Rachel's dads already expected her home late because of the game, and an extra few minutes for a massage wouldn't be noticed. Puck's mom was working and Sarah was spending the night at a friend's. So he drove Rachel straight to his house to cash in on Rachel's appreciation for being an awesome boyfriend. He led her up to his room and could tell that she was nervous, which he thought was kinda weird considering how many times she'd been there and what they'd done before—far more than a simple back rub. "What's wrong, baby?"
"Performance anxiety, I suppose," Rachel answered. "I dislike not being good at things. This is something I might not be good at doing."
"Rachel Berry with performance anxiety?" he joked. She didn't laugh, so he continued, "You do great things with those cute little hands of yours. Trust me—you'll be awesome at this." He pulled off his shirt and plopped face down on his bed. "Ok, go ahead."
Rachel gaped at him. "I need directions or something!"
Puck rolled over on his side to face her, propping up his head with one hand and patting the bed with the other. "Ok, sit here next to me, and I'll start talking you through it," he grinned. He couldn't believe she was taking this so seriously, but it was Rachel after all. She was quirky, but he dug that about her.
Every time Noah was shirtless, Rachel drank in the sight of him, and this time was no exception. It took her a moment to collect herself and sit next to him on the bed. God, he was so beautiful! Even when he turned back over so that she could massage his back, she could still admire his broad, muscular shoulders, the way his waist tapered to his narrow hips, the rise of his… Rachel cleared her throat and tried to focus on giving a good massage. "Where should I start?" she asked him.
"Umm...shoulders and neck. Just use both hands and start rubbing—do what you think would feel good if it were you and you had to hit the skins and swing a big ol' bat around all week," he directed. He was referring to his drumming and baseball practice, but his words sounded like innuendos.
But Rachel tried to do as he asked. "You can press harder," he told her. Rachel gave a huff of frustration.
"I can't apply pressure evenly sitting at this angle!"
"Then straddle me," Puck said simply. Easy solution.
"What? Where?" she squeaked.
Puck chuckled. "My ass. Just sit your little self down below my hips. It's no big deal."
…Mature scene…
So Rachel did. It's not as if he wasn't wearing his warm-up pants. He was only shirtless. And sure, Rachel was wearing a skirt, but he was her boyfriend, with whom she'd shared very intimate moments, and he asked for a massage. She wasn't sure why she was making such a big deal out of it, so she just sucked in her breath and continued admiring him as she rubbed her hands along his shoulder blades, his neck. She gently massaged his scalp, and he let out a sigh.
"Mmm. This is like that time when you washed the slushy out of my hair at school. Remember?"
"I remember," Rachel said softly, as she continued her circular motions.
"You were really good at that. I wanted you so badly that day."
"And now?" She realized what it sounded like she was asking him. "I mean, does it feel good now?"
"Yeah, Rach, it feels really good."
His affirmations helped her feel confident that giving a massage wasn't so hard. She used her fingernails to scratch his scalp a bit, and he sighed appreciatively. Then Rachel moved back to rub along his neck and shoulders. He made a few moans, which let her know she was doing it right. She worked her way down his lower back, following the line of his spine, making her way to rub his muscular hips, and in the process Rachel's eyes widened as she realized she was becoming aroused… That wasn't part of her plan. She tried to keep going and ignore the heat building between her thighs, the swelling she could feel pulsing there. But as she worked her way along his back, she realized she was rubbing herself against him (!) from her prime location on his firm, round… She felt a bit embarrassed by her brazenness. Rachel decided she had no choice but to own up to her shameful behavior. "Noah, you're so…sexy," she whispered to him, leaning down to reach his ear. Her body was flush against his. "I don't know if I can keep this up without…going farther than intended."
Puck flipped over, grabbing Rachel in the process. "Hey, there's no such thing as too far! I have no problems with a happy ending," he grinned. Rachel was now straddling him from the front, and as if on cue, she felt the beginnings of his erection.
"Are you sure you don't mind? I was trying to show you I care about you in a nonsexual way. I'm just so… attracted to you. You're so…beautiful. I don't know a better word to describe it; I'm sorry if it's not manly enough. In any case, I can't help myself," Rachel said, biting her lip in her nervous habit.
Puck thought it was so hot that she was worried about that. "It's me. Of course I don't mind if my sexy girlfriend wants to get me in the sack. I'm a stud. It's natural." Puck missed seeing Rachel roll her eyes at his comment because he pulled her into a kiss. It actually felt nice that she appreciated his body, strange as it might sound. He took pride in keeping himself in top physical condition, but it felt good to know that she liked it and cared about his feelings. He remembered when he first decided to seduce cougars, he went on a strict diet to make his muscles really stick out (yams only and limited water—basically if you dehydrate yourself, he'd learned, your skin pulls really tight over the muscles). It was almost worth it, but then he was exhausted and painfully thirsty after sex. So he hadn't been dehydrating himself for sake of his appearance, just working out, and she still thought he looked good. A definite plus and a huge turn on. He chuckled when Rachel began tugging at the waistband of his pants impatiently, and laughed when she gasped at the realization that he hadn't been wearing underwear (again). "Nothin' new, babe," he smirked.
Rachel laughed too. Then she smiled softly, seductively even, and leaned into him. "I think I should finish that massage." Straddling him again, she began rubbing his chest, then his shoulders. He let out another soft moan. Well Puck wasn't about to argue with that. If she was going to forget that she probably should get home soon, he wasn't going to waste this opportunity by reminding her!
"Feels good," he said, closing his eyes. He felt her remove her hands, but when he opened his eyes he saw she was removing her shirt. So he helped her by taking off her bra.
She worked both hands to massage his right arm, down to massage his palm, then each finger, pressing on the nail as she released.
Puck thought that was just what he needed, and then his eyelids flew open when he felt her suck on his index finger, nibbling at the end.
"Holy shit," he muttered. "That is so hot."
"Hmm," was Rachel's response, as she continued the action to finish his hand. She knew that he'd be ready for her to move on to perform a similar maneuver elsewhere. And the pulsing in her core told her she was ready too. She lavished attention on him, as he had done for her so many times before.
And when he finally entered her, she thought her heart would burst and her soul would leave her shuddering body.
…End Mature Scene…
Rachel was late getting home.
But it was so worth it.
…
May, Junior Year
The McKinley baseball players were heading up to the field for practice. Puck was telling Finn about his minor problem, while avoiding saying too much. He and Finn were fairly good friends again, but Finn and Rachel were good friends too, so Puck had to be careful. "So, I want to talk to that Jesse guy about what I heard in Florida. About the spy stuff. But I don't know his last name. You don't happen to remember it, do you? Or did you keep the program from Nationals? I bet his name is there."
"I don't remember his last name. He challenged me to a singing contest last year, though," Finn shook his head at the memory. "I just called him The Douche in my head."
"Yeah, me too," said Puck. "And you didn't keep a program, did you?"
"No, I was too busy thinking about Quinn and stuff I guess." Finn shrugged.
"Me too. I mean about Rachel though. I'm saying I had other stuff on my mind at the time than souvenirs."
"I get it," Finn gave a half-smile.
"Well, shit. I don't wanna ask Rachel about it and upset her," Puck said.
"What are you whining about now, Puck?" Azimio asked. He was also one of the guys who played football and baseball.
"Dude, I'm not whining. I'm trying to figure out how to find out details on this guy Rachel dated last year. I need to find him. All I know is his first name and that he goes to Carmel. So yeah, not whining."
"Whatever, man," Azimio scoffed. "You wanna know details on the guy, ask your girl. Stop being a pussy about it just because you're whipped. Man up. Ask her. Then go kick the guy's ass. Simple—if you're not a pussy."
Puck glared at his teammate, but then answered, "Maybe you've got a point. I'll just ask her. If she won't tell me, I'll find some other way. Thanks, I guess, for the advice."
"Yeah, man," Azimio nodded. "Next time you need lessons on being badass, let me know. I'll see if I can refresh your memory."
Puck was saved from punching Azimio by Coach Tanaka calling them into the dugout.
…
They were studying for finals on Rachel's bed when Puck thought he'd be smooth and catch her while she was distracted by her work. "So, what's Jesse's last name?"
"St. James," Rachel answered without thinking. "Funny you should ask. He called me up out of the blue the other day." Then she narrowed her eyes and looked at Puck. "Wait, why do you ask?"
Puck was still steaming over the idea that El Doucherino had actually called Rachel, but he now he had to come up with the answer of why he asked. Puck hadn't thought this through. He tried to conceal the look of terror on his face. "Just curious."
"Curious, why? What are you going to do?"
"Nothing. What can I do with his last name? I'm just testing a theory." A theory he just pulled out of his ass upon hearing that fruit-tard's last name.
"Oh, do enlighten me," Rachel said, facing him.
"Uh, ok," he said a bit nervously, then he looked at her confidently. His theory kicked ass. "I think that you were all about Finn and Jesse but ready to break up with me right away last year because the names Rachel Hudson and Rachel St. James sound better in lights over Broadway than Rachel Puckerman." Puck was pleased with his half-assed theory that would keep Rachel from prying into the real reason he wanted Jesse's last name, until the look on Rachel's face made him realize what he just said. Shit. Her eyes got really big and black, then she started smiling—one of the smiles that's so wide he thought her face might split in two—beautiful, but a shitload of scary was behind that smile too.
Rachel couldn't contain her smile, even as she denied the accusation. "While you have a point regarding the way the names sound, I've always intended to use Rachel Berry as my stage name, or perhaps Rachel Marie. I have no need to take my future husband's name into consideration."
"Ok, Berry, we're just seventeen, you know?" Puck couldn't believe he'd mentioned anything close to marriage!
"I'm aware of our ages, Noah," Rachel said seriously. And that freaked him the fuck out. Then Rachel shoved him playfully and smiled. "Don't be silly. I'm not planning our wedding or anything."
"Oh, thank God," Puck sighed.
"I'll leave that to your mother," Rachel said, turning back to her books, a small smile on her face.
…
Puck was shaken, but pleased that his diversion had worked to take Rachel's focus away from his evil plan to track down Jesse St. James and confront his ass. He decided that he could still keep his evil villain status based on this stroke of quick thinking; rather than being reduced to henchman status for poor planning. So he proceeded to his next step. This required his personal charm, so he hoped there would be a girl working in the attendance office at Carmel High. He could maybe pull the same thing over on a gay kid, but he cringed to think about it. And to get to Carmel to get Jesse's address, he'd have to skip half the day at school, but he thought it was worth it.
Fortunately for Puck, before he left school, he had computer lab third period, and he had another (delayed) stroke of genius. Maybe there wouldn't be very many people with the last name St. James in Carmel, so he'd use the White Pages online first. As luck would have it, there were only two listings for St. James, so Puck wrote down the addresses and phone numbers of both, and was saved from skipping the rest of the school day.
He could move on to part three of his plan right away. Another diversion for Rachel.
So Puck caught up with Finn.
…
"Wait, you want me to take Rachel out? Dude, are you feeling ok?"
"Not on a date, obviously, dicklet," Puck rolled his eyes. "I just need you to do one of those friend date things you do, so I can take care of some business without Rachel getting all worried."
Finn narrowed his eyes. "I don't like the sound of that. You better not be screwing around on Rachel."
"Fuck no!" Puck protested. "There's absolutely no problem in that department, you know?"
Finn winced. He still didn't like to think about Puck with Rachel. Puck was so…Puck, and Rachel was so…Rachel. "Well, I'm not going to agree to this unless I know what you're up to."
"Ok…" Puck said conspiratorially, "but you can't tell Rachel."
"I won't lie to her," Finn said firmly.
"Fine. Just don't mention it. And if she directly asks you what I'm doing, then you have my permission to tell her about my last fight at fight club."
"Ok, that sounds fair," Finn replied.
"Awesome. So ask her to do something after school on Friday, and I'll owe you one."
"How many do you owe me now, Puck?" Finn asked pointedly.
"I guess you have a free pass for a long time, man, a long time."
…
Friday immediately after school, Puck made the drive to Carmel. He called the two phone numbers for St. James on the way and figured out the correct address. And he was lucky enough to pull up to the house just as Jesse was pulling into his driveway.
"Hey, Jesse, over here," Puck called from his truck. And damned if Jesse didn't saunter on over. Like a lamb to the slaughter. Puck stepped into the street, then over to the sidewalk.
"Puck, right?" Jesse asked curiously. "What can I do for you? Are you upset that I called Rachel? I just wanted to tell her that I'm moving to New York after graduation."
"I want to talk about what I overheard at Nationals. About how Shelby made you try to get with Rachel."
"Coach Corcoran didn't really make me do anything. But your Coach Sylvester got to her, and she suggested that I could be of help. And I wanted to be a team player, you know? But then, I started to really like Rachel. She's one in a million. Really talented."
"And does Rachel know all this? About the spying?" Puck asked.
"I doubt it. But I'd be happy to explain the situation, if that's what you came here to ask. What did you come here for, specifically?"
"Specifically? To ask you that and to tell you that Rachel is with me, so give it up. I don't trust you, so I want you to stop calling her, stop messing with her head."
"I think Rachel can make her own decisions. I'm pretty sure she'll want to talk to me about certain music-related topics. Especially now that I'll be heading off to the Great White Way. Face it, you're not Broadway material," said Jesse.
"No shit, Sherlock. I'm not planning on being a gay Broadway star." Puck said sourly.
"Exactly. I'm not trying to be a jerk, I'm just stating facts."
"I guess being a jerk just comes naturally," Puck sneered.
"I suppose you're right," Jesse replied seriously. "Look, this is my senior year," he started.
Puck interrupted. "I thought you were a senior last year."
"Yeah, it's the Carmel High five-year plan for Vocal Adrenaline. Anyway, this is my last month in Lima, then I'll be going off to New York to make it big. You can have Rachel for one more year. But then she'll be following me to Broadway, and you'll be left in Ohio."
"I'll go to New York with her—there's more than Broadway in New York."
"Of course there is," Jesse said condescendingly. "But something will happen. You'll get that football scholarship to OSU. No wait, that's ridiculous." Jesse ignored Puck's scowl. "Still, even if you do follow Rachel to New York, you'll be powerless to stop the inevitable. I'll be the hot male lead. She'll be the stunning young starlet. Everyone will root for us to become a couple. We'll share an onstage kiss. You'll get jealous. Question her. She'll get upset. And she'll come to me for comfort. And then, I'll be the one she chooses." Jesse was very satisfied with his tale of the future.
He didn't even register Puck's fist flying at his face until it was too late. Jesse heard the sound of flesh and bone, and absently thought that the movie sound effects were fairly accurate. Then the pain flared across his face and his thoughts were muddled for a few seconds.
"You stay the fuck away from Rachel," Puck growled menacingly.
"Did you have to go for the face?" Jesse whined, nursing his jaw. His head was beginning to clear even though his whole head felt like it was pulsing with pain. He thought he could feel the swelling start already.
"Yep. You fucking deserve it." He had to punch that smug look off the bastard's face. It was unavoidable.
"Well, let's call a truce. I'll leave Rachel alone for now. I'm confident I'll catch up with her in New York. And after what I saw of her in Florida, I can tell that ass is worth the wait." Ok, maybe Jesse's head wasn't completely clear because after the words left his mouth, he knew he shouldn't have said them.
Puck punched him again, twice in the gut, then another blow that glanced off Jesse's ribs as he went down. "You asked for it, but I spared your face, fuckwad." Puck figured if he broke any bones, this douchebag would sue him or some stupid shit like that. But if he just bruised him up a bit, he'd probably let it go. "And if you don't stay away from Rachel, I won't be so generous."
Split knuckles never felt so good, Puck thought as he left Jesse doubled-over on the sidewalk.
…
Rachel was enjoying her time at the mall with Finn to help him pick something for his mom for Mother's Day. She felt only a slight twinge of sadness for the fact that she didn't have mother to spend the holiday with, but she was grateful for her loving fathers. They stopped at coffee bar for a pick-me-up, when Finn asked, "So…does Quinn ever talk to you about me?"
"I'm sorry, Finn we don't really talk about those sorts of things when we're together."
"But you two talk about him, don't you?"
"N-Puck?" Rachel squeaked.
"No! The singer. Whatshisname."
"Oh, Josh. Well, not really, lately. Mostly Quinn and I just do our homework together while we listen to the band practice. Is that why you asked me to meet you today, Finn? To ask me about Quinn?"
"Uh, kinda, but not really. And Puck said if you asked me I didn't have to lie. So the truth is that Puck asked me to distract you today while he went to his fight club for the last time. He said you'd probably worry and disapprove, but it was something he had to do one last time."
Rachel's brow furrowed in confusion. "Fight club? Is that a real thing?" Then she had an idea. "Finn, do you think fight club is a cover story too? To conceal, I mean hide, another reason why Puck might look like he got into a fight?"
This time Finn's brow furrowed. Rachel could almost see the gears turning in his head. She wished they'd hurry up; but she didn't want to chase the idea out of Finn's brain, so she sat quietly, waiting. "You know, you might be right, Rachel. Before Puck asked me to take you out, we were talking about how he could find out Jesse's last name. And then Azimio started ragging on him for being a pussy."
Rachel gasped, "I told him Jesse's last name! Oh that little devil!"
"So…you think Puck's going to fight Jesse?" Finn asked slowly.
"Yes, Finn, I do."
"What do you want to do about it?"
"I'm texting Jesse right now to warn him, then I'll text Puck to try to stop him," Rachel said, fingers flying furiously over her phone. Just as she was starting her message to Noah, she got a reply from Jesse.
"Too late," said his first message.
"He found me," said his second text. Rachel abandoned her message to Noah to call Jesse. Finn looked on, confused.
"What happened?" Rachel asked Jesse on the phone. Finn wasn't sure what to do. Was it impolite to sit there and listen, or was it worse to walk away? Surprisingly, he spotted Tina and Mercedes walking the mall corridor, so he motioned them over, then they all took seats next to Rachel's table. Finn told them that Rachel was talking to Jesse, so they should stick around to find out what was happening.
…
Jesse was thrilled to get Rachel's message and phone call. It couldn't have gone any better if he'd planned it. Well, he did have a swollen jaw and bruised ribs out of the deal, but otherwise, the outcome was pretty good. Puck may have won the battle, but he was definitely going to win the war, Jesse decided.
…
Rachel and Finn told the story they had pieced together with each other and with the added information Rachel had from her phone call with Jesse.
"So now, I just have to figure out what to say to Noah," Rachel sighed.
"What do you mean, girl?" Mercedes asked. "Maybe it's because I have older brothers, but I have to defend Puck on this one. It sounds to me like that boy did you a favor by giving that Jesse kid what he had coming to him. If Puck hadn't done it, I'd have taken Jesse to the carpet for sure!"
"But I don't want Noah to resort to violence to solve things. He could get in so much trouble! He could get suspended or Jesse could press charges for assault!"
"Well, that would be a douchey thing to do," commented Finn.
"Nevertheless, Jesse would be within his rights to do that," Rachel snapped back. Then she took a deep breath. "I'm sorry, Finn. I'm just upset. I don't want Noah to continue to make poor choices that could affect his potential in the future. Criminal charges and suspensions are not good things to have on one's record. He already has some issues with poor academic performance to contend with in order to get into college, and that's really the least of his worries if he continues to use violence."
"Maybe you should just explain that to Puck," said Tina, putting a hand on Rachel's shoulder. "Make him understand why you're upset and why it's important so he won't do it again."
"And then make him apologize," Mercedes added.
"Thanks, you guys," Rachel gave a small smile. "You've all be really great about this. I think I'm ready to go home now, Finn, if that's ok."
"Sure, Rach, no problem."
…
When Rachel got home, she still hadn't heard from Noah, but she had never messaged him either. She considered calling him, but decided it was good that she had some time to think on her own. Rachel thought about the various incarnations of her relationships with Noah Puckerman. She thought about all his traits—the ones that she loved and the ones that…needed improvement. She prepared to make a myspace video to express herself and help her explain things to Noah. After debating on the right song, she picked Yardley's Betting High.
Miles around, and not a thing
But my heart touched you
Prostrate down, discovering
A need for you
I've getting by
With no clue
Now I'm betting high
On you
Clear my head
And off to sleep
A spinning wheel
Am I dead?
A pale faced creep
Afraid to feel
I've getting by
With no clue
Now I'm betting high
On you
Why don't you take these things, all muddy brown?
I'm sick of this, I'm sick of this; it's where you are; ask around
Yeah—yeah
Hey, yeah. Uh-huh, yeah
I've getting by
With no clue
Now I'm betting high
On you
I've been doing fine
But who knew?
I'd be betting high
On you
Clear my head
And off to sleep…
Rachel blew a kiss at the end of the video and stopped the recording. It wasn't too long after she had uploaded it that she got a message from her boyfriend asking if he could come over. Of course she messaged he should—as soon as he watched her latest video on myspace. "It will facilitate the discussion," she typed to him.
…
Puck stood in her bedroom doorway, hands conveniently hidden in the pockets of his jeans. Rachel crossed her arms over her chest and tapped her toe on the carpet. "Well, what do you have to say?"
"Uh, I watched your video. So, you have to really spell it out for me. I don't know exactly what you mean by that one."
"Really? It wasn't clear?" Rachel frowned. "Well, I was thinking about a different song, so let's see if that one says it better."
"Does it have to be a song? You can't just talk?"
"I'd prefer to get my meaning across in song, and then hear your response. Your response can be in words instead of song though."
Puck just nodded his acquiescence and settled down on her bed, crossing his arms to subtly cover the minor damage on his knuckles.
Rachel set up her camera to record this performance too. No reason not to combine singing to Noah with her myspace obligations.
Puck heard the pop song begin and recognized it from his little sister's collection. He quirked an eyebrow at Rachel, "Seriously, Berry?"
"Shh. I'm recording this for myspace," she mouthed, pointing to the camera on the other side of the bed. And Rachel sang Miley Cyrus' "7 Things" to Puck (and her loyal myspace viewers).
I probably shouldn't say this
But at times I get so scared
When I think about the previous
Relationship we shared
It was awesome but we lost it
It's not possible for me, not to care
And now we're standing in the rain
But nothing's ever gonna change until you hear,
My dear
The 7 things I hate about you
The 7 things I hate about you, oh you
You're vain, your games, you're insecure
You love me, you like her
You make me laugh, you make me cry
I don't know which side to buy
Your friends, they're jerks
When you act like them, just know it hurts
I wanna be with the one I know
And the 7th thing I hate the most that you do
You make me love you
Rachel had gone from looking angry to biting her lip shyly. Puck wanted to get up and kiss her. Then she put her game face back on.
It's awkward and it's silent
As I wait for you to say
What I need to hear now
Your sincere apology
When you mean it, I'll believe it
If you text it, I'll delete it
Let's be clear
Oh, I'm not coming back
You're taking 7 steps here
Puck stood up and walked to her to say he was sorry, but she shoved him back down on the bed. She was surprisingly strong. (Hot!)
The 7 things I hate about you
You're vain, your games, you're insecure
You love me, you like her
You make me laugh, you make me cry
I don't know which side to buy
Your friends, they're jerks
When you act like them, just know it hurts
I wanna be with the one I know
And the 7th thing I hate the most that you do
You make me love you
Now Rachel was smiling brightly.
And compared to all the great things
That would take too long to write
I probably should mention
The 7 that I like
The 7 things I like about you
Your hair, your eyes, your old Levi's
When we kiss I'm hypnotized
You make me laugh, you make me cry
But I guess that's both I'll have to buy
Your hand in mine
When we're intertwined, everything's alright
I wanna be with the one I know
And the 7th thing I like the most that you do
You make me love you
You do…
This time Rachel didn't stop Puck from kissing her and apologizing. "Baby, I'm so sorry. I'm an idiot. I just love you so fucking much." He kissed her again, pulling Rachel down onto her bed with him. She melted momentarily.
"Wait, do you even know what I want you to apologize for?" Rachel asked.
"Yeah…" Puck said reluctantly. "I'm sorry I punched Jesse for being a spy and trying to worm his way into your pants."
"And?" asked Rachel expectantly.
Puck searched his brain. "And for being sneaky about it?"
Rachel nodded and Puck sighed with relief that he got it right. "Apology accepted. But you really do need to think about the consequences of your actions, Noah. What if you had gotten in trouble? You could jeopardize your future and everything we've been working toward this year!"
"What can I say? It took seventeen years to get this stupid," Puck said.
Rachel looked upset. "Please do not act so self-deprecating. You may have had made poor choices, but you most certainly are not stupid. In the future, however, please consult me rather than trying to pull something off behind my back."
"You're right. We probably could have come up with way better revenge together."
"Exactly. Wait, no." But Puck started kissing Rachel again, preventing coherent thoughts from forming and making their way from her brain to her mouth.
It wasn't until he had taken off his shirt and was starting on hers that Rachel realized the camera was still recording. "Oh, just let me turn off the camera."
Puck's eyes widened and he smiled wolfishly. "Leave it on."
"What?!"
"Just do it. We'll just watch it after. Just us. No myspace viewers or anything like that. Just for us."
"And then we'll delete immediately?"
"Sure. Well, you're going to save the song part right? You can just edit out our ending."
Rachel nodded reluctantly.
Puck racked his brain to figure out if he had some way to save the file before she deleted it. But those thoughts had to wait because he was about to co-star in a movie (!).
…
Rachel was relieved when they watched the recording and realized that they hadn't bothered to adjust the camera down towards the bed, so it was pointing above where they were most of the time. Most of the time. There were moments when one or both of them would enter the frame.
It was embarrassing.
And a little hot.
Mostly embarrassing.
Rachel also realized that she didn't have quite the in-depth discussion with Noah she had intended to have. She decided once again that the lesson would have to be delivered in small doses over time, with rewards to facilitate learning.
…
That Saturday, Puck arrived to pick Rachel up for the big "farewell concert" at The Tavern, as Josh had been calling it. He was not prepared for the sight of Rachel coming down the stairs. She was wearing a tiny dark denim mini-skirt, a purple blouse, and black heels. She carried a black sequined clutch with her. She had done her makeup a bit more dramatic than usual, with black eyeliner and a smoky eye, finished with glossy lips.
"Shit, Berry."
"What's wrong?"
"I just wasn't expecting to see you in a shorter skirt than usual."
"What? I'm just trying to look the part of the girl in the band."
"Uh-huh. You've got legs and guys've got eyes. Can you even sit without showing panty?"
"What panties?"
"Shit."
"I'm just teasing." Rachel swatted Puck.
"You're killing me just by what you wearing, no teasing required. You, wearing that tiny skirt with those fuck me heels, killing me."
"Those what? Never mind. Don't repeat that. Should I change?"
"No, are shitting me? You look totally hot. I just wouldn't mind if the rest of the world saw a little less of your hotness, but I'll deal."
"Good," Rachel smiled as they headed out the door. "I want to look good for you. I want to look like we belong together."
"We belong together, baby. No question."
…
Puck helped Rachel into his truck, checking out the view. Good, she was wearing panties. Bad that the world could totally see them. They were hot pink. He'd have to figure out how to set up the keyboards on stage so that the audience wouldn't get more of a show than they paid for, because, damn! As he drove, he mentally arranged the stage. The only thing he could come up with was to face the keyboard bench toward the drum kit, giving Trey the full access view. But that was better than the whole audience, he supposed. Shit.
They arrived and started setting up, with Rachel involved in sound check for the first time. She was a total diva about it too. Puck just smirked and shrugged. That was his girl.
Quinn was hanging out backstage, waiting for a chance to say hello to Josh and wish them all luck before the show. But to her disappointment, Josh seemed to be running around making sure everything was perfect, and all he did was give her a nod when he noticed her. He stayed on stage from sound check right up to the first song. Rachel told Quinn that Josh had been talking about this show forever and planning to get everything right, so she shouldn't feel bad that he didn't greet her properly.
"Oh, I guess I haven't been around at the practices enough to realize how important this show was to him compared to the other shows."
Rachel smiled. "Yes, he's been calling this show the 'Big Farewell Concert', and he keeps saying little things like 'Go big or go home'. It's been quite amusing."
The girls watched to show in silence, bobbing their heads along to the songs they liked. At the end of the set, Puck made an announcement. "Hey, everyone, thanks for coming out tonight! I'm going to take the lead vocals on this song, dedicated to my girl, Rachel. You Love Like Nobody Loves Me." Puck caught Rachel's eye and winked at her.
Quinn grabbed Rachel's hand and gave it a squeeze. "So romantic," she mouthed. Rachel used her other hand to fan herself in fake swooning (which mimicked her true emotions).
I'm a difficult man
I admit I'm not easy
At the drop of a tear
I can turn right away
And all the heartaches I've seen
One after another
Can make a man mean enough
To feel afraid
And nobody cares no one really knows me
And nobody shares the other side of me
But you love like nobody loves me
I was there all the time
Even I couldn't find me
So how did you see? What made you believe?
And nobody cares no one really knows me
And nobody shares the other side of me
But you love like nobody loves me
You delivered my heart
One beat at a time after time after time
And nobody cares no one really knows me
And nobody shares the other side of me
But you love like nobody loves me
So how did you see? What made you believe?
…
At the close of the song, Josh announced they'd take a quick break and be back out for a planned encore.
Josh headed straight for his water bottle, and Quinn swooped in to give him a kiss and congratulate him on a great show.
"Thanks, babe," Josh said. He reached past her to grab a towel to wipe his face.
Rachel was bouncing up and down in front of Puck. "Such a beautiful song! So full of meaning! Of course I love you: I have exquisite taste," Rachel stated, to Puck's amusement. She continued, "And have I mentioned I'm completely in awe of your musical talent?"
"Uh, no, you haven't. Seriously?"
"Yes, seriously. I am an impeccable judge of both character and talent. You know, someday when you make your own record, you won't have to hire other musicians to play the instruments you can play. That will save you money when you're first starting out and help you break into the business. Really, I'm so proud of you. And I can't wait to accompany you on stage for the encore."
Puck grinned—like an idiot, he knew.
"Glad you're ready," interrupted Josh, "'Cause we can't keep them waiting any longer for the encore or they're just gonna leave before you get to join us."
"Oh, of course," Rachel said.
Josh headed back to the microphone. "This will be the band's last performance at The Tavern for awhile."
"Aww," came from the crowd.
"But we'll be in New York this summer, trying to make it big. So hey, if you're in Manhattan, well, Brooklyn, look for us. We're The Relentless."
Josh paused for the scattered applause and shouts of encouragement. He was also giving Puck time to finish setting up his drum station, which seemed to be taking longer than expected. (Puck was putting himself between Trey and Rachel so that Trey wouldn't get to look up Rachel's skirt.)
"Ok, for our last two songs, we have some keyboard accompaniment. He motioned for Rachel to join them on stage. Give the lovely lady a hand." Rachel curtsied as she took her seat. "Puckerman will be joining Trey on this next one, but don't worry, ladies, he'll be back at front and center after this one," Josh winked at the crowd. Puck grinned too. He was actually looking forward to his debut on the drums. Trey was at his drum kit as usual, but they had an extra floor tom and sticks for Puck.
Puck and Trey started Percussion Gun on the drums, and Josh opened with the vocals.
Well, how do you do?
The kiss on the cheek
It's been a while
So I'll just beg, borrow, and steal all your time
We'll call it dignified
Well, now it seems to be cut and dry
So I know which way to run
You're tired my love, I feel the same
Puck smirked as Rachel pounded the keys but managed to look like a concert pianist instead of a girl in a band.
Well, take it from me
What else could you do?
Now, where do you get off?
And how can I get there, too?
Ah, in time, we'll call it dignified
Well, now it seems to be cut and dry
So I know which way to run
You're tired my love, and I feel the same
Rachel joined the guys for the 'ooh's'.
Ooooh, oooh
You'll never come back
My god, can't you see that?
I know which way to run
You're tired my love, I feel the same
The [letter, long], won't speak my name
Ooooh, oooh
Puck winked at Rachel while she played and he and Trey paused from their drumming. She smiled and winked back. The lyrics were kinda sad, but the song was a trip to play, Puck thought.
Well, everyone's saying rise and shine
It might not be true, and that's just fine
'Cause I know which way to run
You're tired my love, I feel the same
The [letter, long,] won't speak my name
Now even [as we] jump this ship
Ah, just give me some peace of mind 'cause I…
Oooh, oooh…
Eddie's bass line ended the song amid the cheers of the crowd.
"Give Puckerman a hand for his drum work, as he makes his way back up front to join me on guitar." Josh paused for the applause. "And now we've come to our final song. You may know it; it's Shattered from O.A.R. This one's dedicated to the girl backstage."
Rachel hesitated upon hearing those words but brushed it off. She always looked too deeply into song lyrics, and the band was waiting for her to start. Rachel began the playing the notes.
Quinn was listening intently, alone backstage. The title sounded ominous, but she couldn't place the song. When she heard a song dedicated to her (even if Josh referred to her as 'the girl backstage') she was expecting that 40 Dogs one, not Shattered.
Josh steeled himself for this performance. Go big or go home, he told himself.
In a way, I need a change
From this burnout scene
Another time, another town
Another everything
But it's always back to you
Quinn had a small smile on her face when Josh looked at her from his place on stage. But for some reason, his eyes looked cold and gray instead of their usual soft blue.
Stumble out, in the night
From the pouring rain
Made the block, sat and thought
There's more I need
It's always back to you
But I'm good without ya
Yeah, I'm good without you
Yeah, yeah, yeah
The smile slipped off of Quinn's face.
How many times can I break till I shatter?
Over the line can't define what I'm after
I always turn the car around
Give me a break let me make my own pattern
All that it takes is some time but I'm shattered
I always turn the car around
I had no idea that the night
Would take so damn long
Took it out, on the street
While the rain still falls
Push me back to you
But I'm good without ya
Yeah, I'm good without you
Yeah, yeah, yeah
How many times can I break till I shatter?
Over the line can't define what I'm after
I always turn the car around
Give me a break let me make my own pattern
All that it takes is some time but I'm shattered
I always turn the car around
Ohh, Give it up, give it up, baby
Give it up, give it up, now
Now
Rachel thought of poor Quinn alone backstage. The songs were like a one-two punch. Was that the intention? Josh seemed like a clever guy, so how could he not notice the lyrics?
How many times can I break till I shatter?
Over the line can't define what I'm after
I always turn the car around
All that I feel is the realness I'm faking
Taking my time but it's time that I'm wasting
Always turn the car around
How many times can I break till I shatter?
Over the line can't define what I'm after
I always turn the car around
Don't wanna turn that car around
I gotta turn this thing around
Quinn was shaking, holding back tears. Did this mean what she thought it meant?
…
"I'm not sure if I should be flattered by the dedication or upset because of the song," Quinn said as soon as Josh walked off stage.
"That's up to you, babe," he shrugged. Then he looked away from her as he set his guitar in its case.
"Well, that depends on if you picked that song for a reason." She didn't want to assume too much.
"Yeah, I did pick it for a reason," he said as he snapped the case shut.
Rachel looked at Puck, wondering just how much he knew. He didn't seem surprised, so she feared that he knew this was coming. She was furious for Quinn's sake. Everyone in the band tried to act like they weren't listening to Josh and Quinn as they started packing up the instruments.
"Well, please tell me why you dedicated that song to me," Quinn said, trying to keep herself composed. "It wasn't the one I was expecting."
"Sure, I'll tell you." He turned and looked her in the eyes. "The only reason I asked Puckerman to set me up with a friend of Rachel's was because I thought I'd be getting some ass. That didn't work out like I thought." This part wasn't too hard for Josh to say since that really was his original intent. From the look on her face, he could tell Quinn believed it. It sucked, but he had to keep it up.
"You're not who I thought you'd be," Quinn whispered, looking at the floor. She shook her head in disbelief at herself for thinking that Josh might be the more mature choice for her.
"Neither are you."
"What did you think I'd be?" Quinn looked up at him, eyes burning with unshed tears.
"A good lay," he retorted.
"How would you even know?" she huffed. Quinn's ice-bitch attitude was creeping back. She needed that strength now.
"Exactly! We started dating in what, January? It's May now, Quinn. May! Do you know how long that is for a guy to go without sex?!" This part wasn't too hard for Josh to say either.
Puck nodded his head in agreement automatically. Rachel elbowed him sharply in the gut. But neither of them spoke as they continued to listen intently.
Quinn just glared back at Josh, arms crossed over her chest.
"I bet you're giving it up to that idiot Finn and holding out on me," Josh said.
That was the nail in the coffin. Quinn slapped him across the face with all the force she had. Then she ran from backstage to the parking lot. Rachel rushed after her. Puck gave Josh a look that Josh couldn't read, and then he followed Rachel out.
Josh rubbed his cheek tenderly. It hurt. It hurt to let her go, but it was probably for the best. For her.
Thank God he was leaving for the summer soon. He hoped that would help dull the ache.
He was going to miss her. The way you miss something you never really had in the first place.
…
Quinn had driven to The Tavern herself, with the idea of spending time with Josh afterward. She thanked Rachel for her concern, but said that she just wanted to get home before she completely lost it. So Puck and Rachel followed Quinn in Puck's truck to make sure she was ok to drive.
"Wow, so Josh really did turn out to be a jerk!" exclaimed Rachel. "I can't even believe the things he said!" Her face was flushing with anger. And her heart ached for Quinn too.
"Yeah…" was all Puck said.
"You don't sound convinced. Normally you'd be the first to rail about his jerkness."
"I don't know, he wasn't acting normal. Like he was doing it on purpose."
"Being a jerk on purpose, that sounds right," huffed Rachel, crossing her arms.
"He looked like someone made him swallow a dirty sock."
Rachel regarded him blankly. "I have no idea what to make of that. I don't have any basis for comparison regarding sock swallowing."
Puck continued, "Ok, he was also sweating way more than usual."
"So?"
"And like some of the sweat was coming from his eyes. His eyes were sweaty, Berry."
"What does that even mean? Honestly, you're not making any sense."
"You know, like it was raining on his face? Flight of the Conchords? Nothin'?"
"Just say what you mean." Rachel was getting frustrated by Puck's brand of metaphors.
Puck felt a bit bound by the Bro Code, even though it was Josh. Lately Josh had been kind of like an older brother that he never had, so he didn't want to come out and say that he thought Josh was practically crying, but Rachel wasn't getting his hints. At all. He made a mental note to make her watch Season 1 of Flight of the Conchords since she'd made him watch Veronica Mars. "I think I saw some tears in his eyes during the show, Berry! I mean, I think it was like in one of those cartoons where the little kid throws the rock at the dog to get it to leave for its own good, but the kid's like crying and stuff?"
"What in the world are you talking about? What kind of terrible cartoons did you watch as a child?"
"Ok, maybe it wasn't a cartoon. But a movie, like Old Yeller or something."
"There were no such scenes in Old Yeller," she replied indignantly.
"Rachel, it doesn't matter. I'm just trying to explain!" He was getting frustrated too. He wasn't good with words. "It's like he was breaking up with her even though he didn't want to, and he knew the way to do it was to make her seriously pissed."
Rachel scoffed. "If Josh was acting, then maybe he should come to the acting program with me this summer."
"Or maybe he was acting, and he's so good that he doesn't need the summer program," Puck retorted.
"Touché," said Rachel, sounding impressed. "But really, do you have any other reasons, besides his so-called sweaty eyes, to think that Josh was breaking up with Quinn for her own good? If he liked her, it really doesn't make sense to treat her that way."
"Well, there's a little more to it than that," said Puck reluctantly.
"Tell me."
So Puck abandoned the Bro Code. It wasn't the first time.
"Ok, before Prom, he was like floating around like a fairy—sorry," he paused seeing Rachel scrunch her nose when he said 'fairy'. He didn't really mean it as a gay insult. "I'm saying he was like a Disney character, ok? Just so obviously into Quinn. Then after Prom, he was asking a lot of questions about how things went… He kinda acted like he actually saw Quinn there. He said something about how happy she looked with Finn. I didn't really think anything of it at the time. But now I think he saw them, maybe when we were in the parking lot on the way in, I don't know."
Rachel nodded, thinking about how she thought Quinn and Finn had looked happy on the way inside the hotel for Prom too. She listened as Puck continued. "Then when he added Shattered to our set list, I said it was like a break up song with Lima, and his mouth twisted all funny. Anyway, there were lots of things that led to me thinking that Josh thinks he's doing her a favor by breaking up with her this way."
"This is very interesting. You're very observant, Noah."
"That doesn't really get me anywhere. I don't know what to do about it all," Puck said ruefully.
Rachel went into Miss Fix-it mode. "If you had been a jerk to me, for example, and someone had insight into a reason why you behaved that way, I would want to know so that I could use that information when weighing my decision regarding forgiveness."
"Uh, thanks?"
"Hypothetically speaking, of course. I hope that we don't have too many such incidents. Anyway, I think you should give Quinn the chance to decide if she wants the information."
"Ok. So you can talk to her about what I just told you."
"No! I didn't hear it from the source, only you did. I didn't see all of your little signs. And I have no idea what you were talking about with half of this conversation! You have to talk to her!" Rachel was insistent.
"So you really think I should talk to her? Even though this little incident is probably good news for Finn?"
Rachel pondered Puck's words carefully. "I see your point. But like I said, if you'd been a jerk to me, and someone else knew why, I'd want to know. You can offer to tell Quinn your opinion and then she needs to decide for herself if she wants to forgive Josh or if she wants to try to stay with Finn. Wow, this situation—it's a bit like the parable about King Solomon from the Torah. The one in which two women claim to be the mother of a baby, and the true mother is the one who is willing to give up her baby rather than have the baby be cut in two equal halves. Quinn would know it from the Old Testament."
"Yeah, I guess it's kinda like that story. But you realize that I know the difference between Judaism and Christianity, don't you, Berry?"
"Of course. Sorry. Sometimes I ramble and explain things when I'm agitated."
"Really? Hadn't noticed," he deadpanned.
Rachel flashed him an annoyed look, but mostly out of habit. She wasn't really upset by his comment. "So do you really think that Josh was trying in some way to be the noble one in the story? Giving up his claim so Quinn wouldn't be divided? Letting her go for her own good? If so, that's somewhat admirable, even if he did go about it in the worst way possible." Rachel marveled that a boy could be so chivalrous and so…horrible at the same time.
Puck looked at her with wide eyes. "Shit, Rach, does that whole 'letting the other one go for their own good' thing apply to us too?"
Rachel's jaw dropped for a split second before she regained her composure. "Don't even think about going anywhere, Noah Puckerman."
…
Puck called up Quinn on Sunday to do his good deed for the week like Rachel suggested. Whatever.
"Puck," Quinn sighed. "To what do I owe this phone call?"
"So you've become a master at the bitchslap, huh, Quinn?"
She scoffed in a moment of brief amusement. "I changed my mind. It's not a good feeling," she said flatly into the phone.
"Sorry things went down like that," Puck offered. "So… uh, if I knew that there was a reason why Josh said and did what he did, would you wanna know or would you not wanna think about it?"
"Right now, I don't want to think about it. Nothing could redeem what he said, and what he really thought of me."
Puck could hear her sniffling, and he was pretty sure she was crying or would be soon. He didn't want to push it. "That's kinda what I thought. Ok, I'll leave you alone then. Sorry again."
"Thanks, Puck."
"If you change your mind, lemme know. Berry said I should give you the option of knowing."
"It really wouldn't matter, Puck. Now I know in my heart that Finn would never say something like that to me. He doesn't think of me that way. He's the one I need to make things right with."
"Well, uh, good luck with everything, Quinn. Later."
They ended their call.
Quinn called Finn.
…
Finn could tell Quinn was upset when she asked if he had time to pick her up.
"Can we just do something? Anything together?" she pleaded into the phone.
"Uh, yeah, I'll be right over to pick you up. We can go bowling if you want."
"Sure, Finn, that would be great." Quinn said. And she really thought it would. She didn't have to dress up for bowling, and maybe she could work through some emotions by hurling a stupid ball at some stupid little pins. Yeah, bowling would work just fine.
…
At the end of their bowling date Finn asked, "So how'd I do at distracting you, Quinn?"
"You were perfect. Just what I needed." Quinn smiled but she could feel that the smile didn't reach her eyes. She hoped Finn didn't notice.
He did.
…
June, Junior Year
They had a few snow days in Lima that year, so the last day of school was pushed to June instead of May. New Directions had been singing Somewhere Over the Rainbow to death for the upcoming graduation ceremony. But they only had one more day of practice. Will decided to mix it up a bit.
"Well, guys, it's been an amazing year for New Directions," Will said, "And I thought we'd have a little fun on our last day of class."
"So no singing today?" Puck asked hopefully.
"No, Puck, there will be singing. But we won't just be doing Somewhere Over the Rainbow. Well, we do have practice again right before commencement. But now we're going to do a little medley of Rainbow with the song I'm Yours by Jason Mraz. You see, back when I was in college, there was this acapella group—the inspiration for Acafellas, guys!" he enthused, looking at Finn and Puck. "Anyway, I thought it would be fun to give this acapella song a try that guys I ran into in college came up with. They're rather successful, I might add. So maybe we'll use this in our repertoire for next fall."
"We're going to try an acapella song for the first time ever on the last day of school?" Santana asked in her typical tone of mild disgust and annoyance.
"It's just for fun," Will shrugged. "And since you're not used to acapella singing, I'll accompany you on my ukulele like I have been doing for Rainbow, ok?" Will noticed the eye rolls at his correct pronunciation of ukulele. He knew their Midwestern ears weren't used to the word, but he winced every time he caught their looks. Sue really did have a point about kids needing discipline.
So Will passed out the music and did a few run-throughs before they knocked it out of the park.
To the members of New Directions, the song was a surprisingly good choice from their director. They felt like a little family singing in harmony. And several couples and would-be couples shared meaningful glances during the medley.
Girls: Doo-doo, Doo-doo
Boys: Ooooo oooooo oooooo
Ooooo oooooo oooooo
Finn: Well you done done me in; You bet I felt it
I tried to be chill, but you're so hot that I melted
I fell right through the cracks
And now I'm trying to get back
Artie: Before the cool done run out I'll be givin' it my bestest
And nothing's gonna stop me but divine intervention
Puck: I reckon it's again my turn
To win some or learn some
Finn, Artie, Puck: But I won't hesitate no more, no more
It cannot wait, I'm yours
All: I am yours
Boys: Hey, hey
Puck: Hey, You best believe I'm yours
Rachel: Now open up your mind and see like me
Open up your plans and [hey] you're free
Quinn: Look into heart and you'll find love, love, love, love
Tina: Listen to the music of the moment people dance and sing
We're just one big family
Girls: And it's our godforsaken right to be loved loved loved loved loved
Girls: So I won't hesitate no more, no more
It cannot wait, I'm sure
All: There's no need to complicate
Our time is short
This is our fate
I'm yours
Rachel: Someday I'll wish upon a star,
Wake up where the clouds are far behind
Behind me
(I am yours)
Mercedes: Oh, somewhere over the rainbow (hey)
Blue birds fly; See them fly
Girls: Birds fly over the rainbow
Why oh why can't I?
Finn: Been spending way too long checkin' my tongue in the mirror
And bending over backwards just to try to see it clearer
But my breath fogged up the glass
So I drew a new face and I laughed.
Artie: I guess what I'm saying is there ain't no better reason
To rid yourself of entities and just go with the seasons
Puck: It's what we aim to do
Our name is our virtue
Finn, Artie, Puck: But I won't hesitate, no more no more
It cannot wait
I'm yours
The boys looked at their girls.
Boys: So please don't please don't please don't
There's no need to complicate
Cause our time is short
This is oh this oh this is our fate
All: I'm yours.
"Wow, guys!" Will exclaimed. "That was just fantastic, really! I hope you enjoyed performing that together!"
They did.
Quinn smiled genuinely and nodded at Finn. Tina blushed and smiled at Artie. Rachel beamed at Puck and lunged at him, to the laughter of everyone in the room, even Mr. Schue.
…
Of course the graduation ceremony with New Directions performing Somewhere Over the Rainbow while Mr. Schuester played ukulele was a success. Principal Figgins swayed happily to the music and was even spotted brushing a tear from his eye. Coach Sylvester nodded quietly in her black track suit, while Miss Pillsbury clutched her hands at her heart near the lovely bow on her blouse. The song was the highlight of the ceremony for nearly everyone except perhaps the seniors themselves, who probably preferred the moment when they turned their tassels and marched out of the auditorium as graduates.
…
Puck planned to spend as much time with Rachel as possible before her first two weeks of camp in New York. He and the guys in The Relentless would be heading to Brooklyn to stay with Josh's brother during the week Rachel had as her break before her second camp. Well, the guys would be staying with the Jordan's while Puck and Rachel got a hotel. You could only fit so many people in the brownstone Josh's brother shared with his wife, and Puck would definitely need lots of alone time with his girl!
So after checking in with his mom and Sarah after the graduation ceremony, Puck headed to Rachel's house. Marshall Berry greeted him at the door and told him he could go upstairs.
Puck smirked and leaned against the door frame as he watched Rachel. Her trip was still over a week away, but she was already pulling out suitcases from her closet.
Rachel sang the lyrics of Lucky to herself as she packed for the summer, oblivious to Puck's presence.
They don't know how long it takes
Waiting for a love like this
Every time we say goodbye
I wish we had one more kiss
I'll wait for you I promise you, I will
I'm lucky I'm in love with my best friend
Lucky to have been where I have been
Lucky to be coming home again
Lucky we're in love every way
Lucky to have stayed where we have stayed
Lucky to be coming home someday
"What's that you're humming and smiling about?" Puck asked her when she concluded the song by humming the tune. Rachel spun around, a bit startled to realize he had been there while she flitted around, listening to her iPod and planning for her trip. But the sight of his warm smile and flashing green eyes quickly prompted a brilliant smile of her own.
"Just thinking of how lucky I am. How lucky we are. Not everyone has what we have." Rachel's thoughts flashed to Quinn briefly before turning back to bask in the glow of this moment with Noah.
"I know," he nodded. "We are two good looking, lucky Jews." He pulled her close for a kiss. Then he released her to continue packing, while he frowned slightly at her suitcase.
Rachel noticed. "It'll be a great summer. Everything's going to be ok, you know."
She didn't say it as a question. It was a statement. Well, if Rachel was sure, then so was he. Everything was gonna be ok.
Puck nodded in agreement and sighed contentedly, "You know, I think you might be the best thing that's ever happened to me."
"Funny, I think I recall you telling me this before." Rachel giggled.
"Oh yeah? Well, what do you have to say about it?" He stepped towards her and looked down in an intimidating pose, but the sweet look on his face revealed his amusement.
"I think you're the best decision I ever made," she said solemnly.
"Damn right." Puck smiled down at Rachel.
She smiled up at Noah as he took her in his arms.
The summer began.
And everything was perfect.
…
END
A.N. First, thanks so much to everyone who read this story, alerted (268), favorited (122), and reviewed! I really enjoyed interacting with all of the reviewers and you really helped direct this story! Sorry this took so long and that some of the line spacing is weird. It wasn't like that in my document, and I don't know how to fix it.
Secondly, this chapter was so hard to write. But since different readers want different things, I'll leave it up to you to imagine if all goes happily ever after from here or if things fall apart again for our favorite characters. (I'm actually really curious to know what everyone sees as the future for these characters—so tell me!) This story was classified as Angst/Romance, and since the majority demanded that angst end for Puck and Rachel, I found a way to bring the angst back a bit through Quinn; and I hope it was a nice contrast between different relationships.
This final chapter delivered a second slap as promised to BittyAB18, Puck's inner nerd (evil genius plan) and Puck getting a bit violent as desired by joker to the thief, more gleeks for all those who requested, like weasleymadchen, but a solid focus on Puck/Rachel (I hope) for everyone, in particular Dewymornings87 and sweetcaroline1986, and a shout out to fresch for reading my mind about how things were going when reviewing ch 24.
It's been a great ride and a wonderful introduction to fanfiction writing. I'll be writing two reader-directed stories for the winners of the Support Stacie Auction. Then, I plan to take a writing break, but if there is enough interest, I might be persuaded to write a one-shot about Summer in NY. I don't know if I can do a Senior Year though without repeating the themes in Junior Year. But I have had one request (kaelaelameee) for "Outtakes" from Junior Year. I'm not sure what I'd do, so if there are requests for "Outtakes", leave them here. Anyway, please let me know what you think! Many thanks!