Thanks to guesttt, French fan, Anon12, Blueskiies, desshaje, StephaniieC, NayaSantana0112, FirewithFire, dannycena, kbliechroth, auntdedra, Ashley S, cheekymonkey212, Fruith, mago01, Prettygleekbitch, samsterthesuperhamster, cmustudent, XenaLina, dominoL, icesk8er, jrzygurl89, slbsp-33, jandrews22britt, Fern, catmig, SuperNina, njhousefan, Channy2425, and all the GUEST reviewers for your reviews on the last chapter
CMUStudent - Anthony was introduced in the story quite a few chapters ago, he is a teacher at Brittany's LA studio
StephaniieC - No San does not have Parkinson's Lol
Blueskiies - Brittany didn't bring up Quinton bullying Ashton to Quinn, because that's Santana's theory not hers
DannyCena - Quinn and Rachel's "drama" will be highlighted in a chapter or two
I didn't plan the last chapter to be intense, but I guess it was. Lol, this chapter was purposely written to be super intense, so hold on to your seats. Lol
New chapter! Enjoy! :)
9pm
"Carter, for the 5th time, please go get in the shower baby." Santana said tiredly while picking up the toys in the family room.
"I will on commercial break." Carter said with his eyes glued to the TV set.
Noah walked in the room and turned the TV off. "Go now, you heard what mom said."
"I don't have to listen to you." Carter said angrily.
"Stop testing me Carter." Noah said sternly. "You need to start listening better."
"Says who?!" Carter challenged with a smirk.
"Says me." Noah growled out at him.
"Boys please, I'm too tired for this tonight." Santana said softly as she looked down at her shaking hands. "Carter, shower, now. Noah, please don't threaten him."
Carter grumbled and angrily left the room to head up to his bedroom. Noah went over and took the pile of toys out of Santana's hands. "Are you ok mom?" He asked her.
"I'm fine mijo." Santana told him while nodding.
"Y-you don't look it." Noah said tentatively. "You're shaking." He said while resting his hand on her shoulder.
"I'm just tired baby, I'm going to give Mackey a bath and head to bed." She replied with a smile as she put her hands behind her back.
"Ok, I'll clean up down here for you." Noah told her.
"Thank you sweetheart." She said with a smile. "Good night mijo."
Santana went up to Mackenzie's room, where the little blonde was having a tea party. Santana sat down on her bed and smiled as she watched Mackenzie animatedly play by herself. After a few minutes she finally spoke up.
"Bath time princess." Santana said with a smile.
"The tea party isn't done." Mackenzie said while looking up.
"Can you finish it tomorrow?" Santana asked her.
Mackenzie looked between her play table and mother before she smiled and shrugged. "Ok."
"Thank you sweetheart." Santana replied more than thankful she didn't have to have a debate with a 3 year old. "Can you pick out some pjs by yourself to put on tonight?"
Mackenzie smiled and ran to her drawer with her pajamas in it and quickly pulled out a pair. "These ones." She held up proudly.
"Good choice." Santana nodded in confirmation. "Let's take your tiara and your tutu off." Santana took the items off of her and placed them on her dresser before lifting Mackenzie in her arms and carrying her up to her bathroom. She went straight to the bathroom and set her down. "Can you pick out bubbles for us?" She asked as she began to run the water.
"Ok," Mackenzie went over to the cabinet where her bath toys were and picked up a purple bottle and walked to Santana. She patted her leg and held it high. "Here mommy."
Santana looked down and smiled. "Thank you, you are so helpful tonight Mack."
After stripping off both of their clothes, they were settled in the bathtub together. Santana began to gently wash her daughter while doing her best to keep her hands from shaking, since Mackenzie noticed everything, and already pointed out once that evening that her hands were shaking.
"Your teacher said you were so good in school this week baby, I'm proud of you." Santana told her while kissing her on the temple.
"We did our ABCs." Mackenzie said while splashing her rubber ducky around.
"Good thing we practiced those all summer huh?" Santana said while laughing softly. Mackenzie nodded.
"How about we sing them together right now?" Santana asked.
"Ok."
"On three baby girl. 1…2…3." Santana counted out.
"A - B - C - D - E - F - G
H - I - J - K -LMNO - P
Q - R - S - T - U - V,
W - X - Y and Z
Now I know my A - B - C's
Next time won't you sing with me?"
They sang out together. Santana gave her a high five when she was done and hugged her tightly. "That was so good Mackey, so, so good." Santana beamed.
They sang the alphabet a few more times together before the mixture of warm water and her mother's arms wrapped around her tightly slowly drifted Mackenzie to sleep. Santana leaned back in the tub with Mackenzie cuddled asleep on her chest and rubbed her back slowly with the warm towel while she sang softly to her.
When you were born
The angels sighed in delight
They never thought they'd see such a beautiful sight
You took the breath
And the world was right again
Tears were shed
How we have been blessed
And your love, it shines so bright
You bring me back to life, back to life
You make everything right
And your love, it shines so bright
You bring me back to life, back to life
You got a light inside, light inside
God made you beautiful
God made you beautiful
You're beautiful
You're beautiful
Santana kissed the top of her head several times before attempting to stand up when the house phone rang. She settled back down and rubbed Mackenzie's back to lull her back to sleep for the moment, as she answered by pressing the intercom on the wall.
Hello?
Hey baby, I've been calling your cell phone
Oh, sorry Brit, I'm in the tub with Mackey
No problem, I just got a little worried
I'm fine Brit, Santana smiled Did you go to dinner?
No, I had another meeting with one of the contractors, they put the wrong carpet in, so I just ordered room service
Seriously? What the fuck Brit, we personally showed them the carpet you wanted; they even had a swatch Santana hissed out. Fuckin unbelievable, tell them we aren't paying them for the extra day it will take for them to rip that carpet out and put the right one in.
I already talked to them Snixx. Brittany laughed. I love when you get feisty for me
Santana laughed back. No one messes with you on my watch Brit
How did tonight go with the kids?
Ok, dinner was Carter's Comedy Show apparently Santana said while rolling her eyes But overall ok, I just made burgers for them
For them? You didn't eat?
I wasn't really hungry, so I just made myself a small salad
San…
I can't help if I wasn't hungry baby
I know… I miss you, I hate sleeping away from you
I hate sleeping away from you too Santana said as Mackenzie shifted slightly, she ran the warm towel over her back again to settle her. I'm performing on Jimmy Kimmel Monday night
Whoa, really? Did they just book you?
Yeah Emily called me an hour ago and asked if I wanted to do it, I told her sure. I called your mom and she's going to keep Ashton, Carter, and Mackenzie Monday night
What about Noah?
I'm going to take him with me.
He'll love that, what are you going to sing?
Couple of Forevers most likely, I wish you were in town, I would perform Meant To Be and bring you on stage with me. Santana teased
Oh no, Brittany laughed. Make sure you DVR it at home, I may be stuck at the studio doing last minute things before I come home Tuesday, I want to see it
I will, I'm going to take Mackey to bed, and try to get some sleep myself, I'm tired
Ok, love you, I'll call you in the morning
Love you too Brit, good night baby
Good night San
2am
Santana was sitting up in bed taking slow deep breaths to try and calm herself down enough to finally fall asleep. She was sweating and wringing her wrists with her eyes tightly closed. She had hot tears slowly coming out of her eyes, when she quickly reached over and grabbed her cell phone shakily dialing the phone number of the only person who she knew could calm her down.
"Please answer…." Santana said softly to her.
Brittany heard her cell phone ringing and opened her eyes to check the time. "5 am?" She groaned out and reached over to grab her phone off the bedside table. She saw Santana's picture blinking and quickly answered the phone.
San…Santana what's wrong?
Hi Brit Santana said in a small voice as she brought her legs up to her chest and began to slowly rock.
What's wrong baby?
I'm sorry its so late, I shouldn't have called you, go back to sleep Brit
Brittany turned on the lamp in her hotel room and sat up in bed. It's ok, are you ok? Are the kids ok?
The kids are fine
Are you ok Santana?
Yeah, I just wanted to hear your voice. Santana said softly while grabbing a pillow and hugging it tightly and sniffling
You don't sound ok. Why are you up San? It's 2am there
I can't sleep, my brain won't turn off
What are you thinking about? Brittany asked.
Everything Santana said while shaking her head
Do you want me to come home baby, I can catch a flight right away Brittany asked while getting out of bed and stretching before going to grab a bottle of water from the mini fridge.
No, you don't have to do that.
I'm going to call you on Skype, I need to see your face ok? Brittany told her while heading back to the bedroom and hopping back in bed. She grabbed her ipad and quickly Skyped Santana Get your ipad San
Santana shakily reached over and picked it up answering right away; she then turned on the lamp in the bedroom and hung up the phone.
You're sweating San, your shirt is drenched baby. Brittany said while bringing the ipad closer to her face to get a good look at her wife.
I can't cool off. Santana told her.
I'm going to stay on with you, I want you to get in a cold shower, I'm going to talk to you the whole time. Brittany said with a smile. I'm not going to lose you to this Santana, we will get through tonight together
Santana nodded. Ok, I don't want to lose you
I'm not going anywhere Brittany assured her. I love you far too much, get in the shower baby, and take the ipad to the bathroom with you
Santana nodded and slowly got out of bed and walked to the bathroom. She reached in and shakily turned on the shower. She then set the ipad on the counter so she could still see Brittany.
Just stand under the cold water for a few minutes San, it will cool you off Brittany told her with the best smile she could put on.
Santana turned her back to Brittany and stripped her clothes off and slowly stepped in, she left the shower door open so she could still see Brittany and stood directly under the stream.
Brittany reached over and grabbed her cell phone and sent a quick text.
TO QUINN: I know it's late, but can you go to my house and stay with San, she just called me and she's in bad shape right now, I don't know if I should book a flight and come home or not. If you can't, let me know and I can call my mom or Cedes
Brittany put her phone back down. San, can you sing me something?
Santana turned and looked at the ipad with a slight frown. Right now? She asked shakily.
Brittany nodded. Yeah, I miss your voice. Why don't we sing something together?
I don't know Brit, maybe another day Santana said softly while letting the cold water cascade over her body
Brittany's phone went off as a text message came through.
FROM QUINN: Getting dressed and on my way there now Brit, get your studio opened, I'll stay with her, if she gets too bad then I'll tell you to come back right away
TO QUINN: Ok, thanks Quinn, I'm on Skype with her. I'm going to stay on with her until you get there.
FROM QUINN: Sounds good, I'll be there soon
Brittany looked back up at the ipad and saw Santana roughly rubbing her skin with a towel as her hands shook. San…
Santana didn't stop she instead scrubbed harder and rougher with her eyes tightly closed.
Santana! Brittany screamed out hoping to get her attention.
Santana jumped slightly when Brittany screamed her name and stopped her actions. I think Ima get out now Brit.
Brittany sighed and ran her fingers through her hair and nodded. Ok, that's a good idea.
Santana stepped out and turned her back to Brittany and quickly dried off before putting on a pair of shorts and a clean tank top from the closet in the bathroom. Santana then picked up the ipad and went back to the bedroom. Once she was back in the bed she simply stared at Brittany through the ipad. I love you Brit
I love you more Santana Brittany told her while blowing her a kiss. Are you cooler now?
Santana nodded. Yeah
Try to get some sleep baby Brittany told her
Santana nodded. Ok She replied as tears began to cascade out of her eyes
Brittany quickly frowned. Why are you crying San?
I woke you up for no reason She said while wiping her eyes Im sorry Brit
Don't cry because of that San, I'm not mad, I got to see your gorgeous face baby, that trumps sleep on any day Brittany told her with a smile.
Santana nodded and laid down under the covers. Can you stay on until I fall asleep?
Brittany smiled. Of course, lay the ipad down on my pillow; it'll be like I'm there with you. Brittany suggested.
Santana smiled and kissed the screen before laying it down on the pillow next to her.
Good night San
Good night Brit, thank you Santana mumbled out as she fell asleep.
Brittany sighed in relief when she heard Santana's breathing even out a few minutes later. She looked down at her phone and saw another message from Quinn.
FROM QUINN: Just pulled up to your house.
TO QUINN: She just fell back asleep, sorry Quinn. You can go back home if you want.
Quinn hopped out of her car and quietly closed the door and pulled out her spare set of keys to their house. Once inside she ran quietly past the puppies hoping they didn't wake up and start barking in excitement. She went up to the guestroom and pulled out her phone.
TO BRIT: It's okay, I'll just go back to sleep in the guestroom
FROM BRIT: OK, can you go turn her ipad off we were on Skype?
TO BRIT: Sure, I'll call you in the morning Brit.
FROM BRIT: Thanks again Quinn
TO BRIT: It's no problem Brit don't worry about it.
Quinn tossed her phone on the bed and went to first check on Ashton and Carter; she peeped in their rooms and saw they were fast asleep so she quietly closed the door. She then went to Noah's room and saw the light on under the door. She knocked and opened the door.
Noah was lying in bed on his laptop with headphones on. He looked up and frowned. "Aunt Q, what are you doing here?"
Quinn stepped in and closed the door. "I came to check on your mom."
"What's wrong with her?" Noah asked quickly while taking his headphones off.
"Nothing, she's fine." Quinn said with a smile.
Noah frowned again. "Then why are you checking on her?"
Quinn sighed. "I, uh, ummmmm."
"I know her anxiety is back." Noah stated. "Her hands were shaking when she made dinner."
Quinn's mouth dropped open. "I'm 15, I'm not 5 anymore Aunt Q, I know when something is wrong with her." Noah stated.
"Brittany called me and asked me to stop by and check on her." Quinn then said.
Noah nodded. "Ok."
"Get some sleep Noah, it's late." Quinn said before walking back towards the door. "Good night sweetheart."
"Aunt Q." Noah called out before Quinn closed the door.
"Yeah?"
"Thanks for coming over." Noah told her. "Even if my mom doesn't always say it, she really does appreciate all your help."
Quinn smiled. "I know she does, I appreciate all her help too, even though I don't always tell her either."
Quinn then went to Mackenzie's room and smiled at the little blonde who was curled tightly in a ball while she held Shelley sound asleep. "Cutest pajamas ever." She said softly while laughing at Mackenzie's footed pajamas that made her look like a purple tiger. She carefully picked her up and cuddled her close to her chest before grabbing Shelley.
She then slowly walked up to the third level to Santana and Brittany's room; she pushed the door open and laid Mackenzie close to Santana. She smiled when Santana felt Mackenzie's presence and pulled her close in her sleep. She picked up the ipad and waved to Brittany before disconnecting from Skype and setting it on the dresser.
Brittany wasn't able to go back to sleep so she called down to the front desk.
"Hi I'm calling from room 3323, I'd like to moved to a different room please." Brittany said into the phone. "Can you please have security escort me there as soon as possible?"
Once she hung up her cell phone, she quickly put on some clothes and packed all her belongings up and waited patiently by the door for her security escort. Since Anthony randomly showed up at her room Brittany didn't feel comfortable and wanted to switch rooms when she felt he would least expect it.
8am
Carter woke up from the smell of bacon wafting through the house, he licked his lips and jumped out of bed running into Ashton's room and jumping on him in his bed.
"Move Carter." Ashton groaned out. "You aren't supposed to be jumping around anyways."
Carter sat on Ashton's back. "I smell bacon!"
"Glad your nose works." Ashton laughed.
"I'm going to get breakfast." Carter said happily while jumping off of Ashton's bed and running out of the room excitedly. He ran down to the kitchen and stopped in his tracks. "You're not my mommy." He said quickly.
"Good morning to you too Carter." Quinn laughed.
"Sorry, hi Aunt Quinn." He smiled.
"Do you want breakfast?" Quinn asked while setting down the different platters of food on the kitchen table. Carter quickly nodded. "Can you go get everyone for me, and wash your hands please?"
"Ok!" Carter turned and ran out of the kitchen bumping into Ashton.
"Geez Carter, stop running everywhere." Ashton said while pushing his brother out of the way and going into the kitchen.
"Morning Grey." Quinn said while pouring juice into glasses on the table. "Do you know where Mackey's cup is?"
Ashton nodded and went to the cabinet and pulled it out and handed it to her. "Good morning, why are you here?'
"Surprise breakfast ambush." She winked with a smile.
"Cool," Ashton smiled and sat down.
Noah then came in the kitchen. "Morning Aunt Q." He said in a raspy voice while kissing her on the cheek.
"Morning Noah, have a seat." Quinn said while setting down more food on the table.
"This is more than mommy usually makes." Ashton said while looking over all the food Quinn prepared.
Carter ran in Santana's room and jumped in the bed. The Latina didn't have to open her eyes to know who it was. "Good morning Carter." She whispered out.
"Aunt Quinn made bacon and she said to come eat." Carter said while lying next to Santana. Mackenzie looked up and smiled.
"Quinn's here?" Santana asked while opening her eyes and sitting up. "Why?" She then noticed Mackenzie in bed wither. "When did you get here?" She asked the little blonde with a smile.
Carter shrugged. "Can I go eat?"
"Yeah go ahead, Mackey go with Carter and get some breakfast baby." She said while kissing them both on the forehead and setting Mackenzie on the floor. She watched as the two of them ran out of the room. She got out of bed and went to the bathroom to wash her face.
She looked at herself in the mirror and noticed the bags under her eyes and rolled her eyes. "I need a facial." She said to herself. She then looked down at her hands and smiled when she saw they weren't shaking. "Today is going to be a good day Santana." She told herself in the mirror before heading downstairs.
She entered the kitchen and smiled at her kids all eating happily at the table. "Good morning Ashton, good morning Noah." She said while kissing them on the forehead. "Q….what are you doing in my kitchen?" Santana then asked as Quinn turned around from the stove and handed her an omelette.
"Breakfast bush." Carter said while stuffing a pancake in his mouth.
"What are you teaching my babies?" Santana laughed.
"Breakfast ambush." Quinn explained with a smile.
Santana raised an eyebrow at her and accepted the cup of coffee. "Eat in the dining room with me Q."
Quinn nodded and fixed herself a plate; she then grabbed a cup of coffee and joined Santana in the dining room.
Santana set her plate and her coffee down and closed the sliding doors to the dining room. "Thank you for breakfast." She said while taking a bite of her omelette.
Quinn casually shrugged. "No problem."
"So, can you tell me the real reason you're here this morning?" Santana asked.
"Brittany texted me last night, she was worried about you." Quinn told her. "I guess you fell asleep before I got here, so I put Mackey in bed with you and slept in the guestroom."
"Nothing to worry about, I just couldn't fall asleep last night so I called Brit." Santana replied. "I missed her and just wanted to talk."
"So that's it?" Quinn asked while taking a sip of her coffee and raising her eyebrow. "So Brit overreacted?"
"Overreaction has a different meaning to different people." Santana said while taking another bite.
"Santana, you're not ok." Quinn said while setting her fork down. "Something has your anxiety heightened babe. I need you to talk to me, what's going on?"
"I'm fine Quinn." Santana said while slamming her fork down. "I want everyone to stop fuckin asking me what's wrong." She hissed out while standing up. "I'm fine….I'm fine!" She then yelled. "I'm fine Q!"
Noah heard the yelling in the kitchen. "Let's go outside and eat in the gazebo." He said quickly.
"Why?" Carter asked.
"Because it'll be fun." Noah said while glancing at the dining room. "Grey grab Mackey's plate for me."
Ashton heard the yelling faintly and looked over as well. "Come on Mackey."
"Carter get your plate, now." Noah said sternly while lifting Mackenzie out of her chair. He then grabbed a few of the platters of food and followed his younger siblings outside.
"It's like a picnic." Mackenzie said with a smile as Noah set her on his lap and handed her the pancake she was eating without the syrup.
"Exactly." Noah agreed while nodding.
"I guess." Carter shrugged.
"Can we go skating today Noah?" Ashton asked.
"You have to ask mommy not Noah." Carter scowled. "Noah isn't in charge."
Noah groaned. "I'll ask mom if I can take you guys ok?"
"Me too?" Mackenzie asked.
"She'll make us take security if you go Mack, but I'll ask her." Noah told her while kissing her on the forehead.
"I'm fine Q!" Santana yelled while slamming her fist on the table.
Quinn sat quietly for a moment as Santana began to shake with tears. "I-I'm fine, f-fine, I'm ok. I'm ok."
Quinn stood up and slowly pulled her into a hug causing the Latina to instantly tense up. "I'm ok." Santana cried into Quinn's shoulder.
"Hug me San." Quinn whispered. "Relax and hug me."
Santana's body slowly relaxed. "I'm fine…." She said shakily.
Quinn didn't say anything she just rubbed her back slowly. "Hug me San."
Santana finally hugged Quinn back shakily. "I'm ok." She sobbed out.
"I got you." Quinn said while hugging her tightly. "I'm here for you, Cedes is here for you, Hannah is, and most importantly you have Brittany, she loves you so much Santana, but you have to talk us. You need to talk to Brittany, she has to know what's going on with you."
"I h-have to s-stay s-strong for her." Santana cried while clutching tightly to Quinn.
"She won't love you any less in a moment of weakness San." Quinn assured her. "You know that."
Santana shook harder with tears. "I'm trying."
Quinn sighed. "I know."
Brittany sat in the limo quietly while she waited for Nikco to come outside. She just got off the phone with Santana a few minutes ago. She spent an hour on the phone reassuring Santana that it was ok for her to not be in complete over everything. After a long debate in which Santana told her not to come home, Brittany reluctantly got ready for her meeting. Even though Santana told her to stay the whole trip, Brittany changed her flight from Tuesday night to Monday afternoon. Santana didn't ask for her anxiety pills and that concerned her the most.
Nikco sat in the limo and squeezed Brittany's hand to get her attention. "Brit you ok?" He asked.
Brittany looked up and smiled. "Yeah."
Nikco frowned. "How long have I known you Brit?"
"Close to 15 years now." Brittany smiled.
"Right, so I know when you aren't ok. What's up?" Nikco asked as the limo pulled off from the hotel.
Brittany sighed. "San's anxiety is back and it seems worse than normal this time around."
Nikco frowned. "Is she back on her medication?"
Brittany shook her head. "No, I keep her pills with me so I can monitor how many she has taken, we agreed on that set up when she first got on them. She hasn't asked me where they are or for any. She keeps just saying she is stressed. That's what concerns me the most, I want her to admit it's her anxiety."
"Maybe it is just stress, I've seen the reports on all the projects she is working on the rest of the year, I'm surprised she has time to sleep and eat." He laughed to break the tension.
"She always takes on more than she needs to, she has a crazy work ethic though, she's always able to pull through anything when she needs to work. I'm going home tomorrow instead of Tuesday, can you handle everything we don't finish tomorrow." Brittany asked him.
"Of course." Nikco nodded. "Do you want to fly home today?"
Brittany shook her head. "Her and Quinn are taking the kids skating today, and my mom is going to stay at the house tonight, to kind of give her a break from running with the kids." Brittany laughed. "I want her to know that I'm there for her but I want to give her time to figure it out herself you know?" She added softly.
Nikco nodded. "You're a great wife Brit."
Brittany shrugged. "I try to be, San's a great wife to me, and mother to our kids. I'm so lucky to have her." She added with a smile.
"You two are perfect for each other." Nikco smiled. "Makes me want to settle down." He laughed.
"You should!" Brittany laughed.
"I'm thinking about it." Nikco smiled. "I bought a ring for Kirstin yesterday."
Brittany's eyes widened. "Seriously?!"
Nikco nodded and pulled a small velvet box out of his duffel bag and opened it.
"Oh my God!" Brittany said excitedly while clapping and tackling Nikco into a hug. "She is a lucky girl to get a rock that size."
"Says the woman with the 10kt ring on her finger." Nikco laughed.
Brittany blushed. "San spoils me."
"You spoil her too." Nikco laughed.
4pm LA
"What if I fall?" Mackenzie asked while Santana tied her skates for her.
"You won't baby, I won't let your hand go." Santana said with a smile.
"What if you fall?" Mackenzie asked.
Santana laughed. "I'm a pretty good skater." She winked at her daughter. "But if I do fall, I'll cushion your fall and you won't get hurt." She added.
"Come on San!" Mercedes called out from the middle of the skating rink where she was skating backwards while dancing.
"Damn show off." Santana mumbled as she helped Mackenzie on her feet. "Nice and slow baby."
"Feeling ok?" Quinn asked while skating over by Santana as her and Mackenzie stepped on the skating rink slowly.
"Yeah I am Q, thank you." Santana said softly. "For everything today."
"Sometimes a good cry is all you need." Quinn told her with a smile.
"I know." Santana nodded. "Carter do not push anyone again!" Santana yelled out when she saw him push Ashton. "If you do, the skates come off and you can sit down and wait for everyone else to finish."
Quinn laughed and skated over to Noelle and Quinton grabbing their hands and skating between the two of them.
"I skating!" Mackenzie shrieked as she made her way slowly around the perimeter of the rink while holding Santana's hand tightly.
"You are doing so good Mackey!" Santana told her with a smile as Carter skated quickly past bumping into Mackenzie causing her to stumble and begin to fall. Santana quickly reached down and grabbed her other hand and slightly lifted her off the ground to steady her and keep her from falling. "Dammit Carter!" She yelled.
"That's a naughty word." Mackenzie said quickly.
Santana sighed. "I know. Mommy is sorry." She apologized while setting her back down.
Noah quickly skated behind Carter and picked him up. "What is wrong with you?" Noah asked him while skating to the side.
"Noah!" Santana called out when she saw Noah aggressively pick up Carter.
"Let him handle it San." Mercedes replied as she skated over and grabbed Mackenzie's other hand. "Stay calm and let Noah handle it." She repeated.
Santana rolled her eyes. "Fine."
"Where's your phone? I'll record a video to send to Brit." Mercedes then asked.
Santana reached in her back pocket and handed it to her. "Thanks Cedes."
Mercedes let Mackenzie's hand go and began to skate backwards to record the pair skating while smiling. "Wave to your momma Mack." Mercedes laughed out.
Mackenzie slowly raised her hand and waved to the camera. "Momma I skating!" She said happily.
Santana winked at the camera and blew Brittany a kiss. "Let's go in a circle for momma." Santana suggested while grabbing Mackenzie's other hand and slowly turningd so the two of them were skating in a circle.
Mercedes smiled. "So cute."
Ashton skated over towards Quinton, Noelle, and Quinn. "Quinton can I skate with Noey?"
Quinton instantly frowned so Quinn nudged him and nodded. "Yeah, don't make her fall though." He reluctantly agreed.
Ashton smiled. "Thanks." He then held out his hand and took Noelle's hand and began to skate with her. "You look really pretty today Noey. Yellow is your color."
"Thanks Grey." She blushed. "You look handsome."
Ashton smiled. "It's cool we have science together in school. I can carry your books for you from lunch to class then."
"You don't have to do that." Noelle said with a smile.
"I know, but I want to." Ashton told her.
"I saw you get stuffed in your locker." Noelle said softly. "I told a teacher."
Ashton sighed and grew red instantly.
"Don't be embarrassed, Quinton got stuffed in his locker too, by the same guy." Noelle stated.
Ashton turned and grabbed Noelle's other hand and began skating backwards so he could look at her. "Really?"
Noelle nodded. "Yeah, he saw you get stuffed in yours and tried to punch the guy but missed. He's not good at fighting, remember Hawaii?" She smiled.
Ashton nodded. "So he tried to help me?"
Noelle smiled. "Yeah, why wouldn't he? You guys are best friends, even though he acts like he's mad at you, he's not, he misses hanging out and goofing off with you."
"My mom thinks he's the reason I'm getting bullied." Ashton said quickly.
Noelle shook her head. "Technically you're the reason he's getting bullied now. Can you make it right with him please?" She kissed Ashton on the cheek and skated back towards Quinn.
Ashton tucked his hands in to his pockets and skated towards Quinton. "Hey."
Quinton looked up. "Hey."
"Thanks for ummm, trying to defend me at school." Ashton laughed.
Quinton laughed. "I can't fight."
"We learned that in Hawaii." Ashton laughed. "But you're fast because you run track, so you can run away at least."
Quinton nodded. "Not fast enough to run away from being tossed in the dumpster and stuffed in my locker at school."
"Noah showed me a trick to avoid getting stuffed in my locker. I tried it and it worked." Ashton told him. "I can teach you."
"Cool." Quinton replied. "Thanks."
"No problem." Ashton said with a shrug.
"I put super glue in Johnny Mitchell's shampoo bottle during gym class." Quinton said suddenly. "He slipped Noey a note in class, she's your girlfriend, that's not right." Quinton told him. "She didn't read it, she gave it back to him right away."
"Thanks." Ashton told him.
"She's my sister, my twin, but she's your girlfriend." Quinton said. "Just don't hurt her ok?"
"I won't." Ashton told him while sticking out his hand to shake Quinton's. "Truce?"
"Truce." Quinton agreed. "I have an idea on how to get some people back for ganging up on us at school." Quinton then smiled.
"Cool." Ashton replied.
10pm
Santana slipped in bed after taking a long hot bath to relax herself when Brittany initiated a Skype conversation. She smiled and picked up her iPad answering quickly.
Hey Brit
Hey you, you look radiant right now, are you glowing?
Santana laughed. Flattery gets you everywhere with me baby, thank you
Brittany laughed. Seriously San, you look great right now, very drastic change from our last Skype chat. How are you feeling? Better from this morning?
Yeah Santana nodded
Are you mad at me for calling Quinn over?
As much as I want to be mad at you for that, I can't be baby, thank you for calling her
I got the video of you skating with Mackenzie, she looks so cute in her little skates, I hate I missed her first time
She loved it, so I promised her to take her again and you definitely will be us Santana smiled
I can't wait, are the kids all in bed?
Yeah, Carter is driving me up the damn wall Brit, he just doesn't listen at all
I know, I'll talk to him when I get back
Did you get a lot of work done on the studio?
Yeah I did, the cabinets are up in the offices, the dance rooms look amazing, the mirrors were installed this evening. I took pictures; I'll email them to you now
Ok thanks Santana yawned
Get some rest baby, I'll talk to you tomorrow, you need to get up early with the kids for school
I have to be on set at 6am actually, so your mom is taking Mackenzie to school.
Ok Brittany nodded Are you okay with that?
Yeah, as much I want to take her and pick her up everyday, I know that I can't. I told your mom to come by the soundstage after school so I can see her though
Brittany smiled Mackey will love that
Yeah I know, before I go, I owe you a song Santana smiled.
You don't owe me anything San
You asked me to sing last night and I didn't, I've never told you no before when you asked me to sing Brit, and I feel awful for that.
It's ok San, honestly
So you don't want me to sing? Santana asked with a smirk
Brittany laughed. I didn't say that, I said you didn't owe me a song
Santana laughed. This is for you baby She cleared her throat and began to sing
First, first time I looked into your eyes
I saw heaven, oh, heaven in your eyes
Everything I did before you, wasn't worth my while
It should've been you all the time
I'll do anything, and everything to please you
You know how much I need you
You're always, always, on my mind
You're more than wonderful
More than amazing
Irreplaceable, love, love, of my life
You're so incredible, here in these arms tonight
The irreplaceable, love, love, of my life
Always, seems like reality
Forever, don't seem so far away
All I wanna do, all I wanna feel, all I wanna be is close to you
Everyday, is my lucky day
All I wanna do, is love you
I place no one above you
I'll tell you why
You're more than wonderful
More than amazing
The irreplaceable, love, love, of my life
You're so incredible, here in these arms tonight
The irreplaceable, love, love, of my life
Baby you know, you know you're my one and only
All I wanna do is be together
Sugar you know, I'll never leave you lonely
In your eyes, in your eyes I see forever
Ahhhh, ohhhh, ohhh, ohhhhh,
Ahhhhh, ohhhhhh, ohhhh,
Te amo Brit Santana smiled. Buenas noches mi amor
I love you too San, sleep tight baby Brittany smiled and blew her a kiss
Santana sighed and turned off the ipad. She looked down at her hands, which were shaking slightly. "I need you Brit." She whispered before clasping her hands tightly together and putting them between her thighs, hoping to stop them from shaking. She tossed and turned for almost an hour before she finally fell asleep.
1pm
Santana was in her trailer getting her makeup retouched to film her next scene when there was a knock on her door. "Come in!" She yelled out while closing her script.
Mackenzie came running in. "Mommy!"
Santana stood up and picked her up quickly to hug her. "How was school baby?" She asked while kissing her on the cheek and sitting down. "Hi Mama P, thanks for picking her up."
"My pleasure." Mrs. Pierce smiled.
"We made pictures and it's for you." Mackenzie said while struggling to get her backpack off.
"Let me help you sweetheart." Santana said while helping her take her backpack off and unzipping it for her.
Mackenzie pulled out a colorful picture and presented it to her mother with a smile. "This us!"
"It's a family portrait." Santana smiled. "Did you see his Mama P?"
Mrs. Pierce shook her head. "No, I didn't." She smiled and sat next to the pair on the couch.
"Why don't you describe the picture baby, point everyone out?" Santana asked her.
"This is you and momma, Noah, Ashton, Grammy, me, Cinderella, and that's Carter." She pointed.
"Why is Carter on the other side of the picture? Why isn't he standing by everyone else?" Santana asked.
"He's in timeout." Mackenzie explained.
"Sounds about right." Santana mumbled out with a smile while Mrs. Pierces laughed.
"Who is this?" Mrs. Pierce asked as she pointed to a figure laying flat in the top corner with a star sticker behind him.
"That's Pop Pop, momma said he is sleep with the stars in the sky, and that's why we don't see him anymore." Mackenzie explained.
Santana smiled as her eyes watered. "That's right Mackey, momma was right."
"Excuse me please." Mrs. Pierce said softly while standing up and quickly leaving the trailer.
Santana glanced at her as she left. "Mackey where is your lunchbox?"
Mackenzie lifted her hand and held it up. "Why don't you share your special after school treat with Emily, while I go find Grammy?"
"We didn't have lunch yet." Mackenzie told her.
"That's ok, Grammy will give you another treat after lunch still." Santana said while setting Mackenzie on the floor.
"Your lunch box is so cool." Emily smiled. "Can I see it?"
Santana smiled and mouthed 'thank you' to Emily before quickly leaving the trailer. She looked around and saw Mrs. Pierce behind her trailer staring at the man made pond. Santana walked slowly over towards her. "It's ok to miss him Mama P." She said softly.
"I know." Mrs. Pierce nodded. "I try not to think about it, sometimes I try to imagine he's still alive and just on one of his golf trips, I pretend he extends the trip another couple days, and that he's till coming home." She sniffled. "Some days it works, other days it doesn't."
Santana sighed and wrapped her arm around the back of her mother in law and rested her head on her shoulder. "It's ok to be sad and cry. You haven't cried much since he died."
"You haven't either." Mrs. Pierce pointed out.
"I have to stay strong for Brit, for the kids, for you, for Hannah. I'm ok." Santana told her.
"You are going to crash honey, I see it. I see it in your eyes, I see it in your posture, your speech, the way you hug your kids tightly like it will be your last time seeing them forever." She then turned to face Santana and grabbed both of her hands. "Being strong for Brittany, and for the family is admitting that you are hurting and getting the help you need Santana."
Santana sighed and looked away. "I'm ok."
Mrs. Pierce smiled and hugged her tightly before kissing her on the forehead. "I'm going to take Mackey to lunch, and pack the boys bags for tonight."
"Thanks again." Santana told her.
"You're welcome, I'll see you later." Mrs. Pierce told her while heading back to Santana's trailer.
Santana stood outside by the pond and stared into space for a few minutes before pulling out her phone and texting Brittany.
TO BRIT: I love you Brit.
Brittany was in the office at the new studio while they hooked up the phone and Internet going over the checklist of what other minor things needed to be handled before she left for her flight in an hour. Her phone chimed with a text message. She smiled when she saw it was from Santana.
TO SAN: I love you too baby :)
FROM SAN: I miss you and can't wait to see you tomorrow, I gotta get back to set, I just wanted you know I love you.
Brittany frowned.
TO SAN: I know how much you love me San, everything ok?
FROM SAN: I'm fine Brit, see you tomorrow :) XOXOXOXO
Brittany stared at her phone for several minutes when there was a knock at the office door.
"Come in!" She called out while going over her checklist again.
"It looks great in here Brittany." Anthony replied while walking in the studio.
Brittany quickly stood up. "Don't close the door, I want it open." She said sternly.
Anthony took his hand off the door and nodded as he walked further in. "This looks even more amazing than the LA studio."
"Why are you still in New York?" Brittany then glanced at her watch. "You should be teaching a class right now actually in LA." She said angrily.
"I got someone to cover for me." Anthony shrugged. "I wanted to help out here."
"We don't need your help out here, I pay you teach dance, not to follow me about the country." Brittany replied.
"I thought we were friends." Anthony feigned hurt.
"No," Brittany shook her head. "I'm your boss and you're my employee."
"You're the boss, hmmmmmmmmmm that sounds hot, I bet you and Santana role play in the bedroom." He laughed out. "I find it hard to believe you're in charge in the bedroom."
Brittany quickly got flustered and dropped her ipad. "Get the hell out of this office, you're suspended from work for two weeks."
"For what?!" Anthony yelled.
"Insubordination, sexual harassment, ummmm stalking. Whatever you want to call it." Brittany said shakily. "Tom!" She then called out.
Tom came running back to the office. "What's wrong?"
"I need him gone, immediately." Brittany said while picking up her ipad and groaning when she saw the screen cracked when she dropped it. "Fuck." She said angrily while sinking back in her chair.
She then picked up her phone and called the studio back in LA.
Fierce Pierce Dance Academy this is Vanessa speaking, how can I help you?
Hi Vanessa, it's Brittany
Hey Brittany, how's New York?
It's ok, studio is coming along, it'll be ready for the grand opening show in January
Great, I can't wait
I need a favor, can you switch some things around on the teaching schedule, take Anthony for the next 2 weeks, write down that I'll be covering his classes.
Ok, anything else?
Yeah, I want my travel schedule taken down from everywhere in the office, I want a new work cellphone ordered with a new number, I need a new ipad purchased, and I want Mackenzie off the books for ballet unless I'm there, so take her name off everything.
Ok, anything else?
No, that's it. I'm coming back early so I'll see you tomorrow
Ok, have a safe flight.
Thanks
Brittany turned off her phone and gathered up her belongings and walked to the main part of the studio. "Nikco, I'm heading back to LA. Call me if you need anything. I don't want Anthony back in this studio."
Nikco nodded. "Why is he even here?"
"I don't know." She said softly. "Tom is my limo here?"
Tom nodded. "Yes it is, ready?"
Brittany nodded. "I need to swing by the hotel and grab my suitcase."
"Ok."
9pm LA
"Mommy can I go?" Ashton asked while running into the living room where Santana was waiting for the limo with Noah. "I'm already dressed."
"Is your homework done?" Santana asked him.
Ashton quickly nodded. "Yeah it is."
"Ok, go grab a jacket, it's cool out tonight." Santana said quickly. "Hurry up Grey."
"Can I go?" Carter asked.
Santana shook her head. "It's bed time for you."
Mrs. Pierce came in the room holding Mackenzie, who was sound asleep. "We are going to head out Santana."
Santana stood up and kissed Mackenzie on the cheek and ran her fingers through her hair. "Ok, thanks again."
"You don't have to thank me for watching my grandkids." Mrs. Pierce smiled. "Carter grab your bag honey."
"Noah, carry Mackey for Grammy to the car." Santana said while pulling out her phone and dialing Brittany's number.
This is Brittany, I can't come to the phone right now leave your name and number after the beep and I'll call you back when I can. Thanks
Hey Brit, this is me, I um, I'm headed to the show now to perform and I just kind of wanted and needed to hear your voice. Call me back as soon as you can. Love you
"I'm honored to have Mrs. Santana Lopez-Pierce on the show tonight." Jimmy Kimmel said while clapping. "How gorgeous is she?!"
The crowd erupted in applause and cheers.
Santana smiled. "Thank you Jimmy."
"So, your new album comes out in just 2 weeks." He asked.
Santana nodded. "Yeah it does, it's called Meant To Be and it's dedicated to my wife Brittany."
"She's on the single 'Meant To Be' with you right?" He asked.
Santana smiled. "Yeah she is, we are going to be shooting the video very, very soon, and it'll have our kids in it." Santana paused momentarily when she felt her hands began to shake slightly.
"Speaking of your kids, your oldest son Noah produced quite a few tracks on the album for you."
Santana smiled and cleared her throat. "Yeah he did, he wrote a number of them as well."
"He's only 15 right?" Jimmy asked.
Santana laughed. "Yeah he is, he's so talented, I couldn't be any prouder of him."
"So what are you going to perform for us tonight?" Jimmy asked.
"I'm going to perform the song that Noah first wrote and produced for me, the lead single from the album 'Couple of Forevers'" Santana told him.
"You have quite the schedule coming up including the 10th anniversary banquet for you women's center Lopez Lovez." Jimmy stated. "Let's talk about that."
Santana nodded. "I started Lopez Lovez 10 years ago when the man that raped me, um, passed away and left me all his money and assets." She said shakily. "I took the money and created a center and foundation for women that have been abused, are battling addiction, or living with a mental illness. It's free to them, we provide housing, food, medication attention, and help them if they are displaced. The banquet has some celebrity guest speakers that will talk about their own past struggles including Broadway star Rachel Berry, and my best friend Quinn Puckerman, who is a celebrity real estate agent."
"I know Quinn, she sold me my house." Jimmy nodded. "Really sweet woman."
"Yeah she is, I, I'll also be talking about my past struggles as well." Santana explained.
"Whoa, that's pretty noble." Jimmy told her.
"It will be a great event, I think there are tickets still available, you can check the website for more information." Santana said. "We're also going to be providing 2000 families with a Thanksgiving dinner, so if you would like to help out with that and make a donation, you can do that on the website as well."
"Well put me down for a $10,000 donation." Jimmy said with a smile.
"Seriously?" Santana exclaimed.
"Absolutely, I'm all for helping people around the holidays." Jimmy told her. "Go to the website and donate people that's everyone, go donate whatever you can. We'll be right back with a performance from Santana after the break." Jimmy screamed out while clapping.
Santana was pacing her dressing room while trying to call Brittany again. "I need to hear your voice before I perform Brit…..please answer." She said softly.
Brittany was standing in baggage claim grabbing her suitcase when she felt her phone vibrate. She quickly rummaged through her purse to answer but by the time she pulled it out she missed Santana's call. "Shit, sorry San." She said to herself while calling her back as Tom grabbed her suitcase and led her to the limo.
Santana sighed and handed her phone to Emily. "She must be in a meeting, she didn't answer again." Santana said sadly.
"We need you on set Santana." One of the stage managers said with a smile.
Santana shook her shaking hands. "Ok." She then followed the man out. She stopped side stage and kissed Ashton and Noah both on the cheek while smiling before heading out on stage.
Right after Santana left the room and went on stage Emily got Brittany's call.
She's on stage now Brittany, I'm sorry you just missed her
Dammit! Ok thanks Emily
Santana sat on a stool in the middle of the stage with the lights out as she started every performance. The violins, drums, and piano began to softly play the intro to her song as the lights turned up slightly on her. She balled her hands into fists to stop them from shaking as she began to sing.
I see it clear, my heart is here
We got each other, let's take it from there
And if I could I'd love you forever at a time Oh, oh, oh
What we been through no one else knows
Cause all that matters is how far this goes
Her voice began to crack slightly as she started the next part.
And it will go until it starts again, Oh, oh
Me and you are built like armor
Nothing can stop love from loving on us
You know I'm not asking for much
She stood up shakily from the stool she was sitting on and grabbed the mic off the stand slowly and sang shakily
Just a couple of forevers
A couple of forevers
I'm the only one, you are the only one
Together til never
Santana sniffled as the warm tears began to cascade out of her eyes.
"Shit." Mercedes said while watching the performance. "Oh San….." She added softly as she helplessly watched her friend fall apart on TV.
Santana paused as the band continued to play, she shook her head and tried to focus but she couldn't control the shaking in her hands as her knees weakened and began to shake as well. She cleared her voice and softy croaked out the next verse
It can get hard, damn it gets rough
It can get crazy but not for us
Guess we gotta struggle just to stay apart
Me and you are built like armor
Nothing can stop love from loving on us
You know I'm not asking for much
"She's crashing…." Quinn said with tears in her eyes while she laid in bed with Puck as they watched the show on TV. "She's crashing live on TV." Puck exhaled slowly and held Quinn tighter as she shook with her own tears. "I should have tried harder with her." She said softly.
"What's happening to mommy?" Ashton asked Noah. "She's not singing right."
"I, I don't know." Noah replied.
"Drive faster!" Brittany yelled at the limo driver after watching the performance via Skype with Hannah on her phone. "I need to get to the studio!"
Santana was now shaking hard as she choked out the next part. She tried to put the microphone back in the stand but ended up knocking the stand over since her hands were shaking so bad.
Just a couple of forevers
A couple of forevers oh, ooh
I'm the only one, you are the only one
Together til never
"I…I…" She stuttered out as Noah ran out on stage and grabbed the microphone from her. He wrapped his arm around her waist to steady her and began to finish the song for her.
All I'm talking about forever
Just a couple of forevers
A couple of forevers, oh
I'm the only one, you the only one
Together til never, never never
Ladies and Gentlemen Mr Noah Lopez-Pierce the announcer boomed out as the crowd stayed silent in a mixture of shock, fear, and concern.
"I need to fuckin get there!" Brittany cried out. "Please drive faster, I'll pay whatever tickets you get."
"We are a block away ma'am." The driver rushed out while dodging between cars.
"Oh sweetheart." Mrs. Pierce said softly with tears in her eyes as she stared at the TV.
Noah hugged Santana tightly and continued to sing while walking her back to the stool. She shakily sat down, never letting his hand go.
Can you see it, oh oh ooh oh
Can you see the signs from above
It's so blinding, there's no denying you and me
Noah glanced down at Santana and continued singing as she leaned into his embrace; he held her hand tightly while rubbing his thumb over her knuckles hoping to still her hands. He took a deep breath and sang the final part of the song.
You and me are built like armor
Nothing can stop love from loving on us
And I'm not asking you for much
A couple of forevers
Ever, Ever
I'm the only one, you the only one
Together til never
Once Noah finished singing, the band stopped playing as an eerie silence covered the studio audience. Santana choked out a sob and ran off stage, Noah dropped the mic and ran after her.
"We, we'll be back after this b-break." Jimmy said softly before running off set after Santana as well.
"What just happened?" Finn turned and asked Rachel.
"She crashed, live on TV." Rachel said sadly. "We need to get back to LA." She added while jumping out of bed.
The limo came to a screeching halt as Brittany jumped out and ran past security through the studio to find her wife. "San!" She screamed out while running as fast as she could to where she remembered the green room was.
"I'll have the label issue a statement." Zack said while pulling out his phone and quickly calling the label's publicist. He kissed Mercedes on the cheek and left the room.
"Dammit San." Mercedes said while wiping the tears sliding down her face.
Brittany ran into the room and saw Santana sobbing hysterically in Noah's arms. "San…."
Santana looked up and quickly ran to Brittany hugging her tightly. "I just ruined my career Brit."
"Shhhhhhhhh." Brittany said while rubbing her back and rocking her side to side slowly.
"I need my pills." Santana cried into her shoulder.
"Emily, go to the limo and get my purse please, Santana needs to take her anxiety pills. Please hurry." Brittany stated softly.
Noah's phone beeped with a text message. He pulled his phone out and saw Karly texted him a picture of a headline from E! News Twitter account.
Grammy award winner Santana Lopez has melt down on Jimmy Kimmel Live
She then sent a follow up text with a picture from ABC NEWS Twitter account.
Santana Lopez falls apart on stage, details emerging
She then sent a final text with TMZ's account.
Couple of Forevers or Couple of Breakdowns…watch Santana Lopez blow her performance on Jimmy Kimmel Live
Noah threw his phone against the wall and went over and wrapped his arms around his mothers hugging them tightly.
Super long chapter...sorry.
Thoughts?