Work Text:
I.
BroadwayNOW.com Forum
THREAD: THE DARK CLOAK
TrentRhymesWithRent: OMG!!! GUYS! IT’S HAPPENING!!! THEY’RE REALLY MAKING IT!!! Someone please hold me. I am so here for another April Rhodes Production. Guys, how many years have we been waiting for this???
PorcelainUnicorn: Just when you think they can’t come up with anything new or original -- another superhero based musical. You would have thought they learned their lesson when Spider-Man bombed.
Nightbird95: I, for one, am looking forward to it. I hear it’s supposed to be set in the 1890s.
PorcelainUnicorn: Oh, god, it’s going to be a cross between Phantom of the Opera and Batman, isn’t it? That sounds like a trainwreck waiting to happen.
Nightbird95: or it could be brilliant! April Rhodes’s track record might be hit or miss but at least everything she does is big. True -- Free Willy: A Whale’s Tale might have been -- questionable -- but the third act was very moving.
PorcelainUnicorn: Yes, it moved us all out of our seats because it became a waterpark. Look, I won’t deny Broadway is due in for a dark, historical based feature but this sounds…
Nightbird95: Brilliant? Original? Fresh? The writing team on it is completely solid.
TrentRhymesWithRent:: THERE’S GOING TO BE OPEN AUDITIONS GUYS!!! OPEN. AUDITIONS!!!
Nightbird95: Well, I’m sold.
PorcelainUnicorn: Shocking - the guy with the comic book inspired URL is on board.
Nightbird95: Shocking - @porcelainunicorn once again doesn’t have anything nice to say.
TrentRhymesWithRent: GUYS!!!! COOPER J. ANDERSON IS SAID TO BE ATTACHED!!! THE COOPER J. ANDERSON.
PorcelainUnicorn: Okay, well now you have my attention.
Nightbird95: Oh dear, god….
*
“What are you doing?” Kurt Hummel slammed his computer shut, startled when his roommate Elliott poked his head in.
“Nothing,” Kurt let out a squeak.
“Not the forums again.”
“Well, there are people wrong on the internet again.”
Elliott gave a smirk. “And you just have to be the one to correct them all?”
“Well, who else is going to do it?” Kurt gave Elliott a look. “And what’s with the steampunk outfit again?”
“Open auditions for some nineteenth century superhero thing,” Elliott’s eyes bulged with excitement. “It’s going to be totally glam. You in?”
Kurt groaned but got up anyway. A job was a job and he was a poor, recent college graduate. What was the worst that could happen?
II.
Elliott waited for him outside the auditorium, eagerness spread wide across his face. “They said I was very enthusiastic but maybe too much for the part. Please tell me you did better.”
Kurt gave a shrug. “I decided to just go for it and sing Brittany Spears’s Toxic in the nude.”
“Really?”
“No.”
Elliott shot him a look.
“The part is ‘glorified fanboy #2’ and has, like, two lines. I did my best. I won’t weep over not getting this one.”
Before Elliott could respond, the most beautiful man in North America walked by.
Kurt let out an audible gasp. “Oh my god, it’s Cooper J. Anderson.”
Elliott was also staring -- but at the beautiful, dark haired beauty in a red dress. “Oh my god, is that Santana Lopez? Do you think she’s in this, too?”
“Okay, I now so have to get this part.”
*
BroadwayNOW.com Forum
THREAD: COOPER J. ANDERSON
PorcelainUnicorn: You guys I’m pretty sure I just ran into Cooper J Anderson at an audition and I’m pretty sure I can confirm that he is indeed the most beautiful man on the planet and omg you guys I think he turned and looked at me and those eyes THOSE EYES ACCCHKKK I need to get this part…
Nightbird95: Oh yay, this thread is running again [sarcasm]
PorcelainUnicorn: Why are you here if he bugs you so much?
Nightbird95: Idk, maybe I’m a glutton for punishment.
PorcelainUnicorn: Cooper J Anderson is one of the most talented actors ever to grace a Broadway stage..
Nightbird95: Do you really need to use his full name all the time?
PorcelainUnicorn: He is just amazing and lights up the stage in everything he does. He is brilliant and gorgeous and god I would love to share the stage with him even if it’s for ten seconds.
Nightbird95: He’s mediocre at best and relies on a false sense of charm and misleading good looks.
PorcelainUnicorn: What is your problem? Did he do something to you personally? Because it’s not like you really know him.
Nightbird95: What if I said I did?
III.
“You’ve been awfully quiet. What’s going on?”
“Nothing.” Kurt tried to play it off coolly, but his dad can always tell. Even over the phone. “I’m just worried about you.”
His dad scoffed. “I’m fine. I’ve got Carole. I have the twenty or so doctor’s appointments on my calendar. Usually you’re a chatterbox, something’s up.”
Kurt remained silent for a long beat. “I did an audition. For an actual Broadway musical.”
“Kurt, that’s great! Why didn’t you start with that?”
The heaviness of his life hung over him. “It’s a nothing part, Dad. Not anything to really tell you about.”
“Still! Sounds like a great jumping off point possibility.” He wasn’t sure if his dad’s enthusiasm was making it worse or not. “It could lead to great things and then maybe you won’t have to work at that diner anymore…”
“Yeah, I was thinking about that. Maybe playing dress up at a kitschy diner isn’t really getting me anywhere. Maybe I should come home.”
“Kurt…”
“I should be there for you. You need me.”
“Kurt!...”
“It’s been five years, Dad, I don’t think New York really needs me…”
“Ohio doesn’t really need you either.”
“Thanks, Dad.” He rolled his eyes. He was sure his dad could hear him do it.
“You know what I mean. Good things are still in your future, kiddo. I know it.”
Kurt wished he could believe him.
*
BroadwayNOW.com Forum
Messages
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Hey, wanted to reach out and check in on you.
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: No one has heard from you in more than a few days. I really hope it wasn’t anything I said. I know we spar a bit, but we’ve always had a decent amount of respect for each other.
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Nightbird?
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: Hey, hi, no it isn’t anything you said. I’ve gotten a few messages actually, and I just made a post saying I’m fine. Family has just been… difficult lately. Thanks for reaching out.
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: I’m sorry to hear that. If there’s anything you need to talk about -- I really do consider you a friend.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: That’s sweet. If I need anything, I’ll reach out.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: But if it’s okay, I really don’t feel like talking about it right now.
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: That’s fine!
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Okay, but if you don’t mind me asking, and you really don’t have to answer…
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Do you really know Cooper J Anderson?
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: Oh for the love of god please stop using his full name. He’ll answer to Cooper even if you don’t know him. Or Coop. Or hey idiot.
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Oh my god, you really do know him???
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: Unfortunately, yes.
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: What??? Did you date??? Oh god, is he gay???
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: Gross :P
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: No, he’s slept with most of the women in New York
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: I’m related to him.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: I probably shouldn’t say more than that. I probably shouldn’t have even said it on main. Can you do me a favor and not say anything?
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Yes, of course!
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Alright, so please tell me you also tried out for The Dark Cloak
IV.
“Kurt?” Elliott shakes him a little. “Are you okay? Kurt?”
“Yeah,” Kurt manages to say. He’s so in shock he should probably be sitting down. “I got the part.”
“Dude!!”
“It’s mostly just a chorus part. But I’m now officially Cooper J Anderson’s biggest fan.”
“Is that really the name of the character?”
“No, it’s Theodore.”
“I don’t really see you as a Theodore. But dude?!?”
“Here’s the craziest thing…” He’s still shaking. How is this real? “I get to be part of a duet. So, first of all, you were right, Santana Lopez is in it -- she’s the villain, Incendiary. And her number one lackey and I sing a duet about how no one appreciates their biggest fans despite all we do.”
“That’s… kind of insane, but I love it.”
“I know I was shitting on this thing before, but Elliott, if I’m being honest? I kind of love it, too.”
*
BroadwayNOW.com Forum
THREAD: THE DARK CLOAK
PorcelainUnicorn: Guys!! I got the part!! I GOT THE PART!!!
ShiningStar88: Oh my god, I’m so jealous! They wouldn’t have me for a callback.
GothQueeeen: You have got to share any details you can!
TrentRhymesWithRent: THAT’S SO CRAZY OMG MY FRIEND IS GOING TO BE IN A REAL BROADWAY SHOW THIS IS SO EXCITING WE NEED TO CELEBRATE AAHHHH! YAY!!!
Nightbird95: Trent. Breathe, honey, before you pass out.
Nightbird95: @porcelainunicorn - that’s really awesome, congrats!
PorcelainUnicorn: So, I know you tried out, too. Did you get anything?
Nightbird95: I did!
PorcelainUnicorn: That’s great - congrats to you, too. Too bad we promised anonymity here. I’d love to know who you are.
Nightbird95: I’ll keep an eye out for you. I wonder if we’ll be able to figure it out.
Nightbird95: In any case, I hope you enjoy your part -- even if you don’t like superheroes.
PorcelainUnicorn: I hope you enjoy your part, too! Even if Cooper J Anerson drives you crazy.
Nightbird95: You know, it won’t be all that bad. The only time I’m on stage with him will be when a bunch of us are trying to take him out.
Nightbird95: Oof, I need to learn to stop talking.
V.
Kurt stepped out onto the stage. He was early to the read through and the theater was still dark and quiet. Still, he got chills. Just last month he had been in those very seats, watching a limited revival of The Rocky Horror Picture Show. And now he was the one looking out into the audience. The energy, the madness, the sheer excitement still reverberated in the emptiness. He may not be the star of this one, but that doesn’t mean he won’t be someday.
Goodbye Diner. Goodbye Self-Doubt. All roads to his future started here.
What even was his life?
Kurt smiled giddily to himself as he took the stage.
*
BroadwayNOW.com Forum
Messages
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Were you at the readthru today? .
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: I was! Yes!
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: I kept trying to figure out who you were. You aren’t the tall, lanky guy with the earring, are you? Or, oh, that beefy guy who seems to be okay with wearing shorts in the middle of winter?
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: How do you know I’m even a guy?
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Probably based on the number of times you’ve said ‘fuck, I’m so gay…’ and ‘I’d totally go down on that guy.’
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: ::crylaugh:: okay fair.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: Did you have fun? Do you like the show? Was Coop everything you’ve dreamed he’d be?
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: I won’t deny that Cooper J Anderson was dreamy as ever. But, you know, I think I was so caught up in being in a real Broadway show I didn’t really think about that much. I’ve wanted to be a part of a show for so long that it felt surreal.
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Sorry, that’s silly.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: It’s not silly.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: My first show was just as magical.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: However, I guess I’m still figuring it out, too. I’ve never been a headliner for a show or anything yet.
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Wait, this isn’t your first show?
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: No. I’ve been on stage since I was a kid.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: Our parents used to put my brother and I in shows all the time.
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: What???
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: You’re leading quite the double life being on these forums.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: It’s kind of fun -- makes me feel normal actually.
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Okay, well, I want all the details now. Or at least anything you’re willing to share.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: Wanna hear about the time I figured out I was gay during a production of Oliver ?
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: ::laughface:: Yes, please share! I’ll go get popcorn.
VI.
Someone was staring at him. He could feel it.
Kurt turned, and looked down the tiny staircase that led from the stage down to the rooms below and there stood a guy. Some guy he didn’t know but the moment Kurt laid eyes on him he felt something in his world shift. He didn’t know who this was -- this beautiful man with dark curls and honey-colored eyes and an inviting grin on his lips. But as others made their way up and down the steps, the two of them remained locked in a gaze, as if time was frozen for the two of them.
“Can I help you?” Kurt asked, when he could finally speak.
The guy took a step up. Kurt had never had a guy look at him that - as if mesmerized by his very being. It was odd. But not a bad odd. “I believe you're the one I’m looking for.”
“What?”
“I think you’re my duet partner.”
“I’m sorry…”
“I’m Blaine--” the guy held out his hand.
Kurt shook it. He felt a spark of something. This was new. “Kurt.”
“Yes, Kurt.” The guy didn’t let go, and gently pulled him down the steps. “You’re the fanboy to my lackey.”
“Huh?”
“In the show - we have a duet together.”
Oh. Oh!
Kurt grinned. “Why, hello.” Beautiful.
Forget Cooper J Anderson. Kurt had found the actual most gorgeous man in North America. And was holding his hand.
*
BroadwayNOW.com Forum
Messages
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: So, after that my friend Sam dared me to go as Nightbird.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: Turns out the uniform is incredibly comfortable, and I kind of loved dressing up as him.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: Plus, I have this thing about birds…
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: … Porcelain? You still there?
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: I’m completely boring you, aren’t I?
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: No, no, sorry. I’m just distracted.
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: I just have something on my mind. It’s fine - you’re not boring me at all.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: Is it something you want to talk about?
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Idk. It’s kind of personal. Kind of weird. Idk if you want to hear about it.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: We’ve been going kind of personal for weeks now. And I just told you I have a thing about birds. Whatever it is, I’m sure it won’t be that weird. But - only if you want to.
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Have you ever been in love? Like - really in love?
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: I guess. Sort of. Nothing that was ever earth-shattering. But I have fallen in love before.
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Oh. I haven’t. I’ve never been in a real relationship either.
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: I mean, I sorta dated this cheerleader in high school - but clearly that didn’t work out. And I’ve fooled around with a few guys in college. But. Idk. I’ve never fallen in love with anyone. And I’m beginning to wonder if that’s weird.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: I don’t think that’s weird at all! We all experience things at our own pace, you know?
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: That’s true, I guess.
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Do you believe in love at first sight?
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: The romantic in me believes it could happen, but I’ve never experienced that either.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: Look, Kurt, I know we’ve been joking about your tiny crush on Cooper but Idk if I’d call that love.
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Omg, No! No, I know what that is… no.
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: No, I was just thinking out loud. Don’t mind me. Forget I said anything.
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: So, a Nightbird costume, huh?
VII.
BroadwayNOW.com Forum
Messages
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: See, I told you that you should be listening to the Vogue podcast.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: You’re right, you’re right. I mean who would have thought that Nicki Minaj trading fashion tips with Billie Eilish would be so… unhinged.
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Right??? It’s not just about making sure you’re doing the right nighttime moisturizing routine or how to get to perfect without a mirror. Oh, and I get this - a few weeks ago they did a whole thing about how to avoid foods that make you breakout, but I do draw the line at giving up a good cheesecake.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: Plain or fruit topping?
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Chocolate drizzle
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: Decadent. ::crylaugh::
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Well, if you’re going to go all out, go all out, right?. ::wink::
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: ::laugh:: You know, if you are into podcasts, you really should try out some of the Broadway ones. I have some great recommendations…
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Ooh, I do! I do some of the professional ones -- like how to get auditions and stuff. And then there’s the one where they talk to various productions. And, oh, that one -- Listening Behind The Curtain with Adra and Allen.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: Omg, that one is so terrible. Why do you even listen to it?
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: It’s got the greatest gossip.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: It’s got the greatest amount of shit that’s made up. It’s worse than the National Enquirer.
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Yes, but they do have some very telling interviews from time to time.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: Didn’t they just do a whole episode on Cooper?
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: … Yes, and I found it very educational.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: Did he talk about his copious amount of hair care products and his ridiculous tips on why pointing is the best way to express emotion.
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: So, you listened to it!
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: Oh, Porcelain… You know you could probably go up to him and just ask him yourself now.
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: I couldn’t… It’s still too scary. Are you sure you won’t tell me who you are and we could do it together.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: ::unsureface::
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Okay, fine, but you’re going to hear all the details then…
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: Yay ::upsidedownface::
*
“Kurt… Kurt? Kurt!!”
Kurt was too busy being buried in his phone to notice the irritation in Elliott’s voice. He held up one finger, using a thumb to finish typing out a message. “What?”
“Are you going to help me put up the Christmas lights, or are you just going to continue to talk to one of your boyfriends?”
“I wish I had such troubles,” Kurt said as he begrudgingly helped Elliott untwist the glittering lights that were about to be strung around the window. “Tragically, I still have no boyfriends and was actually just looking up a podcast someone recommended to me.”
“Was it that guy you said was the most beautiful male specimen on the planet?” Elliott asked - a gentle tease.
“No,” Kurt said, a little too quickly. He let out a sigh. “We haven’t really had a chance to talk since we’ve met. Our scenes don’t really mix until our one song with our duet, and we haven’t had a chance to rehearse that yet. Oh, but that will be the most wonderful of times…” Kurt stared off into space, dreamily.
“Okay…”
“Anyway, the podcast was recommended to me by Nightbird.”
“Oh, god,” Elliott rolled his eyes, muttering ‘nightbird’ under his breath.
“What? He’s my friend!”
“Your friend - whom you’ve never met, and yet you never shut up about him.”
Kurt scrunched his nose. “I don’t talk about him that much.”
“Oh, right,” Elliott shot back. “Don’t you think it’s a little odd that this dude claims to be related to Cooper J Anderson, and be in the same production as you, but refuses to tell you who he really is.”
Kurt considered. “I mean, he’s really private. Maybe he’s really embarrassed. Maybe he has really bad breath. Oh, god, maybe he’s a bad dresser! Look, have I thought about who it might possibly be? Yes, sure. But he said he’d rather not go into it, so I’m respecting that.”
“Right,” Elliott nodded. “Because you’re too busy being enchanted by the mysterious Blaine.”
“You haven’t seen his ass!” Kurt cried. “Whatever, shut up and hand me the lights. God, what are you doing, you’re twisting them up again. Elliott!”
VIII.
“Did you get the package I sent?” Kurt paced back and forth across his living room, like he always did when he talked with his dad.
“Kind of a weird anniversary gift, Kurt,” there was a light tone in Burt’s voice. “I don’t fully know what to do with it.”
“It’s a men’s hygiene and beauty kit, dad. It’s simple - mostly razors and a few lotions, and a pair of trimmers. Just follow my instructions, I’m sure Carole will appreciate it.”
“Well… I don’t know about that.”
“Everyone can use a good nose and ear hair trimming every once in a while, Dad.”
His dad grunted into the phone. “So, what’s the deal with this show? Carole and I had planned on coming to see it when we visited for Christmas.”
Kurt let out a sigh. “It’s on pause for the moment. The director had some kind of mental breakdown after Cooper J Anderson refused to stop pointing at all of the other actors. She’s seeking therapy and I think they’re bringing someone new in, but I haven’t heard anything yet. Meanwhile, the girl who plays his love interest went into labor - she didn’t really even know she was pregnant somehow? She just thought she was gaining weight over the past few months. The understudy is fine to take over, but she broke her ankle after the choreographer decided a lift was needed for the final love song and Cooper J Anderson dropped her. She might be suing, but I don’t think she’s leaving the show. And all of that is fine because it gives April Rhodes -- she’s the producer of the show and is, if you ask me, kind of insane because she’s always carrying a flask of something that smells like rubbing alcohol and has made out with, like, half the cast -- anyway it gives her enough time to premiere her limited one-woman version of A Christmas Carol that will take place over the holidays. I’m kind of unclear about the details on that. Anyway, at least we still have our funding. The show has just been pushed back to next year. And don’t worry, I’ll still be able to get you and Carole a couple of front row seats. Or, well, maybe second row - apparently Santana Lopez’s entire internet fandom is showing up the first night - at least she threatened that…”
His dad let out another grunt. “So, what’s the point of this little comb thing? It’s so tiny?”
“It’s a mustache comb, Dad.”
“Well, why would….why…”
Kurt rolled his eyes.
*
BroadwayNOW.com Forum
Messages
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Any news on when we’ll be back?
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: Not heard anything. But I’m hoping we’ll be able to do a few more rehearsals before we break for the holidays.
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Is it just me or is this show turning into an unmitigated disaster?
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: ::laughing:: It’s really not that bad.
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: It’s not? I’m amazed half the cast hasn’t staged a coup against Cooper J Anderson yet.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: Ah, I see he’s still your favorite actor then.
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Hush, I can still appreciate beauty even if I can admit he certainly is lacking brains.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: Well, then, I feel half vindicated.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: And look, all productions go through this. Back when my brother and I were younger -- we did a regional performance of Phantom of the Opera. During the soft open, the props department went a little hard on the candles and Christine’s wig caught on fire. Nearly burned the whole theater down.
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Wow. Your brother didn’t have anything to do with it, right?
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: Haha, this time, no. But he’s created his fair share of aggravations.
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: It’s funny that you are always so annoyed about your brother -- and yet it seems like the two of you have some great stories to tell.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: I guess he’s not so bad. I mean, I’m sure if you knew him, he’d drive you crazy, too. But he is my brother. And he always makes sure that we do shows together. Still, there are some times I wish I didn’t feel so attached to him. Branch out on my own, you know?
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Yeah, I get it. Sort of. I don’t really know what it’s like to have a sibling. I grew up an only child. I mean, when dad remarried, I gained a stepbrother. But he unfortunately passed away a long time ago. I didn’t get to know him very well.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: I’m so sorry, Kurt. ::heart::
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: ::smileyface::
IX.
Kurt stood in front of the mirror, smoothing down the ends of his jacket. It was the first time he was seeing his costume in full. He hadn’t been impressed at first, but now that it was on, the cream colored, late nineteenth century cut was working for him. The hat was still a bit much -- nearly a foot too tall for his head, with large, white feathers pluming from one side. He tilted it slightly - if he had to wear such a ridiculous thing, at least he’d do it with a sense of style.
“Looking good, Hummel.”
Kurt blushed slightly as Blaine came beside him. He, also, was in full costume -- a dark, more modern suit with hints of red along the cuffs and collar. His hair was slicked back, making his dark, mischievous eyes more pronounced. Kurt couldn’t believe how weak in the knees he still felt every time Blaine moved into his space.
“Not bad yourself,” Kurt said, trying to play it cool.
Kurt kept his eyes forward on the mirror, trying to ignore Blaine’s intentional gaze over his shoulder. He looked almost devilish, but that was, he supposed, the point.
“The hat is a nice touch.”
“The hat is insane. I don’t know how it won’t fall off when I need to dance.”
Blaine gave a shrug. “I’m sure they’ll get it pinned to your head.” He let out a sweet laugh, the sound of which couldn’t help but bring a smile to Kurt’s face. “Besides, I have a thing for feathers.”
Kurt snapped his head back. There was something oddly familiar about that thought.
*
Text from Unknown Number: Hi Kurt! It’s Blaine. I hope you don’t mind that I asked around for your number. I mean, I totally get if you want to just block me because, omg, who like even does something like this? But anyway, I just wanted you to know that you were fantastic during practice today. I’m looking forward to rehearsing our number more. So, I realize this might be last minute, but I have these tickets to this charming theater troupe that does these outdoor performances in Central Park. And, I know, it’s December and freezing but hot chocolate will be on me, and seriously, you have to see them perform. Let me know!!
Your Message: OMG, Blaine!! Yes, count me in. I have this new scarf I’ve been dying to show off.
Your Message: Is this a group thing then? Where are we meeting?
Text from Blaine: Just us.
Text from Blaine: (I assume that’s okay.)
Text from Blaine: You know that place where they start the fancy carriage rides? By the bridge there - they have their stage set up - you can miss it. 7pm.
Your Message: I’ll be there!
Your Message: So, you asked around for my number, huh?
Text from Blaine: I just know how into local theater you are.
Text from Blaine: ::winkyface::
Your Message: Oh, definitely interested in local theater. ::slygrin::
X.
Your Message: Made it home.
Your Message: I had a lovely time tonight, Blaine.
Text from Blaine: I’m glad.
Text from Blaine: I would have walked you home, you know.
Your Message: You live on the other side of the city and we both have to be up tomorrow! I will not be hearing it!
Your Message: Besides, I was freezing, and had I stayed any longer, I would have succumbed to your lovely company and conversation and frozen to death in the process.
Text from Blaine: Well, that’s what happens when you wear scarves that are clearly made by people who don’t know what winter is.
Your Message: It is vintage and looked great with my jacket. Sometimes fashion is pain.
Text from Blaine: If you insist. However, that just means next time, I’ll have to find a way to keep you warm. ::winkyface::
Your Message: ::blush::
Your Message: So are you ready for tomorrow? This is the first time we’re singing in front of the whole company. I’m a little nervous.
Text from Blaine: You shouldn’t be! You’re a natural talent, Kurt. And we’ve been doing this for months now. We have this one in our back pockets.
Your Message: ::smileyface:: Thank you.
Your Message: I probably should probably get to bed.
Text from Blaine: Me, too.
Text from Blaine: Hey, Kurt? One last thing… … …
Text from Blaine: I had a lovely time, too.
*
The world began to fade away.
Kurt had been nervous all day. He had been nervous all the way up until their cue when the company drew back and the spotlight shone brilliantly upon them. But when the music started, and Blaine closed in on his side, it didn’t matter that every single eye was on him. That in a few weeks time they’d be sharing this moment with hundreds of people in the seats that disappeared into the darkness in front of them. The minute he heard Blaine’s voice take the lead, Kurt let the song take over, and followed without a single effort.
There was something magical happening on that stage. It was a love song, a duet, a push and pull of desires. It didn’t matter that, technically, Kurt was singing about Cooper J Anderson’s character -- Cooper, who no longer was an object of admiration for Kurt, but just another pretty face who didn’t have much else going on beneath it. It didn’t matter that Blaine was singing about Santana Lopez, easily one of the most beautiful women Kurt had ever seen in person - and yet never once turned Blaine’s head.
This was for them -- their song, their story. There was no outside world. Just the two of them, the electricity of their chemistry sparkling between them. And, for just ever a moment, there were no characters, no costumes, no pretend on the stage at all. Just Kurt and this guy - this beautiful guy who laughed and flirted and seemed to hang onto Kurt’s every word. And Kurt wanted this moment to last forever.
But their final notes rang out. The music ended. And the world came crashing in.
Oh, what a rush. If only they could capture that every night…
XI.
Months ago, when all of this started, and Kurt started rehearsing that special duet, he allowed himself a few extra seconds to stare. A few extra seconds to drink Blaine in, to enjoy his beautiful feature, and move on. He had no idea who Blaine was, let alone who he would be attracted to. And he most definitely never wanted to make Blaine ever feel uncomfortable. But when Blaine started giving him looks back, when he began to grin when he noticed Kurt linger a little too long, or when he began to follow Kurt from a distance, he knew his little game was safe. Was enjoyed. Was reciprocated.
So, Kurt’s habit continued; catching where Blaine was, what he was doing, whenever they shared space together. It was, somehow, comforting knowing he was there.
But being hyper-aware of Blaine brought about new realizations -- namely, the unspoken tension between him and Cooper J Anderson. It was small things at first; tense looks, sharp words, the fact that Cooper was more critical and more demanding of Blaine than anyone else. And then, more recently, the outbursts, the accusations, the storming off the stage. Blaine had tried (but Kurt had still seen) to keep things quiet, hidden. But Cooper wasn’t one to hide in the shadows no matter how it seemed to hurt Blaine.
Kurt’s suspicions were verified when snuck a look at the program notes. (Oh, how did he miss this earlier when it seems so obvious now?) It wasn’t his place, he had thought for a while, to get involved. But only a week out from opening night, and Blaine looking so miserable after a particularly cruel jab from Cooper, Kurt couldn’t help himself anymore…
*
Your message: Hey… you did great today.
Text from Blaine: Thanks.
Your message: Also… I saw that Cooper was being an ass again today. I’m sorry. ::frownyface::
Text from Blaine: Well. He is what he is.
Your message: I know it’s not my business, and you can totally tell me to stay out of it -- but he’s your brother, right?
Text from Blaine: … … …
Text from Blaine: Yeah.
Text from Blaine: For the record, I auditioned and got the part fair and square.
Your message: Of course you did! Blaine, you’re an amazing talent!
Your message: Do you want to talk about it?
Text from Blaine: Idk…
Your message: Look, I won’t push you into anything you don’t want to do.
Your message: But… I know this great coffee shop not far from my place. A few of my friends and I sometimes go there and just bitch about the world. It’s quiet, I think we single handedly keep the place open. I sometimes go there when I just want to escape from the real world.
Your message: I’ll be there this evening. If you wanna hang and just come to a relaxing place, I’ll be there. And if not - that’s fine, too.
Your message: But for what it’s worth -- I’m grateful to have you in my life either way.
Text from Blaine: ::smileyface::
Text from Blaine: I’ll see you there.
XII.
BroadwayNOW.com Forum
Messages
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Hey, I know it’s been a while but I’m wound tighter than a ball of yarn and just need to explode on someone. And I thought I’d check in on you with opening night being so close. How are you doing?
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: Well that’s quite the image… ::smileyface::
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: I’m alright. I’m excited, a little nervous, but we’ve put a lot of work in and I’m ready.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: You?
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: I’m downright terrified. Very excited, but very terrified.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: Awww. ::heart::
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: Well, I wouldn’t worry too much. I’m sure you’re a talent, and no matter how this show goes, I’m sure it’s the first of many.
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: You’re so sweet. Though I’m sure it must be easy since you’re such a pro.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: Mmm, I’m not sure experience makes it any easier, if I’m being honest.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: I guess though….
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: Can I confide in you about something?
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Yes, anything!
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: I think I may have found someone I really could fall for.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: And I guess that has me preoccupied.
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: ::eyebulging:: Really??
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: Yeah. He’s just… everything I’ve ever wanted in a partner. And I think I’m more afraid of those feelings than anything I do on stage.
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Oh. My. God. Well, have you told him? Maybe he feels the same way about you?
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: Idk. I’m not sure where he’s at. I think I should just wait until after we start the show. I don’t want to do anything that may jeopardize where I’m at right now. I feel like I’m just starting to figure things out and finally get on my own two feet, you know?
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Oh, sure…sure…
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: You will keep me updated though, right??
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: Absolutely! ::smileyface::
*
“So, according to the website, your parents’ plane gets in around five.”
Kurt paced the living room, too distracted to really hear what Elliott was saying from his desk. “I thought I had it all figured out. I thought I might be crazy -- that I might actually be falling in love with two different people, but I don’t think I am.”
“That’s going to cut it close,” Elliott continued, not looking up from his laptop. “If the show starts at eight? Only three hours - I mean, the airport isn’t that far away, but if they want to get here and drop their stuff off and have dinner, are you sure they can’t get an earlier flight?”
“I mean, the whole bird thing is a little weird, but it can’t be coincidental,” Kurt said, going through everything in his mind again. “And the fact that they’re both related to Cooper. And the fact that they’re both in the show -- no, I’m right. Blaine and Nightbird are the same person, they have to be. Nightbird is, just like, his secret identity. Oh god, I’ve been thinking about superheroes too much lately.”
“Are you giving me money for cab fare? I don’t see how we do this without a car. I don’t know if I feel comfortable asking your dad for money…”
“So, the logical conclusion would be that if Nightbird is falling in love with someone… that’s gotta be me. That’s gotta be me, right?” Kurt sat on the couch, the whole thing felt like too much to stand. “I mean, I keep playing it out, like an updated version of You’ve Got Mail , and at the end when we’re supposed to meet it turns out we already knew each other and fell in love, and I could be like Meg Ryan and say ‘I hoped it’d be you’...”
Elliott spun in his chair. “If you already know, wouldn’t that make you Tom Hanks?”
“Oh, my god, I have to ask Nightbird to meet…”
“Kurt…”
“I’m crazy, I have gone crazy, right? My life simply can’t be this much of a romcom, can it? Well, maybe it’s a superhero/romcom crossover?”
“Kurt!”
“Because if it is, I’d be so happy and be in love with an amazing guy and everything would be perfect. And when has my life ever allowed a piece of perfection in it…”
“KURT!!”
“YES! I will give you the money for a cab - just make sure my parents are there when the curtain opens, alright?”
Elliott stared blankly for a moment before he burst out laughing. “God, I hope Blaine is this magical Nightbird or else I’m going to have my own villain origin story…”
XIII.
BroadwayNOW.com Forum
THREAD: THE DARK CLOAK
TrentRhymesWithRent: OMG!!! IT’S HERE!!! I’M HERE!!! I’M SO READY FOR THIS NIGHT -- SOMEONE HOLD ME MY BODY IS READY!!! EVEN FROM THE BALCONY I CAN SEE THE STAGE CLEARLY OMG I’M GOING TO JUST DIE WHEN I SEE COOPER J ANDERSON LIVE!!!!
ShiningStar88: So, uh, you excited, Trent?
TrentRhymesWithRent: AAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHAAAAAHHHHHHH
*
The New York Underground Post Review: A Superhero Musical? More like Super horrific
The Dark Cloak - Reviewed
By Sue Sylvester
Normally, I would not be caught dead setting foot in any of this city’s run down collection of buildings they call theaters -- where once inside you are knocked over musically with optimism and gay and my god does every show need that much glitter? It’s bad enough that their advertising is so heavily reliant on eye-gouging neon lighting. I’ve had to sue the city after being nearly blinded by such terribleness. But I won these tickets in a bar fight, and thought, hey, why the hell not? Besides, this ole rag’s poor excuse for a culture section should be classed up with a little more Sue Sylvester…
…There are few people more attractive than leads Cooper J Anderson and Santana Lopez. I would give my left breast for either of them to sign it if an opportunity arose. But alas, they are both completely wasted in tired superhero cliches and shrillingly stupid monologues. I thought this was an enemies to lovers story -- but instead Anderson is led astray by a pretty (dull) love interest while the sizzling Lopez goes up in smoke by the second act…
…The songs are corny, the writing is tepid and by god I had more fun getting my head beat with a glass bottle during that bar fight. But if there is one bright spot, and I mean if there can be any bright spot in this travesty against humanity, it is the incredibly compelling, homoerotic duet sung by Anderson’s younger, and just as good looking brother, Blaine and I’m told new to the stage and oh does he have a voice like a swan that does things to my nether regions, Kurt Hummel. Their fourth wall breaking commentary throughout the show is easily the best writing this thing has to offer and their chemistry is enough that I just want to lock them in a room somewhere and watch them do things to each other. If April Rhodes would sober up enough to see what was in front of her, she’d make a musical out of that and save us from this monstrosity…
XIV.
Kurt sat at his vanity, finishing the last of his evening routine. He wasn’t sure how he could possibly sleep -- not after tonight -- but he had to get some sleep. He would, after all, need to do this all again tomorrow. He took a deep breath, and finished rubbing the last bit of moisturizer into his face, trying not to stare into the mirror, past himself, and to the figuring lying underneath the covers of his bed.
The show had been amazing. The audience of opening night was wild and loud and the show became alive in a way that Kurt had never expected. Nothing had ever been more thrilling.
Almost nothing.
Afterwards was the cast party - thrown by April Rhodes herself. There was food and booze and way too much laughing. Kurt kept his wits about himself. He felt like he had to or it would have been all too much.
Blaine had not. And all night there had been touching and holding and Blaine’s beautiful eyes always coming back to him. Of course, Kurt wouldn’t push his luck further, nor would he take advantage of Blaine’s altered state. But as the party began to wind down; as the night turned to early morning, Blaine clung to Kurt’s side as they made their way out. And Kurt, ever the gentleman, wanted nothing more than to make sure Blaine remained safe.
The body in the mirror stirred. Kurt turned, feeling more nervous than he should.
“Are we at your place?” Blaine asked, lifting himself only slightly to survey his surroundings.
“I hope that’s alright,” Kurt said, slowly moving off the chair towards the bed. “You were really out of it at the party. And, I didn’t know where you lived.”
Blaine let out a small moan, burying his head back into the pillow. “I didn’t want to go home anyway.” He muttered. “I like it here. So cozy.” Blaine snuggled the duvet.
Kurt let out a little giggle as he climbed into the bed. God, it was almost like he was a teenager again with the nerves. He tried to play it off smoothly, getting under the covers, lying on his side without really looking too much at Blaine. “We should probably try to get some sleep,” he said, turning off the light.
“MMmmm, sleep,” Blaine muttered.
An arm wrapped around Kurt’s waist. He could feel the warmth of Blaine’s body snuggle around him. He knew he should sleep. He had to get at least a few hours. But even as he felt himself relaxing into Blaine’s touch, he wasn’t sure how he could let such a perfect night go.
*
Text from Blaine: I think that I am at your place
Text from Blaine: I know that I am hungover.
Text from Blaine: I just came back from the bathroom and some guy in the living room just gave me a wink and said ‘duuude’.
Your message: That would be my roommate Elliott.
Your message: I hope you don’t mind that I left you there. My dad and step-mom showed up earlier than I expected for breakfast and you were mostly dead asleep when they arrived.
Text from Blaine: Oh, that might explain the weird dream I had about people watching me sleep.
Your message: Yeah, I had to convince my dad that you weren’t a drunken hook up.
Text from Blaine: I wasn’t? Well, that’s a shame. ::wink:: ::wink::
Your message: Blaine! ::eyebulge::
Your message: Well, don’t feel like you have to stay. We’re on our way to the airport to drop them off, so I won’t be back for another hour or so.
Text from Blaine: Idk - it’s not like I have anything else to do.
Text from Blaine: Maybe I can make myself at home and get some coffee.
Text from Blaine: Does your roommate like really good scrambled eggs?
Your message: You are insane.
Your message: But you’re welcome to whatever you like.
Your message: Also, don’t listen to anything Elliott says. He’s an idiot.
XV.
Every night at the door there were hundreds of screaming fans. Cooper, of course, always had the biggest share. Santana, too, had her legion. Kurt himself had a few beloved followers now and he cherished each one who stayed to have him sign their Playbill. Blaine, however, had grown quite the following.
He was always one of the last ones out - perhaps to avoid the throngs who threw themselves at Cooper. But the girls (and a few guys) who waited for Blaine were as diligent as they were patient. Blaine showed up, a little messier post-show than he ever was at any other point of the day.
Every night, Kurt waited for him. Every night, Kurt thought he should be jealous of the attention Blaine received, of the offers and the cries and the sheer madness that swirled around him. But Kurt was not.
Because as friendly as Blaine was -- and he was to each and every one of them standing out there in the cold for him -- there was a moment that Kurt waited for. A moment where Blaine looked up and looked directly at him. Where, like on stage, it was a moment just for the two of them; where they locked eyes and Blaine smirked because at the end of the day, after each fan had had their moment, the madness faded away. And Blaine’s dark eyes looked longingly upon him.
Some nights they stayed up and talked, walking around the block before parting. Some nights it was absolute silence because they were too tired for anything else. But each night, it was an unspoken rule between them. They always wait for the other. They always head home together.
Somewhere between crushes and falling in love, Blaine became his best friend. And Kurt couldn’t quite help but think, as Blaine so easily, yet graciously, moved past his adoring fans to be at his side, that he was Blaine’s, too.
*
BroadwayNOW.com Forum
Messages
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Hey, Nightbird?
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: Yes, Porcelain?
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: I know we haven’t really been chatting much since the show went live. Or even since we really got into dress rehearsals. But I wanted you to know… you’re my favorite person on this site.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: That’s sweet of you.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: If I’m being honest.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: I feel the same way about you.
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: No one else makes this place as lively as you do.
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: I realize this may seem crazy. And I know you’ve been really wanting to keep your identity secret. But… Do you think maybe you and I could finally meet?
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: I know that’s rather forward but -- I feel like I already know you, you know?
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: Would it be such a bad thing - knowing you in person?
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: … … …
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have…
Nightbird95 to PorcelainUnicorn: There’s a lovely place I know in Central Park where they do local theater… Are you free Monday?
PorcelainUnicorn to Nightbird95: ::smileyface::
XVI.
Kurt bounced anxiously on his toes. The cold, winter’s wind made him shiver but he was excited to really feel its bite. He hadn’t been standing there long, but time seemed to stretch on forever. He knew who he was meeting, he knew it. But until he really saw…
“Hello, Porcelain.”
Startled, Kurt jumped, swinging around as he did so. A broad grin spread across his face when he saw who was standing there. His Nightbird. “I knew it would be you. I just knew.”
There he stood, the beautiful Blaine, wrapped tightly in his long, dark coat, a black scarf wrapped around his neck for good measure. It was like every romantic fantasy Kurt had ever had came crashing to him at once -- the two of them staring at each other adoringly in the snow.
“If I’m being honest,” Blaine said, taking a step forward. “I’ve known pretty much the whole time.”
“Really?”
“It was the intense love of scarves that gave you away…”
“Oh, I told Elliott I’d be Meg Ryan…”
Blaine came in closer, wrapping his arms around Kurt’s waist. “I’m not sure why I’ve waited so long to do this. I guess sometimes you spend your life looking for something, not realizing that it’s right there in front of you. And yet, here you are…”
Kurt put his arms around Blaine’s neck, losing himself in Blaine’s wide eyes. His heart was pounding. “Here I am…”
Their lips brushed together, tender and sweet. Kurt felt an electric chill run through his entire body. Blaine held him tighter, a little more surely, as they closed in for a real kiss, a deeper one, a passionate one that made Kurt’s head spin. Just like on stage, the world melted away, and it was just the two of them, just each other, just sweet kiss after sweet kiss.
Finally, after an eternity, they broke apart. Kurt felt dizzy, drunk on lust and love and adoration.
Blaine turned his head, almost red from disbelief. He let out a shiver. “Sorry. We should probably get warmed up.”
“I thought that’s what we were doing?”
With a twinkle in his eye, Blaine pushed in for a second kiss.
*
BroadwayNOW.com Forum
User PorcelainUnicorn : *offline*
*
Kurt Hummel’s Iphone 14 : Do Not Disturb Mode On
XVII.
BroadwayNOW.com Forum
THREAD: THE DARK CLOAK
TrentRhymesWithRent: Uh, guys? I’m worried. The show is not getting good reviews.
ShiningStar88: It’s still early. Some shows take some time to develop - hit the right audience.
GothQueeeen: Yeah, and you said you liked it, right Trent?
TrentRhymesWithRent: I thought it was brilliant! I would go ten more times if I had the money.
ShiningStar88: I’m going on Friday. I’ll have to report back what I see. Usually, I have impeccable taste, and if the soundtrack bites they’ve released are any indication, it’s a surefire hit!
GothQueeeen: Oohh, I’m so jealous! Why do I live on the other side of the country?? I wanna go see it so bad!!!
TrentRhymesWithRent: Oh, please come visit!! I will so take you to see it.
SubforSeb: You guys are so pathetic. The show is trash. The premise is dumb, the songs are rip offs, and there’s no bigger hack in Broadway right now than Cooper J. Anderson.
SubforSeb: Oh, and I don’t know why you guys always listen to Trent. He’d watch a dog shitting on a stage if he was able to afford it.
TrentRhymesWithRent: Why don’t you go screw off, Seb! We know you’re nothing but a troll.
SubforSeb: Not a troll - just someone who knows crap when they see it.
SweetnSpicy6969: Seb is right. This musical is trash. My daddy took me and all of my friends to see it on opening night. We left at intermission. Daddy asked for a refund and is suing the theater and April Rhodes to pay for my therapy bills.
ShiningStar88: ::rollseyes:: You guys seriously need to find something better to do. Why don’t you guys find the Unpopular Opinion thread and dominate on that.
GothQueeeen: Yeah, don’t make me hit the ‘report’ button again…
TrentRhymesWithRent: Where are @porcelainunicorn and @nightbird95??? Their takedowns of trolls are usually epic. C’mon guys, we need you!! Where are you???
*
Kurt awoke to fluttering, sweet butterfly kisses on his shoulder. “MMMmmm,”
“Morning,” Blaine’s soft voice said.
Kurt let himself relax into the bed, allowing himself to enjoy Blaine’s warm lips mapping his skin. “This is nice,” he said, his voice airy and light.
Blaine curled himself around Kurt, holding him tight. “I like waking up next to you.”
Kurt felt an unreal dizziness. What was his life?
Last night was magical. This morning, though, as reality settled in, felt even more special. Because Blaine was still here. And they were a they now…
Kurt turned, shifting so that he lay on his back. Blaine lazily moved up and over him, peppering more kisses up along his neck as he did so. Kurt let his legs spread open, allowing Blaine to settle snugly between them. “I have a very regimented morning routine, you know,” he said with a laugh. “And you are disrupting it.”
Blaine moaned into his skin as he kissed along Kurt’s cheek. “Is change so bad?” he ground his hips against Kurt’s, causing a shiver to spark throughout Kurt’s body.
Kurt gave a little gasp. “I suppose I can be persuaded.” He said, breathlessly, as he pulled Blaine down into a heated kiss.
Blaine laced his fingers through Kurt’s as they began to rock together.
XVIII.
Kurt walked out onto the darkened stage. All was quiet, all was still. There was no show tonight, no audience, no cast, no lights. He didn’t usually come to the theater when the show was dark, but he had left something there the day before, and wanted to make sure he picked it up. He was not sure why he decided to take a walk around, soak it all in. Everything remained perfectly in its place -- and as he walked, he could feel the impression the show left on the theater; a strange echo of activity that still reverberated within the walls, even when the room was empty.
There was a simple bit of peacefulness to it. Something calming and inspiring. Something that made him deeply happy inside. He wasn’t sure if it was the show itself, or because he found Blaine, or if he had finally reached a tranquility in his life that he had never experienced before, but something had changed within him. He wasn’t the same person he was six months ago.
And he was grateful for that.
Kurt walked across the stage, looking around, taking it all in. He didn’t know what the future would bring him, or what would happen next. He didn’t know how long the show would last or where his career would go next, or even what he was having for dinner that night.
He didn’t care. He only wanted to live in the moment. That moment. And hold onto it.
*
Text From Blaine: Hey, do you mind if I ask you about something?
Your Message: I never mind, Blaine.
Text From Blaine: This might seem weird, or something, but you’ve felt a little different lately. Is something up?
Your Message: Different? How so? Bad different?
Text From Blaine: No, no! Not bad. Just… different different. Idk, quieter.
Your Message: Ah. That. It’s nothing - I’ve just been… reflecting a lot lately.
Text From Blaine: Reflecting? On what?
Your Message: Many things
Your Message: Like, how I could never go back to a time in my life without you in it.
Text From Blaine: ::smileyface::
Text From Blaine: Me, either.
Your Message: I guess I’ve been realizing -- I’ve spent a lot of my life just angry with the world. And lately, I’ve found a sense of serenity I didn’t know was possible. It's been an odd adjustment.
Text From Blaine: Well, I’d love to be in your headspace then.
Text From Blaine: Despite having a boyfriend I absolutely adore and a career I enjoy, I find myself constantly conflicted about the world.
Your Message: You should come over - we could talk about it.
Text From Blaine: If I came over, I doubt we’d do much talking.
Your Message: We could talk after.
Your Message: Besides…
Your message: I miss your body against mine.
Text From Blaine: I’m never going to win any arguments in this relationship, am I?
Text From Blaine: I’ll be over in ten.
XIX.
BroadwayNOW.com Forum
THREAD: THE DARK CLOAK
TrentRhymesWithRent: You guys are totally not going to believe the gossip I just read over on the Sing It On Broadway Insta… they have a bunch of blind items about the show!
Nightbird95: Trent, why do you keep reading that stuff? You know it’s never correct right?
TrentRhymesWithRent: Blind Item #1: Santana Lopez is secretly dating Cooper J Anderson’s younger brother, Blaine.
PorcelainUnicorn: ::crylaugh::
PorcelainUnicorn: That might be the single most funniest thing I’ve ever read.
Nightbird95: Why? You don’t think he could score one of the most beautiful women to ever grace the planet.
PorcelainUnicorn: No. No I do not.
Nightbird95: Well, I’m on the site now… and there are pictures, so clearly it’s true…
*
Your Message: Are you enjoying this?
Your Message: You definitely seem like you’re enjoying this.
Your Message: Oh god, they used actual stills from the show to prove how in love you are.
Text from Blaine: I mean, how do they not know she’s a lesbian?
Text from Blaine: She’s very clearly a lesbian.
Text from Blaine: Her girlfriend is at every show.
Text from Blaine: And I’m pretty sure, despite most of my scenes being with her, she doesn’t even know my name.
Text from Blaine: But yes, I am very much enjoying this. ::winkyface::
*
BroadwayNOW.com Forum
THREAD: THE DARK CLOAK
TrentRhymesWithRent:: Blind Item #2: The theater might be haunted. Sources claim that in the basement, where most of the old clothes are kept, you can hear moaning and rattling when no one is supposed to be there. The ghost especially likes to come out during show times.
TrentRhymesWithRent:: Huh, maybe it’s a friendly ghost that enjoys the shows.
PorcelainUnicorn: Every theater is haunted. ::rollseyes::
Nightbird95: No theater is haunted. Because urban legends are big with theater types and because ghosts aren’t real.
PorcelainUnicorn: Not true! I saw one!
Nightbird95: You did not!
PorcelainUnicorn: There is an old lady ghost in that building. I know because she looked right at me and pointed.
Nightbird95: Are you sure it wasn’t Cooper J Anderson in drag?
PorcelainUnicorn: You’re just jealous because you didn’t see it…
*
Your Message: Oh my god, do you think someone heard us down there?
Text from Blaine: Doubtful. It’s pretty well known as a sex spot. We haven’t been the only ones screwing around in there.
Your Message: Yes, but how many of us are doing it during the show?
Your Message: And you are pretty loud.
Text from Blaine: How am I the loud one when your dick is usually in my mouth?
Your Message: We’re just going to have to be more careful tomorrow.
Text from Blaine: Yes, we wouldn’t want to upset the actual ghost who occupies the theater.
Your Message: She is real, Blaine!
Your Message: And she likes to hang out in the creepy hallway near the restrooms…
*
BroadwayNOW.com Forum
THREAD: THE DARK CLOAK
TrentRhymesWithRent: Blind Item #3: A certain lead actor is currently in talks to revive an old favorite and will be leaving the show at the end of the month.
TrentRhymesWithRent: OH MY GOD! Is Cooper J Anderson leaving??
TrentRhymesWithRent: Say it isn’t so!!!
TrentRhymesWithRent: OH MY GOD! WHAT IF THE REVIVAL IS OKLAHOMA AND COOPER J ANDERSON IS IN OKLAHOMA!!!
*
Your Message: Oh my god, is this for real? This can’t possibly be for real, right?
Your Message: I thought Cooper was in love with this show?
Text from Blaine: I have no idea. He’s said nothing to me.
Text from Blaine: I wouldn’t be surprised, though. If it meant more money for him.
Text from Blaine: It’s not like it would be the first time he screwed people over to further something for himself…
XX.
“I don’t think I can do this.”
“You can definitely do this.”
“I don’t think I want to do this.”
“Blaine…” Kurt stood next to Blaine, clutching his hand as they stared at the front door of the apartment complex. “Have I ever told you about the time I was voted Prom Queen ?”
Blaine gave him a sidelong look. “Of course that was a thing that happened.”
“Not by choice,” Kurt added quickly. “And you know what I did?”
“Wore the shit out of the crown?”
“Of course I did!” Kurt pulled him a little towards the steps. “They even made me a full page in the yearbook. My point is -- that moment was absolutely one of the worst moments of my life, and if I could stand up to the bullies at my high school and actually own it, you can face your brother.”
“Or… we could skip all of this and take a long bubble bath together…”
Kurt gave him a glare. “You said that Cooper wanted you to join him in whatever he’s up to and that you no longer want to be attached to him at the hip. So I’m not letting you walk away without actually doing the one thing you’ve been wanting to do since I’ve met you -- go confront your brother.” Blaine’s shoulders slumped as he stared up at the door. “And then after we can have that bubble bath.”
“Fine,” Blaine huffed as he headed towards the steps.
*
Text from Blaine: Okay, well that is over… I’m headed towards the subway now.
Your Message: How’d it go???
Text from Blaine: Better than I expected, actually!
Text from Blaine: I don’t think he really knew how unhappy I’ve been.
Text from Blaine: And he seemed fine for us to finally part ways.
Text from Blaine: He actually said that maybe we could act like actual brothers and less like ‘business partners’ as he put it.
Your Message: That’s great!
Your Message: I’m so proud of you -- how do you feel?
Text from Blaine: Alright, actually.
Text from Blaine: I think, maybe, I don’t dislike him as much as I sometimes let on.
Your Message: Of course you don’t…
Text from Blaine: There is one thing I’ll need to talk to you about though…
Your Message: ???
Text from Blaine: Cooper leaving the show means that it’s ending.
Text from Blaine: Yeah… I guess between the lagging sales and being critically panned, even April Rhodes seems to know when to pull the plug. And I guess Cooper leaving was the last straw. We’ve got until the end of the month.
Your Message: That’s a bummer ::frownface::
Text from Blaine: Yeah.
Text from Blaine: I think I’m going to need that bubble bath
Your Message: I’ll be naked and sudsy by the time you arrive ::winkyface::
Your Message: I gotta ask, though… What’s the project Cooper’s leaving us for?
Text from Blaine: Something called Dance of the Vampires?
Your Message: Oh no…
XXI.
Kurt sat on his couch, legs curled under him, a glass of white wine in one hand as he read his book. He was so engrossed that it startled him when the front door opened.
“Huh, I’m so surprised to see you alone,” Elliott said as he shrugged off his jacket. “Did you fuck Blaine into unconsciousness again?”
“You’re so hilarious,” Kurt said, giving Elliott a glare as he sipped his wine. “No, Blaine’s not even here.”
“Wow - and here I was going to suggest he start paying for his third of the rent.”
“I will throw this book at you,” Kurt threatened. “Really, though, we agreed that it’s probably healthy for our relationship to spend some time apart every once in a while. Especially since we’ve been working together. Besides - he and his brother are trying some non-professional bonding time. Well, somewhat non-professional. They’re planning a party for the cast after closing night.”
“Oh, yeah,” Elliott sat on the arm of the couch. “I forgot that was this week.”
“You’re still planning on coming, right?”
“I was there on opening night, wasn’t I?”
Kurt shook his head and sipped more of his wine. “I can’t believe it’s ending. Everything feels like it’s been a whirlwind and yet that audition feels like a million years ago.”
Elliott considered. “Well, you did start out a cynical, jaded mess. And I guess now you’re… still a cynical, jaded mess, now only with a boyfriend.”
Kurt carefully marked his page before he threw the book at Elliott.
“So, now that your show is officially dead, have you thought about what’s next?” Elliott asked. “There’s still a place for you at the diner. I know the regulars miss your Abba medley.”
“No, I’m not going back,” Kurt said with a little bit of a grin. “Blaine has this audition lined up for us -- some adaptation of a Virginia Woolf thing that his friends wrote. Should be interesting. And if not, Blaine’s got a couple of other leads.”
“Sounds like you’ve got it all figured out,” Elliott said - throwing the book back towards Kurt.
“I hope so,” Kurt said thoughtfully, taking another long sip of his wine. “This time, I think I really do.”
*
Voice Mail from Dad: Hey kiddo, it’s Dad. Just wanted to let you know that Carole and I just got off the plane and we’re renting a car to get back home. I’m glad we could come out and see the show one last time. Still not sure if I got it - I mean your weird hat just looks like a weird hat with bird feathers but if it means something important to you - I’ll trust ya on that. The important thing is that the show made you happy. And I’m so proud to see you up on that stage. Tell Blaine thank you again for that dinner. He didn’t have to do that but - I respect the gesture. He’s a good catch. I’m glad you two have each other. We’ll call you when we make it back home, though if it keeps raining, we might just get a hotel instead. Love you, kiddo.
XXII.
“It’s crazy that it’s over, isn’t it?” Blaine asked.
It was a bright, sunny spring morning. Kurt held Blaine’s hand as they casually walked down the New York sidewalk - no place to be, nothing to do but enjoy their time together.
“It really doesn’t seem real,” Kurt admitted. “If it was a show night, we’d be headed to dinner soon before getting to the theater and now…”
“And now we can just have dinner,” Blaine grinned. “Oh, that reminds me… Did I tell you that Cooper called me this morning? Apparently, Santana got really drunk last night and called him up at two in the morning, bitching him out over the phone. I guess she was under the impression that this was her shot at a Tony and she’s really pissed about it.”
“Wild,” Kurt said. He stopped for a moment to smell some flowers from a vendor cart.
Blaine shrugged. “She’ll have other chances, I’m sure.”
“She did know that the show really was not great, right? No one was winning a Tony for that mess.”
“It wasn’t that bad,” Blaine argued. Kurt raised his eyebrows. “Okay, it wasn’t great either. Still, it does bum me out that it ended this way, though you’re taking it surprisingly well.”
Kurt swung Blaine’s hand a little as they walked. “I mean, there are definitely parts of it I’m going to miss. But really, I’m grateful for the experience. I mean, I just had my Broadway debut. I sang on a real Broadway stage for the first time. Experienced the rush of it all with the knowledge that it definitely won’t be the last time. It is bittersweet that it’s over. But I’m pretty confident that it’s not like it’s the end of my career.”
Blaine considered. “True.”
“You know, this is going to sound crazy, but I do think I’m going to miss the costumes though.”
“Kurt, you hated that costume.”
“Mine, yes,” Kurt said with a firm nod. “But yours was amazing. Oh, my god! Which reminds me, do you really have a Nightbird costume? Because if so, I think you should wear it… Just so I can get you out of it.”
Blaine stopped in his tracks, not helping himself in a hearty laugh.
“What?” Kurt asked, amused. “Wasn’t it just two days ago you said you were open to role play?”
Blaine began to laugh a little harder. “Nothing, it’s nothing… Just…” he tilted his head, and looked adoringly at Kurt. “I love you.”
Kurt froze, realizing it was the first time Blaine had ever said those words. A warmth spread throughout his whole body. All really was well in his world. He leaned forward, giving Blaine a soft kiss on the lips. “I love you, too.” He squeezed Blaine’s hand before they continued down the sidewalk. “Okay, so I have to tell you my crazy idea for a musical. It’s all about Harry and Meghan…”
*
BroadwayNOW.com Forum
THREAD: THE DARK CLOAK
TrentRhymesWithRent: It is with a heavy heart that I have to announce that I’m closing this thread soon. I guess we’ll have to continue any conversation in the - Former Broadway Shows - thread.
PorcelainUnicorn: Well - in honor of it ending, I suppose I can admit that the show wasn’t all bad. I suppose it did end up growing on me.
Nightbird95: So… maybe not all superhero musicals are a bad idea?
PorcelainUnicorn: Let’s not push it.
Nightbird95: ::smileyface::
Nightbird95: And I guess I can admit that Cooper isn’t the worst Broadway actor.
PorcelainUnicorn: Cooper J Anderson
Nightbird95: Really?
PorcelainUnicorn: What? It’s not like you really know him… oh wait, you said you did. ::winkyface::
PorcelainUnicorn: I think the only thing left before we wrap this up is to get @nightbird95 to explain to us - why the thing about birds?
Nightbird95: Maybe you should explain to us first - why the thing about unicorns?
PorcelainUnicorns: I have a thing for horns.
PorcelainUnicorns: Isn’t that obvious?
PorcelainUnicorns: I mean, I figured you, of all people, would understand that…
Nightbird95: ::bulgingeyes::
TrentRhymesWithRent: I am so confused - did I miss something?
PorcelainUnicorn: Yes.
Nightbird95 No.
PorcelainUnicorn: Don’t worry about it, Trent.