Sorry I took so long getting this chapter out to you I kind of carried away with it and also had to continuously run errands for my family all weekend _
Anyway I hope you enjoy it, I was glad to finally write all of this cos it has been in my head for ages now.
Chapter 10: Revealing Secrets
Kurt and Blaine took a rushed shower, washing away all the evidence from the previous night (although Kurt's sheets were ruined) and were about to head out the door not even considering food at this moment.
"I'll call Rachel," Kurt announced finding his phone amongst a pile of crushed oreo's in the kitchen.
Just as Kurt heard the phone ring soundly in his ear the shrill tone of defying gravity sung through the air causing some of the loose bodies in the living room to stir. Confused Kurt followed the sound only to find the girl in question sprawled out on the couch fast asleep with Finn just below her on the ground. Immediately Kurt hung up and stepped over the sleeping masses that were occupying the floor, including his step brother and shook Rachel.
"Rachel wake up," Kurt demanded.
Rachel blinked lightly still groggy from sleep, only when Kurt shook her again rapidly did she sit up.
"Oh my God, Kurt what's wrong? Did Vocal Adrenaline beat us?" Rachel gushed still half asleep.
"Ah no Rachel, I need you to get up I need to talk to you," Kurt said quirking an eyebrow.
"Is it about Finn?" Rachel asked seriously slurring her words slightly.
"God Rachel are you still drunk?"
"What Kurt don't be stupid I never drank any alcohol," Rachel laughed lightly rising from the couch and stumbling slightly. "Okay maybe I am a little dizzy."
"Kurt don't worry about it," Blaine's sad voice said from behind him. "I can find some other way–"
"No!" Kurt said firmly, slapping against Rachel's cheek slightly.
"Ow! Kurt that hurts!" Rachel whined rubbing her now red cheek.
"Well I need you to sober up!" Kurt snapped dragging the girl into the kitchen and forcing her into a stool. Irritated Kurt quickly rushed around the kitchen pushing various messes aside making Rachel a coffee to go. "Here drink this."
Rachel eyed the cup suspiciously before taking a small sip, her eyes lighting up a little.
"She'll be fine by the time we get to your place," Kurt said confidently. "I'll explain everything to her along the way."
"Kurt I'm not sure about this…" Blaine began.
"Blaine, you practically begged me to keep this secret for you, now what kind of boyfriend would I be if I didn't intend to make good on my promise?" Kurt smiled leaning into to kiss his boyfriend chastely on the lips, Blaine returned a sad smile.
"Now come on we have our asses to cover," Kurt grabbed hold of Rachel's hand and was out the door in a flash.
…
"Are you sure this is going to work?" Rachel asked for the what felt like the thousandth time.
"Yes," Kurt said confidently. "Rachel you were a born performer, now go… perform."
"I'm with Rachel Kurt," Blaine admitted from the driver's seat. "I don't know if I can act to like her–"
"Well thanks," Rachel interjected sourly. "You know Kurt I don't really see what you like about him."
"Rachel, there will be no hating on my boyfriend now go do me a favour and pretend to be his girlfriend… think of what your Dad's would do."
"My Dad's would have stood proudly in front of their parents and told them the truth!" Rachel sniffed.
"Well were your Dad's parents crazed homophobes?" Blaine said bitterly.
Looking away awkwardly Rachel shook her head.
"Fine, let's do this!" Rachel said with a stiff nod.
Leaving Kurt alone in the car Blaine and Rachel headed toward the house hand in hand attempting to look as though they had just come from a big night out and were very much in love. Kurt hoped the worst Blaine would have to deal with was a minor grounding for his adolescent behaviour.
Kurt and Blaine had devised a plan that Rachel was indeed Blaine's girlfriend ever since before the wedding and that he hadn't brought her home again because her parents were very religious. When Blaine asked the question what his father would say about the fact that Blaine never talks about her, Kurt simply told him to say that they decided to keep it all a secret. Kurt couldn't lie, he was definitely inspired by their own relationship.
Once all the introductory's were out of the way Rachel would text Kurt, queuing him in to come and knock on the door ready to pick Blaine up for a 'hunting trip' (it was the most manly thing he could think of). If Blaine's father questioned him, he would laugh it off and say he had his own girlfriend and show a picture of Kurt and Mercedes, with Kurt kissing her on the cheek. At the time Kurt had been proud of his magnificent plan, burying deep his own annoyed and insecure feelings of how Blaine was hiding him from his father, however as he waited patiently in the car he couldn't help the fear from surfacing.
What if the plan fails? What if Blaine's Dad finds out everything and hurts him? Sliding down further in his chair, Kurt tossed his phone over in his fingers desperate to contact Blaine but knowing that he couldn't was suffocating. How could such a wonderful night and what was meant to be a just as wonderful day be ruined in a few short seconds? I wish people could mind their own business, Kurt thought sourly of the co worker.
Thankfully he didn't have too wait too long before Rachel texted him, telling him to commence phase two of the plan. Kurt was out of the car in an instant and knocking on the front door. As suspected Frank answered the door a filthy snare crossing his features.
"What are you doing here?" the man snarled at the frightened Kurt.
Kurt quickly tried to shrug it off and composed himself.
"I am supposed to be picking Blaine up. He, Wes, David and I are all going hunting for the day," Kurt replied squeakily.
Frank eyed him curiously when Kurt remembered that he forgot to use his 'manly' voice. Internally face palming Kurt had to quickly save himself.
"Unless he didn't ask, then it's okay I'll just go…" Kurt coughed lightly layering on his deep voice.
"No, it's fine. Come inside, I wouldn't mind having a word."
Kurt followed Frank wordlessly into the house the fear practically rolling off of him. He passed by Lindsay who was in the kitchen watching silently from afar, fear set in her eyes. Frank led him into the lounge room where Blaine and Rachel were huddled together looking very convincing as a couple, Rachel going as far to occasionally stroke Blaine's hair or rub soothing circles on the back of his palm.
"Take a seat Kurt," Frank commanded powerfully.
Kurt did as he was asked taking a seat in one of the arm chairs nearest to Rachel.
"So Kurt… a colleague of mine said they saw you kissing my boy? Is that true?" Frank's question was so direct so cold it made Kurt freeze in fear momentarily.
"What? No! I have a girlfriend!" Kurt practically yelled after recomposing himself and putting on his best disgusted looking face.
"I find it very convenient that both you and Blaine suddenly have these girlfriends I have never even heard about," Frank said icily taking a sip from his black coffee.
"With all due respect sir, I am not your son so I feel no need to tell you about my personal life," Kurt replied just as coldly. "As for your son, him and Rachel have been dating for as long as I have known him so I was only left to assume you knew about them."
"We kept it a secret, my parents a very religious," Rachel stated, which was probably for at least the tenth time from the way Frank was staring at her.
"Why would my colleague lie?" Frank asked rising threateningly from his chair.
"Dad they had to have seen someone else! I haven't seen Kurt all this week," Blaine defended letting go of Rachel and too stepping out of his seat.
Frank gave his son, as well as his friends one long last unconvinced stare.
"Fine, Andrew's sight is getting a little… skewed. Just don't… scare me like that Blaine, you know what I think of those filthy queers!" Rachel and Kurt both flinched at the slur but Frank didn't seem to notice. "If my son was… they are nothing but wastes of space Blaine! If I as much as hear you step foot next to one of them so help me…"
If Blaine was going to cry he hid it very well. Kurt wanted to yell at Frank call him every offensive name he could think of, to make him feel just how hurtful he was being. However the desire to hurt Frank was nothing compared to the fear the man made Kurt feel.
Frank gave his son one last threatening look before retreating to the kitchen, Lindsay fetching him some toast in an instant.
"Are you okay?" Rachel whispered, making her way over to Blaine hugging him comfortingly.
Kurt wished he could be the one to comfort him but he knew better then to undo all their hard work, simply so he could just feel his boyfriend next to him.
"No," Blaine whispered crying into Rachel's shoulder his sad hazel eyes locked on Kurt.
Kurt gave him a sad smile as if to silently tell him everything was going to be okay, even if he knew deep down it wasn't.
"Blaine are you going to get some breakfast before you go on your hunting trip?" Frank called out none the wiser of the psychological harm he had just caused to his son.
Wiping away his hot tears, Blaine let go of Rachel and headed into the kitchen. Rachel watched him sadly as he left, turning back to Kurt in an instant.
"How are you feeling?" Rachel asked kneeling beside him in the chair.
"Just another day in the life of Kurt Hummel," Kurt joked bitterly.
"Kurt I'm sure everything will work out…" Rachel said uncertainly placing a fragile hand over his knee.
"You heard him Rachel, I am fairly sure that man would rather see me dead then holding his son's hand," Kurt said, eyes misty. "I just wish… why us? Why do we always have to be the ones putting up with so much shit? Why is our love so wrong?"
"I don't know," Rachel whispered.
Kurt wiped at some of the tears angrily stopping them in his tracks when Rachel pulled him into a fierce hug.
"You'll find a way Kurt, love always does," Rachel assured him.
"Thanks Rachel," Kurt gave her a watery smile. "So how exactly did everything go down anyway?"
"Well," Rachel began in frantic whispers, obviously making sure Frank didn't hear. "When we first stepped through the door Frank looked like he was going to hit Blaine, it was so scary. When he saw me hanging off his arm it kind of sidetracked him making him stop and question everything that was going on. There was a lot of yelling and Blaine fought against him trying to prove he was… well let's just say Kurt it didn't mean anything."
"What didn't mean anything?" Kurt asked narrowing his eyes at his friend.
"Well it was kind of a heated argument so Blaine kind of kissed me, very roughly I might add to show Frank we were together," Rachel admitted sheepishly, but Kurt just laughed.
"Rachel I highly doubt one small kiss with a girl will be a major factor in our relationship."
"Well I wasn't to know… it mattered with Finn."
"That's because you did it to hurt Finn," Kurt pointed out bitterness flying off his tongue, sympathy for his brother kicking in.
"Yes well, he hurt me first," Rachel defended. "Anyway, after that… Frank still needed some convincing so Blaine and him yelled some more and soon enough Frank cooled down enough to make himself a coffee, which after that I text you so you could further the point with the you 'having a girlfriend' scenario."
"Hey guys did you want something to eat?" Lindsay's small voice came from the door way, startling them both. "I think Frank has calmed down enough to act civilised."
Kurt's stomach protested at the very thought of food right now, still extremely hungover.
"We're right thanks Lindsay, I think I'll just wait for Blaine to finish up," Kurt answered on behalf of both of them.
Lindsay gave a small nod and retreated back out the door, Kurt's suspicious eyes were on Rachel in an instant.
"Speaking of Finn," Kurt began remembering all to well how he found Rachel this morning."What exactly went down between you two last night?"
"I'm sure it was nothing like your and Blaine's night," Rachel teased. "We just talked mainly."
"Mainly?" Kurt asked ignoring Rachel's first comment as the heat rushed to his cheeks.
"Well there may have been some drunk kissing involved, but I know better then to get my hopes up. Finn won't want me when he wakes up." Rachel looked away sadly, so Kurt returned the comforting gesture by placing his hand on her shoulder.
"He still cares a lot about you Rachel, I see it in his eyes when he talks about you."
"He wants Quinn, not me."
"Have a little faith the boy is probably just going through a slutty stage in his life," Kurt shrugged receiving a small smile from the brunette.
"Thanks Kurt, you re–"
Whatever else Rachel was going to say was cut off by the loud thunderous voice of Frank and Blaine storming into the lounge room a few seconds later.
"I'm just telling you now Blaine, one day he is going to come out to you and–"
"And what Dad?" Blaine snapped. "You expect me to kill him or something?"
"Don't be foolish Blaine!"
"Well to me that is what it sounds like you are implying!" Blaine's expression was completely consumed by rage as he glared threateningly into his fathers eyes. "He's my friend! I don't go around making snap judgements about your friends assuming they're all gay! Which really asks the question, so what? Does it matter who he loves, love is just love!"
"Look at him, the way he holds himself and dresses… Blaine it's not right! They aren't right!" Frank glared at Kurt, making the boys heart drop now realising the subject at hand.
"Kurt has good taste in fashion! And he is polite," Blaine replied hotly.
"That's every gay man! I forbid you to hang around him any longer he could–"
"What Dad? Make me turn gay?"
"That's not what I was going to say!" Frank bellowed taking a step toward his son, a fist clenched menacingly by his side.
"You know what Dad, when you can come to me and tell me fifty good reasons why homosexuals are wrong maybe then I'll be ready to listen to your fucked up ways!" Blaine moved toward Rachel pulling her up from the floor, having a silent eye conversation with Kurt saying it was time to leave.
"Don't you dare speak to me that way boy!"
"I can do whatever the fuck I want!" Blaine yelled pulling Rachel along with him, Kurt hot at their heels as he stormed from the house.
They heard one last call of Blaine's name as the wooden door slammed behind them. In one quick motion Rachel was out of Blaine's arms, and the boy was now sobbing into Kurt's shoulder.
"Blaine it's gong to be fine," Kurt cooed rubbing affectionate circles on Blaine's back.
"He's going to kill me!" Blaine cried.
"No he isn't, though he may if we don't get to the car."
Quickly all three of the trekked back to the car, Kurt and Blaine hopping in the back seat and Rachel driving. Blaine continued to clutch on to Kurt tightly crying continuously as Rachel backed out of the driveway and headed back for the Hummel's. Kurt stroked his hair affectionately letting Blaine just feel that he was here for him and wasn't going anywhere, even though the boy held on to him as though he may disappear any second.
"Kurt… I am so sorry," Blaine cried.
"Blaine you don't have anything to apologise for," Kurt assured him hugging him fiercely.
Reaching up and obviously not caring that Rachel was in the car, Blaine framed Kurt's face and pulled him in for a desperate kiss. Kurt could taste the salty tears on Blaine's mouth as he kissed him back just as passionately. Kurt didn't care what thoughts would be going through Rachel's mind right now, his boyfriend needed him and if was fiery kisses that were going to satisfy him so be it.
Blaine let his fingers travel into Kurt's hair griping it tightly as he pulled the boy closer swirling his tongue around Kurt's mouth. Kurt pulled Blaine forward just as desperately letting his hand rest on Blaine's lower back.
"Kurt I love you so much," Blaine whispered hoarsely pulling away from the kiss and resting their foreheads together.
"I know, I love you too," Kurt smiled kissing his cheek affectionately.
When Rachel finally pulled up to their driveway Kurt was pulling Blaine from the car in a instant and directing him towards his bedroom.
"Hey Kurt where did you go?" Finn slurred croakily from the couch when they stepped through the front door. "Rachel! I thought we were snuggling?"
"He is obviously still drunk," Rachel stated blushing slightly and making her way into the lounge room, letting the boys escape in peace.
Kurt led them downstairs and pulling his comforter over his ruined sheets, he lay back on the bed pulling Blaine with him. Blaine cuddled close to him nuzzling his face into Kurt's neck and hugging him tightly. Kurt lay there quietly whispering simple I love you's as Blaine continued to cry. In that moment Kurt knew that there were definitely darker days ahead of them.
…
"Hey kiddo have you seen that bottle of vodka I left lying around for Bill?" Burt asked Kurt at the breakfast table.
Bill was one of Burt's co-workers and his love for vodka was almost as bad as Kurt's love of scarves.
"No sorry," Kurt replied although now having a very sneaking suspicion of just where that bottle had ended up, remembering all too well his killer hangover.
"Huh, I was sure I left it in the pantry."
Kurt shrugged in response sipping his coffee.
Thankfully Burt and Carole had arrived home Monday evening as planned, and none the wiser of what happened last Saturday night. Finn had managed to clean up all the trash that accumulated around the house, whilst Kurt vacuumed and returned everything to its rightful place. Of course Blaine had stayed with him too not wanting to go home and helped Kurt scrub out the bathroom freeing it from various sick patches and spills.
"Maybe you gave it to him already?" Kurt suggested deceptively.
"Maybe… hey is Blaine coming around today?" Burt asked an unknown emotion flickering in his eyes that Kurt couldn't identify.
"That was the plan…" Kurt said cocking a suspicious eyebrow.
"Good, why don't you ask him to stay for dinner," Burt suggested smiling to himself.
"Why?"
"Would you rather me forbid you from seeing the boy?" Burt joked although Kurt winced, the topic hitting far too close to home.
When Blaine had finally returned home that dreadful evening he had gotten into another fight with Frank and had to agree to stop hanging out with Kurt. Blaine still hadn't told Kurt what Frank had said to make him agree but he highly suspected threats involving bodily harm may have been the cause. So every time Blaine wanted to see Kurt he had to lie to Frank saying he was going to Rachel's which had been every day that week.
"Blaine seems to be around a lot lately," Burt commented conversationally.
"Is that a problem Dad?"
"No, no. Just… unusual," Burt commented nonchalantly. "Is everything alright with him? He seems a little down lately?"
Kurt sighed, debating with himself wether or not to tell Burt the truth. In all honesty this had been killing Kurt desperate to discuss his problems with someone other than Blaine and Kurt knew his father better then anyone, so he caved.
"He is having problems at home," Kurt admitted quietly after a few moments of silence.
This definitely gained Burt's interest, going into over protective father mode.
"What kind of problems?" Burt asked. "His parents aren't fighting are they?"
"No Dad nothing like that… Blaine's Dad isn't too… keen on the whole gay aspect of things," Kurt said.
"What do you mean? Should I have a word with him?" Burt pushed concerned.
"No please Dad, just no. I will only tell you if you promise to not go off in a rage and swear to me that you will keep this between you and Carole," Kurt said seriously.
"Cross my heart," Burt smiled all too unaware of what was really going on.
"Blaine's father is homophobic," Kurt stated simply.
He watched as his father's face went through a range of expressions before calming himself to talk.
"When were you planning on telling me all this?" Burt asked trying his best to keep his voice under control.
"I didn't actually. I don't think Blaine is comfortable with telling anyone," Kurt answered taking his empty plate to the sink and waiting for his father's angry response.
"Kurt how could you keep something like this from me? If Blaine's father is treating him badly because of you guys dating, I would–"
"Would what Dad? Blaine's father doesn't even know about us! He thinks we are friends," Kurt said angrily. "Blaine is actually forbidden to see me because his father thinks I'm too feminine. So we decided to keep it a secret between ourselves and we are doing fine on our own!"
Kurt made to storm from the kitchen but Burt stopped him.
"Hey don't do that, don't cut me out of your life. You know I love you and I am here for you, all I ask is for a bit of communication," Burt said firmly slightly glassy eyed. "Kurt you're my boy, and if you and Blaine are having a rough time I'd like to know about it. I know just as much as you that a parent treating his kid like he is garbage… that ain't right. So Kurt you tell Blaine that if he ever needs a place to stay he is more then welcome here, because frankly in my eyes if he means that much to you, he is already a Hummel."
Kurt beamed up at his father before pulling him into a hug crying silently into his shoulder.
"Thanks Dad," Kurt said wiping his eyes.
"The couch rule still applies though," Burt said giving one last look of warning and heading out into the lounge room. Kurt didn't miss the smile that pulled up at the corners of his mouth.
…
About an hour later Kurt heard the doorbell sound and knowing exactly who it would be, bounced across the lounge room and into the foyer to answer it.
"Hey sexy legs" Blaine beamed when Kurt opened the door.
"God, you're one of those," Kurt greeted just as happily pulling him in for a quick kiss.
"One of what?" Blaine asked curiously.
"A man with a freaky fetish for a certain body part," Kurt stated wrapping his arms around his boyfriends neck.
Blaine laughed in response throwing his head back, his neck looking very deliciously tempting to Kurt.
"Not when it comes to legs, your ass however…" Blaine trailed off letting his hands wander south.
"Blaine!" Kurt squealed as his boyfriend hands landed on their preferred destination.
"So are you ready for the big performance?" Blaine asked referring to the notorious number they had to do with Karofsky the coming Monday.
"As ready as I'll ever be, how are you holding up?"
"Fine, my Dad has backed off a little… I think my Mom spoke to him," Blaine said sadness reaching his eyes.
"I love you, you know that right," Kurt asked resting his head on Blaine's shoulder hugging him tightly.
"I love you too."
"Hey Blaine!" Burt called out from behind them. "Has Kurt asked you to stay for dinner yet?"
"He literally just walked in Dad," Kurt said dryly.
Blaine just laughed, "No, but I would be happy to."
"Great, games on too you should watch it with us," Burt said clasping a firm hand on Blaine's shoulder that didn't occupy Kurt.
"Sounds like fun, maybe we can even get Kurt into it a little."
"I doubt that," Kurt stated. "I'll be down in my room organising my next redecoration."
Blaine smiled at him kissing him on the forehead, whilst Burt started to retreat to the kitchen. "Oh and Blaine, just so you know Carole and I are here for you, at anytime…okay."
Blaine nodded a little confused as Kurt tensed beneath him.
"Come on let's go watch a movie," Kurt said quickly pulling his boyfriend downstairs.
Once they were downstairs Blaine sat rigidly on the end of the bed whilst Kurt went to pick out a DVD.
"Or we could do something different? I feel we watch a lot of movies," Kurt gushed watching the tense Blaine who was now staring angrily at the floor boards.
"Kurt… what did you say to your Dad?" Blaine asked quietly not looking up from the wooden panels.
"Nothing… but, I may have mentioned… in passing, that your father doesn't like me very much,"Kurt admitted guiltily.
"That he doesn't like you in general or the gay community?" Blaine's eyes burned with rage when they connected with Kurt's.
"Perhaps both," Kurt felt horrible he didn't like the way Blaine was currently looking at him, like he had just destroyed everything they had built together in a few short seconds.
"Really Kurt?" Blaine exploded rising from the bed. "You went behind my back and told him about how my Dad is so homophobic that it scares the hell out of me to be in the same room as him!"
"I-I'm sorry…" Kurt mumbled.
"You're sorry? Why don't you just go tell the whole freaking world whilst your at it Kurt! This isn't a topic I share lightly with anybody and I probably wouldn't have even told you if my father hadn't got transferred to Lima!"
"Nice to know you think so highly of our relationship," Kurt snapped bitterly. "I told my father because I knew he would understand! That he wouldn't question our situation!"
"And my father would," Blaine stated coldly.
"I needed to tell someone Blaine! I hate secrets! I wouldn't have kept this one if I didn't love you so fucking much! And I know it's unfair that you don't have a father like mine, but if my Dad asks me a question I am not going to lie to him!" Kurt yelled.
"Like I lie to mine? Is that what you're getting at?"
"No! Jesus Blaine, all I am saying if I need to speak to someone about my problems it's my Dad! He has been there for me through everything, just the two of us. That's why I told him, because I can trust him completely to know that he won't go over and give your Dad a piece of his mind, which is what you are really worried about!" Kurt retorted heatedly.
Rolling his eyes Blaine went to sit back on the edge of the bed. Watching him cautiously Kurt decided go over to Blaine once he felt it safe to do so, and stood in between the v of his legs.
"Blaine… trust me on this, my Dad just wants to help us," Kurt said sadly running his hands through Blaine's curls.
Closing his eyes at the touch Blaine wrapped his arms around Kurt's waist and leant his forehead against his torso breathing heavy.
"I know, I am just used to carrying this on my own. It all scares me so much." Blaine admitted shakily. "Except the thought of losing you is so much worse… I'm sorry Kurt."
"I'm sorry too," Kurt smiled crouching down to look at Blaine's soft hazel eyes. "I should have asked."
"No, you had every right to tell him he is your father. I guess I just have to get used to the fact this isn't just about me anymore."
"You got that right," Kurt quipped receiving a laugh from Blaine. "I love you Blaine."
"I love you Kurt."
Silently Blaine pulled Kurt on top of him so he was straddling him on the edge of the bed and began to kiss him slowly. Their kisses were steady, full of electricity and passion as they tasted and explored each other. Feeling only the simple desire just to be close to the other, Kurt traced his fingers tenderly down Blaine's spine. Their movements as they got into a more comfortable position on the bed wasn't fast paced at all, they were dragged out and careful completely full of love.
Gripping Kurt's hips lightly Blaine began to trail soft warm kisses down Kurt's jaw breathing him in. Kurt loved the way Blaine's soft full lips felt against his skin, and the way his stubble grazed every inch he kissed. Reaching above him Kurt blinded searched for the hem of Blaine's shirt to pull it up and let his hands travel beneath. Just as Blaine was about to unbutton Kurt's dress shirt the all too familiar voice of Burt Hummel called down to them.
"Boys, did you want pizza for lunch?"
"No! And you shouldn't either Dad, it's bad for your heart so don't even think about calling them!" Kurt called back sighing into the mattress.
Blaine rolled on to his side, the moment gone and pulled Kurt against his shirt.
"I was going to get some from that new gourmet place around the corner," Burt retorted.
"Then get the gluten free vegetarian one!" Kurt chastised slightly exasperated.
After Burt had grumbled something else they couldn't quite make out, Kurt rested his head on Blaine's chest listening to his steady heartbeat. After a while of not saying anything and just enjoying each others company Blaine decided to break the silence.
"Hey Kurt I was thinking…"
"That could be dangerous," Kurt joked snuggling in closer to Blaine.
"Should we contact Karofsky at all or just show up and hope for the best?" Blaine asked.
Kurt sighed, because he too had been thinking of this very situation. He knew that he had said to Dave that he never was going to contact him again until the performance but he couldn't help thinking there were still some loose ends to tie up.
"I don't know," Kurt said after a while. "Finn hasn't told me that he has apologised yet."
"Well he hasn't really been given the chance," Blaine pointed out.
"That's true."
"Where is Finn today anyway?" Blaine asked absentmindedly.
"I'm not sure, I think he went somewhere with Puck… I should text him shouldn't I?"
"I don't care that much about where he is," Blaine laughed.
"Not Finn, Karofsky!" Kurt corrected nudging Blaine's shoulder.
"Oh! Probably, it's up to you…"
"What would you do?"
Blaine pondered this his eyes glazing over consumed by his thoughts. "I would text him, maybe even go and see him–"
"I don't want to see him!" Kurt said firmly.
"I know Kurt just hear me out though," Blaine reasoned sitting up from their comfortable position and ignoring Kurt's whimper at the loss. "Just say you were in his position and you knew you screwed up really badly, that you hurt the one person you loved and care about. Wouldn't you be going insane with regret and guilt?"
"He doesn't love me he's just confused," Kurt said quietly still refusing to believe it. "But I see where you are coming from… I guess we could go out for coffee…"
"No!" Blaine said immediately. "Not coffee, maybe just let's go somewhere private that no one ever goes."
Kurt smiled sadly at Blaine, apologetic for bringing up a sensitive topic. "Sorry, no coffee then. I guess… I could always invite him here… but then there is my Dad and I am not to sure he would be so keen on inviting him inside."
"How about the bowling alley, no one ever goes there?" Blaine suggested thoughtfully.
Quirking an eyebrow Kurt's thoughts immediately flashed to the unhygienic bowling balls and the terribly unfashionable shoes, internally gagging. "As long as you don't make me bowl."
"Why not? Bowling is fun," Blaine teased leaning in to peck the corner of Kurt's mouth.
"Only if you don't believe in sanitary," Kurt remarked leaning in to the kiss. "Fine I'll text him asking for a play date."
"A play date?" Blaine laughed attacking Kurt's neck with kisses making the pale boy giggle, squirming out of reach.
"Don't mock me Anderson, or you can say goodbye to your cuddling rights." Blaine held up his hands in surrender leaning over Kurt watching him as his fingers flew across the screen. Swallowing the fear Kurt re-read his message one last time before hitting the send button and waited anxiously for Karofsky's reply. When the phone vibrated in his hands no more then a couple of seconds later, Kurt prepared himself for what he hoped would be be the second last time he would ever contact the boy he hated so much.
Blaine gave him a gentle squeeze around the waist.
"Kurt everything is going to be okay." Kurt believed him.
…
"Breathe," Kurt commanded his boyfriend.
The couple was currently seated backstage at McKinley High, Kurt in the process of painting an intricate skull onto Blaine's face. Karofsky stood a few feet away from them fastening his terribly skewed bow tie and checking his his reflection every so often. All three boys were dressed in tuxedos with frightening skeletal features painted on their bodies. Today was the day Kurt had been dreading yet excited about all week, today he was going to perform 'Born This Way' in front of the entire student body of Mckinley. Basically shouting at them that he was out and proud.
Kurt had gone to Mr. Schuester to ask if they could temporarily steal the stage during the assembly, and the teacher reluctantly agreed when Kurt told him it was to do with Karofsky.
"What if someone recognises me that knows my Dad?" Blaine asked panic stricken, his breathing becoming rapid as he fidgeted in his chair.
"Blaine calm down, how many teenagers does your Dad actually know? Let alone attend McKinley?" Kurt asked setting down his brush and popping his hip. Blaine could be the most paranoid person sometimes and right now Kurt was stressed enough as it was without dealing with the whole Frank baggage. "Besides your face barely looks recognisable under that makeup, but don't worry I still find you sexy." Kurt promised kissing him lightly.
Smiling back Blaine attempted to calm himself whilst Kurt re-took the brush and began making the finishing touches.
"How many do you think are out there?" Karofsky asked hesitantly, not moving an inch from his safe three metre distance. "It's like the whole school right?"
Kurt could tell the boy was nervous, but really at this point Kurt didn't care.
"Most likely," Kurt replied coldly. "If they aren't all out there, I am sure word of mouth will do the job just fine."
Karofsky nodded before untying and retying his bow tie a few times. Kurt turned away from him to marvel at his spectacular make up job.
"There, you look perfect," Kurt stated happily. "Except for the whole looking like you just rose from a grave type thing."
"Speaking of which, why these costumes?" Blaine asked inquisitively rising from his chair and wrapping his arms around Kurt. "I don't really understand how they portray 'gay' that much? I really pegged your costume designs to be something more like a rainbow unitard with a bunch of unicorns sewn across the chest."
"God Blaine, how tacky can you be?" Kurt quipped only half annoyed at his boyfriends lack of fashion sense. "They are inspirations from Gaga's actual video clip, beside it give's me an excuse to wear something from Dior."
Blaine laughed nudging Kurt lightly. "I am going to have to do something about your twisted obsession with fashion." Slipping from Kurt's touch Blaine made his way across the room silently.
"Where do you think you're going?" Kurt called after him. "We go on in ten minutes."
"Relax Kurt, I need to use the bathroom," Blaine was out of sight a few seconds after that leaving Kurt alone with Karofsky.
Hesitantly Kurt let his eyes gaze upward at the boy who was fixing his tie for probably had to be the twentieth time. Sighing Kurt strode over to him confidently and snatched the tie from his fingers and began looping the fabric together effortlessly, after all he was an expert. Karofsky looked at him questioningly but didn't comment.
Things between them were still very awkward, Kurt still mistrusting him completely but they had definitely made some progress at their bowling 'play date'. Turns out Karofsky had tried to contact Finn many times but the stubborn quarterback refused to listen and because he didn't have glee or Rachel's number he couldn't explain a thing. Kurt had argued they were stupid excuses at first but like always Blaine talked him through it and let him view things from another perspective.
"So you and Blaine seem to be… happy," Karofsky commented nonchalantly as Kurt made one last pull at his tie and straightening it.
"We are," Kurt stated firmly moving away and sitting down on the edge of the counter top.
"Good, I am happy for you."
"Me too," Once again silence fell between them, both looking as though wanting to say so much more.
"Kurt…" Karofsky began quietly but quickly dismissed himself with a shake of his head.
"What Dave?"
"Look, I know you're still really angry with me and you have every right but… Kurt come back to McKinley you belong here," Karofsky pleaded desperation in his eyes. "I don't want you back here so I can be with you, I just want to make things right again. Kurt I know you must miss your friends here in the glee club, I can't promise you that you won't ever get picked on again or slushied. However I can promise you that never again will you be thrown into the lockers or the dumpsters or have your life threatened by me."
"That's all very nice Dave but–"
"No just let me finish. I understand you have no reason to believe me or trust me, but just let me prove it to you, give me that chance at least. I will be there every time someone like Azimio or some other jock are picking on you, and I will be there standing up for you protecting you because Kurt you and I really aren't that different. I screwed up royally and I want to prove to you that I can do better, that I am better."
Silence fell between them when Karofsky finished, Kurt slightly in shock. He did miss McKinley all of his friends were here and he could truly act himself without fear of stepping a little too far outside of the conformist box. Then there were the other bullies, the other people who made his life hell giving him daily nine a.m slushy facials or throwing pee balloons at him. There was also Blaine.
Kurt sighed lost in his own thoughts. "I'll think about it," Kurt said finally just as Blaine walked back in to the room.
"Kurt they are ready for us."
Kurt nodded and gave Karofsky a small smile of encouragement before following his boyfriend out on to the stage.
…
Kurt's heart was pounding in his chest as the adrenaline swam through his veins. He was standing in the centre of the stage with Karofsky and Blaine either side of him in total darkness. He could see Figgin's up a head mumbling some incoherent nonsense about the return of school and various problems into the microphone.
"Are you ready for this?" Kurt whispered to Karofsky making sure the taller boy wasn't planning on doing a runner now.
"Yeah…" He whispered back after a few seconds.
After Figgin's wrapped up his speech Kurt gave one last breath as the first few notes began to play and Blaine spoke the first few lines as they all kept their heads down.
It doesn't matter if you love him, or capital H-I-M
Just put your paws up
'Cause you were born this way, baby
After Blaine finished his lines and the rest of the music cued, various spotlights began flashing as the boys began all dancing in sync around the stage. When the music slowed Kurt moved to the front and began to sing whilst Karofsky and Blaine danced around him.
My mama told me when I was young
We're all born superstars
She rolled my hair, put my lipstick on
In the glass of her boudoir
"There's nothin' wrong with lovin' who you are"
She said, "'Cause He made you perfect, babe"
"So hold your head up, girl and you you'll go far,
Listen to me when I say"
Moving into the chorus, Kurt moved back in sync with the others as they all began to dance and sing together. Kurt caught a glimpse at a few members of the glee club, Rachel's expression was masked by utter shock and confusion as for Finn who was seated next to her looked like he was just trying to figure out what was actually going on.
I'm beautiful in my way,
'Cause God makes no mistakes
I'm on the right track, baby
I was born this way
Don't hide yourself in regret,
Just love yourself and you're set
I'm on the right track, baby
I was born this way
(Born this way)
Ooo, there ain't no other way
Baby, I was born this way
Baby, I was born this way
(Born this way)
Ooo, there ain't other way
Baby, I was born this way
I'm on the right track, baby
I was born this way
Don't be a drag, just be a queen
Don't be a drag, just be a queen
Don't be a drag, just be a queen
Don't be!
This time Blaine moved forward to the centre to sing solo yet continuing to dance together with Karofsky and Kurt.
Give yourself prudence and love your friends
Subway kid, rejoice the truth
In the religion of the insecure
I must be myself, respect my youth
A different lover is not a sin
Believe capital H-I-M (hey, hey, hey)
I love my life, I love this record and
Mi amore vole fe yah
I'm beautiful in my way,
'Cause God makes no mistakes
I'm on the right track, baby
I was born this way
Don't hide yourself in regret,
Just love yourself and you're set
I'm on the right track, baby
I was born this way
Ooo, there ain't no other way
Baby, I was born this way
Baby, I was born this way
(Born this way )
Ooo, there ain't other way
Baby, I was born way
I'm on the right track, baby
I was born this way
After the second chorus which focused heavily on Blaine's strong vocals, he slinked back around to the other side of Karofsky. Kurt and Blaine kept their heads down moving in rigid robotic moves completely in sync, as the spotlight focused on the taller boy and slowly but sassily he moved forward to deliver his lines with the most passion Kurt had ever seen in him.
Don't be a drag, just be a queen
Whether you're broke or evergreen
You're black, white, beige, chola descent
You're Lebanese, you're orient
Whether life's disabilities
Left you outcast, bullied or teased
Rejoice and love yourself today
'Cause baby, you were born this way
No matter gay, straight or bi
lesbian, transgendered life
I'm on the right track, baby
I was born to survive
No matter black, white or beige
chola or orient made
I'm on the right track, baby
I was born to be brave
Kurt and Blaine moved forward to join in again as the three of them moved around the stage flawlessly to deliver the rest of their performance. The entire time all three boys had the widest of grins planted on their faces, singing passionately.
I'm beautiful in my way
'Cause God makes no mistakes
I'm on the right track, baby
I was born this way
Don't hide yourself in regret,
Just love yourself and you're set
I'm on the right track, baby
I was born this way, yeah!
Ooo, there ain't no other way
Baby, I was born this way
Baby, I was born this way
(Born this way )
Ooo, there ain't other way
Baby, I was born this way
I'm on the right track, baby
I was born this way
I was born this way, hey!
I was born this way, hey!
I'm on the right track, baby
I was born this way, hey!
I was born this way, hey!
I was born this way, hey!
I'm on the right track, baby
I was born this way, hey!
After the last few lines said by Blaine faded out, they stood there panting and were met by a total silent audience. Kurt looked up at his old glee club all of them wide eyed before glancing over at jock central. Kurt couldn't help but wince at the looks some of them were giving them but suddenly his paranoid thoughts were interrupted by a thunderous applause that had obviously originated from the glee club. Grinning Karofsky clapped a hand on Kurt's shoulder before pulling him and Blaine into a tight group hug.
"Thanks," Kurt heard him whisper into his ear.
"You did pretty good out there," Kurt complimented.
Karofsky smiled in response and Kurt returned it.
Maybe I was wrong? Kurt thought absentmindedly as he watched Karofsky bounce around the stage, completely content and looking as thought the weight of the world had finally been lifted.
"What are you thinking about?" Blaine's soft voice said in his ear as the curtains drew to a close.
"Nothing, just maybe forgiveness isn't a bad idea at all," Kurt admitted leaning into Blaine as he wrapped his arms around his waist.
"You inspire me Kurt," Blaine said simply kissing him on the temple.
…
"So… Karofsky is gay then?" Finn asked rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly as Kurt, Blaine and the rest of his old glee club gathered in the choir room.
"Yes Finn," Rachel answered a little sourly probably still irked by their drunken night together, Kurt assumed anyway.
"I was just checking!"
"I did not see that one coming," Quinn admitted from her chair that was perched on the highest step. "He doesn't even seem it."
"I don't think anyone did," Mercedes agreed from the seat next to her.
"Well not all of us show it as flamboyantly as Kurt," Blaine pointed out receiving a slap on his arm from the boy in question.
The choir room broke out in simultaneous laughter at the couple.
"So does that mean you will be coming back to McKinley?" Rachel asked. "We could do with your voice back."
"As much as I am flattered by your back handed compliment Rachel, I don't think I will," Kurt said cooly.
"Why not?" Finn asked bewildered. "What's keeping you at Dalton? Didn't you say they were pretty much a bunch of prudes anyway?"
Everyone's eyes landed on the freakishly tall boy in disbelief, as a very red Kurt's flashed to the boy whose arms he was currently in. "Oh." Finn mumbled finally understanding.
"You think us Dalton boys are prudes?" Blaine questioned jokingly.
"No…" Kurt mumbled. "Maybe just a little." Blaine simply laughed and hugged him tighter.
"Hey guys what are you all doing in here?" A confused Mr. Schuester asked from the door way letting his eyes travel across the room and settling on Kurt. "Kurt?"
"Hi Mr. Schuester," Kurt smiled rising from his chair. "Don't get your hopes up Blaine and I were just on our way out."
"That's too bad, we miss you Kurt." The teacher said clapping a firm hand on his shoulder.
"And I miss all of you guys."
"So… come back," Finn suggested again ignoring all the annoyed stares. "Seriously Kurt, you and Blaine live like ten minutes away from the other and you see each all the time if he is the only thing keeping you at Dalton, it's a pretty stupid reason!"
Kurt sighed at his step brother annoyed by his one track mind.
"Blaine isn't the only–"
"You should Kurt," Blaine chimed in. "Really, you would be happier here and if I am the only reason you are going to stay at Dalton that reason is kind of pathetic."
For the second time that day Kurt answered simply with the words, "I'll think about it."