Home for the Holidays Part 2/4
It was mid-afternoon before he actually had the guts to go to the garage. Blaine parked his car across the street from Hummel Tire and Lube and took a deep breath; he really didn't want to do this. He had thought about going to Mrs. Hummel first, but he knew that Kurt's father would at least appreciate it if he had the guts to face him. He didn't recognize the man behind the desk.
"Excuse me, sir. Is Mr. Hummel here?" Blaine asked, not sure what he really wanted the answer to be. He was practically shaking, but he knew he had to call Mr. Schue by eight.
"Nah, he had to go out for a while. Got a problem with your car, kid?"
"No, never mind. Thank you," Blaine turned quickly and headed for the door, this was a bad idea and it wasn't going to work.
He had almost made it through the door when a familiar voice stopped him.
"Dude, what are you doing here?"
Before he could think about it he turned around and came face to face with Finn Hudson for the first time in months.
"Shit man, what happened to your face?" Finn looked angry and Blaine wondered if he should try to make a run for it. He couldn't really get any words out.
"Do Puck and I need to go over to McKinley and remind some people how to behave? I know you're a senior, but you're still kind of tiny and nobody should be picking on you," Finn said. It took Blaine another minute before he finally registered that Finn was angry for him, not at him.
"It's not that, can we maybe talk somewhere else?" There were several people in the waiting room and all of them were staring at him.
"Yeah, come on. We can use Burt's office," Finn said and Blaine followed him back to the small room filled with a desk, filing cabinets, and a rather old looking computer.
"Sit down, you don't look too good," Finn said as he pulled two bottles of water out of the mini-fridge in the corner and handed one of them to Blaine.
"I wasn't sure you or Burt wouldn't want to kick my ass as soon as I showed up. Not that I don't deserve it," he said. He still couldn't forgive himself for hurting Kurt, even if it was for the best.
Finn nodded, "I haven't actually decided yet, but it looks like someone beat me to it. You're here for a reason, start talking."
"Fair enough. The short version is that my dad kicked me out. Mr. Schue found me sleeping in my car this morning and gave me the day to figure things out. If I can't find somewhere to stay CPS will take over," Blaine explained.
It looked like Finn was thinking and then his eyes narrowed, "So, your face? Your dad did that?"
Blaine just nodded, and then jumped about two feet out of his chair when Finn slammed his fist down on the desk.
"Shit! I'm sorry. That's so wrong though, Burt is going to flip," Finn said.
"I'm probably about the last person he wants to deal with right now," Blaine pointed out.
Finn shrugged and looked at him closely like he was trying to figure something out, "Kurt said he didn't even know why you broke up with him. Do you know what I think?"
Blaine looked up at him and waited.
"I think you had some stupid idea about being all noble letting him go. Which by the way makes you a total idiot." Finn said.
Blaine stared at him, "How..?"
"How do I know? Well, for one thing your eyes have barely left the picture of Kurt on Burt's desk. Artie told me last week that you haven't even smiled at another guy. Tina said you ignore the texts from that Warbler guy who still wants to get in your pants. That gives me a pretty good idea that you are still in love with my brother. That leaves me trying to figure out why you would dump him, and I can't really think of another reason," Finn explained looking proud of what he'd figured out.
Blaine wanted to deny it, but he couldn't. Finn might not be great at academics, but sometimes he could really read people. "It doesn't matter, he has options now. He doesn't have to settle for silly Skype dates with a boyfriend who is still in high school."
"Maybe he wants that, you didn't really give him the choice," Finn said.
"It doesn't matter. I'm living in my car. Your pointless attempts at fixing my love life will have to wait, " Blaine said trying not to get too frustrated with Finn. He knew the taller man meant well.
"That's perfect! You can come and stay with us and then talk to Kurt when he comes home for break!" Finn seemed to think it was all that simple, but Blaine wasn't even sure he had the courage to see Kurt again. He couldn't even think about asking Kurt to take him back after what he'd done.
"I don't think that's going to work Finn. Your parents aren't going to let me stay, I just have to figure this out on my own," Blaine said getting up to leave.
"You don't get it. You don't have to do this by yourself. We're all still part of a team, even if I've graduated. Hell, Mr. Schue already took a risk by giving you time. You know he's supposed to report this stuff. At least come home with me and eat dinner, you probably haven't eaten all day. We'll talk to mom and Burt," Finn said. Blaine didn't really want to argue, he was hungry and tired and more than a little sure Finn might be right about him being an idiot.
"Okay, I'd be stupid to turn down a free meal at this point," Blaine admitted, he looked up at Finn, "More of an idiot than I already am."
"True facts, dude. But you are right, let's deal with one thing at a time. First we find you a place to stay, then you can clean up the other mess," Finn said, opening the door to Burt's office and heading for his pick-up.
*KB*
Kurt needed a rest. Luckily, there was less than a week left of school before he could go home to Lima for break. As he sat in his Playwriting class he realized that Mark might not be in any of his classes next semester so when the professor dismissed them he stopped the other man.
"I was just going to get some coffee before my next class, would you like to come with me? My treat," Kurt said and flashed what he hoped was a flirtatious smile. He really wasn't used to being the one making a move.
Mark smiled, "Yeah, sure. I don't have another class until this afternoon. Lead the way."
The wind was starting to pick up as Kurt took them past Starbucks and to a smaller independent place he had found the first week he and Rachel had gone exploring. They made their way up to the counter and Kurt waved to Melissa, a girl from his English Lit class who was working behind the counter.
He ordered his latte and turned to Mark, "What can I get you?"
"Just a medium drip for me," Mark said. Kurt knew it was ridiculous to be bothered by this, it wasn’t like it was so strange to order a regular coffee. It didn’t mean anything. Still, he could do without the reminder. He quickly shrugged it off and found them a table near the window.They chatted for a while about classes and the latest rounds of the X Factor until their drinks were almost empty and things got a little more personal.
"So, how do you feel about going back to Ohio?" Mark asked pushing his thick framed glasses up on his nose.
"I'm ready, I think. I'm not accustomed to being away from my dad like this. I know my stepmother is taking care of him and making him eat right, but it's not the same as seeing it for myself," Kurt answered honestly, "How about you?"
"I'd rather not go home to be honest. I will because my grandmother isn't doing really well, but my dad just makes it so difficult," Mark said.
"He doesn't accept you?" Kurt twisted the napkin in front of him in his hands, he knew he was lucky.
"He won't come out and say anything, he just won't talk about it other than to forbid me from telling the extended family," Mark said.
"
Well, why don't we exchange numbers and if it gets to be too much you can call me and vent," Kurt said, trying not to show his nervousness at actually asking for Mark's phone number.
"On one condition," Mark said his cheeks pink, "when we both get back to the city I can call you and take you to dinner."
Kurt blushed as well and nodded, "I'd like that."
As it turned out that was the only good part of his day. It started as he was leaving his afternoon class and didn't move fast enough to avoid a taxi splattering mud all over his Burberry coat. As his day went by he was beginning to think some non-existent higher power was determined to throw his ex-boyfriend in his face.
First, there was the busker on the corner singing Teenage Dream. Kurt had waved a ten in front of the guy's face and told him he could have it if he never sang that song again.
Later he stumbled past the grand opening of a new pet store in his neighborhood, complete with a person in a canary costume. A fucking giant yellow bird. He had to do something to get his mind off Blaine.
He stopped at the University Library to get an article for class and when he checked his email there was a notice from the theater department announcing West Side Story as the spring musical.
When he finally dragged himself home he discovered that Rachel had raided his closet without permission and was wearing the blue Hermes scarf that Blaine had given him last Christmas because "it was almost as beautiful as his eyes." Giving her a bitch face so fierce she actually jumped backwards he stormed into his room and slammed the door. He was really sick of thinking about Blaine Anderson.
**KB**
Blaine followed Finn back to the Hummel-Hudson house and parked across the street. Other than the snow it looked exactly the same as the last time he’d been there. He couldn't keep his eyes from drifting to the second window on the left, which he knew was Kurt's bedroom.
Finn led him in through the side door and nodded to the driveway, "Looks like everyone's home. Try not to freak out too much. If Burt was actually capable of murder I wouldn't have made it past the first week we all lived together."
Blaine made a mental note to ask exactly what he meant by that later and tightly wrapped his hand around the strap of his
backpack. He could do this. In fact, compared to the possibility of facing Kurt anytime soon this was the easy part.
He wasn't quite sure how to start, but luckily Finn took care of that.
"Mom? Burt? Can you come into the living room? We need to talk to you," Finn said, throwing himself across the sofa.
Blaine stood in the middle of the room too nervous to sit as he heard the adults coming towards the living room.
"No need to yell, Finn. What do you mean "we"?" Carole said, sounding worried. She stopped when she came though the doorway and saw Blaine standing there, Burt stood behind her and crossed his arms.
"He followed me home, mom. Can I keep him?" Finn asked with a snicker.
"Not helping," hissed Blaine as he tried to read the expressions on the Hummels' faces.
It was then that Carole got past the shock of Blaine being there. She registered the bruises on his face and went into mother mode.
"Oh, honey! What happened?" She asked. It looked like she was going to hug him, but she stopped and patted his shoulder instead. Blaine could have really used a motherly hug just then, but it was kind of hard for everyone to figure out how to act.
"I got into an argument, and things got out of control," Blaine said.
Finn snorted, "His father hit him and then threw him out."
"Finn!" Blaine had hoped to work up to it. Though on the plus side Kurt's dad didn't look quite as angry as he had a few minutes ago.
"Just saving us all some time man," Finn said with a shrug.
"I know I don't have a right to ask for anything from your family, but I don't know where else to go and I'm scared. Mr. Schue caught me sleeping in my car last night. If I can't find a safe place to stay, one that CPS will approve, they'll put me in foster care. That probably means some kind of group home," Blaine explained.
"Well," Carole said with a sigh, "at least this one isn't pregnant."
Finn made a face, but seemed to know better than to say anything.
Burt still hadn't said a word and Blaine kind of wished he'd yell or threaten him or something, anything was better than the silence.
Finally he spoke, "Carole, why don't you go start dinner. Finn can help you. Blaine and I are going to talk man to man."
She squeezed Blaine's shoulder again before heading for the kitchen, but not before stopping to whisper something in her husband's ear. Burt rolled his eyes and said "I won't" before waiting for Finn to follow his mother out of the room.
"Sit down, kid. My wife seems to think I'm going to be hard on you, but I think you've probably taken enough crap in the last couple days. She also says this is my call. So, hopefully we can do this the easy way; I'm going to ask you some questions and you are going to answer honestly. If I think you're lying we're done and you can take your chances with whatever Schuester can come up with. Got it?"
"Yes, sir. Thank you," Blaine said as he dropped into the armchair and rested his elbows on his knees and his head in his hands.
"Your father hit you?" he asked, and Blaine caught the same protective look Finn had worn earlier.
"Yes, sir," Blaine said, hoping he wasn't going to have to repeat this again to a social worker in the morning.
"My first instinct is to drive to Westerville and see if he has the guts to take on a grown man instead of smacking his kid around,"
Burt said, "But that won't really solve anything will it?"
Blaine bit his slip to keep from grinning, but the corners of his mouth turned up just the same. "I appreciate the thought sir, but he'd probably press charges. I'd be worried about your heart anyway."
The other man was looking at Blaine like he'd said something particularly interesting and he wasn't sure why. Kurt would be devastated if his dad had even the tiniest cardiac episode.
"And you can't go home? What does your mother think of all this?"
"He told me I had fifteen minutes to pack and get out of his house. I'll spare you the details of the things he called us. My mother will never cross him, he could cut off her platinum card," Blaine said bitterly. He had mostly tried to stay out of his parents' way since he went to Dalton. He wasn't sure his mother even knew he had transferred to another school.
"Called us? What do you mean us?" Burt asked.
Blaine really wished he hadn't let that slip, "Um, he knows how to push my buttons. He started talking about Kurt. That's when things kind of got out of control."
Burt nodded, his jaw clenched. "When was the last time you talked to my son?"
"The night I broke up with him. I didn't want to hurt him like that, but I thought it was for the best," Blaine said. He let his eyes wander until they stopped on a framed picture of Kurt and Finn from their parents' wedding, Kurt looked so happy despite everything else that was happening when they first met.
"What are your plans when you finish McKinley?"
"I've applied to NYADA and NYU, plus OSU and Kent just in case. That was one of the things my father wasn't happy about. My college money is a family trust though, my father can't keep me from it once I turn 18," Blaine explained.
He watched as Burt slid back further in his chair, the interrogation seemingly over, "You can stay here. There was one more question I was going to ask, but I think I already know the answer."
Blaine felt himself sag with relief, "Thank you sir. I'll get a job and pay my own expenses as much as I can. I need to call Mr. Schue and let him know I'm okay. He said Ms. Pillsbury can help with the paperwork."
Burt nodded, "I know the garage isn't really your thing, but I've got a buddy that owns a sandwich shop and he could use an employee that actually has manners."
He was trying really hard not to cry, he'd been so scared and now things were going to be okay and he really didn't deserve all this from Kurt's family. "Thank you doesn't quite cover it," he said.
"Graduate, get into school, and find somewhere to be happy. That's thanks enough," Burt said.
Blaine nodded.
"One more thing," Burt said, "Kurt will be back from New York in a few days. We both know he's going to throw a fit at first but I'm hoping when he calms down he'll understand. Kurt will always come first in my house, and I know you get that, but he only has to be at home for two weeks between now and when you graduate. We're not going to put you out because he can't act like an adult for a few days."
"I hope that won't be a problem. I hope he'll listen to what I have to say to him, but if not I will stay out of his way. I'd never want him to be uncomfortable at home, I know what that's like," he said.
"Okay kid, why don't you call Schuester and then Finn can help you bring your things in from the car. The guest room is now your room, so move things around if you need to. I'm guessing you're exhausted, so get some sleep and we'll talk more at dinner tomorrow."
"Yeah, it's been a long day," Blaine said. He quickly called Mr. Schue who was relieved to hear he'd be staying at the Hummel house. It didn't take long for them to bring in his stuff. He'd only managed to grab a few bags of clothes, his computer, a few photos and his guitar. He went into the kitchen to get a glass of water and found Carole sitting at the table reading a magazine. Before he could say anything she got to her feet and pulled him into a hug.
"It's going to be okay, sweetie. I made Finn tell me everything, and whether you end up with Kurt or not you have a home here for as long as you need it," she said.
It was exactly the motherly hug he had needed so badly, earlier and that combined with the fatigue and relief was enough to make him let go completely. He wrapped his arms around Carole and sobbed into her shoulder while she patted his hair in a way his own mother could never be bothered to do. He'd lost his parents, his house, and realized how badly he had messed up with Kurt. He should be at rock bottom, but these amazing people were taking him in and giving him another chance. He just hoped Kurt could give him another chance too.
*KB*
Kurt was settled at the tiny kitchen table with his English Lit notes sprawled out in front of him trying to finish studying for his final the next day. His phone rang and he was surprised to see "Dad" on the caller ID, it was nearly ten, much later than he would normally call.
"Dad? Is everything okay?" Kurt asked, flipping through his notebook to find more on the symbolism in a certain passage.
"Carole, Finn, and I are fine. How are you?"
Kurt leaned back and closed his notebook with a huff, he needed to get this stuff down. "I'm fine, just studying for my exam tomorrow. Can I call you some other time? I'm kind of busy," he said.
"Sorry kiddo, I think I better tell you now," his dad said, and Kurt was immediately suspicious.
"Tell me what? You said you were all fine," he replied.
"Well, here's the thing. Blaine came to the garage today. He's having some trouble and he needs somewhere to stay for a while," Burt said.
"What does that have to do with us?" Kurt asked, his tone sharp. He knew what was coming, but that didn't mean he was going to let his dad off easy.
"Kurt, Blaine is going to be staying with us for a while," Burt said, his voice gentle.
"WHAT? DAD! NO!" Kurt stood up from the table, his notes forgotten as he started to pace the three steps back and forth across the kitchen.
"Kurt, calm down. It's up to him to tell you the whole story, but this isn't up for discussion. I know that it might be a little uncomfortable while you are home, but this is how it has to be," his father explained.
"Up to him? No, dad. You need to tell me why on earth you would think it was okay to let my ex-boyfriend, the one that dumped me and broke my heart wihout any kind of explanation, live in our fucking house!"
"Kurt Hummel you'll watch that mouth when you are talking to me. I'm telling you now so you have time to think about this before you get home, I'm not asking your permission. I need you to trust me that this is the right thing to do. I love you and you will always come first, but I can't turn him away."
Kurt finally stopped pacing and stared at his phone, with the first flash of anger out of the way he was left with worry, "Dad, of course I trust you. You're the best man I know, but I don't know if I can do this."
"I do. I know you can. I think the two of you need to talk when you get home, but that's a decision you'll have to make for yourself. Right now all I'm asking is for you to share space with him," Burt said.
Kurt sighed and ran a hand through his hair, "Okay, I'll try. I really should get back to studying."
"That's my boy. I love you kiddo, I'll see you at the airport," his dad said.
"I love you too dad, see you then," Kurt said, and pressed the end button on his phone. So much for holiday cheer.
The rest of Kurt's week passed in a blur of exams and final projects. The only benefit of being completely overwhelmed by schoolwork was that he didn't have much time to think about his ex-boyfriend living in his house. It wasn't until he was on the plane back to Ohio that he had time to sort out his thoughts.
He had wanted to talk about it with Rachel, but decided she did not deserve input on his relationships after seeing her kiss Jesse St. James one day as he was coming out of class. She was definitely on best friend probation until she decided to be honest about her own bad decisions. He had, however, told her about the living arrangements and extracted a promise that Blaine could stay with her for the first night back to give Kurt a chance to catch up with his family. He really didn't want to share everything that had gone on in his life with his ex.
By the time they'd been in the air for a while Kurt could admit that if his father had allowed this he must have thought it was necessary. Still, he was angry. Blaine had decided that he didn't want to be a part of Kurt's life, and that should be that. He didn't get to show up when he got annoyed at his parents' indifference. Yes, it was unfortunate, but why couldn't Blaine just man up and deal with it for a few months until graduation.
Of course, he had never actually met Blaine's parents. Kurt supposed that maybe that should have given him a clue that the other boy wasn't as invested in their relationship as he had been. Still, it wasn't exactly a secret that Blaine envied the good relationship Kurt has with his family. Now Blaine was able to be a part of that and he didn't even have to pretend to be in love with Kurt anymore to do it.There was a part of him that knew he wasn't really being fair, he knew that Blaine had loved him once. Kurt had just never understood why Blaine had stopped loving him.
By the time the plane touched down in Ohio Kurt had a plan. He had to protect himself; he would be humiliated if Blaine could tell he still had feelings for him. He'd have to be cold at first, but if Blaine didn't push him then he could just treat him like an exchange student who was staying with them or something. It wasn't his job to make this easy on Blaine.
Despite their disagreement he couldn't help but throw himself into his dad's arms when he spotted him at baggage check. He'd never gone so long without seeing his dad and he missed him a lot.
"Kiddo, it's good to have you home," Burt said wrapping an arm around Kurt's shoulders.
"Thanks dad, I missed you. Finn and Carole too. I have so much to tell you," Kurt said yanking a suitcase that was nearly as big as he was off the carousel.
His dad smiled and took the handle of that bag while they waited for the other bags they knew were coming. Before long Kurt tugged one more suitcase off the track and shouldered a garment bag before they made their way to the car.
The way home was filled with Burt catching Kurt up on all the things that had been happening at the shop and around town since he'd been away. Kurt didn't want to repeat himself so he was waiting to talk until the whole family was together. He did notice that his father was carefully avoiding mentioning Blaine and he found he appreciated it more than he was annoyed by it.
When they finally arrived at home Kurt jumped out of the car and enthusiastically went to greet Carole and Finn. Tomorrow he was going to spend the night at Mercedes' house to catch up with her and Tina but tonight was all about his family.
It wasn't until all of his bags had been brought in and the Hudson Hummels were seated around the kitchen table with coffee and some of Carole's ginger snaps that Blaine made a shy appearance in the doorway.
Carole looked up at him and smiled, "I have a fresh batch of cookies. Would you like one?"
Before Blaine could answer Kurt cut him off, "Rachel is expecting you for the night. I'd like a chance to catch up with the people who care about me."
He was rather satisfied at the way his ex seemed to freeze and the small shake in his hands.
"She," Kurt said so the emphasis on that part couldn't be ignored, "would love to see you."
Kurt knew that over the years his father had learned to pick his battles, and he was hoping this was one he'd let go.
"Okay. Just for one night so everyone can adjust. You need to know that Carole and I take being Blaine's foster parents very seriously so everyone is just going to have to show a little maturity," Burt said.
"Kurt." It seemed like Blaine was going to say something and then changed his mind, "Okay, let me grab some stuff and I'll be out of your way."
"Thank you," Kurt said quietly, he would try to be civil if only for his father.
**KB**
Blaine sighed as he tossed some sweats and a change of clothes into his backpack. It wasn't so much that he minded spending time with Rachel; they had become pretty good friends during her senior year. He was also well aware that he was the one who had ended their relationship and he deserved whatever Kurt could throw at him. Sure, he'd been trying to do the right thing, but it had still hurt Kurt. He knew Kurt better than most people, including how vicious he could be when he was feeling afraid or vulnerable.
He checked the mirror and forced a smile; at least the bruise was gone. He didn't really want Rachel and her dads to see that. Blaine knew that Kurt didn't know the whole story of how he ended up at the Hummels' and that made the way Kurt was acting hurt a little less. He would have to tell him soon, but tonight was clearly not the time.
He quietly let himself out of the house and drove over the Berry's. As soon as he knocked on the door he barely saw the tiny pink blur that was Rachel before it collided with him.
"Blaine! I'm so glad you came. Are you okay? Was Kurt mean to you? What happened with your family? How is New Directions? Suffering without my leadership I'm sure. "
Blaine couldn't really get a word in, but her monologue was stopped when a voice interrupted from inside the house, "Rachel, darling. Let the poor boy in the house. You have all evening to catch up."
Blaine just smiled and shook his head; it was actually pretty comforting that New York hadn't changed Rachel very much. Rachel led him down the entrance way into the living room where her dads were watching the news.
"Blaine! It's nice to see you," said Leroy Berry, "Are you doing okay?"
"Yes sir, I was very lucky that Burt and Carole let me stay with them," Blaine answered. The older man nodded, "Yes, they are good people. I wish we could have done more to help."
"I know sir, if things don't thaw out a little there I may be visiting your daughter quite a bit while she's on break," Blaine said.
"I hope they do, but you are always welcome here. I won't keep you, I know Rachel is dying to get you up to her room and interrogate you on all things New Directions," Leroy said.
"Yes sir. Thank you, I know better than to keep her waiting," he said before allowing Rachel to push him up the stairs.
They had just settled on Rachel's still very pink and ruffled bed when she got right to the point, "Blaine you are very important to me and we mix well vocally, but Kurt is my best friend and I will not betray him."
"Rachel, I would never ask you to do that. If it's not too much can you tell me if he's happy? If he's seeing anyone?" He'd broken both their hearts so that Kurt could be happy, he at least had to know if he was.
"I think he's happy. He doesn't have to be afraid all the time. He's been out on a lot of dates, " Rachel said with a sad smile. Blaine's heart sunk. Of course that was what he'd wanted for Kurt, but the reality of it made him feel a little sick. He felt terrible, but he'd hoped that Kurt might still miss him just a little bit.
"That's good. Yeah, it's good. He deserves that," Blaine said. He hadn't done a very good job keeping his emotions in check.
Rachel immediately softened and leaned her head on his shoulder, "I didn't say he'd been on a lot of second dates. In fact, he hasn't spent the night outside of our apartment or had anyone stay over at ours. Does it make you feel better or worse that there isn't anyone special?"
"I don't even know anymore. If he's not better off then I may have made the biggest mistake of my life," Blaine said, eyes staring vacantly at the wall.
Rachel wrapped her arms around him, "I haven't told anyone else this, but I think you need to hear that I've been seeing Jesse. Yes, he hurt me really badly. But I love him and we fit together in a way that nobody else does for me. He's really trying to make this work and I want to give him the chance."
"Later on you are going to give me all the details on that, but I see what you are saying. Do you think I still have a chance?" His head had been buried in her shoulder, but now he was looking at her. He knew the expression on his face probably looked ridiculous, but if it would convince her he honestly wanted another chance it couldn't hurt.
"I think you might," she said biting her lip, "but if goes back to New York it will be too late."
"Thanks Rachel, I have a lot to think about. So, tell me about Jesse," he said. They talked another several hours about her classes, New Directions, and the many frustrating auditions she had been on since moving to the city. He was happy just to let Rachel be Rachel, especially since he didn't have to do much talking herself. It was nice to have his friend back.
**KB**
Kurt made sure he was out of the house the next day before Blaine got back from Rachel's. He knew he couldn't keep this up his whole vacation, and he knew he should be more mature about it. He just wasn't ready. He couldn't really escape though; Mercedes and Tina had barely taken the nail polish out before the questions started. He considered avoiding the subject entirely, but he gave up on that idea quickly. Not only was that unlikely to work with Mercedes, but he really needed to talk to somebody about everything.
"So what's the deal, baby?" Just as he expected Mercedes had her "don't even think about lying" look ready.
"He's living in my house and I don't have a choice about it," Kurt said.
"Why isn't he living at home?" Mercedes asked.
"I don't know, my dad said it's up to Blaine to tell me," Kurt replied, "We haven't said two words to each other since he dumped me."
"I can't believe your dad is letting him ignore you like that!" Tina said, "He won't really tell anyone at school what happened either, but I think Mr. Schue knows."
Kurt went to work removing the black polish she had on and kept his eyes on her fingers, "It's more the other way around, at least since I've been home. I may have immediately shipped him off to Rachel's and left before he got back."
"Oh, honey," Mercedes said, "you do realize you are going to have to talk to him. Nothing at all? Not a single text or an email all semester?"
"No, and it's for the best. Blaine wanted to be free to mess around with Warblers or whatever. He never actually gave me a real reason, but there was no point in drawing it out. He's hard enough to get over as it is," Kurt admitted.
"Kurt," Tina said, "I don't think that was it. He's been spending a lot of time with Artie and I and he hasn't even mentioned another guy. I heard him ask that Sebastian guy to leave him alone at Sectionals."
Kurt tried to focus intently on applying the purple glitter polish to Tina's nails, but that was a lot to take in. He'd been haunted, especially early on, by images of Blaine out on date after date or doing worse with other guys. It had a lot to do with why he'd been on so many dates himself. Of course he'd thought that at least he could claim moral superiority for not throwing himself around. The fact that Blaine has been alone this whole time was frankly messing with his head.
Mercedes swatted his hands away and took over Tina's manicure, "Now you look even more like someone has run over your dog, what are you thinking?"
"If he didn't want someone else, then what did I do wrong that he didn't want me?" This is what has been on the edge of his mind for months. Why wasn't he good enough? Why did Blaine stop loving him?
"Screw that, you are fabulous and if he forgot that then you don't need him," Mercedes said and he managed a small smile.
"Kurt, I think you need to talk to him. I think there is something off about this. He seemed sad a lot, even before he moved out. I helped proofread his application essays, Blaine applied to NYADA and NYU. When I asked why he wasn't applying to Oberlin he said it had to be New York," Tina said.
"Okay, none of this makes any sense," Kurt said.
Kurt made sure that he got back from Mercedes house early. It was the Saturday before Christmas and this was the day he always spent with Finn. It had started the first Christmas their parents were married. Finn had needed help with his Christmas shopping and since that was Kurt's area of expertise they had decided to do it together. They would eat lunch, do their shopping, and then go see the lamest holiday movie playing at the AMC. This was only the third year, but it had become their holiday tradition. Finn had even sent him a list of the upcoming releases before they left New York so they could decide on one together.
He let himself in the house and dropped his bag by the door. It was just about time for them to leave, but the house was silent. He wouldn't be surprised if Finn hadn't gotten up yet. He didn't work at the garage on Saturdays. When he got up to Finn's room, however, his stepbrother wasn't anywhere to be found so he he sent a quick text.
TO FINN:
Where are you? It's almost time for lunch. I'll even let you pick.
TO KURT:
Sorry dude. Blaine and I went for a late breakfast. Catch you later.
Well, that was just great. Blaine and Finn went for breakfast.
Somehow, Blaine had managed to interfere with one of the only traditions he and Finn had as a new family. Of course Finn was out with Blaine. Hell, he was probably introducing him as his brother by now. It was just perfect wasn't it? Blaine was small enough Finn could feel big protecting him, he liked football, and he could pass for straight. Everything Finn could want in a brother. Why would he want to go shopping with Kurt when he could get greasy eggs and bacon with Blaine?
Kurt sat on the couch and watched a marathon of Tabitha's Salon Takeover. Strangely, watching Tabitha kick ass did nothing to quell his anger. Every time he thought about his plans for today being derailed by his ex he got angrier and angrier. It took about two hours before Finn and Blaine walked in the door and Kurt exploded.
"How dare you! Why can't you just stay out of my life? I get that your family doesn't treat you like the center of the universe but you can't. have. mine!" Kurt was flat out screaming by the end of it, he could feel the blood rushing to his face and his fists were clenched at his side.
He took a breath and was ready to let loose with another round when he felt strong arms wrapping around his middle. It was Finn, "That's it, you're done. Would you look at him? Why are you being such a bitch?"
He couldn't actually answer because Finn had lifted him over his shoulder and was carrying him out of the room. When he actually looked back at Blaine he realized the other boy was curled up in a ball, tears obviously running down his face. After a few more seconds Finn plunked him down on his bed.
"What the hell is wrong with you?" Finn asked, slamming the bedroom door.
Kurt was seriously going to punch somebody, manicure be damned. "Me? I'm not the one who blew off our shopping trip to spend the day with your ex. I should point out that I could have spent the day with any one of your oh-so-lovely exes, but I came home because I thought we had a tradition!"
"Blaine was having a bad day. I figured it would be okay if we started our day a little later. Why are you being so selfish? You're a better person than this Kurt, I know you are," Finn said.
That hurt. He knew that sometimes he could be self-centered and a little bitchy, but he really thought he was becoming a better person.
"I just wish someone would actually acknowledge how hard this is for me," he said, flopping back on his bed.
"See that's what I mean. Hard for you? Which part was hard for you, being smacked around by your father or being thrown out of your house with 15 minutes to pack? Was it the night you spent in your car because you had nowhere else to go? Or was it this morning when you found out that you are an uncle but will probably never see the kid? Oh, wait that wasn't you that was Blaine,"
Finn said, shaking his head.
Kurt sat back up, "What?"
"You heard me. Someone had to give you a reality check," Fin said.
Blaine's father had hit him. Andrea had a baby and they wouldn't let Blaine visit? Kurt felt sick. He'd never considered what had actually happened, because he'd been too busy casting Blaine as the villain in The Kurt Hummel Story.
"Why didn't anyone tell me?" He asked, his voice small.
"You didn't really give anyone a chance, dude," Finn replied, "The question now is what you are going to do now that you know. You can't possibly hate him this much."
Kurt ran a hand through his hair, "I don't hate him at all, that's the problem."
"So what are you going to do?"
Kurt stood up and straightened his bow tie, "I'm going downstairs to apologize and talk to him if he'll let me."
"He will. I'm sure of it," Finn said as Kurt walked out the door to talk to Blaine for the first time in nearly six months.
"Excuse me, sir. Is Mr. Hummel here?" Blaine asked, not sure what he really wanted the answer to be. He was practically shaking, but he knew he had to call Mr. Schue by eight.
"Nah, he had to go out for a while. Got a problem with your car, kid?"
"No, never mind. Thank you," Blaine turned quickly and headed for the door, this was a bad idea and it wasn't going to work.
He had almost made it through the door when a familiar voice stopped him.
"Dude, what are you doing here?"
Before he could think about it he turned around and came face to face with Finn Hudson for the first time in months.
"Shit man, what happened to your face?" Finn looked angry and Blaine wondered if he should try to make a run for it. He couldn't really get any words out.
"Do Puck and I need to go over to McKinley and remind some people how to behave? I know you're a senior, but you're still kind of tiny and nobody should be picking on you," Finn said. It took Blaine another minute before he finally registered that Finn was angry for him, not at him.
"It's not that, can we maybe talk somewhere else?" There were several people in the waiting room and all of them were staring at him.
"Yeah, come on. We can use Burt's office," Finn said and Blaine followed him back to the small room filled with a desk, filing cabinets, and a rather old looking computer.
"Sit down, you don't look too good," Finn said as he pulled two bottles of water out of the mini-fridge in the corner and handed one of them to Blaine.
"I wasn't sure you or Burt wouldn't want to kick my ass as soon as I showed up. Not that I don't deserve it," he said. He still couldn't forgive himself for hurting Kurt, even if it was for the best.
Finn nodded, "I haven't actually decided yet, but it looks like someone beat me to it. You're here for a reason, start talking."
"Fair enough. The short version is that my dad kicked me out. Mr. Schue found me sleeping in my car this morning and gave me the day to figure things out. If I can't find somewhere to stay CPS will take over," Blaine explained.
It looked like Finn was thinking and then his eyes narrowed, "So, your face? Your dad did that?"
Blaine just nodded, and then jumped about two feet out of his chair when Finn slammed his fist down on the desk.
"Shit! I'm sorry. That's so wrong though, Burt is going to flip," Finn said.
"I'm probably about the last person he wants to deal with right now," Blaine pointed out.
Finn shrugged and looked at him closely like he was trying to figure something out, "Kurt said he didn't even know why you broke up with him. Do you know what I think?"
Blaine looked up at him and waited.
"I think you had some stupid idea about being all noble letting him go. Which by the way makes you a total idiot." Finn said.
Blaine stared at him, "How..?"
"How do I know? Well, for one thing your eyes have barely left the picture of Kurt on Burt's desk. Artie told me last week that you haven't even smiled at another guy. Tina said you ignore the texts from that Warbler guy who still wants to get in your pants. That gives me a pretty good idea that you are still in love with my brother. That leaves me trying to figure out why you would dump him, and I can't really think of another reason," Finn explained looking proud of what he'd figured out.
Blaine wanted to deny it, but he couldn't. Finn might not be great at academics, but sometimes he could really read people. "It doesn't matter, he has options now. He doesn't have to settle for silly Skype dates with a boyfriend who is still in high school."
"Maybe he wants that, you didn't really give him the choice," Finn said.
"It doesn't matter. I'm living in my car. Your pointless attempts at fixing my love life will have to wait, " Blaine said trying not to get too frustrated with Finn. He knew the taller man meant well.
"That's perfect! You can come and stay with us and then talk to Kurt when he comes home for break!" Finn seemed to think it was all that simple, but Blaine wasn't even sure he had the courage to see Kurt again. He couldn't even think about asking Kurt to take him back after what he'd done.
"I don't think that's going to work Finn. Your parents aren't going to let me stay, I just have to figure this out on my own," Blaine said getting up to leave.
"You don't get it. You don't have to do this by yourself. We're all still part of a team, even if I've graduated. Hell, Mr. Schue already took a risk by giving you time. You know he's supposed to report this stuff. At least come home with me and eat dinner, you probably haven't eaten all day. We'll talk to mom and Burt," Finn said. Blaine didn't really want to argue, he was hungry and tired and more than a little sure Finn might be right about him being an idiot.
"Okay, I'd be stupid to turn down a free meal at this point," Blaine admitted, he looked up at Finn, "More of an idiot than I already am."
"True facts, dude. But you are right, let's deal with one thing at a time. First we find you a place to stay, then you can clean up the other mess," Finn said, opening the door to Burt's office and heading for his pick-up.
*KB*
Kurt needed a rest. Luckily, there was less than a week left of school before he could go home to Lima for break. As he sat in his Playwriting class he realized that Mark might not be in any of his classes next semester so when the professor dismissed them he stopped the other man.
"I was just going to get some coffee before my next class, would you like to come with me? My treat," Kurt said and flashed what he hoped was a flirtatious smile. He really wasn't used to being the one making a move.
Mark smiled, "Yeah, sure. I don't have another class until this afternoon. Lead the way."
The wind was starting to pick up as Kurt took them past Starbucks and to a smaller independent place he had found the first week he and Rachel had gone exploring. They made their way up to the counter and Kurt waved to Melissa, a girl from his English Lit class who was working behind the counter.
He ordered his latte and turned to Mark, "What can I get you?"
"Just a medium drip for me," Mark said. Kurt knew it was ridiculous to be bothered by this, it wasn’t like it was so strange to order a regular coffee. It didn’t mean anything. Still, he could do without the reminder. He quickly shrugged it off and found them a table near the window.They chatted for a while about classes and the latest rounds of the X Factor until their drinks were almost empty and things got a little more personal.
"So, how do you feel about going back to Ohio?" Mark asked pushing his thick framed glasses up on his nose.
"I'm ready, I think. I'm not accustomed to being away from my dad like this. I know my stepmother is taking care of him and making him eat right, but it's not the same as seeing it for myself," Kurt answered honestly, "How about you?"
"I'd rather not go home to be honest. I will because my grandmother isn't doing really well, but my dad just makes it so difficult," Mark said.
"He doesn't accept you?" Kurt twisted the napkin in front of him in his hands, he knew he was lucky.
"He won't come out and say anything, he just won't talk about it other than to forbid me from telling the extended family," Mark said.
"
Well, why don't we exchange numbers and if it gets to be too much you can call me and vent," Kurt said, trying not to show his nervousness at actually asking for Mark's phone number.
"On one condition," Mark said his cheeks pink, "when we both get back to the city I can call you and take you to dinner."
Kurt blushed as well and nodded, "I'd like that."
As it turned out that was the only good part of his day. It started as he was leaving his afternoon class and didn't move fast enough to avoid a taxi splattering mud all over his Burberry coat. As his day went by he was beginning to think some non-existent higher power was determined to throw his ex-boyfriend in his face.
First, there was the busker on the corner singing Teenage Dream. Kurt had waved a ten in front of the guy's face and told him he could have it if he never sang that song again.
Later he stumbled past the grand opening of a new pet store in his neighborhood, complete with a person in a canary costume. A fucking giant yellow bird. He had to do something to get his mind off Blaine.
He stopped at the University Library to get an article for class and when he checked his email there was a notice from the theater department announcing West Side Story as the spring musical.
When he finally dragged himself home he discovered that Rachel had raided his closet without permission and was wearing the blue Hermes scarf that Blaine had given him last Christmas because "it was almost as beautiful as his eyes." Giving her a bitch face so fierce she actually jumped backwards he stormed into his room and slammed the door. He was really sick of thinking about Blaine Anderson.
**KB**
Blaine followed Finn back to the Hummel-Hudson house and parked across the street. Other than the snow it looked exactly the same as the last time he’d been there. He couldn't keep his eyes from drifting to the second window on the left, which he knew was Kurt's bedroom.
Finn led him in through the side door and nodded to the driveway, "Looks like everyone's home. Try not to freak out too much. If Burt was actually capable of murder I wouldn't have made it past the first week we all lived together."
Blaine made a mental note to ask exactly what he meant by that later and tightly wrapped his hand around the strap of his
backpack. He could do this. In fact, compared to the possibility of facing Kurt anytime soon this was the easy part.
He wasn't quite sure how to start, but luckily Finn took care of that.
"Mom? Burt? Can you come into the living room? We need to talk to you," Finn said, throwing himself across the sofa.
Blaine stood in the middle of the room too nervous to sit as he heard the adults coming towards the living room.
"No need to yell, Finn. What do you mean "we"?" Carole said, sounding worried. She stopped when she came though the doorway and saw Blaine standing there, Burt stood behind her and crossed his arms.
"He followed me home, mom. Can I keep him?" Finn asked with a snicker.
"Not helping," hissed Blaine as he tried to read the expressions on the Hummels' faces.
It was then that Carole got past the shock of Blaine being there. She registered the bruises on his face and went into mother mode.
"Oh, honey! What happened?" She asked. It looked like she was going to hug him, but she stopped and patted his shoulder instead. Blaine could have really used a motherly hug just then, but it was kind of hard for everyone to figure out how to act.
"I got into an argument, and things got out of control," Blaine said.
Finn snorted, "His father hit him and then threw him out."
"Finn!" Blaine had hoped to work up to it. Though on the plus side Kurt's dad didn't look quite as angry as he had a few minutes ago.
"Just saving us all some time man," Finn said with a shrug.
"I know I don't have a right to ask for anything from your family, but I don't know where else to go and I'm scared. Mr. Schue caught me sleeping in my car last night. If I can't find a safe place to stay, one that CPS will approve, they'll put me in foster care. That probably means some kind of group home," Blaine explained.
"Well," Carole said with a sigh, "at least this one isn't pregnant."
Finn made a face, but seemed to know better than to say anything.
Burt still hadn't said a word and Blaine kind of wished he'd yell or threaten him or something, anything was better than the silence.
Finally he spoke, "Carole, why don't you go start dinner. Finn can help you. Blaine and I are going to talk man to man."
She squeezed Blaine's shoulder again before heading for the kitchen, but not before stopping to whisper something in her husband's ear. Burt rolled his eyes and said "I won't" before waiting for Finn to follow his mother out of the room.
"Sit down, kid. My wife seems to think I'm going to be hard on you, but I think you've probably taken enough crap in the last couple days. She also says this is my call. So, hopefully we can do this the easy way; I'm going to ask you some questions and you are going to answer honestly. If I think you're lying we're done and you can take your chances with whatever Schuester can come up with. Got it?"
"Yes, sir. Thank you," Blaine said as he dropped into the armchair and rested his elbows on his knees and his head in his hands.
"Your father hit you?" he asked, and Blaine caught the same protective look Finn had worn earlier.
"Yes, sir," Blaine said, hoping he wasn't going to have to repeat this again to a social worker in the morning.
"My first instinct is to drive to Westerville and see if he has the guts to take on a grown man instead of smacking his kid around,"
Burt said, "But that won't really solve anything will it?"
Blaine bit his slip to keep from grinning, but the corners of his mouth turned up just the same. "I appreciate the thought sir, but he'd probably press charges. I'd be worried about your heart anyway."
The other man was looking at Blaine like he'd said something particularly interesting and he wasn't sure why. Kurt would be devastated if his dad had even the tiniest cardiac episode.
"And you can't go home? What does your mother think of all this?"
"He told me I had fifteen minutes to pack and get out of his house. I'll spare you the details of the things he called us. My mother will never cross him, he could cut off her platinum card," Blaine said bitterly. He had mostly tried to stay out of his parents' way since he went to Dalton. He wasn't sure his mother even knew he had transferred to another school.
"Called us? What do you mean us?" Burt asked.
Blaine really wished he hadn't let that slip, "Um, he knows how to push my buttons. He started talking about Kurt. That's when things kind of got out of control."
Burt nodded, his jaw clenched. "When was the last time you talked to my son?"
"The night I broke up with him. I didn't want to hurt him like that, but I thought it was for the best," Blaine said. He let his eyes wander until they stopped on a framed picture of Kurt and Finn from their parents' wedding, Kurt looked so happy despite everything else that was happening when they first met.
"What are your plans when you finish McKinley?"
"I've applied to NYADA and NYU, plus OSU and Kent just in case. That was one of the things my father wasn't happy about. My college money is a family trust though, my father can't keep me from it once I turn 18," Blaine explained.
He watched as Burt slid back further in his chair, the interrogation seemingly over, "You can stay here. There was one more question I was going to ask, but I think I already know the answer."
Blaine felt himself sag with relief, "Thank you sir. I'll get a job and pay my own expenses as much as I can. I need to call Mr. Schue and let him know I'm okay. He said Ms. Pillsbury can help with the paperwork."
Burt nodded, "I know the garage isn't really your thing, but I've got a buddy that owns a sandwich shop and he could use an employee that actually has manners."
He was trying really hard not to cry, he'd been so scared and now things were going to be okay and he really didn't deserve all this from Kurt's family. "Thank you doesn't quite cover it," he said.
"Graduate, get into school, and find somewhere to be happy. That's thanks enough," Burt said.
Blaine nodded.
"One more thing," Burt said, "Kurt will be back from New York in a few days. We both know he's going to throw a fit at first but I'm hoping when he calms down he'll understand. Kurt will always come first in my house, and I know you get that, but he only has to be at home for two weeks between now and when you graduate. We're not going to put you out because he can't act like an adult for a few days."
"I hope that won't be a problem. I hope he'll listen to what I have to say to him, but if not I will stay out of his way. I'd never want him to be uncomfortable at home, I know what that's like," he said.
"Okay kid, why don't you call Schuester and then Finn can help you bring your things in from the car. The guest room is now your room, so move things around if you need to. I'm guessing you're exhausted, so get some sleep and we'll talk more at dinner tomorrow."
"Yeah, it's been a long day," Blaine said. He quickly called Mr. Schue who was relieved to hear he'd be staying at the Hummel house. It didn't take long for them to bring in his stuff. He'd only managed to grab a few bags of clothes, his computer, a few photos and his guitar. He went into the kitchen to get a glass of water and found Carole sitting at the table reading a magazine. Before he could say anything she got to her feet and pulled him into a hug.
"It's going to be okay, sweetie. I made Finn tell me everything, and whether you end up with Kurt or not you have a home here for as long as you need it," she said.
It was exactly the motherly hug he had needed so badly, earlier and that combined with the fatigue and relief was enough to make him let go completely. He wrapped his arms around Carole and sobbed into her shoulder while she patted his hair in a way his own mother could never be bothered to do. He'd lost his parents, his house, and realized how badly he had messed up with Kurt. He should be at rock bottom, but these amazing people were taking him in and giving him another chance. He just hoped Kurt could give him another chance too.
*KB*
Kurt was settled at the tiny kitchen table with his English Lit notes sprawled out in front of him trying to finish studying for his final the next day. His phone rang and he was surprised to see "Dad" on the caller ID, it was nearly ten, much later than he would normally call.
"Dad? Is everything okay?" Kurt asked, flipping through his notebook to find more on the symbolism in a certain passage.
"Carole, Finn, and I are fine. How are you?"
Kurt leaned back and closed his notebook with a huff, he needed to get this stuff down. "I'm fine, just studying for my exam tomorrow. Can I call you some other time? I'm kind of busy," he said.
"Sorry kiddo, I think I better tell you now," his dad said, and Kurt was immediately suspicious.
"Tell me what? You said you were all fine," he replied.
"Well, here's the thing. Blaine came to the garage today. He's having some trouble and he needs somewhere to stay for a while," Burt said.
"What does that have to do with us?" Kurt asked, his tone sharp. He knew what was coming, but that didn't mean he was going to let his dad off easy.
"Kurt, Blaine is going to be staying with us for a while," Burt said, his voice gentle.
"WHAT? DAD! NO!" Kurt stood up from the table, his notes forgotten as he started to pace the three steps back and forth across the kitchen.
"Kurt, calm down. It's up to him to tell you the whole story, but this isn't up for discussion. I know that it might be a little uncomfortable while you are home, but this is how it has to be," his father explained.
"Up to him? No, dad. You need to tell me why on earth you would think it was okay to let my ex-boyfriend, the one that dumped me and broke my heart wihout any kind of explanation, live in our fucking house!"
"Kurt Hummel you'll watch that mouth when you are talking to me. I'm telling you now so you have time to think about this before you get home, I'm not asking your permission. I need you to trust me that this is the right thing to do. I love you and you will always come first, but I can't turn him away."
Kurt finally stopped pacing and stared at his phone, with the first flash of anger out of the way he was left with worry, "Dad, of course I trust you. You're the best man I know, but I don't know if I can do this."
"I do. I know you can. I think the two of you need to talk when you get home, but that's a decision you'll have to make for yourself. Right now all I'm asking is for you to share space with him," Burt said.
Kurt sighed and ran a hand through his hair, "Okay, I'll try. I really should get back to studying."
"That's my boy. I love you kiddo, I'll see you at the airport," his dad said.
"I love you too dad, see you then," Kurt said, and pressed the end button on his phone. So much for holiday cheer.
The rest of Kurt's week passed in a blur of exams and final projects. The only benefit of being completely overwhelmed by schoolwork was that he didn't have much time to think about his ex-boyfriend living in his house. It wasn't until he was on the plane back to Ohio that he had time to sort out his thoughts.
He had wanted to talk about it with Rachel, but decided she did not deserve input on his relationships after seeing her kiss Jesse St. James one day as he was coming out of class. She was definitely on best friend probation until she decided to be honest about her own bad decisions. He had, however, told her about the living arrangements and extracted a promise that Blaine could stay with her for the first night back to give Kurt a chance to catch up with his family. He really didn't want to share everything that had gone on in his life with his ex.
By the time they'd been in the air for a while Kurt could admit that if his father had allowed this he must have thought it was necessary. Still, he was angry. Blaine had decided that he didn't want to be a part of Kurt's life, and that should be that. He didn't get to show up when he got annoyed at his parents' indifference. Yes, it was unfortunate, but why couldn't Blaine just man up and deal with it for a few months until graduation.
Of course, he had never actually met Blaine's parents. Kurt supposed that maybe that should have given him a clue that the other boy wasn't as invested in their relationship as he had been. Still, it wasn't exactly a secret that Blaine envied the good relationship Kurt has with his family. Now Blaine was able to be a part of that and he didn't even have to pretend to be in love with Kurt anymore to do it.There was a part of him that knew he wasn't really being fair, he knew that Blaine had loved him once. Kurt had just never understood why Blaine had stopped loving him.
By the time the plane touched down in Ohio Kurt had a plan. He had to protect himself; he would be humiliated if Blaine could tell he still had feelings for him. He'd have to be cold at first, but if Blaine didn't push him then he could just treat him like an exchange student who was staying with them or something. It wasn't his job to make this easy on Blaine.
Despite their disagreement he couldn't help but throw himself into his dad's arms when he spotted him at baggage check. He'd never gone so long without seeing his dad and he missed him a lot.
"Kiddo, it's good to have you home," Burt said wrapping an arm around Kurt's shoulders.
"Thanks dad, I missed you. Finn and Carole too. I have so much to tell you," Kurt said yanking a suitcase that was nearly as big as he was off the carousel.
His dad smiled and took the handle of that bag while they waited for the other bags they knew were coming. Before long Kurt tugged one more suitcase off the track and shouldered a garment bag before they made their way to the car.
The way home was filled with Burt catching Kurt up on all the things that had been happening at the shop and around town since he'd been away. Kurt didn't want to repeat himself so he was waiting to talk until the whole family was together. He did notice that his father was carefully avoiding mentioning Blaine and he found he appreciated it more than he was annoyed by it.
When they finally arrived at home Kurt jumped out of the car and enthusiastically went to greet Carole and Finn. Tomorrow he was going to spend the night at Mercedes' house to catch up with her and Tina but tonight was all about his family.
It wasn't until all of his bags had been brought in and the Hudson Hummels were seated around the kitchen table with coffee and some of Carole's ginger snaps that Blaine made a shy appearance in the doorway.
Carole looked up at him and smiled, "I have a fresh batch of cookies. Would you like one?"
Before Blaine could answer Kurt cut him off, "Rachel is expecting you for the night. I'd like a chance to catch up with the people who care about me."
He was rather satisfied at the way his ex seemed to freeze and the small shake in his hands.
"She," Kurt said so the emphasis on that part couldn't be ignored, "would love to see you."
Kurt knew that over the years his father had learned to pick his battles, and he was hoping this was one he'd let go.
"Okay. Just for one night so everyone can adjust. You need to know that Carole and I take being Blaine's foster parents very seriously so everyone is just going to have to show a little maturity," Burt said.
"Kurt." It seemed like Blaine was going to say something and then changed his mind, "Okay, let me grab some stuff and I'll be out of your way."
"Thank you," Kurt said quietly, he would try to be civil if only for his father.
**KB**
Blaine sighed as he tossed some sweats and a change of clothes into his backpack. It wasn't so much that he minded spending time with Rachel; they had become pretty good friends during her senior year. He was also well aware that he was the one who had ended their relationship and he deserved whatever Kurt could throw at him. Sure, he'd been trying to do the right thing, but it had still hurt Kurt. He knew Kurt better than most people, including how vicious he could be when he was feeling afraid or vulnerable.
He checked the mirror and forced a smile; at least the bruise was gone. He didn't really want Rachel and her dads to see that. Blaine knew that Kurt didn't know the whole story of how he ended up at the Hummels' and that made the way Kurt was acting hurt a little less. He would have to tell him soon, but tonight was clearly not the time.
He quietly let himself out of the house and drove over the Berry's. As soon as he knocked on the door he barely saw the tiny pink blur that was Rachel before it collided with him.
"Blaine! I'm so glad you came. Are you okay? Was Kurt mean to you? What happened with your family? How is New Directions? Suffering without my leadership I'm sure. "
Blaine couldn't really get a word in, but her monologue was stopped when a voice interrupted from inside the house, "Rachel, darling. Let the poor boy in the house. You have all evening to catch up."
Blaine just smiled and shook his head; it was actually pretty comforting that New York hadn't changed Rachel very much. Rachel led him down the entrance way into the living room where her dads were watching the news.
"Blaine! It's nice to see you," said Leroy Berry, "Are you doing okay?"
"Yes sir, I was very lucky that Burt and Carole let me stay with them," Blaine answered. The older man nodded, "Yes, they are good people. I wish we could have done more to help."
"I know sir, if things don't thaw out a little there I may be visiting your daughter quite a bit while she's on break," Blaine said.
"I hope they do, but you are always welcome here. I won't keep you, I know Rachel is dying to get you up to her room and interrogate you on all things New Directions," Leroy said.
"Yes sir. Thank you, I know better than to keep her waiting," he said before allowing Rachel to push him up the stairs.
They had just settled on Rachel's still very pink and ruffled bed when she got right to the point, "Blaine you are very important to me and we mix well vocally, but Kurt is my best friend and I will not betray him."
"Rachel, I would never ask you to do that. If it's not too much can you tell me if he's happy? If he's seeing anyone?" He'd broken both their hearts so that Kurt could be happy, he at least had to know if he was.
"I think he's happy. He doesn't have to be afraid all the time. He's been out on a lot of dates, " Rachel said with a sad smile. Blaine's heart sunk. Of course that was what he'd wanted for Kurt, but the reality of it made him feel a little sick. He felt terrible, but he'd hoped that Kurt might still miss him just a little bit.
"That's good. Yeah, it's good. He deserves that," Blaine said. He hadn't done a very good job keeping his emotions in check.
Rachel immediately softened and leaned her head on his shoulder, "I didn't say he'd been on a lot of second dates. In fact, he hasn't spent the night outside of our apartment or had anyone stay over at ours. Does it make you feel better or worse that there isn't anyone special?"
"I don't even know anymore. If he's not better off then I may have made the biggest mistake of my life," Blaine said, eyes staring vacantly at the wall.
Rachel wrapped her arms around him, "I haven't told anyone else this, but I think you need to hear that I've been seeing Jesse. Yes, he hurt me really badly. But I love him and we fit together in a way that nobody else does for me. He's really trying to make this work and I want to give him the chance."
"Later on you are going to give me all the details on that, but I see what you are saying. Do you think I still have a chance?" His head had been buried in her shoulder, but now he was looking at her. He knew the expression on his face probably looked ridiculous, but if it would convince her he honestly wanted another chance it couldn't hurt.
"I think you might," she said biting her lip, "but if goes back to New York it will be too late."
"Thanks Rachel, I have a lot to think about. So, tell me about Jesse," he said. They talked another several hours about her classes, New Directions, and the many frustrating auditions she had been on since moving to the city. He was happy just to let Rachel be Rachel, especially since he didn't have to do much talking herself. It was nice to have his friend back.
**KB**
Kurt made sure he was out of the house the next day before Blaine got back from Rachel's. He knew he couldn't keep this up his whole vacation, and he knew he should be more mature about it. He just wasn't ready. He couldn't really escape though; Mercedes and Tina had barely taken the nail polish out before the questions started. He considered avoiding the subject entirely, but he gave up on that idea quickly. Not only was that unlikely to work with Mercedes, but he really needed to talk to somebody about everything.
"So what's the deal, baby?" Just as he expected Mercedes had her "don't even think about lying" look ready.
"He's living in my house and I don't have a choice about it," Kurt said.
"Why isn't he living at home?" Mercedes asked.
"I don't know, my dad said it's up to Blaine to tell me," Kurt replied, "We haven't said two words to each other since he dumped me."
"I can't believe your dad is letting him ignore you like that!" Tina said, "He won't really tell anyone at school what happened either, but I think Mr. Schue knows."
Kurt went to work removing the black polish she had on and kept his eyes on her fingers, "It's more the other way around, at least since I've been home. I may have immediately shipped him off to Rachel's and left before he got back."
"Oh, honey," Mercedes said, "you do realize you are going to have to talk to him. Nothing at all? Not a single text or an email all semester?"
"No, and it's for the best. Blaine wanted to be free to mess around with Warblers or whatever. He never actually gave me a real reason, but there was no point in drawing it out. He's hard enough to get over as it is," Kurt admitted.
"Kurt," Tina said, "I don't think that was it. He's been spending a lot of time with Artie and I and he hasn't even mentioned another guy. I heard him ask that Sebastian guy to leave him alone at Sectionals."
Kurt tried to focus intently on applying the purple glitter polish to Tina's nails, but that was a lot to take in. He'd been haunted, especially early on, by images of Blaine out on date after date or doing worse with other guys. It had a lot to do with why he'd been on so many dates himself. Of course he'd thought that at least he could claim moral superiority for not throwing himself around. The fact that Blaine has been alone this whole time was frankly messing with his head.
Mercedes swatted his hands away and took over Tina's manicure, "Now you look even more like someone has run over your dog, what are you thinking?"
"If he didn't want someone else, then what did I do wrong that he didn't want me?" This is what has been on the edge of his mind for months. Why wasn't he good enough? Why did Blaine stop loving him?
"Screw that, you are fabulous and if he forgot that then you don't need him," Mercedes said and he managed a small smile.
"Kurt, I think you need to talk to him. I think there is something off about this. He seemed sad a lot, even before he moved out. I helped proofread his application essays, Blaine applied to NYADA and NYU. When I asked why he wasn't applying to Oberlin he said it had to be New York," Tina said.
"Okay, none of this makes any sense," Kurt said.
Kurt made sure that he got back from Mercedes house early. It was the Saturday before Christmas and this was the day he always spent with Finn. It had started the first Christmas their parents were married. Finn had needed help with his Christmas shopping and since that was Kurt's area of expertise they had decided to do it together. They would eat lunch, do their shopping, and then go see the lamest holiday movie playing at the AMC. This was only the third year, but it had become their holiday tradition. Finn had even sent him a list of the upcoming releases before they left New York so they could decide on one together.
He let himself in the house and dropped his bag by the door. It was just about time for them to leave, but the house was silent. He wouldn't be surprised if Finn hadn't gotten up yet. He didn't work at the garage on Saturdays. When he got up to Finn's room, however, his stepbrother wasn't anywhere to be found so he he sent a quick text.
TO FINN:
Where are you? It's almost time for lunch. I'll even let you pick.
TO KURT:
Sorry dude. Blaine and I went for a late breakfast. Catch you later.
Well, that was just great. Blaine and Finn went for breakfast.
Somehow, Blaine had managed to interfere with one of the only traditions he and Finn had as a new family. Of course Finn was out with Blaine. Hell, he was probably introducing him as his brother by now. It was just perfect wasn't it? Blaine was small enough Finn could feel big protecting him, he liked football, and he could pass for straight. Everything Finn could want in a brother. Why would he want to go shopping with Kurt when he could get greasy eggs and bacon with Blaine?
Kurt sat on the couch and watched a marathon of Tabitha's Salon Takeover. Strangely, watching Tabitha kick ass did nothing to quell his anger. Every time he thought about his plans for today being derailed by his ex he got angrier and angrier. It took about two hours before Finn and Blaine walked in the door and Kurt exploded.
"How dare you! Why can't you just stay out of my life? I get that your family doesn't treat you like the center of the universe but you can't. have. mine!" Kurt was flat out screaming by the end of it, he could feel the blood rushing to his face and his fists were clenched at his side.
He took a breath and was ready to let loose with another round when he felt strong arms wrapping around his middle. It was Finn, "That's it, you're done. Would you look at him? Why are you being such a bitch?"
He couldn't actually answer because Finn had lifted him over his shoulder and was carrying him out of the room. When he actually looked back at Blaine he realized the other boy was curled up in a ball, tears obviously running down his face. After a few more seconds Finn plunked him down on his bed.
"What the hell is wrong with you?" Finn asked, slamming the bedroom door.
Kurt was seriously going to punch somebody, manicure be damned. "Me? I'm not the one who blew off our shopping trip to spend the day with your ex. I should point out that I could have spent the day with any one of your oh-so-lovely exes, but I came home because I thought we had a tradition!"
"Blaine was having a bad day. I figured it would be okay if we started our day a little later. Why are you being so selfish? You're a better person than this Kurt, I know you are," Finn said.
That hurt. He knew that sometimes he could be self-centered and a little bitchy, but he really thought he was becoming a better person.
"I just wish someone would actually acknowledge how hard this is for me," he said, flopping back on his bed.
"See that's what I mean. Hard for you? Which part was hard for you, being smacked around by your father or being thrown out of your house with 15 minutes to pack? Was it the night you spent in your car because you had nowhere else to go? Or was it this morning when you found out that you are an uncle but will probably never see the kid? Oh, wait that wasn't you that was Blaine,"
Finn said, shaking his head.
Kurt sat back up, "What?"
"You heard me. Someone had to give you a reality check," Fin said.
Blaine's father had hit him. Andrea had a baby and they wouldn't let Blaine visit? Kurt felt sick. He'd never considered what had actually happened, because he'd been too busy casting Blaine as the villain in The Kurt Hummel Story.
"Why didn't anyone tell me?" He asked, his voice small.
"You didn't really give anyone a chance, dude," Finn replied, "The question now is what you are going to do now that you know. You can't possibly hate him this much."
Kurt ran a hand through his hair, "I don't hate him at all, that's the problem."
"So what are you going to do?"
Kurt stood up and straightened his bow tie, "I'm going downstairs to apologize and talk to him if he'll let me."
"He will. I'm sure of it," Finn said as Kurt walked out the door to talk to Blaine for the first time in nearly six months.