Bananarama was singing that it was a Cruel Summer on the jukebox in the bowling alley while April wiped down tables, singing along with Barry who was filling the soda machine when Bo made his way over to the counter.
" Hi Mom"
" Bo," April reached across to give him a hug ," hey there, sugar. This is a nice surprise ..figured you'd be spending your day off with your girlfriend '
" Mercedes has extra Glee practice today," told Bo," their getting ready for that Rotary thing in the park that they are singing at …"
" gotcha ," said April then turned towards the owner /boss/friend," Barry, why don't you fix me and my son here a couple of the cheeseburger specials so we can talk for a spell"
" Fine but this is your break, April" said Barry, heading into the kitchen.
" Oh, stick a sock in it ,Barry," called April, leading Bo over to a small table ," now pull up a chair and talk to your old mom ..well, I'm not that old "
Bo snickered," If you say so "
He slid into a chair, reaching across the table for his mom's hand .
" Mercedes folks had nothing but good things to say about you , Mom"
" I liked them," declared April, honestly," Ruby and Justus are good folks. They never once jumped me over my past or anything " She paused , her blue eyes twinkling in merriment ," and your pretty much crazy mad for Mercedes."
" I love her," stated Bo, plainly," pretty sure Mercedes feels the same way about me but she refuses to budge. Actually she wont say it back …."
April's smile was understanding .She had so been there. " I think you already figured out she's protecting her ole heart - and makes sense cause your older than she is . I know you don't plan on hitching your star on the same path me and your dad once took…"
" Mercedes and I aren't running off , Mom" pointed out Bo, matter of factly," and I am not that much older than her. I was thinking about taking some online classes for college ..its not Paris or anything but I think if I stay here I can swing it "
" Honey," April smoothed her lips," online cooking classes isn't something you want. Your much better than that " She blew out a breath," you know, Summer is almost coming to an end …"
Bo sat back in his chair cause he had been expecting this.
" Your going back to Branson and your life you started there .."
" Afraid so," admitted a solemn April," you know I have a real life there . This was my vacation to get to know my son and I couldn't be happier .."
" Mom, don't sing ," said Bo," and you don't owe me an explanation "
" I think as your momma I do," replied April," it would kill me if you thought that I was walking away from you ..deserting you again like I have "
Bo squeezed her hand. " Mom, I'm not 6 anymore ," said Bo," I get it. I'm really proud that you've got it all together, Mom, cause I know it wasn't easy for you"
" It has been area good summer for us ," smiled April," and don't think that I am about to let that slip away from us. Cause I wont ever let that happen again…and I haven't given up hope that your sister will eventually stop hating my guts "
Bo chuckled," I am working on Pam ..she'll come around eventually "
" At least she hasn't deleted me off of her twitter account " said April," its not much but I reckon I will take what I can get. Girls as stubborn as Vinnie "
" Branson isn't that far away, mom," added Bo," and road trip might be fun"
" You'd come see me ?" asked April, thrilled and also knowing that this was the opening that she needed to say what she wanted to say.
" Sure " Bo cracked a wide grin," I always wanted to take a dinner cruise on a showboat "
" Funny ," said April, growing serious," but I am glad you brought that up because it got me thinking about your future. "
" I'm not going to some college ," cut in Bo," online courses I can handle but the whole college thing is Pam. Not me ..so my plan is just good for right now "
" Worrying about right now is what has always landed me in a pickle and never getting me anything real " reminded April, gently," I'm doing much better now but I don't want you bouncing from town to town or worse staying in Lima "
" I like Lima "
" You like Lima because the girl your in love with is here ," stated April," and much as I think Mercedes is precious , she wont want you staying in this town for her "
" Mom," growled Bo, starting to get agitated," don't meddle in my love life "
" I wasn't meddling ," countered April," okay your sister is as smart as your dad and wants the whole Ivy college thing. I get that . You are like me…except that you are one hell of a talented chef that needs to get real experience with those kick butt skills"
Bo heaved a sigh. " Mom, please, don't …I know that you mean well but I don't want to hear some crazy scheme you've cooked up over my..cooking " he sputtered at his own words," I keep expecting Mercedes to be secretly enrolling me in culinary school and having artie forge all of my transcripts or something to the Cordon bleu"
" It isn't crazy ," informed April, like a dog with a bone." make me proud to know that some of the skills I taught those kids a ways back was put to good use "
Bo lifted a brow. " no one will tell me what those were, Mom"
April waved a hand in the air, dismissing it. "Never mind ," went on April," look you cook way more fancy than what little ole Lima deserves. Now here me out before you go ignoring me and pretending I don't know what I am talking about .."
" Fine ," agreed Bo," but it doesn't mean that I will do it, Mom"
" Fair enough," stated April," okay, the chef aboard the Belle isn't just some guy off the street that can cook, he's an honest to god chef with credentials and a plaque "
Since he seemed to actually be listening to her, she took it as a good sign and plunged forward," he is also a friend of mine, Louis Ribedeaux is his name. He used to be a big deal in Charleston, South Carolina but he wanted something different for a change "
" Are you dating him?" asked Bo, because he knew his mother .
April smacked his arm,lightly. " No, I'm not dating Louie ," defended April," and I'm not sleeping with him either. Lookee here , there you go interrupting me again..anyway I have been talking to him about your skills in the kitchen. Bragging , really "
" Mom, " interrupted Bo," just say it "
" Your no fun," continued April with a pout," so we've been chatting and turns out he's been shopping for a sous chef for his kitchen on the Belle so I mentioned you"
Bo shook his head, just shocked at his mothers audacity sometimes. Okay he knew she meant well and wanted what was right for him but this was totally insane .
" Mom, I have absolutely no experience whatsoever to even consider or be qualified as someone's sous chef. Unless this is a trick and I'm going to be on Amateur Chefs "
" Don't I wish," remarked April," don't get your britches in a bunch, Louie knows all of that. I told him that and sent him some of those amazing dinners you made for our dinners -cost me 18.56 to ship em to him but I did . The thing here is that he's old school chef and he was so impressed that he is willing to train you the same way that he was in his day.
He wants you, if your interested …"
" Your not kidding ," repeated a stunned Bo," he wants to hire me even though he knows nothing about me or you could be lying cause I'm your son"
" No , I'm not kidding ," said April with a laugh," and he wants to talk to you. He has that Skype thing but I have his number and his email , too , if you want it. .It's your life, Beauregard Brady Rhodes and as your Mama , I just want the best for my son "
He accepted the post it note and stared hard at the number written on it.
" A sous chef …." repeated Bo, " that is like a hurdle in the right direction"
" So give him a call and talk to him about it ," urged April," I sure would love it if you were working on the same boat as me. "
" Fine," declared Bo, wondering if this was even remotely a possibility ," I'll call the guy, Mom, but no promises. You could have misunderstood him,too"
" That's my boy," April pounded her fist on the table, " whooee I'm so excited "
" Don't get your hopes up, Mom," reminded Bo," I just said I would talk to him. "
" That's plenty good enough for me ' stated April, " call Louie right now "
SH
Kurt woke up to the sound of his fathers off key version of Feel Like making Love and knew already it was one of those days. There was no more pretending that his fathers infatuation with Carole Hudson was more than that and if he hazard a guess, he almost believed Burt to be in love with the woman. It was a much too weighty thought to contemplate before he had his morning coffee and money was a bit tight.
He still had a back to school shopping spree with Mercedes and Rachel , after all.
He bypassed Starbucks in favor of the Lima Bean, it was a smaller coffee shop and less pricey but it would do in a pinch. Not to mention their coupons helped shave off 20% and that was money that he could use elsewhere -like on surprising Rachel with a soft , romantic sundress he'd found online at a killer price.
He was deliberating the must have items for fall as he waited in line while listening to Mercedes rant on the cell.
" I don't know why we don't invest in an espresso machine for glee ," said Kurt," it would be a necessity for everyone. Yes, I am getting your decaf frappe , Cedes "
" Thank God ," breathed Mercedes," Mom has banned dad from coffee this week which means that we..meaning me ..must suffer too "
" Understood and I have got you covered " assured Kurt, not noticing the striking dark figure in pressed khaki shorts and a dark blue button down shirt slide beside him.
He hung up the phone and was thankful that there wasn't a really se t time for summer glee and that was generally late as well
" Buying your girlfriend her morning fix ?" asked the dark haired young man, his gaze frank. He carried himself with a confidence much older than that of a 16 year old.
Kurt turned and found himself staring at the same handsome young man from star bucks , and felt his breath whoosh out of him at the nearness. Oh my Kurt Hummel .
" Uh, girlfriend," Kurt laughed, nervously," no. No ..best friend . "
" Oh," his smile was charming ," of course, I should have known. Its nice to run into you again…we met a while back at star bucks for our morning ritual coffee'
" I remember you…" squeaked Kurt, wiping his clammy palms on his pants.
" Blaine Anderson," he introduced himself, cordially," and you are…?"
" Kurt Hummel " Kurt managed a tremulous smile as butterflies cavorted and danced wildly as if they were on some kind of drug in his pit of stomach.
" It's nice , really nice to meet you, Blaine "
Blaine smiled and shook his hand, holding it a tad bit longer than necessary.
Are you gay?
Kurt wanted to scream it but was too afraid of being painfully wrong ..yet again.
A guy could only take so much heartache.
He refrained from asking the question and let go of his hand. " Blaine "
Blaine chuckled ," I like star bucks but this place is a much better alternative . Not only is the atmosphere charming and a throwback to the mid 90's but cheaper '
" there is that ," answered Kurt," and the coffee is quite good. Better than McDonalds anyhow ..and the croissants and Danishes are simply the best in town "
" I do like a croissant upon occasion.." said Blaine, meeting his gaze.
Kurt couldn't decide if he was flirting with him so he just smiled , thinly.
He blushed ," perhaps we could share a quick breakfast….."
" Kurt , dude ," Sam Evans rushed in, cutting in between them," hey, I thought I would find you here. I think its really important that we talk …."
Kurt sucked in a breath and refrained from being rude to Sam. " What exactly are you doing here , Sam ? It's barely eight -thirty in the morning and unlike the rest of us, this is your summer and you do not have glee practice this morning "
He didn't notice the spark of interest flicker in Blaine's eye at the mention of glee.
" I should let you..two talk in private ," said Blaine," ah, my turn anyhow "
He nodded politely at Kurt and moved to place his order at the counter.
Damn!
Kurt turned to Sam, slightly miffed. " You couldn't have sent me a text , a tweet, email"
" didn't think that would be the cool thing to do," said Sam," sides Bo figured you would be either here or at star bucks . Could we please sit down and talk, Kurt ?"
They slid into a table, Kurt more than slightly perturbed.
" Mercedes boyfriend knows my schedule ," said Kurt," I've become predictable "
" ran into him first " answered Sam, truthfully," sorry I interrupted "
"it's done ," dismissed Kurt, crossing his arms," and to what do I owe this visit, Sam ? I mean, you barge into the Lima Bean as if your ready to make proclamations of affections towards me. Since I doubt that is the case, I have practice in 15 minutes "
He crossed his legs and tried to keep his heart from beating . For he knew that was another hopeless romantic dream that wouldn't come to fruition.
" Speak, I mean, its obviously important if you have tracked me down here "
Sam shifted uncomfortable in his chair." I think that you are really cool, Kurt "
This was too familiar . Kurt closed his eyes, opened them, and composed himself.
Sam continued ," The thing is I think we ..you and me..like got our wires crossed, dude. Its partially my fault cause before I moved here I went to an all guys school so maybe I came on too strong since I wanted to make friends and everything …"
" Came on too strong ," Kurt managed a laugh tinged with bitterness around the edges," is that what you would call it? Oh why would I ever misentrept your constant attentions towards me as romantic intrest ? I mean , the flirting was obvious to all "
Sam expression was terse." I'm not gay," swore Sam," and I'm sorry if I..somehow misled you but the fact is that I like girls. "
" I have 3 witnesses that will attest to the fact you were indeed coming on to me "
Sam's lips thinned ," Which is why I wanted to clear the air between us. Your pretty cool , Kurt, and I respect that your gay or whatever but we're bros. friends and I really don't want to lose that friendship before I start up at McKinley. You guys kind of have me sort of freaked about what to expect there once school starts as it is .."
Kurt sat up straighter in his chair. " of course because why should anything be different "
" Despite the fact that hair color isn't natural," informed Kurt," I don't take friendships lightly myself . So this isn't the problem you seem to think it was to be, Sam "
" good " Sam breathed a sigh of relief," I hope your feelings are hurt or anything '
" I am fine " assured Kurt, glancing curiously out of the corner of his eye at Blaine ," you needn't worry about my feelings. "
" I know you put the moves on Rachel …" dropped Kurt ," and I must say your fortunate to be standing. Finn has quite a temper and he is deeply in love with Rachel "
He winced," I got that idea when he threatened to kill me. "
Kurt couldn't resist the small smile curving around his mouth. " you never stood a chance with Rachel. My friend is devoted to Finn "
Sam nodded." I am sorry ," Sam still felt as if things weren't resolved with Kurt .he hated tension and fighting and stuff ," so I didn't screw up our friendship at all"
Kurt weighed his options." your sorry but yet you don't deny that you flirted with me," went on Kurt ," I know flirting . You flirted right back…"
" I don't know," Sam heaved a sigh," cant we just like forget that we talked about this ? Just be friends and bros since its what guys do. You know , a bromance that isn't really anything but they talk about them all the time on TV and stuff.."
Kurt rolled his eyes upwards." God, just stop! Please, you sound like Finn "
" You were my first real friend when I got here ,Kurt ," told Sam with sincerity," and it'd be cool if you had my back when school starts up.."
Kurt watched as his own fairytale romance complete with sam as the dashing blonde prince faded away in his mind blurred by a charismatic smile and dark hair and that knock of resignation he was familiar with sunk heartily in.
" Once again, Sam, I am not that petty," said Kurt with a dismissive gesture," well, I can be but not about this. This will not affect our me when I say that I adjust quite well these days and this isn't the first misunderstanding I have had "
" Good ," replied Sam," I was worried for a while about that. "
Mercedes and Tina had told him of Kurt's crush on Finn last year and how it had resolved.
" Kurt " Blaine stopped in front of the table , two cups of coffee in his hands," I hope I'm not interrupting a date or anything .."
" It's not a date ' Sam was quick to answer for his friend .
" Sam and I are just bros " Kurt borrowed the phrase," of course not , Blaine "
" I took the liberty of ordering you that coffee," Blaine sat the paper cup on the table," maybe we could table the conversation and breakfast for another time "
" Now is good ,' stumbled a nervous Kurt," really, I have time "
Blaine smiled back at him." Unfortunately I don't so rain check "
His eyes lingered on the shorter young man ," As new friends, of course "
Without waiting for Kurt to answer or get over his initial shock, Blaine simply gave a wave and walked out of the coffee shop , unaware of his reaction to him.
" Blaine , wait ," Kurt stood up, crestfallen," dammit, where did he go?"
" Out the door ," informed Sam," and that dude was hitting on you like big time "
" Only in my wildest dreams," sighed Kurt with an offhand wave," and now I have to get Mercedes coffee and be incredibly late to glee practice. "
Sam rose " have fun "
" You should still consider trying out for glee " added Kurt ," also unless you have a death wish, it wouldn't pay for you to continue hitting on Rachel "
Sam flashed a cash grin." Not that interested in Rachel," confessed Sam ," she's pretty and all but I kind of have my eye on this other girl "
Kurt opened his mouth then closed it quickly.
Somehow he had a feeling that he was better off being in the dark here .
SH
Meanwhile at the Fabray-Puckerman apartment, Beth was wailing quite loudly , shaking her head, her little face turning red from assertation as Quinn paced about the living room , holding her close and feeling as if she should know why she was this upset.
She was her mother, for Gods sake .
" Ssssh, Bethy ," Quinn murmured , soothingly against her hair,' momma has you. What's the matter ? Oh…oh , now baby, daddy just changed you so you cant be we t"
A worried Puck hovered by her, arms out." give me her ," ordered the nervous father," maybe she pooped again. That is her shitty ..crap..dirty diaper cry, Q "
" Her diaper isn't dirty ," argued Quinn," I just checked . She's just fussy , that's it "
Puck expression was grim." She's crying like she is in fucking pain, Q"
Quinn felt her forehead and cheek." She feels just fine "
" Lets take her to the doctor " stated puck," I'll just call or hell, we'll take her in to the hospital in case its serious. Babies get serious things sometimes…. I don't want o screw around and take a chance with Beth..just let me text Berry about us not going to glee "
Quinn sshed her daughter , rubbing her back and Beth cried but rested her head against her mothers shoulder." I don't think she needs a doctor, Puck. She doesn't want her bottle , I..I just think she wants her Mommy to hold her "
Puck eyed her suspiciously." Are you sure ? Cause she's been screaming for like 15 fucking minutes, Q? maybe she has that colic…I think Mom said I had that when I was a baby so we should make sure that Beth didn't like get that from me "
" It isn't colic," declared Quinn," I'm gonna stay home with her today though "
" Then we're both staying home with her " decided puck,' we can take turns watching her
" There isn't any need for us both to miss practice," said Quinn as Beth's cries started to subside ," I don't think its anything for us to freak out about , Puck. Maybe she didn't get enough sleep …so I am going to rock her "
" Are you sure she isn't hot or anything ?" fretted a worried Puck," I can get that fancy thermometer thing that Ms.P got us and we can make sure "
" She feels fine " stated Quinn, edgily,' I would know if she had a fever "
" I would still feel better if we took her to the hospital," said puck," I worked extra hours at the pools in Carmel so we got some money to spare "
Quinn handed Beth over to Puck." NO. No doctor, I will take her temp but I am right "
Beth looked at her father with watery eyes and he kissed her cheek.
" I think Mommy didn't get enough sleep is more like it "
Quinn pursed her lips and came out with the thermometer." Hold her still "
Puck made a face," Damn Quinn, cant we lay her down first ? God, why do we have to take her temperature there ? No wonder she's gonna scream..I would scream if you stuck that thing in there too…." he cuddled Beth closer to him, protectively.
" this is more accurate for babies her age " said Quinn, calmly.
" Torture is more like it " grumbled Puck," vicious woman "
" You're the one who wants to take her to the hospital " reminded Quinn," she is fussy"
After about ten minutes of arguing and a screaming Beth, her temperature was taken.
She was perfectly fine and pissed as her daddy was.
Quinn ran a tired hand through her disc helved blonde hair and retrieved her daughter from Puck. " She wants me. You can go to Glee practice now …."
Puck set his jaw and knew something was going on with her. " We fucking make the decisions about Beth together so don't tell me what to do "
" Fine don't go to glee but I need to take care of Beth," declared Quinn, succinctly ," alone . You can do whatever the hell you want , Puck "
" I don't know what crawled up your ass this morning, babe , but I think I'd rather let mom watch Beth right now rather than you "
" I don't need your Mom to watch my daughter ,' exploded Quinn, " when I am perfectly capable of taking care of her myself. I am not my mom…I care "
Right , so this had something to do with Judy and that was never good.
" I think you should calm down and I'll take Beth with me to practice " treaded puck, carefully. " maybe you need to skip and take a nap or something "
Quinn's hazel eyes burned into him making him wince. " Just go "
Beth was just whimpering now and well, much as Quinn could be moody and scary sometimes it wasn't like she would ever mistreat their daughter or anything.
Maybe if he just let it go and let her have mommy and me time she'd get over whatever it was that she was in a pissed off bitchy mood over.
They hadn't even had sex again and puck was thinking maybe he ought to work on that.
" Fine " puck gave her a hard kiss," stop being such a bitch "
" Don't cuss ," warned Quinn," if her first word is a swear I will kill you "
He kissed the top of Beth's head, grabbed his car keys , and flew out of the apartment leaving mother and daughter alone .
" you just wanted mommy ,' murmured Quinn, a strong sense of sadness surrounding her ," its alright to want mommy. A girl is suppose to need her mom and be there for her '
A tear slid under her lashes." I love my Beth so much ..I ..I cant believe I ever ..was going to give you …up " she choked on the admission because it had been set in stone for so long before she had changed her mind ," daddy and I were ..we weren't together . "
More tears gathered in her hazel eyes and slid silently tracking the tears down her cheeks.
" I was with ..well, your uncle Finn but that's not important. I didn't get how much I loved you until your daddy sang to me your name and then I knew "
Beth nestled closer unaware of her mothers turmoil in her heart.
" God, I am a horrible Mom who was going to give you up to a crazy lady "
The tears came hot and fast as Beth and Quinn cried together ." I ..I promise I will make it up to you…you see, bethy . I love you soooo much, Mommy loves you "
SH
Not far away in the Lima Heights Adjacent , Santana was still trying to get on her mothers good side after the whole bikini issue . Her disappointment was obvious and despite the fact that she had actually apologized a couple of times , things were pretty tense around the Lopez household.
Even Santana was uncomfortable which she really hated.
" Here, Mom,' Santana placed a glass of orange juice in front of her mother," drink your juice. We're out of coffee and I know you haven't been to the store yet "
Maria placed the checkbook aside and took a drink.' thank you, Santana , but sucking up to me will still not convince me to change my mind about your punishment "
" I know I was wrong," Santana tried another tactic," but that's mean, Mom. You know I busted my ass to beat fabray out of the top spot on the Cheerios and its mine "
" I know that you love being a cheerleader but there is more to life than that ," explained Maria ," despite what that psycho coach of yours tells you girls behavior like that isn't right . You know how I feel about this stupid power trip you seem to be on.."
" You have no clue , Mother ," informed Santana ," I need that power "
" it's how I stay strong at that school and on top "
" I know that McKinley isn't the greatest school but your behavior bothers me " said Maria ," and you don't talk to me so maybe if I take this away, some of that attitude will go away . Unless this is your way of telling me you would rather live with your dad "
" Mom, I don't want to live with Dad ," insisted a serious and still angry Santana ," the cash is great but I don't need to see his parade of sluts of the week "
Maria considered reprimanding her but decided to stay silent here since she actually agreed with her daughter on this subject. " I am still not entirely pleased with what I learned from talking to the other parents …your behavior shames me. "
" isn't suppose to gossip about us !' said an outraged Santana
" It wasn't your teacher ," explained Maria ,gripping her juice glass," it was that nice Burt Hummel. Apparently his son shares his life with him and honestly you seduced that nice Finn Hudson out of spite ….I have failed as a parent "
Santana flamed red and wanted to scream. Great, fucking great !
Now her Mom knew about her taking Finn's v-card. Perfect.
Hummel was six kinds of dead when she saw him in glee .
" I needed a younger man for Sue's new Madonna weeek ," said Santana ," Finn is younger than me. God, mom, you need to get over this whole shocked thing and its not like you don't know I haven't been having sex or anything "
Maria shook her head in distress." you knew he liked this other girl "
Santana rolled her eyes again . Just how much did Kurt tell his dad ?
" manhands , yea, we all knew he was nuts over Berry ," went on Santana , determined to turn this around for the better," it wasn't a big deal. It was sex. "
" It is not right for you to have your fathers attitude on this ," Maria was frustrated beyond belief," can you not see that ? Is this how you look at your relationship with poor Matt or do you plan on breaking that poor boys heart again ? "
" so I'm like Dad ," Santana shrugged , nonchalantly ," look I know your hoping I was like secretly in love with Finnocence or some shit like that but that wasn't the deal. It was a one time only thing cause I needed the power boost and he thought Berry was doing . Matt is different , okay "
" there is so much wrong with that , young lady , but what is this about Matt ?"
" Look Mom, don't get all excited or anything but I think Matt is like the real deal. "
The juice sat and Maria stared hard at her daughter , knowing true well that she ought to be trying to get through to her about her cavalier attitude but somewhere through all that Bs was some truth. It was progress, slight , but still progress that she was willing to actually talk about a relationship. Santana tended to avoid that as much as she avoided chic flicks and shopping at a discount store but then she was still just 16.
" Your happy ..you seem happy with Matt ? I think this is the first summer I haven't caught you with a different guy …."
" don't get all sappy ," said Santana ," I am happy. Matt and I are actually good and he's suddenly all about us and the words which is really not me "
Maria reached across the table and clasped her hand," Matt is in love with you"
She heaved a sigh ," That's what he tells me and I..I love him back , okay "
" Oh Blessed Mary " Maria hugged her daughter ,' I so hoped for this "
" Damn, Mom, " grumbled Santana ," relax. It's not that big of a deal and wasn't it you that has been harping on my ass because I never talk to you about this shit "
" You don't though you have no problem mortifying me with your behavior "
Santana grinned at that." that's more for me. Your expression is awesome "
" Look Matt can be way too quiet sometimes and he has awful taste in movies but he makes me feel important and special. I love him too, that's the truth "
A smile wreathed Maria's face at her daughters admission and the cheerleading issue was pushed on the backburner. " Your in love with the boy"
" Didn't I just tell you I am ," Santana shifted uncomfortably not used to sharing her feelings ," and I don't go around blabbing this to everyone. You, me, Matt, of course, and Brittany ..that's it. Alright , Mom?"
" it doesn't make you less a person for falling in love " said Maria , knowingly.
" I'm not sappy and emotional over this …" insisted Santana , softly.
" I never expected that you would be ," Maria squeezed her hand, pushed a lock of dark hair from her shoulder," and I am privileged that you told me, honey. I think the world of Matt ..I also believe that he is good for you"
Santana shrugged, as if it made no difference one way or the other.
" He does keep me from killing Berry on a regular basis …."
" Good for him," laughed Maria," and what have I told you about tormenting that girl "
" Its not fault Berry is an easy target " commented Santana with a smirk.
" I don't care, " countered her mother," you need to stop it. Now does Matt return your feelings ? Surely he does …..I have seen the way that he looks at you "
Santana couldn't resist the grin curving around her red lips. " Matt is so in love with me that I have him eating out of the palm of my hand "
" I am so thrilled for you " Maria hugged her daughter ," I have wanted this for you for so long. I have been terrified that you would kick love to the curb, Santana Maria "
" MOM!" Santana drew back ," don't go nuts over this. Its not that big of a deal "
" I think that is a very big deal…" said Maria , firmly .
She stood and smiled at her daughter who wore her trademark scowl /smirk when the conversation turned a bit more emotional than she liked . She had so much of her father in her and the divorce had only made her harden her heart more.
" Fine I'm in love with my boyfriend ," stated Santana ," and I really like glee , okay "
" Good now promise me no more hoochie outfits ?"
Her mom was really loving this whole sharing thing. " I wont dress like a slut "
" thank you," told Maria ," and no more dad approved outfits either. I don't care how expensive it is or anything , I cant trust your fathers judgment but I would hope that I can trust your judgement , young lady "
" I promise ," Santana was sincere," believe me, Matt gave me enough grief over my bikini even though he thought I was totally hot in it . "
Her mother gave her a disapproving eye ," It was inappropriate , Santana "
Reluctantly Santana just nodded ,' believe me, I wont do it again "
Before she could turn it back around to her life as a head Cheerio, her cell went off .
" Hey Britt , what's going on ?"
" I think Lord Tubbington is going through depression," explained Brittany, " I think if I took him to glee with us it might really lift up his spirits "
Santana bit her lip to refrain from laughing . It was incredibly silly but her best friend adored that oversized cat. " I don't think glee would cheer him up, Britt, butm maybe we can pick him up a new toy or something later "
" You always know just what he needs , San," smiled Brittany," thanks "
She paused to look at her severely overweight fluffy cat named Lord tubbington .
' I don't think the diet is helping much. Maybe he needs more exercise .."
' Let him run through your sisters room …." suggested Santana , helpfully.
" Oh I can do that ," perked up Brittany ," so, I'm almost ready to go to glee. Are mike and me picking you up today or is matt ? I cant remember what we said .."
" Matt should be here any minute ," answered Santana," we'll pick you up "
She hung up the cell and met her moms curious expression." What ? You know that Brittany can be forgetful ..a lot "
" such a sweet girl for one so forgetful," commented Maria ," so what diet of the week is her Lord of the cats on this time ,Santana ?"
" Adkins ," answered Santana , twitching her lips into an affectionate smile ," Britt said that Lord Tubbington got really sick on the Slim Fast "
Maria laughed ," Oh that girl ! I love her like my own but such silliness "
" It is what makes her Brittany and my best friend " said Santana with affection .
' Oh tell that I would be more than happy to help out at the New Directions booth at the Rotary festival ," recalled Maria," I missed the meeting the other day "
" Your volunteering ? " Santana refrained from making a face," that's great and all, Mom. I think we've got plenty of parents like I know Hudson's mom , uh, Kurt's dad probably since he's hooking up with her. Oh and Miss. Pillsbury plus pretty sure that is going to make sure all of us work the stupid booth before we have to perform "
" I still want to help," stated Maria , matter of factly," I never did for your cheerios because that horrid woman only wanted a big fat check. I support you and your glee club one hundred percent so I am a part of the Booster club as well "
" great, Mom," Santana managed a smile ," come sell raffle tickets and baked goods "
Just then Matt pulled in the drive , honking his horn and saving her .
" glad we could have this talk and all," declared Santana ," I've got to go now "
He had barely pulled in the driveway and to a stop when his girlfriend climbed inside and smashed her lips against his in a greeting . He kissed her back , slowing it down.
" Not that I'm complaining or anything ,' said matt," but what was that for ?"
' I missed you ," answered Santana ," and I just shared my feelings and stuff bonding with my mom. I really think it helped and she totally approves of you since I know how you feel about that sort of crap, Matt " He silenced her with a easy kiss.
" I know its been rough with you and your Mom, San ," Matt held her close and she moved in ," so I am glad to hear things are starting to look up for you "
She blew out a breath and smiled at him." I love you, Rutherford "
Matt was quiet but she was content and loved. She was really getting used to it .
SH
Meanwhile it seemed as if everyone was having a late start arriving to the choir room this morning , Kurt and Mercedes had found a corner on the risers and talking with Tina .
Artie was practicing his guitar and Brad , the resident pianist, was quietly perusing sheet music. The others hadn't arrived yet including which didn't shock anyone .
Kurt was regaling the girls with details of his adventure at the coffee shop that morn.
" I have seen Blaine twice now ," sighed a hopeful Kurt ," again I was struck by his absolute dreaminess and he just breathes charisma out of very hot pores "
" You said that about Sam " Mercedes couldn't resist the jab.
" Finn too," added Tina," I think your having a pattern here , Kurt "
" Will you two shut up and let me tell this " said a good natured Kurt ,' and I didn't .admire Finn's pores. Though I do like nice skin but that isn't the point "
" look , Kurt ," said Mercedes, kindly," I'm glad your all excited about this Blaine guy but I don't think you should jump into a rebound crush like this …."
Tina frowned," Is there even such a thing ?"
" A rebound is a rebound " this was contributed from artie from the sidelines.
Kurt made a strangled noise .' I am not rebounding ," dismissed Kurt," and knowing my luck, I will never see this Blaine wonderful ever again. Let me have this moment "
" I still don't understand why you just didn't get his number " questioned Tina
" frankly before it could even occur to me ," went on Kurt," Sam rushed in, no thanks to Bo, and decided to settle our little misunderstanding right then and there . Not to mention ruining my chance for any further conversation with the boy of my dreams "
" Ouch, had to be painful for you, Hummel " added Puck, joining them on the risers.
" What straight dudes are you hitting on this week ?"
" No one and I certainly wouldn't tell you, Puck " said Kurt, flipping his bangs.
" Well Blondie that you have been hanging all over sure as hell isn't gay," informed Puck," caught lady Lips hitting on Quinn the other day..had to set him straight "
Mercedes, Tina, and Kurt all turned to look at the badass at this piece of news.
" Sam hit on Quinn ?" asked Mercedes, offended ," she didn't say a word "
" Wonderful ," sighed Kurt," and adding to my sheer humiliation "
Puck flashed a grin," I do what I can , Hummel "
" Where is Quinn ?" asked Mercedes, noting the classic blonde wasn't with Puck.
Puck threw himself into an empty chair before answering her. " Home at our place," answered Puck," Beth was like super fussy and crying over everything this morning. Quinn's like in a really psycho mood and she wanted to stay with Beth today "
" You probably shouldn't call the mother of your child psycho, Puck " offers Artie
" What," said Puck," I love Quinn and everything but its like when she was on that last tri-mester or whatever with Beth. Bitchy and weepy all at once "
" cut her some slack," said a good natured Mercedes," she's just being a good mom "
" I never said she wasn't a good mom," countered Puck," Quinn rocks at being a mom.I just said she's moodier than crap this morning which is why I didn't stay with her "
" not because she probably kicked you out …" suggested artie , earning him a glare.
" Hell no " smirked puck," I'm not stupid. She didn't want me there so I left "
" I thought it sounded normal," told Tina , thoughtfully," I mean since I have known Quinn , she's been moody like always "
" It's different this time ," replied a wary Puck," I don't know why its different but it is "
He couldn't put a finger on it but something was bothering his girlfriend .
He just might have to pry the truth out of her .
" I know your all about eating healthy , babe ," said Finn, his arm around Rachel's shoulders ," but orange juice and that apple platter thing isn't very much. "
" I am plenty full, Finn," insisted Rachel," and it was a nice breakfast "
She smiled against his forearm," besides you ate enough for the both of us "
" I think I heard you can get a wheat muffin at McDonalds now " adds Finn , concerned that her healthy, vegan diet was gonna make her too thin.
He loved her but on their very first date ( back when she still ate meat ) she ate pepperoni pizza . Now she might nibble a couple bites of his and eat her veggie one.
" I am not hungry, Finn , but thanks for your concern " she kissed his arm.
" cant you two leave this display of cuteness at the door ?" Kurt teased the couple.
" I don't think I'm cute ," Brittany bounced into the choir room with Mike at her heels," and I thought we all agreed that Finn and Rachel are too cute. Its gross "
Mike smiled indulgently at his girlfriend and pulled her on his lap," come here, Britt "
" Santana and I are the hot factor in New Directions " finished Brittany with a smile.
" She drank my monster ," mike was sheepish," sorry , guys, I couldn't stop her "
" Super hyper Brittany " said artie , rolling over to his girlfriend .
" thanks, artie ," Brittany met his gaze, " I really like that..I'd be like Wonder woman only not. Super me …Super Brittany . That has a really nice ring to it "
She turned and flung herself at Kurt." Oh my god, Kurt , I love that outfit "
The fashion forward young man was dressed in red skinny jeans and a sleek form fitting Marc Jacobs red and white striped top .
" Just a little something I found from Marc Jacobs summer collection "
" You look like a French whore " Santana couldn't resist the barb at him.
" sticks, Santana ," replied Kurt, easily," your words no longer hurt me "
" I can help with that…" trailed Santana before Matt grabbed her hand and pulled her into the chair beside him and Brittany," play nice with Kurt "
Santana folded her arms across her chest." I was being nice "
" insulting him wasn't being nice " reminded matt , " you said you'd try "
" I am ," snapped Santana ," don't be pushy, Matt. I didn't even point out that Finn might regret all those burgers he consumed at the party when football time rolls around "
Finn stared at her then down at his own stomach. He didn't have a gut . Did he ?
Rachel seemed to like his chest and he didn't think he was fat .
" I burn a lot of calories on the field ….." muttered Finn, under his breath .
Rachel placed a reassuring hand on his knee. " I love how you look . I think you're the hottest looking guy in the whole school Finn "
" thanks , Rach " Finn kissed her softly .
" Okay, guys ," Will barreled into the choir room, energetic ," sorry I am so late . Important business for our New Directions Booster club booth ….however we now will also be raffling two free oil changes courtesy of Kurt's dad "
Kurt crossed his legs, bored." Dad was glad to help "
" A free manicure compliments of Brittany's mother and our baked goods "
" I have already started baking my banana bread, ' says Rachel
" Thank you, Rachel," said Will," I know it will be a big hit "
" You really need to get over these lame bake sales, " brought up Santana
" That's enough, Santana ," replied Will, evenly," our last bake sale was a success thanks to Puck's cupcakes. I hope we can get you to make some more this time "
' Sure , I can make cupcakes ," answered Puck," its like really easy "
" I think our booth and our show will be memorable ," continued Will," uh, where's Quinn? I think we need to run through our numbers again for the festival and she really need to be here …." he looked at puck, expectantly .
" She's with Beth " stated puck," she was fussy. I'll show Q the choreography "
Will nodded, understanding . " Summer is on the end coming up quicker than I would like however we have the Rotary festival gig to look forward to before all of that. "
" Don't bring up school yet, ," brought up Finn," we still have time off "
" yeah," added Puck," don't suck the fun out of it for us. Quinn and I still haven't decided whose going to watch Beth for us while we're at school"
Will held up his hands in peace." sorry , guys ," replied the teacher ," okay no more school talk. Let's get down to business and run through our numbers . Everyone , take your places and Brad " the music began to lift ," Finn, Rachel, go "
Will smiled happily, basking in the glow that the kids would se the night on fire.
The Lima rotary festival was a small step but it was one in the right direction.
He could almost be more excited than the kids about this .
It was a good feeling and one that stayed with him all throughout glee .
New Directions was ready to show the folks of Lima the stuff they were made of.