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Chapter 6 :: Home Is Where the Heart Is
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In Ohio...
"I'll help you with the dishes, Carole."
"Oh honey, that's not necessary!"
"Nonsense! Dinner was so wonderful, and it's the very least I can do to thank you for your hospitality, for letting us stay here."
Carole smiled lovingly at the girl she knew would become her daughter in law one day. "Rachel, sweetheart, you don't need to thank me for anything. This is your home too, you know. You're ALWAYS welcome here, you and Camden."
"Thank you, so much, for saying that... and thank you for being so accepting of.. of Cam, but of me too. I'm just so sorry I never said anything sooner, to Finn or to you. I was just so sure you'd both hate me for hiding such a big thing, especially for so long."
"Oh honey, come over here," Carole set down the dirty dishes in her hands and pulled Rachel into a warm embrace. "You poor thing... you went through so much with virtually no one to talk to... I can't even imagine what that felt like. But you listen to me: you are the strongest, most resilient person I've ever known. And you're already an amazing mother, I can tell – but then, I always knew you would be." She pulled back and placed a hand on Rachel's cheek.
"As for worrying about me hating you, you just forget that ridiculous notion. There's practically nothing you could do for that to ever happen. Especially not when I know how much you love my son and how much he loves you. This is YOUR HOME and YOUR FAMILY here, Rachel. I can't even imagine how hard things have been for you, and like Finn, I truly wish I could've been there for you too. But I'm here now, and I always will be. And I could never, ever turn my back on the mother of my grandson – because no matter what science might say, I already know that's who he is. He really is beautiful, Rachel. Thank you so much for finally letting me be part of his life, and part of yours. Burt and I have both missed you so much."
Rachel choked out a sob and threw her arms around Carole again. "I've missed you too, more than you know. You're so amazing, Carole... I'd say I wished you really were my mother, except that would make Finn my brother and um, THAT would be completely creepy and totally unacceptable!" They both laughed hard and wiped away their tears.
. . . . .
While the girls had their bonding time in the kitchen, Finn and Burt sat out on the back porch having a beer as Camden napped in his bouncy chair under the stars in the twilight of the early evening sky.
"Does mom know you have that beer?"
Burt chuckled with mock defensiveness. "Hey, I'm allowed one per week without any argument... She doesn't need to know I sneak an extra one sometimes. Doc says a beer once in a while is okay, y'know, moderation and all. Your mom's great and I love the hell outta her, but she DOES like to keep my diet as bland and flavorless as possible these days. And for cryin' out loud, I already switched to LIGHT beer, so she usually keeps quiet about my occasional ice cold sudsy indulgences."
Finn smiled. "Well, that heart attack of yours did scare the crap out of all of us, and the prostate cancer thing didn't help either... She worries a lot like that, but it's just 'cause she loves you and wants you to be around for a long time."
"I get it. After your dad, I really get it. And I wanna be around too, for her, and for all you boys... You, Kurt, and now this little fella," he nodded his chin toward Camden.
Finn watched Cam twitch in his sleep making his chair bounce a little. "We all want you to be around too, grandpa."
Burt laughed softly. "Grandpa... Wow. That feels weird to hear... how about 'pops'? That sounds a little less like a headed for the nursing home any day title."
"Sure, pops it is," Finn chuckled.
"So..." Burt tilted his bottle in the direction of Camden. "Big changes in a short time, huh son?"
"Yeah. I always hoped me and Rach would start a family some day, I just never pictured it happening like this. But I'll take it... he's a great kid, and I love him already."
"It shows," Burt winked.
"Any advice?"
Burt looked out to the farthest point in the backyard for a long time then looked back at the baby then Finn. "Just... love him. Love him like your life depends on it. Be there when he needs you to be. Be there for Rachel, too. Listen to her fears and her hopes. Talk her off the ledge when she gets crazy irrational ideas and just... support them both. And I know you will, because you already do. You're gonna be – no, you're already a great father, Finn. And I'm really proud of you."
"Thanks, Dad. I hope so, I'm trying to be... I'm not really sure I've earned that kind of compliment yet, though. I mean yeah, I can already change a diaper like nobody's business, and he seems to like when I sing him to sleep. Bathtime is a breeze too, so far... but that's all the easy stuff."
"No... you've already handled some of the hardest stuff, better than anyone I can think of. You don't even know if he's really yours but you're already treating him like he is. And you're dealing with what happened to Rachel with more grace than most people could muster. My god, that poor girl. She okay? I mean, really, is she coping with this stuff?"
"She's... she's doing a lot better now than she was in the beginning, at least from everything I know so far. She mostly seems like herself, but I see little things that are different. There's times when she gets quiet or doesn't wanna cuddle or whatever, and I think I know what's going on in her head, but then I don't wanna assume stuff. It's hard because I wanna ask her, but I don't wanna trigger her or set her off, y'know?"
"Yeah. Sounds tricky. So she's still in therapy?"
"Yeah... Santana said she didn't wanna do it at all in the first place but she forced her to go. I still don't know all the details about what happened with her back then, y'know, right after... It sounds like it was pretty bad though. So I guess she's made a lot of progress since then. I'm... I'm gonna start going with her. To her therapy sessions, that is... Rach asked me to, and I think it'll help us both."
"Wow, that's great Finn. It sure couldn't hurt. You two have had your lion's share of issues WITHOUT all this stuff, so yeah, I think it's a great idea for you to go with her. See? Another thing for me to be so proud of you about," Burt winked as he finished off his beer.
"Well, I just wanna be able to understand how to handle her and what to expect. I've been doing some research and trying to figure out what she needs... but everyone's different. I just need to know how to talk to her without freaking her out, or when to shut the hell up if that's what she needs. It feels a bit like walking on ice on a lake in early winter... you never know where the thin spots are and when you might fall through."
Burt sighed. "I guess that's all part of the chances you take when you commit to a relationship, son. EVERY relationship has those pitfalls; some are bigger than others. You might feel like you're navigating a minefield right now, but even if things blow up – which they inevitably will at some point – it's not about the damage in that moment; it's about the recovery and how you both work to heal from it and put it back together again. You and Rachel have already had more experience in the healing stage than most couples. I think you'll be fine, just as long as you keep talking to each other. And if a therapist helps you do that, well, sobeit."
"Yeah I guess you're right. I just... I never wanna lose her again."
Burt smirked and without looking away from Camden asked "So, how long til you pop the question – again?"
Finn just grinned. "When I know she's ready."
. . . . .
Three days after arriving in Lima, Finn attended his first therapy session with Rachel and Dr Reyes over video conference. It was an awkward thing for him to adjust to at first, spilling his guts to a total stranger, but he understood the importance in his participation for her sake – for their sake. The more he'd thought about it, the more he found value in it for himself as well.
Dr Reyes seemed like a very kind and knowledgeable person who was easy to talk to. Finn immediately found a comfort level with him and understood why Rachel spent so much time confiding in this guy; he was glad she found him as a resource to lean on.
They discussed a little bit of Rachel's progress over the time she'd been in his care and touched on some of her broader concerns for her relationship with Finn. Finn found some of the discussion a little unsettling, especially when they talked about her fears of abandonment and how his actions (including the ones going back to their breakups in high school – most particularly the one after graduation) had only fueled that anxiety, at least in the beginning.
When the conversation veered to Brody and the attack, Rachel fell silent, allowing Dr Reyes to do most of the talking. Her therapist walked Finn through what to expect from Rachel as she continued her path of healing and how to be an attentive, compassionate partner in her recovery. He would occasionally encourage Rachel to open up to Finn on certain issues – most particularly the topic of sex and their physical relationship going forward.
Rachel admitted that for a long time she didn't know if she would ever feel comfortable in her own skin enough to allow anyone to be intimate with her again. It wasn't just a fear of inducing the memories of the attack, but a matter of her own self-worth and self-esteem.
During this session, she told Dr Reyes about the night she and Finn spent together before they left for Lima and how close she'd come to letting those walls down entirely, to possibly opening herself up to having sex again (and Finn turned several shades of red as she gave a rather detailed rundown of their intimate activities; he was unaccustomed to hearing her speak that way at all, much less relaying all the juicy bits of their private experience to a virtual stranger. He reminded himself this was a doctor though, and there was purpose to this dialog).
"Finn I... I want very much to be able to resume our previous levels of intimacy. I honestly do. I just worry that it might take a long time for me to get there, and... and it might not be fair to ask you to wait that long."
Finn was practically offended. "Rachel, if you think the only reason I'm with you is for sex, then–"
"No, no! Of course I know it's not, I just... w-we were very sexual as a couple once, for a little while at least, and... and I think it matters to the health of our relationship to be able to express our feelings, our love, in that physical way. I guess I worry that it won't feel like I'm as committed to you as you'd like me to be if I can't do that yet."
His head shook of its own volition the entire time she spoke, as if his ears couldn't believe they were hearing those words come from her mouth, as if this girl before him didn't know him AT ALL. Clearly she was deeply affected by what happened to her, but he needed to set that straight for her like right now.
He took both of her hands in his and held them tightly, turning to face her, forcing direct eye contact with him. "Rach, baby, everything you're worried about is... uncalled for. Unfounded. I love you, Rachel Berry. All of you. And I know you love me, so whether we express those feelings with a look, or a touch or a shared meal, or a walk in the park, or while cleaning the apartment, or hell, even when we're ignoring each other or arguing, it's all the same. I..."
He huffed in frustration trying to find the words to make his point clear. "Okay, if, god forbid you were in an accident and paralyzed or, or had some rare disease like a bubble boy and had to live in some glass room that I could never lay a finger on you again, I would still love you just the same. I would still want to be with you, to be in your life, and have you in mine. Please don't ever worry that I'd get tired of waiting for something that's just, well yeah, okay sex is awesome and all, but it's not what I NEED to be able to show you that I love you or to feel like you love me. You've been my best friend since we were kids, fifteen, sixteen years old... I loved you then, and I'll love you always, sex or no sex.
"And... at the risk of becoming a broken record, I'm sorry for the way I broke our wedding plans and sent you here alone, I hope you know how much I regret that and ALL my past fuck-ups. I would do ANYTHING to turn back time and find a better way of handling that situation, but please believe me, I never wanted to leave you with this much doubt or fear that I'd just abandon you. Because I won't. Not ever. The only good thing that seems to have come from my royal screw ups is me learning the hard way how much I hurt you AND myself by sending you away like that; it just reinforced how much I want you in my life."
By the time Finn completed his monologue, Rachel was in tears and threw herself into his arms. "I love you so much Finn... I don't think I deserve this kind of devotion and patience from you, but I'm so glad I have it."
He gently held her shoulders and pushed her back so he could hold her face in his hands. "Rach, that's the LEAST you deserve from me. You've done so much for me in my life, you've changed the person who I am and who I'm trying to become... it's because of you, it's for you that I wanna succeed. Yes, it's for me too, but you... you've inspired me in ways I can never fully explain from the first moment I heard you open your mouth and sing. Nevermind all the life lessons you've taught me along the way. So please, please believe me, you MORE than deserve everything I can give you."
"Well you deserve the same from me too, Finn. You always have. I know you never felt good enough for me – which is absurd. You were my only friend when nobody else would be. You saw past my faults and my unique personality and got to know ME, the real me, and you still stuck around anyway. And you've always believed in me at least as much as I believed in myself – which, as you know, that's saying something." They both laughed at that sentiment. "Thank you, Finn. Thank you for not turning away from me, from all of this, for being so patient and understanding. I think – no, I'm certain, I will be able to get past most of the fall-out from... from the attack, in large part because of you. Because of your support and your love. So thank you."
"I've already told you babe, you never need to thank me for loving you. It's my privilege, remember?" With that, she pressed her lips to his in a soft kiss.
Dr Reyes sat silently observing the couple's exchange, occasionally jotting down notes. As they were about to begin deepening their kiss, he cleared his throat as if to remind them they weren't alone and redirected their attention. "Well. You two seem to have this topic well at hand. Rachel, how do you feel about everything Finn just expressed to you? Do you have any other concerns you want to address right now?"
She thought for a moment and smiled softly as she answered. "I feel... fortunate. I feel loved. And any concerns I had, well, I think Finn said it best, they're unfounded." Without ever looking away from Finn's eyes, she added, "Finn is the love of my life, and I know I'm his. And I think in the long run we'll be okay."
. . . . .
A week had passed since their first therapy session together. They'd had two other sessions in that length of time and Finn felt more and more at ease opening up to Dr Reyes. He also felt like he was learning to handle the best ways to help Rachel through her healing process.
Rachel seemed to be far more comfortable with Finn, too, once he began participating in therapy, and they both felt their bond strengthening with each passing day. They'd even had several other heated makeout sessions much like the one on their last night in NYC. In keeping with Dr Reyes' advice, they remained open and communicative with one another at all times, never making assumptions about how the other felt; the key was to talk, to share thoughts and feelings no matter how trivial.
On the bedroom front, Finn always allowed Rachel to make the first move (or to ask him to do so – which seemed to be the new trend) and things were progressing steadily between them. Even without full intercourse, they'd shared some of the deepest, most intimate moments of their entire relationship in the past week and half.
Also in that length of time, Carole and Burt had easily taken to their new roles as grandparents, immediately falling under Cam's spell. Finn and Rachel both couldn't be happier about it, especially Rachel, who never thought she'd see a day where her son would be surrounded by so much love and acceptance by anyone other than herself.
Finn had taken full advantage of this time to really start bonding with Camden and had started learning all his little quirks. He knew the fastest way to soothe him was a certain bouncing-walk while humming or singing to him. He knew he preferred to sleep on his belly with his head facing to the right. He knew how many ounces of milk it would take before he got spit-up on. He loved the sound of his giggles and squeals that reminded him so much of Rachel. And as the days passed, each time he looked at Cam, he saw a glimmer in that baby's eyes that just made his whole heart swell with love and hope and visions of a future he wanted more than anything for all three of them.
"So, Rach, um... I hope it's not too soon to bring this up, but I kinda wanted your thoughts on something I've been thinking about a lot."
"Of course. You can say anything to me, Finn. What's going on?"
"Look, you can totally tell me it's too soon and you're not ready, I'll understand, but... Well. You know I love you. And I'm falling in love with Cam more and more everyday. Or, well, truth is I'm not falling; it's too late for that, I already fell. And... well I don't want you to have to do this alone, to be a single mom – not that you couldn't be, because you're a GREAT mom and I know you could keep going that way if you had to, it's just.., you don't have to. I wanna help. I wanna be there for you – for both of you. I wanna be as much a part of Cam's life as I am yours, as much as possible."
She stroked his cheek and flashed her pearly smile. "I know, and I love you for that. I can see the way you are with him, Finn. You're already becoming an amazing father. But I always knew you would be."
He kissed the palm of her hand, then her forehead. "I'm trying my best. But... when we go back to New York, I wondered how you'd feel about... about all of us living together."
Rachel's eyes widened, surprised he was suggesting such a big step this soon. "Finn, I... are you sure you'd want to be with us full time like that already? I mean, you've only just started to learn what it's like to have a baby around and... what if it's too much? I mean, babies are cute and cuddly, yes, but Cam can be temperamental and sometimes he cries all night, and sometimes I get no sleep and there's nothing I can do to settle him, then I get frustrated too. I couldn't expect you to give up your freedom and trade it for so many sleepless nights or deal with me when I'm–"
"Stop it already. Rach, I already love that little guy. And if crazy Rachel or inconsolable crying sleepless nights was some kinda dealbreaker, you and me would have never made it past sophomore year," he was trying to joke and make light of her obviously paranoid notions. She seemed to catch onto that fact and slapped his arm playfully.
"I would really just like us to get back to our originally scheduled plans for life in New York. Y'know, the one where we live in the little shoebox apartment, all romantic and stuff? I get that we didn't have a BABY factored into that original vision, but we do now, so we're just gonna have to adapt." It wasn't lost on Rachel how he kept saying WE while referring to them having a baby in their plans. Emotions bubbled in her chest as she listened to him plead his case.
"I want to be in Cam's life, Rach. Full time. Twenty-four-seven. I wanna be there for the 2 AM feedings or the fevers and the teething, the baby flu and diaper changes. For first steps and first words. For the terrible twos and holidays and birthdays and the first day of preschool and kindergarten and the tooth fairy. For homework and teaching him stuff about girls and sports and playing drums and helping him grow into whoever he will become. I wanna be there for all of it, Rach."
She thought she should add a little pressure, test his resolve. "It's not something you can just start into then walk away from, you know. If you'd suddenly decide you didn't want to be with me or that you couldn't handle all of this responsibility–"
He laced his fingers with hers and cut off her rant before it could get going. "Quit with the crazy talk. How many times do I have to tell you, I'm yours forever. And you're it for me. I wish like hell I could've been there for you and Cam from day one... but I'm here now. I just feel like I have the chance to be there now and for all the days that haven't come yet, and I don't wanna miss out on any of them. I don't give a shit about DNA test results or whatever, I just... I want us to be a family, together. I WANT to be his dad."
She stared at him for a long beat before leaning her forehead to his and stated simply, "You already are, Finn. So I guess you're moving in with us when we get back."
A wide full-dimpled grin spread across his face as he engulfed her in his arms and captured her lips in a searing kiss.
. . . . .
After a lot of back and forth on the best way to tell Rachel's dads about Camden and everything that had happened to her last year, Finn suggested that she invite them to dinner at his parent's house. It was a little more neutral turf and he hoped Rachel would feel more comforted being surrounded by her newly expanded support system which included Burt and Carole. She thought about the pros and cons but ultimately agreed to the idea.
The Berry men had just returned from their trip yesterday and were thrilled to receive their daughter's call and to learn that she was here in Lima. They were also quite happy (surprisingly to her) to hear that she and Finn had mended fences and had happily accepted the dinner invitation at the Hudmel house.
She didn't feel right at the prospect of blindsiding them with her shocking revelations, so she did offer them a small heads up that she had big news to share that concerned her and Finn. In her mind, she was referring to their moving in together – as well as the 'surprise! you're grandparents' news. It was only after hanging up that call she realized it might have sounded like an impending engagement announcement (or worse, a pregnancy scare).
As the time drew nearer to when her dads were due to arrive, Rachel paced every square inch of the Hudson-Hummel home. Finn finally had to physically force her to sit down with him. He pulled her onto his lap on the couch with both arms firmly gripping her waist.
"Baby, you're pacing holes into the floorboards; mom and Burt won't be any too happy if they have to replace the wall to wall carpet in here. What's going on with you?"
"They're gonna hate me Finn, I just know it! I mean, what kind of horrible daughter doesn't tell her own parents that they have a grandchild?!"
He rubbed her back gently. "The kind who went through a traumatic experience and wasn't herself. Babe, you're not a horrible person; you're the furthest thing from it. They will understand. They love you, and they will continue to love you, no matter what. And they will love Cam, too. You'll see... just, give them a chance to take it all in and try to calm down, okay?" He kissed her cheek and asked "Do you want me to do any of the talking?"
She cupped his cheek and rested her forehead against his. "No, though it's sweet of you to offer. But I-I think they need to hear this from me... Just, be here for me. And if I get stuck, you can help me through it, okay?" He nodded into a sweet kiss and nuzzled their noses together when the doorbell rang.
Cam was down for a nap when her fathers arrived, and as previously arranged, Carole agreed to stay with the baby in Kurt's room until Finn came to get them.
After several minutes of reuniting with her dads, Rachel wanted to get the heavy out of the way as quickly as possible. Finn took her hand in his and sat next to her on the couch while her fathers sat in the adjacent matching arm chairs. Hiram read the body language between the young couple and spoke before Rachel could begin.
"I knew it. You two are finally getting married for real this time, aren't you?"
Finn's eyes went wide with surprise and he nearly choked as he replied "N-no sir, not, no not yet... I-I mean, someday, I hope, but that's not what this is about right now." He squeezed Rachel's hand and glanced at her. "I'm mostly here for Rach as moral support, but uh, she has something difficult to tell you both, and she's been pretty terrified how you'll react, so I'm just asking that you like, give her the space to say everything, and um, trust that it's all gonna be okay. Can you do that for her?"
Leroy looked to his daughter with concerned eyes and reached a hand out holding her knee. "Rachela, what's going on sweetheart? You know you can tell us anything... what could possibly be so bad that you have to stage this dramatic scene?" He knows her diva ways and that drama is nothing new for her, but he could tell something was different in the atmosphere, especially by the tone of Finn's voice.
She took in a deep shaky breath and clung to Finn for strength as she began explaining the events that took place over a year ago. By the time she got past the assault, both her fathers were in tears. Hiram moved to sit next to her wrapping an arm around her shoulders while Leroy knelt on the floor in front of her as they sort of cocooned her in hugs and peppered her with kisses. Finn felt a little like an intruder at that point and made to move out of the way but she gripped his forearm refusing to let him go.
She explained her time in therapy and the progress she'd made, and gave them a few minutes to dry their eyes and compose themselves. After a while when they seemed to be calming down, she nodded to Finn as the signal to go fetch Carole.
"Dad, daddy, there's um, there's more to the story. After the attack, I'd spent months in a deep dangerous depression. Santana took care of me, but I wouldn't even let Finn be in my life during that time. I'd pushed him away, feeling like he'd never accept me again once he found out that... that I was so changed.
"We didn't speak for well over a year, and I just happened to run into him two months ago on the subway. He's living in New York now and well, we've been reunited officially as a couple for a few weeks now. When we go back to the city, he's going to be moving in with me so that we can..." she saw Finn peek in the room and she nodded for him to come in, with Carole and Cam following closely behind him. "So that we can both raise my son together." Both her dads gasped and Hiram's eyes widened as they saw Carole approach with a little blue and green striped bundle heaped on her shoulder. "Dads, I'd like you both to meet your grandson, Camden Isaac."
Finn watched both men as their faces transformed from concern and empathy to total shock. Hiram stood first and slowly stepped toward Carole. "May I?" he asked softly as Carole smiled and handed the cooing infant over.
"Your SON? Rachel, I.. I don't understand..." Leroy began, and before he could say anything more Rachel took his hands and filled him in on the concerns for Cam's paternity.
The dark skinned man sat in silence, staring between Rachel and Finn for a long beat as Hiram gushed over the little bundle in his arms. Leroy stood up and approached Finn, staring him down intensely for a moment. Finn was feeling smaller than Cam right then, worried that he was about to be pummeled to the floor for having ever defiled their daughter (even after all these years he still felt that threat was very real).
Instead, Leroy completely took him by surprise when he gripped Finn by the shoulders and pulled him into a tight embrace. "Thank you, son... thank you for being exactly who we always hoped you would be – someone worthy of our daughter. It takes a man of considerable courage and exceptional character to step up in a situation like this. Rachel couldn't find anyone better to be part of her life, and to bring into our family." He took Finn's face in his hands and locked eyes with him. "You're a good man, Finn Hudson. I'm proud of you." Leroy glanced over his shoulder at his husband and Cam and added, "Take good care of our girl... and our boy. But I already know you will."
With that he turned to Hiram and took in the sight of his grandson. Rachel sat in tears watching the scene play out and Finn went straight back to her side, pulling her to his chest. He kissed the top of her head and whispered so only she could hear, "See, I told you it would be okay."
She nodded and whispered "I love you," then buried her face in his chest. For a change her tears were happy.
After another hour of conversation about Rachel's experiences over the past year and a half as well as her and Finn's renewed commitment and their planned living arrangements, the Berry-Hudson-Hummels enjoyed a home cooked meal by Carole of vegan chef's salad with three bean casserole for Rachel and Burt (much to his dismay), and pot roast for everyone else. Desserts were provided by Rachel, who'd been unable to sleep the night before and had spent all night baking banana bread, apple pie and Finn's favorite double chocolate peanut butter chip cookies.
After dinner, Rachel filled her dads in on the two separate pending legal battles with Brody. The men were outraged by any further victimization of their daughter and pledged their full support for the paternity court case, offering to cover legal expenses for the best family attorney in the state of New York. Burt spoke up at that point, adding that he and Carole would also like to contribute to the legal expenses as well as helping Finn with moving expenses.
Finn had already been researching the law while looking for a good attorney. Santana had provided him a short list of names, and he narrowed them down to three. Hiram and Leroy recognized one of them as a former colleague – Diego Munoz – so it was agreed upon by all that he was who Rachel would meet with.
Later that night once her fathers had left and Cam was tucked in bed for the night (they hoped), Finn and Rachel were enjoying some quiet time on the back porch cuddled on the large yard swing together. It was after midnight but neither of them were terribly tired.
After a small makeout session, Rachel pulled away to look at Finn with concern worrying her beautiful face.
"What's wrong babe?"
"Finn, it just occurred to me, we've told all the family everything now... everyone, except ONE."
"Crap. You're right. But babe, it's not our fault he's off in Paris."
"He's going to be so hurt if I don't tell him, Finn! He's probably going to be more upset than anyone that I withheld this from him for so long... I mean, I have had just a few calls with him in the last year and a half, although they were brief and I always made excuses to not have video chats. But we've texted or emailed a few times too. So in a way, he'd be right to be more upset than you or anyone else; I didn't just hide it from him, I practically lied to his face! Or well, his ears and eyes anyway."
Finn softly chuckled and pulled her back to him, attempting to kiss the crazy away. "Baby he will be fine. Just like I was, just like your dads were... and if he isn't, well, I'll fly to France and kick his ass."
She laughed lightly "You will do no such thing, Finn Hudson. What time is it in Paris now?"
"Babe it's like, the crack of dawn over there, he might just be waking up. It'll keep til tomorrow, you call him in the afternoon once you get some rest. You were already up all last night baking and–"
"Give me your phone, Finn."
"Rach, seriously you don't need to do this now, we can–"
"Give me your phone, Finn. Mine isn't set up for international calls."
He sighed resignedly and complied. "Okay." He knew there was no point in trying to talk her out of this now that her mind was made up.
Kurt answered on the fourth ring practically yelling in the phone "This better be important brother dearest! I was just getting started with my morning ritual and I need to stop for my usual cafe au lait and croissant before I get to the studio or my day will be a wreck!"
"Hi Kurt, it's me," Rachel giggled into the phone.
"Rachel?! Oh my god! Rachel is - is Finn okay? What are you doing with his phone? Is he hurt, was he in an accident and what are you doing back in Ohio anyway–"
"KURT!" Finn yelled, since he could hear the hysterics spilling from the phone from a foot away. "Kurt shut the hell up, I'm fine, Rach is fine, everyone is fine. She's with me."
"I'm putting you on speaker Kurt, so be nice," Rachel said with a smile.
"OH! You mean you're both... dear god, does this mean you're finally back together again?"
"Well yes, as a matter of fact we are. I've missed my best friend. How's Paris?"
"I've missed you too, diva, and Paris is incroyable naturellement! But nevermind all that – tell me how this reunion happened, I need the when, why, and most specifically what the hell is going on that you've decided to call me at this ungodly hour of the morning."
Finn spoke next, asserting that Rachel would explain everything as long as he stayed quiet and promised NOT to freak out. He agreed to the terms and Rachel proceeded. When she was done, she heard much sniffling and likely sobbing come through the speaker and it was quiet for a long beat.
"Kurt? Kurt, say something," Rachel encouraged.
"So.. this means I'm officially an Uncle?!" He finally managed.
Finn rolled his eyes. "Yeah. Congrats, dude." Rachel giggled and lightly slapped his arm.
"Well now I know where my next shopping stipend is going... Do you know they have the most adorable children's boutiques over here! Haute couture pour les enfants! Rachel love, text me his measurements tout de suite!"
"Ahh, okay I'll be sure to do that, Kurt. We miss you. When are you coming home?"
"Hmm... that's a chat for another day. But I was trying to make a trip back for Dad and Carole's wedding anniversary. So, hopefully in another month or so perhaps?"
"Well we look forward to seeing you. By then me and Rach will be back in New York and moved in together. Maybe we can kick San out for a night or two so you can come stay with us for a visit."
"Wait, back in New York... Finn, you live in Ohio... and the last I checked there was PLENTY of room in the loft..."
"Well if you'd call and check in a little more often, you'd know that I moved to the city almost eight months ago, I did a winter transfer to NYU. And Rach moved out of the loft last year, so..."
"WHAT? You're not in Bushwick anymore? But that was my home base too, Rachel how could you move and not tell me!"
"She had other shit to deal with at the time Kurt, cut her some slack," Finn warned.
"No he's right, I should have at least told him that part when it happened. Sorry, Kurt."
"No no, I'm sorry Diva. Finn's right, I shouldn't be so accusatory. Listen sweetheart, you and I need a long chat sesh to talk about these things in great detail... In the meantime, I guess send me your new ADDRESS along with my nephew's size details. I'm sorry Finchel, but I've got to get moving... there's simply no way I will be on time now, but that's okay. Love you both – and we will VIDEO call on my next day off so I can meet my nephew!"
"We love you too Kurt. Talk soon," Rachel said as Finn echoed her words.
"Well that went far better than I thought it would," Rachel exhaled in relief as she handed Finn's phone back to him.
"Yeah. Maybe the distance worked to an advantage... but at least he's up to speed now, so you shouldn't have anything else to stress over for a while."
"Yeah... until we get back to the city. Finn, what if–"
"No baby, we're not gonna do that. We're not gonna worry about the what-ifs and that stupid court case right now. I was serious when I said we'd leave the country before I ever let him get near you or Cam again." he felt the shake of her laughter against his large frame and dropped a lingering kiss on the top of her head. "Now Miss Berry, can we just try to enjoy the last few days we have here in peace, and maybe, let's just go to bed already. You've gotta be exhausted and geez, it's like 1 AM. Cam's been on an early rise schedule lately so I know you're gonna wanna be up with him. Not that mom minds helping out at all, but I know you'll need to pump."
She looked down at her chest and shrugged. "Well these girls got drained out pretty good today, so unless he wakes up in the next hour or two and decides to binge, there should be enough to get him through lunchtime... gosh I can't wait til I'm done with this part."
Finn smiled and whispered "I don't mind this part at all. I think you look sexy and I think you taking such good care of Cam is super hot."
She turned in his arms and gave him a scorching kiss, then looked at him very sternly when she said "You just like my bigger boobs."
"Hey, your boobs are awesome either way, because they're yours... and everything about you is sexy."
She kissed the tip of his nose. "Okay, Hudson. Let's go to bed... maybe I'll let you have a little treat for being so sweet to me."
. . . . .
Return to New York...
Finn and Rachel spent another eight days in Lima, mostly with her fathers so they could bond with Camden too. They'd hoped to be there a little longer, but had to return to the city to meet with the attorney who would represent Rachel in the Paternity case. Mr Munoz was actually a very in-demand lawyer and thankfully it was her connection with her fathers that made him find the time to help her – at an extremely reduced friends and family rate.
Finn also had packing to do and had wanted to get moved into Rachel's place before he had to schedule his final exams that had been postponed from the end of the last term.
Puck took the news of Finn moving out in stride and declared his new living arrangements would mean a way hotter bachelor pad that would see much more action in his absence.
Santana, however, was less than thrilled about the changes.
"Are you fucking joking? This place is tight enough with the two of us and the chicken wing – who I see has grown exponentially in just the few weeks you've been gone, I might add – which in my mind is just further evidence of whose GIANT GENES are coursing through his little body! And with Lurch around, we'll have way too much testosterone all up in here and I'm not sure I can handle that."
"San, you're being ridiculous. Anyway, Finn being here will work to your advantage – less time you'll need to spend on Nanny Tana duty, more time you can spend seeing Dani or going to the clubs. And really San, you've earned the right to regain your social life; at least ONE OF US should be allowed to do that."
"Okay, you make a compelling pro-Daddy Longlegs argument; but he's gonna eat us out of house and home. And he'll drink all my beer."
"Hey! I'm not a crap roommate you know, I wouldn't do that... and I can buy my own groceries including beer AND pitch in for rent and stuff. I think you're mixing me up with Puck!"
"Nope. Puckerman's way worse and comes with his OWN bag of hell in the roommate department. At least I know you have a certain amount of hygiene standards – and for sure Berry isn't gonna let that slack."
"Of course I wouldn't. And Finn is very clean, even his bedroom back in Ohio was quite tidy by most boy's standards."
"Thank you, babe."
Rachel kissed him on the cheek and added, "Lord knows Carole would've boiled him in oil if he didn't at least keep up with the laundry and trash. Oh and dirty dishes."
"Okay fine, I guess you and Lurch can cohabitate or whatever. But I'm warning you, the first time mi precious carmel colored culo hits the rim of a toilet with the seat up in the middle of the night, there will be HELL to pay. I mean REAL actual hell... like I'm talking head shaving, ball chopping, eye gouging retribution."
Finn subconsciously covered his business with his hands and stood behind Rachel whispering "You wouldn't let her do that to me, would you Rach?"
"Of course not, Finn. NOT that she would seriously try any of that either, right Sanny? . . . RIGHT SANTANA?"
"Mmmhmm. We'll see... but I cannot be held accountable for what Snixx does at 3:30 AM when she gets a wet ass from an unexpected toilet dunk either. Just sayin'..."
"Right. Seat down at ALL times. No worries," Finn nodded while giving a thumbs up.
. . . . .
The day after Finn moved most of his personal effects into Rachel and Santana's apartment, he and Rachel went to meet with Mr Munoz. Rachel was mortified to learn that not only does Brody have the right to request that a paternity test be ordered, but if it's proven he is the father, he could further press for visitation and or custody rights.
He also advised that the pending criminal case against Brody does NOT look favorable in the judge's eyes. To help further blemish Brody's character and hopefully prepare a case for why he should not be granted parental rights or visitation, Mr Munoz asked if there were any witnesses either to the assault or to their relationship in general that proves he is unsafe and unfit around children. Finn was quick to speak to that.
"Well hell yeah... Rachel's roommate Santana and I caught him in a hotel room acting as a male escort. He set the hotel date thinking he was meeting some strange woman and getting paid to have sex with her, but he found us there instead. Turned out he'd been a paid prostitute the whole time and put Rachel at risk by hiding it from her."
"That's excellent! I mean, I'm very sorry for your misfortune, Rachel, but the fact that you can produce witnesses that could testify against his character could definitely work in your favor. I'd like to get sworn statements from both you, Mr Hudson and Miss..."
"Lopez. Santana Lopez."
"Yes Miss Lopez. Let's take your depositions right away. Was he ever arrested as a result of this illegal male escort business?"
"Not that I know... I.. I chose not to alert authorities, but that was the cause for me ending our relationship. However, he did mention having been expelled from the school we attended at least partly for that reason. You might check with the Dean at NYADA?"
"Very good. We'll be looking into that as well. But listen Rachel, I don't want to sugar coat any of this to you; typically in a case like this, unless the assailant and potential sperm donor – because I refuse to use the term 'father' in a case like this – has already been found guilty and / or is serving time for that crime, it could be an uphill battle to expect the judge not to at least order the paternity test. The only thing that looks particularly bad for you right now is the fact that the father's name on the birth certificate was left blank. That will be an argument in their favor with the judge."
Rachel blanched at this information but was quick to ask a question. "What if I added the father's name now?"
"Do you know who the likely biological father is?"
She looked at Finn and he tightened his grip on her fingers that were laced with his. "I know in my heart who it should be and the person who I want legally named as Cam's father... and by science, the only other person it COULD be. That would be this incredible man sitting next to me right now."
Mr Munoz smiled at the couple. "I sort of had that feeling, but in my profession, it is never wise to assume anything."
"So... Can I add Finn to the birth certificate now, and can he be tested too?"
"Certainly he should be tested at this point. If we can offer irrefutable proof as to the child's biology – particularly if that person is NOT Brody Weston – then this whole matter is resolved and it all goes away. However, I have to advise against making any changes to the birth certificate just yet, at least not until you find out whether Mr Hudson in fact is the biological father. Otherwise, it could trigger additional legal action on Weston's behalf, since any move you make without medical proof will be called out by his attorney and may look bad on your part."
"Rach, I'll get tested tonight. They can take my hair, my blood, whatever they need." Finn turned to the lawyer and asked "I mean how long does it take to find out the results? And what do they need from Camden to do the test?"
"Depending where you go, a voluntary DNA test is usually a simple cheek swab with a giant Q-tip. The test results should be available to you within approximately three to five days. Now, since this hearing is only four days away, it would be fantastic if we could get the results back before we go into court, but my guess is that we won't. Nevertheless, I'd strongly urge you to do this immediately. If the judge rules for the testing to be done for Weston's paternity, it's likely that a follow-up hearing to discuss test results would occur within seven to ten days."
"That's absolutely no problem, we'll go straight to the hospital from here."
"Excellent. Rachel, I need to prepare you for the worst case scenario, too. If the judge does order a test, there is a chance he will want a blood sample, not just a cheek swab, from both you and the child. If he asks for a blood sample I can try to fight it, but the best thing we can hope for at this moment is that Mr Hudson gets tested and can prove his paternity."
Finn considered how complicated this was beginning to sound and hoped he wasn't in over his head, legally speaking. "Call me Finn please... and uh, should I get a lawyer too?"
"You could if you choose to, however at this point I would say it's unnecessary; right now I am advocating for both mother and child, and as long as she is not objecting to you for paternity, I see no need for you to protect yourself. But it sounds like the two of you intend to raise this child together, is that the case?"
"Yes, one hundred percent," Finn quickly answered and Rachel chimed in with her agreement.
"Good. That's something else we can use in court if it comes to that. The mother – who also happens to be an assault victim – has rights and added protection in the eyes of the court. So does the child. It only strengthens her case if there's a loving family unit and support system around her. The old adage of the courts favoring the mother is often true, but not always and not automatically. But then, in circumstances like these, where an accused assailant is challenging for parental rights, he's not very likely to win. The court will do its best to protect mother and child from further duress or victimization. And Rachel, we could initiate paperwork that would ask the court to terminate any parental rights for Mr Weston just to have them on standby in the event that the paternity test does not go in your favor. Would you like me to do that?"
"Yes, please! I mean, I feel in my heart Cam belongs to Finn, but I have to be practical and prepare for the worst. So anything we can do to shield Camden and to protect myself, let's do it. I desperately wish I'd just named Finn as Cam's father on the birth certificate to begin with, and no matter what, I still want to make that change. Even if he is not the biological father, I want Cam to have his last name, and I already know Finn will be the only father in Cam's life if I have any say in the matter. Can we start anything to make that happen yet?"
"As I said, it would be best to have the science on our side first, but I can certainly start filing the paperwork for a corrected birth certificate. If it turns out Weston is a match with DNA, we would have to move forward with a court ordered termination of his parental rights, and yes, Finn, at that point you might need counsel of your own since you would need to move forward with legal adoption filings. These of course are all worst case scenarios."
"We're wasting time here Rach, we need to go get Cam and get to the nearest doctor's office. I want this done right away. Are you okay with that?"
"Yes. I'm so sorry Finn, I should've just told you so long ago and let you get tested and—"
"Hey, stop apologizing. NONE of this is your fault. We're just taking things day by day right now, one step at a time. Step one, let's go get Cam, step two get us both tested."
"Okay. You're right. I love you, Finn."
"I love you too, babe."
. . . . .
Four days later, Rachel found herself sitting in a courtroom clutching tightly to Finn's right arm with Santana seated on the other side of her for moral support. Carole had flown in the night before in order to watch Camden since Rachel was not required to bring him to the hearing and certainly she did NOT want him anywhere near Brody Weston.
Unfortunately as Mr Munoz predicted, Finn's test results were not back in time for this hearing, so instead of being able to present them in court and file a motion to dismiss the case, they had to move forward.
There was no jury in this matter; it was solely at a judge's discretion whether Camden would have to be tested or not. So Finn, Rachel and Santana attended as a united front and sat quietly listening to the two opposing attorneys battle it out before the judge, hoping for the slim chance Rachel's lawyer would prevail – but from everything he'd explained to Rachel there was more than a 50% chance the judge would rule to have the test done.
"Your Honor, my client was involved in a romantic relationship with Miss Berry for nearly six months. He had lived with her for the last two months of that relationship, a period during which they'd been very sexually active." Finn's stomach heaved and folded on itself as he listened with bitter sorrow at the resulting outcome of his 'set her free' scheme two years ago. He literally swallowed down the bile that choked his throat, regret and shame eating away at his psyche like acid.
They wouldn't be sitting here right now if he'd never made that knee-jerk decision to send her here alone. If he had just gotten on that goddamn train with her instead, or let her defer the year from NYADA like she wanted, or hell, just fucking driven to the damn church like they BOTH wanted to do in the first place, things would be so different. She'd be his WIFE right now, and even if she still ended up alone in New York and pregnant, there'd be NO question of Cam's true paternity because Brody Weston would have never happened.
Finn just couldn't stop the guilty feelings that this was all his fault, so he guessed he deserved being subjected to this misery now.
Between the slight squirm in his seat and the likely sour, twisted expression on his face, Finn's discomfort at hearing all these details must have been plain as day. He'd been clenching his jaw so hard he thought he might actually break a tooth or something, and Rachel easily caught onto his vibe right away. He felt her little hand squeeze his knee gently and he instantly felt even worse; he should be comforting her after all, not the other way around.
He wrapped his large hand around hers on his knee and clamped their hands together, giving her the ghost of a smile in reassurance that he was okay, even though internally a tornado of emotions was whirling through him. He wanted to tell her to just let him suffer, he deserved to be tormented like this and it served him right for hurting her the way he had – even if it wasn't on purpose. He finally forced himself to shove his own self-reproach aside and focus on being the supportive partner Rachel needed and deserved right now. He could wallow in despair and flog himself later.
Mr Munoz stood up to argue on Rachel's behalf. "Your Honor, my client vehemently objects to Mr Weston's assertions that he's earned any rights to the child in question. While it may be true that Miss Berry and Mr Weston were briefly involved in a consensual sexually active relationship, that consent was revoked and the relationship terminated abruptly upon Miss Berry learning of Mr Weston's illegal endeavors as a male escort–"
Mr Tanner stood immediately. "Objection your Honor! There is nothing in Mr Weston's record to support that claim. My client has never so much as been arrested nor charged with any such offenses, therefore these claims are baseless and unsubstantiated."
"Your Honor, we are able to present the written statements of four sworn witnesses who can testify to firsthand knowledge of Mr Weston's former illegal activities, to include an intended former client of his, as well as his former dance instructor and paramour, who claims to have personal knowledge of his illicit activities."
Finn took great satisfaction in watching all the color drain from Brody's face. He apparently hadn't considered that by walking into Santana's little trap at the hotel, he completely incriminated himself in a very well documented way with a woman who was hell bent on bringing him down one way or the other. He also hadn't counted on the fact that Cassandra July would ever turn on him – yet she was the one of the witnesses who gave a sworn deposition on behalf of Rachel. So was the hotel clerk who remembered not only checking in Brody that evening, but could also attest to seeing him meet with numerous other women in that same hotel.
"Counselors, the purpose of this hearing is not to debate allegations of Mr Weston's past crimes; the focus here should be on whether Mr Weston has the right to determine whether he fathered Child X in this case. To that end, without actual police reports or criminal records to support these allegations, I'm afraid your argument lacks proper cause, Mr Munoz, and therefore the objection is sustained."
Finn leaned over to whisper in Rachel's ear "What does that mean? Is that a good thing or a bad thing?" She whispered back "I think it's a bad thing – seems the judge doesn't want to consider his being a prostitute as relevant to this hearing."
"But he is! Or well, was! They can't listen to a male gigolo, especially not one who attacks women!" Finn whispered in Rachel's ear, clearly angry.
"Shh... I know baby, I know, just... let Mr Munoz finish his arguments."
Unfortunately, there wasn't much left to argue after that point. Since the criminal case was still pending, there was no conclusive proof that Brody had in fact sexually assaulted Rachel other than her word stating that he had, and no police records to back up their claims of him being a male prostitute.
The judge ruled that because the father's name on the birth certificate was left blank, the court required Child X – aka Camden – should be subjected to a paternity test. However, he denied any access by Brody to the child based on the restraining order Rachel already had in place and the fact that Brody was still waiting to stand trial for serious sexually violent felony charges.
He did, however, allow for one thirty minute supervised visit with Camden and Blanche Weston, Brody's mother, while they awaited test results. That was the last thing Rachel heard before she fainted.
. . . . .
Her bleary eyes started to flutter open, but things were choppy and fuzzy and confusing and she didn't know where she was.
"Baby! Ra– . . . –ke up swee– . . . come on Rach, open yo– . . . Hey... hey, there she is. . .baby?"
As her eyes became clearer and she was more aware of her surroundings, Rachel snapped up and coiled into a ball, cowering as far away from Finn as she could get.
"Shit. Finn, back off a second, let her breathe. She's freaking out. Berry girl... Rachel, it's me, Santana. Focus on my voice. You're okay chica. Ready, count with me. We're gonna breathe and count, ready? Inhale... 10, 9, 8..."
Rachel focused on Santana's voice and followed her instructions as she began counting aloud. After they hit one, Santana and Rachel both took a deep cleansing breath together and exhaled at the same time, holding hands. Then Rachel started crying, and San wrapped her in a tight hug. "You're okay mami. I got you. Finn's got you too. He's here, do you want him?" Rachel nodded against her friend's shoulder and Tana reached a hand back for Finn, gently swapping places with him.
"Rach, I'm here. It's just me, it's Finn, babe, I'm not gonna hurt you, okay? You're safe."
"Oh Finn, I'm so sorry... I–"
"Shhh, hey don't even worry about it. I'm right here. You're safe and I love you."
As she continued sobbing on his shoulder wrapped in his protective embrace in a small conference room of the courthouse, Finn rocked her in his lap and began softly singing to her.
Hold on to me as we go
As we roll down this unfamiliar road
And although this wave is stringing us along
Just know you're not alone
'Cause I'm gonna make this place your home
Settle down, it'll all be clear
Don't pay no mind to the demons, they fill you with fear
The trouble, it might drag you down
If you get lost, you can always be found
Just know you're not alone
'Cause I'm gonna make this place your home
Finn felt her tense frame begin to soften and melt against him with each line of the tune, and soon she was curled into his chest, fully relaxed.
The paramedics had been called, but Rachel refused treatment. She hadn't hit the ground or hurt herself in any way; Finn had caught her the moment she went limp. For Finn's sake though, she allowed them to give her a quick exam before they cleared her to go home.
Once the three roommates arrived back at the apartment, Finn carried a rather emotionally overwrought Rachel back to her bedroom. Santana greeted Carole who'd stayed at the apartment with Cam while they were gone, then rushed off to the medicine cabinet and fetched a mild sedative and an anti-anxiety pill that Rachel had been prescribed for exactly these situations. She delivered the medication to Finn before returning to the living room to fill Carole in on the day's events.
Finn finally came out to properly greet his mom once Rachel was sleeping. He found Santana gathering together an overnight bag for Camden.
"What are you doing, San?"
"I think it would be a good idea if Mama H takes the chicken wing back to the hotel with her for tonight. I have to work and you have to be here for Rachel. Look, she'll be okay, she's just... she's gone through a few of these episodes before, and it'll just be easier for you if Cam isn't here."
"Yeah what the hell happened to her San, what was that today?"
"Well, the fainting thing I assume was just Berry's usual stress – and maybe she didn't eat enough today because of it. You gotta keep tabs on her about the food thing, only don't let her know you're keeping tabs. She gets pissed. But the waking up and freaking out thing, that's the PTSD in action. She was MUCH worse back in the early days of this nightmare. At some point when we started going to Lamaze, she found those breathing exercises very calming, very grounding. She talked to her therapist about it and he told her if it helps, then use it. So that's what we did the next few times it happened, and it did help her a lot."
Finn didn't realize he had tears streaming down his face until his mom grabbed a tissue for him and wrapped him in a hug. "Honey, she'll be alright."
"I did this to her Mom... The fact that she's even in this situation, it's all my fault. I shouldn't have ever sent her here alone... I should've–"
"Finn stop. I know Berry already told you none of this is your fault, YOU are not the monster. That plastic faced donkey boy caused this, not you," Santana spat at him.
Carole nodded in agreement. "She's right honey, you can't blame yourself. And doing so isn't going to help Rachel either. So... you just need to focus on her right now. I'll take the baby for the night, and you take care of our girl. Okay?"
"Thanks Mom... and I mean I'm good with you taking Cam, but San, will Rach freak out if she wakes up and realizes he isn't here?"
"No, she should be okay. I've taken him to Dani's for the night plenty enough times. I mean, there is a SLIGHT chance she might freak for just a minute, but once she knows he's safe with someone she trusts, she'll be okay."
"Okay, so basically I'll call you if she wakes up in the twilight zone?" Finn chuckled humorlessly.
"She'll be okay, Stretch. You've got this, seriously. I kinda didn't expect her to jump into your arms as fast as she did today, but she's been surprising the hell outta me since you've been back in her orbit. Why don't you go see if Mr Pukemeister is up from his snooze and I'll help your mom get the rest of his stuff together."
Carole smirked at the lithe brunette as she checked though the diaper bag, taking inventory. "I see you've got a few jars of fruit and cereal in here, what about breast milk, is there enough for an overnight stay?"
"Yeah, there should be some extra bags in the freezer too. Berry being the constant overachiever that she is, she always tries to stay prepared for emergencies and pumps extra when she can. Plus in an extreme emergency there's a couple cans of organic formula here too, but I think you'll have plenty of fresh squeezed boob juice to last til tomorrow."
Carole chuckled and examined the Latina as she flitted through the kitchen collecting bottles and other baby related utensils. "Thank you Santana... and can I tell you what a remarkable young woman you've turned out to be? You know, there was a time when I had a much different opinion of you... But it's pretty clear how much you've matured and grown into an incredible, trustworthy, dependable young lady. Rachel is very fortunate to have you as a friend."
Her statement took Santana completely by surprise, and when she stopped in her tracks to think about what she'd just said, she realized WHY the older woman wouldn't necessarily be on Team Tana. "That means a lot to me coming from you, Mrs H."
"Call me Carole, dear."
"Okay, Carole, I can see why you'd be inclined to hate me after what a crap person I was to both Finn AND Rachel in high school... but you know, it was Finn that sort of helped knock me upside my head and snap out of my formerly heinous ways of treating people. And... look, I'll deny it if you repeat it to him or anyone else, but, he's a good egg. You did a good job with him. And if I played for the other team, I'd probably be all goo-goo ga-ga for him too and would've given Berry a serious run for her money back then – at least, until I figured out how meant for each other they really were. I mean, I know I made mistakes - MANY mistakes with both of them, things I wish I could take back. Truth be told, I'm kind of the lucky one to count them as MY friends."
"Well dear, if you HAD pursued Finn seriously, I don't think it would've mattered; Rachel seems to have had him from their first song together, maybe even before he knew it himself. That's what soulmates are made of, and that's pretty much a losing battle to fight against. Even HE had to learn that the hard way."
"Totally – I said you did a good job raising him, not that he was the most clever dude on earth." Carole couldn't stifle her laughter at that comment, but she tried. "But y'know, I think I sort of owe you an apology. I'm sure my crappy high school self created more than a little drama and upheaval in your home life, and for that and for every busted kicked chair you had to replace or sleepless night of loud annoying drumming you suffered, I'm really sorry."
"Oh honey, if there wasn't drama caused by you it would've been caused by half a dozen other reasons... but that's what your teenage years are for, I suppose. Screwing up, tormenting parents, then learning from those mistakes and growing up. Nevertheless, I will accept your apology, and I will again thank you for being good to ALL my kids – including Kurt, whom I know you played a big role in protecting back then. So... thank you, dear. You'll be an honorary Hudson-Hummel for life now, just know our door will always be open to you."
"Well... crap. I wasn't expecting to cry now... thank you Carole, I really appreciate that," Santana said as Carole pulled her into a hug. "What is it with you Hudsons and all this hugging and crying?" Carole laughed hard and pulled her tighter in her embrace.
Finn chose that moment to reemerge from the nursery with a freshly changed Camden hugged against his chest. He looked up and stopped in his tracks, smiling at the scene before him. "Um... What did I miss?"
. . . . .
SONG CREDIT:
'HOME' by Phillip Phillips.
Glee funfact, this song appeared in s4x08 Thanksgiving episode, as a mashup with Simon & Garfunkel's Homeward Bound and was sung by Finn, Mercedes, Mike, Puck, Quinn, and Santana.