be installed this evening. Joseph?”
“Yes, Majesty.” He spoke into his earbud, “Eaton, Kendrick!” Two suits stepped back in after a moment. “Mr. Anderson,” Joseph said, looking at Dad. “These two will stay here to keep your house secure. One will also secure your office.”
Dad stared at Joseph, then the suits. “Is all this really necessary?” he asked. “I mean – I’m just in advertising. No one’s going to care about me.”
“Mr. Anderson,” Grandmother said severely, “Blaine is the heir. You are his father. Many people will be angered by Blaine’s mere existence, nevermind the fact that he’s happily with Kurt.” Dad looked away, biting his lip. Grandmother continued in a slightly gentler tone, “The Hummels will be secured as well, Mr. Anderson. While I do wish it were not necessary – it is, very much so.” She glanced at Joseph.
He nodded. “Smith, Marcom!”
Dad’s two suits left; two more entered. “Smith will secure your house, Mr. Hummel,” Joseph said. “Marcom will go to your shop.”
Burt nodded. “Fine. Which of ‘em’s Kurt’s bodyguard?”
“Neither,” Joseph answered. “Spencer will arrive later tonight; you will meet him tomorrow, Kurt.”
Kurt’s face was expressionless, his hands clenched together. He ducked his head, trying to hide, and Blaine reached over to touch his shoulder. “Kurt,” he whispered, “What’s wrong?”
Kurt let out a shuddering sigh, then rubbed at his face. “I can’t – bodyguards and guys with guns and how – this isn’t -” He cut himself off and lunged to his feet, hurrying out the room.
Blaine jumped up to follow. “No, Your Highness, Mr. Hummel,” Joseph said, stopping both of them. “Allow me.” He paused in the doorway to say, “Eaton and Marcom will explain the measures needed. I’ll return shortly.”
Grandmother nodded elegantly. “You have the floor, Eaton. Please enlighten these gentlemen.”
Blaine wanted to follow Kurt, to hold him and kiss him, but he trusted Joseph. And maybe Kurt needed a break from him. Maybe the whole prince thing was too much, and Kurt was about to break up with him.
God, he hoped not. He’d only been able to get this far because Kurt was at his side.
“So this Spencer guy’s gonna be movin’ in?” Burt demanded, and Blaine shook his head, focusing back on the meeting.
“Yes, sir,” one of the suits said. Eaton or Marcom. Blaine needed to start paying attention so he could keep all the suits straight. “At night,” the suit continued, “Smith will be on duty so Spencer can sleep, but Spencer will shadow Kurt everywhere.”
“You must realize something, Burt,” Grandmother said, and she sounded like a grandmother, no queen in her voice at all. “Your son is no longer simply a talented, delightful boy. He is no longer a student, or a boyfriend. So many people already hated him just because he would dare date Blaine, even if there was no chance those misguided bigots would ever meet or see him.” She took a breath, and Queen Clarisse Renaldo continued, “But now, the world will be watching. Genovia is a small nation, but we have influence. Many of the elite emulate us. We are renowned for our culture, our crafts, our art. Our national university is one of the best. The world will look at your son because the heir of our throne loves him and will not hide him.”
Grandmother paused, looking Burt straight in the eyes. “Do you understand?” she asked softly, but there was steel in the words. “Your son just stepped into a planet-wide spotlight. People will watch him. Many will admire him for his strength. And many will hate him more than they already do because he will refuse to hide. Do you understand?”
“Yes,” Burt whispered. He pulled his ballcap off and rubbed at the top of his head, his eyes, his mouth and chin.
“Spencer is the best, Mr. Hummel,” Grandmother said after a moment. “If Blaine did not have Joseph, he’d have Spencer.”
Dad said, “This isn’t fair.” He stood and walked over, sinking next to Blaine and hugging him. “I’m sorry,” he murmured into Blaine’s ear. “I love you so much, son.”
Blaine wrapped his arms around Dad and said, “It’ll be alright, Dad.”
Blaine didn’t pull away from Dad until Joseph cleared his throat. Dad let him go reluctantly and Blaine looked up to see Kurt standing sheepishly in front of Joseph. “Hi,” he said, glance darting from the floor to Blaine and back. “I’m sorry for earlier. I was a little – overwhelmed.” He chuckled nervously, hands fluttering by his sides.
Blaine held out a hand. Kurt took it with a sigh of relief and Blaine pulled him down while Dad stood, heading back for the couch.
“Mr. Hummel,” Joseph asked, “where will your wife and stepson be?”
“Um, Carole probably just clocked out for the day,” Burt said. “I have no idea about Finn.”
“Today’s a Rachel day,” Kurt said, lifting his head off Blaine’s shoulder. “No football. There was probably an emergency glee meeting about the – the outing, though. Probably at Rachel’s; she has the most space.”
“We need to get them,” Joseph said.
Burt opened his mouth, protest plain on his face – and then he looked at Kurt. He looked at Kurt for a long moment, and everyone was silent.
“Fine,” Burt said. “Limo again?”
Joseph nodded. He asked Kurt, “Does Mr. Hudson usually drive himself to the young lady’s house?”
Kurt shook his head.
“Very well,” Joseph said.
Burt looked at Kurt again. “I’ll be back, kiddo.”
“Bye, Dad,” Kurt murmured, and then he buried his face in Blaine’s chest.
Blaine started humming ‘Somewhere Only We Know,’ but he didn’t sing.
![[identity profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/openid.png){kind=small}
Date: 2012-07-22 03:20 pm (UTC)SUEEE. I love how much of a BAMF she is. Really, anyone who has a soft spot for Kurt is OK in my book. :D And this bit made me laugh: “Hush, Porcelain,” she interrupted. “The grown-ups are talking.” Always so casually abrasive, even right after that tender moment. *g* I love the way you write her. And Grandmama Clarisse! And Burt, and Joseph, and all of them! Oh, Kurt. I thought he was holding up a little too well. I like that now it's Blaine who's offering Kurt support--it's a nice reversal that shows how much the two rely on each other. Just, this fic, so much ♥
Re:
Date: 2012-07-23 01:21 am (UTC)Thank you so very much!
Yeah, for all Kurt's strength, sometimes he just needs to have a breakdown, you know? And Sue really does care for him, despite herself.