Author's Note: was Hoping to update sooner, but I live in NYC and unfortunately was called in to work overnight at the pethotel that I work at due to the hurricane lol.

Chapter 4: Thanksgiving

As soon as my eyes opened, I felt that familiar sting of sunlight hitting me. I turned away trying to hide from the sunlight, but instead all I felt was pain.

"Ugh," I groaned. My head was pounding and I instantly felt everything I'd eaten and drank last night making its way up my throat. "Oh no!" I jumped off the bed trying to ignore the beating my head was feeling and ran to the bathroom, falling onto the floor quickly. After a few minutes, I was leaning against the toilet, having vomited the most that i've ever done ever. Surprising enough, the queasy feeling was disappearing, leaving only the headache. I brushed my teeth, hoping to get rid of the vomit breath and stumbled out of the bathroom. Just as I opened the door, a figure blocked my path.

"You okay?" asked Santana. She was leaning by the door with a bottle of water in hand and something small in the other.

"Sorry, didn't mean to wake you, "I replied glumly. I closed my eyes, hoping it would help my head.

She gave me a hard look, "Britt its okay." She stepped toward me, "Here," she said handing me the bottle of water and what looked to be advil. I smiled gratefully and took the pills, while chugging the bottle of water. Leave it to San to take care of me, even after how horrible I was to her last night.

We exited the bathroom and I found myself tripping over a heavy object. "Thanks," Santana had grabbed my hand in time. I tried not to focus on the her hands that had encircled my waist or how close her body was to mine.

"Watch it Britt," she said with a serious expression. I nodded at her and squinted my eyes.

"What was that?" I looked down and noticed a body sprawled on the floor, "Is that Rachel?" San smiled, "San!" I hit her arm and glared at her.

"What?" she asked, "Don't give me that look. She looked more than happy on the floor. Plus I gave her my sheets. What more could she want?" she asked.

I looked at the hot pink sheets and tried not to laugh, "You gave her the pink sheets your mom forced you to buy. That doesn't count." At this point my mouth was twitching and I couldn't stop the smile from breaking onto my face.

"Hey she should be grateful, I could have left her here alone without any sheets." Scoffed San, "Plus she looked happy and comfortable snuggled with the floor." I looked at Rachel whose hair was in complete dissaray, and covered her whole face.

"Can she breath?" I asked trying to spot any movement.

San squinted at Rachel, "I think," replied Santana, she shifted closer to Rachel, "Yep! Look she's twitching." I laughed, forgetting how badly my head hurt.

"Ouch," I yelped grabbing my head. I stared at San and wondered how she could look so beautiful in the morning. Her hair was piled onto a messy bun, yet she looked radiant. Her eyes were an amazing brown color and looked like they were sparkling. Part of me hoped that it was because of me that she was so happy, but then again she did spend most of her night with Puck. "Why aren't you hungover? I thought you went to Finn's pre-game." I asked stepping over Rachel carefully to get to my bed. I forgot how high up my bed was, I usually had to jump up just to get onto my bed, but somehow I knew that there was no way I would make it without my head hurting.

"You can join me," said San understanding my dilemma. I smiled gratefully and joined her on her bed. "I was, but- I don't know. I felt bad," she shrugged, "I felt like I was missing an important night with you. Plus I wasn't exactly having the time of my life with Puck. All he ever wants is one thing." she sighed staring at her hands.

"He's a guy," I answered glumly.

"I guess," she replied thoughtfully.

"If you wanted to come with us then you should have," I told her softly.

"I wasn't sure if you wanted me to," I blinked at her. When do I not want her around? If it were up to me then we would be spending time with each other all of the time. "I mean you barely batted an eyelash before telling me to go."

I sighed, wondering how we got to this point. I don't remember the last time we've ever over analyzed everything we've said to one another. "San," I called out to her. She looked up at me and waited for me to speak, "I'll always want you around, but I figured if you wanted to stay then you would've," she nodded understanding the ridiculous misunderstanding that we created.

"It was weird... to see you so drunk and not be there. You know to not be there to make sure you were safe." she said with a soft smile, "I was worried when you called. You were so drunk and I felt like I should have been there with you." She stared at me and for a moment she looked like she was in deep thought.

"I remember the whole night actually," I cut her off. I preferred to not recap too much. My memory of the night was nearly perfect sadly. I remember how hurt I had been when she chose Puck and not me. I remember how my sadness turned into anger and soon I was drinking alcohol like it was water.

"It was like an eye opener. When you said 'no need,' I was so surprised. It made me realize that all of these years we've always protected each other in our own ways, but maybe we don't need each other anymore. When did we grow up?" she asked sadly.

"San, I was drunk and we were in the cab when I drunk dialed you. I had only meant that you had no need to pick me up." I said, "I'll always want you around San and i'll always need you. I don't think that will ever change. Sure we're growing up, but I don't think that means that we won't need each other anymore."

"I'll always be here Britt," she promised making me smile brightly.

"Good because you're stuck with me." I promised her, "So are you not mad at me for last night?" I asked.

"Of course not," She laughed.

"Good because you definitely owe Sam an apology." Her grin disappeared.

"Britt," she whined pushing me away.

"Ugh," groaned a loud voice. We both turned to see Rachel. Her hair was plastered against her face and I could make out one of her brown eyes through her strands of hair. She rolled over and groaned again, "My head," she cried wriggling against the floor, "What the?" She stood up quickly causing her face to turn a greenish color.

"Careful Rachel," I warned, "We'd rather you not puke all over our floor."

She nodded and took a deep breath, "Brittany?"She squinted a little, "Oh god how did we get here? Wait why am I on the floor?" she asked glaring at Santana.

"Hey don't go blaming me midget. You're the one who passed out on the floor. Do you know how heavy you are to move, especially when you're dead weight."

"Why do I feel like I hit my head a dozen times?" she asked. I looked at Santana who looked a bit guilty.

She looked at Rachel and smiled slightly, "You may have hit your head when you fell onto the floor. You're actually really clumsy."

"What?" she yelped, "And you let me sleep?"

"Stop being so dramatic" scoffed San, "I tried to wake you, but you were dead to the world. By the way did anyone tell you, you snore." Said San bluntly.

"I could have died! What if I had a concussion?" Rachel was searching her head for bumps.

"Well you didn't did you? Pity that. Plus what did you expect? You fell onto my floor while I was helping Britt into her bed. If you would have waiting patiently like any normal drunk then I could have put you in my bed." she said irritated.

"Right and where would you have slept? On the floor?" she asked angrily, "Like you would have given up your bed for me."

San was looking at her thoughtfully so I stepped in, "Duh she would have slept in my bed," Now thinking about it, I was getting annoyed. Why couldn't Rachel have been a good drunk? Rachel looked at me for a moment before shrugging. I guess she forgot that no matter what i'm feeling, San is still my best friend.

"So what exactly happened last night?" asked Rachel. Santana and I smiled evilly at one another, this will be fun.

"Well it started with lots of Vodka and ended with a stripper pole-" I shrugged, "Which would you like to hear about first?" I asked innocently.

"W-What?" stuttered Rachel.

The weeks flew by and soon we were preparing for our first trip home.

"Really Britt," said San annoyed, "We should have gotten first class," It's no secret that Santana's family has money, not that she's ever flaunted it to me. Her parents are both successful doctors, thusfore they make tons of money. I know she would have spotted me the money for first class, but I just felt the need to ride in coach. "I barely have any leg room," she complained, extending her legs. Although she did have a point, I was hoping that she wouldn't be like this for the whole trip. As much as I love the girl, I don't think I could deal with 5 hours of her whining. "And you call this entertainment?" she asked puzzled at the small TV with a cheap remote hanging from it.

"San!" I whined, "Look I promise next time we can ride first class, but just this time could you please try to have fun. You're with me" I told her.

"Sheesh, I am trying," she huffed earning a raised eyebrow from me. "Fine i'll try harder."

"Thanks Sanny," I smiled kissing her cheek. My lips tingled and I tried my hardest to look like that kiss hadn't affected me. I tried my best to rid my head of the new thoughts that had taken over. Instead of thinking about how soft her cheek was or how soft her lips must be, I tried my best to think of home and getitng through the next 5 hours. She nodded at me and sighed.

For the next few hours we watched TV together. We had been closer than ever for the last few weeks. For some reason, not that i'm complaining, Santana didn't spend that much time with Puck, which made me wonder what did happen that night at dinner. Santana didn't seem to want to talk about it, so I hadn't bothered to ask. I figured that if it were important than she would have told me.

"We will be arriving in Dayton International Airport in 5 minutes. Please put your seat belts on and close all trays. Also I ask that you please turn off all electronic devices. Thank you for traveling with American Airlines and we hope you enjoy your stay in Ohio." Said the flight attendant.

"Wow we are a little early. What time did you tell your dad?" asked San. I checked my phone before shutting it off.

"Don't worry, I told him 5:30pm. Plus we still need to go to the baggage claim because someone decided to bring the biggest luggage she can imagine," I replied rolling my eyes.

"Britt you can never have too much clothes," scoffed San.

"Yeah but we're only here for 3 days."

"You never know where we might go or who we might see." she shrugged. The plain titled downwards slowly and a few minutes later we were pulling into our terminal.

"I don't know. The only people I am hoping to see is my family, your family, and that's it."

"Britt! All our old friends are going to be home. Don't you want to see Tina or Blaine?" she asked. In all honesty I had forgotten that they would be home and I wasn't sure that I was ready to see them all again. "You forgot didn't you?" she asked.

"Maybe," i replied guiltily, "I just have had a lot on my mind. I mean with school, dance, and college I haven't really been able to keep up with anyone. They're going to kill me."

"Relax Britt, i'm sure they were busy too. Don't worry they probably won't be too upset," she replied softly, "Now come on! I want to say hi to papa Pierce." I laughed and together we left the plane along with all of the other passengers.

"Mrs. P." yelled San happily. My dad had taken our luggage to the car. Instantly she was by my moms side, hugging her tightly. I watched in admiration at how easily San fit into my family. My parents were easy to talk to, but they didn't take to my friends as well as they did to her.

"How are my two girls?" asked mom. As soon as she let go of my mom, I was in her arms. Three months was way too long to be away from home. As much as I loved living away from home, it still didn't change the way I felt for my family.

"We're great," smiled San.

"So your flight was good?" mom asked.

"Yep," I replied challenging San to say otherwise. To my surprise she stayed quiet.

"Yeah it was awesome Mrs. P." she replied genuinely.

"Good, good. So your parents agreed to Thanksgiving dinner at our house this year. You're going to love it Santana!" said mom enthusiatically. I could see a small smile on her face. "Okay I wish you two could stay a little longer. I can't believe you're only staying until Saturday. 3 days is not nearly enough time!" She replied.

"Yeah mom. I know but we have class Monday and homework," I shrugged. It did suck, but I figured 3 days home would be more than enough time. There's only so much time that I could spend with my family before I go insane.

"I know," mom replied glumly, "Well we can't obsess over the small stuff. I'm glad you both made it. Come on." The drive went by quickly. We caught up with my parents for most of the trip. "So Santana we'll see you tomorrow then for Thanksgiving?"asked Mom as we arrived in front of the Lopez's large home.

"Of course." she hugged me before heading to her home. Tonight would be a long night alone in my house. At least I have my family, I told myself. That didn't make me feel any better.

"This dinner is delicious Mrs. P." complimented Santana after she swallowed a mouthful of turkey. We were seated at the table chatting happily.

"Yes Bridgette, you've really outdone yourself. This dinner tastes great," said Mrs. L. My mom had spent nearly all last night and all of this morning finishing the dinner. I'd like to say it was fun, but my mom is like a slave driver when guests are due to come over. I spent most of Thanksgiving with my older sister Carla cleaning and cooking and by the time we were finished I was completely exhausted. The only reason I was awake was because of my excitement to seeing Santana and her family.

"I'm glad," said mom happily. I could easily see what kept our families so close aside from San and my friendship. Somehow our parents kept each other sane. San's mom and dad were more outgoing even if they were not always around for San. Compared to my strict household, they were amazing.

"So girls, how's school?" asked dad, "It feels like we never get to speak with you lately." I looked away guiltily. Ever since school started, I had only been able to talk to my parents about once a week that is if we weren't too busy.

"Schools good daddy," I shrugged praying that he wouldn't make me continue.

"Yeah Mr. P. My pre-law group has been pretty good. I love my business law classes," replied San enthusiastically. My dad nods and smiles.

"What about you honey? Are you also taking extra curriculars?" he asked me.

"Not many dad, i'm just focusing on getting good grade before overwhelming myself with too many activities."

"But Brittany its good to have some hobbies on the side."

"I know and I do-"

"Actually you should see the dance team that Britt's joined. Its the best on campus."

"Dance? You didn't tell us you were thinking of joining a dance team," I stared guiltily.

"I know, it never came up," I shifted uncomfortably bracing myself for the onslaught.

"Brittany we discussed this." I hated the look he was giving me. My dad looked so disappointed in me, it was killing me.

"I know daddy, but you just said it would be good if I immersed myself in different clubs and hobbies," I argued

"But dance? Honey we just don't think its appropriate."

"why? I love to dance. It keeps me from getting too stressed," I argued. "Shouldn't I be allowed to join clubs that I enjoy?"

"well I think its great that Brittany has found a hobby that she loves. she's always been an amazing dancer," said Mrs. L. I smiled gratefully at her. This is why I love Mrs. L. So much.

"We never said she wasn't any good. It's just not a stable future for her." A pinky grazed my own and suddenly took mine. I made eye contact with San and she tried to smile, but failed.

"I'm glad schools going good girls." Said Mr. L. effectivally ending the conversation.

"I'm so sorry Britt." apologized San. We were in my bedroom laying on the bed, allowing our stomach to digest all of the food.

"It's okay San. You couldn't have known. Plus you were just trying to defend me." I shrugged.

"Why didn't you tell them?"

"well you saw their reaction, didn't you?" She nodded, "They have always had such strong opinions about my future. It's like they already have it planned out."

"Britt-"

"Can we not talk about this?" i asked, "It's supposed to be the holidays. I don't want to worry about this."

"Okay sure. How about we go shopping tomorrow? I mean its black friday and all. who knows what we'll find? Hell i'll even call Tina and see if she'll join us." She didn't have to ask me twice,

"Hell yeah!" this is why I love Santana.

"Brittany!" yelled my favorite Asian.

"Tina!" I yelled back, engulfing her in a huge hug, "How's school?" I asked.

"It's fun. I mean Ohio State is all that you can imagine it to be, i guess." She shrugged.

"Aww don't put yourself down. It's a good school." I replied, "When are you visiting us?"

"Yeah Tina! You needs to visit us," added San As she finished her coffee.

We had finished our shopping and were relaxing at a cafe inside the mall. We each had bags of items filled with clothes, electronics, and more.

"I can't believe we bought all of this stuff," I groaned feeling exaustion kicking in.

"I can't believe we were up that early, especially you San," said Tina playfully.

"Well you know how it is. College changes a person." Yeah it does, i thought to myself.

"Well I need to head home soon. It was nice seeing you!" she yelled.

we walked Tina to her car before heading to San's car.

"Hey you heading home or coming over?" I asked Hoping to avoid my parents. Luckily Carla has been keeping them occupied.

"My parents are out. They got called into work and barely have noticed that i'm gone." laughed san.

"So I guess my place then. Unless you have somewhere else to be." We both laughed and jumped into the car. The drive to my house was quick and soon we were inside.

"Mom? Dad? Carla?" I called out, "Hmm no ones home. I guess they all went shopping too."

We headed to my room to drop everything off.

"Thirsty?" I asked as I poured myself some water and drank. She smiled evilly and took mine, taking a sip before handing it back. "Hey!" I cried half heartedly.

"Thanks Britt" she smirked "As much as I miss home, I miss college more," said San.

"Me too."

"So our flight leaves tomorrow right? What time should we meet?"

"I'd say 12."

"Good." she said stretching when her foot hit something, "Oh my god is this what I think it is?" she asked grabbing my picture album, "I can't believe we graduated just 5 months ago." she said staring at the pictures. I nodded. "Oh my god is this you and Artie?" I tried to take the picture from her and ended up extremely close to her. her perfume was strong and invaded my senses causing me go give up.

"Oh god!" I groaned As she inspected the picture.

"I can't believe you dated him." She said, her tone filled with disgust.

"He's a nice guy," I shrugged, in all reality he was a sweet guy except when he tried to get me to sleep with him.

"Sure. Keep telling yourself that Britt."

"What do you have against him?" I asked curious. it's not like I told her about him pressuring me. If I had then she would have killed him.

"Me? Nothing, he was just annoying." She turned to the next picture. She looked, flustered for some reason and was staring intently at the picture. I was sitting incredibly close to her and shivered as our legs collided. my mind was telling me toI've away, but as if magnetic, I couldn't move away.

"San?" I asked before I could figure out what I was doing.

"Yeah?" she asked turning to face me. Her body was so close to mine and her lips were the perfect distance. Before I could stop myself, I closed the distance, placing my lips on her own. They were so soft and I could taste her coconut lip gloss. Every thought in my mind disappeared and was replaced with Santana. My body heated up instantly, yet I could feel goosebumps erupting everywhere. Then her hands touched my waist and pulled me closer. Her lips moved against my own and suddenly we were battling for dominance. The innocence of the kiss was gone. My tongue brushed her lips and her mouth opened, allowing me entrance. Just as our tongues met, a door slammed forcing us to break apart. I stared at her in amazement. Never has anyone made me feel this way especially with a kiss.

"I-I should go, I haven't packed yet," said San, "I'll see you tomorrow...okay?" she asked as she gathered her jacket and phone. I nodded and watched her leave. What just happened?

Author's Note: Hope you enjoyed. Thanks for the reviews. I'm glad you are enjoying the story.