"Want to come over after school to work on our new duet for glee?" Kurt asked Blaine. They were sitting outside at school on a bright spring day eating their lunches.
"I can't today. I have to go with my dad to do something," Blaine said.
"Do you mind if I ask what it is?" Kurt asked. Blaine never went anywhere with his father. They had a horrible relationship all because of Blaine's sexuality. Kurt knew that when Blaine had to spend time with his dad, something was up.
"I have to go see my uncle," Blaine said nonchalantly.
"Oh, that's sweet. Have a good time," Kurt said.
"Thanks. I'll be sure to tell him hello for you," Blaine said. They went back to eating their lunches. About five minutes later, Blaine broke the silence. "My uncle is in prison." Kurt couldn't help but let his jaw fall open.
"Um…oh. I'm sorry," Kurt said. He couldn't really think of anything else to say. Blaine sighed.
"It's okay. I just thought you should know," Blaine said.
"What's he in for, if you don't mind me asking?" Kurt asked.
"Domestic abuse," Blaine said, not making eye contact with Kurt. "It's not like I want to go visit him. Believe me, I'd much rather be singing with you. But he and my dad were really close growing up and I guess even jail couldn't keep them apart. My dad makes me go visit him with him to make it look like we're still a functioning family," Blaine said. Kurt put his arm around him.
"Do you want me to make some sort of excuse for you so you don't have to go? Like Finn broke his leg and you have to take him to the hospital or something?" Kurt asked.
"Nah, I'll give my dad this much," Blaine replied.
"Feel free to call me afterwards if you need to talk, okay?" Kurt asked, squeezing Blaine's shoulder.
"Wait by the phone. I already know I'll need it. I hate that place," Blaine said, leaning on Kurt. Kurt rubbed his shoulders and they lingered out on the lawn for a little longer than they should have, even past when the lunch bell rang.