Cruel Summer Chapter 27 - To Have A Home

Word Count: 6,968/189,000

Rating: PG-13

Summary: After Kurt was rejected from NYADA, we were dying to find out what happened next. We couldn't wait for the September premiere. Here is our take of what happened from the letter opening and beyond.

Author's Note: Wow, we did it guys! Not going to say much cause I will say it all in the epilogue A/N. The chapter is much shorter so I have room. 

Short Disclaimer. Glee: Not Mine. Songs: Not Mine. Wow, I should have done that all along. :P Enjoy! Will hold off on thanks until the epilogue as these chapters will be posted at once.

*****

The gang stuffed themselves until they had to roll themselves away, and afterwards Finn and Sam excused themselves so they could finish the project that Carole had set for them. They were moving boxes from the spare room downstairs to the attic. Kurt wondered why they were going through all that effort. The spare room was a perfect area to store extra stuff. Kurt, Rachel and Blaine went to the family room to hang out on the bed.

After tucking Blaine in, he ran upstairs to his room, and with the help of Rachel grabbed as many DVDs as they could possibly carry. He ran downstairs, dropped the DVDs off on the bed and went back upstairs to get his pillow and duvet. He wasn’t planning on leaving Blaine’s side for several days.

Kurt returned to the living room to find Rachel putting the first Harry Potter movie in the DVD player. “Seriously Rachel, when are you going to admit that you have a problem?” Kurt teased and grabbed the DVD from Rachel. “I’m not sure if there’s a twelve step program for Harry Potter addiction.” He then stopped and looked over to Blaine. The joke had hit a little too close to home, so Kurt changed the subject. “I’m as hardcore as any Potterhead, but I want to watch something different for once!”

He rummaged through his DVD collection and pulled out Love, Actually. He held it up and proclaimed, “I think we should watch this one. We all need our spirits lifted, and it’s just so damn adorable!” 

“Best…movie…ever,” Blaine whispered in awe.

“I know, right?” Kurt squealed and put the movie in the player. “I think I’ve watched this movie so many times I have the whole thing memorized.” He ran to the bed and was about to jump on it when he realized that might really hurt Blaine’s side, so he stopped abruptly, tripped and stumbled onto the bed anyway. He barked his shin on the metal frame.

“Goddammit!!” Kurt yelled and grabbed his leg. He then let out a long string of curses, to the amusement and shock of both Rachel and Blaine. He grabbed his shin and pulled up his jeans, looking at the small dent in his leg. “Why must I be so clumsy lately? Owowowowow!!! Rachel, kiss it better!”

Sam was passing the family room because he was going on a coffee run to the Bean for himself and Finn. He was about to ask if the trio wanted anything when he saw Kurt wipe out and start cursing up a blue streak. After Kurt was done, Sam interrupted, “Hummel, that was totally inspiring! However, this is how you do it.” He then proceeded to let out a minute long string of curses. The most amazing thing about it was that not one word was repeated.

Kurt was nursing his wound – the dent was turning into a nice little bruise – and looked up in astonishment. Blaine and Rachel were laughing at Kurt’s reaction, although Rachel looked more than a little scandalized. Kurt wasn’t fooled by her histrionics. He knew Rachel was a closet curser. Once, during a sleepover at her house, she had dropped something on her toe when she was in her bathroom. The cursing made his ears burn. He also never figured Sam as a pottymouth. 

“And that’s how to do a proper string of curses, Kurt. The trick is not to repeat anything,” Sam instructed. He put up his hand for a high five. Kurt shook his head in amazement but returned the gesture. Sam was about to ask if anyone else wanted anything at Lima Bean when Carole entered the room.

“I heard that, boys! I’m not putting a moratorium on cursing, but you sound like a couple sailors on leave,” she scolded. “It doesn’t look very attractive on you.”

“Sorry, Mom,” Kurt apologized, embarrassed and blushing.

“Yeah, sorry, Mom,” Sam joked with a big grin. 

“Anyhow, here are some snacks.” She turned towards Sam. “Did you mention you were doing a Lima Bean run? I would love a tea if you don’t mind,” Carole requested. At Sam’s nod, she pulled out a 20 dollar bill and added, “Just get everyone something, my treat.”

Sam made note of everyone’s order on his phone and then went to get Finn to help him carry the ever growing list of requests. 

Carole put the tray of snacks on the end table and kissed the top of Kurt’s head before she returned to the kitchen to help Burt clean up. Kurt rubbed his leg one last time, put his jeans leg down and slid to the front of the bed. “Push over, Blaine. It’s movie time!” he demanded.

“Wow, aren’t we pushy?” Blaine joked and slid over. Rachel sat on the other side of Blaine and they grabbed some munchies for later. 

Before they started the movie Kurt put his arm around Blaine’s shoulders and pulled him in for a cuddle, of course being careful that his boyfriend didn’t overextend himself. Having a broken rib was a pain in the ass for getting up close and personal. Blaine snuggled in with a happy sigh. “So, what’s your favorite part of this movie?” Kurt asked.

“It has to be that scene where the dude has the cue cards and stands at the door with the radio. I melt every single time I see it,” Blaine explained. “When I was younger, I dreamt that a boy would do that for me.”

“Is that a hint?” Kurt inquired and raised his eyebrow.

“You asked!” Blaine exclaimed. “I’m just answering your question. What’s your favorite scene, babe?”

“Making me choose my favorite scene is my personal Sophie’s Choice. It’s just about impossible to do so. The entire movie is flawless! So I’m sorry, I plead the 5^th,” Kurt responded and shook his head. At Blaine’s pointed look, he gave an exasperated sigh and said, “FINE! I guess the whole father/son storyline hits a chord with me. You know, cause of my real mom dying and all. And that airport scene has to be the cutest thing ever!!”

“It is adorable, isn’t it?” Blaine asked. He carefully turned to Rachel and added, “Strawberry, what about you? What’s your favorite part?”

Rachel was about to open her mouth to answer when Kurt interrupted, “Okay, I didn’t want to say anything at the hospital, but Rachel, what is with the name Strawberry?” He started laughing raucously. “It’s so sickeningly cute!”

“Thanks, Blainers! I’m never going to hear the end of it now!” Rachel said and gave her friend a dirty look. “If you must know, KURTSIE, it was a name my fathers gave me when I was a wee little thing. You know …Berry …Strawberry…” Kurt stopped laughing and gave a blank look, trying not to break down in giggles again. “’Cause strawberries are so sweet? And my last name is Berry? Kurt, you seriously can’t be that dim!”

Kurt giggled again and put his other arm around his best friend. “You are way too easy to torture, you know that, right? It’s cute. There’s no reason for you to be ashamed at the fact that your nickname is a food item.” He pulled her in for a hug.

“You’re lucky I love you, Kurt. You don’t want me to throw more stuff at your sensitive body parts again, do you?” Rachel asked, wrapping her arms around her best friend.

“The back of my head still hurts because of you, and I don’t want you near ANY of my sensitive body parts!” Kurt quipped. “So Rach, what’s your favorite part of the movie? Spill.”

“Um… the part with the girl? You know. She does that thing?” Rachel answered, looking anywhere but at her friends. 

“There’s like a million girls doing a million things! What are you talking about?” Rachel shrugged and Kurt’s eyes widened. “You’ve never seen this movie, have you??”

“Sorry,” Rachel said quietly.

“It’s a requirement if you want to be my friend!” Kurt exclaimed. “This won’t do at all! You must see the perfection that is this movie! Otherwise you must leave my house, never to return! I don’t care if you are marrying my brother.”

“Well then, what are we waiting for?” Rachel asked and grabbed the popcorn, even though they had just eaten less than a half hour before.

Blaine pretended to wince and whined, “Oh, god, not popcorn! Do you realize how long it took for that popcorn to disappear from my body the other night? I’m putting my foot down this time. The popcorn can be in your mouth or in the bowl, but not down my pants!”

“That sounds slightly kinky, sweetie,” Kurt said and kissed Blaine. “Okay, gleeks, time to watch this damn movie.” He was about to press play when the doorbell rang. “Son of a bitch!” he cursed. “I’ll get it,” he added and jumped off the bed, running to the door and opening it to find Santana with several coffee cups.

“The party can start! I have arrived!” Santana cried and kissed Kurt on the cheek and passed him the tray of drinks. “I just bought random coffee flavors since I wasn’t sure who was here.” She pointed to a cup that had a lipstick stain on the cover. “Hands off that one. It’s mine.”

“Thanks, Tana,” Kurt said. “Sam is actually doing a Bean run, but I really appreciate this. I could use lots of caffeine. Come on in! It’s movie time!”

Santana smiled and took off her jacket, hanging it on the coat rack by the door. She walked in and gave a small squeal when she saw the DVD intro on the screen. “Oh my god, I LOVE this movie. I always thought Hugh Grant was super-hot. That scene where he dances through his house gets me every time!”

“Guys, spoiler warning!” Blaine admonished. “Rachel hasn’t seen it yet! We don’t want to spoil the entire movie.”

“Ah, a Love, Actually virgin!” Santana joked. “So are we all piling on the bed?”

“If you can find a spot, it’s yours,” Kurt said, returning to his position on the bed. Unfortunately, there wasn’t enough room for a fourth person side by side. That didn’t stop Santana, though.

“Move it or lose it, Porcelain!” Santana said and nudged Kurt. When he didn’t move and gave her a dirty look, she shrugged and added, “Suit yourself.” She then climbed on top of Kurt and settled herself in between his legs.

“Wow, personal space issues much, Santana?” Kurt exclaimed and looked over to Blaine. Blaine shrugged but didn’t say anything. He did have a slightly amused look on his face, however.

“Oh, get over yourself, Hummel. We’re all close personal friends here, and I’m not about to molest you, at least not with your phenomenally hot boyfriend beside you,” Santana said in a matter of fact tone.

“You’re incredible, Lopez,” Kurt retorted and shook his head in wonder. He didn’t try to push her away, however. He was trying not to freak out about people invading his personal space. It was part of the new him, after all. He was going to have to get used to more things outside his comfort zone before long. Might as well start now.

“And don’t you forget it!” Santana said and put her hand behind her head. “Pass the popcorn!”

Kurt passed the bowl forward and pressed play on the movie. They got as far as the beginning credits when the door opened. “Arghghghgh!!!!” Kurt screamed and threw the remote down as he sat forward. “Okay, I give up! Who is it now? Should we just invite the entire damn glee club? It might be easier at this rate!”

“Babe, your drama queen is showing,” Blaine teased. “It’s just Sam and Finn with our coffee.” He slowly leaned over and grabbed the remote. “Come here before you give yourself an aneurism,” he added and pulled on Kurt’s hoodie. Kurt grumbled something unintelligible and leaned back, putting his arm back around his boyfriend.

“Are you okay?” Blaine whispered in Kurt’s ear.

“Fine. Just want to watch this damn movie and the interruptions are annoying,” Kurt continued grumbling. He looked over to Blaine. “I’m sorry, hon. It’s been long week and I just want to relax.”

“I completely understand,” Blaine responded and ran his hand through Kurt’s hair affectionately. He had always wanted to do that, but Kurt would always freak out about his perfectly coiffed hair getting messed up. “Let’s just insist we watch this movie. Then we can kick everyone out and you and I can snuggle. How does that sound?”

“Heavenly,” Kurt sighed. “Okay, guys!” he called. “This movie is happening whether you are ready or not. So I suggest you all shut the hell up!”

“What has gotten into Kurt?” Finn asked. “He’s all badass bossy man! What movie are you watching, anyway?”

“Love, Actually,” Blaine responded. “Wanna join us?”

“Oh god no, not a chick flick!” Finn exclaimed. “Rachel makes me watch those stupid things…” He then realized Rachel was sitting on the other end of the bed glaring at her fiancé. He suddenly changed tracks and said, “I’d be happy to join you! Come on, Sam, if I have to watch this, so do you. We can take a break from moving crap around.”

“Oh great… thanks, Finn,” Sam said sarcastically and rolled his eyes. At the look from his friends, he added, “What? I don’t have a girlfriend to make happy! Why should I have to watch it?”

“Just sit down, Troutymouth!” Santana ordered. “You can sit on my lap.” She gestured around the room. “This is called hanging out with friends and spending time together before we all separate. Seriously, what’s wrong with you?”

“Fine, then! Sheesh. I think I’ll just sit on the floor,” Sam said. “If anyone else sits on that bed it’s going to collapse, and I don’t think Burt and Carole would appreciate that.” He grabbed his coffee and sat on the floor at the end of the bed, putting his back against the end of the frame. It wasn’t the most comfortable thing, so Kurt threw him a cushion to put behind him.

“Okay, so does everyone have their snacks? Does anyone need to go pee? Should we all break out into a spontaneous song?” Kurt asked, trying to make a joke but just sounding annoyed.

“Let’s start the movie before Kurt blows his top,” Rachel teased. At Kurt’s dirty look she stuck out her tongue then smiled.

“Whatever, Rachel,” Kurt huffed and pressed play on the remote. He settled back, pulling Blaine towards him. It was nice to just sit around with his best friends and enjoy a movie without worrying about anything else in his life. Right now, any person who was not in this house could just go away.

They spent the next hour watching the movie and making funny comments about various scenes. Sam even tried to dance like Hugh Grant, to the delight of all in attendance. Rachel was getting annoyed because this was her first time watching the movie, and it was confusing enough without the constant interruptions. Finn didn’t care about the movie, so he joined in on the hilarious commentary. Eventually, Carole came into the family room to join them. Finn gave up the easy chair so his mother could have a seat.

The chair was beside the couch so Carole leaned over to Kurt and whispered, “Your Dad went up for a nap, but we would like to speak with you both after the movie. We have some news. Actually, two pieces of news.”

Kurt was munching on some popcorn and looked over to Carole. “Did you find Blaine’s dad?” he asked a little too loudly. Everyone shushed him so he leaned over to speak to his mother.

“Nope. He’s still MIA,” Carole responded. “I think he knows he’s in trouble and is keeping a low profile. As soon as we find him, I promise I’ll let you know, dear.”

“Okay, thanks. Will you join us for the rest of the movie?” Kurt asked.

“Sure. I’ve seen this movie so many times I could probably quote the darn thing, but I’ll stay,” Carole said with a smile. Kurt returned the smile and passed her the bowl of popcorn. He then returned his attentions to Blaine.

“Everything okay?” Blaine asked Kurt. 

Kurt nodded and said, “Yup. Mom and Dad just want to talk to us. I think we might be having a family meeting.”

“Oh. Well, I guess I can wait in your room, then,” Blaine said, putting his head on Kurt’s shoulder.

“Don’t be silly. You’re coming, too. She said the meeting was with both of us,” Kurt responded.

They watched the rest of the movie, cheering when the couples came together and crying at certain points as well. When the scene came up in which the guy was showing the cue cards to the woman, Blaine got a little teary eyed. This scene always moved Kurt as well, but he’d seen the movie so many times it didn’t affect him as much. He chuckled affectionately and passed Blaine the tissue box.

At the end of the movie, everyone got up to have a stretch and use the restroom. Kurt helped Blaine up and asked if he needed anything.

“Would you mind if we put this thing away? I really don’t want to be stuck in bed. If I need rest, I’ll just crash on the couch,” Blaine requested as he pointed to the hideaway. “It’s just making me feel worse lying down all the time. I’m having flashbacks of being stuck in my room while my eye healed.”

“Only if you’re sure,” Kurt advised. Blaine nodded so Kurt called, “Okay, people! Get off the bed! I’m gonna put it away. Blaine would rather just sit on the couch so if you don’t vacate the premises, you become part of the furniture!”

Rachel and Santana were sitting cross-legged on the bed chatting so they jumped up right away as Kurt started folding the mattress into the couch. “When you threw out your fashionable couture, did you lose your patience as well, Porcelain?” Santana snarked.

“Love you, too, Tana,” Kurt said sarcastically.

Once everything was in order, they all sat and chatted until Burt woke from his nap. “We should get out of your way,” Santana said, making her way to the front door. She turned to Rachel and Sam. “Come on, guys, let’s go on another coffee run.” 

Burt had just entered the family room and sat in his easy chair. He noticed Santana trying to leave with the non-family members and said, “Santana, we would really like for you all to stay. You saved Blaine’s life, and that means the world to us. Rachel and Sam are practically family, so they can stay, too.”

“I’m honored, Mr. Hummel,” Santana said, her voice cracking. She sat back on the couch.

“Santana, you know you can call me Burt,” Burt corrected. He looked at the rest of the room. “Okay, so I thought I’d just update you all on what’s going on.” He gave a chuckle and added, “Why do I feel I’m about to make a speech to congress in Washington?”

“At least you won’t put us to sleep, Dad,” Kurt joked. At everyone’s dirty look, Kurt’s eyes widened and he sputtered, “No! I don’t mean it like that. I’m not saying Dad puts people to sleep. I mean the subject matter puts people to sleep!” At the collective side eye, he slid down in his seat and put his face in his hands. “Nevermind,” he grumbled. “This is a bad joke gone horribly, horribly awry.”

Burt laughed at his son and looked at Blaine. “Do you mind me discussing the current situation with everyone?” he asked the curly-haired man. He was being very diplomatic in what he was saying, and the politician in him was definitely surfacing. Blaine nodded, so Burt continued, “Okay, then. Despite an extensive search, we’re still unable to find Blaine’s dad. We think he might have left town temporarily.”

“Well, he does have business overseas,” Blaine responded. “He was supposed to be gone for most of the summer. Maybe he just took Mom with him.”

“A little later we should sit down and discuss your father’s immediate plans. What you tell me might come in handy for the search,” Burt said.

“I have access to his office since I do admin work for him from time to time,” Blaine said. “But I really don’t want to go back there.” Kurt gave him a supportive squeeze.

“You don’t need to. Detective Fitzgerald will be visiting in the next couple days. You can tell him where to find the information, and the police can get a search warrant,” Burt explained. “Blaine, I would never put you in any danger.” He stood up and started pacing. “So, next order of business is Sam. You have the floor, bud.”

Kurt looked at his father proudly. Washington was changing his dad, smoothing out the rough edges. Burt was becoming – dare Kurt hope – sophisticated?

Sam stood up and said, “Thank you, Burt. As you all know, I was supposed to go home next week. Well, I talked it over with Burt and Carole and my parents and I have decided to stay in Lima for the summer. I mean, everyone is going to scatter in the fall, and I want to spend as much time with all of you as possible. I can always go home on the weekends to visit. I guess that’s all I wanted to say.” He then sat back down.

Everyone let out a cheer. “Awesome!” Kurt exclaimed and grinned at Sam a little too over-enthusiastically. Sam smiled back, although he was a tad disturbed by Kurt’s crazy look. “You and I are going to go video game crazy! That’s really great news!” He looked over to Finn as his brother and Sam were practically BFFs. Finn gave Kurt a knowing look as Finn knew he wasn’t planning on being around this summer. 

“Sam, you’re always welcome in the Hudson-Hummel household. We’re glad you’ll be joining us this summer. I should also mention that I offered Sam a part time job at the shop. He’ll be joining Kurt in oil changes and possibly tire changes,” Burt announced. 

Kurt felt a sense of relief. If he was stuck changing oil, at least he would be doing it with a friend. The shop would be lonely, especially with Finn leaving town and Blaine working in the office, which was in a separate part of the building.

“Okay, so the last thing I wanted to talk about is Blaine’s situation. He has gone through a pretty traumatic experience, and we should all be there for him as he works his way through it,” Burt continued. He then addressed Blaine directly. “If there’s anything you need, come to one of us and we’ll be there for you anytime.” Blaine just nodded and grabbed a tissue as the tears resurfaced. He felt embarrassed about breaking down in front of everyone, but he was so touched by the compassion from his friends. He wasn’t used to such attention.

Burt continued to address the rest of the room. “I’ve been quite busy over the last 24 hours. I’ve been talking to doctors, police and my lawyer,” he explained.

“Why were you talking to a lawyer?” Blaine asked. “Nobody is in trouble, are they?” He was worried that his family issues might have gotten one of his friends in some hot water.

“Everything is fine, son,” Burt assured Blaine. “It’s just that since you’re a minor, even if it’s for a few months, Child Protective Services need to get involved. Are you sure you’re fine discussing this with everyone?”

“These are my best friends, Burt. I don’t want to keep this issue from them,” Blaine said vehemently.

“Okay, then,” Burt said. He returned his attention to the rest of the room. “When we first found Blaine in his car, I told the paramedics I was taking temporary guardianship of him. That allowed me to talk to the police and the doctors on Blaine’s behalf. I hope you don’t mind.” 

“Of course not!” Blaine exclaimed. “That means a lot to me that you cared enough to do that.”

“Blaine, you saved my son’s life. Who knows where he would be if you didn’t step in to help him with the Karofsky situation,” Burt said huskily. “This is the least I could do for you. Anyway, the reason I’ve been talking to my lawyer is because Carole and I are interested in having permanent guardianship.”

“What?” Kurt asked, shocked. The rest of the room looked at each other with their mouths open. “Are you serious, Dad??”

“Yup. Of course this is all up to Blaine,” Burt responded and walked up to Blaine, kneeling in front of him. “I know you’ll be 18 in a few months, and then you’ll be going away to New York with Kurt, but we would be honored if you’d let Carole and I be your foster parents until everything works out. There are still some hoops I need to jump through – stupid red tape and all – but it looks like they’ll give me custody. So, what d’ya say?”

“Um... wow. I’m a bit overwhelmed, Burt,” Blaine said and looked over to Kurt. His boyfriend was just starting at him, his mouth hanging open and tears in his eyes. “I just want to say I…”

“If you aren’t interested, I understand, Blaine. We know how important family is, despite everything that happened. I just want you to have somewhere safe to be,” Burt interrupted.

“You don’t understand, Burt. I’m overwhelmed because it’s what I’ve always wanted! Before I met Kurt, I always felt like a part of my life was missing. There was a gaping void in my soul. Once I started hanging around here, I felt like I found my family,” Blaine said, wiping his eyes. “I love you guys so much it hurts sometimes. If you’ll have me, I accept your offer.”

“Then welcome to the Hudson-Hummel family, Blaine. Now there might be an investigation before things become official. Are you okay with that?” Burt asked.

“Anything you need, Burt,” Blaine said. “Oh my god, I can’t believe this,” he whispered and put his hand over his mouth. “Thank you sooo much.” He suddenly reached out and hugged his new foster father. “I don’t know what to say.”

Carole stood and joined Burt and Blaine in the hug. All three started crying while everyone looked on. Kurt just sat there looking at his hands. He was in shock. Never in his wildest dreams did he expect anything like this to happen.

Finn broke the awkwardness by asking, “Wait. So Blaine is my foster brother now? That means he’s Kurt’s foster brother. Isn’t that some sort of weird incest thing?”

“Finn! Not appropriate!” Rachel hissed. “Way to kill the moment!”

“What? I’m just making an observation,” Finn argued. Rachel gave him a scathing look. He shrugged and pouted, “Guess not then.”

Rachel stood up and said to Santana and Sam, “I feel like I’m intruding. Let’s just go into the kitchen and let this new little family have some alone time.” As she walked by, she touched Blaine’s face gently. “I’m so happy for you, sweetie. You deserve so many good things, and this is just a start.”

“Thanks, Rach,” Blaine croaked. He was on the verge of sobbing and was barely holding it together.

After the three friends left the room, Blaine looked over to Kurt. “Babe, are you okay?” he asked. “You’ve been pretty quiet this whole time.”

“How in the hell was I so lucky to get the world’s best family?” Kurt asked no one in particular. “Not only do they put up with all my bullshit, they offer to take care of my boyfriend to get him out of a bad situation. It all sounds like a bad Lifetime movie.” Blaine could tell Kurt’s voice was a little too even. He was very close to losing it.

“Kurt…” Blaine started and put his hand on his boyfriend’s shoulder.

“I’m not saying that as a bad thing, Blaine,” Kurt said and turned to his parents. “Mom, Dad, thank you so much. This is incredible. This is more than incredible. It’s amazing. I just don’t know what to say.” Suddenly he burst into tears. “It’s just… things have been really crappy lately; then Blaine got hurt. This is the best news I’ve gotten all week.”

“What about your internship possibility and the job with New Directions?” Blaine asked. “That was good news, right?”

“Oh, hon, none of that is important right now,” Kurt told his boyfriend. “We can make a decision about the internship at a later time, and my job at McKinley isn’t going anywhere. Right now we all need to concentrate on being a family.”

“Yeah, dude. Welcome to the zoo,” Finn interjected. “I guess you really are a Hudson-Hummel now.”

Blaine carefully stood up. “There’s only one thing I want right now,” he said.

“Anything, dear,” Carole said, putting her arm around her new foster son.

“How about a family hug?” Blaine asked. 

“I think that’s a request we can accommodate,” Kurt said with a smile. He put his arms out and brought his mom, dad, and Blaine in for a gentle hug. Finn was standing on the other side of the room. “Come here, Hudson! You’re part of the family, right?”

“Sorry, I’m just a little shocked at the news. I thought I was just cleaning out the room so Blaine could crash with us for a couple weeks.” Finn responded, shaking his head. He walked over and wrapped his arms around the entire group, being careful because he knew Blaine was injured. He also knew broken ribs were hard to deal with. He saw many of his fellow football players suffer from broken and bruised ribs in his four years on the team. 

Finn was also distracted by the army situation. “I’m torn about the whole thing!” he thought. “I really want to clear my father’s name and I just want to see if I can accomplish something big outside of high school. On the other hand, I don’t want to leave Rachel. She’s the love of my life, but she was willing to defer her admittance for me. That is so not cool! I won’t let her do that if I have any say in the situation. If it means setting her free, so be it. There are times in life when the best thing to just… surrender.”

“Finn, can you please let go?” Kurt asked, invading Finn’s thoughts. “I’m all for family togetherness and everything, but this is ridiculous.”

Finn shook his head and let go, saying, “Oh, sorry, dude. My mind was wandering. I’m going to join everyone in the kitchen.” He then left the room, lost in his thoughts.

“There’s one more thing, Blaine,” Burt said. “I know that you and Kurt are basically attached at the hip, but one of the CPS requirements of you staying here is that you must have your own room. Sam and Finn took all the extra stuff in the spare room downstairs and put it in the attic. I don’t care if you sleep in there or not, but I wanted you to have your own space. Do you think you can make it downstairs? You should see your new room.”

“Oh, wow,” Blaine said. He just figured he would be staying in Kurt’s room. He never expected that they would make him a space to call his own. “I can try my best.”

As they were making their way to the stairs, Blaine asked Kurt, “Did you know about any of this?”

“I swear I didn’t, Blaine,” Kurt responded. “This all came as a surprise to me, too. Interesting turn of events, huh?”

“You can say that again,” Blaine said, smiling at his boyfriend. “We’re living together sooner than we thought.”

They carefully navigated the stairs, taking them one at a time. Blaine was surprised at how easy it was if he was careful. He expected climbing and descending stairs to be agony. It was merely uncomfortable.

Eventually they reached the basement level. On one side of the hall was Sam’s room. That door was usually closed because Sam was a bit of a slob. On the other side was the spare storage room. At the end of the hall was a bathroom. Carole opened the door to the spare room. “Welcome home, sweetheart,” she said to Blaine. “Finn and Sam spent most of the night moving things, and I had them carry down some furniture from the attic to help decorate.”

Blaine had seen this room the day before when he helped Kurt move the garbage bags full of his clothes back upstairs. At the time it was definitely a storage room, with old dusty boxes and various odds and ends. Overnight they had transformed it into a bedroom with a big double bed, a dresser, some end tables and even a small desk. The furniture definitely looked a bit used, but it just added to the charm of the room. There was an old TV on the dresser and Blaine’s laptop on the desk. His duffel bag and backpack sat on the bed. The walls were bare, but Blaine was sure Kurt would change that before too long.

“My stuff!” Blaine exclaimed. “How did you get it?”

Burt reached into his pocket and pulled out a set of keys, passing them to Blaine. “We had your car towed to the shop and Finn got your things last night after we left the hospital. I know it’s not much,” he said.

“It’s perfect, really,” Blaine said and looked around his new room. “Thank you.”

“We’ll leave you boys so Blaine can get settled in. Just let me know if you need anything, dear,” Carole said, kissing Blaine’s forehead. “I’m really glad you’re here.” Then she left the room with Burt.

Kurt sat on the bed. “Okay, what just happened?” he asked.

Blaine sat down beside Kurt. “I guess I’m living here now,” he said, shrugging. “Wait… I’m living with you. What the hell…”

“This is going to be so awesome, Blaine! First things first, though. We really need to get some color in this room. Maybe later I can pull out my palate book and we can look at redecorating,” Kurt said, looking around the room thoughtfully, appraising the situation. He looked at Blaine. “Honey, you look exhausted. Did you want to take a nap?”

“No, I think I’m fine,” Blaine responded. “It’s just shocking information that I don’t think has sunk in yet.”

“Look, let me give you a few minutes alone to get settled. I think everyone wants to watch another movie, so I’ll come get you when we’re ready, okay?” Kurt asked, pulling Blaine up and putting his arms around his boyfriend.

“Yeah, sure. That’s fine,” Blaine said, embracing Kurt back.

Kurt pulled away and gently touched Blaine’s bruised face. “Ouch! That looks like it hurts,” he said. “I’ll run out later and get you some arnica gel. It’s a little tip Quinn gave me when I got a soccer ball to the face in PE once.”

“Babe, it doesn’t hurt anymore,” he said and kissed Kurt gently. “Nothing hurts anymore, now that I’m here.”

“How poetic!” Kurt exclaimed and smiled. “I’ll be back shortly. Love you.”

“I love you too, Kurt. Today, tomorrow and forever,” Blaine said, giving his puppy dog look under all his bruising. “See you soon.”

After Kurt left, Blaine walked over to his duffel bag and unzipped it. He went to the closet and found some hangers and a little cubby area where he could store his things. He put his shoes and bowties in the little cubby and started to hanging up his clothes.

Suddenly he stopped and looked around the room. He never imagined that this week would end with him living with the Hudson-Hummels. He never imagined any of this would happen. This whole week was just so surreal. He walked over to the bed, opened his backpack and took out his diary and his pictures of him and Kurt. Moved by an emotion he couldn’t place, he started singing:

“Home
I've heard the word before.
It's never meant much more,
Than just a thing I've never had.”

“A place.
They say, hey, know your place.
But I've never had a place to even know,
Or a face that I could go to,
If I needed someone there...”

He opened his diary, looking through the entries. His life had changed so much over the last year and a half, and he knew things were going to change even more. As long as he experienced these changes with Kurt and the Hudson-Hummels, he was perfectly fine with it. Smiling, he continued singing:

“I'm laughing
It's hard to hide a smile.
My god, it's been a while,
Since I have had a reason to.”

“To think. It's been here all along.
Somewhere to belong,
And a reason, a something to believe in...
I've finally found it. A place where I'm wanted...
This must be how it feels to have a home.”

He put the picture and diary down, stood, and walked over to the bedroom door, looking up the stairs as he continued singing:

“I used to dream about it!
But never schemed or counted,
On fantasies or wishes.
It breaks a man to see what he misses.”

“And so many nights I'd pray,
For a better life, and a better day.
But I never thought that it'd come true.
It's finally here and I don't know what to do...
And I'm trying not to cry.
This must be how it feels,
To have a home.”

He was about to turn away to return to the bedroom to finish unpacking when Kurt looked down from the top of the stairs.

“Are you coming? Rachel insists we watch at least one Harry Potter movie, and I’m not in the mood to argue,” Kurt asked.

“I’ll be right up, babe,” Blaine responded. “I was just unpacking.”

“Did you need any help?” Kurt asked. “I can come down.”

“No, I’m coming now,” Blaine said, carefully climbing the stairs. Once he got to the top Kurt put his arm around Blaine’s waist and helped him back to the living room. Everyone was settling in to watch another movie. Kurt made sure that Blaine was sitting comfortably on the couch and then sat on the floor in front of him, sitting between his legs. Everyone was joking and laughing. Blaine looked at the scene and smiled, finishing the song:

“I've finally made it.
I've hoped and I've waited.
And for the first time in my life,
I don't feel so alone.”

“My heart starts to heal.
To know this is real.
This is how it must feel.
To have a home!”

Even though Blaine sat with the rest of the gang, he wasn’t really paying attention to the movie. “Wow, what a week this has been,” he thought to himself. “Kurt had a breakdown, I had a breakdown, my father had a breakdown in a big way, and I almost lost Kurt forever. But you know what they say, right? Every story always has a happy ending. And although my story is far from over, this chapter of my life has definitely ended on a good note. I have the best friends in the world, I have a family that loves me and who I love very much, and most of all, I have my soul mate right here beside me. I finally did it. I finally found a home.”

While Blaine was lost in his thoughts, Kurt was having thoughts of his own. “Everything feels like a fairy tale!” he mused. “Who would’ve thought that such a bad piece of news would change my life forever? Yes, things have been super stressful this week, but I think I’m finally starting to figure out who I really am. I’m completely serious when I say I’ve changed, and drastically. It might take a while to get used to, but I think I really like this new me. I’m older, more mature, and definitely a lot more open minded to new experiences. And I have Blaine. I really truly have my soul mate with me. I might have been lost before, but I’m really starting to believe I found myself a new direction.”

Kurt was jarred from his thoughts by Blaine leaning over, despite his broken rib, and whispering in his ear, “Babe, your ears are smoking. What are you thinking about?”

“You know, just us. The future and stuff. Things to come. All the regular things,” Kurt responded and shrugged.

“Me, too. So, cuddle tonight? Your room or mine?” Blaine said and kissed the top of Kurt’s head.

“Let’s hang in your new room tonight,” Kurt said. “I could use the change of scenery.”

“It’s a date, then,” Blaine said quietly. “Let’s continue with this movie before Rachel kills us.”

Kurt smiled and sat back, preparing to enjoy the rest of the movie. He was so glad that despite all the challenges they faced this past week, he and Blaine had gotten through it. Not only that, but they were so much stronger as a couple and as friends. He was looking forward to what would come in the future, because no matter what life threw at them, he and Blaine would make it. Come what may.

***

A/N: Ok, so I have a confession. I love me some Darren Criss, hardcore style. However, I know that there are so many fics out there that use his original music. I was really trying to stay away from that. However, based on how this book ended, this chapter was ASKING for this song. It fit almost perfectly in context. Glee NEEDS to tap into this unused resource and use his songs. Anyhow the song is “To Have A Home”, written by Darren Criss and performed by Harry Potter in A Very Potter Sequel. If you haven’t listened to any of his originals, you all need to rush to Youtube and watch them. So the next chapter is the epilogue and much shorter, but my A/N is MASSIVE. Please read it?