AN: Another Drabble for Kurt from the episode "Grilled Cheesus". Inspired by lyrics from "Hello" by Kelly Clarkson.

I walked slowly toward the waiting room, having been asked to leave my father's room as visiting hours had ended a half hour ago. I hadn't wanted to leave but I didn't see where protesting would get me anywhere except in a confrontation with hospital security. Still, I didn't want to go home to an empty house. Mrs. Jones, having been called by Miss Pillsbury, had stayed at the house last night but I had refused her company tonight. She had her own family who needed her after all.

Reaching the waiting room, I settled in the closest chair, crossing my arms in front of me. I knew I could go stay with the Joneses, but I didn't want to impose. What I really wanted was to go home to a not empty house. Wanted a parent to be there for me to tell me that everything was going to be okay.

A shadow falls across me and I look up to see Carole standing there in her nurses scrubs. I forgot she worked here. Without a word she sits down next to me and pulls me into a hug. I don't resist her because Carole is the closest thing I have to a mother figure in my life and her embrace feels reassuring. Sitting there in the waiting room, my father fighting for his life not far away with Carole's reassuring presence I finally let go of the control I've been fighting for. The last couple days have been filled with trying to stay strong and continue on with everyday life and I just can't do it anymore.

More than anything, I want my Dad to be the one to tell me that everything is okay. To reach out and take my hand like he did at my mom's funeral. I want him to be the one to reassure me that I'm not alone.

But I'll settle for Carole because I know she loves my father as much as my mom did and I do. I know that she's hurting too and that right now she's the only one that can come close to feeling the pain I do. The only one that has a chance of understanding.

"Shhhh...that's it. Let it out," Carole whispers soothingly, rubbing my back as I cry against her shoulder.