TAKE A MULLIGAN - CHAPTER 6: A RECKONING Part 3

After midnight at Rachel's apartment…

He's slouched down in the overstuffed armchair in the darkened room which is only illuminated by the laptop computer in front of him. He's holding a fifth of Jack Daniels whiskey, the contents of which are a third gone. It was a new bottle when he opened it 2 hours glass he'd taken out to pour it into sits clean and untouched, because "why bother." On the coffee table next to the unused whiskey tumbler was his special 'clarity kit' - a small black velvet covered hinged box, a 6 inch square mirror, a $20 bill rolled into the shape of a straw, a credit card, and the remnants of an 8-ball of cocaine dusted over the mirror.

Un-fucking-believble. She really is, truly UN-believable! Accusing ME of cheating all the time, and now look at her. Little miss virtuous and innocent, stepping out on me…. and for how long, the entire time? I don't have to guess who the asshole is, even if I hadn't seen his photo I'd know it's Hudson just by the way she was looking at him. She's never looked at me that way. Thankless slut.

A couple of nights ago she didn't come home. Claims to have fallen asleep at Kurt's… HIS brother's place. Food coma, RIGHT. How convenient. So, did HE stay there too? Yeah, he's probably been crashing there. And I can't wait to hear what tonight's excuse gonna be. Wonder how long he's been back, and how long this has been going on. Have they been sneaking around for months, or did it just happen? And is he back in town for good, or just passing through? After what he did to her and how badly she suffered I can't believe she'd even speak to him again, let alone whatever she's doing with him - or TO him.

I wonder if she's planning on staying out all night again, and what excuse will she come up with this time? Stupid bitch apparently forgets that we set up the find-a-phone family tracking app since she'd be coming and going late from the theater alone. And how easy it was to just go there, find them together and just see her with HIM. Hope they enjoyed their little evening stroll in the park… Almost wish I'd confronted them, woulda loved to have heard what she had to say when she's caught with her hands in the cookie jar, see how she'd try to worm her way out of it. Oh, but she's such a great actress!

No wonder she won't let me touch her this week. Well, who am I kidding? She hardly ever lets me initiate it anymore, IF it ever happens it's always on her terms or not at all. We're supposed to be getting married in a couple of months and she's what, cheating? Having a last fling? Or is this a full-blown affair with him? Maybe they're just clearing the air and getting closure. Yeah, sure. I bet I know what kind of CLOSURE.

I knew she never got over him, but I really thought she meant more in terms of not getting over the HURT and pain he inflicted. It's been so long since she even mentioned him, I didn't think he was even a blip on her radar anymore. I really thought that meant she was just finally moving on, getting past him... Maybe it was just her cover, to hide them sneaking around all this time? I should have known better!

Yeah, it all makes sense now…. the text, the panties, the song in the shower, the fact that she doesn't mention him. I knew it meant something... trouble. And she's not even trying to hide it! Walking around in public? Let's see how much I have to press her to get the truth. I deserve that much. I deserve so much better than her, for everything I've done for her, not many guys would have stuck around like this. Put up with the crazy mood swings, her unbridled fury and fits of rage. Oh yeah, she's a Broadway diva alright! But when she's at her best there's no one like her. Rachel Berry is worth the hassle on a lot of levels. Dammit I can't just walk away. I love her too much. It's not just a pride thing, it's HER.

He was a complete fool for letting her go, probably didn't have a clue what a good thing he had. Hey, I figure it's my luck he did. After all, one man's trash, another man's treasure. Haha. If he thinks I'm just gonna let her go as easily as he did, he's dreaming. I cleaned up HIS mess, got too much time and energy invested to just give her up now. He doesn't even deserve her. She and I have our problems, yeah, but they started with HIM. Seems they continue to be him. She needs to remember what an asshole he is, that she can't trust him. Guess I'll have to remind her.

After 2 AM, back at the hotel…

"I could marry you, if you want to?"

He can't believe the words came out of his mouth. AGAIN. Already. But if he's being totally honest, it's what he always wanted anyway. He knows it's completely up to her now… his fate. His heart. Their future – if they have one? It's all in her hands now.

He's up and pacing the room nervously and his hands are shaking. She's still just sitting there blinking at him with a blank expression, and he can't read her at all. Did he break her? Again? His goal was to UN-break her.

Why is she just staring at me? Shit.. maybe I should take it back? Grab the words out of the air.. can I do that? Fuck, what did I do… Wait, it looks like she's just thinking. Yeah, she's processing. She's not freaking out, I just shocked the hell out of her again, that's all… and why do I keep doing this to her? But she's not freaking out, so maybe that's a good thing? Then why am I freaking out? Oh right.. because I just PROPOSED again. And she's not answering me - AGAIN. Great just when I thought I might have a chance at getting her back I may have just ruined it.

"S-Say something Rach. If, if it's .. I-I'm sorry. I shouldn't have said it, it's too crazy right? I don't.. I dunno what I was thinking… b-but I-I just thought, if, if you– "

She's utterly flummoxed. "Stop talking Finn." She's breathing deeply and closes her eyes. Looks like she's doing her yoga meditation thing. Her heartbeat pounds in her ears and she's wringing her hands. She can feel his eyes boring a hole into her.

She clears her throat quietly then begins, "The last time you asked me that question… my gut instinct was that it wasn't the right time. It's why it took so long for me to answer you. We were much too young. Plus, I knew you were basically having an existential crisis and you were clinging to the only thing you were sure of at the time. But I saw it in your face, that third day when you came to my locker, you were so hopeful.. and I loved you so, so much… The thing I didn't tell you back then, I think I was also having a crisis of sorts. I hadn't heard back from NYADA yet and assumed the worst. My future, my dreams were uncertain at that time too. But I knew how I felt about you. I knew we'd get to that point eventually. Even though the timing was off and maybe we were both considering this for the wrong reasons, I honestly wanted to be your wife. So the answer suddenly felt simple and I said yes." The tears are threatening to spill again.

Why is it they are always so EXTREME in everything that happens between them? They never really had a typical first date - or really, ANY courtship process. They just had a lot of (mostly unspoken) FEELINGS. They were just together or not. He never really asked her to be his girlfriend, mostly she just assumed she was and he went along, or vice-versa. Their relationship had been filled with grand gestures, usually centered around singing competitions with very little meaningful talk behind them.

And now here we are, full circle. Separated by six years, and within 3 days of him reappearing in my life, another PROPOSAL? Does he still not know what he wants? Is he repeating senior year again? With everything he's admitted tonight, it seems like he's basically been walking around frozen in time back at the train station, so what's really changed for him?

One thing that certainly hasn't changed… Love. He still loves her and she still loves him. So what about the rest? Is love enough?

"When you asked me this question, I'd always hoped you'd really know what you wanted and mean it. Right now, it honestly feels a little like another act of desperation, Finn… maybe for different reasons now, but– "

"NO Rach, no. This is not a knee-jerk reaction or a desperate act this time… I promise it isn't. Y'know, if a few things had gone differently back in Ohio, we would've already been married. We were there at that courthouse, remember? You think I would've changed my mind after seeing you in that dress?"

"I would like to think not, but… things happen."

He shakes his head with certainty, "Nuh-uh, I can promise you, no I wouldn't have… In fact it was you who put the brakes on it. And I understand why. I just.. I hope you don't think I would've bailed on you for like, cold feet, or a change of heart or, or for, for not really loving you. Because in a million years I wouldn't do that to you. OR to ME.. I loved you - love you - too damn much. The only thing that could have - that DID - stop me, was knowing you were willing to give up your dreams and your future for ME, especially when I didn't feel worthy of such altruism. And at the time, there was no other choice I could see… you were supposed to come here and follow your dreams. And now you have. But I always wanted you Rach. You were THE ONE, you were MY one."

She smiled sweetly, but it's bothering her and she has to know for sure. "Finn I have to ask. Your reasons for calling it off and not wanting to come to New York with me back then… what's changed from six years ago? You told me how you left Lima and basically wandered around the country all these years. I'm sorry if I'm making assumptions, but I'm just concerned that you're right where you were before graduation."

"I can see why you'd think so. But no, I'm definitely not that guy anymore. Being on my own for so long taught me alot about myself. I met a lot of cool people and saw a lot of awesome places. I even learned quite a few new trades… So yes, I can survive on my own, I have been doing just that for a long time now. But I know I don't want to anymore, just survive that is." He reaches over and lifts her chin up to look her in the eyes. "And I also know, I don't want to be without you in my life. I could keep going the way I was but in the long run, it wasn't really a life without the person I love most to share it with. I've wanted to reach out to you so many times over the years, but I always figured you'd hated me after what I did and wouldn't want to hear from me again. Because I hated me for what I did."

She's watching his face closely and sees nothing but sincerity. Then again, she knows one thing Finn is NOT is a liar; not just because he's so bad at it, but also because he just simply wouldn't lie to her. The only one time he did was so devastating to them both that he'd learned his lesson. Honesty was always their policy after that, no matter what.

He pauses for a beat and sighs heavily. He sits beside her again and takes her small hand in his large one, brushing his thumb across the back of her hand. "I wish I could have believed in myself back then, six years ago, the way you always said you believed in me. Well now I've had all these years to think about it and try to see myself through your eyes... And I finally understand. I've replayed every moment of us and I realized… Your dreams changed from when I first met you. It wasn't only about Broadway and fame for you anymore. You just, loved me for me, and wanted us to be together, always. It took me long enough to figure it out, but there it is… Like I said, I'm slow, but I learn." he softly chuckles. "As for marriage? Baby I've always wanted to be tied to you in every way - except for the one way that made me that anchor that would've dragged you under. Remember, the star necklace and all…"

"Yeah… You didn't want to be an anchor. Except, you missed the metaphor there. Being an anchor didn't have to be a bad thing. You were always my anchor, but in a good way Finn; you kept me grounded. You taught me about teamwork, and humility, and kept my head from getting too big. You showed me the REST of what life had to offer - family, friendships, love.. things that were - that are - far more important and meaningful than a self-absorbed lifestyle of Broadway and fame. I think I only chased that dream so much for so long because I was missing those things from my life before you came along. Being adopted, no matter how wonderful my fathers were, still didn't change the void of not having a mother and the thought that she'd abandoned me. But eventually I realized, I didn't need Broadway to feel accepted or loved or to be a part of something special; I already had it, all of it, with you. You inspired me in so many ways to be better; to be good like you are - kind, compassionate, open to making new friends and learning how to nurture and keep those friendships. And I've learned something in these years apart from you also.. The only thing I love more than you, is the person I am when I'm with you. You balance me Finn, like my counterweight. My anchor. And Brody's never been that, he could never be that - he wouldn't even understand what I'm talking about right now.. Do you?"

He put his hands on each side of her head and pulled her in for a long slow kiss. He knew exactly what she meant. He didn't need words to answer her question. Although, he still had a question of his own left hanging out there waiting for a reply…

"Rach. I said whatever you want, I'll do, and I meant it. I only mentioned marriage so you'd know, ANYTHING you want, if it's in my power I'll give it. You're calling the shots now. You were always a better leader than me anyway. So you don't have to answer, I just wanted you to know that anything and everything is on the table."

"Yes."

"Yes what, baby?"

"Yes to your question. I want to."

Finn is now the one who's flummoxed. After six years and only 3 days, is this REALLY happening? "No Rach.. you don't have to–"

"I know I don't HAVE to, which is all the more reason I want to. You're right, if things had been a little different, we'd already have been married. And listening to you tonight, I realize that even though we were separated for so long, our tether was still hanging on like the lifeline one or both of us would eventually need. I guess it is real isn't it, our connection? I felt it the moment I saw you at Kurt's. It scared the hell out of me, I didn't think it was possible to just fall right back in love with you after all this time, but the truth is I never fell OUT of love with you. And it seems, you're not any happier without me than I am without you. You said we should let the universe decide… You said it six years ago. And so you're here, in front me now, saying all the same things you said before. You love me, and you want me to be happy. Except now you actually know what really makes me happy - you. Isn't that the universe's answer? I want our happy ending too, Finn. I've waited far too long to get it. We both have."

She climbs into his lap, straddling him, and rests her hands on each of his shoulders. With a watery smile she looks him in the eyes. "So… Mr. Gardener, are you ever gonna reap what you sowed? Are you finally gonna marry me or what?"

His lop-sided grin that was reserved only for her pulled up, then he picked her up and threw her over his shoulder, carrying her squealing and giggling tiny form back to the bed to worship at her temple some more. That's the only answer she needed.

The next morning…

It's almost 11am. Kurt and Blaine are sitting in the living room of their apartment, each with their faces buried in their respective digital technology. Kurt is reading a fashion blog and Blaine is on ebay looking at antiques when Finn comes through the front door.

"Finn! It's about time, I was starting to think you went AWOL and disappeared on me again!"

"Hey little brother. It's all good, no need to freak out. Promise, I'm not leaving."

Kurt and Blaine look at each other and then both stare at Finn; both have inquisitive looks on their faces.

"Ahhh, is there something wrong guys?" Finn's feeling a little uncomfortable, seeing the strange expressions on his brother's and soon to be brother-in-law's faces.

"Well, we're just trying to understand the huge SMILE plastered on YOUR face," Blaine says with a curious grin.

Kurt chimed in, "Yes Finn, what exactly happened with Rachel last night? You were supposed to have dinner and then… here you are, at THIS hour the next day. With this... " he swirled his hand in the air for effect "...this look all over your face. Might I also point out, having lived in the same house with you during senior year, I remember all too well what that particular look usually resulted from. And I believe you still owe me about 100 times over for covering for the two of you. Sooo.. can I assume things went well.. AGAIN?"

"And again, and again, and again, and again…." Finn trailed off and his smile widened further as he closed his eyes, remembering just how well those last few 'AGAINs' went - especially the ones in the shower.

"FINN CHRISTOPHER! She's still engaged you know! … Or-or is she?" Kurt quirked an eyebrow in Finn's direction then exchanged the same look with Blaine, who adds "yeah Finn, enquiring minds want to know. Did you break them up yet or what?"

He blows out a long ragged breath. Finn should have expected this inquisition. But is it ok to tell them yet? He and Rachel didn't really discuss that far ahead. Today is going to be enough of a challenge. They left off with her going to end things with Brody. He'd wanted to go with her but she refused, saying this was her matter to handle, and she would be fine taking care of it alone. Even as he traced over the freshest looking injuries on her shoulders, she assured him she would be okay but would call him if she needed any help. She had encouraged him to go back to Kurt's for rest, insisting he'd need his energy because engaged sex was MUCH better than hate sex and she had plans for him. Finn really didn't feel good about letting her go back there by herself, but he'd already promised that she was calling the shots this time. This was how she wanted to handle things, and he was reluctantly doing his best to respect her wishes.

Finn flops down in the armchair nearest Kurt. "Yes, we had dinner. And yes we talked through pretty much EVERYTHING about us, and cleared the air. And YES she finally came clean and explained to me about this shit with that abusive douchebag." He rubbed the back of his neck and looked to the floor, then peeked up at Kurt. "And yes, she is still engaged…."

Kurt nearly went postal. "Finn! You were supposed to help get her away from him! He's going to–"

"KURT. Calm down. You didn't let me finish. She IS still engaged, but I didn't say to whom." Finn looked at his brother and beamed his full dimple smile, the one that nearly splits his face in two.

Blaine's mouth is hanging agape. Kurt is looking back and forth between Blaine and Finn, not fully understanding, or maybe in too much shock to believe what he thinks he's hearing. "Wait a minute.. what.. OH MY GAAAWWWD! Are you saying what it sounds like you're saying?" Kurt squeals so excitedly he's nearly levitating from the sofa.

Finn clears his throat. "Hey little brother. Uhh.. Would you rather be my best man, or be her best gay of honor?"

Kurt and Blaine scream in unison and explode with excited laughter, then pounce on Finn in a bro-hug pile up.

"But wait, I don't understand.. 2 nights ago was the first time she's seen you in SIX years and I honestly have NEVER seen her behave as bad as that before. She wanted to cut your heart out with a spoon from the looks of her that night. How ON EARTH did you turn her around from ENRAGED to ENGAGED so quickly?" Kurt really can't get his head around this turn of events. "I mean, know I said you were a Rachel-whisperer, but c'mon, there has to be something else at play here."

"No Kurt, I don't know what else to say.. We still love each other. Just because we were apart - and yeah, I hurt her so bad this time - but it doesn't mean the love stopped. Apparently we felt the same way, about a lot of things. But yes, we know we still have things to work on, namely I need to bend over backwards to earn and KEEP her trust. She's probably always going to worry that I'll leave her again. I tried to make my case that it will never happen again, but.. I can't blame her for being skeptical."

Kurt still has a quizzical look on his twisted-up face. "That's true, and reasonable... But how did you go from just clearing the air and deciding you still love each other, to being engaged again so fast? Especially while she's already.. OH MY GAGA Finn, what about HIM? Where is she now?"

"Yeah. About HIM. She insisted SHE will handle breaking it off, alone. Believe me, I'm not happy about it, especially having seen what I've seen…. She's so busted up under her clothes, Kurt, you have no idea how bad it really is.. But maybe it's better to let her handle this because, I really don't want to have to call you for bail money later today."

Blaine speaks up "But Finn, is she SAFE? Is it really ok for her to go do this alone?"

"She promised she would call me if she needed any help. I hate having to sit here and wait to hear from her. But Kurt.. when she's done with that conversation, she's basically gonna be homeless… "

"Tut tut.. She will NEVER be homeless while we're here Finn. Naturally she can stay here, for as long as she'd like. Of course, I may have to soundproof the guest room now, but yes absolutely she can stay here."

"Awesome. Thanks little brother. Listen, I know you guys are going to have a million more questions, but honestly, I'm exhausted. We didn't sleep much.. Or at all maybe…" and that gargantuan smile returns. "Anyway. I'm gonna lay down for a little bit. I should call Puck first to fill him in. But then, ah, I'm gonna leave my phone with you in case she calls… y'know, if I knock out too deeply, you know I won't hear it. Just wake me please if she calls? By whatever means necessary."

"Uh-huh. Just remember you said that." Kurt mumbles under his breath. "Hey, by the way… do you mind if I let Santana know too? She was actually really worried about both of you, and honestly, she IS a big part of why you're back with us and now finally getting the love of your life back."

Finn sighs and realizes Kurt's right. San really did act as the catalyst that brought him and Rachel back to each other and ultimately, their happy ending is sort of on her.. At least in a tiny way. "Sure but.. Oh god Kurt please don't tell her she's a big part of the reason we're back together, we'll NEVER hear the end of it!"

"You think she won't automatically take the credit anyway?"

"Ok.. yeah, you got me there." Finn winces at the thought of seeing Santana again and picturing the life-long gloating he's probably going to have to endure.

"Finn, one more thing.." Kurt walks over to face his brother. "Don't you think you should add Carole to your call list? It's time."

Finn's face fell a little. He misses his mom so much, and has the whole time he's been gone. Burt too. In the short time they'd all lived together before he left Lima, they'd become a real family unit. Burt easily fell into Finn's heart as that missing father figure in his life. But Rachel had become a big part of that family unit too, without her there he just couldn't stand to get out of bed and face anyone. Now that he and Rachel are finally on the right path, the same path together, he knows Kurt is right. It's time to check in with his mother. He hopes she will forgive him.

"Yeah. I know you're right, I will call her Kurt. But I know she's going to have so many questions, and with things happening today with Rachel, I can't be too distracted. But I'll at least check in for now and hope she doesn't yell at me too much."

"Even if she yells, she still loves you Finn. She's your mom, she will understand when you finally get to explain everything."

"Yeah. I hope so… And Kurt, thanks."

"For what?"

"For staying in touch with her, for making sure she's ok. I was such an ass to all of you, to walk out of everyone's life like I did. And I left you stuck in the middle of everything.. Then I ignored you for a year, when you were just looking out for both me and Rach… You didn't deserve that, and I'm sorry. I haven't yet had the chance to say it, but I'm so glad you're my brother - not just glad, proud. If I got to choose anyone as a brother, I'd choose you every time." Finn pulls Kurt in for a hug, as Kurt sniffs his tears back.

"I love you too big brother. And yes, you were an ASS for leaving us like that! And for sticking me in the middle… But I forgive you." They laugh it off together.

. . . . . gleegleeglee * * * * *

Finn heads to his room and flips through his phone contacts then taps CALL on Puck's number. He answers on the second ring.

— "Yo! 'Sup Finnamon Toast Crunch!"

"Hey man. What's going on. You're still in town 'til tomorrow right?"

— "Yep, planned to head out and be home for Sunday. Why, something up? How'd dinner with Berry go? Surprised you're back so soon.. Haha. Unless you're ready for your wingman yet?"

Finn rolls his eyes. "You're hilarious dude. Just cool your jets. Ah… Yeah. Dinner. Dinner with Rachel was phenomenal.. It's actually why I'm calling you. I don't want you to be the last to know again, thought you'd rather it hear it straight from me… "

— "YOU'RE BACK TOGETHER?! I knew you were the Golden Ticket, dude! Told you Berry was still over the moon for you!"

"Yeah man, you did. You called it. I still can't believe it's happening myself, especially this fast… Yeah, we're back together… and.. more than just back together. Ah… So. Do you think you'd still wanna be my best man?" Finn already knows Kurt would end up being Rachel's best - 'whatever' of honor.

There's silence on the other end of the phone. "Puck? You still there man?"

— "You're shitting me. YOU'RE SHITTING ME?" then roaring laughter blares through the phone line, so loud Finn has to hold the phone away from his ear. "You managed to get the ring back on her finger after seeing her what, twice, and after six years? I swear you must have some 'Magic Johnson' moves, you better share your secrets with me too!"

Finn hears the double meaning in Puck's statement but replies "Ahh.. sorry, NO. There's certain things you and me just DON'T talk about, like Fight Club. And me & Rachel's bedroom details are definitely FIGHT CLUB to you."

— "Aww whatever bro," Puck just laughs, "You are still THE man Hudson, you are the MAN! … Uh.. but what about the Doomsday Douche? Does he know?"

Finn blows out a breath, "That's what she's doing right now, going to talk to him. She wouldn't let me go with her, and I'm not so sure she's wrong either, because having seen the results of his 'handy work' I'd probably kill the son of a bitch. Then so much for our happy ending…. They'd be spent with her looking at me in an orange jumpsuit through bullet proof glass for the next 20 years to life, hoping for an occasional conjugal visit."

— "Are you crazy dude? You're allowing her to go there ALONE to face that monster without backup, considering what you've already seen, knowing what he's capable of? What if he— "

"Puck, I have to respect her. She's been in this thing with him for years now. This stuff with me and her, it's still pretty fragile I think, and I gotta do what I can to prove myself. But one thing I think I can see that HAS changed in all these years is her, she's much stronger than before. She's tougher. I guess I can look at that two ways, but either way, I guess that's on me too… But y'know, she feels like she instigated most of their fights, usually because of him not being me. She even said he had no choice but to defend himself sometimes." Finn doesn't suppress the chuckle coming out of his throat at that image of the stitches he needed from the vase in the face story.

— "Finn, dude, of course she's gonna say whatever she thinks you need to hear so you won't worry and go all Braveheart on him and get hurt or arrested. She's doing what Berry always does where you're concerned – protecting YOU, putting YOU first. I don't care how tough or thick skinned she's gotten, she still only weighs about a buck ten soaking wet; you really think she can fend him off alone if HE goes all Braveheart on her? This isn't just a bickering couple fight she's headed into, it's the final countdown to douche doomsday remember? And what if he's all spun out on drugs or something? You're willing to risk her safety?"

Finn sighs loudly and his jaw immediately tightens, as do his fists. "You're not helping me here, man. What am I supposed to do? Go charging in like some crazed lunatic and beat him half to death? Pretty sure that's what I would do and I'm pretty positive it's not what she wants me to do. She didn't want me there for a reason Puck…. She'll call me if she needs me. It's only 5 minutes from here."

— Puck's shaking his head on the other end of the phone. "Ok ok. I still don't like it man, but I know how she can be. Bossy little thing. Well, you know I'm here, call me if shit gets real and you need backup."

"Thanks man, you know I will… Hopefully it won't come to that, because if it does it means she's caught in the crossfire and I will have screwed up again. Not only that, but I'd have knowingly let her walk into the lion's den. Fuck. I should just go over there."

— "Well, like you said you're 5 minutes away.. And you're probably right about the conjugals. Orange isn't really your color either so… I guess don't sweat it unless you hear from her? At least then you can definitely claim self defense.. Haha. Just seriously, don't go without me, if you go at all."

"I promise brother. Thanks Puck. And we'll hang out later before you leave… Talk to you soon."

— "Alright brother man. Take it easy. And congrats again on the Finchel reunion.. I'm happy for you both. Long overdue!"

. . . . . gleegleeglee * * * * *

He stares at her name and photo on his phone display for several minutes before finally having the courage to hit the CALL button. He swallows hard and listens nervously as the line rings.

— "Hello?"

"Hi mom, it's me."

— "FINN?" she starts to cry, he can hear it in her voice but she's trying to hide it. "Finny is it really you? Where are you? Are you ok? Do you need any help because I'll come to you wherever you are and–"

He cuts her off before she gets too hysterical "MOM, mom I'm okay, I promise I'm fine. I'm actually… I-I'm staying at Kurt's."

He waits for the screaming to start but is surprised when it doesn't.

— "Well thank god you're okay.. I'm so relieved. Oh god Finn where have you been all this time? I know you sent occasional emails but Finn, that really wasn't enough. And you could have answered any of my hundreds of messages, or at least called me once in a while.. I was worried sick."

Her voice cracks on 'sick' and Finn feels the hot tears streaming down his face. He feels horrible for putting her through this kind of pain.

"I know mom, I'm sorry. I am, so so sorry I did that to you, and to Burt. But I'm better, things are better now - better than ever actually. There's a lot to talk about - and we will, I promise, but it's not a phone conversation. I'll be coming home to see you soon. I promise, and we'll catch up. I just, I just really needed to hear your voice right now and let you know that I'm okay, and I missed you, so much… and I'm so sorry I hurt you. I hope you can forgive me."

— "Finn.. Of course I forgive you, you're my only son. Doesn't mean I'm not upset, but I'll always welcome you with open arms first. I'm just so glad you called Finny. I missed you too and I love you so much. I'm just so happy that you're ok, and you've come back to us. I can't wait to see you, Burt too, he's been just as worried. We all have. Your room is just as you left it, so you tell me when you're coming home and I'll make your favorite dinner. Oh Finn.. I love you and you can always come home. Please don't ever do this to me again."

"I love you too mom. I swear I will never put you through this again. And I'm really sorry but I need to get going right now, I have some things going on.. but I will call and tell you when I'm coming. I promise, it won't be long. I'll see you soon. Love you mom, bye."

— "Bye Finn, stay safe… I love you too."

He decided not to tell her about Rachel over the phone. That conversation would take more time and energy than he has right now. Plus he's waiting to hear from Rachel and worried that something could be going wrong, especially after talking to Puck. He sends her a quick text to check on her.

:: Hey you, it's me. Everything ok? ::

While he waits for a reply, he wipes his eyes and tries to compose himself. She finally responds

:: Hey, I'm almost there. I had to stop at the theater for a quick minute on the way. Traffic is heavy, I think there's an accident. Cab driver says he can't see too far ahead to be sure. ::

:: You sure you don't want me to be there? I'd feel better if I was at least outside. ::

:: No it's okay, I need to deal with this myself. If he saw you it could make things worse. ::

:: OK. Just please be careful, and CALL ME asap when you're ready, I'll come meet you. ::

:: If you insist.. :) Now stop worrying and please get some rest! I love you. XO -R* ::

:: I insist. And I love you XOXO ;) ::

He exhales a sigh of relief that at least for now she's fine, then takes his phone back out to Kurt. He returns to his room and when he lays down, he's nearly asleep by the time his head hits the pillow.

. . . . . gleegleeglee * * * * *

"Who was on the phone hun?" Burt asks.

Carole let's out a huge sigh, then breaks down sobbing. Burt drops the carton of juice he'd just retrieved from the refrigerator and rushes to console her, "Carole sweetie, what happened? Is Kurt ok, is it–"

"It's Finn! My son is back! And he's going to be coming hoe soon, " she manages between sobs.

Burt gives her a huge hug, "Thank god! Oh honey that's the best news! So these are happy tears?"

"The happiest! And… He sounds like he has some kind of big news, but he didn't want to tell me on the phone."

"Carole are you thinking what I'm thinking?"

"You mean that it may not be much of a coincidence that he's resurfaced now that these Save The Date notices came out? Yes Burt.. I think we're thinking the same thing. I guess we'll see when he gets here… But I think I'll be calling Hiram to check in and see how they're doing just the same… Now please go clean up that mess you made on the floor over there before we get ants."

Burt laughs at her but kisses her on the forehead and does as he's told "Yes dear."

. . . . . gleegleeglee * * * * *

Blaine's just about to win the auction he's been bidding on for the past 45 minutes on an antique armoir and Kurt is still lost in his fashion blog when Finn's phone lights up. Kurt immediately jumps to answer, seeing Rachel's name flash across the screen..

"Hi Rachel it's Kurt, I'll get Finn… Hello? Rachel?"

He's listening closely but all he hears on the other end of the phone is a man's voice yelling loudly in the distance, a few thuds and then it's quiet. He strains to hear what's going on and then he makes out what sounds like a faint whisper.

"Finn… Help…"