Chapter 4: Baby, You're a Firework!

Everyone was staring at the two students that just walked in. They were excited about getting more recruits this year.

After listening to a jazz version of Big Spender from Ellis and Gives you Hell by Matheus, they were quickly assigned as apprentices to Kurt and Puck. And everyone continued to practice their song numbers.

Homecoming assembly

The day finally came where the New Directions new members were performing in front of the whole school body.

"I can't do this, I can't sing in front of the whole school." Rose fretted, "I'm going to stay out of the performance."

"Wait," Serenity hated seeing her friend so nervous, "Aaron and I got you a good luck charm the other day." And with that, Aaron gave Rose a small box. Inside was a beautiful necklace with a jeweled rose charm.

"I don't understand. Why did you guys do this for me? I-"

"Because we're a family." Said Marissa, suddenly everyone was starting to form a group hug.

"And families always stick together." Cameron said, finishing Marissa's sentence.

"Why should you be nervous?" asked Damian, "You're one of the best singers I've ever heard, but there's more than that."

"He's right, you should never lose self-esteem." Matheus added, "I'm one of the shortest people at school, but I don't lose my confidence."

Mr. Schuester smiled as he watched the new generation comfort one another. They were already becoming a family.

"Alright guys, this is the moment to show the school that we are more than what they see. Now I want every one of you has worked hard on this number. You should all be proud of yourselves. Now go out there and have fun."

"Yes Mr. Schue." Chimed the New Directions

"And now, coming from twelfth place in Nationals is McKinley High's New Directions."

The audience clapped politely as Principal Figgins walked toward the bleachers.

Music began to fill the air as the stage curtains opened, revealing eleven smiling teenagers.

Marissa started her solo with a bang.

Do you ever feel like a plastic bag, drifting through the

Wind, wanting to start again?

Serenity's voice was full of optimism as she sang her verse

Do you ever feel, feel so paper thin?

Like a house of cards, one blow from caving in?

With her stage fright forgotten, Rose sang her heart out; however, she was able to catch the jealous look Rachel was giving her.

Do you ever feel already buried deep?

6 feet under screams but no one seems to hear a thing

With his baritone voice and Irish accent, Damian was able to charm a number of girls. When he winked, they all squealed.

Do you know that there's still a chance for you

'Cause there's a spark in you

Hannah happily started her verse.

You just gotta ignite, the light, and let it shine

Soon Cameron joined in.

Just own the night like the 4th of July

To add to Rachel's jealousy, Lindsay belted out her solo with an amazing voice.

'Cause baby you're a firework

Come on, show 'em what you're worth

Then, Rose and Serenity's voices merged with hers.

Make 'em go "Oh, oh, oh"

As you shoot across the sky-y-y

With her child-like looks, Ellis surprised the audience with her sophisticated singing.

Baby you're a firework

Come on, let your colors burst

Her friend, Matheus, jumped right next to her with his solo.

Make 'em go "Oh, oh, oh"

You're gonna leave 'em going down-own-own

Convinced that flirting was her talent, Emily performed her signature hair flip as she sang.

Boom, boom, boom

Even brighter than the moon, moon, moon

With a confident smile, Aaron really showed off his voice.

It's always been inside of you, you, you

And now it's time to let it through-ough-ough

Then, everyone sang together. Like a family, everyone worked together, their voices merging as one.

Baby you're a firework

Come on, show 'em what you're worth

Make 'em go "Oh, oh, oh"

As you shoot across the sky-y-y

Baby you're a firework

Come on, let your colors burst

Make 'em go "Oh, oh, oh"

You're gonna leave 'em going down-own-own

Boom, boom, boom

Even brighter than the moon, moon, moon

Boom, boom, boom

Even brighter than the moon, moon, moon

There were some students who were enjoying the song. Others were trying to hide the fact that they thought show choir was cool. Either way, the song was a huge success. Mr. Schuester was proud of his kids and the mentors were proud of their protégés. Little did they know, someone else had an eye for some of the star singers.

Dear Journal,

I can't believe that Will Schuester and his messy clump of twigs known as his hair have actually gained new members for that dreaded Glee club. But in little does he know that in the process, I've attained an eye for three new possible stars for my Cheerio squad. With these new girls and their singing, we'll take that Nationals trophy for sure.

The day after the homecoming assembly

Serenity and Rose (who managed to get lockers next to each other), had just opened their lockers. Out tumbled two red and white Cheerio uniforms.

Lindsay (who's locker was right across from theirs), received one as well.

The three girls gave each other incredulous looks.

Out of nowhere, Sue Sylvester materialized right next to them.

"Well ladies, I would like to congratulate you onto getting into my Cheerios squad. After you change into your uniforms, head to my office immediately. I have some sneakers that complement the outfit and I need to see how well you can perform as a cheerleader. Congratulations."

And with the few sentences she said, Coach Sylvester left them in shock.