{fic} All Along...It Was You 2/4
“We’ll continue your checkups here at our Chicago clinic until the 33rd week. At that point you’ll have to travel to IU Hospital in Indianapolis where the delivery will take place. Your cesarean will be scheduled as soon as the fetus has reached the necessary milestones.”
Kurt laid on his back, staring at the ceiling while the technician performed the weekly measurements and ultrasound. He was daydreaming slightly, lost in thought when the technician stated bluntly, “yep, he’s a boy.”
Kurt’s first thought was…’well, of course I am. Are we still having this discussion?’ and then immediately, realization hit. “I’m having a boy?”
The doctor smiled as he handed Kurt some tissues. “You’re at 21 weeks. He’s developing beautifully.” Kurt wiped his eyes instead of his belly.
~~>>~~>>~~>><<~~<<~~<<~~
“The storms weren’t that bad, David. I think it’s just that old tree was ready to go.”
“I’ll drive up tomorrow morning, mom, and take care of it. Are you sure there’s no damage to the house?”
“The house is fine, dear. And you don’t have to drive all the way up here. I could get a neighborhood kid to cut up the tree. It’s not that big--”
“Mom, no. You can’t have kids chopping up a fallen tree on your property.” Dave sighed. “I’ll be there tomorrow morning, ok?”
“Well, if you’re coming all this way, you might as well stay the night.”
“It’s not that far, mom. But sure…I’ll stay, if you want me to.”
“Oh, I have a wonderful idea. You could go with me to the senior center and sing to the residents. They used to love to hear you sing. And you used to love doing it.”
“Oh no….no, no, no. I can’t even….no, mom, I haven’t sung in years.”
“Oh, honey, please. You have such a wonderful voice. And I haven’t heard you sing in so long. Make your mother proud, come sing for the residents tomorrow…please. Pretty please?”
Dave knew at that moment there was absolutely no way he could get out of singing at his mother’s nursing home. Exasperated, he grumbled, “I’ll…think about it. See you tomorrow, mom. Love you.”
He would need a stiff drink afterwards. And before, if he could manage it.
~~>>~~>>~~>><<~~<<~~<<~~
“Oh my god, you’re huge!”
Kurt’s smile disappeared from his face and instant tears prickled at his eyes. “I kno-o-o-ow!” he wailed.
“Oh no, no…no…no…I’m so sorry, Kurt.” Quinn did her best to backpedal. “I didn’t mean it that way. Honey, I’ve been there. Kurt, sweetie, you’re beautiful….you’re glowing.” She hugged her sobbing brother-in-law, rubbing his back to soothe him. “A big belly just means you have a healthy baby, Kurt. That’s all I meant.”
Kurt pulled back and sniffled. “Well, duh.” He turned to Finn, who looked slightly mortified, and asked, “…is there anything to eat?”
“Good to see you too, bro.” Finn laughed as they hugged. “How are those mood swings working out for you?”
“Not bad.” Kurt answered. “It’s the weird cravings and almost constant hunger that annoy me the most. Are mom and dad on their way?”
“Yes. Thank goodness.”
~~>>~~>>~~>><<~~<<~~<<~~
“My mom told me she saw you a while back. Still working at Home Depot?”
“Yeah, man. Still there. ‘Cedes is back at work at the hospital now too. Our youngest started kindergarten this year so she decided she was going back to work.”
Dave took another drink from his beer bottle, staring blankly across the bar. They had talked about everything and pretty much everyone, already. Everyone…except….“Ever see Hummel around town?”
“Kurt Hummel? Nah. I see Hudson, though. He lives across town but I run into him from time to time. He’s managing the shop now since, you know…Kurt’s dad retired.” Azimio put his bottle down and stared at his friend. “You still hung up on that boy, aren’t you?”
“I saw him. Last November.” Dave stared into the distance. He sighed and then shook his head. “Something about being back in Lima, I can’t stop thinking about him.” He took another swig of beer. “Fuck, who am I kidding. I think about him just as much when I’m not here.”
~~>>~~>>~~>><<~~<<~~<<~~
“I don’t want to go out.” Kurt whined. “I’m already an emotionally fragile, hormonal man with a belly the size of a Volkswagen.…don’t make me go out in public just so I can be gawked at by the townsfolk.”
Finn chuckled but persisted. “Dude, just go to Tony’s with me and watch the game. I need to get out of the house. Quinn and mom are driving me up the wall.” He was close to begging.
Kurt huffed. “Fine, but let me put on one of your old sweatshirts or something first. Sometimes it’s better to just appear fat than a pregnant freak of nature.”
They parked in front of the small tavern and got out. “I thought Tony’s was a restaurant.” Kurt asked hesitantly.
“It is. It’s a bar, too, actually. Well, it’s a sports bar that serves food…so that’s like a restaurant.” Finn held open the door and Kurt stepped in.
They found a table with a prime TV-viewing angle and sat down. Kurt began frantically fanning himself, breathing light and shallow as he sat back in his chair. “Oh my lord, is it hot in here?”
“It’s not hot in here, Kurt. It’s like…normal temperature.” He watched Kurt continue to pant. “Are you having one of your hot flash things?”
“God, probably. I’m gonna go splash some water on my face. Order me a ginger ale, would you?” Kurt began tugging at the bottom of his sweatshirt as he rounded the corner to the restrooms, pulling it up over his head as he bumped into something large and solid standing in front of the men’s room door.
~~>>~~>>~~>><<~~<<~~<<~~
“Kurt?”
“Oh, my god…would you move your fucking house of a body?” Kurt pushed past Dave and rushed to the sink. After tossing the sweatshirt onto the paper towel dispenser, he began vigorously splashing water onto his face, soaking the collar and sleeves of his shirt. “My god, why does it have to be so freaking hot in here? I mean seriously, they think they can crank the heat up to 100 fucking degrees and no one will notice? I’m basically melting here and they have Train playing over the speakers like everything is just fine and dandy. If I get heat stroke I’m going to fucking sue.”
Dave stood, stunned, speechless…Dear lord…it’s the Thanksgiving Day crescent rolls breakdown all over again. His eyes were locked on Kurt’s round face…until they drifted lower and settled on his pregnant belly. He waved his hand in front of the paper towel dispenser, tearing off several sections and handing them to Kurt as he turned back to face him.
“Why are you staring at me like that? What? Haven’t you seen a pregnant man before?”
“You’re…you’re preg--”
“Yes. What? Did you think I was just fat?”
“No….I mean….well, I didn’t know what to…”
“God, I am fa-a-at.” Kurt began sobbing, looking down at his baby bulge. “I’m fat and disgusting and no one will ever find me attractive after this baby is ripped out of me. My stretch marks are the most disgusting things you’d ever see in your life. Horror movie material, I swear.” Kurt’s head snapped up to look at Dave. “Why is it so cold in here? Do they have the air conditioning on?”
“Kurt, is everything…Karofsky?” Finn stepped into the restroom, standing between the two men. “Kurt, are you ok?”
“I’m perfectly fine, Finn.” Kurt answered, as if it was a strange question.
Finn didn’t miss the panicked look on Dave’s face. “Great, why don’t you put your sweatshirt back on and go sit at our table. I got you that ginger ale you wanted….” Finn led Kurt out of the restroom and then turned back to Dave, holding the door half open with his foot. “I’m sorry, Karofsky…for whatever he may have just said to you. He’s experiencing some pretty drastic mood swings and he can’t really help it. So…um. Yeah. Sorry.”
“Wait.” Dave stopped him. “He’s really…pregnant? Seriously? There’s a baby…actually…”
“Yeah. Inside him. I know, right? Freaky as hell.” Finn half smiled at Dave’s bewildered look.
“So…um…his boyfriend or husband or whatever…they’re going to…”
“No, Dave. Kurt’s on his own. He did this on his own. We’re here, of course…his family, I mean…but Kurt lives in Chicago. By himself, at least until the baby comes.” Finn looked back towards the table where Kurt sat. “I gotta go. It was nice seeing you again. Take care.”
“Yeah….you too.” Dave replied quietly to the closed door.
~~>>~~>>~~>><<~~<<~~<<~~
It was several months before Dave got up the nerve to call. He hadn’t been able to think about anything else…and….he knew it was a long shot. He tried to think that Finn was a decent enough person to be cool…and not scream at him or accuse him of being some sort of sicko. They weren’t best friends in high school but he wanted to think they at least….understood each other.
“Hummel Automotive. How can I help you?”
“Hudson?”
“Yeah? Who’s this?”
“Karofsky.”
“Oh, hey man. What’s up?”
Ok, that was encouraging. But now…what the hell…he didn’t have anything planned for what he was going to say next. “Um, I was…I was…wondering. I know it’s none of my business. I’m sorry. I was just…”
“Hey, can you hold on a sec?” Dave waited as he heard the sounds of someone in the background asking Finn a question. He listened to the muffled conversation, trying to gather his nerve.
“Alright, sorry about that. What can I do for you?”
“I’m sorry for bothering you at work, man. This was stupid. Fuck, I’ll just…call another time.”
“It’s no problem, Karofsky. That was just a tech, nothing important. What’s up?”
“Well. I was…I was wondering how Kurt was. How, um…everything turned out. With the….baby.”
“Oh, yeah. Things went great. He had a little boy um….July, July 30th. Healthy and fine and all that.”
Dave was surprised to realize he had been holding his breath. He let out a huge sigh.
“Yeah, my mom’s there now. She’s spent like, the last month there, helping him. It’s still pretty freaky, you know….Kurt having a baby….but yeah, he’s adorable. His name’s Elijah.”
Dave couldn’t think of anything to say. So he didn’t. He just sat there at his desk in downtown Cincinnati, smiling like a dork and thinking about how adorable Kurt Hummel’s baby would have to be.
Finn noticed the silence…as well as the calm, deep breaths coming across the line. “Um, Dave? Was there anything else…?”
“Yeah.” Ok, his voice was way too high to be taken seriously right there. “I was just…thinking. You can tell me to fuck off, Hudson, ok. I wouldn’t blame you. But…well, I wanted to ask. Do you think Kurt would ever consider…? I mean, do you think I would have a chance…?” Dave trailed off. He heard Finn sigh deeply….he squeezed his eyes shut and waited for the line to go dead.
“You know, I always thought you were ok.” Finn stopped himself and laughed. “Well, that’s a lie. I mean you were an asshole during all that bullshit sophomore and junior year. But senior year was alright. I know you were getting your head together and you showed major balls making things right and making yourself, you know…a better person. If Kurt hadn’t been wrapped around Blaine’s finger so tightly….I think, yeah. I think you two could have been pretty awesome together.”
Dave almost dropped the phone. Did Finn just…? Fuck…he was still talking.
“He just had a baby, Karofsky. He broke up with Blaine over two years ago and hasn’t been on a single date since. The hormones really messed with his head and he’s still kinda fragile. He’s my brother and I will always do what I can to protect him. But if you’re asking for well, some kind of green light from me….you got it. I think you should give it a shot.”
“Are you…are you serious, man?”
“You’ll be in Lima for Thanksgiving, right? Why don’t you stop by, like the day before, you know. Just casually stop in. I’ll be there, I’ll help smooth it over if he starts acting crazy.”
Dave stood and started pacing the floor in his office. Three weeks til Thanksgiving. Fuck. Ok, I can do this. “Um, thanks, Hudson. Finn. You were always way too cool to me, you know.”
“I don’t think so. I think you were just too hard on yourself. See you soon, man.”
~~>>~~>>~~>><<~~<<~~<<~~
“Oh my god, he’s changed so much since I saw him last!” Mercedes started getting weepy as she held the sleeping baby. “I still can’t believe it, Kurt. This is a miracle. An honest to God, miracle.”
“Miracle of science, yes.” Kurt chuckled lightly. “You know how I feel about the other kind.”
Mercedes grumbled under her breath. “How anyone can deny the existence of God while looking into the face of a precious child….hmmph. But you know I love you, Kurt. I really do.”
“I love you too, doll. And it’s not the existence of god that I’m concerned about. It’s the fanatical religious nut-jobs and what they’re saying about all this. I mean, luckily, I was able to stay out of the public eye. The hospital was really good about keeping my personal information classified. But a family in California has had to deal with death threats and vandalism over their child’s birth. How anyone can claim that a precious newborn child could be the spawn of the devil and must therefore die is a mystery to me.”
“I’m really sorry, Kurt. There is nothing evil about this baby or the way he came into the world. I do not believe in the hatred those people promote. This little guy here…is an angel.”
“Well, I agree with you there.” Kurt sighed, sitting back against the couch cushions. “He is such a good baby. Already sleeping six hours through the night, which is pretty good for four months. I go back to work next week, so I’m glad he’s on a good sleep schedule.”
“It must be pretty sweet being able to take a six month paternity leave.”
“Well, I kind of had to. I was only able to hide under baggy clothes for so long. The day-spa and salon I work at is high-end, if you know what I mean. They have strict standards of appearance that apply equally to men and women. Once I started putting on weight, they had a talk with me about professionalism and my dedication to my craft.” He chuckled. “I finally confided in the owner. It was scary but I felt like I could trust her. She was shocked, of course and wouldn’t stop touching my belly.” Kurt giggled. “She let me wear these muumuu-looking smocks until it was time to take my ‘medical leave’ and head to Indianapolis.”
“I’m glad it all worked out for you. And this little guy. I can’t get over those chubby little cheeks.”
~~>>~~>>~~>><<~~<<~~<<~~
Dave stood at Kurt’s parents’ front door, his hand twisting nervously on the gift basket handle. Fuck…I should leave this lame piece of shit in the car. He won’t be impressed and I’ll just look like a fool. He started to turn back, when he heard the door open.
“I thought I heard somebody pull up.” Carole stood smiling at Dave’s stunned look. “How are you, David?”
“Um, fine….Mrs. Hummel. H-how are you?” Get it together, Dave, fuck.
“You know better than that, call me Carole.”
“Hey man.” Finn appeared at his mother’s side. “Come on in. Aww, you brought a present. Way to win points, dude…good call.”
Dave entered the house and followed Finn into the living room. He heard conversation and a baby’s cries coming from another room…the kitchen perhaps. Dave felt goose bumps on his arms and the back of his neck.
Finn took the gift basket and set it next to the couch. “You want something to drink? Soda…iced tea, um…whiskey?” Finn smirked at Dave’s bewildered expression. “It’s ok, dude. Really. Don’t be nervous. Say hi, hold the baby, ask him out. What’s the worst that could happen?”
“Hold the--” Dave stopped suddenly. “I don’t know if I should--”
At that moment Quinn came into the room, holding the baby over her shoulder, “I told you the diaper bag was on the couch, Kurt. I’ll change him in here.” She looked up suddenly, noticing the men standing in the room. “David Karofsky? What are you…?”
“Karofsky?” Kurt followed Quinn into the room and froze. “Oh.…”
“He wanted to come by and say hi, Kurt. Isn’t that nice? He brought you something.” Finn smiled at Kurt whose eyes hadn’t left Dave’s. Finn swung his head back towards Dave who stood frozen as well. Finn wanted to fist pump the air when he saw the way they were looking at each other. But he refrained.
“Hi, Kurt. You look… good.” Dave swallowed.
“Thank you.” Kurt answered in a small voice, a polite smile tugging at the corners of his mouth.
“Well, this isn’t awkward.” Quinn mumbled as she continued changing the baby’s diaper. She finished up, snapped the baby’s pajamas back together and stood. Taking three deliberate steps across the room, she held the baby out for Kurt. “Here. Here’s your baby. Clean and ready for more company.”
Kurt took his son in his arms and sat cautiously on the couch. “You brought a gift?” He asked quietly, eyebrows raised.
“Yeah. It’s nothing, really. Just…um...” Dave’s eyes left Kurt’s momentarily and he looked down at the baby’s face. He immediately lost his train of thought. Before he could stop himself, he was on the couch, sitting next to Kurt, lost in the tiny brown eyes he saw there. “He’s beautiful, Kurt.”
Kurt’s eyes flashed up to Finn’s in alarm. He started breathing heavy and looked like he might be about to flip out. Finn knew it wasn't a hot flash thingy or an irrational emotional breakdown. This was different...this was 'Oh my god...why is this gorgeous hunk of man sitting so close to me and admiring my baby?' Finn mouthed the words ‘it’s ok…’ as well as he could. He proceeded to make a poor attempt at mouthing and miming ‘he just wants to see the baby…’ moving his hands to point to Dave and then making a rocking baby-motion with his hands. Kurt calmed himself, looked back at Finn...smiled and rolled his eyes.
“Um…thank you, David.” Kurt breathed.
Dave looked up, meeting Kurt’s eyes. “I think it’s incredible, what you did. So amazing and fearless, like you always were. Having a baby on your own….I mean, actually having the baby. It’s..it’s just…amazing, Kurt.”
“Would you like to…hold him?” Kurt shifted Elijah slightly.
Dave panicked. “Um, well, I don’t want to hurt him. Or drop him….or…god, he’s so small.” Dave accepted the tiny bundle of baby, looking down at his curious but quiet brown eyes and chubby round cheeks. “Wow…” was all he could say.
“Yeah…wow.” Kurt answered.
“My god…are you serious? In front of Kroger?” Kurt laughed as he held his wine glass on his lap. “I had a breakdown in front of Kroger…trying to break into the store for crescent rolls? I am so sorry for doing that to you.”
“I had no idea what was going on.” Dave laughed. “It was…rather peculiar behavior…I have to admit. But no apology needed. You couldn’t help it and I’m glad you don’t remember it.”
“I’m glad you weren’t arrested.” Finn added, chuckling. “At least I was there when you freaked out at Tony’s.”
“Wish I could remember...” Kurt chuckled.
“No you don’t!” Finn and Dave said in unison, then laughed.
They’d been talking for a while, catching up. But it was late and time to say goodnight.
“Well. Thanks again…for letting me hold your baby. If he can’t wear that outfit, I left the receipt in the basket….so, you know.”
“He’ll wear it. Thank you, David.”
“And the books…I know he can’t read yet. But if he doesn’t like them…you can always give them to Finn.”
“Hey!” Finn punched Dave on the arm, playfully.
Dave chuckled and shoved him back, jokingly. “Just kidding, man. I only bought them ‘cause I liked reading them myself.” He looked back towards Kurt, smiling, and mumbling, “…bye, Kurt.”
Finn spoke up before he was out of the door. “Hey, Karofsky? What are you doing tomorrow?”
“Um. It’s Thanksgiving. My mother and I…well, we’re planning on going to MCL Cafeteria. She’s getting older and I hate to have her cook just for me. So…yeah, MCL.”
“Nonsense. You should come back. Seriously. Have Thanksgiving dinner with us. And bring your mom.”
“No, dude. You don’t have to invite--”
“I just did. We have plenty of food. And come on…MCL? Carole and Quinn’s Thanksgiving masterpiece has got to kick MCL’s ass.”
Dave looked at Kurt, trying to gauge his reaction. Kurt looked at Finn then back at Dave, smiling sweetly. “Yes, Dave. Bring your mother, join us for Thanksgiving.”
~~>>~~>>~~>><<~~<<~~<<~~
“Never in my wildest dreams would I imagine men having babies…” Vickie placed the soundly sleeping Elijah back into Kurt’s arms while Dave held out his mother’s coat for her. “The things science can achieve nowadays…my lord.”
“Thank you for coming, Mrs. Karofsky. We’re glad you and Dave could share Thanksgiving with us.” Kurt’s voice was hushed in the quiet room. Something about the velvety sound of it made Dave’s breath catch in his throat.
“No…thank you, dear. Tell your mother goodnight for me and I look forward to seeing her at the senior center if she can make it.” Vickie looked at her son and his outstretched arms, holding open her coat for her. She looked back at Kurt, holding his sleeping baby in his arms. “I’m just gonna use the powder room before we go, alright dear?”
Dave rolled his eyes at his mother’s obvious attempt to get them alone. But he knew he should be grateful. He hadn’t really had the chance to talk to Kurt in private yet. Now or never, dude….do it, ask him. They stood awkwardly in silence for a moment while Dave gathered his nerve. “Kurt…” he finally said, “…would you like to…do something? Tomorrow night, with me?”
“You mean, like on a…date?” Kurt asked, smirking.
“Yes,” Dave answered quietly, smiling, “me and you…on a date.” He reached up and unthinkingly stroked the silky soft curls of the sleeping child. “It doesn’t have to be anything big. I know you don’t want to leave him for very long. So maybe just a movie or…”
“Are you kidding me?” Kurt chuckled. “Dinner, movie, drinks…I want the whole experience! I haven’t gone out or seen a movie in ages. I might call to check up on him several times during the evening but…a night out…a date? Yes, David…that sounds delightful.”
Dave looked up and met Kurt’s eyes. There was so much he wanted to say but he was simply too lost in the admiration of Kurt’s gorgeous smile to form words.
“Ok, I’m ready to go now.” Dave’s mom announced, coming back to stand by the front door. “Goodnight and thank you again, Kurt.”
“My pleasure, Mrs. Karofsky.” Turning to Dave, he winked, “I’ll see you tomorrow.”
Dave walked his mother out to his car in a daze. He couldn't believe it....he had a date with Kurt Hummel.
~~>>~~>>~~>><<~~<<~~<<~~
Chapter 3 - Can I tell you a secret, Elijah?
Kurt laid on his back, staring at the ceiling while the technician performed the weekly measurements and ultrasound. He was daydreaming slightly, lost in thought when the technician stated bluntly, “yep, he’s a boy.”
Kurt’s first thought was…’well, of course I am. Are we still having this discussion?’ and then immediately, realization hit. “I’m having a boy?”
The doctor smiled as he handed Kurt some tissues. “You’re at 21 weeks. He’s developing beautifully.” Kurt wiped his eyes instead of his belly.
~~>>~~>>~~>><<~~<<~~<<~~
“The storms weren’t that bad, David. I think it’s just that old tree was ready to go.”
“I’ll drive up tomorrow morning, mom, and take care of it. Are you sure there’s no damage to the house?”
“The house is fine, dear. And you don’t have to drive all the way up here. I could get a neighborhood kid to cut up the tree. It’s not that big--”
“Mom, no. You can’t have kids chopping up a fallen tree on your property.” Dave sighed. “I’ll be there tomorrow morning, ok?”
“Well, if you’re coming all this way, you might as well stay the night.”
“It’s not that far, mom. But sure…I’ll stay, if you want me to.”
“Oh, I have a wonderful idea. You could go with me to the senior center and sing to the residents. They used to love to hear you sing. And you used to love doing it.”
“Oh no….no, no, no. I can’t even….no, mom, I haven’t sung in years.”
“Oh, honey, please. You have such a wonderful voice. And I haven’t heard you sing in so long. Make your mother proud, come sing for the residents tomorrow…please. Pretty please?”
Dave knew at that moment there was absolutely no way he could get out of singing at his mother’s nursing home. Exasperated, he grumbled, “I’ll…think about it. See you tomorrow, mom. Love you.”
He would need a stiff drink afterwards. And before, if he could manage it.
~~>>~~>>~~>><<~~<<~~<<~~
“Oh my god, you’re huge!”
Kurt’s smile disappeared from his face and instant tears prickled at his eyes. “I kno-o-o-ow!” he wailed.
“Oh no, no…no…no…I’m so sorry, Kurt.” Quinn did her best to backpedal. “I didn’t mean it that way. Honey, I’ve been there. Kurt, sweetie, you’re beautiful….you’re glowing.” She hugged her sobbing brother-in-law, rubbing his back to soothe him. “A big belly just means you have a healthy baby, Kurt. That’s all I meant.”
Kurt pulled back and sniffled. “Well, duh.” He turned to Finn, who looked slightly mortified, and asked, “…is there anything to eat?”
“Good to see you too, bro.” Finn laughed as they hugged. “How are those mood swings working out for you?”
“Not bad.” Kurt answered. “It’s the weird cravings and almost constant hunger that annoy me the most. Are mom and dad on their way?”
“Yes. Thank goodness.”
~~>>~~>>~~>><<~~<<~~<<~~
“My mom told me she saw you a while back. Still working at Home Depot?”
“Yeah, man. Still there. ‘Cedes is back at work at the hospital now too. Our youngest started kindergarten this year so she decided she was going back to work.”
Dave took another drink from his beer bottle, staring blankly across the bar. They had talked about everything and pretty much everyone, already. Everyone…except….“Ever see Hummel around town?”
“Kurt Hummel? Nah. I see Hudson, though. He lives across town but I run into him from time to time. He’s managing the shop now since, you know…Kurt’s dad retired.” Azimio put his bottle down and stared at his friend. “You still hung up on that boy, aren’t you?”
“I saw him. Last November.” Dave stared into the distance. He sighed and then shook his head. “Something about being back in Lima, I can’t stop thinking about him.” He took another swig of beer. “Fuck, who am I kidding. I think about him just as much when I’m not here.”
~~>>~~>>~~>><<~~<<~~<<~~
“I don’t want to go out.” Kurt whined. “I’m already an emotionally fragile, hormonal man with a belly the size of a Volkswagen.…don’t make me go out in public just so I can be gawked at by the townsfolk.”
Finn chuckled but persisted. “Dude, just go to Tony’s with me and watch the game. I need to get out of the house. Quinn and mom are driving me up the wall.” He was close to begging.
Kurt huffed. “Fine, but let me put on one of your old sweatshirts or something first. Sometimes it’s better to just appear fat than a pregnant freak of nature.”
They parked in front of the small tavern and got out. “I thought Tony’s was a restaurant.” Kurt asked hesitantly.
“It is. It’s a bar, too, actually. Well, it’s a sports bar that serves food…so that’s like a restaurant.” Finn held open the door and Kurt stepped in.
They found a table with a prime TV-viewing angle and sat down. Kurt began frantically fanning himself, breathing light and shallow as he sat back in his chair. “Oh my lord, is it hot in here?”
“It’s not hot in here, Kurt. It’s like…normal temperature.” He watched Kurt continue to pant. “Are you having one of your hot flash things?”
“God, probably. I’m gonna go splash some water on my face. Order me a ginger ale, would you?” Kurt began tugging at the bottom of his sweatshirt as he rounded the corner to the restrooms, pulling it up over his head as he bumped into something large and solid standing in front of the men’s room door.
~~>>~~>>~~>><<~~<<~~<<~~
“Kurt?”
“Oh, my god…would you move your fucking house of a body?” Kurt pushed past Dave and rushed to the sink. After tossing the sweatshirt onto the paper towel dispenser, he began vigorously splashing water onto his face, soaking the collar and sleeves of his shirt. “My god, why does it have to be so freaking hot in here? I mean seriously, they think they can crank the heat up to 100 fucking degrees and no one will notice? I’m basically melting here and they have Train playing over the speakers like everything is just fine and dandy. If I get heat stroke I’m going to fucking sue.”
Dave stood, stunned, speechless…Dear lord…it’s the Thanksgiving Day crescent rolls breakdown all over again. His eyes were locked on Kurt’s round face…until they drifted lower and settled on his pregnant belly. He waved his hand in front of the paper towel dispenser, tearing off several sections and handing them to Kurt as he turned back to face him.
“Why are you staring at me like that? What? Haven’t you seen a pregnant man before?”
“You’re…you’re preg--”
“Yes. What? Did you think I was just fat?”
“No….I mean….well, I didn’t know what to…”
“God, I am fa-a-at.” Kurt began sobbing, looking down at his baby bulge. “I’m fat and disgusting and no one will ever find me attractive after this baby is ripped out of me. My stretch marks are the most disgusting things you’d ever see in your life. Horror movie material, I swear.” Kurt’s head snapped up to look at Dave. “Why is it so cold in here? Do they have the air conditioning on?”
“Kurt, is everything…Karofsky?” Finn stepped into the restroom, standing between the two men. “Kurt, are you ok?”
“I’m perfectly fine, Finn.” Kurt answered, as if it was a strange question.
Finn didn’t miss the panicked look on Dave’s face. “Great, why don’t you put your sweatshirt back on and go sit at our table. I got you that ginger ale you wanted….” Finn led Kurt out of the restroom and then turned back to Dave, holding the door half open with his foot. “I’m sorry, Karofsky…for whatever he may have just said to you. He’s experiencing some pretty drastic mood swings and he can’t really help it. So…um. Yeah. Sorry.”
“Wait.” Dave stopped him. “He’s really…pregnant? Seriously? There’s a baby…actually…”
“Yeah. Inside him. I know, right? Freaky as hell.” Finn half smiled at Dave’s bewildered look.
“So…um…his boyfriend or husband or whatever…they’re going to…”
“No, Dave. Kurt’s on his own. He did this on his own. We’re here, of course…his family, I mean…but Kurt lives in Chicago. By himself, at least until the baby comes.” Finn looked back towards the table where Kurt sat. “I gotta go. It was nice seeing you again. Take care.”
“Yeah….you too.” Dave replied quietly to the closed door.
~~>>~~>>~~>><<~~<<~~<<~~
It was several months before Dave got up the nerve to call. He hadn’t been able to think about anything else…and….he knew it was a long shot. He tried to think that Finn was a decent enough person to be cool…and not scream at him or accuse him of being some sort of sicko. They weren’t best friends in high school but he wanted to think they at least….understood each other.
“Hummel Automotive. How can I help you?”
“Hudson?”
“Yeah? Who’s this?”
“Karofsky.”
“Oh, hey man. What’s up?”
Ok, that was encouraging. But now…what the hell…he didn’t have anything planned for what he was going to say next. “Um, I was…I was…wondering. I know it’s none of my business. I’m sorry. I was just…”
“Hey, can you hold on a sec?” Dave waited as he heard the sounds of someone in the background asking Finn a question. He listened to the muffled conversation, trying to gather his nerve.
“Alright, sorry about that. What can I do for you?”
“I’m sorry for bothering you at work, man. This was stupid. Fuck, I’ll just…call another time.”
“It’s no problem, Karofsky. That was just a tech, nothing important. What’s up?”
“Well. I was…I was wondering how Kurt was. How, um…everything turned out. With the….baby.”
“Oh, yeah. Things went great. He had a little boy um….July, July 30th. Healthy and fine and all that.”
Dave was surprised to realize he had been holding his breath. He let out a huge sigh.
“Yeah, my mom’s there now. She’s spent like, the last month there, helping him. It’s still pretty freaky, you know….Kurt having a baby….but yeah, he’s adorable. His name’s Elijah.”
Dave couldn’t think of anything to say. So he didn’t. He just sat there at his desk in downtown Cincinnati, smiling like a dork and thinking about how adorable Kurt Hummel’s baby would have to be.
Finn noticed the silence…as well as the calm, deep breaths coming across the line. “Um, Dave? Was there anything else…?”
“Yeah.” Ok, his voice was way too high to be taken seriously right there. “I was just…thinking. You can tell me to fuck off, Hudson, ok. I wouldn’t blame you. But…well, I wanted to ask. Do you think Kurt would ever consider…? I mean, do you think I would have a chance…?” Dave trailed off. He heard Finn sigh deeply….he squeezed his eyes shut and waited for the line to go dead.
“You know, I always thought you were ok.” Finn stopped himself and laughed. “Well, that’s a lie. I mean you were an asshole during all that bullshit sophomore and junior year. But senior year was alright. I know you were getting your head together and you showed major balls making things right and making yourself, you know…a better person. If Kurt hadn’t been wrapped around Blaine’s finger so tightly….I think, yeah. I think you two could have been pretty awesome together.”
Dave almost dropped the phone. Did Finn just…? Fuck…he was still talking.
“He just had a baby, Karofsky. He broke up with Blaine over two years ago and hasn’t been on a single date since. The hormones really messed with his head and he’s still kinda fragile. He’s my brother and I will always do what I can to protect him. But if you’re asking for well, some kind of green light from me….you got it. I think you should give it a shot.”
“Are you…are you serious, man?”
“You’ll be in Lima for Thanksgiving, right? Why don’t you stop by, like the day before, you know. Just casually stop in. I’ll be there, I’ll help smooth it over if he starts acting crazy.”
Dave stood and started pacing the floor in his office. Three weeks til Thanksgiving. Fuck. Ok, I can do this. “Um, thanks, Hudson. Finn. You were always way too cool to me, you know.”
“I don’t think so. I think you were just too hard on yourself. See you soon, man.”
~~>>~~>>~~>><<~~<<~~<<~~
“Oh my god, he’s changed so much since I saw him last!” Mercedes started getting weepy as she held the sleeping baby. “I still can’t believe it, Kurt. This is a miracle. An honest to God, miracle.”
“Miracle of science, yes.” Kurt chuckled lightly. “You know how I feel about the other kind.”
Mercedes grumbled under her breath. “How anyone can deny the existence of God while looking into the face of a precious child….hmmph. But you know I love you, Kurt. I really do.”
“I love you too, doll. And it’s not the existence of god that I’m concerned about. It’s the fanatical religious nut-jobs and what they’re saying about all this. I mean, luckily, I was able to stay out of the public eye. The hospital was really good about keeping my personal information classified. But a family in California has had to deal with death threats and vandalism over their child’s birth. How anyone can claim that a precious newborn child could be the spawn of the devil and must therefore die is a mystery to me.”
“I’m really sorry, Kurt. There is nothing evil about this baby or the way he came into the world. I do not believe in the hatred those people promote. This little guy here…is an angel.”
“Well, I agree with you there.” Kurt sighed, sitting back against the couch cushions. “He is such a good baby. Already sleeping six hours through the night, which is pretty good for four months. I go back to work next week, so I’m glad he’s on a good sleep schedule.”
“It must be pretty sweet being able to take a six month paternity leave.”
“Well, I kind of had to. I was only able to hide under baggy clothes for so long. The day-spa and salon I work at is high-end, if you know what I mean. They have strict standards of appearance that apply equally to men and women. Once I started putting on weight, they had a talk with me about professionalism and my dedication to my craft.” He chuckled. “I finally confided in the owner. It was scary but I felt like I could trust her. She was shocked, of course and wouldn’t stop touching my belly.” Kurt giggled. “She let me wear these muumuu-looking smocks until it was time to take my ‘medical leave’ and head to Indianapolis.”
“I’m glad it all worked out for you. And this little guy. I can’t get over those chubby little cheeks.”
~~>>~~>>~~>><<~~<<~~<<~~
Dave stood at Kurt’s parents’ front door, his hand twisting nervously on the gift basket handle. Fuck…I should leave this lame piece of shit in the car. He won’t be impressed and I’ll just look like a fool. He started to turn back, when he heard the door open.
“I thought I heard somebody pull up.” Carole stood smiling at Dave’s stunned look. “How are you, David?”
“Um, fine….Mrs. Hummel. H-how are you?” Get it together, Dave, fuck.
“You know better than that, call me Carole.”
“Hey man.” Finn appeared at his mother’s side. “Come on in. Aww, you brought a present. Way to win points, dude…good call.”
Dave entered the house and followed Finn into the living room. He heard conversation and a baby’s cries coming from another room…the kitchen perhaps. Dave felt goose bumps on his arms and the back of his neck.
Finn took the gift basket and set it next to the couch. “You want something to drink? Soda…iced tea, um…whiskey?” Finn smirked at Dave’s bewildered expression. “It’s ok, dude. Really. Don’t be nervous. Say hi, hold the baby, ask him out. What’s the worst that could happen?”
“Hold the--” Dave stopped suddenly. “I don’t know if I should--”
At that moment Quinn came into the room, holding the baby over her shoulder, “I told you the diaper bag was on the couch, Kurt. I’ll change him in here.” She looked up suddenly, noticing the men standing in the room. “David Karofsky? What are you…?”
“Karofsky?” Kurt followed Quinn into the room and froze. “Oh.…”
“He wanted to come by and say hi, Kurt. Isn’t that nice? He brought you something.” Finn smiled at Kurt whose eyes hadn’t left Dave’s. Finn swung his head back towards Dave who stood frozen as well. Finn wanted to fist pump the air when he saw the way they were looking at each other. But he refrained.
“Hi, Kurt. You look… good.” Dave swallowed.
“Thank you.” Kurt answered in a small voice, a polite smile tugging at the corners of his mouth.
“Well, this isn’t awkward.” Quinn mumbled as she continued changing the baby’s diaper. She finished up, snapped the baby’s pajamas back together and stood. Taking three deliberate steps across the room, she held the baby out for Kurt. “Here. Here’s your baby. Clean and ready for more company.”
Kurt took his son in his arms and sat cautiously on the couch. “You brought a gift?” He asked quietly, eyebrows raised.
“Yeah. It’s nothing, really. Just…um...” Dave’s eyes left Kurt’s momentarily and he looked down at the baby’s face. He immediately lost his train of thought. Before he could stop himself, he was on the couch, sitting next to Kurt, lost in the tiny brown eyes he saw there. “He’s beautiful, Kurt.”
Kurt’s eyes flashed up to Finn’s in alarm. He started breathing heavy and looked like he might be about to flip out. Finn knew it wasn't a hot flash thingy or an irrational emotional breakdown. This was different...this was 'Oh my god...why is this gorgeous hunk of man sitting so close to me and admiring my baby?' Finn mouthed the words ‘it’s ok…’ as well as he could. He proceeded to make a poor attempt at mouthing and miming ‘he just wants to see the baby…’ moving his hands to point to Dave and then making a rocking baby-motion with his hands. Kurt calmed himself, looked back at Finn...smiled and rolled his eyes.
“Um…thank you, David.” Kurt breathed.
Dave looked up, meeting Kurt’s eyes. “I think it’s incredible, what you did. So amazing and fearless, like you always were. Having a baby on your own….I mean, actually having the baby. It’s..it’s just…amazing, Kurt.”
“Would you like to…hold him?” Kurt shifted Elijah slightly.
Dave panicked. “Um, well, I don’t want to hurt him. Or drop him….or…god, he’s so small.” Dave accepted the tiny bundle of baby, looking down at his curious but quiet brown eyes and chubby round cheeks. “Wow…” was all he could say.
“Yeah…wow.” Kurt answered.
“My god…are you serious? In front of Kroger?” Kurt laughed as he held his wine glass on his lap. “I had a breakdown in front of Kroger…trying to break into the store for crescent rolls? I am so sorry for doing that to you.”
“I had no idea what was going on.” Dave laughed. “It was…rather peculiar behavior…I have to admit. But no apology needed. You couldn’t help it and I’m glad you don’t remember it.”
“I’m glad you weren’t arrested.” Finn added, chuckling. “At least I was there when you freaked out at Tony’s.”
“Wish I could remember...” Kurt chuckled.
“No you don’t!” Finn and Dave said in unison, then laughed.
They’d been talking for a while, catching up. But it was late and time to say goodnight.
“Well. Thanks again…for letting me hold your baby. If he can’t wear that outfit, I left the receipt in the basket….so, you know.”
“He’ll wear it. Thank you, David.”
“And the books…I know he can’t read yet. But if he doesn’t like them…you can always give them to Finn.”
“Hey!” Finn punched Dave on the arm, playfully.
Dave chuckled and shoved him back, jokingly. “Just kidding, man. I only bought them ‘cause I liked reading them myself.” He looked back towards Kurt, smiling, and mumbling, “…bye, Kurt.”
Finn spoke up before he was out of the door. “Hey, Karofsky? What are you doing tomorrow?”
“Um. It’s Thanksgiving. My mother and I…well, we’re planning on going to MCL Cafeteria. She’s getting older and I hate to have her cook just for me. So…yeah, MCL.”
“Nonsense. You should come back. Seriously. Have Thanksgiving dinner with us. And bring your mom.”
“No, dude. You don’t have to invite--”
“I just did. We have plenty of food. And come on…MCL? Carole and Quinn’s Thanksgiving masterpiece has got to kick MCL’s ass.”
Dave looked at Kurt, trying to gauge his reaction. Kurt looked at Finn then back at Dave, smiling sweetly. “Yes, Dave. Bring your mother, join us for Thanksgiving.”
~~>>~~>>~~>><<~~<<~~<<~~
“Never in my wildest dreams would I imagine men having babies…” Vickie placed the soundly sleeping Elijah back into Kurt’s arms while Dave held out his mother’s coat for her. “The things science can achieve nowadays…my lord.”
“Thank you for coming, Mrs. Karofsky. We’re glad you and Dave could share Thanksgiving with us.” Kurt’s voice was hushed in the quiet room. Something about the velvety sound of it made Dave’s breath catch in his throat.
“No…thank you, dear. Tell your mother goodnight for me and I look forward to seeing her at the senior center if she can make it.” Vickie looked at her son and his outstretched arms, holding open her coat for her. She looked back at Kurt, holding his sleeping baby in his arms. “I’m just gonna use the powder room before we go, alright dear?”
Dave rolled his eyes at his mother’s obvious attempt to get them alone. But he knew he should be grateful. He hadn’t really had the chance to talk to Kurt in private yet. Now or never, dude….do it, ask him. They stood awkwardly in silence for a moment while Dave gathered his nerve. “Kurt…” he finally said, “…would you like to…do something? Tomorrow night, with me?”
“You mean, like on a…date?” Kurt asked, smirking.
“Yes,” Dave answered quietly, smiling, “me and you…on a date.” He reached up and unthinkingly stroked the silky soft curls of the sleeping child. “It doesn’t have to be anything big. I know you don’t want to leave him for very long. So maybe just a movie or…”
“Are you kidding me?” Kurt chuckled. “Dinner, movie, drinks…I want the whole experience! I haven’t gone out or seen a movie in ages. I might call to check up on him several times during the evening but…a night out…a date? Yes, David…that sounds delightful.”
Dave looked up and met Kurt’s eyes. There was so much he wanted to say but he was simply too lost in the admiration of Kurt’s gorgeous smile to form words.
“Ok, I’m ready to go now.” Dave’s mom announced, coming back to stand by the front door. “Goodnight and thank you again, Kurt.”
“My pleasure, Mrs. Karofsky.” Turning to Dave, he winked, “I’ll see you tomorrow.”
Dave walked his mother out to his car in a daze. He couldn't believe it....he had a date with Kurt Hummel.
~~>>~~>>~~>><<~~<<~~<<~~
Chapter 3 - Can I tell you a secret, Elijah?