As per popular request, I have continued the story! I have lots planned for it!
I will be updating WCHHIA in the next few days so be on the look out for a new chapter. I hope you guys like it!
EDIT: I fixed the page breaks; they didn't go in properly the first time I posted it . problem fixed. Should be less confusing!
As you all may have heard... another fandom has lost a great actor and wonderful man...
RIP Paul Walker.
Part One: Chapter Two:
Preparing for Nationals
The New Girl
It was official. The New Directions were going to New York for the Nationals competition. The team had pulled together with original songs and not only defeated the fan favorite Warblers but Sue's Aural Intensity team to take home the first prize trophy. The team was now safe from being taken away from the school. The glee club wasn't any higher on the social ladder at McKinley quite yet, even so, the slushy attacks had ceased. Rachel believed it had a lot to do with Jesse's presence at the school.
As it turned out, Jesse didn't flunk out of college. He had actually lost his place at UCLA due to the fact that the student who was hired by Shelby came forward after Jesse won an award about an essay that depicted why Show Choir was a waste of school funding. He had given Shelby the wrong assignment to be handed in and his teacher had sent it in for consideration. As a result, the school not only expelled the Asian student but revoked all of Jesse's credits for the classes that the student did for him. He was now left to do two years' worth of classes. He decided to settle into McKinley and be a part of their glee club. He also decided, however, to step out of the spotlight most of the time and give someone else a chance to shine. He was just happy to be there with Rachel.
He performed with them at Regionals, however, he remained in the background for the entire length of the performance. It killed him not to push Finn of the stage and do his solos. He reminded himself that he played no role in the composition of the song plus he came so late into the preparations that he felt he didn't deserve a spot. With regionals behind them, the group began to prepare for Nationals.
Mr. Schue had decided that the group needed to work on their dancing skills. This ultimately resulted in Rachel getting her nose broken by Finn, accidentally of course. Jesse was irate by the incident and if it wasn't for Puck and Mike's quick reactions, Finn would have ended up with one of his own.
Three days had passed since the incident and Rachel was standing in front of the Glee club to finally state her plans for a nose job. No one seemed to be thrilled by this, especially Jesse.
"You cannot be serious," Jesse said in disbelief. "Why on Earth would you even consider it? You're absolutely beautiful the way you are now."
Rachel sighed. The whole thing would have been easier with Jesse on her side. "I told you. The doctor said..."
"The doctor is an idiot!" Jesse exclaimed angrily
"Jesse's right," puck agreed. "When I see the girls at the temple after their sixteenth birthdays, they always look different. Sure it's easier to make out with them but they're not hot anymore."
"This isn't about being hot, Noah," Rachel stressed. "It could..."
"I don't want to hear it, Rachel," Jesse snapped standing up. "I won't stand by you and watch you make the biggest mistake of your life and you dated Finn, so that says something.
"You wanna go, man?" Finn said standing up, meeting Jesse's eyes. "I've really had enough of your insults."
Jesse stood up, showing no fear or intimidation of the taller teenager in front of him, "If it wasn't for your utter lack of talent, we wouldn't be in this position and my girlfriend wouldn't be considering getting a bloody nose job!"
"Finn, Jesse," Mr. Schue shouted as Mike and Puck pulled the teens back to their seats, "Sit down, now."
"Let's be honest for a second shall we? This has nothing to do with Rachel's voice and everything to do with Finn and Quinn." Santana said from her usual perch
"Really Rachel?" Jesse exclaimed in disbelief, "I thought we were passed this bullshit. Apparently not."
"Jesse, we need you here, storm into my office if you must." Mr. Schue said receiving a nod from Jesse.
Jesse stomped dramatically into the office, ignoring Rachel's pleas. He slammed the door and threw himself onto the new couch that had just been put into it. He was really furious. This was clearly Rachel's obsession with trying to be Quinn. He had been convinced that Rachel was over Finn. Now he was left second guessing everything. Maybe being at McKinley wasn't a good idea. He would never go back to Carmel but perhaps Dalton was an option. He wasn't entirely surprised when Rachel came into the office.
"I think I made it clear..."
"Jesse... This isn't about just Quinn. She's just the symbol of everything I will never be. Perfect." Rachel said with a defeated tone.
Jesse rolled his eyes and sat up to look at Rachel. He lifted her chin and locked their eyes. "She's Pretty. That's it. You're the most beautiful woman I have ever laid eyes on. You're the perfect one. Last year this would have never bothered you like this. What happened to you?"
Rachel shrugged, shaking her head sadly. "The whole time I was with Finn I felt like I needed to be more like Quinn. That if I wasn't then I'd never keep him. I attempted to embody her in every way."
"Losing yourself in the process?" Jesse asked her softly. "Listen Rach, I love you. Every bit of you. You need to get that fire within again and bring back that piece of you that is the star. Let's start by throwing out this horrid binder alright?"
Rachel smiled with tears in her eyes. "You really think I'm perfect?"
"I'm not worthy of you, Rachel Berry," Jesse said simply, helping Rachel stand. "I never will be. I'm a very lucky man to have you."
Rachel sniffled. "You're sweet."
"Epic romance remember?" Jesse grinned as he kissed her forehead. "Just do me a favor and don't tell anyone I'm sweet alright? Let's just keep it between us."
Rachel laughed and nodded. "All right. I can do that."
Jesse wrapped his arm around her shoulder and guided her out of the office and over to the garbage where she threw the binder into the trash can. Cheers filled the room and the majority of the Glee club ran down to give Rachel a hug. Lauren, Quinn and Santana stayed in their seats. Quinn looked annoyed, Santana looked bored and Lauren looked proud of the small girl. Finn walked over and sighed as he looked at Jesse.
"Thank you, for whatever you said to her." Finn offered Jesse his hand. "I'm glad she found you again. You're obviously good for her."
Jesse gave Finn his famous smile and shook his hand. "Glad you finally figured that out, Hudson. However, maybe this small peace offering is a good thing. We aren't really friends. We never will be."
Finn grinned and nodded back. "Of course. Teammates?"
Jesse pursed his lips together. "Mmm. Professionals. Now if you excuse me, I have a girlfriend to escort to the auditorium. I suggest you do the same."
With that, the boys went to their respective girlfriends and as a group, the members of new direction headed to the auditorium. Upon arrival, they came face to face with a tall, fit teenage girl with brown, red, blue and pink hair. She was standing centre stage, obviously waiting. The glee club was suddenly curious and interested. Rachel was so curious that she didn't notice Jesse tense up as she pulled him to a seat.
"May I help you Miss...?" Mr Schue asked calmly
The girl beamed. She truly was stunning. Her blue eyes were bright like Jesse's and she had all the right curves. She was wearing designer clothing like Jesse, Rachel knew that much. She had an obvious alternative style. She was wearing a pair of right black jeans, a black T-shirt with a skull in the centre. What surprised Rachel was the running shoes on her feet. They were simple and likely chucks.
"Please just call me Ashleigh for now. I would like to audition for New Directions. I am not looking for solos. I just want to dance." The girl replied with a smile. "I know it's late in the season but I'd really like a chance."
"Um... Sure. Let's see what you can do." Mr. Schue said and nodded towards the stage as he sat in a seat beside Rachel and Jesse. He noticed the look on Jesse's face but let it go for now.
"Um.. I know this seems strange but could I borrow Jesse St. James for this?" The young woman asked, obviously slightly uncomfortable.
The entire group looked at Jesse with questions. He simply shrugged and headed to the stage after giving Rachel a kiss. He got up on stage and started talking in hushed whispers to the young girl. Rachel noticed the resemblance between them simply shrugged it off. Sam and Puck appeared to be entrapped by her, as was Finn much to the dislike of Quinn. Without a word, Jesse and Ashleigh got into position and the opening for 'Another one bites the dust' began to play. Ashleigh sang lead while Jesse filled in for her. She was an amazing singer, very easily able to give Rachel and Jesse a run for their money. What truly got the team, however, was how the dance they did was exactly the same as the one Vocal Adrenaline did the year before during their funkification. It was modified of course but they were both flawless. It was clear that Ashleigh had been on stage with them that day. When it ended, the two stood together with smiles on their faces. Jesse hugged the girl then jumped off the stage and headed to Rachel who looked confused beyond belief. Jesse just smirked at her.
"Well Ashleigh, that was remarkable." Me Schue said with a grin
"I knew he was up to no good!" Finn yelled as he jumped from his chair. "She's from vocal adrenaline. They're here to make us look like fools!"
"I was in Vocal Adrenaline, yes," the girl said rolling her eyes at Finn's outburst and folded her arms across her chest. "But no, neither Jesse nor I are spies. I left VA because I was in a situation where I had to move. This is my school district. I'm a legit student here."
"Well, welcome..." Mr. Schue started
"You can't be serious, Mr. S," Mercedes yelled, "How do we know this isn't some trick?"
"Finn, Mercedes, enough," Mr. Schue snapped. "Welcome to the new Directions, Miss Ashleigh.."
Ashleigh made a smirk that Jesse made famous. "St James."
The group, Rachel included, gasped. Rachel turned her head to Jesse and pleaded for answers.
"She's my younger sister," Jesse explained. "I'm impressed, young one."
She jumped off the stage and offered to shake Rachel's hand. "You must be a Rachel Berry, Jesse doesn't shut up about you. And see Jesse? I told you I could get in without name dropping."
"Jesse's your guardian, isn't he?" Sam asked softly
"Yes. We live my aunt and uncle but he's been appointed my guardian by my father," she responded as she let her hair out of the ponytail. "I promise you all I'm not a spy or a spotlight stealer. I like dancing far more than anything. Vocal Adrenaline is best known for their dance routines, right?"
The group nodded in agreement. Jesse put his arm around her shoulder. "She choreographed them. Mix her talent with Brittany's and Mike's and you guys will be unstoppable."
Puck rolled his eyes and approached the girl and extended his hand. "Welcome to the team. Now about we get to work?"
At long last, something everyone could agree on.
As it turned out, New Directions were asked to perform at prom, something everyone was excited for. Everyone spent the day going over options for their performances. It was also clear that Mr. Schue had wanted to focus the club on self-love and acceptance. They were set to perform Born this Way in the auditorium as a way to end the week. When Friday rolled around, everyone piled in with white t-shirts on. Each with a word that describes something they hate about themselves. With Kurt back in the mix, everyone was beyond excited. Ashleigh and Kurt hit it off instantly, which was no real surprise. Rachel and Ashleigh were trying to find a middle ground with one another. Rachel mostly didn't understand relationships between brother and sister and was adjusting to how close they appeared to be.
Jesse, Rachel, Kurt and Ashleigh entered the auditorium together. Ashleigh was on her brothers back, while Rachel held his hand as well as Kurt's. Once in the auditorium the group listened to Mr. Schue's spew about the week and got into place. Rachel stayed on the sidelines and watched due to Drs orders. Jesse and Ashleigh waited for the curtain to open and revealed their shirts as the song progressed. Ashleigh's said bulimic, was seemed to be a bit of a shock to some people while Jesse's said 'Curly Hair'. This made Rachel roll her eyes – she had suggested miva to which he turned down with distain.
Following the performance, Ashleigh heard an argument developing backstage. It was between Quinn and Finn, though Ashleigh couldn't make out what. She just shrugged. From what she saw was that Quinn was quite moody and jealous. Ashleigh figured it probably had to do with Finn congratulating her on her bravery with her shirt.
"Hey Ash," it was Jesse. "Rach and I are heading to the house to watch Funny Girl, want to come?"
Ashleigh closed her locker and groaned. "No thanks. I'd rather shoot myself in the foot. I have my group tonight. I'll be home for dinner tonight. Then we can watch something we all agree on. Or I'll Justus's around on my computer while you torture me."
Jesse laughed softly. "Alright. See you at dinner."
Jesse met Rachel at her locker and frowned, she looked upset. He turned her to face him and without a word, he kissed her passionately. Neither of them cared who was watching. They were lost in their own little imaginative world. When Jesse finally broke the kiss, he gave Rachel a grin.
"What's wrong?" He asked, curiosity in his voice.
"I was thinking about nationals," she admitted. "We should probably do original songs again or a mix. With these new regulations, it's intimidating. Our sets our generally simple so that leaves us a lot of time to perform."
"We will work it out," Jesse said kissing the crown of her head. "Want to brainstorm some ideas tonight? Would that help?"
Rachel smile and nodded. "Yes. Very much so. Thank you."
"Thirty minutes allotted to each team, this includes set up and clean up," Jesse said as he summarized the new rules in front of him. "Groups should display a variety of different styles with at least one ballad."
"And there are now individual awards," Rachel pointed out. "Which I am naturally after. It's a bunch of changes."
"Show choir has grown a lot," Jesse said simply. "It's become the varsity sport of the arts. I for one am happy to see it! Even so it means more seriously untalented groups to suffer through."
"We would want fifteen to twenty minutes of performance, wouldn't we?" Rachel asked again
"That would seem best," Jesse agreed. "One ballad is a must. We need a variety of styles which gives you guys an upper hand. The versatility of New Directions is remarkable. We will need a chance to showcase the best dancers. So maybe some kind of dance or hip hop song. Usher or JT have always been great artists to use. We used them a lot to hone our dancing skills."
Rachel nodded writing down the idea. "That would give Santana, Artie and Mercedes a chance to shine on vocals. We need something rock for Finn and maybe Ashleigh? Even you but your voice is more versatile than Finn's."
Jesse nodded. "Puck can do rock well too. Ashleigh would be the unexpected part for any rock. Girl can go from Barbra to Pat in seconds."
Rachel just grinned. "Something inspirational. Judges love that."
"Original song," Jesse pointed out. "Pull out something like losers and you're golden."
Rachel nodded, she was excited about nationals. Maybe this year they could pull it off. Their team was exceptionally talented. There was certainly no denying that. Vocally they were the best now that Jesse was with them however their dances lacked a lot. Hopefully now with Ashleigh at the helm, they'll could change that.
"Is Ashleigh a good dance teacher?" Rachel asked quietly
"Yeah, amazing." He replied. "She's one of the best. Think Finn could use the help?"
"Considering my broken nose, yes," Rachel laughed. "I think even I could use some pointers. She made you look like an amateur. That's a difficult thing to do."
Jesse smiled slightly. "I have an idea to help figure out songs for nationals and really dive into the diversity?"
-GLEE!-
"Alright guys, this week we are going to have a little competition." Mr. Schue said as he walked into the room. The group seemed excited by this idea. "I am going to pair everyone up. You and your partner will work on not only a song of your choice for nationals but a dance routine as well. The winner will be selected by myself, Miss Beiste and Miss Pillsbury."
The group members nodded. "Rachel and Jesse."
"Figures," Quinn said rolling her eyes
"Tina and Mike. Mercedes and Kurt. Puck and Santana. Ashleigh and Finn..."
"What?! Mr. Schue I really don't think this is fair!" Quinn shouted angrily. "Man hands and Asian number one get to be with their boyfriends but I don't?!"
"Quinn, sit down," Mr. Schue snapped. "Ashleigh is one of our best dancers. She could really teach Finn a lot."
"I agree with Mr. S," Finn said quickly. "The better dancer I am the better it'll be for everyone. It's only one assignment Quinn."
Quinn groaned in frustration and sat in her chair. "Fine. Who am I with?"
"Sam," Mr. Schue replied. "That leaves Brittany with Artie."
"I opted out," Lauren said quickly. "I will help with the judging. Odd numbers. It's best this way."
"Lauren is right," he agreed. "Rules are simple. Keep it PG and that's it. The Sky is the limit. Wait. There is one simple rule. No ballads."
Jesse and Rachel nearly fainted at this. Ballads were their specialty and would be their claim to fame in this assignment.
"We have our ballad, an original song at that," Mr. Schue said with a smile. "Finn wrote a beautiful song called 'Pretending'. He and I are working out the music and once that's done we will show you guys. It really is quite remarkable. It's a beautiful ballad about loving someone and not wanting to pretend that those feelings don't exist anymore..."
Quinn smiled proudly at her boyfriend. "I request to sing this with him."
"Rachel is," Mr. Schue said quickly
"With Jesse?" Quinn asked confused. "That's not fair to Finn considering it's not..."
"I will be singing it with Rachel," Finn whispered knowing what was about to happen
"What?!" Quinn yelled. "Why would you write a song about us and sing it with her?!"
"Probably because it's not about you and Finn," Jesse said with a smirk. "It's probably about Rachel."
Quinn's eyes burned with rage as she turned to her boyfriend. "Is this true?"
Finn sighed and nodded reluctantly. "Yes, it is."
Quinn slapped Finn in the face and stormed out of the room with Sam behind her. Finn looked guilty while everyone else had mixed reactions. Rachel felt bad for Finn, as did Ashleigh. Jesse seemed happy simply because it was a chance for Rachel to shine. The rest just looked torn.
Groups quickly formed to begin work on the assignment. Finn walked over to Ashleigh completely intimidated by her. She was sitting in her chair in the corner listening to music when he came over. She looked up and smiled at him. She could scarcely conceal her attraction to him. It was no mystery why so many young women wanted him. She was glad she was getting to work with him.
"So hey," Finn said nervously. "Do you just want to pick something or what?"
Ashleigh smiled, "how about we come up with something together?"
Finn looked confused and almost shocked. "Really?"
She just laughed and nodded. "Yes really. I'm not a control freak like those two over there. Nor am I a perfectionist. I am however a tough instructor. But work hard and I promise you'll blow everyone away with your dance moves."
This time Finn smiled at her. "Really? That's so awesome! Well alright. What ideas do you have?"
The two of them spent the remainder of the rehearsal going over their ideas. It was heavily focused in rock which wasn't necessarily a bad thing. However, Ashleigh's mind was taking a different direction.
"They're expecting us to do rock," Ashleigh said. "That's also your comfort zone. Let's step outside of that. How about we meet up at your place after my floor hockey game, unless you want to come watch?"
Finn's eyes lit up. "You play floor hockey? That's freaking awesome. League?"
Ashleigh laughed at his enthusiasm. "No. Pick up. If you have some gear you can join in. Ten dollars buy in."
"I am SO in," he exclaimed as the bell rang. He followed Ashleigh towards their lockers. "Let me grab my stuff at home. Meet me there in say twenty or so? We can get some food and hear your ideas after the game?"
Ashleigh smiled flirtatiously at Finn and nodded. "I will see you in twenty. Quinn is coming over here and she doesn't look thrilled. Good luck."
Finn sighed and nodded at Ashleigh and watched carefully as she left. He really believed she was gorgeous. She wasn't a typical beautiful like Quinn or exotic like Rachel. She was model or actress pretty with curves he had never appreciated before. He was fascinated with her eyes, soft and inviting. He was brought back to reality when he heard Quinn behind him. He was not in the mood nor did he have the time.
"Why did she just say she will you say in twenty?" Quinn snapped with her arms folded across her chest
Finn rolled his eyes. "I am going to a pick up floor hockey game with her than we are going to work in the assignment."
Quinn looked at him like he had grown a second head. "So you have a date with her?"
"What?! No!" Finn said as he took a book out of his locker. "She invited me to take on a sport I enjoy and she's my partner for the glee assignment. Don't be like this Quinn."
"Be like what? First you write a song about Rachel and now you're going on a date with Ashleigh?" Quinn screeched. "If you go, you and I are done. You are coming to my place and we can make out."
"Quinn you're being ridiculous. I love you," Finn started, turning to his girlfriend. "Ashleigh is new around here and frankly, not many chicks in sports are into guys."
"Do you think she's hot?" Quinn sniffles, holding back tears.
"She's beautiful, sure but..." He started
"Beautiful? You always referred to me as hot to Rachel or your friends..." Quinn was now visibly upset but she took a deep breath. "All right. I get it now. Let's go to my house and we can have sex."
Finn raised an eyebrow as he looked at her. "As tempting as that is I can't Quinn. It isn't about the sex. You need to trust me."
"I'm serious Finn... Do not go with her." She sneered through tears
Finn closed his locker and kissed her cheek. "I'll pick you up from school in the morning, alright?"
Quinn slapped him hard across the cheek. Again. "We are done, Finn Hudson."
Finn's jaw dropped. "What? Why?! Because I want to go do something I enjoy? I've spent every night we have been back together with you. I need some me time to simply relax. Now you're leaving me because of it? That's just swell Quinn. I'm done."
With that Finn walked away. Jesse and Rachel looked out from behind the chaos.
"Poor Finn," Rachel whispered, leaning against Jesse's locker. "He's a good guy. He doesn't deserve that."
Jesse raised a brow inquisitively. "Maybe. I don't like the way Ashleigh looks at him though. I may have to draw lines with him."
Rachel smacked Jesse's chest. "No you won't. Just leave her be. Finn won't do anything stupid, right? You made mistakes too."
Jesse frowned at her. "That's my baby sister."
Rachel kissed him passionately. "Yes it is. She's a big girl now. She can make her own choices."
"I hate it when you're right," Jesse mumbled as he kissed her again, "Ideas for songs? I need my mind off the thought of my sister liking Finn."
Rachel laughed and held his hand as they headed to the auditorium, "You know, it could be much worse. She could like Jacob…"
"I would lock her away in a nunnery." He said gravely as he held open the door to the auditorium. "I was thinking about our talk in Glee Club earlier… I think show tunes are something they are expecting. We need to do something they don't expect. I have an idea, I want to know what you think."
Rachel smiled and looked at him with wonder, "What were you thinking?"
Jesse jumped onto the stage, "I would have to ask Mr. Schue if we can group up. I can't pull off what I want to do but Ashleigh could. We would require all four of our voices as well."
"Well, what's your idea, Jesse?" Mr. Schue asked walking out from backstage with a stack of papers.
"It's a mashup of epic proportions." Jesse said with a slight smirk. "If we pull it off, we would win Nationals, guaranteed."
"Pass the fucking puck!" Ashleigh shouted at one of the guys
Ashleigh passed the ball and was oblivious to the guy charging at her as she passed it to Finn who scored effortlessly. The guy slammed into Ashleigh, sending her into the ground, hard. Finn had little time to celebrate as he heard the commotion. Without a word, he speared into the guy and punched him.
"What the fuck is your deal man," Finn shouted as he was pulled off the mid-twenties guy. "You know this is no contact."
The guy stood up with a smirk, holding his jaw. He shook his head at Ashleigh and began to walk out of the playing area. "Slut had it coming."
Finn considered going after him, fury burning within him, however, he knew it was probably best that he didn't, considering Nationals were so close. He pulled away from the guys standing guard on him and rushed to Ashleigh's side. She was holding onto her right knee, cursing up a storm.
"Are you alright?" Finn asked, brushing some hair from her face, "Your knee… do you need to go to the hospital?"
Ashleigh nodded painfully, "Yes, please. I can't move it."
"I can call an ambulance…" Finn said quickly, moving to get up
"No!" Ashleigh exclaimed, "We can take my car. Nathan, can you help him?"
"Yeah, of course," Nathan said as he approached Ashleigh
"If you can grab our stuff, I will carry her," Finn said picking Ashleigh up bridal style. Nathan nodded and grabbed their bags and sticks. "You're going to be alright, I promise. I am so sorry I didn't see that guy."
She shook her head, "Don't be. He will get what's coming to him though. Andrew is an ex of mine. He's not even supposed to be here."
Finn nodded, half understanding. "Bad breakup?"
Ashleigh nodded, "Very. I'll call the police from the car. I have a restraining order out against him. He's the reason I am in Lima."
Finn froze and stared at the young woman in his arms. "Do I have to rip him apart?"
"No, cave man," Ashleigh laughed. "Jesse might though. Heck, I suppose he'd even let you help. I usually prefer to have the cops deal with it. He didn't merely come near me, he attacked me. He's in trouble and a lot of it."
Finn hesitated moving as Nathan nudged him towards the car, "Finn, this is Nathan. He's my gay boyfriend. Nathan this is Finn…"
"Your new boyfriend?" Nathan asked with a grin as he threw the suitcases into the trunk of the range rover.
Upon hearing that, Finn smashed his head off the top of the door in surprise, making Ashleigh burst out laughing. "Careful would you? I think one of us in the hospital is enough for the night."
Finn actually blushed. "Can you get your seat…"
"Yes, I can do my seatbelt," Ashleigh said slightly annoyed and turned toward Nathan who was leaning against the open door. "No, he's not my boyfriend. He's a team mate… Glee club, remember?"
"Oh!" Nathan cried out, watching Finn climb into the driver's seat. "Mr. Gorgeous with the bitchy blonde ex-cheerleading girlfriend."
Ashleigh turned three or four shades of red, "I never said that…"
"Ex-girlfriend," Finn whispered, starting the car with a smile, "Are you coming with us, Nathan?"
"I'll follow behind," he replied, closing Ashleigh's door. Ashleigh opened the window and let Nathan give her a kiss on the cheek. "See you there Mr. Gorgeous with the bitchy ex-cheerleading ex-girlfriend!"
Finn smirked and watched in the rear-view mirror as Nathan headed to his car. Ashleigh slipped on Finn's hoodie that had been in the back seat, since she was only wearing a pair of short shorts and a T-shirt and it was still a little cool at night in Ohio, and pulled the hood over her head, trying desperately to hide in the shirt. With Nathan in his car, Finn pulled out of the parking spot and worked his way out of the parking lot.
"So, you think I'm gorgeous, huh?"
Jesse ran into the hospital with a panic, Rachel follows behind. He looked around frantically until he saw two police officers standing outside of one of the emergency treatment rooms. He ran to the room and showed his license to the police officers before sliding into the room where Ashleigh was sitting on a bed with her knee in a brace, crutches at her side as she talked to the doctor. Finn was standing to the side of Ashleigh with his arm on her shoulder, expressing support for the position. Jesse immediately pushed Finn and got into his face as best he could despite the height difference.
"I leave her with you for a night and you let that bastard near her?!" Jesse shouted, only to be pulled away lightly from Rachel
Ashleigh rolled her eyes, "He didn't know, Jesse. I never told him about Andrew and before you try to rip his head off you should thank you for knocking Andrew to his sorry ass. If it wasn't for Nathan and Mike, he probably would have beat him to a pulp."
Jesse looked at his sister then to Finn and nearly pouted, "Very well."
"Jesse…" Rachel said with a slightly harsh tone
Jesse sighed and rolled his eyes dramatically. "Thank you, for helping my sister. I don't have to thrash you… yet."
"Dr. Nadel," Ashleigh said obviously annoyed, "This is Jesse St. James, my older and seriously over protective older brother and his girlfriend Rachel Berry. Jesse, Rachel, this is Dr. Nadel, the on staff sports doctor."
"In situations such as these, it is not always a bad thing to throw an over protective brother," Dr. Nadel said shaking Jesse's hand. "She is going to be alright. She has to stay off it completely for a day and then she can use the crutches as little or as much as she needs."
"We have our National Show Choir competition in eight weeks, will I be okay to dance for it?" Ashleigh asked, her voice trembling
The doctor smiled, "Of course. I suspect you'll be on your feet completely in a few days to a week. It's a minor sprain. You're very lucky indeed. Good luck with your competition and take those painkillers if you need it."
The doctor left the room, leaving the four of them alone. Jesse immediately wrapped his arms around his sister as Finn stepped to the side. Rachel looked up at Finn and gave him an appreciative look, which Finn smiled at in response.
"What did the police say?" Jesse asked, sitting beside his sister on the bed.
"He is being charged for breaking the restraining order and assault," Ashleigh replied simply. "He was being picked up tonight. He is probably also getting in shit for breaking parole."
"He'll go away for a long time," Jesse said simply. "I hope."
"His dad being a judge never helps," Ashleigh sounded defeated. "I just want him to stay away from me."
"I know," Jesse whispered, "Finn, Puck, Mike and I will make sure he comes nowhere near you anymore, alright?"
She nodded, "Yeah, can we go home now?"
Jesse smiled and kissed her forehead, "Of course we can. Finn, would you mind…"
"Of course not," Finn smiled, "Do I need to carry you again?"
Ashleigh laughed, "No, I think I am alright to use these stupid things. Wouldn't be the first time."
The four of them made their way outside in a comfortable silence. When they made the cars, Jesse helped his sister inside the vehicle. Once she was inside, he leaned against the open window and ruffled her hair.
"I need you to do something," Jesse said getting into the show choir mode. "Mr. Schue is allowing the four of us to work together on the assignment. I have an idea that is absolutely brilliant but it's going to take your magic of mashing. I can handle simple mashups, but not this. Interested?"
"Would it win Nationals?" Finn asked, raising an eyebrow
"Guarantee it," Jesse said with his patent smirk. "If we pull this off this will blow even my flawless and legendary Bohemian out of the water."
"What do you need me to do?"
"Ashleigh, this is brilliant," Rachel said sitting on Ashleigh's king sized bed listening to the song Ashleigh had created. "I had no idea you could do anything like this."
Ashleigh blushed, "It's a hobby really."
"What is your plan after high school?" Rachel asked, curiosity in her voice. "You would make an incredible DJ."
"Oh god no," Ashleigh laughed as she took a sip of her water, seemingly focused on something in the distance. "I want to just coach Glee clubs, honestly. I love the creative aspect of it. Stardom isn't my thing. I will leave that with Jesse."
Finn studied her carefully, lost deep in thought. He admired what she had created. She was talented and knew whatever club she met with her talent would be destined for greatness. He rose and made his way over to where Ashleigh was sitting on her couch and sat down with her, resting his hand on the back of the couch.
"This really is amazing," he concurred. "There's no way the Glee club won't eat this up. But aren't we supposed to do a dance to this?"
Ashleigh beamed, "You have a lot to learn about dance, Frankenteen."
"Even a slow song can make a massive impact with the right moves," Jesse explained. "If anyone can pull it off it's that young lady beside you."
She looked up at her brother and smiled. "I would like to start if you don't mind, considering we don't have much time."
Concern spread across Finn's face, "Is that such a good idea? I know you're okay to be off your crutches but… dancing?"
"I'll go slow and simple," Ashleigh said, "Now help me up. You can be my support."
Finn looked over at Jesse who nodded. Finn helped her up and she walked to the centre of the room and leaned against Finn. Jesse started the music over and stood in front of her, awaiting instruction. Rachel and Finn watched the siblings, intrigued at how they communicated with one another.
"I want this done in two different ways, I want a group choreography which will be done by the solid dancers in the group… Mike, Brittany, Santana, Puck even Quinn if she can manage it." She said simply, "The rest will be done by us. We will record the group choreography and play it on the large screen in the auditorium when we perform this part live. The group dance will be too difficult to do when we're singing. Restart it."
Rachel walked over to the computer and restarted the song. She wrapped her arm around Jesse's neck and placed his hand on her waist and began to direct him. It was obvious that the singer's component was very close with a romantic aspect to it – even if it was a heart breaking one.
The group persisted in their rehearsal extensively over the next few days. They claimed the last performance due to the complexity of it. Finn spent the week helping Ashleigh with her classes and the two developed a really good friendship, something Quinn wasn't taking well at all even though she had little problem flirting and throwing herself at Sam throughout the week whenever she got the opportunity. The Glee groups each took their turns displaying their songs and routines. Mercedes's and Kurt predictably did a Beyoncé song. Puck and Santana impressed everyone with a Jazz/rock routine. Brittany and Artie made a creative stab at Nelly's Ride with me and Just a Dream mashup. Quinn and Sam performed an over sexualized version of "Right Round" by Flo-Rida. Everyone was shocked and pretty much speechless. Mr. Schue on the other hand looked furious.
"Quinn, Sam – What on Earth was that?" Mr. Schue yelled, "That kind of behaviour at Nationals would have us disqualified. Whose idea was it?"
Sam pointed at Quinn with no hesitation, "Quinn, Mr. S. She thought we needed to be daring."
"Da… daring?!" Mr. Schue yelled in disbelief. "There was nothing daring about that. It is vile filth. Quinn, does this have to do with Nationals or with Finn?"
Quinn looked slightly hurt at his name but shook it off and smiled, "There's nothing wrong with flaunting what you have Mr. S. I'm sure Santana and Brittany could agree with me."
"While I agree with flaunting it," Santana stated, "parading around like a stripper practically humping trouty mouth is not something I would do for Nationals."
"Santana is right," Jesse agreed. "Sexuality is a beautiful thing but this is for Nationals. You want to win than this is not how to do it. The judges would see it as completely inappropriate and vulgar. That would be like kissing someone on stage in the heat of the moment during a competition!"
"Quinn, I am disappointed in you, sit down. I will be talking to you after practice," Mr. Schue snapped. "If it wasn't so close to National's, I would suspend you. The rest of you are dismissed. Finn, Rachel, Jesse and Ashleigh go tomorrow, I can't wait to see what you guys come up with."
The group quickly dispersed. Jesse and Rachel walked hand in hand out of the choir room while Ashleigh sat in her chair, in obvious agony. Finn was at the doorway when he noticed Ashleigh wasn't with him. He turned around and saw Ashleigh in her chair and ran over to her, ignoring the looks from Quinn that he was getting.
"Need some help there, Ash?" Finn asked gently, crouching in front of her. "You've been pushing yourself too hard."
Ashleigh laughed painfully, "It's worth it. I just need to get through tomorrow and then I can take it easy for the weekend."
"Bad movies and video games," Finn said as he helped Ashleigh stand up and wrapped his arm around her waist to help her walk; she was limping really badly. "It's going to be an amazing weekend!"
Ashleigh laughed, "Yeah, no doubt. I'm super stoked. I am going to kick your butt in zombie modes."
Finn opened Ashleigh's locker and shook his head, "No way. I will so own you."
"Talking about zombies again?" Jesse asked from behind Ashleigh, "I swear you have some sort of sick fascination with them. Admit it, you just want Norman Reedus to come and rescue you."
"I will neither confirm nor deny that," Ashleigh laughed as she put a book in her locker and took another one out. "You guys ready for our last rehersal?"
"Actually," Jesse said looking at Rachel with a mischievous grin. "We have it perfected. Even Frankenteen is looking semi human when he dances. I was thinking…"
"Actually, I was," Rachel said, shooting Jesse a look, "I was thinking that to celebrate the awesome work we have all done this week we should go out and have a good time tonight. Maybe grab some food or get a movie or something."
Ashleigh groaned loudly. "And spend more time with the miva? Do I have to?"
"I'm offended!" Jesse said dramatically, "Then just dinner. You have to eat. What you do afterwards is entirely up to you."
Ashleigh sighed and looked at Finn, "Will you be joining in this torture fest? Please don't leave me on my own with these two. They might try and force me into a flash broadway performance."
Finn laughed and walked with the three of them out of the school, "I don't know, I think you'd be pretty awesome at it."
Ashleigh pretended to faint dramatically into her brother's arms, "Oh no. I've caught the plague. I must go home and wither away in peace."
The group laughed and Finn gave Jesse a look before picking Ashleigh up and throwing her over his shoulder. Ashleigh screamed and tried wiggling her way out but quickly realized it was mute point. Ashleigh had never been more thankful that she hated wearing skirts than at that moment. The foursome found their way to the two range rovers and each climbed into their respective ones. Finn had been driving Ashleigh's the past week since she wasn't feeling up to it yet and the rover was far more comfortable than the truck while Rachel and Jesse took Jesse's rover. Immediately after getting into the car, Rachel and Jesse began to play various show tunes to sing along to while Finn simply put on the local rock channel and the two sat in silence.
"Do you think she's suspicious?" Rachel asked as the first song came to an end
"Naw," Jesse said with a grin. "They have plans this weekend. Something about video games and movies or something."
Rachel laughed, "She really is a lot like him, isn't she?"
"Only she can dance better," he teased, "She likes him and he has been a big help to her this week. Frankly though, I am going to be so happy when it's just you and I again. I miss our alone time. This weekend will be a blast though."
Rachel beamed, "Oh yes it will be! My dads are out of town so we can take over the living room and watch every musical we own and maybe even go see a show at that cute Akron theatre you're always telling me about."
"That could be fun. Do your dads know I'll be there?"
Rachel scrunched her face, "I haven't had that talk with them yet. They know you're back and they know that you're in New Directions. I think they know considering I've been talking non stop about rehearsals and how cute Ashleigh and Finn are… but we haven't had the official 'I'm dating Jesse again' conversation."
"Don't you think you should?"
"Yeah, I know," Rachel sighed and leaned over to kiss him as they stopped at a red light. "I'll talk to them tonight, sound good?"
Jesse nodded with a grin, feeling accomplished. "Yes. Perhaps we should invite them to dinner with us?"
Rachel shook her head, "I don't want to make things awkward for Finn and Ashleigh although my dads would love your sister. Where are we going anyway?"
"This incredible Chinese food place I know of," Jesse replied turning onto a side street, "we, however, have to stop at the St. James manor for a bit. It's still a tad early for dinner. It'll give us a chance to just hang out and relax alone for a bit."
Rachel nodded, "I'd love that. Think the two of them will find something to do?"
"Zombies."
"Finally!" Rachel said, throwing herself on Jesse's bed, smiling as her face buried into the soft fabric. "We get to be alone for a while."
Jesse laid down beside her and kissed her passionately. The kiss was heated and it was full of wanting and longing. It had been far too long since they had the chance to lose themselves in each other like this. Jesse has gently positioned himself over Rachel's upper half and continued his assault. Rachel pushed him away and scooted up to the pillow then pulled Jesse down with her. The mood changed quickly. The two of them laid side by side, sharing light kisses full of love and soft touches. This was the epic romance Rachel had always envisioned. It was gentle and romantic yet sensual and erotic at the same time. Rachel was still a virgin, even so, she knew deep down it wouldn't be the case for much longer. She had always hesitated and was nervous when the thought of intimacy with Finn but with Jesse it just seemed natural.
"Jesse?" Rachel asked softly, her voice almost a whisper
"What is it, my love?" Jesse whispered back, kissing her forehead. "Is everything alright?"
"Do you ever think about… doing it with me?"
Jesse chuckled and brushed some hair out of Rachel's face, "Of course I have but I know you're not ready. I also know that when you are you will let me know. Until then, this is all I ask. I was an ass to you before about sex. I used to think sex was just something you do for fun but you've helped me realize it's a good deal more than that. Sure, I've had sex more times than I would like to admit but do you know what?"
"What?"
Jesse looked at Rachel in the eyes and held her hand to his heart, "I've never made love to anyone. I've never opened my love up like that for anyone else. That will be for you and for you alone. You will be the first to have me in that way and I know you'll be the last."
Rachel's eyes lit up, "You really think we will be together forever?"
Jesse shook his head, "I don't think so. I know we will. You complete me, Rachel. When I didn't have you… I felt like my world didn't make sense. I still had my music and performing but I was missing something."
"What were you missing?" Rachel asked quietly, looking up at him
"My other half, my twin flame, the only other person in this world who is a bigger drama queen than me…" Jesse gave her an Eskimo kiss then leaned his head against hers as he lifted her hand to his heart and locked eyes with her. "I was missing you."
Tears pooled in Rachel's eyes, "I love you, Jesse St. James."
Jesse kissed her tenderly, "I love you too, Rachel Berry."
There ya have it. The next chapter is going to be awesome! I hope you all liked it! Ashleigh, in this story, would be portrayed by Jennifer Lawrence.