Ah! Mwahaha! I have another chapter up - yay!


Chapter Four - Challenges:

"Final designs for collections are due in next week to meet deadlines! Photoshoots are scheduled for the week after, and mass production will commence after that. Good luck!" Kurt scrambled out of the design studio, shoving books into his bag and letting his mind wander to what was waiting for him at home.

Blaine.

The beautiful boy had followed him to New York, and despite the previous issues they'd experienced, they were back on the right track. They'd married six months ago, a private ceremony with their closest friends and family, Kurt wanting a big extravagant wedding and Blaine wanting nothing at all. Kurt had compromised with a small ceremony, and Blaine had loved every minute of it. Six months on and Blaine now worked at a small music store teaching guitar and piano lessons, as well as part time teaching at one of the local schools while working on his music degree part-time. If Kurt was lucky, Blaine would be home by the time he got there, and they could enjoy dinner together for a change. Kurt hurried through the corridors and out into the busy New York streets, breathing in the air. Winter was definitely in the air, the breeze nipping at Kurt's nose as he started to trek home. He pulled his scarf closer to his neck and took the next left, spotting their apartment block directly in front of him. Ten minutes later, he was inside the warm complex, hanging his bag by the door and heading to the lounge-room.

"I'm home!" Called Kurt, dropping onto the larger couch and flicking on the TV. Blaine joined him, curling up next to his husband.

"How was your day?" Asked Blaine.

"Two more designs to go, and then I've just got to wait and see what the verdict is at the showing. I can spend winter break with you, we can go see that movie you want to see, dinner for two, whatever you want," said Kurt, kissing Blaine's forehead.

"Lessons finish up next week. I just have to finish putting together a new tuition schedule, and then I can't wait. A break sounds nice," said Blaine quietly. Kurt's ears pricked up at the sound of a phone vibrating.

"Is that yours?" Asked Kurt. Blaine stood up, heading to the kitchen.

"Blaine speaking." It was quiet for a few moments, Kurt growing concerned at the silence. He stood up and joined his husband in the kitchen.

"What?" Blaine's phone fell from his shaking hands and hit the floor, Blaine following soon after.

"Blaine!" Kurt picked up the phone, cradling it between his ear and shoulder.

"This is Kurt, Blaine's husband. What the hell is going on?" Demanded Kurt.

"Kurt, we need Blaine at Lima Memorial Hospital. There's been an accident, and we need him here as soon as possible," said the woman on the phone.

"It'll take us a few hours to get there, if we can get a flight. Who do I ask for at the hospital if I call?" Asked Kurt.

"Natalie Carson. We'll see you when you arrive." The woman hung up without another word, and Kurt shoved the phone in his pocket.

"Blaine? Blaine, what's going on? You need to tell me what's going on," begged Kurt, pleading with his lover.

"Call Wes. Please," pleaded Blaine, voice barely a whisper. Kurt pulled Blaine's phone out of his pocket, scrolling through the contacts.

"Alright, I'm calling Wes. I promise, I'm calling Wes." Kurt selected Wes and dialled, praying he would pick up.

"You've got Wes."

"Wes, it's Kurt. Blaine needs to talk," said Kurt, worried. He handed over the phone, wondering if Blaine could still hold it with his hands shaking as badly as they were.

"Wes?" Asked Blaine, his voice childlike and small.

"God, Blaine, what happened? What's going on?" Asked Wes, concerned.

"I thought I could forget. I thought it was all over, but it's not. I need you. Please."

"I'll be there in fifteen, David in tow. Hold tight Blaine, and hand the phone back to Kurt," ordered Wes. Blaine handed the phone back to Kurt, his eyes brimming with tears as he pulled his knees to his chest.

"What on earth is going on?" Demanded Kurt.

"Listen, David and I will explain when we get there. For now, get him on the couch, wrap him up in a blanket and reassure him. I've gotta go, but I'll see you shortly." Wes hung up, and Kurt returned his focus to Blaine.

"Come on, let's get you on the lounge," whispered Kurt. He lifted the trembling Blaine to his feet and shuffled him into the lounge-room, pulling the throw off the back of the sofa and pulling it tight around the younger male.

"Can I get you something to eat? A glass of water?" Asked Kurt, reminded of the fact that it was past dinner time, and neither had eaten. Blaine glanced up at him with pain-filled eyes.

"Can you make me forget?" He asked quietly.

"Sweetie, if I could, I would. Wes and David will be here soon," promised Kurt, almost beside himself with worry. He grabbed his iPad off the coffee table, scrolling through for available flights to Lima. He found one leaving in three hours, the last one of the night, and booked two seats, paying for them with the emergency card Burt had given him. A knock at the door had Blaine trembling in his seat.

"It'll be Wes and David. I'll be back in a second," reassured Kurt. He headed for the door, and after checking it was indeed the former Warblers, opened the door.

"Thank Gaga you're here. Maybe I can get some answers now," sighed Kurt. He pointed the two males through to the living room and closed the front door.

"Blaine? What happened?" Asked Wes softly, crouching down in front of the boy, David seated to his left.

"Jennifer," replied Blaine.

"There's a restraining order on her; she's not supposed to call you. Did she?" Asked David, words harsh and biting. Blaine shook his head.

"Who is Jennifer?" Asked Kurt, confused.

"It's been four years Blaine. You haven't told Kurt?" Asked David.

"I thought it had gone away! I thought it was all over. We were broken up at the time, I didn't think it mattered. I didn't want to remember," sobbed Blaine, finally breaking down.

"God Kurt, I thought he had told you," sighed Wes.

"I can't say it," whimpered Blaine. Wes rubbed Blaine's knee soothingly, trying to reassure him.

"What happened?" Asked Kurt, beyond worried with his husband's current reaction to a phonecall. Wes and David glanced at each other, before David sighed.

"He came to a party with me and Wes. You two had just split up, he was upset, and we thought he needed to get out of his room and take a break. There was some alcohol, lots of girls, guys, food. Standard party," started David.

"Jennifer was a girl from Columbus Girls, a friend of a friend who showed up mostly for the booze. She took an interest in Blaine the moment we walked into the room, and became his shadow for the night. She followed him everywhere, always getting him a drink, making sure he had food. He explained to her twice that he was gay, and she just brushed it off," added Wes.

"We didn't realise he was missing until we couldn't find him to take him home. We found him in one of the bedrooms, pants down around his ankles, sobbing. He had bruises starting to come up around his neck and wrists, blood dripping from his nose, bite marks on his cheek." David looked upset for a brief moment, lost in the memory.

"We took him straight to the hospital, and the police met us there, thinking that he instigated the whole thing, and that he was at fault. He was almost catatonic before a doctor finally said it out loud," whispered Wes.

"He'd been raped. He'd begged and pleaded her to stop and she hadn't. He was in the hospital for two days, then they released him. The police laughed at his accusation, refusing to charge her. After my dad got involved as Blaine's lawyer, we at least got a restraining order against her, and we haven't heard from her since," finished David.

"At least, not til now. What brought this on Blaine?" Asked Wes, glancing up at Blaine.

"Sh-she's dead. Killed in a c-car accident," hiccuped Blaine.

"Isn't that a good thing?" Asked David. Blaine shook his head.

"She got pregnant. She had no parents, no living relatives, and she had a child, who is now homeless and parent-less and is going to become mine as soon as we get to Ohio. I'm not ready to become a parent, I'm not ready to face this!" Exclaimed Blaine, quickly becoming hysterical.

"It's okay, we can handle this Blaine. Everything will be fine," reassured Kurt.

"'m gonna be sick," blurted Blaine. He sprinted for the sink in the kitchen, David following.

"I had no idea. I mean, I'm angry he didn't tell me, but I understand. He may not have told you, but we applied to become foster parents six months ago, and received our approval from Joan two weeks ago. I thought we were doing okay! How did I miss this?" Asked Kurt, wringing his hands nervously.

"Blaine let you see what he wanted you to see. He's been very good at it over the years, from being sick through to having appendicitis. He's had some serious practice Kurt," said Wes with a wry smile.

"I've booked us a late flight to Lima. Are you two okay to watch him while I throw some things into a suitcase?" Asked Kurt.

"We'll be fine. Want us to watch the place while you're away?" Asked Wes.

"That would be amazing. Thank you." Kurt disappeared into the bedroom, leaving Wes and David to deal with Blaine. Blaine wandered back out into the lounge-room, looking exhausted and wrung out. David was right behind him, carrying a glass of water.

"You should have told him. I understand why you didn't, but you should have," said Wes quietly.

"I know. I know. I'm sorry," whispered Blaine.

"We're here for you, but Kurt is supposed to be your husband. You need to tell him what's going on," said David, a warm hand on Blaine's back.

"I'll explain everything to him, I promise." Kurt appeared in the doorway, and tossed a set of keys to Wes.

"Come on Blaine, we've got a plane to catch. Dad is going to meet us at the airport with Carole, and we can stay with them for as long as we need to. I want this apartment to still be in one piece when we get back, okay?" Announced Kurt.

"Crystal clear Kurt. Keep an eye on Blainers for us, and let us know if there's anything we can do," answered Wes.

"Will do. Thanks Wes. You too David. I'll call you as soon as we know anything."


Three hours later, Kurt and Blaine arrived at Dayton airport, Burt and Carole waiting for them in arrivals. Carole spotted them first, and hurried over to Blaine, pulling him close as he started to cry again. Burt wrapped an arm around his son and grabbed Kurt's bag, heading for the car park.

"I don't know how to help him Dad. We had to call Wes and David to help, and I had no idea!" Kurt glanced up at his father, and his face fell.

"You knew," said Kurt softly.

"He stayed with us for six weeks before his parents came home again from their Switzerland trip. He was a mess buddy, and he needed a temporary guardian to take him home. You were already in New York and you two weren't on good speaking terms after your fight, so we didn't tell you. It wasn't our place to tell you," responded Burt.

"Is that why Carole is walking with him?" Asked Kurt.

"Wes called to let her know what kind of state he was in. We're here for both of you, and I honestly thought he would have told you," answered Burt.

"I'm just glad you guys are here with us. I'm scared Dad," whispered Kurt.

"We'll support you as best we can bud. You know that." Burt released his son and unlocked their minivan, throwing the suitcase in the back.

"Do you want to ride up front with me? I think Blaine might need some Carole time," said Burt quietly. Kurt nodded, taking the passenger seat as Carole and Blaine took up the backseat. They travelled in silence for ten minutes before Blaine spoke.

"I'm sorry," whispered Blaine.

"Whatever for?" Asked Kurt in surprise.

"For not telling you what happened. I'm sorry," choked Blaine.

"Shh, love. It's alright. I probably would have done the same thing," admitted Kurt. Blaine buried his head against Carole's shoulder, still crying.

"Sweetie, you need to stop crying. You'll make yourself sick if you're not careful," said Carole softly. She passed Blaine a pack of tissues, and he blew his nose loudly. Burt pulled into the hospital car park and killed the engine.

"Do you want us to come in with you?" Asked Burt.

"I don't think Blaine's going to let go of Carole," admitted Kurt. Burt nodded, and the quartet headed inside the hospital, bright lights casting a harsh backdrop on the moment. Kurt walked up to the main desk, catching the attention of the nurse working there.

"Hi. My name is Kurt, and that's my husband Blaine. We had a phone call from Natalie Carson asking us to come in?" Asked Kurt.

"She's in paediatrics. I'll page her to come down," said the nurse, giving Kurt a tired smile. Kurt nodded, and waited impatiently for the woman to arrive. The elevator doors opened, and a young woman stepped out, an older woman following in her wake.

"Joan? What are you doing here?" Asked Kurt incredulously.

"I had no idea it was you two involved until just now. I flew in four hours ago as the social worker for this case as the father was in New York. I didn't put two and two together," said Joan apologetically.

"My name is Natalie, and I'm one of the floor nurses from the paediatric unit. Joan is the social worker, and is liaising with various people in the matter. How much do you know?" Asked Natalie, leading them over to a private interview room with large couches.

"Just that Jennifer was killed in an accident, and she left a child, whom you believe to be Blaine's child," said Kurt.

"There's no father on ether birth certificate for the pair of them, but Jennifer said that you were the father," said Natalie.

"So wait. It may not even be his kid?" Asked Burt angrily.

"They may not be, no. And we're talking about twins sir. Girls, if we're going to be accurate," answered Natalie.

"We have a doctor coming down to take bloods and do a DNA test, but after meeting you Blaine, they are definitely your girls," said Joan.

"Can we see them?" Asked Kurt.

"Not yet. They're in under observation for a concussion, and I promise, I'll look after them," reassured Natalie.

"You should get the DNA test done sweetie," urged Carole. Blaine looked up, finally taking in what was going on around him, and nodded.

"Okay. I'll have the DNA test."


Two hours later, Burt, Carole, Kurt and Blaine were waiting for the results to come back. Blaine had been admitted after collapsing during the blood draw, and doctors and nurses had decided he was suffering a combination of shock and low blood sugar. Blaine had curled up in the foetal position, blanket pulled to his chin, and had allowed Carole to rub his back soothingly. He glanced up when Dr Markham knocked on the doorway, and without a word, Blaine knew.

"They're mine," he whispered.

"The tests we conducted were very conclusive. The girls are very much yours," said the doctor quietly.

"Oh. Can… can we see them?" Asked Blaine.

"Of course. I'll find a nurse and a wheelchair, and we can take you up to the paediatrics ward. I assume your parents and partner will be coming with us?" Asked Dr Markham.

"Please," answered Blaine. The doctor nodded.

"I think Dr Robbins would be okay with bending the paediatric visiting rules given the circumstances. I'll sort it out with a nurse, and you can go up and see them," assured the doctor. He disappeared, and Blaine rolled over to face Carole.

"I'm so nervous," he admitted.

"It's alright to be nervous. We're all here with you, to support you. If you want to take them back to New York with you, we'll help you out as much as we can. This means we'll be grandparents," said Carole soothingly.

"We knew that we would bring a child home to our apartment at some point Blaine; it was just a matter of time. The fact that they're related to you doesn't mean we'll love them any more or any less. Joan will be coming with us to make sure the transition is smooth. We can do this honey. I know we can," said Kurt softly, leaning over to kiss Blaine's forehead.

"Knock knock. Your ride is here," called the young male nurse. Blaine sat up, hand to his head as the room started to spin and sway.

"Still dizzy?" Asked Carole.

"A little," admitted Blaine.

"Probably from laying flat. If it's still a problem in ten or fifteen minutes, I'll grab Dr Markham to come and check," said the nurse. He helped Blaine into the wheelchair, and allowed Kurt in behind the handles to push.

"I'll take you up to the paediatric floor, and Natalie will take you from there," said the nurse cheerily.

"You're awfully perky for two in the morning," remarked Blaine.

"The result of night shift and several cups of coffee. You get used to it after a while," replied the nurse. He accompanied them into the lift, and on the third floor, left them with Natalie.

"Joan's in the room with the twins. I'll take you through," said Natalie, leading the way. The other paediatric rooms were darkened, small children sleeping through the night. They turned right and entered a single room, two beds pushed near each other, Joan between the pair. Each bed had a four year old girl occupying it, each with brunette curls and dark brown eyes. Joan glanced at the two young men in the room, and smiled.

"Blaine? Kurt? I'd like you to meet Kiely and Kenzie Walker."


"They're perfect," whispered Kurt, sitting next to Kiely's bed, stroking her head.

"They're nearly four years old, both appear to be in fairly good health. Kenzie shows signs of previously fractured ribs, and Kiely appears to have suffered dislocations of both shoulders, probably by her arms being wrenched. The girls both suffered head injuries and several minor lacerations. We've kept an eye on them, and we will continue to monitor them for a few more hours before releasing them into your care," summarised Natalie.

"I can't believe I didn't know they existed," said Blaine softly, sitting on Kenzie's bed, holding her close. She'd snuggled in once she realised someone else was on the bed next to her, and had refused to let Blaine leave.

"Sweetie, Burt and I are going to duck out, grab some extra things to take them home. Do you want to stay at our place for a few days? It's almost winter break," suggested Carole.

"We'd love to. Thank you Carole," answered Blaine.

"Joan, do you know if these two had anything with them? Any toys, clothes?" Asked Carole.

"CPS and police did a sweep of the house; if we didn't know better, we wouldn't know that there were two kids living there. All they had were the clothes on their backs, and they were cut off when they got here as part of an evidence chain," answered Joan.

"We'll soon fix that," decided Carole.

"You don't have to," answered Blaine.

"But we want to sweetie, and that makes all the difference. We'll see you in an hour or so," said Carole. She kissed Blaine and Kurt on the forehead, then disappeared, Burt in tow.

"She's going to be such a good grandparent," said Blaine quietly.

"I think that was the one thing that hurt her the most after losing Finn; the realisation that she wouldn't be a grandparent. The fact you and I were willing to foster or adopt brought her hopes up, though she knew she may never see them, given the fact we live so far away," replied Kurt.

"She loves us Kurt. She'd do anything for you or me, we'd just have to ask," said Blaine quietly. His head started to droop, eyes drifting closed, and he fell asleep. Kurt smiled, continuing to stroke Kiely's hair. He watched over all three of them as they slept until morning rounds, when Natalie poked her head in carrying two takeaway coffees.

"I've brought you both coffee, and I've got to wake Kiely and Kenzie up for their observations. It could be a bit traumatic; last time we had to wake them they were both quite distraught and frightened. Joan is coming down from the fifth floor to help out," said Natalie, handing Kurt a coffee. He shook Blaine awake and handed him the hot beverage.

"Joan is a godsend. Do you know if she's met with the girls before?" Asked Kurt, taking the second coffee.

"As far as I'm aware, she's been involved with their regular social worker for a year, and has visited frequently to make sure they're okay," answered Natalie. She stood next to Kiely and roused her gently.

"Kiely? Kiely sweetie, it's time to check your head. Does it still hurt?" Asked Natalie softly. Kiely winced as she opened her eyes, then she pulled back from Natalie, pressing up against the headboard.

"Mommy, I want Mommy. Where's Charlie? I want Mommy," she pleaded, tears streaming down her cheeks. The noise woke her sister, who promptly joined in the chorus of 'Mommy.' Joan stood in the doorway, watching the two young men as they dealt with their new charges.

"Kiely, Kenzie, I know how bad you want your Mommy, but she's gone to a very special place called heaven, and she's watching over you from up there," said Kurt softly, his quiet voice capturing both their attention.

"But I want her," sniffled Kiely, looking at Kurt with some interest.

"I miss her," whispered Kenzie, glancing at Blaine, unsure as to what to think of the young man.

"Sometimes Mommy's have to leave sooner than we want them to. My mommy is up there too with all the angels, and she's asked myself and my best friend Blaine over there to look after you both," answered Kurt, pulling a tissue out of his pocket and dabbing away Kiely's tears.

"Will Mommy come back?" She whispered. Kurt shook his head, and watched as the four-year-old's face screwed up again, and she started to sob. Kurt decided to join her on the bed, and pulled her close, wrapping his arms around her, rocking her gently. He started to sing a lullaby to her, no words, just the melody, and felt her start to relax in his grasp, snuggling closer. Kenzie grabbed Blaine's shirt, and he wrapped a blanket around both of them, pulling her close.

"Who's Charlie?" Asked Kurt.

"No-one you need to worry about right now. That, however, was exceptionally well handled Kurt," commented Joan, finally entering the room.

"I remembered the things that Dad told me when Mom died. I don't know how to tell it to a four-year-old, so I just kept it as simple as I could," he replied honestly.

"I think this will definitely work out well for the pair of you. Let me know when you're heading back to New York, and I'll make arrangements to meet you there. For now though, enjoy the Christmas break together," said Joan, smiling. She waved farewell and left the four to their own devices.

"Christmas. I wonder what Christmas was like for Kiely and Kenzie?" Mused Kurt.

"I can't imagine it's been anything fun. Joan said there was nothing at the house to even indicate a child was there, so they may not have even realised it was Christmas," replied Blaine, playing with Kenzie's hair.

"Oh my god Blaine, this could be their first Christmas! We have to spend it with Burt and Carole, make it special," decided Kurt.

"You'd be perfect to do that. You're so good at organising things," said Blaine softly.

"We're back, and we've bought presents," said Carole happily, arms laden with bags as she and Burt reappeared in the doorway.

"When can they come home?" Asked Burt.

"Hopefully in a few hours. We still need to keep watching them for any further signs of disorientation, but Natalie seemed pleased," replied Kurt. He disentangled himself from Kiely and stood up, stretching.

"What have you got in those bags?" He asked.

"Enough outfits for their stay in Lima. I don't know what you two plan on doing with them, but I'm hoping you'll be here for Christmas," said Carole hopefully.

"We'd love to be here for Christmas. Blaine and I were talking, and we're not sure if the girls have ever had a Christmas before. A decent one at least. Christmas is in two weeks Carole, and I'd really like to give them something to remember," said Kurt excitedly.

"Honey, I'd love to help you out with that," smiled Carole.

"Kurt, we got a few other things as well. We've set up Finn's old room as a room for the girls. It's right next door to yours so you can hear them if they need you, and you can stay with us for as long as you need buddy," said Burt gruffly. Kurt embraced his father tightly.

"Thank you. Thank you so much," whispered Kurt. Natalie stepped into the room, smiling at the pair.

"I've got discharge papers for Kiely and Kenzie. You're welcome to take them home, as long as they're under Carole's supervision for the next forty-eight hours. You've been given special permission due to Carole being a nurse. You remember what to look for Carole?" Asked Natalie.

"It's been a while since I've worked paeds, but I'm pretty sure I'll be okay," reassured Carole.

"Fantastic. I'll let you sort yourself out, and then I'll walk down with you," said Natalie. She disappeared, leaving Kurt and Blaine to glance at each other.

"We have nothing for them, and we're about to take them home," whispered Blaine.

"We've got Carole and Dad. We'll be okay," reassured Kurt. He opened up one of the bags and pulled out two pairs of tiny jeans.

"Oh my Gaga these are adorable!" Exclaimed Kurt, fawning over the articles of clothing.

"What else did you bring?" Blaine asked Carole.

"With me? A going home outfit for each of them. I went with the standard pink theme for them for now, and if they do like particular colors, then we can exchange everything else we've bought for the right colors. For each of them to go home in is a pair of jeans, white shirt, pink sweatshirt, scarf, shoes, socks and underwear. It's quite cold outside today; I wouldn't be surprised if it starts snowing," answered Carole. Blaine shook Kenzie gently.

"Kenzie, sweetie, wake up. We're going home," said Blaine softly. Kurt was rousing Kiely as Kenzie woke up.

"No home," she replied, shaking her head.

"Why not?" Asked Blaine.

"Bad man. Bad man," trembled Kenzie.

"No no, not back there. Home with Kurt and I," answered Blaine. Kenzie nodded, then glanced at Carole and Burt.

"Who they?" She asked shyly.

"Burt? Carole? How do you want to be introduced?" Asked Blaine.

"Grammy and Grandpa," she responded quickly.

"This is your Grammy and Grandpa. We're going to stay with them for a few weeks and have Christmas with them before flying back to where Kurt and I live," responded Blaine.

"What's Christmas?" Asked Kiely. Kurt could have sworn his stepmother melted at the questions.

"It's a very exciting time of year, and you'll get to learn all about it in the next few weeks. For now though, time for little girls to get dressed to go home," said Carole, putting a bag of clothes on each girls bed. They eagerly nodded, allowing Kurt and Blaine to help them dress.

"Are we ready to go?" Asked Burt.

"Looks like. Let's go find Natalie and get out of here," replied Carole. The young family traipsed out the door, and Natalie smiled.

"Looks like you two are excited to go home! Joan said she'll call you in a few days, just to see how you're going," said Natalie. She walked them to the lift, pressing the down button. Kurt was holding Kiely, Blaine holding Kenzie.

"Home, home, home," whispered Kenzie against Blaine's shirt.

"What was that?" He asked.

"Home," she whimpered again.

"It's okay. Grammy and Grandpa's place is very different to where you and Mommy lived," reassured Blaine. Kenzie pulled his shirt a little tighter, and Blaine rubbed a comforting hand down her back.

"You're okay," he whispered. The elevator opened on the ground floor, and they headed for the carpark, Burt leading the way, Carole bringing up the rear. Burt opened up the back of the minivan, and helped Kurt and Kiely into the back, before allowing Blaine and Kenzie in the middle. He closed the door and turned around, coming face to face with Carole.

"You know Burt Hummel, I'm reminded of how much I love you right now," said Carole, kissing Burt on the nose. He smiled and gave her a brief hug before heading for the drivers side. He started the engine and pulled out of the carpark, heading home. A light snow had fallen overnight, coating the ground in a white dust, not enough to play in yet, but enough to make the scenery picture perfect. After twenty minutes, Burt pulled into the driveway of the Hudson-Hummel residence.

"This is Grammy and Grandpa's house," said Carole excitedly.

"I'm hungry," announced Kiely from the back. Burt got out and started to help them out of the car.

"Well then, we better sort that out! Miss Kiely, do you have a favorite food?" Asked Carole, taking the young girl from Kurt.

"Pancakes," she said decisively.

"Well, I think you're extra lucky to have Kurt because he makes amazing pancakes! What about you Miss Kenzie, are you hungry?" Asked Carole. Kenzie shook her head.

"Head hurts," she whispered.

"We'll get you something for the pain when we get you inside," said Carole quietly. Blaine hoisted her out of the car and followed Burt and Carole inside.

"Put Kenzie on the couch, put on a DVD and I'll bring her in some pain relief. Kurt, do you want to start on a batch of pancakes for the little miss here?" Said Carole.

"I'll be in the kitchen," replied Kurt, grinning. Carole followed, and put Kiely on one of the kitchen chairs.

"Stay here with Grandpa, and Kurt will whip you up some pancakes really quick, okay?" Kiely nodded enthusiastically. Carole smiled at her and headed out of the kitchen. She picked up a bucket from the laundry, then headed upstairs to the bathroom. She grabbed the fresh bottle of children's Tylenol out of the cupboard, then retrieved one of the new pink blankets and a clean pair of pyjama's from the twins room, before heading into Kurt's room to grab the one DVD she suspected a little girl would love to watch. Armed with her new supplies, Carole headed back downstairs to the living room, where Kenzie was lying on her side on the couch, looking pale.

"Hey sweetie. Are you not feeling well?" Asked Carole softly. Kenzie shook her head.

"Alright. Blaine and I are going to help you get into some pyjama's, then you can cuddle with Blaine on the couch and watch a DVD that I'm sure you will love," said Carole quietly. She helped Kenzie off the lounge and peeled off her day clothes, before helping her into the new pair of soft pyjamas.

"Here is some Tylenol to make your headache go away," said Carole, offering Kenzie the medication. She swallowed it, grimacing at the taste.

"Hop up on the couch with Blaine, and I'll put this blanket over you. Come on," encouraged Carole. Kenzie laid down, head on Blaine's lap, and Carole covered her with the soft blanket.

"There's a bucket here if you need to throw up, okay? I'll put the DVD on for you," said Carole softly. She put on Frozen for the tired child, knowing that she'd probably fall asleep after the first ten minutes.

"I'll make sure Kurt saves some pancakes for you," said Carol softly. Blaine nodded, stroking Kenzie's hair.

"Thanks Carole," he smiled. Carole returned to the kitchen, finding Kiely giggling at the dining table, maple syrup smeared on her face.

"Pancakes!" Squealed Kiely.

"I can see what breakfast is going to look like from now on," said Kurt, stacking another three pancakes on the table.

"Kenzie's on the lounge with Blaine; they're watching Frozen," reported Carole.

"I'll take him something to eat shortly," said Kurt.

"You could swap with him? You've cooked enough pancakes to feed an army, and you've not had a chance to spend any time with Kenzie yet," suggested Burt. Kurt nodded.

"I'll go swap. Behave Miss Kiely," said Kurt in mock seriousness, kissing her sticky forehead. She giggled, and accidentally flicked part of her pancake on to the floor. She looked a Kurt in horror before trying to escape from the table, knocking over her glass of juice and flinging the plate to the floor where it shattered.

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry," she whimpered, cowering away from the adults in the room. Blaine skidded in, alerted by the noise.

"No hit, no hit," she pleaded. Blaine walked over to her slowly and scooped her up, holding her close.

"We don't hit sweetie. It was an accident, and not your fault. Now, we should get you cleaned up, and you can sit on the lounge with Kenzie and I and watch a movie," suggested Blaine, rocking her gently. She whimpered before bursting into tears, clutching Blaine tightly.

"I'll run a bath for her," said Carole softly, exiting the kitchen. Kurt glanced at Blaine, and motioned towards the living room.

"I'll be with Kenzie," said Kurt softly. Blaine nodded, continuing to rock Kiely. He walked with her up the stairs and into the large bathroom, where Carole had laid out clean pyjamas and a fluffy towel.

"Let's get you cleaned up," said Blaine quietly. He stripped her down and placed her in the warm water, grabbing a flannel and wiping down her face. He hummed quietly, soothing the young girl as he slowly removed the sticky residue and remains of her meal off her. Once she was clean he drained the water from the tub and wrapped her in a towel, drying her off.

"Into some new pyjamas, and we can sit downstairs and watch the movie with Kenzie."


"It's not even day one and I'm exhausted," said Kurt later that evening. Kiely and Kenzie were tucked into bed, fast asleep, and Kurt and Blaine were sitting in the lounge-room with Burt and Carole.

"They're certainly special," said Carole.

"They are, but I still can't believe they're ours," commented Blaine.

"Let us know when you're deciding to go back to New York, and we'll come with you to help set up the apartment, make sure you're settled," said Burt.

"We can't ask you to do that Dad. It may not even work to uproot the girls and take them to New York," answered Kurt.

"You can ask, and I will do it anyway, whether it be here in Lima or New York. They're my grand babies now too, and I want to make sure that they're spoilt rotten," replied Burt. Blaine yawned before snuggling against Kurt.

"We need to ring Wes and David in the morning, let them know what's going on, and find out if someone can look after the apartment during Christmas," sighed Blaine.

"Christmas; we probably need to work out what we're going to do as a family," said Carole.

"Hudson-Hummel Christmas sounds great," answered Blaine.

"Puck is coming with Quinn and Beth this year; it's their first Christmas together, and Puck's parents didn't want to see him. I think Sam might be coming over in the afternoon as well, so it'll be a full house," replied Carole.

"Sounds like fun. I'll help you with baking if you'd like," said Kurt.

"I can help out at the garage, or setting up decorations," said Blaine sleepily.

"Come on, discussions can wait until tomorrow. Let's get some sleep," whispered Kurt. Burt and Carole nodded to the pair as they headed up to bed, finally content to cuddle under the warm blankets.

"Can you check on them? Make sure they're okay?" Pleaded Blaine sleepily.

"Of course." Kurt kissed him on the cheek before stepping out of the bedroom and down the hall. He pushed the twins bedroom door open a little. Both girls were fast asleep, curled up tight in their beds. Kurt smiled, before heading back to his room. He snuggled in beside Blaine before falling asleep.


"Mommy! Mommy!" Screamed a little voice, terrified. Kurt and Blaine shot out of bed and stumbled straight to the twins room, Carole and Burt not far behind. Kenzie was the one screaming, and Blaine went straight to her, trying to soothe her. Carole instantly spotted what was wrong, and moved to assist.

"Burt, call an ambulance now, tell them Kiely's having a seizure," ordered Carole, crossing the room to roll the seizing child into the recovery position.

"She's only four Carole. How can she be having a seizure?" Asked Kurt, his voice higher than usual.

"Could be a result of the concussion, or an underlying condition we don't know about. Come here honey, I'm going to need you to time it, and reassure her," said Carole softly. Kurt kneeled next to the tiny girl, glancing at the wall clock as the seizure continued. To him, it seemed to go on forever, and Carole didn't seem to be doing anything.

"You're okay Kiely, you'll be okay, it'll be okay," reassured Kurt. The trembling started to wane, and tense muscles started to relax.

"How long was it Kurt?" Asked Carole.

"Nearly three minutes," replied Kurt. Burt rushed back into to the room.

"Ambulance should be here in five minutes," he said quickly, then bolted back down the stairs to let them in .

"Leave her in the recovery position until the paramedics have looked her over," said Carole. Kurt stroked back Kiely's damp hair as they waited. Finally, Kurt heard the heavy footsteps coming up the stairs just as Kiely tensed again, seizing.

"Oh god Carole," whispered Kurt. The paramedics pushed in.

"How long?" Asked the female.

"First seizure was just under three minutes, this one has just started, and so far is around thirty seconds," reported Carole.

"Are you okay to travel with us in the ambulance? We'll take her straight to Lima Memorial," asked the male paramedic.

"Not a problem. Burt, will you bring the boys and Kenzie with you?" Asked Carole. Burt nodded.

"Alright, let's get her seizures settled, and we can answer a few more questions along the way. Let's go," ordered the female paramedic, dosing Kiely up on an anti-convulsant.

"Kurt, you need to call Joan, let her know what's going on. I'll see you when you get to Lima Memorial," said Carole, grabbing Kiely's blanket off her bed and following the paramedics out. Kurt grabbed Kenzie's blanket and ushered Blaine downstairs.

"I'll grab your shoes and your phone," he said quietly. He disappeared into their closet, grabbing the nearest pair of shoes he could find, as well as a sweater. He ducked back into Kiely and Kenzie's room and grabbed both tiny pairs of ugg boots for the twins, as well as the two stuffed dogs. He remembered being in hospital at a young age and wishing for the comfort of a stuffed animal. He shoved all the extras into a satchel bag from the back of his door and headed down stairs, finding Blaine seated on the couch, Kenzie on his lap.

"Kurt," murmured Blaine, concern etched on his face.

"What?"

"Kenzie's wheezing," answered Blaine quietly. Kurt hunkered down in front of them.

"What's wrong sweetie?" Asked Kurt.

"Can't… breathe…" she gasped.

"Get in the car. We'll get her help as soon as we get to the hospital. Keep her warm and rugged up, and I'll make sure she gets seen," said Burt quickly. Kurt slipped the pink ugg boots onto Kenzie's feet, and wrapped her blanket around her. He handed her the stuffed dog, and she clutched it tightly to her chest. They headed out the door and into the van, Burt locking up behind them. Blaine and Kenzie sat in the back, Kurt up the the front with his father.

"We've not even had them for twenty-four hours and something like this happens?" He stated.

"Kids get sick Kurt, you know that. You also know that we didn't get a very accurate history for either of the twins in the handover, because Jennifer didn't take her children to the doctor. We'll get them a full work-up this time around Kurt," said Blaine decisively. The trip passed in no time, and they found themselves at the same hospital they'd left over twelve hours ago. Blaine picked up Kenzie, drawing her close, and Joan met them in the waiting room.

"I got your message Kurt. Kiely's been taken straight up to paeds with a neuro consult, Carole's still with her. Natalie will be here in two seconds with admission papers for Kenzie, and we'll take her up to the same ward and have a respiratory specialist check her over. When that's done, I really need to see both of you urgently," said Joan. Kurt nodded, and spotted Natalie wending her way toward them.

"Hi guys, hey Kenzie. Not feeling so good, hey?" She asked. Kenzie shook her head, barely able to lift it from Blaine's shoulder.

"Alright sweetie, let's get you up to paeds. You've got a new fluffy friend! Does he have a name?" Asked Natalie, swiping them in through the double doors. Kenzie shook her head, still clutching the fuzzy dog tightly.

"That's okay. He can stay with you while we get you sorted out," assured Natalie. She led them up to the ward and into the same room as Kiely and Carole.

"They've given her some medication to reduce the seizures, and we're waiting on a neuro consult," said Carole quietly. Natalie motioned for Blaine to put Kenzie on the second bed, and sat her upright, putting an oxygen mask on her face.

"Normally we don't room paeds cases together, but Dr Robbins decided that it would be in the best interest of the twins to keep them together," commented Natalie.

"Thank you," whispered Blaine. A male doctor knocked on the door and entered.

"Hi. I'm Dr Hughes, one of the neurologists on call tonight. I'm going to take Kiely up for an MRI, see what's going on," said Dr Hughes warmly.

"What happens then?" Asked Kurt.

"If it's a bleed on the brain, we do surgery to release the pressure. If it's a case of damaged pathways, we look at ways of treatment. There are a lot of possibilities, and we won't know what we're looking at until we've got the results of the MRI," said Dr Hughes. He motioned for an orderly to come in, and they wheeled Kiely's bed out of the paediatric unit and down the hall.

"We might be a little while. If you don't want to wait in here, there are several family waiting rooms down the hall where you can wait," suggested Dr Hughes. Carole nodded as s second doctor came in.

"I'm Dr Beaumont, the respiratory specialist. I hear somebody's having a hard time breathing," she said, crossing over to Kenzie's bed. Kenzie nodded, still wheezing heavily. Dr Beaumont put on her stethoscope on and listened to Kenzie's lungs.

"Sounds like a standard case of asthma to me. Put her on a nebuliser round, and we'll come in and see how she's going in an hour. She's probably going to be drowsy," warned Dr Beaumont. Blaine nodded, and Natalie set to work assembling the nebuliser, before putting the contraption onto Kenzie's face.

"This will help you breathe better," reassured Natalie. Kenzie nodded, and gripped Blaine's hand. After a harrowing few minutes, her breathing started to ease up, and she started to relax. Blaine helped her lay back, and Natalie made sure she was propped up to enable her to still breathe.

"She'll be able to sleep now," said Kurt quietly.

"Kurt? Blaine? Kiely won't be back for half an hour. Could I speak with you?" Asked Joan. Kurt glanced at Carole and Burt.

"We'll stay with Kenzie, and if Kiely comes back and you're not finished, then we'll comfort her too Kurt," said Carole softly, moving to take Blaine's position next to Kenzie. Kurt took Blaine's hand and followed Joan out into the hallway. She put a finger to her lips, then led the two young men to the paediatric ICU.

"Joan, what are we doing here?" Asked Kurt softly.

"You can say no, but we've had a change in events," said Joan cryptically.

"What sort of change?" Asked Blaine, gripping Kurt's hand tightly.

"We found Charlie. He's Kiely and Kenzie's half brother, and he's two. Right now he's in bed four with a internal bleeding, a broken arm and a broken leg," said Joan.

"What on earth happened?" Asked Kurt, shocked.

"The father found out he wouldn't be getting custody of the twins, and was quite upset, and took it out on Charlie. We didn't know that Charlie was still there; he used to stay in a foster home. What we didn't know is that the foster home had dropped him home early as they had their own family emergency. He was supposed to stay in emergency foster care until temporary guardians had been appointed," said Joan.

"What are you asking exactly?" Asked Blaine bluntly, tired.

"If you would be willing to keep these three kids together, CPS is happy to work out some sort of extra government payment for you to help keep them together. Most foster parents won't take on a family, let alone one with a child like Charlie," said Joan sadly.

"What do you mean 'a child like Charlie'?" Asked Kurt.

"He's been diagnosed as autistic. He's been abusive towards the three foster families he's been placed with, and we're at a wits end. At this rate he's going to end up in a boys home, or a special care facility," said Joan, rubbing her temples wearily.

"Do we have to have an answer now?" Asked Kurt.

"Oh goodness, no. You're allowed some time to think about it. He should be ready to go home around Christmas, barring any complications," answered Joan. Kurt looked at Blaine.

"I think we need to talk to Dad and Carole, find out what they think," said Kurt quietly.

"I agree. I'd love to be able to say yes now Joan, but so much has happened in the past twenty-four hours," answered Blaine honestly.

"That's quite alright. I need to show you before I even asked you," admitted Joan. Kurt crept past the curtained cubicles until he came to bed four.

"Oh god," he whispered, hand coming to his mouth. The young boy was clearly malnourished and had been heavily beaten by his father. His left arm was encased in a cast as was his right leg, and his right hand had an IV drip in it, keeping him alive and nourished. A nurse had been assigned to sit with him at all times. The current nurse noticed the trio, and stood up, extending a hand towards Blaine and Kurt.

"You must be Kurt and Blaine. Joan has told me a lot about the both of you. My name is Sarah, and I'm a paediatric ICU nurse. I've been assigned to Charlie for the duration of his stay," she said warmly.

"How's he going Sarah?" Asked Joan.

"He's improving slowly. We've got him sedated at the moment so we can let his bruises heal a little, and he is quite upset by the change of surroundings. We're due to lower his sedation in the next few days once we've got the all clear from his doctor," replied Sarah.

"We have to go and talk to Dad and Carole," said Kurt urgently.

"You can bring them back here to see him if you'd like," suggested Joan.

"I might bring Carole back; she's got the most nursing experience out of all us, and she can tell us if this is even possible," answered Kurt. He pulled Blaine out of the PICU and down the hall, back to Kiely and Kenzie's room. Kiely had not yet returned in the time they'd been gone.

"Honey? What happened?" Asked Carole.

"They have a brother," he answered, taking a seat.

"What?" Asked Burt incredulously.

"They have a little brother that slipped through CPS cracks. He's been beaten black and blue, has a broken arm and leg, and to top it off, is autistic," filled in Blaine.

"How can I say no to that? He's so tiny Carole, so sick. How can I break up a family like that?" Asked Kurt, his head in his hands.

"It's a big ask kiddo, but if you think you can do it, you have the support of Carole and I. We'll help you do whatever is necessary to help you boys out," answered Burt. He opened his mouth to say something further when Dr Hughes entered the room, Kiely's bed being pushed by another nurse.

"What happened? What did you find?" Asked Blaine.

"First of all, there is no sign of active bleeding on the brain, or increased intracranial pressure. We did find a section of brain that is causing the seizure, and it appears it has been damaged in a previous concussion," stated Dr Hughes.

"She's had more than one concussion before?" Asked Carole. Dr Hughes nodded soberly.

"There is quite a bit of damage in her brain. Some has resolved itself and built new pathways around the damaged areas, but in one case, it hasn't, so her brain short circuits, causing the seizures. She'll most likely have seizures for the rest of her life, but they can be managed with medication," said Dr Hughes.

"They'll show you how to manage her condition, and what to do, and what to look out for," added Carole, spotting the concerned looks on the boys faces.

"I'd like to keep her in for a few hours, make sure that there are no adverse side effects from the medication," said Dr Hughes. Blaine sighed and nodded.

"Thank you Dr Hughes," he replied. Kurt buried his head in his hands, despair evident in his body language.

"Kurt? Blaine? We've assigned a parents room to you and your parents to allow you to get some rest. Normally we wouldn't allow it, but given the trying circumstances, we're hoping to give you some time to rest," said Natalie, entering the room.

"What about Burt and Carole?" Asked Blaine.

"We'll be fine here bud. We'll come wake you up in a few hours and trade off," suggested Burt.

"Dr Beaumont called to let me know she'll be down in a few minutes, but I can put her off until tomorrow morning if you'd like," added Natalie.

"Please. I think I need to lie down," said Kurt suddenly. Natalie nodded, and led them down the hall to a parents room, a sofa bed pulled out for them. Kurt kicked off his shoes and lay down immediately. Blaine thanked Natalie before joining Kurt on the bed.

"Kurt? Are you okay?" Asked Blaine.

"How could someone do that to a child?" He exclaimed, tears in his eyes. Blaine pulled him close, holding him tight as Kurt started to cry.

"Shh. This is why we wanted to become foster parents, so we could save a child from that kind of horror. Now we've got two, possibly three children coming to live with us, to give a better chance to them, to nurture them and love them Kurt. That's something we've always wanted to do, and we knew that there could be some setbacks, some changes, some things we can't control. Kiely having epilepsy or Kenzie having asthma or Charlie having autism doesn't mean we'll love them any less; if anything, we'll probably love them more," said Blaine quietly.

"We have to take him Blaine. We can't separate him from his sisters, that would be cruel," sobbed Kurt.

"I know. We'll get some sleep, and then we can talk about it then."