I'm back! Ok as always, I do not own any of Glee/Disney. All mistakes are my own. Enjoy.
Back in Lima
Santana POV
Welcome to Lima
The plane continues its descent as I wake up from my nap. I'm beginning to regret booking a 6 am flight. I lift my head and notice Dani stirring on my shoulder. Rachel and Kurt are sitting in front of us, both seeming to wake up as well. It's not like it was a long flight, it was just too damn early. I can't believe we are going to be back in Lima. It's only Sunday, so we have the whole week to relax before heading back to the city. Mr. Schue called together a New Directions meeting for Tuesday afternoon with a party following in the evening. Whoever isn't in Lima already is flying in mostly today. Mercedes is flying in with Sam and Artie from LA this afternoon, Quinn and Brittany later this morning. Last I heard, Puck and the Changs are already in Lima. The plane touches down and it takes me by surprise. I glance at my phone 7:55. The flight was a little less than 2 hours. I also notice a text from Puck.
Sup Lezpez. Text me when you guys get your luggage, I'm in the parking lot. I'll pull up when you're ready. Hope you joined the mile high club ;)
I roll my eyes responding to the text that we just landed. As soon as the plane pulls up to the gate, I jump up and grab my guitar case from the overhead compartment as Dani and the Broadway twins grab their belongings. We make our way through the airport and I can't help but feel a pull on my heartstring. The last time I was here was before Brit left for MIT. I take a deep breath preparing myself for facing Lima again. There are going to be reminders everywhere, especially back at McKinley. I text Puck when we grab our luggage and make our way to the curb. Next thing I know, a black pickup truck pulls up with Bon Jovi blasting from inside.
"What's up nerds? My hot Jewish princess, Lady Face, Lesbro, and who might you be gorgeous?" Puck takes Dani's hand goes to kiss it when I step in front of knock him across the head.
"Shut it, Puckerman. This is Dani, my girlfriend," I say as I take hold of her hand. Dani smiles and kisses my cheek and Puck backs away with hands up in defense.
"Ow! Alright, alright sorry! Damn girl. I didn't think you could get such a hot chicka is all," he says as he climbs into the truck.
The rest of us climb in the back with Rachel in shotgun. I reply smirking, "Hey, I scored Brit, didn't I?"
"Yea, but she's special," he retorts with a wink.
"Watch it, Puckerman." I feel Snix rising from within. I know I shouldn't be getting this defensive since I know he's only messing with me. Dani gives me a strange look. This is going to be a long week.
"Oh just like old times. How about we grab some food and relax until everyone else gets in town?" suggests Kurt.
"Actually," Rachel starts, "How about we get some rest and then grab lunch with Quinn. Their flight lands around 11:30 I believe."
I glance at her, "Sounds like a plan. Who is picking them up?" Everyone starts sharing looks. I could always pick them up in my car, but Dani wouldn't be too happy and I'm a little scared to see Brit again.
Dani turns to me, "Santana, you have your car here right? Why don't we pick them up?"
"Um yea my car is here. But it'll be a tight squeeze with the 5 of us in the car. But yea I guess we can pick them up. I'll just text Quinn and let her know." I pull out my phone to send the message when I see a notification. It's a text from Brittany.
Hey Santana! We are boarding our plane to head to Lima now. I can't wait to see you! I actually wanted to hang out with you, like old times, just the two of us. Well not exactly like old times; there'd be no sweet lady kisses, at least not between us. Jasmine is spending time with my parents tomorrow night as a bonding thing. I know Dani is with you, but maybe she can hang out with Rachel and them. Let me know. I'll see you in a bit!
I smile at the message. I can't believe it's been a year since I've seen her. I send the text to Quinn, but say nothing to Brit. It'll be a surprise, plus I want Dani to meet Brit before I tell her that she's stuck with Yentl tomorrow. The ride back to town is uneventful. We keep up with small talk. Puck talks about the cougar he's banging and how Jake is doing at college. Dani and I are dropped off at my house first. I notice both my parents' cars in the driveway as we make our way to the front door. I pull out my keys to unlock the door when Dani stops me for a second.
"Santana, should I be scared of your parents?"
"No, not at all. They'll love you." The mention of the l-word caught both of us off guard. I go back to opening the door and step inside.
"Mami, Papi. We're here." I yell out. I hear rustling from the kitchen and see my parents emerge.
"Santana! We've missed you! And this must be Dani," Papi says as he hugs me and goes to hug Dani as well. She's surprised at first but hesitantly returns the hug.
"Yes, sir. It's nice to meet you."
"None of this sir crap. You can call me Mario. And this is my lovely wife, Maribel."
"Oh it's so nice to meet you, Dani. I've heard you kept our Santana out of trouble, so you have our thanks."
"Mami!"
"Oh hush Santana, you know it's true. Would you girls like some breakfast?"
"We'll have something small, and then we are taking a short nap. We are picking up Quinn and Brittany from the airport around 11:30."
"Oh Brittany's also coming home?"
"Yea. And she's bringing her fiancée, Jasmine. I'm going to be Brit's maid of honor, so we want to get some wedding stuff out of the way seeing as we won't see each other much."
The look on my parents' faces is one that resembles Kurt, Rachel, and Quinn's when I told them the news. Is there going to be anyone in this town that won't give me that look?
After a small breakfast consisting of bagels and bacon with a bit of small talk, Dani and I head up to my room to get a few hours of sleep. We step into the surprisingly clean room. I haven't been back here since that day 4 years ago. Pictures line the mirror, knick-knacks on the dresser. We drop our luggage in the corner and head to the bed. I set an alarm on my phone for 10:30 to give us plenty of time to get up and head to the airport. We lay down and Dani is asleep immediately. There is a good foot of space between us as we sleep. We never did try to cuddle when we sleep. Even after sex, it just seemed odd to sleep so close. I turn on my side towards my dresser and I go to sleep with memories replaying in my head.
I finish brushing out Brit's long golden hair and put the brush down so I can pull her hair into a high pony. I always loved playing with her hair, especially after our long make-out sessions. As I'm tying the band, I hear her speak.
"I want to talk to you about something," I wait for her to continue as I finish her hair. "I really like when we make out, and stuff." I mean yea, that's why we do it. Cause it's freaking hot and we both like it.
"Which isn't cheating, because…?" I quiz her as I step next to her.
"The plumbing's different," she answers.
"Mmhm." I respond. Yes, I know it's technically cheating, but as long as Brit doesn't think it is, we can keep doing it. Ever since we started dating Cripples we haven't gotten to hang out as much. Ever since he accused her of cheating during Sectionals, she's been hanging around him even more. And there's nothing wrong with getting our sweet lady kisses on.
"But when Artie and I are together we talk about stuff like feelings." She looks at me through the mirror as I reapply my lip gloss. I was scared that she would start asking these questions. Hopefully I can steer her away from the topic.
"Why?"
"Because with feelings, it's better," she says nonchalantly. Brit could be saying the secret to the universe and say it like's it no big deal. And what does she mean it's better with feelings?
"Are you kidding?" I respond, "It's better when it doesn't involve feelings. I think it's better when it doesn't involve eye contact." I don't think I've enjoyed a time with feelings. I lost my virginity when I was 15 to this really hot football player, Zack. I had such a crush on him at the time. While having sex, I had so many feelings about us, but it was a disappointment. I was just a fuck to him. I cried to Brittany that night and she just held me. I learned then that sex doesn't mean anything, it's just about getting off and having fun. As soon as feelings get involved, it turns into a mess.
"I don't know, I guess I just don't know how I feel about us." Fuck, fuck, fuck. I can't do this conversation. Can't she just accept that it's fun for both of us? Why do there have to be feelings, or another way to look at "us"? We've been best friends for years and I would do anything for her. She's suggesting there's more to it than friends "us". The thought of that is crazy and ridiculous and and wonderful and WAIT… I didn't say that last part. That would make me… no way. Not possible.
"Look, let's be clear here. I'm not interested in any labels," I tell her as I move towards my bed to pick up a pillow from the floor and place it on the very messy bed. We got pretty into it today. "Unless it's on something I shoplift." I add trying to lighten the mood. Seriously, this conversation is getting a little too serious for me.
"I don't know, Santana. I think we should talk to somebody. Like an adult. This relationship is really confusing for me."
"Breakfast is confusing for you," I counter.
"Well, sometimes it's sweet and sometimes it's salty. Like, what if I have eggs for dinner, then – what is it?"
I stare at her for another moment. Is she right? Brit always was a genius, but the thought of talking to someone about this is…scary. Heck last year when Brit made the comment about our sex life to the glee club, I got a few questioning looks from Wheezy and Lady Hummel. And maybe there has been something between Brit and me. I mean we make out a lot, we are always together. But that's just because we're best friends, right? Maybe we should talk to someone just to clear the air. But there is no way in hell we are talking to someone who works at McKinley. Mr. Schue would make it lesson of the week, Ms. Pillsbury would get flustered and freak out, and Coach is just completely out of the question. Then again, Holly is still in town and I don't know what it is about her, but I just feel like I could trust her.
"Fine, we'll talk to someone. But only if that someone is Ms. Holliday. I don't want any of the others getting involved in our business." Brit gives a small smile, gets up and hugs me. Hesitantly, I hug her back and squeeze a little harder. I just know that this talk is going to change things, and I'm too scared for them to.
"Don't Stop Believing, Hold on to that feeling"
I groan and reach for my phone. Remind me again why I used that as my alarm? I look over at Dani and see she is still asleep.
"Hey, babe. Time to wake up," I gently shake her. She starts stirring and eventually opens her eyes. After a short kiss, we both get up and freshen up before heading downstairs. I grab my keys and we head to my car. Oh how I've missed my navy blue Chevy Cruze. This was my true baby. We get in the car and I check the time. 11:00, we have plenty of time to get to the airport before they land. I turn on the radio and start driving towards the highway. About 5 minutes into the drive, Dani turns off the radio and looks at me.
"Ok, I know every time the topic of Brittany is brought up I get worried and you get defensive. But I need you to be completely honest right now. Should I be worried about you and Brittany?" I glance over at her while still maintaining my focus on the road. "Brittany is my best friend and she was my first girlfriend. She'll always be important to me. But no, you shouldn't be worried. I'm dating you, heck we've been living together for 2 weeks, and Britt is getting married in 5 months. There is nothing between us anymore." As I spoke, I heard a voice in my head call out bullshit. I glance over at Dani and her expression softens at my reassurance. She nods and grasps my hand over the center console. I give her a small smile as I take the exit towards the airport. I pull into the Cell Phone Lot and text Quinn saying we are there and for her to text me when they are on their way out. Barely 2 minutes later, Q texts back saying they are heading towards baggage claim. I take a deep breath as I pull away from the lot. I guess it's now or never.
I pull up to the curb, put my flashers on and step out of the car. I keep shaking my hands trying to get rid of the nerves. Then I hear a particular voice among the hundreds around me.
"Quinnie, I can't believe we are back in Lima! Did you text Puck telling him we're here?" There is no mistaking who that voice belongs to. I see three figures walk towards us, but obviously don't see us yet. On the left is Quinn in her 'travel outfit' all dressed up. Like seriously, this girl needs to remember how to bum it out sometimes. On the right, I almost have to do a double take. Tan skin, dark eyes, and bright red hair. If it weren't for the hair, I would think I found my long lost sister or something. Before I can think anything else I hear Quinn respond.
"Actually Brit, someone else is picking us up,"
The blonde in the middle stops midstride when she looks up and our eyes meet. All at once I take in her appearance. That smooth blonde hair blowing in the breeze, those toned legs outlined in skinny jeans. She is just… perfect. And those eyes! Oh how I've missed those shining sapphires. I'm so lost in the gaze, I barely hear the other Latina question my angel… my Brittany.
"Babe, what's wrong?"
Brit lets go of the girl's hand and suitcase and takes off towards me. I can't help but smile as I see her draw closer. I take a few steps forward and feel her launching herself into my arms. I almost lose my balance, but luckily my instincts kick in and I'm hugging her back with everything I have. I'm surrounded by blonde hair and the faint scent of berries.
"I've missed you so much, Brit Brit." Tears are threatening to spill from my eyes and I feel her hug tighter.
"I've missed you too, Sanny," Her voice is heavy with emotion. I pull her closer and enjoy the feeling of being back in her arms. Then I hear another voice, "Nice to see you too, Satan."
I hesitantly pull back from Brit and see Quinn, the redhead, and Dani looking at us. Brit is still smiling from our little reunion and trying to wipe away some forming tears.
"Long time, no see, Lucy." I pulls Q into a short hug and sense another figure walking up behind us.
"Nice to see you again, Quinn. What's it been? Two weeks?" Dani asks. Quinn looks at the girl and nods. "Yea about that long."
I immediately feels something in the pit of her stomach. I honestly forgot Dani was there as soon as I saw Brittany. Speaking of who, I look to Brit.
"Oh, Brit. This is my girlfriend, Dani." A flash of a look crosses her face, but it is gone as quickly as it appears. Was it all in my head? Brit takes Dani's outstretched hand, "It's nice to finally meet you. This is my fiancée, Jasmine."
I finally take in a better look at the mystery redhead. She's about an inch taller than herself, light tan skin, dark brown eyes. Yep, this girl shared many physical qualities with herself. Except for the hair. It's almost blinding. Brittany catches my uneasiness for a second, but then gives a small smile.
"Nice to meet you, Jasmine. Oh and congrats on the engagement. I can tell, Brit is a lucky girl."
"Believe me, I'm the lucky one," she gives a loving glance to her fiancée. There's that pain again.
" Alrighty, I guess we should hit the road," I break the silence and grabs the suitcases to put in the trunk. Before the girls could reach the car, I open the back door and waves her hand. "For you, my guests." Quinn goes in first rolling her eyes, Jasmine gives a strange look but politely thanks me, and Brittany giggles as she gets in last. Before I could close the door, B stands and pecks me on the cheek and sits back down. I almost reach up to my cheek until I remembers where I am and the circumstances. I quickly close the back door and open the passenger side door for Dani, "For you, m'lady." Dani also looks puzzled but offers a thanks as she climbs in. I run to the other side and as soon as I slide into my seat, Dani cups my face and connects our lips. "Thanks babe", she says.
I smile, turning back to the wheel and catching a glimpse of my best friend in the rear view mirror. The blonde quickly lowered her head and grasped her fiancée's hand. That feeling in my stomach returned as I shifted gears and drove back towards Lima. I swear I didn't imagine that look.
The drive way back was filled with small talk trying to fill the awkward silence. And yet there was a tension in the air which no one dared to bring up. Everyone in the car was aware of Brit's and mine's past relationship. Dani and Jasmine have heard the stories, Quinn stood by our sides, and Brit and I lived it.
"So San, how's New York? Are Kurt and Rachel still driving you crazy?" Brit asks.
"It can be a bit crazy, though I actually moved in with Dani 2 weeks ago. Lady Hummel and Grandma Berry were looking for a new place."
"San, when are you going to stop with the names? High school was 6 years ago."
"Old habits die hard."
"Are you still working at that diner?"
"No, but Dani does. I work at this new restaurant/bar as a bartender and part time entertainer."
Quinn cuts in, "Yea she's gotten pretty good with guitar."
Brittany looks up, "You play guitar now?"
I looks in the rearview mirror and replie, "Yea, Dani taught me. I'm still working on it, but I can keep up with most songs."
"I wanna hear it!"
"Maybe at the reunion."
"Oh Sanny, did you get my text this morning? We need to talk about the wedding."
Dani gives me a questioning look as I continue driving, "Yea I saw it this morning. I'll let you know." I reach my hand over the center console to Dani's and give a reassuring squeeze. "So Q, did Puck say what the plan is?"
"Yea, uh lunch at Breadstix whenever we are ready. Do we want to go straight there or freshen up first?"
Jasmine speaks up, "I'd like to go freshen up first if that's ok. I don't want to smell airplane when I meet everyone."
"Ok, I'll drop you guys off and we'll meet at Breadstix around 1."
"Actually Sanny," Brit says, "can you give us a ride? I haven't driven in a while and it's starting to get icy."
"No problem. I'll let you know when I leave my parents' house."
"Oh tell Mario and Maribel I said hi! I miss them!"
"Haha I will. Tell Whitney and Pierce I miss them and I say hey."
We pull up to the Pierce residence and I can't help but reminisce of the times I would spend in the house. The tree in the backyard which I would climb to sneak into the blonde's room is still growing tall. The memories bring a smile to my faces as they give each other a knowing look.
"I'll see you guys soon!" Brit and Jasmine wave as they head up towards the house. I take a deep breath and pull away.
"Quinn, do you need a ride too?"
"No, actually can you take me to Rachel's?"
"I knew it. But won't they question you arriving with Berry?"
"I think they'll be distracted by Jasmine. I was the only one who knew her before today."
"Well I guess we'll find out if she is friend approved from everyone else."
We pull up to the Berry residence and Quinn exits the car. I stay parked outside as Quinn rings the doorbell and Rachel answers the door. Both girls smile and embrace each other and share a short sweet kiss. Rachel spots me watching out of the corner of my eye and gives a small wave which I nod in return. I pull away and starts driving back towards my parents' house.
"Well I guess now I've finally met Brittany. Her fiancée is nice too." As much as I want to say something about Jasmine, especially the uncanny resemblance to me, I decide against it.
"Yea, I'm glad Brit found someone."
"What text was she talking about?"
"Brit text me this morning wanting to hang out tomorrow night to work on wedding stuff. You can check my phone, if you don't believe me. I was going to talk to you about it. Since it's going to be all wedding stuff, it'll just be her and me. If you don't want me to go or whatever, then I'll tell Brit I can't. I'm not going to lie, I really want to go so I can see how she is alone. That would also mean you would be stuck with either my parents or Rachel, your choice."
"Santana, I trust you. Now seeing how you and Brittany interact, I know that you guys are best friends. I'll probably hang with Kurt since Rachel will be with Quinn alone."
We arrive back at the house and Dani goes straight upstairs to freshen up a bit. I head towards the kitchen, noticing Mami on the phone. I overhear part of the conversation.
"Let me know if you sense anything else, Whitney. We miss talking to you, too. I'll visit the fortress later today to clean it. Ok. Bye Whitney. Have a good day."
I walk in the room, "Brittany says hello and she misses you," I say relaying the message on.
"Oh Santana, I didn't hear you come in. I was just talking to Whitney. She said she was happy to finally meet Jasmine."
"Wait, she never met the Pierces?" That was odd, like really odd. When Brittany liked someone, she would introduce them to her entire family within the first week.
"They got engaged so quickly and Brittany was always busy at school. I've heard that Brit met the Smiths on multiple occasions however. Oh and Whitney said that this Jasmine has a striking resemblance to you."
"I guess Brit has a type."
"We both know Brittany doesn't have a type, she has a person."
"Mami, what are you doing? Why are you bringing this up? I have a girlfriend and Brittany is engaged. I'm going to be helping her with wedding stuff tomorrow night."
"I'm assuming you two will be hiding in the castle?"
"How do you- "
"Oh please. Do you really think we are that clueless? You'll be happy to know that it's still standing. The Pierces and we have been keeping up with it for when you girls returned home. Santana, please get through to her. Something seems off with this wedding."
"Yea I know, but Jasmine is a good person from what I can tell so far. I might unleash Snix on her to get a better read, but she checks out."
"And how is Brittany? C'mon Santanita. We love her like our own daughter. Heck I wish she were my daughter..."
"Mami! Stop. That was the past. I care about Brit too and that's also why I wanted to see her tomorrow. If something is up, I'll be able to tell."
"Alright. So what is on your schedule for this week?"
"In a few minutes, we are heading out to lunch with some of the gang. Tomorrow night I'm meeting with Brit. Tuesday afternoon: Glee meeting, night: reunion party. Thursday is Thanksgiving here I'm assuming. And our flight is next Sunday. As of now, we're free tomorrow and Tuesday morning, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Though I'll probably be with the gang for most of it."
Dani comes downstairs.
"Hey babe. Ready to go?"
"Yea, let me just text Brit. Bye Mami. Tell Papi we'll see him tonight."
"Have fun girls!"
I pull out my phone and type out a text to Brit.
Hey Brit Brit. We are leaving my parents' house now.
We climb into the car and head back to the Pierce residence. Brit and Jasmine walk out and towards the car. I look behind them and see Whitney and Pierce waving. I smile and wave back. They may have seemed clueless at times, but they are a second family to me. When I came out to them, they just hugged me and told me that Brittany and I can finally start making babies. Brit and I couldn't stop blushing.
"Hi Sanny!"
"Hey Brit Brit. Ready to go?" I look at the back seat at the two girls. Brit is now wearing a long pink sweater with leggings and boots. Jasmine is wearing skinny jeans with a turquoise top and flats. The girls nod and I pull away from the house. The ride is short and mostly silent. I can't tell if it's an awkward silence or a comfortable one. I pull into my regular spot and see Puck's truck already parked. When we enter the restaurant, we are greeted with the call of our names. Puck, Kurt, Rachel, Quinn, and the Changs are waving us towards our booth. We greet each other and are about to introduce Dani and Jaz when Puck interrupts.
"And who might you be gorgeous?" Puck wags his eyebrows to Jaz. Brit ruffles his Mohawk.
"This is Jasmine, my fiancée." There it is again, the sting. I introduce Dani to Mike and Tina and they give small waves and smiles. Once we slide into the booth, the awkward silence sets in for a few moments until Kurt breaks the ice with wedding questions. I'm grateful we have something to talk about, but this conversation is not the best option. We decided we will start dress shopping on Wednesday and continue over the weekend as some of us are planning to do Black Friday shopping. They wanted to keep the wedding party small, so I'm Brit's maid of honor with Quinn and Brit's sister Sarah as the two other bridesmaids. Luckily, the conversation changed to careers and Mike spoke up,
"I'm opening a dance studio here in Lima. Mr. Schue is going to help out, but I can always use more. Brittany, do you want to maybe teach a few classes? It'll be just like old times."
"Oh, I don't know Mike, I 'm not dancing anymore."
We were all in shock, "WHAT?!"
Mike just stared at her with his mouth agape, "Brit, you're one of the best dancers I know. Why did you stop?"
"I had to focus on my studies."
I looked long and hard at her. Her lips are help tight together, almost like she's biting her tongue. Her eyes glance towards Jasmine, who looks like she is trying to swallow an apple whole. Something is going on.
"B, a year ago you were looking at studios." I hold her glance for a few moments before she replies.
"Yea well, a lot can happen in a year, Santana. Things change." I swear I see a flicker in her eyes, similar to the one I saw when I introduced Dani. I didn't realize it at first, but everyone nervously looked between us. Since that night last year, a few people have taken sides in the matter while a majority remained as neutral as possible. I think they just had a hope that we would resolve the issue. I guess we were all wrong in that. Jasmine is the first to break the silence.
"Brit, can I talk to you in the bathroom real quick?" They excuse themselves from the booth and head towards the restrooms.
"What was that about?" Puck asked, "I mean, I know it didn't end pretty, but talk about passive aggressive. Q, has she always been like that?"
"Not since Jasmine proposed. She seems more on edge than usual though. Probably too many reminders here in Lima."
Now that I really think about it, Quinn's right about the reminders. Lima is still a small town. Everywhere Britt goes, people will know her history with me. Not to mention we've been all around town together. From McKinley to the duck pond to the castle and even to the very booth we are sitting in. I must have spaced out for a second because Q's calling my name.
"San, I know it's awkward, but you know Brit the best. Can you get through to her?"
"Well, we are meeting up tomorrow night for wedding planning. I know something is off with her, but I'm not sure if she'll say. She's right Q, a lot can change in a year. Actually… if you'll excuse me…" I get up and head towards the bathroom. Brit always had a hard time keeping quiet whether it was during our sweet lady kisses or even private conversations. Sure enough, when I get close to the door I hear the couple's conversation.
"You'll be giving up so much. It's not worth it, Brit," I hear Jasmine say.
"I agreed to this. I'm not backing out."
"It's still early. You still have an out. If we wait longer, it'll be harder."
"We already talked about this…"
"You miss dancing and your life here. And, I'm not blind I see…"
"Don't. I made my choice. And this discussion is over."
I run back to the table and slip into my spot before Britt and her fiancée walk back. There's a strange tension between the two. What were they talking about? Is Brittany being forced into marrying Jasmine? And if so, why is she agreeing with it? The Brittany I know wouldn't allow someone to decide something like that for her. Maybe something really did happen. I look around and notice Jasmine is in deep conversation with Dani and the rest of the gang as they share our glee stories. I reach for Brit's pinky and link it with mine.
"You ok?" I whisper to her. We don't even need to talk, we know exactly what we want to say just from the looks and body language.
"Yea. I'm fine." She replies. Her smile is forced and dull. Her eyes are pale blue. Her shoulders are fallen like she just wants to disappear. She is obviously not okay, but she just wants to drop the subject and can't wait to escape everyone. I squeeze her pinky and turn to the group just in time to hear Mike talking about the 'Valerie' performance junior year at Sectionals. Before he can continue, I cut him off.
"Sorry, not sorry to butt in, but we're all kinda tired from our flights. Plus someone should head to the airport to pick up Trouty, Wheezy, and Stubbles. As for the rest of us, we are heading out." I feel Britt squeeze my pinky in thanks as the rest of the group try to convince us to stay.
Dani turns to me, "Actually babe, I want to stick around. I never get to hear high school stories except for the ones Kurt and Rach share."
Jasmine leans towards Brit, "C'mon let's stay. I know you missed everyone."
"Sorry guys, I'm just really tired. San, can you just drop me off at home?"
"Of course Brit-Brit."
"Jasmine and Dani," Kurt starts, "I can take you guys back if you want."
Both girls nod and thank him. Brit and I stand, bid our goodbyes, and head out. We climb in my car and just as I'm turning the car on, Brit is messing adjusting the temperature controls and I can't help but smile as she does it so naturally despite not being in this car for years.
"Thank you, Santana," she whispers. I look over at her, but she keeps her gaze on her hands.
I reach over to her shoulder for her to look at me. "You know I will always help you. Now, tell me what's going on in that pretty little head of yours."
She takes a deep breath, "I don't know. It's just weird being back in Lima. It's like nothing has changed but…everything's changed. I'm sorry, can you just bring me home? I'm sorry for being so stupid."
"Hey," I lift her chin to look at me, "you are not stupid. It's a lot to take in being back here, I understand."
She gives me a small smile and nods. I start to pull out of the parking lot and notice all the memories we pass on the drive. From the duck pond to the ice cream parlor, our story resides in Lima. I can tell Brit notices it too as she seems to shrink into her seat as we continue the drive. Finally, I pull up to her house. We sit awkwardly in the driveway waiting for the other to speak. I'm about to open my mouth when B beats me to it.
"So, how about we meet at the castle around 6:30?" she asks.
"That sounds great. I-uh guess I'll see you then," I whisper back.
"Thanks again for the ride, Santana. I've- I've really missed you." She offers a small smile and gets out of the car heading up to the house.
"I've really missed you too, Brittany." I say to no one in particular. I watch her disappear into the house, but make no progress to leave. I sit there for a few more moments taking in the lingering scent of my passenger. I haven't been near it in a year, but it feels like just yesterday. I give one last glance to the house before I back out of the driveway and head home. I had hoped to talk to Brit longer to figure things out, but I guess I'll do that tomorrow night. When I get home, I go straight upstairs without so much as a word to my parents. I find myself sitting on my bed with my guitar. I've been trying to write a song since high school, but nothing ever came to me. When I'm trying to think, I find myself playing Landslide subconsciously. I think of the events of today and soon find myself strumming another tune. There's something to it that seems soothing. I continue to play around with some chords until I find a nice progression. I'm so caught up in it, that I don't see Dani come in the room. I glance at the clock and realize I'm been playing for a few hours. Dani goes on to tell me about meeting 'Cedes, Sam, and Artie and all the stories. I merely nod along barely paying attention. We grab a quick snack from downstairs and head to bed. I stare at the ceiling for what seems like hours thinking about the meeting with Brit tomorrow. Hopefully I can get her to open up about the past year… hopefully.
A/N: Yes, I'm alive. Damn homework and finals have been kicking my butt all semester. Anyway, sorry for the long wait. Hopefully I can get the next chapters finished quickly as I've been working on several at once (though 3 of them are towards the end). Any and all reviews are much appreciated and as always, feel free to message me. Thanks!