"So here's what you missed on Glee. Puck tried to steal an ATM and ended up in juvie," the narrator's voice played as Puck getting arrested played. "As far as badasses go, I'm number one," Puck objected. "Sam and Quinn are sort of a couple, and so are Mike and Tina. Artie and Brittany went out, but then he sorta dumped her and now he sorta wants her back," the narrator said as clips of Sam and Quinn, Mike and Tina, and Artie and Brittany played. "Brittany became cheer captain once Quinn got Santana demoted to the bottom of the pyramid by telling Sue about her surgery," the narrator said as a clip of Brittany as captain played as well as Quinn and Santana's fight. "You have a surgery when you get your appendix out. You got a boob job," Quinn yelled. "And that's what you missed on..." the narrator's voice said. "GLEE!" The other voices sang.
Cut to the choir room where everyone seemed to be whispering and talking to each other as Quinn entered the choir room. "What's going on?" Quinn asked. "You didn't hear?" Brittany asked. "Hear what?" Quinn asked. "Puck is out of juvie. Today's his first day back," Brittany said. "It's about time," Santana said as she filed her nails "Things were getting too boring around here without him." Quinn's eyes grew wide. This couldn't be happening. Not when she just moved on. She did her best to avoid eye contact with Puck as she took her seat.
Cut to Kurt and Tina in the hallway. "I take it we have a lot of sweater trends to look forward to this season," Tina grinned as Kurt smiled back at her. Kurt was then shoved into the lockers by Karofsky as Tina looked horrified. "You okay?" She asked. "Yeah. Fine," Kurt said brushing it off as they entered the choir room and quickly took their seats before Mr. Schue took over.
"Alright guys, let's get down to business! First, let's welcome back Noah Puckerman," Mr. Schue said as some of the members of the New Directions clapped for him. Quinn however looked away. "Puck, I hope your time in juvie has taught you a lesson or two about right and wrong?" Mr. Schue said. "Are you kidding me? I ruled that place. All I did was crack skulls and lift weights all day," Puck said cockily. "Oh, what a catch, can't believe I ever let you go," Quinn said sarcastically rolling her eyes, still not looking Puck in the eye.
"And now, drumroll, Finn!" Mr. Schue said as Finn did a mock drumroll with his hands. "Because I have in my hand our competition for sectionals next month." The New Directions excitedly chattered. "First, the acapella group from the all-boys private school in Westerville, the Dalton Academy Warblers," Mr. Schue said as the Glee Club cheered. "Okay, hold up. Like a million awesome gay jokes just popped into my head," Santana smirked as Kurt gave her a dirty look. "And the other team to beat, the Hipsters. A first-year club from the Warren township continuing education program. Now, they are a glee club composed entirely of elderly people getting their high school GEDs," Mr. Schue read. "Is that legal?" Rachel asked horrified. "How are we supposed to compete against a bunch of adorable old people?" Mercedes asked as Puck turned around. "Are you kidding? Brittle bones," he smirked "Give one of those old ladies a good luck pat on the rear, it'll shatter her pelvis." Mr. Schue shook his head. "Moving on. Since this seems to get you guys jazzed about sectionals last year, I wanna make this week our second annual boys versus girls tournament," Mr. Schue said as the glee club cheered "So! Split up into two groups, and, uh, figure out which songs you're gonna sing."
The guys and girls quickly split up into their two teams and began discussing ideas when Kurt headed to be on the girls team. "Kurt, gonna say it again. Boys team," Mr. Schue said as Kurt looked upset as he quickly slinked away to the boys side. He sat down less than thrilled as the bell then rang and the New Directions got up.
Kurt walked solemnly out of the choir room. "This isn't good," Quinn frowned a bit to Mercedes and Tina. "I know what you mean Quinn. I feel sorry for Kurt," Mercedes agreed. "That's not the worst part of it," Tina frowned. "Really? What happened?" Mercedes asked. "The reason Kurt and I were late to Glee Rehearsal was because Karofsky shoved him into the lockers," Tina frowned. "What?" Mercedes and Quinn exclaimed. "I couldn't believe it. I know it's happened to him before but this time it just seemed so personal," Tina said upset. "Poor Kurt," Quinn said shaking her head. "Yeah he doesn't deserve to go through this," Mercedes agreed. "I know...look don't tell him I told you anything," Tina said as she left with Mike.
"Hey you ready to go?" Sam asked as he approached Quinn. "Definitely. See you around Mercedes," Quinn smiled a bit as she and Mercedes said their goodbyes. Sam and Quinn headed off down the hallway. "Are you okay? You know, now that he's back?" Sam asked Quinn worriedly. "I've been better," Quinn admitted honestly "Why are you so concerned about Puck being back?" "I just don't want things between us to change...especially now that he's back," Sam frowned. "You have nothing to worry about," Quinn assured Sam as he kissed Quinn sweetly as he headed off, Quinn turned around to see the last person she wanted to standing behind her, Puck.
"So I wasn't good enough for you yet you got together with the new kid? What's up with that?" Puck demanded. "Leave me alone," Quinn said trying to move past him. He grabbed her arm stopping her from leaving. "I meant everything I told you. I still care for you Quinn. Look I may not show it all the time but I mean it," Puck said looking Quinn in the eyes. Quinn could see it in his eyes that he truly meant what he was saying but she knew she couldn't go back now. "You're too late," Quinn whispered to Puck as he looked hurt and dumbfounded "I'm with Sam now. I'm not going to hurt him. I made that mistake with Finn and I'm not going to make it again," Quinn told Puck seriously as he let her go, watching her leave as he tried to keep himself together.
Puck then approached Artie at his locker as he took Artie's wheelchair. "I know it's not my place to ask, but can you push me down the back staircase? My injuries should be the same, but it's more lightly populated so the humiliation won't be as bad," Artie asked. "Relax, I'm here to take care of you! You're my boy now," Puck smirked. "I don't understand," Artie said confused. "I got outta juvie early because I agreed to do community service, and I ain't picking up trash along the freeway, that's ghetto. So I told my probey officer I knew a cripple that needed help and she went for it," Puck smirked. "I'm your community service?" Artie asked dumbfounded. "No way I'm going back to juvie. There's no chicks, and no kosher meal options at that place," Puck huffed. "Cool, so we're like friends," Artie grinned as Puck shook his head. "Whoa, slow down, Professor X, I never said anything about liking you," Puck said as Artie's face fell "Now, shut up real quick. We're gonna steal some food from the cafeteria. This chair's a great place for hiding stuff."
Cut to Kurt walking down the hallway as he is shoved once again by Karofsky. "What is your problem?" Kurt yelled at Karofsky as he began to walk away. "You talking back to me?" Karofsky asked annoyed "You want a piece of the Fury?" "The Fury?" Kurt asked confused. "It's what I named my fist," Karofsky smirked, proud of himself. "Well, with that level of creativity, you could easily become assistant manager at a rendering plant," Kurt muttered as Karofsky approached him. "I don't know what that is, but if I find out it's bad, the Fury's gonna find you," Karofsky huffed as he walked off leaving a terrified Kurt at the lockers as Mr. Schue who was watching the whole encounter approached him.
Cut to Mr. Schue's office where Kurt is seated. "Is there anything that I could do?" Mr. Schue asked. "No. This is my hill to climb alone," Kurt said solemnly. "Can I be honest?" Mr. Schue asked as Kurt nodded "I think it's getting to you. Usually this stuff rolls right off your back, but lately you've been belligerent, angry, pushing people away." "Can I be honest with you?" Kurt sighed as Mr. Schue nodded "You, like everyone else at this school, are too quick to let homophobia slide. And your lesson plans are boring and repetitive. Boys versus girls? That doesn't challenge any of us." "You mean because I didn't let you join the girls like you wanted?" Mr. Schue asked "To answer your question, yes. I'm unhappy," Kurt said as he got up to leave "And yes, being the only out gay kid at this school gets me down. But most of all, I'm not challenged in the least here." Kurt walked out of Mr. Schue's office as Mr. Schue looked saddened. Kurt had been one of the founding members of Glee Club, hearing him saying he wasn't challenged in the least gave Mr. Schue an idea.
Cut to the choir room where Mr. Schue is talking to the New Directions. "I'm not tossing the baby out with the bath water here," Mr. Schue said. "I've totally done that," Brittany said as Mr. Schue made a face. "We're just making an adjustment. Instead of just our averages boys vs. girls competition this will be the first ever Battle of the Bands. Boys, you are now doing songs traditionally sung by girls groups," Mr. Schue said as Kurt's face lit up this was the opportunity he had been waiting for, a chance to be challenged. "And girls, try some rock. The Who, the Stones. The more opposite your choice, the more choice you get," Mr. Schue said as the girls seemed to nod. Kurt then pulled the guys in. "Don't worry, gentlemen. I have this one under control," Kurt grinned.
Cut to the guys in the Spanish classroom where Kurt is presenting his ideas for the mashup. "Now! Obviously for this medley to work, I'm gonna have to sing lead, and of course when you're singing Diana Ross, Bob Mikas feather boas are a must," Kurt said using a pointer to point to his board. "Isn't this lesson about opposites?" Artie asked looking to the other guys confused "I mean, you in a sequin gown and feather boa is exactly what you'd expect." "Okay, who said anything about a gown?" Kurt asked somewhat annoyed. "Uh, dude. Why don't you make yourself useful and go put some rat poison in them old folks' jell-o or visit the Garglers?" Puck said as he walked to his seat. "The Warblers," Kurt corrected. "Whatever. See what they're up to," Puck said without a care as he threw the football to Finn "And you can wear all the feathers you want. You'll blend right in."
Kurt was clearly hurt by what Puck had to say to him. With this new theme he thought maybe, just maybe he'd get the respect of his team. "Fine," Kurt sighed as he got his boards, packing up to leave as Sam, Mike, and Finn exchanged looks of shock."Kurt...you don't have to leave," Finn frowned a bit as Kurt turned around. "I think everyone else has made it very clear that I'm not welcome here. You think you can do this without me, fine. I have other things I can do," Kurt said in a hurt tone as he rushed out of the classroom. "What's his problem?" Puck smirked. "Uhh you were kind of rude to him," Sam said exchanging puzzled looks with Finn and Mike. "And what's it to you, quarterback?" Puck said. "Kurt's a part of this team and you're kind of going out of your way to make him an outsider," Sam shot back. Puck rolled his eyes. "Don't you get it, he's always been the outsider of this group. Like it or not he'd rather be performing with the girls which is what he made very clear in practice today," Puck said. "So because he tried to enter the girls group you're going to shun him now?" Sam asked confused. "Well...he was the one who told the girls about our Vitamin D possession last year," Finn offered biting his lip. Sam shook his head, clearly upset by this. "I guess I get where you're coming from but understand this, without Kurt, we might as well hand the win to the girls," Sam said as he exited the classroom.
Kurt drove himself for the hour and a half drive to Dalton Academy. Looking around the place seemed a lot more friendly than McKinley High. Sure, the guys were wearing uniforms but they looked so...dignified. Kurt could see there were a bunch of students rushing to something but he couldn't figure it out. He stopped a guy who looked friendly with dark curly hair and brown eyes. "Oh, excuse me. Um, hi. Can I ask you a question? I'm new here," Kurt said as the boy turned around and smiled. "My name's Blaine," Blaine said. "Kurt. So what exactly is going on?" Kurt asked. "The Warblers! Every now and then they throw an inpromptu performance in the senior commons. Tends to shut the school up for a while," Blaine explained. "So, wait, the glee club here is kind of cool?" Kurt asked confused. "The Warblers are like rock stars," Blaine grinned as Kurt nodded "Come on, I know a shortcut," Blaine said as he grabbed Kurt's hand and ran with him down the hallway. Kurt couldn't help but grin the entire time he was with Blaine. There was just something about him that Kurt just instantly connected to. They soon arrived at the senior commons. "Ooh, I stick out like a sore thumb," Kurt said awkwardly. "Well, next time, don't forget your jacket, new kid. You'll fit right in," Blaine smiled as he then joined the Warblers "Now, if you'll excuse me."
Blaine then began to sing the Katy Perry hit 'Teenage Dream' with the Warblers. Kurt was mesmerized by his performance.
Kurt couldn't help but smile through the Warbler's performance. Blaine was not only kind enough to have brought him to the performance not knowing who he was but he also was an amazing singer. Kurt couldn't help but feel like their connection was something special. In some ways he wished he wasn't at the competing school. He felt that he and Blaine could really have something special together, whether it be a friendship or more. Kurt left Dalton Academy that afternoon having found something more than what he originally came for.
The next day at school Puck and Artie were in the middle of the courtyard. "Shouldn't we be studying geometry, aren't you failing?" Artie asked awkwardly as Puck got his guitar out. "One thing I learned in juvie, cash is king," Puck said as he threw some ones into his guitar case "Lets people know we're not doing it for free." "What, you think people are gonna pay us to sing? I don't think busking is allowed in school," Artie said awkwardly. "Watch and learn, young jedi in a wheelchair," Puck smirked as he began to play his guitar to 'One Love' by Bob Marley and the Wailers. "This is so....badass," Artie said in shock as Puck began to go around to get people to pay them.
People continued to put money in the guitar case throughout the performance. "Holy crap, there's like three hundred bucks in here," Artie said surprised. "Yeah, you really can't put a dollar mat on the value of talent plus fear," Puck smirked. "I can, it's about three hundred bucks," Artie chuckled then asked "What are we gonna do with it?" "Buy a buttload of clove cigarettes and the rest, I don't know," Puck shrugged as he noticed Artie looking at Brittany as she walked down the stairs with Santana "You want her? You don't need any cash for that. She's free." "She was my first. Now I think I want her back," Artie admitted. "So go get her," Puck said. "It's not that simple, I was kind of mean to her when I blew her off," Artie said honestly. "Oh, this is perfect," Puck exclaimed as Artie looked confused "The thing about chicks is you only have to be a fraction as nice to them as you are mean to them to get them to like you again." "So what do we do?" Artie asked. "Here's a little community service coming at ya. You and I are gonna and go on a double date with Santana and Brittany to the 'Stix," Puck smirked. "Yeah!" Artie grinned as he and Puck fist pumped. "Best community servicer ever, right?" Puck smirked as the bell rang.
Blaine invited Kurt to get some coffee at a local cafe. "Latte?" Blaine asked as he handed Kurt the latte. "Thank you," Kurt said in a whispery voice, had he been caught? "This is Wes and David." Blaine said introducing the other Warblers who came with him. "It's very civilized of you to invite me for coffee before you beat me up for spying," Kurt said. "We are not going to beat you up," David said. "You were such a terrible spy, we thought it was sort of endearing," Wes smiled a bit. "Which made me think that spying on us wasn't really the reason you came." Blaine said. "Can I ask you guys a question?" Kurt asked as the three guys nodded "Are you guys all gay?" That got a chuckle out of all three guys. Kurt felt like he wanted to disappear at that moment, were none of them gay? "Uh, uh, no. I mean, I am, but no, these two have girlfriends," Blaine said honestly as Kurt's eyes seem to light up. Blaine was also gay, so this time he really did have a chance. "This is not a gay school. We just have a zero tolerance harassment policy," Wes said honestly. "Everybody gets treated the same. No matter what they are. It's pretty simple," David said as Blaine could see the wheels spinning in Kurt's head. "Would you guys excuse us?" Blaine said as David and Wes got up. "Take it easy, Kurt," David said as he left.
"I take it you're having trouble at school," Blaine said. "I'm the only person out of the closet at my school," Kurt admitted emotionally "And I tried to stay strong about it, but there's this Neanderthal who's made it his mission to make my life a living hell. And nobody seems to notice." "I know how you feel," Blaine admitted as Kurt felt so much closer to him "I got taunted at my old school, and it really pissed me off. I even complained about it to the faculty. And they were sympathetic and all, but you could just tell that nobody really cared. It was like, hey, if you're gay, your life's just gonna be miserable. Sorry. Nothing we can do about it," Blaine paused as Kurt couldn't have agreed more. It was nice to finally talk to someone who was going through what he was. "So I left. I came here. Simple as that," Blaine said as he took a breath "So you have two options. I mean, I'd love to tell you to just come enroll here, but tuition at Dalton's sort of steep, and I know that's not an option for everybody. Or you can refuse to be the victim. Prejudice is just ignorance, Kurt. And you have a chance right now to teach him." "How?" Kurt asked. "Confront him. Call him out," Blaine said as Kurt looked surprised as Blaine got emotional. "I ran, Kurt. I didn't stand up. I let bullies chase me away. And it is something that I really, really regret." Kurt knew he had a lot to consider. As much as he loved being at McKinley there was something about Dalton that just felt more like home to him. Sure, he'd be far away from his friends and family but if things kept up the way they were going with Karofsky, Kurt knew it was an option he had to consider at the very least as a last resort. Kurt left Dalton feeling so much more at peace than he'd ever felt before. Meeting Blaine saved him. Sure, he'd been down before but Glee Club was what picked him up. Maybe he needed a friend who was gay to help him through all the hurdles.
Cut to the Choir room that afternoon where the girls are discussing last year's competition. "The boys beat us the last time we competed against them, we've gotta bring the noise hard this time," Mercedes said. "To be fair, they didn't officially beat us. We got busted for Vitamin D possession before the vote," Quinn offered. "Wait. Something's definitely wrong," Santana said as everyone looked at her "Why isn't Rachel talking?" "Yeah, she should totally be bossing us around right now," Brittany agreed. "The idea of the assignment was to do the opposite of what we normally do," Rachel said finally speaking "I'm just trying to stick to the lesson plan, which is proving nearly impossible since you're gluing the sequins on backwards." Puck and Artie then began to enter the choir room "Spies!" Rachel screamed. "Lighten up! We're here to talk to Santana and Brittany," Puck smirked as he then turned to Artie and whispered "Remember: don't trust your instincts." "Hmm. So. How does it feel to be a free man?" Santana said flirtatiously to Puck. "All I can say is I don't want a long-term relationship with either of you," Artie said before adding "Especially Brittany since I'm not in love with her." "Do you guys wanna go out to dinner tonight?" Brittany asked. "Not really," Puck said coolly. "Oh," Santana said. "Tell you what. You two show up at Breadstix tomorrow night around seven, and if we don't find hotter chicks to date tonight, we might show up," Puck smirked. "You are totally cool," Santana said breathlessly. "Awesome," Brittany grinned as Puck walked out rolling Artie, satisfied with his accomplishment. "I can't believe it. You're a genius," Artie said shaking his head as Puck smirked. Of course things were going to work out how he wanted. Why wouldn't they?
Rachel, Quinn, Mercedes, and Tina exchanged weirded out glances. How could Brittany and Santana have fallen for what Puck did? "Oh I know you're so jealous Quinn Fabray, you're seething," Santana smirked. Quinn rolled her eyes "No I'm actually not. Seeing the way he acted towards you reminds me why I things didn't work out between us," Quinn said going back to working on her jacket. "It didn't happen because he wants me," Santana said as Quinn scoffed. "Seriously guys. Is Puck really worth fighting over?" Mercedes said shaking her head. "Funny you should say that Wheezy since you and I had our little smackdown in Glee Club over him and he chose me. Weird," Santana smirked. "Okay he did not choose you. He continued to date me remember?" Mercedes said as Santana rolled her eyes "We only broke up because I didn't like who he was around the other jocks." "Whatever. The point is he's with me and I'm not giving that up for anything," Santana smirked as the girls went back to ignoring her as they worked on their costumes.
Kurt was noticeably absent from the guys rehearsals. He simply didn't feel like anyone appreciated him. Sure, Finn tried to stand up for him but Kurt knew no matter what he did he was always going to be an outsider in the group. He was by his locker packing his things when Sam approached him. "We've missed you at Glee rehearsals," Sam said kindly. "I seriously doubt that. I think all you 'bros' are probably working together just fine without me," Kurt said continuing to look into his locker and not at Sam. "That's not true," Sam frowned as Kurt looked up at him "Look, I can't speak for the other guys but it feels like we have a piece missing without you for this whole boys vs. girls thing. I know what Puck said deeply hurt you but he doesn't speak for all of us. We could really use your expertise to win this competition." Kurt seemed to think about it. He was surprised that Sam would even bother talking to him. There had been no bad blood between them but Sam was the star quarterback, on the track to be the most popular guy in school and Kurt simply wasn't. He knew Finn came around but it took a lot for him to stop hanging out with the other football players, Sam just seemed different. "Okay I'll come back....on one condition," Kurt said. "Name it," Sam said. "I'll be in charge of wardrobe," Kurt grinned as Sam playfully wrapped his arm around Kurt. "You've got yourself a deal," Sam said as he then walked off. Kurt couldn't help but feel so much more hopeful after talking to Sam. Sure he had Blaine now and things seemed brighter but maybe he wouldn't have to leave McKinley after all.
The next night at Breadstix Puck was telling Santana and Brittany the riveting stories from juvie. "So there I was at juvie in the breakfast line in the mess hall, when I notice me and the guy behind me going for the same waffle. This guy's 6'11. 300 easy. He's got his teeth filed into canines, tats everywhere. It gets better. So I turn around, I flex my left peck, and I flex my right peck. And I say to the guy, leggo my eggo," Puck said as the others looked intrigued "And you know what he does? He lets go of my eggo!" Santana, Artie, and Brittany celebrated. "You should be our nation's president," Santana said clearly into Puck. "Maybe," Puck shrugged as Brittany continued to squeeze Artie's leg. "I've been squeezing your leg for like, the last hour and a half," she said seriously as she then whispered "Are you not attracted to me?" "Sorry, I was really distracted by our waitress," Artie said playing it cool like Puck had taught him to as Puck nodded "She's totally into me."
The Waitress then approached them, she was an elderly woman who Artie clearly wasn't into. "I can take that when you're ready," the waitress said kindly. "Thank you," Artie smiled as the waitress left the check then walked away. "Alright, guys, let's move, this meal has been comped," Puck said. "What?" Artie asked confused, where was Puck going with this? "Dude, I don't pay for food. It's my thing, yo. So we're going to dine and dash," Puck said as Artie looked conflicted "Let's go." Santana and Brittany got up with Puck to leave while Artie stayed behind quickly stuffing a 20 into the check. "Do you need any change?" The waitress asked. "Keep it. Thanks," Artie said softly as the waitress walked off.
Puck walked back to Artie angrily "What the hell was that about?" "Sorry, I couldn't do it," Artie sighed "She gave us free refills, and I figure she's got kids, I'm not gonna do that to her." "Whatever dude, you wussed out," Puck said rolling his eyes "So have fun taking the short bus home, because I'll be escorting these lovely ladies back to che Puckerman for a little sookie-sookie." "Wait. Seriously?" Artie said dumbfounded. "Damn straight," Puck said "I'm giving you all my trade secrets here. If you don't want my help, then fine. You're on your own." Puck then left with Brittany and Santana leaving Artie hurt and alone.
Cut to the Battle of the Bands where the girls are up performing their song which is a mashup of 'Viva La Vida' by Coldplay and 'My Generation' by the Who.
"I used to rule the world. Seas would rise when I gave the word. Now in the morning, I sleep alone. Sweep the streets I used to own," Quinn sang. "I used to roll the dice, feel the fear in my enemy's eyes. Listen as the crowd would sing now the old king is dead! Long live the king! One minute I held the key next the walls were closed on me and I discovered that my castles stand upon pillars of salt and pillars of sand," Rachel sang. "I hear Jerusalem bells are ringing. Roman Cavalry choirs are singing. Be my mirror, my sword and shield, my missionaries in a foreign field. For some reason I can't explain once you go there was never," Quinn, Rachel, Tina, Santana, Mercedes, and Brittany sang "Never a honest word and that was when I ruled the world," Tina sang as the song then change tempo. "People try to put us d-down," Santana sang. "Talkin' 'bout my generation," Quinn, Rachel, Tina, Mercedes, and Brittany sang. "Just because we get around," Santana sang. "Talkin' 'bout my generation," Quinn, Rachel, Tina, and Brittany sang. "Things they do look awful c-c-cold," Mercedes sang. " Talkin' 'bout my generation," Quinn, Rachel, Santana, Tina, and Brittany sang. "I hope I die before I get old," Mercedes sang. "Talkin' 'bout my generation," Quinn, Rachel, Tina, and Brittany sang. "It's my generation, it's my generation," Santana sang while the other girls went back to singing 'Viva La Vida'. "Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh," Quinn, Rachel, Tina, Mercedes, and Brittany sang. "I hear Jerusalem bells are ringing. Roman Cavalry choirs are singing. Be my mirror, my sword and shield. My missionaries in a foreign field. For some reason I can't explain I know Saint Peter won't call my name," Quinn, Rachel, Tina, Santana, Mercedes, and Brittany sang as they changed the song to 'My Generation' once again. "Talkin' bout my generation," the girls sang as the posed as the guys cheered.
During the middle of the girl's performance Kurt got a text from Blaine that said "Courage" and he couldn't stop smiling at it. Blaine knew exactly what to say to try to help him through this. "Wow....ladies I'm impressed," Mr. Schue said as the girls grinned "Where did that mashup idea come from?" "We just talked through songs and this is what worked," Santana shrugged. "Excellent. Great job ladies. Guys, you've got a lot to live up to after that," Mr. Schue chuckled as the boys couldn't help but feel nervous. Their group was so disjointed at this point, could they actually have a shot to win the Battle of the Bands?
Cut to the Hallway where Kurt is still smiling down at his text from Blaine when once again Karofsky shoved him. Kurt decided right then and there that he was going to confront him. Like Blaine said, he needed to fight back "Hey!" Kurt screamed as he followed Karofsky into the locker room "I am talking to you!" "Girls locker room's next door," Karofsky smirked as he continued to go through his locker. "What is your problem?" Kurt shot back. "Excuse me?" Karofsky said as he faced Kurt."What are you so scared of?" Kurt asked. "Besides you sneaking in here to peek at my junk?" Karofsky smirked. "Oh yeah, every straight guy's nightmare, that all us gays are secretly out to molest and convert you. Well guess what, Hammerhawk? You're not my type," Kurt shot back. "That right?" Karofsky said amused. "Yeah. I don't like chubby boys who sweat too much and are gonna be bald by the time they're thirty," Kurt shot back as Karofsky slammed his locker shut."Do not push me, Hummel," Karofsky huffed. "You gonna hit me? Do it." Kurt said in his most courageous voice. "Don't push me!" Karofsky huffed again as he got close to Kurt. "Hit me, 'cause it's not gonna change who I am," Kurt said confidently "You can't punch the gay out of me anymore than I can push the ignoramus out of you." "Get out of my face!" Karofsky huffed. "You are nothing but a scared little boy who can't handle how extraordinarily ordinary you are!" Kurt exclaimed as Karofsky got closer and what Kurt thought was going to be a punch turned into the one thing he didn't expect from Karofsky, his first kiss.
Kurt was stunned as Karofsky pulled away, he was frozen. Karofsky picked on him because he liked him? It made no sense to Kurt. Why would he want to make Kurt's life miserable if they were the same? Karofsky punched his locker as he stormed off, leaving Kurt still frozen and unsure of what had just happened.
Sam then entered the locker room. "You okay, dude?" Sam asked worried about the look on Kurt's face. "I'm fine," Kurt said quickly trying to pull himself together. "You don't look fine. You look like you've just seen a ghost," Sam said. "It's nothing," Kurt said brushing it off as he grabbed his things "I've got to go." "Why?" Sam asked confused. "My dad's expecting me home," Kurt lied as he rushed out of the locker room leaving Sam dumbfounded, what exactly had happened to Kurt and why was he so jumpy?
Cut to the guys in Mr. Schue's Spanish Room where the guys besides Kurt were, Sam had called them in to talk about what he witnessed with Kurt. "I'm telling you guys I have never seen Kurt look so...scared before," Sam said. "It's got to be Karofsky. That guy's been giving Kurt a hard time but not in the fun joking kind of way," Puck said. "It wouldn't surprise me. Tina saw him shove Kurt before," Mike added. "But what could he have possibly done to make Kurt that afraid?" Finn asked worriedly. "Beats me," Puck shrugged "All I know is if Karofsky's the reason behind Kurt's terror we need to be as supportive as we can of him. He already feels like he's on the outside looking in with us," Sam said as Finn, Mike, and Artie nodded. "So I made a couple of jokes. Big whoop. Kurt knows I have his back," Puck said. "No. He doesn't," Sam objected "If you maybe put more effort into talking to him maybe you'd know that." Puck looked pissed off "What the hell is that supposed to mean?" He demanded. "It means you need to be a better teammate to Kurt. I know you just got back but you've known him longer than I have. You guys worked together before, what's changed this time?" Sam asked. Puck shrugged "Fine. You'll get your way star quarterback, anything else I can do for you?" Puck said sarcastically. Sam narrowed his eyes "You could stay away from my girl." "Your girl?" Puck asked. "Yeah. Quinn," Sam said. "Quinn's not your property. She can do what she wants," Puck smirked. "I saw you talking to her after I left. She looked upset. I can't have you bothering her again," Sam said. "Oh she told you about her story. How cute," Puck said mockingly as Sam saw red. "She went through a lot last year and I'm sure without you support no less," Sam said getting in Puck's face. "Oh you want to go there," Puck said as he got in Sam's face. "Guys!" Finn exclaimed getting between them "Seriously? We're supposed to be a team. Puck, if Sam says he's with Quinn then he's with Quinn. Back off," Finn told Puck seriously. "Fine. She's kind of a prude anyway, you can have her," Puck said as Sam shook his head as the guys went back to working on their assignment, once again without Kurt.
Kurt stood outside the choir room, hesitating whether or not he should join the girls. He had always felt more comfortable with them. He knew Mercedes would have his back no matter what but he didn't know how to tell her or any of the girls what happened without revealing what Karofsky did. "Kurt....is everything okay?" Tina asked kindly as Kurt shook his head almost ready to break down in tears. Tina took his hand and brought him into the choir room where Mercedes and Quinn were also. "Kurt....what happened?" Quinn asked seeing the hurt in his eyes. She knew it all too well from what she went through last year. Something was seriously going on with Kurt. "I-I can't say..." Kurt said emotionally. "Kurt, you can talk to us. We're not going to tell anyone," Mercedes said. "Yeah...you guys kept my secret from Finn. I'll always be grateful for that," Quinn said honestly. Kurt sighed "With everything that's gone on with Karofsky I've considered transferring," Kurt admitted as Tina, Quinn, and Mercedes looked shocked. "Transferring?" Tina asked dumbfounded. "To Dalton Academy....I met this guy there who's...like me," Kurt said seriously. "Kurt that's amazing," Mercedes grinned a bit for him as Kurt sighed. "It is but I don't want to betray the Glee Club," Kurt admitted. "You want my advice?" Quinn asked as Kurt nodded "I think that if the others knew what you were thinking they'd try to talk you out of it. I understand exactly where you're coming from. If you guys hadn't been there for me the way you were after...." Quinn began as tears filled her eyes. "We get it Quinn," Mercedes said hugging her friend tightly. "Just know we're here for you Kurt, whatever you need," Tina offered. "Exactly. I know this week has been hard on you Kurt, with Karofsky going off the deep end and boys vs. girls but just because you aren't working with us, doesn't mean we don't have your back," Mercedes said as Quinn nodded. "Thank you," Kurt sighed relieved. Though this wasn't the only secret Kurt had hidden it was the only secret he could tell his friends. Mercedes, Tina, and Quinn all hugged Kurt who felt slightly guilty about not fully coming clean.
The next day at rehearsal Mr. Schue walked in. "Alright, so the ladies started us off for the battle of the bands. Guys, are you ready to perform?" Mr. Schue asked. "No," Sam answered honestly. "Mr. Schue, we haven't had a full rehearsal with all of our members," Mike offered. "Funny now you consider me a member of the team," Kurt muttered under his breath. "Kurt, we've always considered you part of the team," Artie objected as Finn nodded. "Yeah dude our performances wouldn't be the same without you," Finn said. "Maybe so but I thought you all made it very clear that my advice wasn't needed," Kurt said coolly. "So we didn't want to wear your feather boas, big whoop. We're dudes," Puck defended. "But there was no need to make fun of him for it dude. We expect better than that from us in Glee Club," Finn said as the other guys murmured in agreement before Mr. Schue was to speak he was interrupted by Principal Figgins. "William! I need to see you and Noah Puckerman in my office please," Figgins said as Mr. Schue gave Puck a look as they left for Principal Figgins office.
Cut to Principal Figgins' office where they are breaking the news to Puck that he might have to go back to juvie. "This is garbage! I've been doing my community service!" Puck objected. "When you wrote hangin' with a crip on your probation application, we thought you were going to do outreach with the local gang," his probation officer said shaking her head. "But I've totally been helping Artie. I got him a date, I made him some sweet cash. Please, Mr Schue, you gotta help me out here," Puck begged as Mr. Schue turned to his probation officer. "Ms. Martin, there's gotta be some way Puck can make up for this. He's been a model student since he got back," Mr. Schue defended Puck. "Three whole days work? Impressive," Ms. Martin said sarcastically "Look, there are rules. If Mr Puckerman doesn't find a suitable alternative for his community service by tomorrow, his probation will be revoked and he'll have to go back to the Mondale School for the boys." "Oh, screw that, I am not going back there!" Puck said annoyed. "Mr. Puckerman, calm down!" Figgins exclaimed. "No, you calm down! All of you calm down! I've told you, I'm not going back there," Puck fought as Ms. Martin was writing down notes "What are you writing? Gimme that." Puck then grabbed her notes and chucked them. "Puck! This isn't helping," Mr. Schue exclaimed. "Helping? Since when does any one of you care about helping me? None of you care about me!" Puck exclaimed as he stormed out of Principal Figgins' office as Mr. Schue, Ms. Martin, and Principal Figgins shook their heads. Artie watched Puck rush off confused over what had happened as the bell rang.
Cut to the courtyard that afternoon where Blaine had met Kurt to help him. "Thanks again for coming," Kurt said. "Don't worry about it, just let me do the talking," Blaine assured Kurt as Karofsky began to walk by. "There he is," Kurt said nervously. "I got your back," Blaine assured Kurt once again as he stopped Karofsky "Excuse me." "Hey, ladyboys," Karofsky smirked "This your boyfriend, Kurt?" "Kurt and I would like to talk to you about something." Blaine said in a matter of fact manner. "I gotta go to class," Karofsky said brushing him off as he tried to move past them, "Kurt told me what you did," Blaine said as Karofsky turned around. "Oh, yeah? What's that?" Karofsky smirked. "You kissed me," Kurt said as Karofsky's face fell. "I don't know what you're talking about," Karofsky muttered. "It seems like you might be a little confused. And that's totally normal. This is a very hard thing to come to terms with, and you should just know that you're not alone," Blaine said trying to help Karofsky as he then turned around shoving Blaine up against the wall. "Do not mess with me!" Karofsky gritted as Kurt got between them. "You have to stop this!" Kurt exclaimed as Karofsky looked at him and Blaine then decided to leave.
"Well, he's not coming out any time soon," Blaine said sarcastically hoping to get a laugh from Kurt who just looked devastated "What's going on? Why are you so upset?" "Because until yesterday, I had never been kissed," Kurt sighed as Blaine looked at him sympathetically "Or at least, one that counted." "Come on. I'll buy you lunch," Blaine offered as he and Kurt headed out to lunch.
Cut to the gym where the cheerios are rehearsing their newest routine where Brittany is trying to lead them. "5-6-7-8" Brittany called as the cheerios began working on their routine to 'Hey Mickey'. Brittany was completely excelling when it came to leading the girls in the routine but as far as being in charge it's clear that she was definitely lacking that fire that Sue hoped she would have. Quinn seems to be back to being the leader that the other girls are looking to.
Sue got on her megaphone. "Sloppy babies. This was not the improvement I was looking for," she said narrowing her eyes "Head to the locker rooms." The Cheerios then all began to get their things. "Q, can you come here," Sue said as Quinn rushed over. "You've done exceptionally well this time on the cheerios. Reminded me of what I saw in you when I first made you captain," Sue said. "Well I've been working hard, trying to prove my loyalty to you and the cheerios. I know this is where I belong. I'm not going to make the same mistakes I did last year," Quinn explained. "Good....that's why I'm going to make you and Brittany co-captains," Sue said. "Co-captains?" Quinn asked. "Yes as good as sweet, sweet Brittany is she never had the leadership capabilities you had. While she might be the head cheerleader for now, if you keep your loyalty intact, I see good things in your future," Sue said as Quinn beamed. "I won't let you down coach," Quinn assured Sue. "I should hope not. Now get the hell out of my gym," Sue said as Quinn rushed off almost too excited to have the chance to be captain again. With Sam being the school quarterback and her earning her way back to the top she could only hope that this would be the distraction she needed to get back to being a normal teenager.
Cut to the hallway where Puck is packing up at his locker. "I didn't see you in Geometry today," Artie frowned as he approached Puck at his locker. "Jackpot! No you didn't," Puck said slamming his locker shut "I'm getting out of here." Artie looked confused as he wheeled after Puck "I'm skipping town, genius. My probation officer says hanging out with you isn't real community service, so if I don't spend the next six weeks picking up garbage on the highway, they're gonna send me back to juvie," Puck complained. "So? What's wrong with picking up trash?" Artie asked. "Are you serious? It's ghetto, dude! I'm not a garbage man," Puck complained "You know how humiliating that is? I'm not doing it, and I'm not going back to juvie." "Why, I thought you loved it there?" Artie said confused. "Yeah? I lied," Puck said as Artie looked shocked "It's fricking terrifying, dude. On the first day, three gang members jumped me and before the security guards pulled them off, they'd already tore out my nipple ring. I thought I was a badass. There's some hard dudes in there. Guys with no families. Guys who look at you like you're some kind of dog they can't wait to kick the crap out of. And they kept taking my waffles." "So you be my community service," Artie said. "What?" Puck asked shocked. "I owe you. You got me a date with Brittany. And you made me feel cool, which is not the easiest thing to do. I really like hanging out with you, so let me tutor you in Geometry while you pick up garbage by the highway," Artie said as Puck looked surprised "Geometry's easy, yo! There's no excuse for a guy as smart as you not to get at least a B." "I was kind of a jerk to you at Breadstix," Puck admitted. "Whatever. Just pay me back for the pasta," Artie said. "Running out without paying was a stupid idea. If I got caught I'd be screwed," Puck admitted. "You need to start hanging around with someone who's a good on you, Puck," Artie said as Puck really considered what he had to say "Gimme six weeks. If you don't ace your Geometry midterm, I swear I'll buy you all the waffles you can eat." "That's dope, dude. You got a deal," Puck smiled as he and Artie did their handshake.
Cut to Kurt by his locker looking at the photo of Blaine he has now proudly displayed in his locker with the word 'Courage' below it made of different letters from magazines. Karofsky then shoved Kurt into his locker knocking him on the floor as he just walked away. Kurt sat on the floor holding back tears as Karofsky smirked and walked off. Sam walked over and helped Kurt up. "You okay?" Sam asked. "I'll live," Kurt said solemnly. "Look, the guys and I wanted to apologize to you with our performance. Come to the choir room, we have something special planned," Sam smiled as Kurt nodded walking with Sam to the choir room where the guys all walked out wearing the blue suits with a black bow tie that Kurt had chosen for them.
"I don't understand..." Kurt said shocked. "We wanted to apologize to you," Finn said. "Yeah we weren't acting like a team and made you feel unwelcome," Artie added. "After this week I've learned that I can be a bit of a jerk since getting out of juvie. You were just trying to help us give the best performance that we could have and I'm sorry for what I said to you, can you forgive me?" Puck asked as Kurt nodded slowly. "We have your jacket, if you, you know want to perform with us still," Sam smiled. "I'd be honored," Kurt smiled touched by the guys' gesture as they began to sing their mashup of 'Free Your Mind' and 'Stop! In the Name of Love'.
The girls and Mr. Schue cheered for the guys. "Guys, I think you all learned a valuable lesson this week, how to work as a team," Mr. Schue said impressed by the guys success. "So who won the competition?" Mercedes asked. "Well you both went out of your comfort zones with your performances which was what I was hoping to accomplish. You all came together for the mashups which was exactly what I was hoping for so we all won," Mr. Schue said as everyone seemed satisfied with that answer. "Now, let's get back to preparing for Sectionals," Mr. Schue said as everyone went to their seats "From the top."