A/N: Hi everyone. This chapter has been driving me crazy. I couldn't get it exactly how I wanted it and it's been holding up the rest of the story. I have three quarters of chapter eight and half of nine already written. I've been working on this one before I even posted chapter six. I final gave up and decided that this is as good as it's going to get. With that being said, this is the longest chapter I have ever written, EVER! Hope you guys like it. As always, read, review, follow, favorite and enjoy.
...
"Mercedes let's try it one more time. Maybe this time you could try to give it a little more soul," Santana tease.
Mercedes pulls a face and Santana laughs.
"Just run it back and pay attention to teacher. You might learn something," Mercedes says.
Santana signals to Rico and he starts the song over from the top. They sit at the board and watch Mercedes as she intently listens to the music. When her part comes in, she starts to sing.
I love it how we chill, I love our conversation
I'm dealing with this feeling of infatuation
Pacing, don't want to force the situation
Waiting for you to make a move, no hesitation
I'm thinking maybe this could turn into something more
I'm feeling you boy you got me open for sure
I'm hoping that the feelings are mutual
Trying to hold out cause I want you to know
Santana woke up this morning feeling utterly inspired. She wrote the song in about an hour and called Mercedes up to see if they could meet at the studio. The second it was done, she knew she had to give it to her friend. She actually wanted to keep it for herself because it was rather personal. She knew if she did that, it would probably never see the light of day. Santana was going to have to settle for Mercedes being her creative outlet for the time being.
I'm addicted to you
When I see you, want to be with you
Everything you do
All I dream of, when I wake up
My every thought is you
I'm addicted to you
When I see you, want to be with you
Everything you do
I can't fight it cause I like it
My every thought is you
Although Santana knew she would have sang the hell out of this song, Mercedes' voice more than does it justice. It's sweet and smooth, but powerful when it needs to be. Santana glances over at Rico and sees that he's definitely in to it. He's nodding his head to the music while he plays with some of the switches on the board. Mercedes brings the song home in her grand diva fashion.
"And that, pupils, is how you get it done. Class dismissed," Mercedes smiles.
Santana stands and bows down to Mercedes, as if she's appreciating royalty on their throne. She presses a button so Mercedes can hear what she's saying.
"I'm not worthy. That's why you are the queen and I am but a mere peasant."
Mercedes laughs as she makes her way out of the booth.
"Snixx you have been on a roll lately. I mean everything you write nowadays is straight fire. I don't know where you go to get inspired, but I'm going to need for you to live there from now on," Rico jokes.
"Yes Santana, your inspiration must be amazing," Mercedes agrees.
Santana recognizes the all knowing look she has in her eyes. She takes a seat on the sofa situated in the corner of the room while Rico polishes up the track. She doesn't want him to over hear the conversation she's about to have.
"So," Mercedes starts.
"Mm hmm."
"I want to thank you for blessing me with such a lovely song," Mercedes says.
"You're very welcome. I do what I can," Santana answers casually.
"I must say, the lyrics are very revealing," Mercedes comments.
"Mercedes," Santana warns.
"What? All I'm saying is that your muse as of late seems to be of the blonde haired, hazel eyed variety," Mercedes continues.
"Look, I don't want to keep rehashing my unrequited love for Quinn Fabray with you. So could you give it a rest?" Santana says angrily.
"Whoa there Satan. I was just teasing so you can retract your horns ok."
Santana scrunches her face up at the use of the nickname that her friends often call her when her temper starts to get the best of her.
"What's going on with you?" Mercedes asks.
"I haven't heard from Quinn in three days," Santana says.
Mercedes motions with her hands to Santana that she doesn't see the significance in this.
"We've been in contact with each other constantly every single day since she has been gone. That was until TMZ ran that ludicrous story about me and Maggie," Santana elaborates.
"Oh," Mercedes says, recognition finally dawning on her.
"And now I think she's upset with me."
"So have you tried to explain yourself?" Mercedes asks.
"I have, even though I don't feel that I should have to. She hasn't been accepting any of my calls though."
"Why do you feel like you don't need to explain?"
"Cause she should trust the things that I'm telling her," Santana grumbles.
"Santana I want you to hear me and I want you to hear me good. Usually I don't get involved in the love lives of my friends, especially when they're involved with each other, but I got a lot of love for you and Lucy. Consider this a one time intervention that isn't going to happen again."
"I'm listening," Santana says.
"Lucy has been screwed over by everyone who has supposedly loved her for her entire life. It's hard for her to trust. You're going to have to keep reassuring her and let your actions do the talking."
"Can't she tell how enamored I am with her? I don't pay basic broads this much attention. She should know she's special to me," Santana pouts.
"Honey she doesn't know Santana yet. All she really has seen is a glimpse. She only really knows what the media's impression of you is. We both know that's been less than flattering. I know you're used to booty just falling in your lap. Sorry to tell you, you're going to have to work for this one."
Santana groans, knowing that she is right. Mercedes just chuckles. It had been a long time since she saw Santana flustered over a woman.
"Girl you have got it bad," Mercedes laughs.
"You have no idea."
...
The rewrites for the movie are done after a week as promised. Everyone returns to set that Monday ready to get the project done. Quinn is happy to be back at work, but is dreading seeing Santana. They still hadn't spoken since her romantic rendezvous with the mystery woman. The entire flight back to L.A., Quinn had reasoned with herself that she had no right to be upset. She, once again, told herself that her and Santana just worked together and that it was nothing more. She had even managed to talk herself into believing that she was alright with only having a professional relationship with Santana. That was until Quinn got to set and saw her. Santana is chatting amicably to some of the crew. She is laughing and looked totally care free. Quinn thinks she looks nothing short of breath taking. Santana is telling a joke, when she stops mid sentence and looks up. Her eyes scan across the sound stage, as if she knows that Quinn is in the room. Their eyes connect and the blonde can feel the goosebumps rising on her skin. Whatever pep talk she had given herself, flies out of the window. They just stare at each other. Neither says a word. Neither dares to venture closer. Santana turns to the group she had been talking to and politely excuses herself. Quinn hesitates for only a minute before she's following behind her. She stands outside of Santana's trailer, hand poised to knock on the door. She freezes, fearful of what she's going to encounter on the other side. She has a momentary battle with herself, until her desire to see the other woman face to face soon propels her forth. She raps lightly a few times, waiting for Santana to open the door.
"Hi," Quinn says shyly when Santana finally answers.
"Miss Fabray," Santana says cooly.
"So we're back to that I see."
Santana doesn't respond. Instead she walks back in and leans against a counter, arms folded across her chest. Quinn strolls in behind her, not waiting for an invitation. Santana frowns at Quinn and Quinn returns the glare. Each woman is standing her ground, wanting to see who's going to cave first.
"How was New York?" Santana asks
"Good," Quinn answers flatly.
"Good."
"Good," Quinn says again firmly.
They engage in another silent stare down. Santana's arms remain folded over her chest. Quinn's stance is equally as petulant as Santana's.
"Did you enjoy your down time while you were here?" Quinn asks snidely.
"Actually I worked the whole time. The only free time I had was when I had lunch with Mercedes and Maggie at the beginning of the week," Santana replies.
"Maggie?" Quinn questions.
"Yes Mercedes' assistant Maggie. Blonde, pretty, about yea high," Santana demonstrates.
"Oh," Quinn responds.
Quinn feels stupid when it becomes apparent to her who the blonde in the picture was. She knew the young woman looked familiar, but she couldn't quite place her. She hadn't seen Maggie in years. The last time they had a personal interaction, Maggie was fresh out of college. She was bright eyed and bushy tailed and eager to be working for Mercedes Jones.
"Yes Quinn, I had lunch with the both of them. Why did you automatically jump to the worst conclusion? And when you did, why didn't you give me a chance to explain?" Santana asks, no longer able to maintain her poker face.
"I don't know. I just thought," Quinn starts.
"I know what you just thought. You just thought that you were another name on my list of conquest. Did you ever stop to ask yourself that if that were true, why would I still be showing interest in you. I mean, I've already had you."
"Santana, I," Quinn stutters.
"I know what the public perception of me is Quinn. I just figured that since we had been spending so much time together, that you saw past all of that. That you were getting to know the private me. That you understood that this is very important to me. That you are very important to me. I guess not."
Quinn is at a lost for words. She sees the pained expression on Santana's face. The usually confident woman seems unsure and almost delicate. Quinn bites her lip and looks away. She was so blinded by her jealousy that she could hardly think rationally. Santana trains her eyes on the wall, not wanting Quinn to see the emotion playing across her face. Quinn takes a step closer to her.
"Hey," Quinn utters.
Santana still doesn't acknowledge her. Quinn unfolds Santana's arms from her chest. Quinn clasps Santana's hands firmly into her own.
"Santana look at me please," she says softly.
Santana looks at her and Quinn's heart almost breaks.
"I'm really sorry for hurting you," Quinn says.
"You didn't hurt me," Santana says stubbornly.
"All the same, I apologize either way."
Quinn gently tugs on Santana's hands, pulling her into her arms. Santana resists at first, but gives into Quinn's embrace. She exhales deeply and hugs Quinn a little tighter. After a moment Quinn steps away.
"Are we okay?" she asks.
"Yes," Santana answers.
"Good. I really like getting to know you better and I would like for that to continue, Santana."
"I'd very much like that as well," Santana agrees.
"Okay. Im going to head to wardrobe. See you on set."
"Okay."
...
After clearing the air between them, Quinn and Santana were able to fall right back into a nice rhythm with each other. The movie was coming along smoothly. The days on set seemed to fly by. The nights on set, when they weren't shooting, were spent in one trailer or the other under the guise of building a friendship.
Santana had just left her trailer to head to Quinn's. She heard the faint sound of music. The closer she got, the louder it became. When Santana got to the door she knocked a few times. She knew the woman inside couldn't hear her over the noise. Santana tried the knob. When it turned she let herself in.
I can't control how I'm feeling inside.
I'm off the meter.
She's always on my mind.
Been a while since I felt this way.
I don't know what to say.
Santana immediately recognizes the voice and the song as her own. She leans on the doorjamb and watches Quinn prance about.
I get the chills when I look in her eyes
She's so beautiful
She's everything and more
Want to see her every day
Hoping she feels the same way
She's a keeper
Quinn is dancing along in front of a mirror. She's singing into a hair brush, completely unaware that she has company. Santana smiles at witnessing Quinn so uninhibited. She's also impressed that Quinn seems to know every word.
C is for your confidence girl, I love the cool in you
R is for the rumors they make, I wish that they were true
Oh you put a smile on my face, you're Unforgettable
S is for your sexiness
H, I got to have you
Got a crush on you
I love me some you
A big crush on you
I love me some you
Quinn leans into the mirror and does a little shimmy with her shoulders. Santana puts her hand over her mouth to contain her laughter. She doesn't want to alert the other woman to her presences just yet. Quinn keeps bopping along until the song comes to an end. Santana gives her a slow applause.
"Holy shit! You scared the hell out of me!" Quinn exclaims.
Quinn clutches her chest to calm her racing heart. She wasn't expecting to have an audience for her impromptu performance.
"You sounded good there, Quinn. I didn't know you had such a nice singing voice. I didn't know you were a fan either," Santana comments.
Quinn's face flushes from embarrassment. She had listened to Santana's first album more times than she was willing to admit. What she was willing to admit was that the young woman was extremely talented. Quinn ventured to listen to more of her music, interested to see what all the hype behind Santana Lopez was. Most of her sophomore album was a bit on the x-rated side, with the exception of a couple songs. The current one Quinn was playing seemed to strike a chord with her.
"You make good music when your mind isn't in the gutter," Quinn says.
"Thank you I think," Santana answers.
"Why don't you do more songs like this?" Quinn asks.
"I do."
"Why haven't I ever heard any of them?" Quinn inquires.
"You have."
Quinn is confused by Santana's vague answer. She brushes it off and takes a seat. Santana sits on the opposite end of the couch. They look at each other with matching goofy grins on their faces. After a while of just gazing at one another, Quinn starts to feel a little coy.
"Are you going to Mercedes' barbecue this weekend?" Quinn asks.
"Absolutely. Her cook outs are always a guaranteed good time."
"I know right. It feels like forever since I've been to one," Quinn comments.
"Speaking of Mercedes, why didn't you tell me you knew her?" Santana asks.
"Because you seemed so proud that you knew the incomparable Mercedes Jones. I didn't want to take that away from you," she explains.
"How kind of you," Santana says.
Quinn shrugs her shoulders and smiles.
"So since we're both going to the same place and I'm pretty sure you don't know where Cedes' new house is, how about I pick you up?" Santana offers.
"I'd like that," Quinn smiles.
"Cool beans. Now, David isn't going to be upset we're spending time together is he? I don't want to have to go all Lord Voldemort on his ass," Santana says.
Quinn falters, not expecting to be asked about David. She doesn't know why, but she's not yet ready to divulge the nonexistence of a relationship with him to Santana.
"I'm not really concerned what David thinks and neither should you be," Quinn replies.
"Then consider me unconcerned."
"Good, I'll be ready by two," Quinn says.
"Then it's a date," Santana smiles.
...
At exactly two o'clock on Saturday, Santana pulls up outside of Quinn's bungalow at The Chateau. Quinn is already outside waiting for her. Santana parks and waves and Quinn can feel the butterflies start to flutter in her stomach. As she approaches the car, Santana takes the opportunity for a visual appraisal. Quinn is in a white, short sleeved button up shirt. It's tied at the waist and there are frilly ruffles on the arms. She has on a bright red skirt that comes down to her knees. Flat sandals adorn her feet. Her hair is down, gently swaying on her shoulders as she strolls. Santana thinks she looks absolutely beautiful.
"Punctual as usual," Quinn says.
She sits in the passenger seat and flashes Santana her pearly whites.
"Only a fool would keep a woman like you waiting," Santana replies.
Santana winks and pulls off. The women ride in comfortable silence with nothing but the soft tones coming from the radio. Quinn watches the ocean pass in between stealing glances at Santana. Her chauffeur for the day is quietly singing along to the songs that are playing over the airwaves. Quinn isn't paying much attention to what their listening to. That is until she hears something that causes her ears to perk up.
Yayo, yayo
Moo-la-lah
Yayo
"Oh I love this song. Can I turn it up?" Quinn asks.
She doesn't wait for Santana to answer. She leans over and turns the radio way up. The music is so loud, Quinn can feel the rumble from Santana's speakers vibrate the seat. Santana glances back and forth between her passenger and the road. She is in complete awe at the display being put on next to her. Quinn is singing along with Rihanna, word for word. She has her hands in the air and is rocking side to side. Quinn is totally in the moment. Santana can't decide if it's cute or if she's a little disturbed.
I call the shots, shots, shots
Like brrap, brrap, brrap
Pay me what you owe me
Don't act like you forgot
Quinn continues to dance in her seat, singing the song flawlessly.
"Bitch better have my money!" Quinn chants along with the chorus.
She leans into Santana every time she says the line. Santana just laughs, highly amused with this version of Quinn Fabray. Santana gets swept up in the blonde's energy and starts singing along as well. When the song is over, Quinn sits back in her seat with a playful grin on her face.
"Quinn Fabray, that was ratchet as hell," Santana says.
"Ratchet?" Quinn asks.
"I'm sorry, allow me to translate. Quinn Fabray that was behavior unfitting for a lady of your stature."
"Oh whatever. You know you loved it," Quinn says.
"I did. I think if I brought you home to Lima Heighte you would actually be able to handle yourself."
Santana turns the volume down and the women go back to their own silent musings. Quinn is trying not to make to big of a deal about Santana insinuating that she'd like to take her home at some point. She sits back and takes a long look at Santana. She's wearing a yellow sundress with the matching hat. Her hair is down, flowing in the wind. Her signature sunglasses cover her eyes. Her skin seems to glisten in the sun and looks soft as ever. Quinn clenches her fist opened and closed to help resist the urge to run a finger from Santana's shoulder to her wrist.
"What is it Fabray? I can feel you undressing me with your eyes."
Quinn quickly looks away, clearly unaware that her gawking was a little more blatant than she thought.
"I was wondering who's going to be there?" Quinn says, wanting to change the subject.
"A little bit of everyone. Family, friends, some industry people that she's close to, Brittany," Santana rattles off.
"Brittany?" Quinn questions.
"Yes, she and Mercedes are still friends."
"I see," Quinn says.
"It isn't going to be an issue is it?"
"Not at all," Quinn says.
"Im sorry I didn't tell you earlier. It honestly slipped my mind," Santana explains.
"Hey," Quinn starts.
She runs her fingertips over the back of Santana's hand that's resting on the gear shift.
"You said that I'm important to you right?" Quinn continues.
"I did."
"Then I think it's time I should start giving you the benefit of the doubt."
Santana takes her sunglasses off for a minute so that Quinn can see the sincerity in her eyes.
"Thank you."
...
The women arrive at Mercedes' new home in no time flat. Quinn knew her friend had been doing well for herself, but she didn't know how well. Her jaw falls open as she stares at the entrance of the sprawling estate.
"It's nice right?" Santana asks.
Quinn nods her head in the affirmative.
"And you haven't even seen the good parts yet. C'mon."
The pair lets themselves in and heads towards the music they hear coming from the backyard. Quinn marvels the the extravagant decor of Mercedes' home as they trek through. When they step outside again, it's clear that the party is in full swing. There are about sixty people spread throughout the grounds. There's folks lounging on the patio, kids are swimming in the pool, there's a d.j. and a dance floor. Santana smiles when she sees Poppa Jones is manning the grill. She looks over and chuckles at the unbelieving look on Quinn's face.
"Of course Mercedes has a makeshift stage at her barbecue," Quinn comments.
In the center of all the commotion, there's a stage and a live band getting set up to play. Santana spies Mercedes' mom approaching and leads Quinn over to her.
"Hey Momma Jones," Santana says.
She hugs Mercedes mom and kisses her cheek. Mrs. Jones releases Santana and playful pushes her to the side so that she can get to Quinn.
"Hi Momma Jones," Quinn says.
"Oh Lucy! Mercedes told me you were in town. Come here honey and let me give you some sugar," she gushes.
Momma Jones holds Quinn for a long time, whispering something in her ear that Santana can't make out. After she lets Quinn go, she looks back and forth between the pair.
"Funny seeing the two of you show up together. I didn't even know you knew each other," Momma Jones says.
At this point, Mercedes has joined the group to greet her newly arrived guests. Santana gives her a scathing look, which she ignores. She knows Mrs. Jones is up to something and she knows Mercedes has something to do with it.
"Hey, glad ya'll could make it. And together I see," Mercedes says.
"I was just saying the same thing. I'm guessing it wasn't a coincidence that you two arrived at the same time," Mrs. Jones adds.
Santana's eyes shoot to Quinn's, who offers her a comforting smile.
"Momma remember I told you not to mention that because Santana isn't sure if Lucy is feeling her too."
"Mercedes!" Santana exclaims.
Santana gives Mercedes another glare that is once again ignored.
"That's right, my bad," Mrs. Jones apologizes.
Santana knows this conversation is about to get even more uncomfortable. Mercedes and her mother are masters at embarrassing you to no end.
"Hey I see Dice over there. Let me go say hello."
Santana quickly excuses herself from the situation to go speak to her cousin. Mrs. Jones returns her attention to Quinn. Quinn just smiles, knowing that the wheels are turning in Momma Jones' head. She hooks her arm through the crook of Quinn's and leads her further into the yard.
"Come sweetheart. Tell me everything that's been going on with you."
...
After about a twenty minute conversation Mrs. Jones, being cornered by Mr. Jones and saying hello to a veritable amount of people she hadn't seen in a while, Quinn goes in search of Santana. She bumps into Mercedes along the way.
"Hey girl, are you enjoying yourself?" Mercedes asks.
"I am. Diva this house is amazing," Quinn states.
"Thank you. I work hard and deserve to treat myself," Mercedes says.
"That you do," Quinn agrees.
She notices some one approaching over the woman's shoulder. She grins when Sam Evans gets closer into view. He's motioning for Quinn to be quiet so that he can sneak up on his unsuspecting girlfriend.
"I'll have to give you the grand tour before you leave," Mercedes offers.
Sam smoothly slides his arms around Mercedes waist and places a gentle kiss to her neck.
"Is it just me or do you get more and more beautiful every time I come home?" he murmurs in her ear.
"Baby!" Mercedes exclaims.
She turns and plants a juicy kiss on his lips. Quinn just looks on and smiles. It makes her happy to see, that after all this time, Sam and Mercedes still behave like two people who are newly in love. It renews her faith in the whole notion of finding and sustaining a lasting relationship. The kisses start to get a little more languid, the pair oblivious to the fact that Quinn is still there. She looks away, shifting uncomfortably. When the kissing leads to some groping, Quinn clears her throat loudly to get their attention.
"Sorry to interrupt this lovely reunion, but I was actually looking for Santana," she trails off.
"Last I saw her, she was down by the pool house," Mercedes says.
She points her in the right direction and Quinn quickly makes her exit. She spots a flash of yellow and smiles when she sees Santana's silhouette. As she gets closer, her smile quickly fades when she sees Santana is not alone. She's talking to Brittany and it looks like it isn't a friendly discussion.
"I can't believe you brought her to Mercedes party knowing I was going to be here. You're trying to make me jealous aren't you?" Brittany fumes.
Quinn slows her pace hoping to overhear as much of the conversation as she can.
"Trust and believe that you are not a part of my decision making process Brittany, so don't flatter yourself. Besides, Quinn was invited. She would have been here either way."
"Why would Mercedes invite her? Are you guys already that serious that you're introducing her to our friends?" Brittany accuses.
"They were already friends. She and Mercedes go way back," Santana says.
"How far?" Brittany asks.
"Apparently longer than she's known us."
Brittany huffs, not liking Santana's answer by having to accept it.
"Ok but that still doesn't explain why you two showed up together," she says.
"Brittany, I don't know how many times you need to hear it to be able to understand, but I no longer have to explain myself to you," Santana points out.
Brittany softens her stance, knowing that fighting with Santana will get her nowhere. She tries a different approach.
"Baby you have made your point ok. I get it. You win. I'll do whatever it is you want me to do," Brittany pleads.
Brittany inches closer to Santana. She places a stray hair behind Santana's ear and allows her fingers to linger. All Quinn sees is red. How dare Brittany touch her Santana.
"There you are San. I've been looking all over for you," Quinn announces.
She steps into view and walks directly in the midst of them, effectively putting space between Brittany and Santana. Quinn leans in and places a kiss on the confused woman's cheek. Did Quinn just call her San? She was pretty sure that the blonde had never been so familiar with her in all the time they spent together.
"Hello Brittany, I didn't even notice you there. How lovely to see you again," Quinn says sweetly.
"Quinn," Brittany says flatly.
"Sweetie, I was wondering if you could give me the grand tour you promised. Mercedes is otherwise occupied," Quinn says.
Santana hesitates at the use of the endearment.
"Of, of course," she stutters.
Quinn happily takes the arm Santana offers to her. She hooks her own arm through Santana's and gives Brittany a smug smile.
"Brittany if you'll excuse us," Santana says.
"It was nice seeing you again Brittany," Quinn says a little too cheerily.
Brittany eyes shoot daggers at Quinn. Quinn is so giddy that she has pushed the other woman's buttons. She almost wants to stick her tongue out at her in victory.
"Quinn," Brittany says in a cutting tone.
The two wander around for a while, Santana pointing out things here and there. The pair eventually find themselves on a bench in Mercedes' flower garden. They sit quietly, enjoying the sights and the sounds. Santana seems to be enjoying the silence, but Quinn is chomping at the bit. She's eager to know more about Santana's relationship with Brittany.
"So what's the story with you and Brittany?" Quinn asks.
Santana sighs, not knowing where to begin with her and Brittany's long checkered past.
"Brittany and I met on Mercedes' tour. I was a backup singer. She was one of the dancers."
Quinn nods, now understanding the Brittany and Mercedes connection.
"We became instant friends. It was almost kind of surreal the way we immediately connected. I'd never had that with anyone else up until that point."
Quinn watches while Santana gathers her thoughts.
"I had started developing feelings for her and it scared the hell out of me. For one, I had never been in love before. On top of all of that, I didn't even know if Brittany was gay. So one night, we got drunk off of our asses and I told her I was falling in love with her."
"I'm guessing she took that information well," Quinn comments.
"Better than I expected. She leaned in and kissed me. The moment our lips touched, it was like my body had come alive for the very first time."
Quinn nods again, completely understanding how a kiss can awaken parts of you that were lying dormant.
"We made love that night and were a couple from that point on."
"So what happened?" Quinn asks.
Santana gives a sardonic laugh.
"Hell, what didn't happen? We were young. Still trying to establish our careers and who we were as people. Then there was all the temptation around us. We were in a different city almost every night. It was so easy to find someone to lose yourself in for the evening."
"And you guys did?" Quinn questions.
"I didn't. The bevy of beautiful women never phased me. All I could see was Brittany. She was enough to fulfill and satisfy me. I wish the same was true for her."
Santana swallows hard, trying to control the feelings this conversation is bringing up.
"I kind of already knew about the other women. When we first started dating, we would sleep together every night. Then all of a sudden, there would be nights she wouldn't answer her cell. Or she'd make a lame excuse about not feeling well and wanting to be alone. I'd managed to talk myself into being okay with it. I thought Brittany was my soul mate. So I didn't mind if she needed to sow her wild oats first."
"What changed?" Quinn probes.
"Artie."
"As in our director?" Quinn asks.
"One and the same."
"Shit," she mumbles.
"I know right. I could handle Brittany sleeping with other women. At least I still had a fighting chance. But a man, how was I supposed to compete with a man."
"So she left you for Artie, but they aren't together anymore. So what happened there?"
"Artie had promised her a part in his new movie. He told her he was going to make her Angelina famous. Then he got in the accident that put him in a wheel chair. His career went off its trajectory and she moved on to the next best thing."
"That's a pretty asshole move of her," Quinn remarks.
Santana doesn't respond. She's lost in all the old pain that she thought had long died away.
"It's pretty obvious that she still wants to be with you," Quinn states.
"She and I would hookup every couple of months or so. We would run into each other at a club or an event and the fireworks would go off between us. We'd spend days on end in bed. She would promise me she had changed and that she wanted to try again. Then we'd get into an argument and she was back to needing to be free. I put my foot down six months ago and haven't seen her in that way since."
Quinn is a bit relieved at Santana's confession. After hearing their history, Quinn knows that Brittany would definitely be an even greater obstacle to getting closer to Santana.
"The worst part of it all is that I lost my best friend. Don't get me wrong, Mercedes is my girl and Dice is like my right hand man, but I've never had anyone get me like Brittany does. It sucks that I got my heart broken and lost my other half all in one fell swoop."
"I'm so sorry Santana," Quinn coos.
Quinn rubs her hand up and down Santana's back, trying to offer some comfort.
"I say that I've moved on, but til this day, what she did still haunts me. That's why I don't take making a commitment lightly. Things like truthfulness and fidelity are important to me. That's also why I'm completely honest with you and asks full disclosure in return. Secrets and lies are the fastest way to tank a relationship."
Quinn swallows the lump in her throat. She feels even more guilty about hiding her break up from Santana. She would hate for her to hear it from someone else first.
"Santana there's something I've been meaning to tell you," Quinn starts.
"There you are!" Mercedes exclaims.
Quinn sighs at her missed opportunity. She'll have to find another time to confess to Santana.
"I've been looking everywhere for you guys," Mercedes says.
"What's up Cedes?" Santana asks.
"The band is fired up and ready to go. I was hoping that a certain pop sensation would sing a little something for us," she replies.
"I don't think you can afford me," Santana jokes.
"Ha! I could buy and sell your ass five times over. Now come get on stage before I tell my momma that you're not playing nicely," Mercedes threatens
The idea of being ratted out to Mrs. Jones is enough motivation to get both women moving. They quickly head back in the fray, each with a lot more on their minds.
...
The party carries on with the same jovial mood in the air. The alcohol is flowing and the atmosphere is loosing up. Everyone is smiling and just generally having a good time. Throughout the evening, Santana and Quinn share little glances and smiles. They dance and make each other laugh. They sit as close to each other as possible without actually touching. Every chance they get, one is removing something from the other's face. Or moving a stray hair back in place. Any excuse to make physical contact. Mercedes and Mrs. Jones give each other a knowing look, trying to figure out who Quinn and Santana think they are fooling. Quinn even manages to sneak in some one in one time with Dice. She discovers that Santana's cousin is just as charming as Santana is.
As promised Santana does a song for everyone. After warming the crowd up nicely, a few of the other guest do a number as well. The barbecue soon turns into a spontaneous concert. It isn't long before everyone is demanding Mercedes to sing. After much cajoling, she finally takes the stage.
"Now before I sing for you all, first I want to thank everyone for coming out. I planned this little get together as a celebration. It's been so long since so many people that I love and care about have been in the same place at the same time. I wanted the opportunity for all of us to get together."
Everyone applauds and whistles their approval.
"Secondly, I wanted to have a little something to congratulate my man on becoming the new face of Armani. Come on up here baby," Mercedes says.
Sam approaches the stage to another round of applause and well wishes.
"Thank you Mercy. You're truly are too good to me. I'm glad that you were able to get so many people we love together today because I have one more thing we need to celebrate."
Sam takes Mercedes' hand and drops to one knee.
"Anybody who knows me, knows I come from humble beginnings. I'm not the the richest man in the world or the handsomest. I can be a little dense sometimes and I'm not always quick on the uptake. But none of those things ever mattered to you. You always could see who I really was, the important parts of me. And when you find someone who gets you and brings out the best in you, you hold on to that. I guess I've said all of that, to say this. Mercedes Jones, will you marry me?"
He reaches in his pocket and pulls out a stunning ten karat diamond ring. Mercedes doesn't hesitate for a second.
"Yes!" she screams.
Sam puts the ring on her finger and kisses her softly. Mr. and Mrs. Jones rush the stage to congratulate the newly engaged couple. Quinn reaches over and grabs Santana's hand, communicating her joy for their friends. Santana tries to discreetly wipe away a tear that has trickled down her cheek. Mrs. Jones shoos everyone off stage and takes the mic.
"It's going to be hard to follow an act like that, but I'll give it a try. Sam you have been good to my baby since day one. You bring out the best in her as well. I can't wait for you to officially become a part of our family. This song is for you," Mrs. Jones says.
She starts the opening lines of Aretha Franklin's 'Natural Woman'. Quinn gets chills and is instantly transported back to her childhood. She remembers waking up Saturday mornings to the smell of breakfast and Mrs. Jones singing along to the record player. Santana runs her thumb across the back of Quinn's hand as they sway to the music. Mrs. Jones brings the house down with her rendition. Not too long after, the party starts to wind down. Santana motions to Quinn asking if she's ready to leave. They head over to tell Mercedes and her parents goodbye. They both lean in and give Mr. Jones a hug.
"Lucy don't be a stranger now, you hear?" he instructs.
"Yes Poppa Jones."
Mrs. Jones gives both of them a hug. She steps back to look at them better with a hand still firmly placed on either of their cheeks.
"Lucy you two look good together," she says.
"Momma Jones please," Santana begs.
"What? All I'm saying is that I'm not the only one who notices that you two make a striking pair," she explains.
"Duly noted," Quinn replies.
They hug Mercedes and congratulate her and Sam again. Mercedes and Mrs. Jones watch them as they try their hardest to appear friendly. Their hands are still loosely linked as they make their way to Santana's car.
"They are not fooling anybody," Mrs. Jones mutters.
...
Santana arrives at Quinn's bungalow later that evening.
"I had a really good time tonight," Quinn says.
"Ain't no party like a Mercedes Jones party," Santana starts.
"Cause a Mercedes Jones party don't stop," Quinn finishes.
The two laugh at their level of dorkiness. They fall back into a comfortable silence. The vibe that had been growing between them all afternoon is even more palpable. They hadn't stopped touching since they had gotten in the car. Santana drove the entire way back with Quinn casually playing with the hair at the nape of her neck. She grabs Quinn's hand, pressing Quinn's knuckles to her lips.
"Walk you to you're door?" Santana asks.
Quinn nods yes and the two get out of the car. No words are spoken as they journey to the front door. Just the occasional 'not so accidental' accidental brushing of shoulders. Santana stands behind Quinn as she fumbles with her keys. She goes to place the key in the lock and almost drops them when she feels Santana pressing up against her.
"Quinn turn around," Santana murmurs.
She takes a deep breath and tries to steady her shaking hands. She turns to find herself trapped between Santana and the front door. Santana has placed her hands against the door on either side of Quinn's head. Santana's eyes are low and heavy with desire. Quinn can feel her heart rate speeding up and the butterflies starting to flutter again. Their faces are barely an inch apart. Santana's eyes search hers, silently asking a question.
"I'm going to kiss you now," Santana whispers.
Quinn can feel her legs quiver at the moment Santana's lips make contact with hers. She remembers the last time they kissed. This time is nothing like that. Their first encounter was frantic and rough. This experience is something akin to a reacquaintance. Santana is kissing her slowly, savoring every movement. Quinn is lost in Santana's taste. Santana lightly sucks on Quinn's bottom lip, enjoying the feel of it in her mouth. Her tongue plays along Quinn's lips, asking for entrance. Quinn eagerly accepts and they both moan at the first touch. She cups Santana's face, pulling her in deeper. Their tongues perform a sensual dance, advancing and retreating. Fighting a battle that both are the victor of. Quinn can quickly feel herself starting to get out of control. She had swore to herself that she wasn't going to get intimately involved with Santana again. Not at least until she knew what the younger woman's intentions were. That pledge is fading farther and farther into the back of her consciousness. Santana kisses her for what seems like forever, when she finally pulls back to take a breath. Quinn has never been more grateful for the need to intake oxygen. In about two more minutes, Santana would've been able to talk her into anything.
"Quinn?" Santana breathes out.
"Yeah."
"I'll see you at work on Monday."
Quinn's eyes flutter open and she takes in the cocky grin on Santana's face. She has been played. She lets out a soft chuckle.
"Drive safely Santana."
Santana backs away slowly, never breaking eye contact. Quinn waits at her door until she's sure Santana has driven away.
"I am in so much trouble," she mumbles to herself.