Unfinished 1/?
Title: Unfinished
Author: hybridmusic
Characters: Kurt and Puck, possible puckurt
Rating: PG, may go higher
Word count: ~3800, this part
Summary: Puck and Kurt will do anything they have to get out of Lima. Against everyone's better judgement, they decide to get an apartment together. They never really even talked and now they don't really have a choice but to try to get along. Sort of fill for this prompt on the glee angst meme.
Author's note: This will probably end up having some stuff taken from my life.
Noah Puckerman left his beat up old car on the street unlocked. It wasn't that he didn't care about the car; he still needed it to get around. His ipod was in the glove compartment. He knew his belongings would be perfectly safe here in Lima, Ohio.
Nothing ever happened here.
Puck could picture every square house on every block in their flat little town. The large campus of Ohio State University that marked one of the only reasons people actually came here. All the cookie cutter buildings that provided shopping, entertainment and everything else people could want. Schoonover Park, Lost Creek Reservoir, Lima Memorial and countless other local landmarks.
Every house on this block looked practically identical, but his friends’ house stood out from the others. This was still a new house to them, but the memories remained. Despite all the hard times they’d gone through, Puck definitely spent more time at Finn's house than at his own. It wasn't as if there was anything wrong with his own place, but he couldn't handle the inescapable tension.
He burst into Finn's place without even knocking. He could hear music coming from the den, someone practicing piano. Puck wasn't familiar with the piece, a slow classical dirge and he wondered if Kurt was any good at it. There was no doubt it would be anyone but Kurt. The piece seemed to be flowing nicely, but than again, what did Puck know about that kind of music? He followed the noise towards the back of the house and kicked open the door.
The playing stopped abruptly and a tall, refined young man glanced up at him. Puck barely even nodded at him. "Hey Kurt, is Finn here?"
“No.” Kurt swept his hair off to one side. He turned away from Puck, clearly uninterested in continuing the conversation.
“Do you know where he is?”
Kurt just shrugged. “Haven’t seen him all day.”
Puck studied the younger man, even as Kurt turned back towards his piano music. The two never really spoke, but he realized he was curious about something. “Is this what you’ve been doing all summer?”
“So what if it is?” He placed his fingers on the keyboard, almost hunching uncomfortably over the piano.
“I just thought you’d be doing something more interesting with your free time, that’s all.” Puck had kind of always thought that Kurt would be the one to have a solid plan for the future. So far, Puck hadn’t seen Kurt try anything all summer.
Kurt glanced up at him. “I don’t see how it’s any of your business,” he snapped. “Now if you’ll excuse me, I have to practice.”
Puck shook his head, left the den and took out his phone to text Finn. “Where are you? Kurt's being annoying.”
He stood there for a long moment, waiting for a response. Kurt had started playing again, but this time it sounded almost hesitant, like he was distracted.
Puck didn’t know what to think about Kurt. Even though they'd spent a lot of time together, their limited conversations had always been strained. He seemed nice enough, but Puck had his own things to worry about. Kurt's life just seemed so complicated and rough around the edges... like a delicate shirt that someone had forgotten to hem. Almost like it was unfinished.
Puck had enough of that in his own little world.
There was just something about Kurt that had always mystified him. Puck sometimes wondered if it had anything to do with his mom dying when Kurt was so young... and it didn't take long for him to realize that yes, it probably had a lot to do with his mom dying. And suddenly, Puck would clam up and avoid Kurt and thank god he was never expected to say anything.
Why was Puck thinking so much about his Kurt anyway? Anything that had to do with Kurt in his life was over. They'd won nationals and that was that. He had better things to do. He headed towards the door, his phone finally ringing as he opened it. “Ignore him. Be there in five,” the text read.
Puck knew he was welcome to sit on the couch and channel surf, but instead he stepped outside and closed the door behind him. He needed some air.
He wondered if maybe he’d been so curious about Kurt’s plans because he didn’t have any of his own. Puck wasn’t an idiot and he’d seen how much effort Kurt had put in to try to get ahead. If that much work didn’t get him anywhere, it was almost like, why should Puck try at all? Maybe it was an excuse.
A car full of OSU kids sped by, the radio blaring loudly. Even though the campus was pretty much deserted for the summer, there were enough students around to take all the jobs from younger kids.
Puck probably could have gotten a scholarship to OSU if he had better grades. He’d heard the admissions board loved stories like his, not that it was anything special. His parents went through a nasty divorce before he could even remember. His dad had taken off for the west coast and here he was, stuck with his mom and his little sister. He’d spent most of his youth on the couch watching his sister while his mom worked overtime. His mom was an alumni of OSU, which was supposed to count for a lot in this town, but she still couldn't find a decent job.
As it was, he didn’t even apply to OSU. He didn’t want to stay in Lima, with its stadium that could hold more people than the population of the town. The world just seemed so much bigger than this dying town. Now it was almost August after graduation and he still wasn’t sure exactly where he was going. His thoughts drifted back to Kurt, who seemed to be in the same boat. Kurt was one of those kids that every teacher loved. He got good grades and was a talented performer. He wasn’t exactly popular, but he definitely had his own group of friends. It seemed like the only school Kurt had applied to was NYADA. Puck wondered why - he could probably go to any school he wanted to.
Finn’s car pulled quickly into the driveway, reminding Puck of another difference between the two families. Finn’s mom might be working overtime right next to his mom, but Burt was in government now and things had changed a lot for them. That sports car was brand new, for one thing. Finn jumped out of the car, laughing at Puck. “You look like an idiot, just standing there,” he remarked.
Finn shrugged, taking in his tan, broad shouldered friend. Finn was the polar opposite of Kurt. He was tall and popular, even if he wasn't very bright. Everyone knew Finn had a lot going for him to make up for what he might be lacking. Puck wouldn't be surprised if Finn started a business by the time he was 30. He had the charisma for it. "Where were you anyway?" Puck finally asked.
"Dealing with Rachel. She thinks we should break up," he sighed.
Puck had to admit he wasn't exactly surprised. While Finn was kind of straight laced, Rachel was a determined, high maintance girl who knew exactly what she wanted in life. Puck thought Finn needed someone more low key. Puck would never forget the time junior year when she came to school dressed like Britney Spears, just to see the reaction. Finn had loved that for all the wrong reasons. Puck shrugged, their relationship was none of his business. "It's too bad. You guys were great together."
Finn chuckled, "Right, whatever. What was Kurt saying to you, by the way? He's been weird all summer."
"Not much," Puck shrugged. "Don't you think it's weird he's acting like this?"
"Who knows with him?" Finn shook his head. Puck could understand that they weren't close, but shouldn't someone at least try to talk to him? "Anyway, are you ready? We were supposed to leave like half an hour ago."
Puck nodded, hopping into Finn's car. “I was just waiting for you. Wasn’t this was your idea in the first place?”
“Of course it was,” Finn smiled slyly. “I could really use it after that argument with Rachel.”
“Was it really that bad?”
“Oh yeah,” Finn looked behind him and started backing out of the driveway. Puck took one last look at their house before they turned the corner. One of their favorite bands that didn't usually come to their part of Ohio was playing a concert nearby. They had been looking forward to it all summer, but suddenly, Puck wasn’t really in the mood.
His thoughts stayed on the possibilities that the future might bring.
The truth was that he didn’t have much potential. This was never more clear than times when he arrived late like tonight and the house was a mess. There were times, especially after Puck's mom found out his dad had been in town, where she just lost it. Puck knew he couldn't leave his family here and even if he could, where would he go? He didn’t even have enough money anymore, not since he'd given it to his dad. He couldn't afford a bus ticket, let alone rent and food and countless living expenses that might come up. As he straightened up the house, he resigned himself to the fact that he might be serving cheeseburgers to guys at OSU for years to come. It wasn’t long until he passed out on the couch.
"Puck!" A voice called from the kitchen. "What are you doing, still sleeping? It's after noon! Get out of bed!"
Puck groaned and rolled over. "Mom, it's Saturday!"
"I don't care. I need some help in here."
That got him out of bed. She usually didn't ask for help unless she really needed it. He threw on some boxers and made his way into the kitchen. The lady was sitting at the kitchen table, staring down at a pile of bills. "What were you doing out so late?" She didn't even look up.
"I told you before, Ma. I went to that concert with Finn."
"That's fine for rich folks, but how much did that set you back? Where'd you get that money? I really hope you didn't do anything illegal!"
"I saved it for a long time." He shook his head, trying to figure out what exactly she thought he could be doing that was so wrong. He’d been on his best behavior since juvee, at least in front of her. As far as he knew, his mom didn't even know about those times he skipped class and hung out in the cemetery.
"Well if you ask me, it was a waste of money. What does it help you now that it's over?"
"It was fun! What's so wrong with having a little fun once in a while? Don't worry, I made sure there's enough money for food and everything else."
"What, you don't think I can take care of myself? I have plenty money without you." She glared up at him, her face looking more tired than usual. "Why don't you go get a real job, than maybe we can talk."
"You know there's no jobs in this town. I'm lucky to have my pool cleaning gig."
"Well, what are you still doing here? Go, get out of here. Go have fun, if that's what you wanna do. I don't wanna see you until you get your priorities straight."
"Are you serious? What about you? How will you make do?"
She just nodded. "Maybe you'll learn some responsibility in your sorry little life. Don't worry about me, I can take care of myself. I managed to take care of you all this time, didn't I?"
Puck nodded. "I just worry about you guys, that's all."
"Don't worry. I'll be right here when you come back. Now get out of here!"
Puck left the apartment before she could change her mind. He hurried down the street towards his car, taking in the familiar sights of eastern Lima. They lived in the poorer section of town, near the small industrial district. Puck kind of always thought he would end up working at one of the small factories, maybe calibrating parts for minimum wage. Now where would he go? He suddenly felt like all his talents weren't enough to make it anywhere, but he knew he had to try. What else could he do? He hopped in his car and headed over to Finn's place.
Their new house was practically a mansion compared to anything else in this town. It was a white Victorian house, with grand columns on either side of the bright red door. Now when Puck pushed his way inside, he almost bumped into a little kid that was running towards the kitchen. The girl looked up at him, her eyes wide. “Finn, your weird friend is here!”
She giggled, running ahead of him into the other room. She briefly glanced back at him, trying to get another peek. Puck hesitated before following her into the kitchen. The whole family was there, looking like they were just finishing a massive barbecue lunch. Puck’s stomach growled, reminding him that he hadn’t eaten anything yet that day.
“Come in, sit down and have a burger,” Finn's mom smiled up at him, but Puck had to wonder how sincere she really was. She had never really forgiven him ever since that thing with Quinn. Turns out moms take that kind of thing personally. She had a big smile that always somehow seemed misplaced.
Puck glanced at Finn, who just shrugged at him. The food smelled really good and Puck couldn’t resist. He piled up his plate and sat down next to Finn, who was finished eating, but still sipping from a cup of soda. “Sorry, I guess I should have texted you,” Puck muttered.
Finn shrugged. “Don’t worry about it. There’s plenty of left overs. Besides, maybe you’ll give me an excuse to get out of here.”
Puck looked around the crowded room. Kurt’s father was watching a game on the small kitchen TV, cheering on his team right next to his brother in law, Ted. Burt's younger sister Lisa was trying to feed her baby, but somehow just making a huge mess. The other kids were chasing each other around the room, in between every one's legs. Kurt was sitting in a corner, quietly reading a novel. They might not be the picture of a perfect family but at least they were something. Finn couldn’t remember the last time his mom had spoken to him without yelling. The last time his father even called.
Puck shook his head, not sure what was bothering Finn. He looked towards Finn and said, “Relax, we can hang out here for a while.”
Finn almost rolled his eyes, “we do these barbecues every week, it’s not a big deal. Nobody even talks to each other. Even Kurt gets away without saying anything.”
Kurt glanced up, raising an eyebrow curiously. “Why do you have to single me out of everyone? Do you expect me to give a monologue or something?”
“No, I just figured you’re so great at everything else,” Finn shook his head. “The only thing I don’t understand is this whole ‘college is limiting’ crusade you’re on lately.”
“That’s exactly what it is! Why should I pay thousands of dollars to hear some professor’s opinion about the way he thinks things should be?”
“You’re insane. Just because you didn't get into NYADA, you decide the whole system is wack?”
"Oh, you're one to talk," Kurt rolled his eyes.
Finn eyed Kurt carefully. “That’s not what this is about and you know it!”
“Calm down. Kurt, I've been thinking,” Burt started, breaking through the tension. “Now that I'm down in Washington, I've got some play down at the OSU admissions office. There’s still a few open spots. You can’t get a scholarship, but Carol and I would be glad to help you out, Kurt.”
Kurt seemed to feel threatened by all this. “It’s not about the money. I don’t want to stay here... I’m moving to the city.”
The whole room instantly grew quiet. The kids stopped running around and even the action on TV seemed to pause. Everyone turned to looked at Kurt. “Why? You know we're here for you.” Burt was the first to react.
“You know how hard it's been for me here. I said I was going to New York to go to NYADA and I haven’t changed my mind. I think it's time to start over. Actually, I think I’m gonna get going soon. The summer’s almost over, time to start thinking about the future.”
Finn narrowed his eyes, studying Kurt closely. “Right, it’s about your pride. You’re too foolish to take some help when you’re given it. You’ve got to realize that everyone has to start somewhere. How do you think the president got elected or meals on wheels got started? Someone gave them a leg up. Now it’s your turn and if I were you, I’d take all the help I could get. I have things to do, but I think you should stick around here for a while.”
Carol nodded. “We would help out either of you in this situation.”
Their father nodded in agreement. “This is about your future. Your best chance is here, at Ohio State.” His eyes glowed with hometown pride.
“Thanks for the generous offer, but I guess we’ll have to agree to disagree,” Kurt shrugged.
“It’s your future,” his father said ominously. “You can do what you like, but we can't pay rent if you're out of town.”
“But you would pay tuition if I stay here?”
“Yes, I'm sorry, but it's a whole different ball game. You could help out with the business if you stay here.”
"I guess that's it, then." Kurt just nodded, turning and starting down the hall.
Puck stared after him and hesitated only a moment before starting after him.
==
“Kurt! Hey, wait up!” Puck called after him as he headed towards his car.
Kurt glanced over his shoulder and rolled his eyes. “What? They sent you after me to try to change my mind? Thanks. Not interested.”
“No,” Puck shook his head. “You’re headed towards the city?”
“Yeah, New York. The land of opportunity,” he chuckled.
“Maybe I could come with you. I don’t have a lot of money, but we could split gas and tolls. I don’t have much going for me here either; I could use a fresh start.”
“Wait, let me get this straight. You wanna come with me?" He shook his head. "I know you heard everything that happened back there, but I’m not sure you should get involved in this mess.”
“It doesn’t seem like such a big deal to me. Look, are your parents gonna disown you just because you’re not staying in town? Probably not. Even if they do, been there, done that,” he rolled his eyes.
Kurt seemed to consider that. “Your dad...”
“What? Took off the second I got in the way? Yeah, that’s basically what happened.”
Kurt shook his head. “Look, no offense but I don’t wanna stand out here for too long. Trying to prove a point here. I’d appreciate it if you just went home or whatever.”
Puck shrugged, “My mom basically kicked me out. I think she’s trying to teach me responsibility or something like that.”
Kurt studied the other man for a long moment. Finally he nodded, “Well, get in the car, if you’re coming. I’d like to make some headway before dark.”
He nodded and got into the shiny car. The car was neat and uncluttered, it seemed to have barely been driven at all. They were silent as they drove through the sleepy town, Kurt following the traffic laws perfectly. Puck turned to him when he switched on his blinker when he should have gone straight, “Where you going?”
Kurt turned into a little shopping plaza. “I figured I might as well get some cash while I still have the chance. We’ll stop for food and gas in a little bit. Do you need to get any money?”
Puck shook his head. He hadn’t told Finn, but the gas to the concert had been the last of his life savings. He had his last hundred bucks stashed in his back pocket. “I’m good,” he said roughly.
Puck waited while Kurt went out to make the withdrawal. Maybe this was a bad idea, but what choice did he have? He didn't want money being the only reason stopping him from getting out of this sorry town. He knew his mom would be glad to have him back, but he didn't want to prove her right.
Kurt got back in the car, flashing a rather thick stack of bills. "It's not much, but hopefully it will last us a while."
Puck just eyed him silently. It seemed like a lot of money to him.
"Can I ask you something?” Kurt glanced over at him. “You're not stupid. I don't understand why you didn't apply to any colleges."
"I could ask you the same thing, I mean other than NYADA," he shook his head, hoping Kurt didn’t explode at him. "You know how you said it's not about the money? Well, I wish I had that problem. I can't get a scholarship for football or guitar or anything I'm halfway decent at."
Kurt shrugged. "I actually think that college is kind of limiting. I don't want to be tied down for the next four years."
"You could say the opposite... at least you know what you'll be doing for four years."
"I don't think like that. The world is full of possibility, it's a shame to waste it."
"So what are you gonna do in New York? You must have some plan in mind."
"Actually I don't. I guess I'll see what happens."
Puck was about to say how crazy that sounded, but he couldn’t. He was in the same situation.
Author: hybridmusic
Characters: Kurt and Puck, possible puckurt
Rating: PG, may go higher
Word count: ~3800, this part
Summary: Puck and Kurt will do anything they have to get out of Lima. Against everyone's better judgement, they decide to get an apartment together. They never really even talked and now they don't really have a choice but to try to get along. Sort of fill for this prompt on the glee angst meme.
Author's note: This will probably end up having some stuff taken from my life.
Noah Puckerman left his beat up old car on the street unlocked. It wasn't that he didn't care about the car; he still needed it to get around. His ipod was in the glove compartment. He knew his belongings would be perfectly safe here in Lima, Ohio.
Nothing ever happened here.
Puck could picture every square house on every block in their flat little town. The large campus of Ohio State University that marked one of the only reasons people actually came here. All the cookie cutter buildings that provided shopping, entertainment and everything else people could want. Schoonover Park, Lost Creek Reservoir, Lima Memorial and countless other local landmarks.
Every house on this block looked practically identical, but his friends’ house stood out from the others. This was still a new house to them, but the memories remained. Despite all the hard times they’d gone through, Puck definitely spent more time at Finn's house than at his own. It wasn't as if there was anything wrong with his own place, but he couldn't handle the inescapable tension.
He burst into Finn's place without even knocking. He could hear music coming from the den, someone practicing piano. Puck wasn't familiar with the piece, a slow classical dirge and he wondered if Kurt was any good at it. There was no doubt it would be anyone but Kurt. The piece seemed to be flowing nicely, but than again, what did Puck know about that kind of music? He followed the noise towards the back of the house and kicked open the door.
The playing stopped abruptly and a tall, refined young man glanced up at him. Puck barely even nodded at him. "Hey Kurt, is Finn here?"
“No.” Kurt swept his hair off to one side. He turned away from Puck, clearly uninterested in continuing the conversation.
“Do you know where he is?”
Kurt just shrugged. “Haven’t seen him all day.”
Puck studied the younger man, even as Kurt turned back towards his piano music. The two never really spoke, but he realized he was curious about something. “Is this what you’ve been doing all summer?”
“So what if it is?” He placed his fingers on the keyboard, almost hunching uncomfortably over the piano.
“I just thought you’d be doing something more interesting with your free time, that’s all.” Puck had kind of always thought that Kurt would be the one to have a solid plan for the future. So far, Puck hadn’t seen Kurt try anything all summer.
Kurt glanced up at him. “I don’t see how it’s any of your business,” he snapped. “Now if you’ll excuse me, I have to practice.”
Puck shook his head, left the den and took out his phone to text Finn. “Where are you? Kurt's being annoying.”
He stood there for a long moment, waiting for a response. Kurt had started playing again, but this time it sounded almost hesitant, like he was distracted.
Puck didn’t know what to think about Kurt. Even though they'd spent a lot of time together, their limited conversations had always been strained. He seemed nice enough, but Puck had his own things to worry about. Kurt's life just seemed so complicated and rough around the edges... like a delicate shirt that someone had forgotten to hem. Almost like it was unfinished.
Puck had enough of that in his own little world.
There was just something about Kurt that had always mystified him. Puck sometimes wondered if it had anything to do with his mom dying when Kurt was so young... and it didn't take long for him to realize that yes, it probably had a lot to do with his mom dying. And suddenly, Puck would clam up and avoid Kurt and thank god he was never expected to say anything.
Why was Puck thinking so much about his Kurt anyway? Anything that had to do with Kurt in his life was over. They'd won nationals and that was that. He had better things to do. He headed towards the door, his phone finally ringing as he opened it. “Ignore him. Be there in five,” the text read.
Puck knew he was welcome to sit on the couch and channel surf, but instead he stepped outside and closed the door behind him. He needed some air.
He wondered if maybe he’d been so curious about Kurt’s plans because he didn’t have any of his own. Puck wasn’t an idiot and he’d seen how much effort Kurt had put in to try to get ahead. If that much work didn’t get him anywhere, it was almost like, why should Puck try at all? Maybe it was an excuse.
A car full of OSU kids sped by, the radio blaring loudly. Even though the campus was pretty much deserted for the summer, there were enough students around to take all the jobs from younger kids.
Puck probably could have gotten a scholarship to OSU if he had better grades. He’d heard the admissions board loved stories like his, not that it was anything special. His parents went through a nasty divorce before he could even remember. His dad had taken off for the west coast and here he was, stuck with his mom and his little sister. He’d spent most of his youth on the couch watching his sister while his mom worked overtime. His mom was an alumni of OSU, which was supposed to count for a lot in this town, but she still couldn't find a decent job.
As it was, he didn’t even apply to OSU. He didn’t want to stay in Lima, with its stadium that could hold more people than the population of the town. The world just seemed so much bigger than this dying town. Now it was almost August after graduation and he still wasn’t sure exactly where he was going. His thoughts drifted back to Kurt, who seemed to be in the same boat. Kurt was one of those kids that every teacher loved. He got good grades and was a talented performer. He wasn’t exactly popular, but he definitely had his own group of friends. It seemed like the only school Kurt had applied to was NYADA. Puck wondered why - he could probably go to any school he wanted to.
Finn’s car pulled quickly into the driveway, reminding Puck of another difference between the two families. Finn’s mom might be working overtime right next to his mom, but Burt was in government now and things had changed a lot for them. That sports car was brand new, for one thing. Finn jumped out of the car, laughing at Puck. “You look like an idiot, just standing there,” he remarked.
Finn shrugged, taking in his tan, broad shouldered friend. Finn was the polar opposite of Kurt. He was tall and popular, even if he wasn't very bright. Everyone knew Finn had a lot going for him to make up for what he might be lacking. Puck wouldn't be surprised if Finn started a business by the time he was 30. He had the charisma for it. "Where were you anyway?" Puck finally asked.
"Dealing with Rachel. She thinks we should break up," he sighed.
Puck had to admit he wasn't exactly surprised. While Finn was kind of straight laced, Rachel was a determined, high maintance girl who knew exactly what she wanted in life. Puck thought Finn needed someone more low key. Puck would never forget the time junior year when she came to school dressed like Britney Spears, just to see the reaction. Finn had loved that for all the wrong reasons. Puck shrugged, their relationship was none of his business. "It's too bad. You guys were great together."
Finn chuckled, "Right, whatever. What was Kurt saying to you, by the way? He's been weird all summer."
"Not much," Puck shrugged. "Don't you think it's weird he's acting like this?"
"Who knows with him?" Finn shook his head. Puck could understand that they weren't close, but shouldn't someone at least try to talk to him? "Anyway, are you ready? We were supposed to leave like half an hour ago."
Puck nodded, hopping into Finn's car. “I was just waiting for you. Wasn’t this was your idea in the first place?”
“Of course it was,” Finn smiled slyly. “I could really use it after that argument with Rachel.”
“Was it really that bad?”
“Oh yeah,” Finn looked behind him and started backing out of the driveway. Puck took one last look at their house before they turned the corner. One of their favorite bands that didn't usually come to their part of Ohio was playing a concert nearby. They had been looking forward to it all summer, but suddenly, Puck wasn’t really in the mood.
His thoughts stayed on the possibilities that the future might bring.
The truth was that he didn’t have much potential. This was never more clear than times when he arrived late like tonight and the house was a mess. There were times, especially after Puck's mom found out his dad had been in town, where she just lost it. Puck knew he couldn't leave his family here and even if he could, where would he go? He didn’t even have enough money anymore, not since he'd given it to his dad. He couldn't afford a bus ticket, let alone rent and food and countless living expenses that might come up. As he straightened up the house, he resigned himself to the fact that he might be serving cheeseburgers to guys at OSU for years to come. It wasn’t long until he passed out on the couch.
"Puck!" A voice called from the kitchen. "What are you doing, still sleeping? It's after noon! Get out of bed!"
Puck groaned and rolled over. "Mom, it's Saturday!"
"I don't care. I need some help in here."
That got him out of bed. She usually didn't ask for help unless she really needed it. He threw on some boxers and made his way into the kitchen. The lady was sitting at the kitchen table, staring down at a pile of bills. "What were you doing out so late?" She didn't even look up.
"I told you before, Ma. I went to that concert with Finn."
"That's fine for rich folks, but how much did that set you back? Where'd you get that money? I really hope you didn't do anything illegal!"
"I saved it for a long time." He shook his head, trying to figure out what exactly she thought he could be doing that was so wrong. He’d been on his best behavior since juvee, at least in front of her. As far as he knew, his mom didn't even know about those times he skipped class and hung out in the cemetery.
"Well if you ask me, it was a waste of money. What does it help you now that it's over?"
"It was fun! What's so wrong with having a little fun once in a while? Don't worry, I made sure there's enough money for food and everything else."
"What, you don't think I can take care of myself? I have plenty money without you." She glared up at him, her face looking more tired than usual. "Why don't you go get a real job, than maybe we can talk."
"You know there's no jobs in this town. I'm lucky to have my pool cleaning gig."
"Well, what are you still doing here? Go, get out of here. Go have fun, if that's what you wanna do. I don't wanna see you until you get your priorities straight."
"Are you serious? What about you? How will you make do?"
She just nodded. "Maybe you'll learn some responsibility in your sorry little life. Don't worry about me, I can take care of myself. I managed to take care of you all this time, didn't I?"
Puck nodded. "I just worry about you guys, that's all."
"Don't worry. I'll be right here when you come back. Now get out of here!"
Puck left the apartment before she could change her mind. He hurried down the street towards his car, taking in the familiar sights of eastern Lima. They lived in the poorer section of town, near the small industrial district. Puck kind of always thought he would end up working at one of the small factories, maybe calibrating parts for minimum wage. Now where would he go? He suddenly felt like all his talents weren't enough to make it anywhere, but he knew he had to try. What else could he do? He hopped in his car and headed over to Finn's place.
Their new house was practically a mansion compared to anything else in this town. It was a white Victorian house, with grand columns on either side of the bright red door. Now when Puck pushed his way inside, he almost bumped into a little kid that was running towards the kitchen. The girl looked up at him, her eyes wide. “Finn, your weird friend is here!”
She giggled, running ahead of him into the other room. She briefly glanced back at him, trying to get another peek. Puck hesitated before following her into the kitchen. The whole family was there, looking like they were just finishing a massive barbecue lunch. Puck’s stomach growled, reminding him that he hadn’t eaten anything yet that day.
“Come in, sit down and have a burger,” Finn's mom smiled up at him, but Puck had to wonder how sincere she really was. She had never really forgiven him ever since that thing with Quinn. Turns out moms take that kind of thing personally. She had a big smile that always somehow seemed misplaced.
Puck glanced at Finn, who just shrugged at him. The food smelled really good and Puck couldn’t resist. He piled up his plate and sat down next to Finn, who was finished eating, but still sipping from a cup of soda. “Sorry, I guess I should have texted you,” Puck muttered.
Finn shrugged. “Don’t worry about it. There’s plenty of left overs. Besides, maybe you’ll give me an excuse to get out of here.”
Puck looked around the crowded room. Kurt’s father was watching a game on the small kitchen TV, cheering on his team right next to his brother in law, Ted. Burt's younger sister Lisa was trying to feed her baby, but somehow just making a huge mess. The other kids were chasing each other around the room, in between every one's legs. Kurt was sitting in a corner, quietly reading a novel. They might not be the picture of a perfect family but at least they were something. Finn couldn’t remember the last time his mom had spoken to him without yelling. The last time his father even called.
Puck shook his head, not sure what was bothering Finn. He looked towards Finn and said, “Relax, we can hang out here for a while.”
Finn almost rolled his eyes, “we do these barbecues every week, it’s not a big deal. Nobody even talks to each other. Even Kurt gets away without saying anything.”
Kurt glanced up, raising an eyebrow curiously. “Why do you have to single me out of everyone? Do you expect me to give a monologue or something?”
“No, I just figured you’re so great at everything else,” Finn shook his head. “The only thing I don’t understand is this whole ‘college is limiting’ crusade you’re on lately.”
“That’s exactly what it is! Why should I pay thousands of dollars to hear some professor’s opinion about the way he thinks things should be?”
“You’re insane. Just because you didn't get into NYADA, you decide the whole system is wack?”
"Oh, you're one to talk," Kurt rolled his eyes.
Finn eyed Kurt carefully. “That’s not what this is about and you know it!”
“Calm down. Kurt, I've been thinking,” Burt started, breaking through the tension. “Now that I'm down in Washington, I've got some play down at the OSU admissions office. There’s still a few open spots. You can’t get a scholarship, but Carol and I would be glad to help you out, Kurt.”
Kurt seemed to feel threatened by all this. “It’s not about the money. I don’t want to stay here... I’m moving to the city.”
The whole room instantly grew quiet. The kids stopped running around and even the action on TV seemed to pause. Everyone turned to looked at Kurt. “Why? You know we're here for you.” Burt was the first to react.
“You know how hard it's been for me here. I said I was going to New York to go to NYADA and I haven’t changed my mind. I think it's time to start over. Actually, I think I’m gonna get going soon. The summer’s almost over, time to start thinking about the future.”
Finn narrowed his eyes, studying Kurt closely. “Right, it’s about your pride. You’re too foolish to take some help when you’re given it. You’ve got to realize that everyone has to start somewhere. How do you think the president got elected or meals on wheels got started? Someone gave them a leg up. Now it’s your turn and if I were you, I’d take all the help I could get. I have things to do, but I think you should stick around here for a while.”
Carol nodded. “We would help out either of you in this situation.”
Their father nodded in agreement. “This is about your future. Your best chance is here, at Ohio State.” His eyes glowed with hometown pride.
“Thanks for the generous offer, but I guess we’ll have to agree to disagree,” Kurt shrugged.
“It’s your future,” his father said ominously. “You can do what you like, but we can't pay rent if you're out of town.”
“But you would pay tuition if I stay here?”
“Yes, I'm sorry, but it's a whole different ball game. You could help out with the business if you stay here.”
"I guess that's it, then." Kurt just nodded, turning and starting down the hall.
Puck stared after him and hesitated only a moment before starting after him.
==
“Kurt! Hey, wait up!” Puck called after him as he headed towards his car.
Kurt glanced over his shoulder and rolled his eyes. “What? They sent you after me to try to change my mind? Thanks. Not interested.”
“No,” Puck shook his head. “You’re headed towards the city?”
“Yeah, New York. The land of opportunity,” he chuckled.
“Maybe I could come with you. I don’t have a lot of money, but we could split gas and tolls. I don’t have much going for me here either; I could use a fresh start.”
“Wait, let me get this straight. You wanna come with me?" He shook his head. "I know you heard everything that happened back there, but I’m not sure you should get involved in this mess.”
“It doesn’t seem like such a big deal to me. Look, are your parents gonna disown you just because you’re not staying in town? Probably not. Even if they do, been there, done that,” he rolled his eyes.
Kurt seemed to consider that. “Your dad...”
“What? Took off the second I got in the way? Yeah, that’s basically what happened.”
Kurt shook his head. “Look, no offense but I don’t wanna stand out here for too long. Trying to prove a point here. I’d appreciate it if you just went home or whatever.”
Puck shrugged, “My mom basically kicked me out. I think she’s trying to teach me responsibility or something like that.”
Kurt studied the other man for a long moment. Finally he nodded, “Well, get in the car, if you’re coming. I’d like to make some headway before dark.”
He nodded and got into the shiny car. The car was neat and uncluttered, it seemed to have barely been driven at all. They were silent as they drove through the sleepy town, Kurt following the traffic laws perfectly. Puck turned to him when he switched on his blinker when he should have gone straight, “Where you going?”
Kurt turned into a little shopping plaza. “I figured I might as well get some cash while I still have the chance. We’ll stop for food and gas in a little bit. Do you need to get any money?”
Puck shook his head. He hadn’t told Finn, but the gas to the concert had been the last of his life savings. He had his last hundred bucks stashed in his back pocket. “I’m good,” he said roughly.
Puck waited while Kurt went out to make the withdrawal. Maybe this was a bad idea, but what choice did he have? He didn't want money being the only reason stopping him from getting out of this sorry town. He knew his mom would be glad to have him back, but he didn't want to prove her right.
Kurt got back in the car, flashing a rather thick stack of bills. "It's not much, but hopefully it will last us a while."
Puck just eyed him silently. It seemed like a lot of money to him.
"Can I ask you something?” Kurt glanced over at him. “You're not stupid. I don't understand why you didn't apply to any colleges."
"I could ask you the same thing, I mean other than NYADA," he shook his head, hoping Kurt didn’t explode at him. "You know how you said it's not about the money? Well, I wish I had that problem. I can't get a scholarship for football or guitar or anything I'm halfway decent at."
Kurt shrugged. "I actually think that college is kind of limiting. I don't want to be tied down for the next four years."
"You could say the opposite... at least you know what you'll be doing for four years."
"I don't think like that. The world is full of possibility, it's a shame to waste it."
"So what are you gonna do in New York? You must have some plan in mind."
"Actually I don't. I guess I'll see what happens."
Puck was about to say how crazy that sounded, but he couldn’t. He was in the same situation.