So this is the first chapter of a rather long epic that has haunted me in my sleep, and is really bugging me because I've got the biggest fan crush on Darren Criss.

I've written the third chapter already (and it's 17k +!) however, upon reading it back, realised that everyone really needed the back story for it to make sense. I don't know how long it will take me to write the second, but judging by how long this one took, I'd estimate around a week, two weeks tops.

WARNING: This chapter deals with rape, assault and attempted suicide. If these are triggering situations for you, please do not read.

Flames will not be tolerated, and a cold shower will be delivered to your IP address.

Peace out, and happy reading!

MissShawnaAlice xx

Chapter One - Broken:

"'Lo?"

"David? It's Blaine. I'm sorry, I'll call back, I didn't know you were asleep," blathered Blaine.

"No, no it's okay. What's wrong?" Asked David, sitting up in his bed. Blaine choked back a sob, unable to speak. "God, where are you? I can get Wes to come and get you, hell, even I'll drive to get you."

"I'm in New York," managed Blaine.

"What happened?" Asked David quietly.

"K-Kurt broke up with me," gasped Blaine. David sighed.

"Are you able to get on a plane?"

"I don't know. I don't understand what happened," whispered Blaine.

"Okay, I'm ringing Wes, he's been visiting a friend in New York, I can get him to come pick you up. Where are you?"

"Keko Cafe. It's near NYADA, just down the street," answered Blaine miserably.

"Don't do anything stupid. I'm going to hang up and call Wes, and we'll get you back home to Ohio," said David soothingly.

"Please, tell him to hurry," whimpered Blaine. David hung up on him, and Blaine stared at his now-cold coffee. A waitress bustled over, all perk and smile.

"Can I get you a refill?" She grinned. Blaine shook his head, body shaking with repressed sobs. The waitress's smiled waned, and she hurried off, clearly nervous. Blaine sat staring at his phone, hoping, praying that Kurt would ring him, would text him and apologise, explain what was going on.

"Blaine?" Called a familiar voice. Blaine's eyes strayed upwards, and he found Wes crouched in front of him.

"Come on. Let's get you back to Ohio. Where are your bags?" Asked Wes soothingly.

"At Kurt's," sobbed Blaine, breaking down again. Wes wrapped his arm around his little friend, chucking ten dollars on the table for the waitress. He led Blaine out of the tiny cafe and out into the street, pulling his phone out of his pocket. He rang David first, explaining that he'd found Blaine and he'd be on his way to the airport shortly.

"Come on. We'll get a cab to the airport, and we can stop and pick up your stuff on the way," said Wes firmly.

"But I can't! Kurt said he didn't want to see me," babbled Blaine.

"You're not going to see him. I am, and then we'll be leaving, I promise," said Wes. He hailed a cab and bundled Blaine in the back.

"I can't do this," whispered Blaine.

"Where is Kurt's loft?" Asked Wes, ignoring Blaine's statement.

"Spring Street, Lower Manhattan," answered Blaine, watching the buildings pass by the window. The cab driver manoeuvred the vehicle through the streets, winding his way down to Lower Manhattan, Blaine's heart thumping erratically as they neared Kurt's house. The cab pulled up in front of the imposing building, and Wes glanced at Blaine.

"I'll be back in five, okay?" Blaine didn't reply, and Wes climbed out of the cab. He walked inside the building, taking the lift to the top floor, the elevator music mocking the situation. The doors creaked open, and Wes stepped out. He knocked on the door of the loft, the sound reverberating through the large space. It rolled open slightly to reveal Kurt and his own tear-stained face.

"What are you doing here?" Asked Kurt incredulously.

"I'm here to pick up Blaine's bag. That's it," said Wes harshly. Kurt opened the door a little wider before picking up a duffel bag and backpack next to the door, handing them to Wes.

"He slept with someone else," said Kurt simply.

"You didn't speak to him for two months, and he was struggling. I don't care who is at fault here Kurt," answered Wes. He took the bags from Kurt and walked away from him.

"Tell him I'm sorry it ended this way," called Kurt.

"No. Because I don't think you are sorry Kurt. Your life thrives on the dramatic, and this is perfect for you. Goodbye Kurt. I hope I don't see you at the Warbler function in six weeks," responded Wes unpleasantly. Kurt's eyes filled with tears as he watched the former Warbler Council member get into the lift, the doors closing. Wes bowed his head, refusing to look at the taller boy, and waited for the lift to take him to the ground floor, the music mocking him. For someone who had been so in love, he couldn't believe that Kurt was unwilling to listen to the full story, that nothing had happened between Blaine and the other boy, other than a kiss that was unreciprocated by Blaine. He'd told Kurt about the kiss because he didn't want to be dishonest, and because Kurt was the one he loved. The lift doors opened, and Wes headed back to the cab, a light drizzle falling. He opened the cab door and threw the bags in, following after them. Blaine had pulled his knees to his chest and was visibly sobbing. Wes pulled him close and asked the cab to take them to the airport, trying to soothe the distressed boy.

"You'll be okay Blaine. David and I will look after you, don't you worry," said Wes comfortingly. Blaine shuddered in Wes' arms, wishing he could stop crying, wishing that the hole in his heart would magically heal up, that it wouldn't hurt so much. "We'll get you back to David, and we'll fix this."

"How? How will we fix this?"

"How is he?" Asked David quietly.

"I got him home, and into the guest room at my parent's place, and he just collapsed on the bed, sobbing. I'm gonna kill Kurt for breaking his heart, I swear," said Wes venomously.

"Don't do that; we need you here to work out what we need to do, not stuck in jail. His parents got back home yesterday, and they're asking where he is. And you're going to have to go back to university. I'm still here at the moment, supervising Dalton Warbler's, so I can watch out for him. School goes back in two days, and we can baby him through this, get him back on his feet. If I have to, I'll get the New Directions on our side to help look after him. Thanks for picking him up though," said David softly.

"I'd do anything for Blainers. He wasn't really capable of doing anything when I picked him up; he didn't even see me walk in. I spoke to the waitress there and he'd been sitting there for three hours before he called you; she kept checking on him. I've never seen him this upset, ever," said Wes vehemently.

"I'll look after him, I promise. Let me take him home and I'll keep him sorted. Spend some time with your Mom before you head back; she misses you," said David. Wes nodded.

"I'll do that, hang around here for two days and head back late Sunday night. Look after him, please?" Begged Wes. David nodded.

"Don't worry, I'll keep my eyes and ears open for you." David headed up the stairs to the guest room he had frequently occupied when staying at Wes' house, and pushed open the door. Blaine had drifted off to sleep in the middle of the bed, curled up in the foetal position. David shook him gently.

"Blaine, wake up. I've got to take you home to your parents place, but I'll be available if you need to talk at all, okay?" Reassured David. Blaine stood up, hugging himself around his middle, as if holding himself together, and followed David down the stairs, refusing to look up at anybody as they left. Wes glanced at David, and watched as the pair left, worry still etched on his face about Blaine. David unlocked his car and pushed Blaine inside, making sure he was buckled up before starting the engine and pulling away.

"Anytime you need me, just call me, message me, and I'll talk to you. We're going to get you through this Blaine, don't you worry," reassured David. Blaine nodded, leaning his head against the window as David brought him closer to his own home.

"What do I tell my parents? They were barely okay with me being gay, let alone dating Kurt. They'll practically jump for joy when they find out Kurt broke up with me," said Blaine harshly.

"You know Wes and I are here for you; your parents may not be supportive, but we are. We understand, and we'll be here to get you through this," said David seriously. Blaine nodded as they pulled up in front of his house, and climbed out of David's car without a word.

"Call me," said David before pulling away from the curb. Blaine stumbled up the path towards the front door, and unlocked it with his keys.

"Blaine Devon Anderson, where have you been? Your father and I get home from our Japan trip early, and you're not here?" Demanded Pam.

"I'm tired. I'm going to bed," announced Blaine wearily.

"That is not the way you speak to your mother Blaine. Get back here and apologise immediately," ordered Joshua.

"No! I'm tired of people ordering me around, telling me what to do! I'm almost an adult, and you're still treating me like I'm five years old. I'm tired, so I'm going to bed," growled Blaine. He stormed up the stairs, slamming his bedroom door behind him before falling on to his bed and weeping.

The only and only male he had ever really loved had decided to leave him. He hadn't kissed Eli; Eli had kissed him and he'd pulled away, disgusted at the forwardness of the other boy. He'd told Kurt because he didn't want any secrets or lies in their relationship. Kurt hadn't spoken to him for over two months, and he was suffering because of it.

It wasn't for lack of trying. His phonecalls were often rejected, text messages seen but unanswered, and the three parcels Blaine had sent to Kurt were never spoken of or mentioned. It had hurt to realise that even though Kurt was a huge part of Blaine's life, Blaine was coming second or third in Kurt's life, despite the promise that had been made before his departure.

Blaine had learned quickly throughout his life that promises were never kept.

He just didn't know that Kurt would be one of those people.

"Party. Party, party, party. Come on Blaine, I need a wingman. There'll be booze, I promise," said Wes desperately. Blaine sighed wearily.

"Okay, I'll come. But I am not dressing up for this," decided Blaine.

"Whatever. David and I will pick you up in half an hour; you need to get out of the house and get some space," said Wes. He hung up, and Blaine turned to his wardrobe. Everything reminded him of Kurt; his bowties, vests, skinny jeans. He opted for track pants and a hoodie, and pulled a beanie over his fuzzy hair. The thought of putting in contacts hurt, and he pulled out his old pair of glasses, before tugging on his worn black converse shoes. A honk sounded downstairs, and he glanced at the time, not believing that half an hour had passed. His parents had gone to dinner, so there would be no argument from them in his leaving. He jogged down the stairs, grabbing his house keys, phone and wallet before locking the front door.

"It's gonna be the best party Blaine. You can drink away a little of your sorrow, help me pick up chicks, enjoy yourself a little," exclaimed Wes from the passenger seat. Blaine climbed in the back and buckled his seatbelt before David pulled away.

"I don't think drowning his sorrow in alcohol is the best idea," said David firmly.

"No, I think it's a great idea," said Blaine from the backseat. David drove for twenty minutes, Wes changing the radio station every two, and Blaine staring out the window absentmindedly, absorbed in his own thoughts.

Kurt wouldn't like this.

"We're here. Come on," said David. They climbed out of the car, heading inside. David had already been deemed the designated driver for the night to ensure that Wes and Blaine would get home safe.

"Oh my God, that girl is hot! Hey baby, what's a nice girl like you doing talking to a loser like me?" Asked Wes. The girl looked at him haughtily and stormed off, leaving Wes to grin like an idiot.

"I need a beer," said Blaine, wending his way through the crowd. He found the cooler and pulled out two longnecks, popping the caps off before struggling to get back to Wes. He handed Wes a bottle, sculling half of his own before paying attention to the two girls Wes was trying to chat up.

"So, this is Jennifer and her friend Anna, and they're current Columbus Girls students, and both are involved in their drama program," introduced Wes. Blaine pulled off his jumper, mentally trying to follow where the conversation was going.

"I hear you can sing. I'd love it if you could help me out with my musical project," said Jennifer shyly. Blaine looked confused; he didn't remember Wes mentioning anything about his musical ability.

"Unfortunately, I'm in my senior year at the moment, but maybe Wes could help you? He used to be a council member for Dalton's choir program," said Blaine, trying to defer attention back to his older friend. Wes had quickly become absorbed in talking to Anna, and Blaine huffed before stalking off in search of food.

"So? You could still help out," said Jennifer, following him. He couldn't understand this girl, couldn;t grasp why the hell she wouldn't let him be. Then the realisation hit him, and he whirled around.

"I'm gay, just so we're clear. No interest here," said Blaine venomously.

"That doesn't matter Blainey Boo. You're still just as special to me," said Jennifer, giggling. Blaine tried to get away from her, and she kept following him, plying him with beer and food, ignoring his attempts to escape. He felt himself become drowsy, but struggled to focus.

"Come to the bedroom with me," she whispered. Blaine shook his head.

"I can't. I'm gay," he replied, grinning stupidly.

"That's okay. Come on," she said, leading him away from the party. He tried to see if he could find Wes and David, but neither were in his line of sight, and he stumbled over his feet. Jennifer giggled, and dragged him into the bedroom.

"We're going to play a game, but first I need to tie you up," said Jennifer darkly. She pushed Blaine to the bed before tying his wrists to the bedposts, moving to do the same with his ankles. She crouched over him, eyeing him off, before pulling out a pocket knife. She slit open his shirt, peeling away the fabric to reveal his torso.

"You're certainly worth this," she whispered. She ran her hands down his chest, admiring the smooth surface.

"No. Please, stop!" Begged Blaine, his voice fuzzy, mind unfocussed. She slapped him hard, sending him reeling as she undid the ties on his pants, pushing them down. Blaine struggled against the restraints, and she slapped him again.

"I love you Blaine, can't you see that? We're meant to be together!" Jennifer exclaimed. Blaine shook his head.

"Please, get off me! Stop!" He pleaded. Jennifer ignored him, leaning down to kiss his lips. He snapped his teeth at her, attempting to fight back, the alcohol making it hard to focus. She retaliated, biting him on the cheek, and he whined. She stripped herself, pressing her warm flesh against his, whispering in his ear.

"You'll love this Blainey Boo."

"Alright Wes, I definitely think you've had enough. You've been here four hours, and you've not managed to pick up a girl. Time to go home," said David, prying the beer out of Wes' hand.

"So how am I going? I lost my wingman early and I've had to fly solo," slurred Wes.

"You're not going well. Come on, let's go find Blaine and we can head home. You've got tomorrow to sleep off the hangover I know you'll have and Blaine can rest up before school on Monday," said David.

"Blainey? Blainers! Where are youuuu?" Called Wes. Jennifer appeared next to her friend Anna, who handed her another drink.

"I heard retching by the bathroom, and I think I saw your boy go that way," said Anna, taking a sip of her cola.

"Thanks. Come on Wes," said David wearily, dragging Wes through the house and down the hall, looking for the bathroom. He heard sobbing from one of the bedrooms, and pushed open the door warily.

"Hello? Is everything… Blaine?" Asked David incredulously. Blaine struggled against the restraints again. Wes instantly sobered up at the sight of his friend tied to a bed. David crossed the room and quickly untied his best friend, feeling him shake underneath his hands. Blaine shot up, gasping for air, nose bleeding, face scratched, bruises coming up on his neck, wrists and ankles.

"Blaine? What happened?" Asked David. Blaine answered by throwing up on the bed, hiccuping after he'd finished.

"Please, take me home," he whimpered.

"No, I think I should take you to the hospital," said David. Blaine shook his head vehemently.

"Unless you tell me what happened, I need to take you. That bruising looks pretty severe, and I don't know how much blood you've swallowed. Come on," said David gently, pulling up Blaine's pants. Wes shrugged out of his jacket and draped it around Blaine's shoulders, all evidence of intoxication gone.

"You should go Blaine. We'll go with you," reassured Wes. Blaine nodded, and allowed himself to be led from the bedroom, out through the crowd of inebriated people still dancing and swaying to the loud music. Blaine shivered and moved closer to David, trying to escape the terror he could feel. David held him tightly, making it out the front door and into the cool night.

"Blainey? You're leaving?" Called Jennifer. Blaine shuddered, barely holding himself together at the sound of her voice.

"Blaine's not feeling well, and we're going to take him home," said David, not liking the vibes he was getting from the girl.

"I'll come with you, keep my Blainey Boo company," said Jennifer, moving to follow them. Blaine pulled himself close to David.

"Please, don't let her come," he mumbled.

"No, we've got it, thanks," said David, dragging Blaine away.

"But!"

"No," said David sternly.

"Oh." Jennifer visibly deflated at his words. David unlocked his car, ignoring her. She sprinted forward, catching Blaine and slamming his head against the car.

"Love me!" She screeched. Blaine's eyes rolled into the back of his head and he collapsed on the ground, unconscious.

"Shit." Jennifer glanced around, then darted off, her friend Anna close behind her.

"Blaine? Blaine, I need you to wake up," said David firmly. Wes pulled out his phone.

"I'm calling an ambulance; I don't know what he's taken, and she could have hurt him badly," said Wes. David nodded in agreement, still cradling Blaine's head. Wes dialled 911, speaking quickly to an operator, who kept him on the line until David could hear sirens closing in on them. A police cruiser and an ambulance pulled up alongside David's car, and two paramedics jumped out.

"My name's Mel. What happened?" Asked the first paramedic.

"We're not entirely sure what happened before, but one of the girls at the party just lost her shit at him and slammed him agains the car. He hit his head and dropped, and hasn't woken up since," explained David. The male paramedic dropped down beside Blaine's head, trying to check his vitals.

"My name is Michael. Has he taken anything you know of?" He asked.

"He's had a few to drink, but nothing else that I'm aware of," answered David.

"Alright, we'll load him in, get him checked over," decided Mel. She and Michael carefully loaded Blaine onto a gurney, and into the back of the ambulance.

"Which hospital are you taking him to?" Asked David.

"St Ann's," answered Mel.

"Can I come with you? I wanna make sure he's okay," said Wes uncertainly.

"Sure hon. But if we ask you to move out of the way, you need to do it, okay?" Said Mel. Wes nodded, and climbed in the back, holding Blaine's hand gingerly.

"I'll see you there. Do you want to call his parents or should I?" Asked David.

"His parents left this morning for their trip to Switzerland. They won't be back for six weeks," said Wes. Mel closed the back door and headed for the driver's seat. She whipped on the strobing lights and pulled away from the house. David jumped in his car and followed the ambulance, wondering how in the world they were going to pull Blaine out of this one.

"They tried ringing his parents, they're not answering, and they're ringing his emergency contact now," said Wes as David fell inside the ER doors.

"Who's that?" He asked, taking a seat next to Wes.

"I think it's Kurt's Dad," Wes answered, dropping his head in his hands. David sat quietly next to his friend, waiting. Once they'd arrived at the hospital, Wes had been ushered out into the waiting room whilst they examined Blaine, and upon trying to re-enter, he'd been told to stay put until a responsible adult could come and pick Blaine up.

"He'll be alright," reassured David.

"How can he be alright? After everything he's been through this week alone, I don't know how I'd pull out of this, let alone Blaine," answered Wes desperately. David nodded, and the pair settled themselves in for the long haul, knowing they'd have to wait for Burt to get there.

An hour and a half later, Burt Hummel and Carole Hudson-Hummel burst into the door of the St Ann's emergency room, both looking concerned.

"Oh, thank God you two were there. Is he okay?" Asked Carole. David shrugged his shoulders.

"We were kicked out and they wouldn't tell us anything until you got here," answered David.

"It's alright, we'll find out and let you know. Do you want to hang around?" Asked Burt. David nodded.

"If that's okay with you. We just want to know that he'll be okay," said Wes quietly. Carole smiled at the two boys and headed to the front desk, flashing her nurses pass and ID, explaining who she was. Minutes later, she and Burt were being ushered into a private trauma bay, a doctor being found to explain what was going on. Carole pushed the cubicle curtain aside, and found Blaine awake and curled up into a ball on the bed, tears dampening the pillowcase underneath him.

"Oh sweetie," she whispered. She crossed over to the bed, dumping her handbag and coat on the chair, and sat on the edge of the bed. Blaine startled, clearly having not heard her enter, and whimpered a little. Carole didn't say anything, just ran a hand gently through his curly hair, soothing him. Burt stood at the end of the bed, watching the pair as the trio waited for a doctor to come in and explain what was going on. Ten minutes later, a female doctor entered the room, looking sombre.

"You must be Blaine's emergency contact. I'm Dr Naomi Whitman, head of the trauma unit. I took on Blaine's case after one of our other doctors refused to treat when Blaine revealed his sexual orientation," said Naomi sadly.

"Why? What happened to make a doctor change their mind like that?" Asked Carole, knowing that it wasn't common practice for a doctor to refuse to treat a patient due to their sexual preferences.

"Blaine told us that a girl tied him to a bed and did the damage whilst raping him. He and the doctor got into a heated argument over whether it was possible for a female to rape a male, and needless to say, the other doctor has been sent home and I took over. He's got a mild concussion, bruising to the wrists, throat and ankles as well as friction burns, and his nose isn't broken, and we've packed it for now to ensure it stops bleeding. Physically, he'll heal. Emotionally, well, let's just say I don't hold a lot of stock in our police department at the moment. Blaine's reported everything that happened at the party, and the officer in charge just laughed at him. It was horrific," said Naomi shaking his head.

"Can we take him home?" Asked Carole softly.

"Usually I'd want to keep him for a few hours, but you're a nurse and you know what to look out for, so I think you'll be fine to take him," said Naomi, signing a set of discharge papers.

"The sooner he's away from here the better. Thank you for looking after him," said Carole gently. She nudged Blaine into an upright position, and pulled Wes' jacket around him, doing up the zipper. She kissed his forehead gently, and Blaine leaned against her, revelling in her warmth. Naomi handed them a set of discharge papers, and Burt led the way back out of the ER. David and Wes stood up upon laying eyes on Blaine, concern evident. Burt handed Carole the keys and told her to head out to the car before standing to face the two boys.

"What's going on between Kurt and Blaine?" Asked Burt.

"Kurt broke up with Blaine," answered Wes.

"When? Why?"

"Friday, and because Blaine told him the truth about something, and Kurt took it the wrong way," replied David.

"What something?" Asked Burt firmly. Wes and David glanced at each other before sighing.

"A few weeks ago, at another party, Blaine was sitting with a bunch of guys, when one of them took the wrong cue and leaned in and kissed Blaine. Blaine pulled away immediately, explaining that he had a boyfriend, and left shortly afterwards with me. He told Kurt because he didn't want there to be any secrets or dishonesty in their relationship. To be frank with you Mr Hummel, I think Kurt might be the problem here," responded David uneasily.

"What makes you say that?"

"Kurt hasn't spoken to Blaine for two months. No text messages, no Skype, not even a thank you note for the three parcels Blaine sent earlier this month, care packages to help him through the upcoming exam period. Blaine has heard nothing from him, and still flies to New York to tell his beloved about an event that he didn't instigate and walked away from before it became a problem. I don't see what he's done wrong, but apparently, its enough for Kurt to leave Blaine in the middle of a New York cafe with a broken heart," answered Wes angrily.

"I see. I had no idea my son wasn't talking to Blaine, but I should have noticed something when he never asked, never spoke about him during our weekly phonecalls. Thank you for looking out for Blaine tonight; both Carole and I appreciate it," said Burt gruffly, resolving to have a stern word with his son.

"I'm sorry you had to find out this way Mr Hummel, but Blaine's been barely hanging on by a thread these past few weeks, and now, I don't know how he's going to get through it," said David quietly. He pulled Wes to his feet, and shook Burt's hand. "I'll call him tomorrow, see how he's doing."

"Thank you for being there for him." Burt headed out of the doors, and wound his way through the carpark to get back to Carole's car. He opened the driver's side door and sat in the seat, Blaine and Carole in the back.

"We'll get you home and cleaned up," murmured Carole. Blaine didn't look up, hurt radiating from him. Carole glanced up at Burt in the rearview mirror, feeling helpless. Burt started the car, wishing he could somehow change the events of the night, knowing Blaine had already suffered enough in the past twenty-four hours without the added pain from this girl. The trip home was mostly silent, punctuated by the occasional sniffle from Blaine. Burt pulled up into the driveway, noting that Finn's car wasn't there, and that he'd probably gone out somewhere. He stepped out of the car, allowing Carole to handle Blaine. He unlocked the door, flipping on the house lights before traipsing through to the guest bedroom to turn the bed down. Carole followed shortly after, ushering Blaine to the downstairs bathroom.

"I'll grab you some of Finn's clothes to change into after your shower. Towels are on the third shelf," directed Carole. She closed the door, and Blaine found himself alone again. He turned on the shower, making the water as hot as he possibly could. He stripped and stepped under the scalding spray, allow the water to flow over him before the hot tears fell. He slid to the floor of the shower, hugging his knees as he sobbed, his heart broken, body injured. He missed Kurt, missed the comfort he would have brought in such a situation, missed the warm arms that would have wrapped around him and held him tight as he rode out the waves of despair he felt like he was riding. A knock on the door startled him out of his reverie.

"Blaine honey, are you alright in there?" Called Carole gently.

"Fine. I'll be out shortly," he replied, hoping his voice didn't sound as weak and crackly as he though.

"I've left some clothes on the bed for you, and I've made you something to eat. I'll come back and check on you soon." Blaine turned off the shower, shivering at the lack of warmth in the tiny bathroom. He pulled a towel close, and exited the bathroom, a plume of steam following him out. He found the clothes on the bed and pulled them on numbly, wishing he could go to sleep then wake up to find out this night was all just some cruel nightmare. He stepped out of the bedroom, walking down the hall to the kitchen, where Carole handed him a plate of sandwiches and a glass of water.

"You can take some pain pills after you've had something to eat, and then you're welcome to go to bed," said Carole gently, ruffling Blaine's hair. He nodded, and started to eat the food set in front of him. He managed half a sandwich before his stomach threatened to revolt, and Carole handed him two pills.

"Take these, and you can have two more in a few hours. I'll come in and check on you through the night," said Carole softly. Blaine swallowed the pills before standing up and shuffling back to the guest room. He lay on the bed, pulling the blankets up to his chin, turned out the light, and cried.

God Kurt. I miss you.

Monday morning, and Blaine was pulling together the days outfit; track pants, sweatshirt, beanie and ugg boots. He didn't care how he looked anymore, refused to take pride in his appearance. He wasn't ready to; not yet anyway. Carole dropped him off at McKinley before heading to work, and Blaine shouldered his bag, preparing himself for another week of hell. He walked in the front door, and noticed Tina first. He gave her a quick wave, and she turned heel on him, flipping her hair as she went. Artie followed suit, pushing himself down the hall behind her. Blaine shook off the odd sensation, and headed for his locker, needing to change out his textbooks for his first class. Sam and he were locker mates, and they usually shared some sort of banter and exchange before heading to homeroom.

"Hey Sam. Did you have a good weekend?" Asked Blaine, twisting in the combination.

"It was fine Blaine. Not like yours apparently. Why did you have to do that to Kurt?" Demanded Sam.

"Do what?" Asked Blaine, confused.

"You slept with another guy Blaine. Didn't you realise that would upset Kurt? He cares about you, and you throw it back in his face like this. Trust you to do that to him," muttered Sam. He slammed his locker shut and stomped off down the hall. Blaine felt his heart drop a few more inches, break into a few more pieces.

The people he called friends were deserting him.

Blaine pulled out his textbooks and closed his locker, coming face first with two jocks and a slushy.

"Welcome back, slut," sneered one jock. He dumped the slushy on Blaine, laughing loudly.

"No-one messes with Gay Hummel unless we say so," added the second. They wandered off, laughing to themselves, and Blaine leaned against the lockers, sliding down them until he was sitting on the floor.

"Dolphin? What are you doing out here?" Asked Brittany, crouching down in front of him.

"Just needed to rest," lied Blaine.

"You're covered in blue. Lord Tubbington would love to lick you, but he's getting fat," said Brittany.

"Why are you talking to me? No-one else is," snapped Blaine angrily.

"Because I think they're wrong. You're a dolphin, and Kurt's a dolphin, and you're too nice. You wouldn't do what they're saying. Besides, you're always helping me out in English, and a mean dolphin wouldn't do that," said Brittany simply.

"Oh. Thanks Britt," said Blaine, voice thick with emotion.

"It's okay. I think I've got homeroom down here, but Santana took my map when she left, and I don't know how to find things anymore," said Brittany sadly. Blaine pulled himself to his feet, ignoring the sticky wet feeling from his slushy-drenched clothes, and stood facing Brittany.

"You're in homeroom with me. I'll help you get there."

It didn't end after a week. If anything, it got worse. Artie ran over his toes twice in a week, and ran into his shins numerous times, then Sam got the jocks involved more physically. He went home each day bruised and battered, his spirit waning; not that he'd tell Carole and Burt. The two of them had done so much for him, and he refused to be a further burden to them. He ate with them in the evenings, but during the day, refused to let a morsel pass his lips, lovesick and hurt, appetite lost. He quit Glee Club after three weeks of torment and torture, walking into Mr Schuester's office to tell him the news. The teacher hadn't taken it well, but Blaine hadn't cared, wanting to retreat from everything he could. His grades slipped a little, but he stuck it out, trying to maintain them as best he could. Britt was still there, keeping him company and entertaining him where she could, but even she realised that Blaine wasn't Blaine anymore. He kept himself tucked away from everything where he could, but even the jocks found him for his daily beat-up, and Blaine refused to fight back anymore, accepting his fate. Blaine hurt; both emotionally and physically.

He missed Kurt.

He hid himself in Carole and Burt's guest bedroom for the remaining three weeks until his parents had announced their return, and he decided to return home, to get some space. He'd packed his bags, Carole and Burt watching on sadly.

"Honey, you don't have to leave. You're welcome to stay here if you'd like," offered Carole.

"All my stuff is at home, and I have a lot of assignments to work on," replied Blaine.

"At least let me drop you home," urged Burt. Blaine shook his head, shouldering his backpack and heading for the front door.

"Thank you both for having me," said Blaine quietly.

"Anytime you need to stay you are most welcome," said Carole softly. Blaine nodded, refusing to look up at her. He'd lost most of his class and pride since Kurt had left him, and in the six weeks he'd stayed with Carole and Burt, neither adult could recall a time they'd seen Blaine not wearing track pants and an oversized hoodie. He shook Burt's hand and hugged Carole before opening the front door and stepping out into the street. He bowed his head as he started walking to the nearest bus stop, waiting for a bus. The next one that pulled up, he glanced at the board, noting it would take him as far as Powell. He didn't care, taking a seat up the back of the vehicle with his bags in tow. It was a slow trip back, and it started raining, pouring down the windows. Nearly two hours later, Blaine found himself staring at the dark, wet streets of Powell. With no money left in his wallet and his phone nearly flat, Blaine adjusted his backpack on his shoulders before heading to Westerville, finding himself soaked after ten minutes walking. He sighed wearily, bowing his head.

He missed Kurt.

"Blaine? We got home hours ago. Where have you been? And why are you soaked?" Asked Pam, standing up gracefully from the lounge.

"I walked home from Powell," muttered Blaine.

"You could have called us! We would have come and picked you up," answered Pam.

"It's fine Mom, don't worry about it," said Blaine, starting to shiver.

"Oh, you poor dear. Go and have a shower to warm up and get dressed; we're going out to dinner to celebrate," said Pam gleefully.

"Celebrate what?" Asked Blaine.

"Your father got a promotion at work!" Exclaimed Pam excitedly.

"We're going out to dinner with the other corporate members as a celebration," said Joshua, rising to stand next to his wife, wrapping an arm around her.

"If it's okay with you, I'd like to stay home. I've got an assignment due tomorrow, and its not finished yet," lied Blaine.

"Oh Blainey, of course! You're so dedicated to your school work. It's okay, you can be excused," said Pam, patting her son on the shoulder.

"We'll be leaving in twenty minutes, and you can have the house to yourself to finish that assignment," assured Josh. Blaine nodded, and headed for the stairs, desperate to take off his soaked outfit and get warm again. He dropped his backpack on his bed and walked into the ensuite, turning on the shower as hot as he could bear, stripping his clothes and dumping them in the hamper.

He couldn't do this anymore.

He allowed the water to fall over him, washing away the cold rain. He needed an out. He couldn't cope anymore, and he knew it. He turned off the water, and dripped over to the towel rack, pulling one of them toward him, drying himself off. He wandered into his room, pulling out a shirt and his trademark red pants. He tugged them on carefully, selecting a bowtie from the top drawer and doing it up slowly.

He couldn't do this anymore.

He pulled his phone toward him, and tapped out the last message he ever wanted to send.

David.

I'm sorry for dragging you into this, sorry for making you and Wes have to deal with me at my worst. I'm sorry that I'm incapable of dealing with anything by myself anymore.

I miss Kurt. And I can't do this anymore. I'm sorry.

I'm so sorry.

David picked up his phone from his bed as it tried to vibrate its way to the edge, wondering who would be messaging him late at night. When Blaine's name appeared on the screen, he smiled, unlocking the screen. As he scanned through the message, his face dropped in horror, and he instantly dialled Blaine's number.

"Pick up. Pick up, pick up, pick up," begged David, tumbling off his bed and slipping on a pair of shoes. He grabbed his jacket and his keys and headed for his father's office, still holding the phone to his ear.

"Dad, I need your help. I think Blaine's in trouble," said David, voice tight. He may be an adult in college, but right now, he needed the guidance of someone older and wiser than him.

"Is he not answering?" Asked James. David shook his head.

"He sent me a message, and it was so unlike Blaine to send it to me. I'm really worried about him Dad; he's not been in the best of places since that party nearly six weeks ago," explained David.

"I'll go with you. Come on, let's go," said James, taking the car keys from his son. They clattered down the stairs into the garage, jumping into their car and reversing into the street.

"Try him again," directed James, focusing on the road. David dialled Blaine's number, freaking out internally, hoping they'd arrive at Blaine's house and find him asleep. It rang out, the voicemail not kicking in to take a message.

"Still no answer, and his voicemail is off as well," reported David. James took a hard left, pulling into Blaine's street, the streetlights casting a stark mood across the road. James pulled into Blaine's driveway, and David jumped out.

"Blaine? Blaine! Open the door!" Called David, thumping his fist on the front door. James stood behind his son and scrabbled around the pot plants at the front door, before standing up straight, triumphant.

"You should always keep a key near the front door," said James, reaching around his son to unlock the front door. David launched himself inside the door, sprinting up the stairs to Blaine's room.

"Blaine? Blaine, wake u - oh God, Dad you need to call an ambulance!" Screamed David. He grabbed the discarded towel from the floor, wrapping it around Blaine's arms, trying to stem the flow of blood from the deep lacerations through his flesh. James was beside David instantly, phone sandwiched between his ear and shoulder, talking calmly to the emergency operator. David was shaking, fear of losing his best friend coursing through him, wondering where on earth he missed the signs. He lost track of time for a moment, glancing up when a paramedic was trying to get him to let go of Blaine's arms so they could take over, and all of a sudden he found himself wrapped up in his father's comforting arms.

"I don't understand. I don't understand," murmured David. James held him tight.

"Neither do I son. Neither do I."

"He's on a seventy-two hour psychiatric hold," said Joshua Anderson, returning to the hospital waiting room, David and James waiting with Pam as she paced nervously.

"I don't understand how this happened! He was fine when we left him to go to dinner," exclaimed Pam.

"You do know he's broken up with Kurt, right?" Asked David slowly.

"Oh, thank God, now he can find himself a nice girl to date," responded Joshua, relief evident on his face.

"No! Blaine is gay. In case you've forgotten, it means he's not interested in girls. He was raped by a girl six weeks ago," spat David angrily.

"Honey, I'm not feeling well. I don't think I can handle this drama," said Pam suddenly.

"I'll come back and sort this out later. I'll take you home darling. Cooper was never this much trouble," muttered Joshua, leading his wife out of the hospital, leaving David standing with his father.

"I need to call Wes. And then I need to talk to the New Directions," said David, brain scattered. It had been eleven at night when they found Blaine, and it was nearing five in the morning now. James laid a gentle hand on David's shoulder, squeezing him softly.

"Let's go home first, you can get dressed, have something to eat and wrap your head around all of this. Come on, they won't let you see him for a little while," said James quietly, ushering his son out the door towards the car. David nodded, and took the front passenger seat, resting his head against the window as his father drove home. He was struggling to understand how Blaine had gotten that low, and he felt that he needed some back-up from friends to help work. James pulled up into their driveway, and David got out blindly, mind a thousand miles away.

"You handled a very troubling situation very well today, and I'm very proud of you," said James quietly, hugging his son briefly.

"Thank you Dad. Thanks for coming with me," replied David softly. He pulled away from his father and headed inside, pulling out his phone as he went, dialling a well used number.

"Wes? I don't care if you have to hijack a jetpack from somewhere, but I need you back here as soon as possible. Blaine's in trouble."

Two hours later, David found himself sitting in his living room, Wes, Thad, and Trent all watching him.

"It's gotta be an emergency if you've pulled us from all across state," said Thad suddenly.

"And where's Blaine? If we're having a Warbler reunion, he should be here. Nick and Jeff wanted to be, but they're at some competition and couldn't leave," added Trent. David sighed heavily, before finally looking up at his friends.

"Blaine's in hospital on a seventy-two hour psychiatric hold," started David.

"What? No! How?" Exclaimed Trent, his round face concerned.

"It's a bit of a long story, but over six weeks ago, Kurt and Blaine broke up. It was messy, and Wes had to pick Blaine up from the middle of New York, but we got him home. The next night, in an effort to distract him from everything, we took him to a party."

"It was the worst thing we could have done. Some nut job of a girl had latched herself onto him, and we lost track of him for nearly four hours before we found him tied to a bed, almost completely naked," interrupted Wes.

"He was so upset; his parents had just left for Switzerland, and his emergency contact was listed as Mr Hummel," said David.

"They were looking after him, making sure he went to school, and I didn't even know he'd returned to Westerville until I got a message from him last night, telling me he was sorry for burdening me. I kept trying to ring him to find out what was going on, and he wouldn't answer the phone. I found him on his bed last night, bleeding out from his arms after he'd sliced them open," admitted David, feeling himself tense as he relived the moment of finding his best friend bleeding out.

"So what are we going to do to fix this?" Asked Thad, reclining on the sofa.

"I honestly thought he would be okay with New Directions looking out for him, but something happened. I don't think they're on his side anymore," said David.

"What time do they rehearse?" Asked Wes.

"Usually afternoon, but it's Thursday, and I know they rehearse in third period," answered David.

"We're going over today. I know Blaine isn't a Warbler anymore, but hell, once a Warbler, always a Warbler," decided Trent. David nodded, and glanced at the time.

"If we start driving now, we should be there in time to make their rehearsal," added Wes.

"Let's go. I want to know what these Glee Club members did to isolate Blaine," decided David. The four of them piled into David's car, and spent the two hour drive to Lima singing along to a Katy Perry album. David enjoyed the company of the three ex-Warblers, but still missed the fifth voice of Blaine. He pulled into the teacher carpark at McKinley and turned to face the other three.

"Let's do this; for Blaine." The other three nodded and got out of the car, following David down the hall. David knew the way; he'd been there twice before. Students parted ways, allowing the four imposing adults to march through the halls to the choir room. David turned a corner and found the members of New Directions fooling around, some singing, a few throwing a paper airplane, and a blonde cheerleader standing in the corner, head bowed as if in disgrace.

"Alright guys, we've got regional - oh. What's going on?" Asked Will Schuester, glancing at the four ex-Warblers.

"We wanted to talk to all of you about Blaine Anderson. If that is okay with you," said David diplomatically. Will nodded, indicating for them to take the floor. Wes pulled chairs forward for them all, and indicated for the New Directions members to move closer.

"I'm Wes Liang, this is David Miller, Thad Beaufort and Trent Walker, and for those who haven't met us previously, we were members of the Dalton Academy Warblers. You'd probably know us as friends of Blaine," explained Wes.

"That whore that cheated on Kurt? Yeah, we know of him," spat Artie.

"He quit Glee Club three weeks ago, but I have no idea why. He didn't explain it, just came into my office to tell me he wasn't going to do it anymore," said Will.

"How many of you know the real story of what happened between Blaine and Kurt?" Asked David. Every New Directions member raised their hand in the air, and David shook his head.

"Who did you hear it from?" Asked Thad.

"I heard it from Puck, who heard it from Rachel in New York. We should never have trusted Blaine, he was always going to betray us somehow," muttered Tina.

"Did any of you think of asking Blaine what happened, and getting his side of the story?" Asked Trent.

"I just know he's sad, and Blaine's not usually sad, but he misses his dolphin Kurt," said Brittany.

"Let me tell you the truth for a moment, see how you all feel after that. Two months ago, Blaine was at a party with some of the ex-Warblers, a bit of a reunion, some familiar faces, some new. There was some alcohol, and Blaine wasn't drunk. One of the newer, more flamboyant members of the Warblers leaned over and kissed him, and Blaine pulled back straight away, explaining that he was in a committed relationship with someone else," started Wes.

"Two weeks later, he went to New York to see Kurt because he hadn't spoken to him for nearly two months, and he wanted to make sure there were no secret or lies in their relationship, nothing hidden. Blaine told him exactly what happened, and Kurt, not Blaine, Kurt walked away from this. Blaine has done nothing wrong," explained David.

"God. How did we get the wrong idea?" Asked Tina.

"If you listened to Noah Tuckerman like we all did, then it's no surprise; he's never got his facts straight, and would have heard it from Finn, who probably wasn't listening anyway," answered Artie sadly.

"What we say from here on in does not go back to Kurt. Ever. It will not become public information, or you will find yourself in serious trouble, and I should know; my Dad's a lawyer," said Thad, glaring at each member. They nodded, almost afraid of what would come next.

"Blaine is in St Ann's hospital on a seventy-two hour psychiatric watch due to the fact he tried to kill himself last night," said David quietly, evidently still shocked. Brittany brought a hand to her mouth in shock, tears sliding down her cheeks.

"God, is he okay?" Asked Will, concerned.

"Blaine was raped six weeks ago, and we thought we were doing the right thing by supporting his decision to return to school, hoping that the New Directions members would be there for him as friends. Clearly, we were wrong," answered Wes harshly.

"I was the one who found him last night after he sent me a text apologising for everything that had happened, and for being so needy. I went with him in the ambulance, watched as they stripped off his clothes in the emergency room. He is covered in bruises, most of them fresh, some in the stages of healing. Where were all of you when he was suffering all of this?" Asked David, looking at each member. Sam glanced up, guilt eating away at him.

"It was me. I organised the jocks to teach him a lesson, to remind him that he shouldn't hurt someone he loves," said Sam, voice thick.

"Guys, I am shocked and appalled that you would do something like this to a fellow Glee Club member. We talk about being a family, being there for one another, and you turn on one of your own like this? You had to have known that the story was fabricated; look at everything Blaine has done for Kurt, changed schools, taken a slushy for him, supported him through everything that happened with Karofsky, and this is how you repay him? I don't even know how to discipline you for this, because everything I can think of isn't adequate enough," said Will through gritted teeth.

"We felt you had to know the truth, and if David and I had of known that this was happening to Blaine, we would have been here to sort it out sooner," added Wes.

"You need to make it right with Blaine. Support him through this trying time, rather than turning your back on him. He needs you right now, and it's the first time he's ever really asked for anything from any of you," said Trent wisely. Tina nodded.

"He's right. Blaine has always helped us out, has always been there to support us, and look what we've done! Mr Schue, can we ditch Glee today? I think we need to go and see Blaine," asked Tina quietly, her eyes brimming with tears.

"At the moment, they're not allowing any visitors other than family," answered David softly. His phone rang, and he glanced up the group, excusing himself.

"David speaking."

"They've kicked me out. Oh God, David, they kicked me out, what am I going to do?" Asked Blaine's panicked voice.

"Hey, hey, shh, it's all okay. You can stay with me for a while, until we can sort things out," suggested David, trying to calm his upset little friend.

"You're in Westerville David. I don't think I can do the two hour commute to school anymore, and Mom and Dad are disowning me, and I can't pay to go back to Dalton and I don't know what to do," sobbed Blaine.

"Blaine, I think you need an adult in this, someone you trust. If you could have anyone, who would you want?" Asked David, pacing the McKinley hallway.

"Carole. Or Burt. They've always made me feel safe," replied Blaine, sniffling.

"Then I'll go talk to them, okay? Is there anything else I can do for you?" Asked David.

"I miss Kurt," he whispered.

"Oh Blaine, I know you do," said David compassionately. Blaine snuffled again, and hung up without another word. David returned to the choir room, all eyes on him as he took a seat.

"He's awake. His parents just walked away from him," said David, feeling his own emotions well up on him.

"What do you mean 'walked away'?" Asked Wes.

"According to Pam and Joshua Anderson, they only have one son."

An hour later, the four ex-Warblers left McKinley High, and headed further into Lima, hoping to see Kurt's parents. Wes drove this time, David beyond exhausted after the morning from hell, and Wes was more familiar with Lima than David was. He pulled up into a driveway, shaking David awake.

"I hope Mr Hummel is home today," said David softly.

"His truck is still here, so I would guess he is. Come on, we can get. This over and done with. If they won't look after him, I'm sure we can work out something," said Wes, encouraging his friends out of the car. Wes marched up to the front door, rapping on the hard wood. A few seconds later, the door opened to reveal Carole.

"Hi boys. What's going on?" Asked Carole, immediately concerned.

"Is Mr Hummel here? We'd like to talk to both of you," started Wes politely.

"He is. Burt? I think you need to come down here," called Carole. She stepped back to allow the four boys inside, and motioned for them to take a seat in the living room. Burt thundered down the stairs and into the living room.

"What's going on?" Asked Burt anxiously.

"Blaine... Blaine tried to kill himself last night," said David, the emotional wall finally breaking. He burst into tears, sobbing as he realised how close he had been to losing a friend last night.

"Oh God, is he okay? He seemed like he was doing fine, but I wasn't sure, he was acting a little odd, but I put it down to the breakup and God," blathered Carole. Wes wrapped a supporting arm around his friend, while Trent pulled a handy pack of tissues out of his pocket.

"David found him last night, bleeding out. He managed to get onto Blaine's parents and they met him at St Ann's. This morning they returned to tell Blaine that they no longer considered him their son," said Wes angrily.

"What? Blaine is such a nice guy! How can a parent just walk away from someone like that?" Asked Burt, furious.

"He was too much drama for them. They didn't approve of his orientation, he was too different from Cooper, and they wanted another model son that fitted their ideal of perfection, not what they had in front of them," said Thad tightly.

"What can we do to help? We'll help in anyway we can," said Carole softly.

"We've spoken to the New Directions today; they'd somehow found out about Kurt and Blaine breaking up and blamed Blaine for all of it, and we're bullying him because of it. However, we would like to ask if you could do something for Blaine that none of us can do," said Trent quietly.

"We'd do anything for Blaine, you boys know that," scorned Burt. David looked up, hope in his eyes.

"Could you take him in while he finishes his senior year?"

Blaine woke up to a soft hand running through his hair and he sat up quickly, trying to work out who it was.

"Carole?" He mumbled.

"Shh sweetie. Get some rest. I'll still be here," whispered Carole. Blaine felt tears escape, sliding down his cheeks, and he reached out his arms for a hug. Carole obliged, pulling him tight, and Blaine let himself go. Tears and snot running down his face, he didn't care as someone who loved and cared for him held him close.

"I'm sorry. I'm sorry," he murmured, hiccupping loudly.

"It's okay. David, Wes, Thad and Trent came to visit, and explained what happened. Burt and I are here for you, no matter what you need, okay? You have to stay here for two more days, but after that, there is a place for you in the Hudmel household," reassured Carole.

"I don't understand why they don't love me," said Blaine sadly, pulling away from her.

"Some people don't realise how good they have it, and they throw it away," answered Carole.

"I miss him so much," whimpered Blaine. Carole rested a hand on his knee, rubbing it gently with her thumb.

"I know you do. You need to tell him what happened Blaine. You need to tell him about the past two months, about everything that's changed. He still loves you deep down," replied Carole gently.

"I can't tell him. You and Burt, you can't tell him either; he'll say I'm attention seeking, or he won't care. Please Carole, you can't tell him it's all falling apart," pleaded Blaine.

"I won't honey, I promise. You need to get some sleep, okay?" Said Carole softly. She encouraged Blaine to lie down, stroking his hair gently. He settled on the bed, and closed his eyes, relaxing under Carole's ministrations. As soon as he was lulled under, Carole stepped out of the room, coming face to face with Will Schuester and Emma Pillsbury.

"I'm sorry we're here Carole, but we had to make sure Blaine was okay. Blaine's Dalton friends came to see us today in our Glee Club, and I had no idea what was going on," admitted Will.

"He's lost a significant amount of weight, is covered in bruises, doctor is suspecting he may develop pneumonia at some point as his white cell count is through the roof, and most of all, his emotional state is all over the place. I can't believe a Glee Club would do something so terrible to someone as sweet as Blaine! These kids always preach about being different and how it doesn't matter when you've done something wrong, they'll forgive you, yet here they are, the cause of a lot of Blaine's physical pain. I don't know how you're going to make this right Will Schuester, but it's going to be a hellish trip to get this boy back to where he needs to be," berated Carole.

"The Glee Club members would like to come and see Blaine, apologise for what they've done, and work their way towards making amends. Would you be agreeable to that happening?" Asked Emma quietly.

"I'd like myself, Burt or one of the Dalton boys with him when that happens, but if they're willing to apologise and apologise properly, then I'm happy for it to happen," said Carole, calming down.

"When is he able to have visitors?" Asked Will.

"He's still on hold until midnight Sunday, and I think he'll be released on Tuesday once they've monitored the bruising and his white cell count. You could come on Monday?" Suggested Carole.

"We'll be here. Carole, I am sorry. I should have known something was up when Blaine walked into my office three weeks ago and quit, but I thought he was leaving because he wasn't keeping up with school work. I had no idea that it would be my kids that would be the catalyst for all of this," apologised Will. Carole gave him a brief smile.

"Nor did I, but it's done now. I'll see you all on Monday?" Asked Carole. Will nodded, taking Emma's hand and gripping it tightly.

"Thanks Carole. Say hi to Burt for me." Will left, and Carole felt herself relax. She couldn't believe what the poor boy had been through and resolved to be there for him no matter what. She returned to his room, checking on him, before calling her son, needing to hear his voice and make sure he was okay.

Because Blaine was far from okay.

"Blaine, I am so sorry. Puck had told us what he'd heard from Finn and Rachel about you and Kurt breaking up, and he was talking about how you'd slept with some other guy, and we didn't even think to ask you what had happened and I am so, so sorry!" Exclaimed Tina, clearly on the verge of tears.

"I knew Blaine Warbler wasn't a bad dolphin. Lord Tubbington is psychic, and he told me Blaine was a good guy, and Santana gave him my map, so he must be okay," babbled Brittany, sitting on the bed beside Blaine, petting his hair. David was on the other side of Blaine with Wes, watching as the New Directions members poured out their hearts in apology to Blaine.

"I was the one who organised the jocks to give you extra slushy's and dumpster drops and to beat you up in general; I was upset that you'd hurt someone as nice as Kurt, and I wanted you to pay. I didn't even think about your side of the story, I was just angry. I'm so sorry," apologised Sam.

"We've been a terrible club, and we've spent all weekend working on a song for you," said Artie quietly. He motioned for Jake to grab his guitar, and the group crowded around, humming, before Jake started off their song.

"I hate to see you cry. Lying there in that position. There's things you need to hear, so turn off your tears and listen," sang Jake.

"Pain throws your heart to the ground, love turns the whole thing around. No it won't all go the way it should, but I know the heart of life is good," added Marley.

"You know, it's nothing new, bad news never had good timing. Then, circle of your friends, will defend the silver lining," joined in Artie and Tina. The glee club combined to sing the chorus of John Mayer's song 'The Heart Of Life'.

"Pain throws your heart to the ground, love turns the whole thing around. No it won't all go the way it should, but I know the heart of life is good. Pain throws your heart to the ground, love turns the whole thing around. No it won't all go the way it should, but I know the heart of life is good. I know it's good." Blaine leaned his head against David, tears falling hard. The group converged on him, enveloping him in a huge hug, and the warmth and support from the group made Blaine sob harder.

"Don't cry unicorn. We still love you, even if you're missing your horn," said Brittany sadly. David and Wes sniggered, and soon, the entire New Directions Club were giggling along with him.

"I've missed you guys," whispered Blaine.

"We've missed you too! There's no strong dance lead anymore, and it's killing me to try and have to transpose the moves from Britt. She's good, but she doesn't explain it like you do," said Sam.

"You can dance fine without me," said Blaine bashfully, bowing his head.

"Yeah, when I dance at home in my bedroom. Not when it comes to preparing for Regionals. Please tell me you'll be back for it," begged Sam. Blaine nodded.

"I think I will be. I have to see a therapist for a while, and I don't know how long it will take me to feel like myself again, but if you guys are willing to have me back, I'd love to come back," said Blaine quietly.

"We'd love to have you back. Regionals are in two weeks, and it's crazy hard to sing without you in the team," replied Marley easily.

"I guess I'm back in then. I'll be released in a few days, and I promise I'll come to rehearsals," vowed Blaine. He yawned, barely hiding it behind his hand.

"Alright, I think it might be time for all of us to head home. Blaine, call us if you need us, alright?" Reassured David. Blaine nodded, settling under the blankets.

Everything was starting to fall into place.

The next two weeks passed in a blur for Blaine; therapist appointments, doctors appointments, booty camp, singing classes, regular classes. He barely had time to think about his life, let alone breathe before he found himself in a green room at Regionals, waiting for their turn to be called.

"Are you nervous?" Asked Sam. Blaine shook his head, looking in the mirror and readjusting his bowtie.

"No. I'm petrified. But we can do this. We've got a really strong setlist, and we've been working hard the past two weeks to pull it all together. We will be amazing," said Blaine confidently. The lights in the room dimmed twice, an indicator to head out for the stage. The group followed Blaine out onto the stage, taking their place on the choir risers. Blaine headed for the microphone, and stood for a moment, collecting his thoughts.

David, Wes, Thad and Trent were here to encourage him.

Carole and Burt were here to encourage him.

The New Directions were standing behind him, supporting him, loving him.

He could do this.

Blaine cleared his throat, glanced at the band, and nodded. A piano started the piece off, arpeggios slicing through the air. Blaine took a deep breath, and started singing an acoustic version of Seether's 'Broken'.

"I wanted you to know I love the way you laugh, I want to hold you high and steal your pain away," Blaine sang out his heart, closing his eyes and losing himself in the emotion of the song.

"I keep your photograph, and I know it serves me well, I want to hold you high and steal your pain." The New Directions girls stepped forward to harmonise to the chorus, and Blaine smiled at Marley as he sang.

"'Cause I'm broken when I'm lonesome, and I don't feel right when you've gone away. You've gone away, you don't feel me here anymore." The boys stepped forward to join the girls, creating a full blended sound to support Blaine's repeated chorus.

"'Cause I'm broken when I'm open, and I don't feel like I am strong enough. 'Cause I'm broken when I'm lonesome, and I don't feel right when you're gone away." Blaine stepped back for a moment, taking a breath before launching into the second verse, eyes on the audience.

"The worst is over now and we can breathe again, I want to hold you high, and steal my pain away. There's so much left to learn, and no one left to fight, I want to hold you high and steal your pain." Blaine glanced out among the audience, and linked eyes with Kurt.

Kurt.

Blaine stumbled over the words for a moment, and Jake, seeing Blaine fumble the words, instantly stepped in to take over, noting the panic and the fear on Blaine's face.

"Cause I'm broken when I'm lonesome, and I don't feel right when you've gone away. You've gone away, you don't feel me here anymore." Marley took over after Jake, allowing Blaine to blend into the back line of the club, creating a wall, a group of safety and security. Blaine's mind was clouded, working sluggishly as he struggled to comprehend Kurt's appearance.

"Cause I'm broken when I'm lonesome, and I don't feel right when you've gone away. You've gone away, you don't feel me here anymore." Artie took the lead from there, harmonising with Tina as they belted out another chorus.

"Cause I'm broken when I'm open, and I don't feel like I am strong enough. 'Cause I'm broken when I'm lonesome, and I don't feel right when you're gone away." Blaine started hyperventilating as the song moved into a segue section, building quickly on a small riff.

"I'm broken, I'm broken inside. I'm broken, I'm broken inside." Blaine's vision turned to black, and as Unique belted out a high note, Blaine collapsed on the stage, falling behind one of the choir risers. The audience gasped, and David and Wes stood up, running from the concert hall. New Directions froze on stage, unsure as to whether to continue. Will stood up in the audience, Emma close behind him, and she headed straight for the judges to discuss the possibilities of continuing on after the other choirs, with a small penalty mark, while Will headed to the green room. New Directions filed off the stage as the MC covered the frightening moment, introducing the second show choir. Will sprinted inside, Blaine's limp body being supported between Wes and David. Carole and Burt were ushered into the room as the New Directions members stepped to the side, allowing Wes and David to lower Blaine to the couch.

"Blaine? Sweetie, I need you to open your eyes for me, let me know you're okay," said Carole softly, tapping Blaine's cheek. Rachel, Finn and Kurt appeared in the doorway, Kurt white as a sheet.

"What happened? Why did he collapse?" Asked Kurt, voice trembling.

"We're not sure yet. Could you wait outside for us bud?" Replied Burt hastily.

"He's my boyfriend! I want to make sure he's okay!"

"He is not your boyfriend Kurt Hummel, not after the way you broke up with him," snarled Wes. Kurt took a step back, startled by the aggressive tone coming from Wes.

"Please Kurt. Finn, Rachel, please go with him," urged Carole.

"I'll grab him some water," said David, standing up carefully. Ryder handed him a bottle of water, wanting to help some way. Blaine whimpered, bringing a hand to his head.

"The light," he whispered. Unique turned the light dimmer, bringing the room to a twilight glow.

"Blaine, can you open your eyes? Is it any better?" Asked Carole. Blaine forced open his eyes, looking at the blurry outline he assumed was Carole.

"My head hurts," he slurred.

"I know it does honey, and as much as you're going to hate it, we'll have to take you to hospital. You need to be checked over by a doctor, make sure you haven't hit your head too hard, okay?" Asked Carole softly.

"But Regio…" started Blaine wearily.

"Will have to go on without you," said Carole firmly. Blaine groaned and lay back, closing his eyes briefly, his head buzzing. Emma appeared in the doorway, face fallen.

"They made a ruling. New Directions has been disqualified," said Emma, choking back a sob.

"I'm so sorry," apologised Blaine.

"It's okay. I promise, it's okay," reassured Will gently. Carole helped Blaine stand, Burt close beside him, and they left the green room, heading for the nearest hospital to get Blaine checked out. David and Wes stood up, intent on following Blaine and the Hudmels, but Kurt, Rachel and Finn blocked the way.

"What the hell was that? Where are they taking him?" Demanded Kurt.

"What are you even doing here? We've had to look after him for two months, get him back on his feet, and you come back and it's gone, all in a heartbeat," retorted Wes.

"He was finally getting back on his feet, and you show up, and it all goes to hell!" Added Sam.

"I'm here because I wanted to hear you perform at Regionals and become champions! I'm sorry!" Exclaimed Kurt, breaking down.

"He came back here to apologise, and you've all just shot him down! You used to be friends with Kurt as well, not just Blaine," snarled Rachel.

"How can we be friends with Kurt after what he did to Blaine?" Asked Marley.

"After what Kurt did to Blaine? Why don't we talk about what Blaine did to Kurt? Did you ever consider that? He slept with someone else!" Exclaimed Rachel.

"He did not sleep with someone else! Another guy kissed him, and Blaine told Kurt in the interest of keeping the honesty in their relationship. How on earth do you jump from a unexpected to kiss to sleeping with someone else?" Yelled David.

"What?" Asked Rachel, looking confused.

"Blaine didn't cheat; someone else kissed him, and he pulled away immediately," reiterated David.

"Kurt just said he cheated; I just assumed…"

"You assumed. You assumed. What on earth possessed you to tell everyone you knew about what happened? Did you just enjoy the gossip, or was there malicious intent behind it?" Snapped Wes.

"I'm sorry," said Rachel, tears glittering in her eyes.

"It's not us you have to say sorry to Rachel. It's Blaine," spat Wes. Finn wrapped his arms around his fiancé, pulling her close.

"I'm sorry."

"Kurt, what are you doing here?" Asked Burt, sitting at the kitchen table with his son.

"I came to see the Glee Club perform, and to catch up with you and Carole, because I barely get to talk to either of you anymore; you always seem so busy," answered Kurt.

"First things first; you need to know that Blaine's been living here for a few weeks. His parents have kicked him out and disowned him. That is all I can tell you; Blaine has asked Carole and I to not say anything further. Second; I'm disappointed in how you've handled this situation. You tell me you're an adult, but rather than talking about the problem with Blaine, you walked away. I thought I raised you better than that Kurt," said Burt sadly.

"You did! I'm sorry, I could have handled it better. I'd had a rough week at Vogue, Blaine showed up unannounced, and when he told me, I'd had enough for the week. I never intended to make him feel the way he did," said Kurt softly.

"I think you two need to talk; he's got a mild concussion, but he convinced them to let him come home; he's been staying in the guest room," said Carole, bustling in with an empty glass and plate.

"Thanks Carole." Kurt stood up, leaving his Dad and Carole to talk. He walked down the hall to the guest bedroom and knocked on the door gently.

"Come in," called Blaine softly. Kurt pushed open the door and took in the sight of a pale Blaine sprawled on the bed, eyes swollen and red from crying.

"Why are you here?" Asked Blaine, voice hoarse.

"Because I actually needed to come back and make things right with you. I am so sorry for hurting you the way I did; I'd had a hell of a week at Vogue, and you showed up, and I'd was really not thinking. If there was any way for me to make this up to you, please tell me," begged Kurt. Blaine indicated to the space behind him on the double bed.

"Lay with me. It's been over six months since I've had you this close, and I've missed you," said Blaine softly. Kurt kicked off his shoes and lay behind Blaine, pulling him close. He inhaled deeply, enjoying the faint scent of soap. They were quiet for a while until Kurt realised Blaine was shaking.

"Oh Blaine," he whispered. He rolled Blaine over so he could see him, and tilted his chin up so he could kiss him.

"I keep thinking this is some sort of cruel prank, something that my mind has set up because of the concussion. I spent weeks wishing you'd come back to me, hoping and praying that I'd somehow misheard you, but you never came back," sobbed Blaine. Kurt felt his heart break a little more, and he kissed Blaine's forehead.

"I promise we will work this out. I will never leave you again."