Hey guys! I know it's been a while, but I'm back now! For those of you that missed or skipped the previous chapter, basically Burt found out that Kurt hadn't read the pamphlets he'd gotten him. This resulted in an awkward conversation that later helped him become more comfortable.
As always:
- I do NOT own Glee or any of the characters
- If you notice any grammatical errors don't hesitate to reach out!
- I still have pages of this story saved, so let me know if you'd be interested in seeing more chapters in the future!
Hope you enjoy!
Kurt swung his bag over his shoulder, headed towards the library. His French teacher was making the whole class do presentations on an important historical event that was somehow related to France, and Kurt knew he needed to get a book ahead of time if he wanted an interesting topic.
He scanned the nonfiction section, looking for anything that might spark his interest. Reports were one of his least favorite things to do, mostly because of the lack of creativity he could use. He was about to head to the front desk to see if the librarian could help him out when someone handed him a book. Kurt turned in surprise to find Dave standing there.
"Sorry, I didn't mean to scare you, I just realized what section you were in and thought I'd help out." He nodded towards the book in Kurt's hand. "Bastille Day. It's one of France's most celebrated holidays that originated a while ago." He stuck his hands in his pockets, suddenly seeming nervous.
Kurt smiled. "Thank you, I was having trouble if you couldn't tell. What are you doing in the library? Don't you have football practice?"
Dave shook his head. "I'm taking a break. My counselor said it's probably best to avoid after school activities until my depression meds kick in."
"You started seeing a counselor? Dave, that's great."
Dave gave a small shrug. "I guess so. The reason I came here is because I need to talk to you. About something." He cleared his throat, nervously picking at a hangnail.
"Okay, what's going on?" Kurt sat down at one of the many tables spread around the room. The library was pretty vacant, so he spoke a little louder than he normally would.
Karofsky sat beside him, fidgeting nervously. "I've decided that... I want to come out to my parents. But I don't know how. I figured that since you have experience with it you could help me."
Kurt nodded. "Of course I'll help you. Have you thought about what you want to say?"
"Not really. I'm not sure how they'll react so I haven't given that part too much thought." He turned back to his hangnail, nerves eating away at him. "Should I write down what to say? Or should I just say it? I wish it wasn't so hard."
Kurt sighed. "I know. Dave, you should do whatever feels right to you. If it helps to write it down then that's great, but you can also just figure it out as you go." He put a hand on Dave's shoulder. "For me it was more comfortable to just say it, but I know how nerve wracking that can be. If you want I can help you write some things down, maybe like some key points you want to cover?"
Dave nodded. "I'd like that. I wish I could be as brave about it as you are."
"You'll get there. Trust me, once you're out things are way less stressful." Kurt took a piece of notebook paper from his bag, grabbing a pen from a cup in the center of the table. "Okay, so what do you want your parents to know? Sometimes just saying you like guys isn't enough."
Dave thought for a moment. "Okay, um, maybe that I've known I was gay for almost two years now. And that it's not just a phase."
Kurt jotted these things down, eyes on the paper. "That's a good start. Anything else you want to mention?"
"Maybe that it's the reason I've been extra depressed." He continued to fidget, clearly uncomfortable. "Were you this nervous? Before you told your dad?"
Kurt nodded. "Yes, I was terrified. It's normal to be scared, everyone is. The fact of the matter is you're doing a brave thing that so many people are never able to do. I'm being completely honest when I tell you that you've got this. I've only met your dad a handful of times, but from what I can tell he loves you so much."
Dave swallowed. "Kurt, do you really think I should?"
"It's up to you. But I will say that the longer you wait the harder it's going to be."
Dave gave a small nod. "You're right. Hey, I know it's stupid, but... could you maybe come over tonight when I do it? I really don't want to be alone."
Kurt smiled. "Of course I will. Just call me when you're ready and I'll drop whatever I'm doing to be there."
Kurt knocked firmly on the door, shifting his weight as he stood on the doorstep. It was around 7:30, and he'd received a text from Dave a few minutes ago that he and his parents had just finished eating and that he was ready.
The door opened almost immediately, and suddenly Kurt was face to face with a stout woman wearing what appeared to be a cross between a shirt and a dress. Her hair was an auburn color and she had light green eyes. Kurt immediately knew she was Dave's mother, there was no doubt about it.
The woman smiled warmly. "You must be Kurt. Please, come inside." She opened the door wider, watching as Kurt slipped off his shoes and coat. "You know, David never brings friends over much anymore. I mean, there have been a few football players, but no one in a while."
Kurt smiled. "Yes, well, Dave is a good friend of mine. Speaking of which, do you know where he is?"
"Of course! He's up in his room." The woman pointed up the stairs. "First door to your left." She sashayed into the kitchen, leaving Kurt stranded in the hallway.
Without a second thought Kurt followed her directions, knocking lightly on the door.
Karofsky opened it, eyes puffy. "Hey, come on in." He shut the door behind them, knees shaking as he sat down in a chair. "I don't know if I can do this."
Kurt kneeled beside him. "Dave, you've got this. I know you do. Otherwise I wouldn't be here right now."
Dave's lip quivered. "What if they laugh at me? Or kick me out? I have no other family in Ohio, I'd have to live on the streets."
"That's not going to happen, I promise." Kurt soothed, reaching into his pocket. "I brought this for you. It's the pin I was wearing when I came out to my dad." He carefully attached it to Dave's shirt. "I know it might seem stupid, but I'm convinced it has magical powers. If you're wearing it there's no way things won't go well."
Dave smiled. "You made that up just now, didn't you?"
Kurt laughed. "Was it that obvious? Look, maybe it's not magic, but I still want you to have it. You need it more than I do."
"Are you sure? It seems pretty sentimental."
"Keep it. Seriously." Kurt offered a small smile. "Are you ready?"
"As ready as I'll ever be." He stood shakily, letting out a breath. "Is it normal to feel like I'm about to vomit?"
"Yep, I felt the exact same way." Kurt offered his hand, which Dave immediately took. "I'm here for you."
"Thanks. I guess we should head downstairs." Dave slowly turned the doorknob, walking down the stairs. Kurt followed him into the living room where Mr. and Mrs. Karofsky were seated.
Dave sat on the blue couch adjacent to them, nodding at Kurt to sit down as well. Once everyone was settled he began. "Mom, dad, I want to talk to you about something."
"Are you back on the football team? I knew you'd rejoin!" Dave's father exclaimed. "That counselor couldn't keep you from playing if she tried."
Dave shook his head. "No, that's actually not what I was going to say."
"Oh sweetie, I know what this is about." His mother said with a sigh.
"What? You do?" Dave looked up in shock.
"Yes. You're joining that club thing. The one that's about singing. What's it called?"
"Glee club." Dave replied. "Mom, that's not it. The truth is, I'm..." he turned to Kurt, fear in his eyes. Kurt gave an encouraging nod. Dave impulsively ran his finger over the pin on his sweatshirt. It calmed him down a little, and after a couple of seconds he was able to speak again. "I'm gay."
The room went quiet. Everything was still for what seemed like forever, and it went on for ages. Kurt squeezed his friend's hand in anticipation as he watched the parents' faces change.
Dave cleared his throat softly. "I, um, know it might be surprising to you so I want to explain. I've liked guys for the last couple of years, and over time things have solidified for me. I wanted to tell you sooner but I couldn't until now."
Mrs. Karofsky turned to Kurt, confusion in her eyes. "Did you know about this?"
Kurt nodded. "Yes. Dave came out to me awhile ago, and since I'm openly gay I wanted to be here for him."
Dave watched as his mother broke down. At first there were just a couple of tears but soon she was sobbing. He sat uncomfortably, watching as his father wrapped his arms around her.
After a few minutes Mr. Karofsky turned back to his son, eyes caring. "Dave, thank you for telling us. I can imagine that was pretty hard for you."
Dave let out a breath he didn't know he'd been holding. "So you're not upset about it?"
His mother shook her head, blowing her nose. "Of course not. You're our son, David. We love you no matter what."
Dave felt his whole body relax at these words. A wave of relief washed over him, and for the first time in months he felt content. "Thank you for listening. I'm really trying to be more open about things now."
His father smiled warmly. "We couldn't be prouder of you. I think this calls for some celebratory ice cream." He turned to Kurt. "Would you like to join us?"
Kurt smiled. "I would, but I didn't bring any cash."
"Nonsense, it's on us." Mr. Karofsky insisted
"Are you sure?"
"Definitely. You're the one who helped Dave come out of his shell, it's the least we can do." He grabbed his car keys from the table. "Now, who wants ice cream?"
"Thank you so much for the ice cream, it was delicious." Kurt stood, dusting off his pants. "I should probably get going though, I still have a lot of homework to do."
Mrs. Karofsky nodded. "Of course. Dave, your father and I were actually thinking of shopping around the plaza a little. Would you mind giving Kurt a ride?"
"No problem." Dave smiled, leading Kurt out of the restaurant and to the car. He unlocked the doors, climbing into the driver's seat. Kurt sat down next to him, closing the door.
Dave let out a sigh. "Oh my gosh, I'm so glad that's over. Thank you for being there for me, I know you probably had a ton of things you wanted to do tonight."
Kurt smiled. "You're welcome. And congratulations, now you don't have to pretend anymore."
"Yeah..." Dave put the key into the ignition and began to drive. "Kurt, you know how I said I was trying to be more open?"
"Yeah, why?" Kurt reached to turn up the heat.
"Well, I feel like I should tell you that I..." Dave trailed off. "You know, maybe it's not a big deal. Forget I said anything."
"Dave, talk to me." Kurt turned around in his seat so he was facing the jock. "I'm here to listen."
Dave nodded. "Okay fine. I might as well just say it. I know that you might already know this, but... I like you. A lot. And I know you're with Blaine, but I just wanted to tell you."
Kurt was silent for a minute before speaking. "Dave, I'm flattered. I really am. But it's like you said, I'm dating Blaine. I really hate to reject you right now, but we can't-"
"I know." Dave cut him off. "I just felt like you should know so it doesn't come back to haunt me later."
"I'm sorry." Kurt sighed. "You know, if Blaine wasn't in the picture maybe I'd reconsider. But I really like him, and it wouldn't be fair to either of us to do this. I like you as a friend, but nothing more." He put a hand on Dave's shoulder. "But just because you and I can't be together doesn't mean there isn't some lucky guy out there waiting for you. And you'll find him, I know you will."
Dave offered a small smile. "Thanks for being cool about it." He nodded towards the window. "This is your place, right?"
Kurt nodded. "Yeah. I'm proud of you, Dave."
Dave reached over the seat to hug his friend. "I couldn't have done it without you."
"Wow, I can't believe he came out. If I'm being honest I wasn't sure he was going to." Blaine and Kurt were sitting at their usual spot at Shirley's, sipping their hot drinks. "It was really nice of you to help him out."
Kurt sighed. "Yes, well, I couldn't say no. I remember feeling the exact same way right before I told my dad." He took a sip of his coffee, warming his hands on the cup. "Luckily his parents were really cool about it. I was scared that they weren't going to be."
"Well that's good." Blaine paused, a smile on his face. "Look, Mercedes is here!"
Kurt turned around in his seat, waving at his friend. Mercedes crossed to them, sitting down in the chair next to Kurt.
"Hi guys! I wasn't expecting to see you here." Mercedes set her bag on the ground next to her, careful not to tip it over.
"It's so good to see you! It feels like we haven't talked in forever." Kurt said, taking a final gulp of coffee.
"I know, right? We just talked in school today but I feel like it's been a long time." Mercedes placed her manicured hands on the table, smile still unwavering. "So. My parents are gone this weekend and I was thinking of throwing a glee party. We could kind of celebrate our Nationals win and watch a movie. No alcohol, of course."
Kurt nodded. "That sounds amazing, I'd love to go! Have you asked the other members yet?"
"I texted them. So far the only replies I got are from Artie, Santana, and Mike Chang. Hopefully more people get back to me." Mercedes turned to Blaine. "I know you're technically not a part of the New Directions, but you should come too."
"Are you sure? Because I get it if you want to only invite people from McKinley."
"Of course I'm sure! Besides, I'm sure Puckerman will bring his new girlfriend from Prince."
Blaine smiled. "Okay cool, I'd love to join you."
"Yay! I'll send you my address if you want. Or you two could carpool, Kurt's been there a thousand times." She stood, picking up her bag. "Well, I guess I should get the tea that I came for. See you guys this weekend!"
Once she was out of earshot Blaine leaned across the table slightly. "Do you think I should go? I really don't want to intrude."
"Stop, of course you're gonna go! Mercedes already said so." Kurt smirked, a mischievous look in his eyes. "Besides, I'm sure there will be time for some kissing."
"I guess I'm going." Blaine winked, standing up. "Should we get out of here?"
"You look nice." Burt commented, giving his son a once over. "Where are you headed?"
Kurt took the car keys from their spot on the counter, grabbing his coat from a hook by the door. "Mercedes invited the whole club over for a party tonight. It'll be nice to hang out with everyone outside of the choir room for a change."
Burt nodded slowly. "Are parents going to be there?"
Kurt sighed. "No, they're out of town. But Mercedes made it really clear that there won't be any alcohol if that's what you're worried about."
Burt turned back to the television. "I guess I don't care if you go. Make good choices and let me know when you'll be home."
"I will, thanks dad." Kurt headed to the car, opening the door and putting the key into the ignition. It started with a whir, and he began the short drive to Blaine's. When he got there his boyfriend was already standing on the porch.
"Hey, hop in. We don't want to be late." Kurt joked, pulling up in front of his house.
Blaine opened the passenger side door, slipping in and buckling his seatbelt. "Wow, this is a first. I don't think I've ever seen you drive."
Kurt laughed. "Yeah, well, that's because I hate it. All the stuff you have to remember, like where to put your feet and when to use the turn signal... It's a lot."
"Well, if you're having trouble I can always take over." Blaine teased. "I've been told I'm a pretty good driver."
Kurt rolled his eyes as he turned onto the next street. "You really think highly of yourself, don't you?"
Blaine shrugged. "Self confidence is key. Hey, any chance you know what time this will end? My mom's texting me like crazy."
"Just tell her you'll be home by midnight." Kurt pulled into Mercedes' driveway behind a blue Toyota. "Let's go have some fun."
Blaine knocked on the door, which opened almost immediately. Mercedes grinned. "You guys made it! Come inside, make yourselves at home."
Kurt looked around the room, observing the space. Mercedes had moved the couches and armchairs against the wall, and a small folding table with tons of snacks was set up in a corner. The middle of the room had been made into a dance floor, and Mike Chang was busy teaching Tina some difficult looking dance moves. There was a big red beanbag in the corner, currently being used by Brittany and Santana as a make out spot. Rachel was busy moping around the sidelines, obviously disappointed that Finn hadn't shown up.
"Wow, you really outdid yourself. This looks amazing." Kurt said in awe.
"Thanks, I figured if I'm gonna throw a party I'm gonna do it right." Mercedes said with a smile. "I need to go restock the snacks, I'll be right back."
Kurt smiled at Blaine. "Should we go dance? It's been a while since the last time."
Blaine nodded. "I'm in." He extended a hand, bowing down slightly. "Kurt, may I have this dance?"
Kurt blushed. "So formal. But yes, of course you can."
The rest of the night was amazing. Once the rest of the club showed up they played some party games, including spin the bottle, but luckily this time Blaine didn't end up kissing Rachel. Mercedes also brought her microphone in from the other room, and everyone took turns singing their hearts out. Kurt was having so much fun, and he was really disappointed when he checked the time. 11:45, they should probably get going.
Mercedes walked them to the door. "Are you sure you can't stay? I'm pretty sure some people are crashing here tonight."
Blaine sighed. "Ugh, I wish I could, but my mother would freak."
"Same here, my dad was already skeptical." Kurt gave a sad smile. "It was really fun though, thanks for inviting us."
"You're welcome. I'm glad you had a good time." Mercedes gave each of them one final hug. "Talk to you later."
The drive home went remarkably fast, and before he knew it Kurt was parked in front of Blaine's house once again. "I guess we should say goodbye."
"I guess." Blaine groaned, slumping back against the seat. "I really don't want to though."
Kurt smiled playfully. "Come on, you have to go in. Your mother's probably worried sick."
Blaine sat up straight. "Are you making fun of my curfew?"
Kurt shrugged. "Maybe a little. Only because I want to hang out longer."
"I know, so do I." Blaine unbuckled his seatbelt, planting a kiss on his boyfriend's lips. "I'll see you tomorrow, okay? We can meet up at Breadsticks or something."
Kurt nodded. "I'd like that. Now get out of my car, it's already past midnight."
Aww, I love them so much!:) Anyway, I really wanted to develop the friendship between Kurt and Dave more, which is why I added this chapter in last minute. There are some interesting plot twists coming up, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled for more chapters!
As always, leave a review or comment if you want to, I appreciate it so much! I love you guys! Until next week!
