Disclaimer: I do not own Glee or any of its characters.

Chapter 14: Facing some hard truths

"What do you mean you were let go from Fanny Girl? When did this happen?"

"This afternoon; I can't believe they were been so unreasonable. I did nothing wrong."

"Apparently you did something to piss off the Producers. Tell us what happen?" Mercedes was pretty sure it was all Rachel's fault. Now that she was no longer in her nice little bubble that Mr. Schue had created for her; she would be getting a lot of tough love from the real world. She would learn that talent is only half the battle.

Rachel rolled her eyes. "You guys know that I am all about putting on a great show and giving 100%. Well when I saw that some of the cast was lacking that dedication I felt it was my duty as the star to point this out to the Director. I guess it got back to the cast, and there has been some tension with our relationships."

"So they let you go because the cast didn't like you?"

"No. Yesterday I made a suggestion about this girl that is tone death, and dances like a horse with 4 left hooves. Turns out she is dating one of the Producers, and he didn't appreciate my comments. The Director said he tried to fight for me, but he couldn't change their minds."

"I am sure that is not the reason they gave you. Why did they say they were letting you go?" Santana asked because she knew there had to be more to the story.

"They said that they were getting a lot of complaints from the Director and cast."

"I thought you said the Director fought for you?" Sam asked in confusion.

"That's what he told me. So I went to the Producers to try and change their minds. That's when they said the Director found me difficult to work with because I was always questioning the direction he was taking the play in, and they said the cast felt I was stuck up and thought myself to be better than them."

"So who told you about the Producer's girlfriend?"

"The costume designer was this great woman who really appreciated my talent. She and I hit it off. When she found out I was let go she called me and told me about the Producers girlfriend."

Mercedes felt bad for her friend, but Rachel had brought this on herself. "I'm sorry Rachel I know you were hoping this would be your big break."

"It still will be. Do you think your Mother would represent me if I sue them for unjust firing?"

"She can't practice law in New York. She would have to pass the bar, but I can give her a call to see if you have a case, and if she can recommend a lawyer."

"Thanks Mercedes. I am sure I can get my role back."

Mercedes doubt it. New York is an "At Will state" so the Producers could let her go for the smallest infraction. Being that Rachel had ticked off most of the cast and the Director; the Producers would have a solid case and could say that Rachel was hindering the quality and production of the play. Rachel would learn the hard way that the Rachel Berry show didn't get picked up in New York.

-It had to be said –

"Hi Derek; hi Val, thank you for meeting me before we start dance practice."

"No problem Mercedes." Derek was disappointed to see Val. He was hoping to get some alone time with her.

"So guys I need to talk to you both about something that was recently brought to my attention. It's a hard conversation because I like you guys and I don't want to hurt your feelings."

Val frowned. "What would hurt our feelings? Aren't you happy with our work?"

"Oh yes; you guys are awesome. I am learning so much from you both. I know with both of you at my side my videos and tours will be incredible."

"Then what is this about?"

"Well you guys remember my friend Santana that came to one of the rehearsals?"

"Yeah what about her?"

"She's not just my friend. She's also our roommate. So when she went home later that day she told my boyfriend that you two were interested in me."

Derek looked at Val to see his reaction. He didn't look uncomfortable. Derek wasn't either. He was glad it was out in the open so he could make his claim. He really liked Mercedes and could see a future with her. Yeah she has a boyfriend and he normally didn't creep on other dudes women, but there was just something special about her, and he couldn't pass her up.

"So that's why your boyfriend showed up the other day?"

"Yes. Later that evening when we got home he pulled me aside and pretty much said the same thing that Santana had said. I told him he was crazy, and that it wasn't true. My baby knows me really well and knew that it would take more than his and Santana's opinion. So he showed me a tape of the rehearsal and although I find it hard to believe it is clear that you both seem to like me." Mercedes blushed as she looked down at her shoes. She felt awkward in admitting that two hot guys could want her; the fat girl from Lima Ohio.

"I don't deny it. I find you incredibly sexy, and your body drives me crazy, but I take it you don't feel the same way." Val said with disappointment. He really wanted her, but she wasn't ready to let go of her little boyfriend.

"I would love a chance to get to know you better and see if we could make a go at it, but yeah I guess you are afraid to try something new. I understand sticking with the old and familiar. It's scary going after the unknown."

Oh hell to the no. Derek did not just try to throw shade on her relationship with Sam. "Uh no I am not settling. Sam is the love of my life. We started dating at the end of my junior year of high school, and I knew from the first time we danced that he was the guy I wanted to spend the rest of my life with."

"High school sweethearts; that's even worst. You haven't been out there. How do you know if something better isn't around the corner if you aren't willing to look?"

"And that right there is why most men cheat. You need to learn to appreciate what you have and not worry about what you're missing out on."

"Sam's a good looking guy in the big city. You think he's not going to go looking?" Derek hated to loose. He needed her to see reason.

"I hope not, but I do know that he makes me happy, and until he gives me a reason to look elsewhere I am staying with him. Sam is a romantic and like me he knows that we are each other's endgame."

Val shook his head because he doubt Sam would stay faithful. "Well for your sake I hope you're right."

"Don't worry about it. What I need from you two is to respect my relationship and to keep this working relationship professional. No more giving me looks, and touching my body inappropriately. If you can do that great; if not I will see if other arrangements can be made. Think about it and let me know. I'm going to go get changed."

Mercedes left them in a huff. The nerve of them going after Sam. Although she was angry she hoped they could keep it professional. They are great at what they do, and in turn would make her great. When she went back in to the room both Derek and Val were waiting for her.

"We can keep it professional." Derek said.

"But if he fucks up, just remember you got two guys willing and able." Val said with a sexy smile.

Oh dear Lord give me strength thought Mercedes as she smile back at them.

Hello my lovely followers. Sorry it has been a while since I have posted anything. Hope you like this latest chapter. Up next the wedding proposal. Please forgive any grammatical errors, and leave a review. XOXO.