A/N - Really embraced Christmas in July this year LOL so enjoy some holiday vibes. Also s/o to the Discord for helping me brainstorm ideas for this chapter!
Song used: The Good Side by Troye Sivan
CHAPTER 25
The last day of practice before school lets out for Winter break has finally arrived and everyone's relieved. The past week has been exhausting and really, with how heavy it snowed overnight, school should've been cancelled. Santana's sure she wouldn't be the only one celebrating an extra day off but because the school system kind of sucks, yet here she is pretending she isn't freezing her ass off while the squad runs their drills. Afterall, it would be a bad look considering she was the one who made them shed their warm-up gear.
"Oh and Coach Sylvester would let you get away with that?" Santana had said with her arms crossed defiantly at the first sound of objection. "I don't think so. Don't forget, we were in your place once too. Lose them. If we had to suffer, so do you."
Everyone grumbled about it until Santana threatened to double their burpees. Suddenly it was nothing but silence and compliance, just how Santana liked it.
She remembers Sue trying to convince everyone that the cold is only a figment of your imagination so quit complaining but the only thing that keeps Santana somewhat distracted is the meeting she has organized with Brittany after practice. She's a mix of excited and anxious and a little nauseous, but she tries to remind herself that things are going to be fine.
"Cold?" Brittany smirks as she comes to stand next to Santana. She has her fists buried in the pocket of her Cheerios Alumni hoodie and her shoulders hunch a little as if she's trying to use them to shield her ears. The tip of her nose is a little pink too and if Santana wasn't so damn cold, she might've even cracked a smile at the sight at how adorable Britt looked.
"Honestly, it's like they have the A.C. on in here. I don't get it," Santana grumbles lowly, eyes zoning in on the squad. "We might as well hold practice outside, probably wouldn't know the difference."
"It's scientifically proven that colder temperatures help concentration," Quinn answers.
"So you did this," Santana says with a glare in Quinn's direction.
Quinn just smirks.
Brittany stifles a chuckle, "It's true though. Remember that one time Sue made us run drills in the snow? It was supposed to build our stamina or something?"
Santana scrunches her nose at the memory and grimaces, "That was excessive and borderline child abuse. I don't know how she got away with that."
"Pretty sure I still don't have feeling in my pinky toe from that day," Brittany frowns then perks up a little as she bumps her shoulders with Santana, "We did have a pretty awesome snowball fight afterwards though. Remember?"
Santana thinks back but doesn't recall any snowball fights, only really awesome shower sex because Brittany had said, "I can see steam coming off this water but I can't feel anything. Do you think I've lost all feeling?" Such a question led to Santana testing the theory of what Brittany could or couldn't actually feel. Several mind-blowing orgasms later, it was safe to say Brittany hadn't lost feeling in anything except maybe her legs but like…that was after the fact.
She doesn't realize there's a light blush covering her cheeks when she catches Brittany's innocent smile. Her eyes though, they're what give her away because they glisten with mischief. Santana can't stop the smirk from growing at the memory.
"Yeah, that was a lot of fun. You just kept coming – with the snowballs, I mean," Santana replies which instantly earns her a scoff from Quinn's direction.
"Your subtilty still needs some work," Quinn teases before she catches one girl step out of sync and calls out, "What was that, Denise? Get it together!"
Santana's eyes dart to the girl and she watches as Denise apologizes before quickly falling back into line. The girls around her exchange disappointed looks before stepping up their precision.
Quinn eyes Santana questioningly, "Losing your touch, Lopez? Maybe if you weren't so busy flirting…"
Santana's surprised she didn't catch the slip up herself, but her head has been in the clouds all day in anticipation for later. She catches Brittany eyeing her curiously too, but Santana brushes them both off, "Please. I was just making sure you were still paying attention. I can't be doing all the work."
Quinn laughs her off and turns back to watching the squad while Brittany's gaze remains on Santana. It's like an unspoken question is being asked so Santana gives her a wink in return, hoping to ease any of Brittany's worry.
When it does, Santana goes back to counting down the minutes until practice is over. Since their impromptu date, there's this feeling that has burrowed its way into Santana's chest and has gotten heavier the longer it stays.
Hopefully what she has planned will make it go away.
\\
There's something familiar about Brittany's journey that leaves Santana feeling unsettled. At first all Santana could feel was guilt for not being around, for not reaching out sooner, for her Mexican Third Eye failing to foresee that Brittany was suffering.
Although Brittany told her what happened, she hasn't dived any deeper than the surface and Santana finds herself question why that is. She knows how Britt works, she's seen her put on this mask before. Brittany use to do it all the time growing up but apparently that hasn't stopped.
While they were still dating, Santana remembers watching the light in Brittany's eyes dim the longer she was away. They knew doing long distance was going to be tough while Santana was studying at Louisville, but she didn't think it was going to be like that.
To say it was hard was an understatement, it was excruciating.
So much of their relationship was built on touch and to suddenly take that away? They didn't know how to cope. Skype and phone calls weren't cutting it and as much as Santana loved coming home on the weekends, she began to dread them. It was immense happiness on arrival then immense pain when she'd have to leave and that happened every visit.
The highs and lows had begun to take a toll on their hearts.
They both knew what they were doing wasn't working, they just didn't know how to fix it. They figured if they ignored it then maybe it would go away and everything would go back to normal. It would be like last Spring and they'd be happy again, but that was wishful thinking.
Really, she should've known: nothing bottled up stays that way for long.
It was during one of Santana's visits to Lima that she realized Brittany had her mask on again, something she hadn't used on Santana in so long. Santana tried so hard to pretend she didn't see how Brittany was hurting, to hang onto that last thread of hope for them, but it wouldn't be enough.
It wasn't until Brittany's mask slipped during that ridiculous club meeting at Breadstix that she told Santana how she really felt.
You don't get it, you left me behind and it hurt.
Those word haunted her and she'd never forget the look on Brittany's face as she said them. Yet again, she was the cause of Brittany's pain and she couldn't stand it. In an instant, Santana realized she needed to do something about this before something worse were to happen. Before they ended up hating each other, before a messy break up would tear them apart forever.
She was thinking about their future when she did it, at least that's what she told herself for weeks after it happened. It's the mature thing to do, she'd tell herself. She needed a reminder that this was a good idea, that her heart was in the right place, but sometimes good intentions just aren't enough.
She made the decision for them and she'd be lying if she said she hasn't regretted it ever since.
To see the Pierces do the exact same thing to Brittany years later just makes Santana feel even worse because she started this trend. They excluded Brittany from decisions that would impact her life under the guise of thinking they were doing what was best.
Then they just left her behind – just like Santana – and although Santana wasn't there, she knows exactly how Brittany would've reacted.
Brittany would've put on her brave face – her mask – and she'd pretend that she wasn't hurting inside. Brittany would've packed her things in silence, choke back the tears, and bottle up her feelings until she was alone. The Pierces wouldn't have noticed a thing – they never did – and they'd go about the move like nothing was wrong, like they hadn't just left Brittany behind.
She'd carry the weight of her pain all the way to MIT where she'd bury her head in her books and her studies with complete tunnel-vison. She'd keep it bottled up and store it away on the shelf next to any feelings that related to Santana because Brittany was stubborn like that sometimes.
As much as Santana couldn't stand it, she couldn't blame Brittany for it either. When everyone's already made their mind up about you, it's kind of hard to break character. Some would even say it's pointless, but when it came to shedding that mask and being vulnerable, they were each other's exceptions.
At least, they were supposed to be.
And maybe that's something that they have to get reacquainted with? She'd rather have a conversation about it rather than Brittany's mask slipping again. The thought of wanting a conversation surprises Santana, maybe she really has grown?
More than anything, Santana just wants to assure Brittany that she'll be whatever Brittany needs her to be. She wants to say all the right things, for Brittany to feel loved and cared for and to never feel abandoned again, but Santana struggles with finding the words.
The furthest she ever gets is picturing the inside of a familiar choir room and it confuses her at first.
It's the place she and Brittany fell in love and it's the place where they broke each other's hearts more times than she can count. The choir room has always been a special place for them, a place where Santana can say things with music when words just aren't enough.
And maybe that's exactly what she needs?
It's that thought that leads her to text Brittany the morning after their date to ask if she'd go with her somewhere after practice. Santana doesn't actually run it by Mr. Schue first but she doubts he'll mind. Cheerios practice always ran longer than Glee Club rehearsals anyway so she's sure the room will be vacant.
If not, she doesn't mind showing the newbies what a real OG looks like.
\\
"Great job, everyone!" Brittany cheers as the squad gathers in front of the coaches.
"Yeah, it was almost perfect," Santana adds with a shrug as she inspects her nails. She has totally mastered stifling how proud she actually is of everyone – something she picked up from Sue – In order to push the squad harder to win her approval.
She thinks it's been working well so far.
"Are we finishing early today?" Maddy asks almost in awe. She looks down at her watch then back up at the coaches before her, "We still have 15 more minutes."
"Dude," Alex scoffs, nudging at Maddy's side with her elbow. "Don't question it."
"Consider it an early present," Quinn clarifies with a smile, "Everyone has worked very hard this year and we appreciate all your effort so thank you. We're expecting to see that same energy once you all return from break."
"Agreed. That Regionals trophy isn't going to win itself," Santana smirks and the squad erupts in applause and cheers, the girls pumping each other up for the upcoming competition in February but also the prospect of an early finish to practice. Santana finds herself smiling at their excitement until Brittany catches her eye.
She wears a coy smile, like she knows some secret Santana doesn't and it makes her cock her head to the side. Brittany just chuckles and turns her attention back to the squad.
"Happy holidays to everyone and enjoy your break! We'll see you in January," Brittany says as the girls are dismissed to the locker room. The girls exchange holiday greetings with the coaches on their way out until it's just the three of them left in the gym.
"So what time is good to come over?" Quinn asks as they collect their things. Santana had invited Quinn over for their early Christmas dinner which Maribel had insisted upon since Brittany wouldn't be in town for the real thing.
Santana thinks about her impending meeting with Brittany, but she doubts that'll take long. At least, she hopes it doesn't. She hopes that it all works out perfectly and she'll get the outcome she's anticipating.
Santana shakes her head, realizing she's getting stuck in it, and responds, "I think six is good? It won't be a late one since Britt's flight is early tomorrow morning."
Quinn nods and she's already got her keys in hand, "Okay, I'll see you both later then!"
Santana watches Quinn leave then looks to Brittany who lifts the strap of her duffle to her shoulder. She looks back expectantly.
"So, where are we going?" Brittany asks and suddenly Santana's heart is racing a mile a minute.
It's all the more real now and she starts wondering if she really wants to do this but she's quick to shake off the intrusive thoughts.
"I'll show you," Santana tells her then leads the way to the choir room.
\\
When they arrive at the choir room door, Santana notices Brittany hesitate. She can feel her stiffen almost and it makes Santana turn to her. There's this slight crinkle in her brow, worry, as Brittany's eyes dart from the window to Santana.
"What's happening?" She asks.
Santana bites her lip at the sound of Brittany's nervousness, "Trust me, okay?"
Brittany swallows but nods anyway and allows Santana to lead her inside.
Santana reaches for Brittany's duffle and sets it down to the side with her own before directing Brittany to a chair in the second row. Santana settles into the spot next to her, turning her chair so that she's completely facing Brittany while a girl from the band enters the room with her guitar.
Brittany's eyes dart to the newcomer and Santana can see another question bubbling but Santana just reaches for Brittany's hands.
"You know how I've been trying to do things the right way this time?" Santana asks.
Brittany nods, "Yeah?"
"Well, I've had this…feeling and I want to address it because I think that's the right thing to do."
Brittany looks adorably confused as she tilts her head to the side, "What's the feeling?"
"That's just it, I can't really explain it," Santana starts with a shaky breath, "I've been thinking a lot about what you said last night about your time at MIT and your parents and started thinking about what I must've been doing while you were going through that then I realized something."
Just then the girl with the guitar started to strum a slow melody. The sound surprised Brittany, her eyes shifting from the music back to Santana as she began to sing.
I got the good side of things
Left you with both of the rings
My fingers danced and swayed in the breeze
The change in the wind took you down to your knees
As Santana sang the words, she could already feel the prickle of tears at the corners of her eyes. It was like her heart was breaking all over again with every word, yet simultaneously being put back together. She discovered a whole new world in New York while Brittany did the same at MIT but unlike Santana, Brittany grew apart from what made her happy.
Not just Santana, but also her love of dance and music. She had lost herself.
I got the good side of you
Sent it out into the blue
The people danced to the sound of your heart
The world sang along to it falling apart
During her time in New York, she always thought of Brittany but it was more so in the way that she hoped she was making her proud. Brittany was the one to send Santana on her way and she always thought Brittany was wiser than anyone ever gave her credit for, but Santana never considered what that did to Brittany's heart.
To always be the one to lift the others up and almost never get that in return.
But I sympathize, and I recognize
And baby, I apologize
That I got the good side
The good side of things
Santana watches as Brittany cocks her head to the side and it's almost identical to the last time they were here. She tries to focus on remembering the lyrics rather than Brittany's glassy blue eyes. She hopes that Brittany can understand what she's trying to say, how she's sorry for not noticing her struggles sooner.
I got the good side of life
Traveled the universe twice
So many thoughts I wanted to share
But I didn't call 'cause it wouldn't be fair
Santana feels her heart beat wildly in her chest as she sings the last line and she can feel the words engrave themselves on her soul. She can remember so many times in the past that she wanted to break the silence just to hear Brittany's voice. She could never bring herself to do it though and apparently she wasn't the only one.
The crease in Brittany's brow deepens but Santana just holds on tighter to her hands, a silent reminder that she isn't going anywhere.
Then I got the good side of new
Found arms to fall right into
I know how it looked, it wasn't the plan
And some day I hope that you'll understand
I sympathize, and I recognize
And baby, I apologize
That I got the good side
The good side of things
Santana remembers the people she met over the years, how hard she tried to replicate what she and Brittany had but it just never worked. She even remembers her ridiculous scheme with Elaine and how Brittany saw right through it. It's that thought makes her smile through the rest of the lyrics.
I'm sure we'll meet in the spring
And catch up on everything
I'll say I'm proud of all that you've done
You taught me the ropes, and you taught me to love
Santana remembers Sue's funeral and how it was beneath a tree full of budding Spring blossoms that she first saw Brittany. She remembers learning how to be around Brittany again after so many years apart. The rocky start and the miscommunications, but they'd get past it eventually and they'd become friends again because when it's Brittany it just comes naturally.
It doesn't keep the tears from rolling down her cheek though. She closes her eyes, trying to ground herself, as she continues to sing.
But I sympathize, and I recognize
And baby, I apologize
That I got the good side
The good side of things
The last notes fade and Santana stops to inhale a steadying breath while the girl playing her guitar leaves the room. Brittany's eyes have turned watery as she presses her lips together like she's trying to keep from letting a sob escape.
Santana is first to pull her hand from Brittany's and moves to wipe away the tears running down Brittany's cheeks with the pad of her thumb.
"Why are you crying?" Santana asks but her voice is barely above a whisper.
Brittany croaks out chuckle and shakes her head.
"Because you have a habit of singing songs to me that make me sad and I don't want to be sad," She rubs away the rest of her tears, "Good things never come from it, not in here anyway."
Santana feels winded by her honesty but she sits up straighter and moves closer to Brittany, "It's not like that this time."
"Are you sure?" Brittany asks looking unconvinced, "Because this all feels pretty familiar."
"I promise, it's not," Santana bites her lip again and Brittany looks somewhat relieved. But Santana's nerves are winning and she looks to her lap, "I just thought I could explain this feeling I've been having a little better if I did it through music. Maybe I'm a bit rusty."
"You sounded beautiful. You always do," Brittany moves to lift Santana's chin, "I think I understand but tell me. What are you thinking about, Santana?"
"I guess I've been thinking about what I was doing while we were apart," Santana shrugs with a sigh, "When you were at MIT, I was just starting at the Spotlight Diner. I was trying to make friends with my coworkers because breaking out in song is hard when you don't know anyone. Plus…I wanted to be likeable. No one there knew of my reputation and – just like you – I wanted to do something different. Be someone different."
"Yeah, I get that," Brittany nods, waiting for Santana to continue.
"I got so wrapped up in being jealous about you and Sam that I just wanted to prove to you that I could make something of myself. I was capable of finding my community just like you said. I tried to replace the feeling of missing you with other girls," Santana admits, "But that didn't really work out."
"I'm sorry," Brittany replies but Santana just shakes her head.
"You couldn't know that because I never called, but after everything you said last night, I really wish I did. I had made so many assumptions over the years, done my best to fill in the blanks about your life but I never imagined that you would be struggling. Maybe I wouldn't have been able to do much, but at least I could've been someone you could talk to? We could've helped each other. At least we wouldn't have been so alone? It made me realize that I kind of got the good side of all this and I hate it. I hate that you felt left behind and I hate that you were hurting."
"Honey, that's way too much guilt to hold on to," Brittany tells her softly and Santana feels like she's cracking open all over again, "I know I'm the last person to say anything about it or regret, but when it comes to us…you don't have to hang on to it anymore. I told you those things about my parents and my time at MIT because I wanted you to know me, the parts you were missing, even if they weren't my greatest moments. I didn't tell you those things to guilt trip you."
"No, I know that," Santana replies with a sniffle, "And I'm really happy that you felt comfortable enough to tell me. I guess I just felt guilty."
"Well quit it, I don't want you carrying that around anymore. There are just somethings we just have to let go of. We're in different places now and I'm very proud of everything you've accomplished."
"That goes for you as well," Santana tells her, "I don't want you to harbor any of those feelings either. Whatever you had to do to get to where you are now, I'm proud of you."
"Santana…" Brittany sighs her name but it sounds like so much more.
Santana just smiles back lovingly, "I mean it. You don't have to hide anything from me, Britt. I'm going to be here this time, for whatever you need."
Brittany nods and they settle into silence until she lets out a long sigh, "You really are my best friend."
"Yeah, mine too." Santana chuckles softly then asks, "You ever wonder what would've happened if we just cut the crap and called each other?"
Brittany smiles and moves to hold Santana's hand again, "Always. I think we would've been happier a lot sooner, but I think this is good too. We were bound to find our ways back to each other. It was always supposed to be you and me."
Santana returns the smile and begins to lean in for a kiss until Brittany stops her.
"So just to be sure," Brittany interrupts, "You weren't trying to end this through song right?"
Santana's eyes widen, "No, of course not."
"Okay just making sure," Brittany smirks, "Because the last time you-"
"I know," Santana groans playfully, "If there's anything I've learned in our time apart, it's that there is still no one like you. You're irreplaceable."
Brittany's grin grows mischievous, "Are you going to sing me another song?"
Santana lets out a laugh before tugging on Brittany's hoodie strings, "You're such a dork. C'mere."
And Brittany does willingly, closing the distance between them as their lips meet for the first time all day. It's soft and sweet but holds all the words that are still left to be said. Words that solidify Santana's feelings and her motives and their future, but for now she just revels in the weight that has been lifted from their shoulders.
\\
Later on, Santana's at home with Maribel and Quinn awaiting Brittany's arrival. After their time in the choir room, Santana and Brittany went their separate ways for the moment so they could get ready for tonight.
To Santana's surprise, Quinn had shown up early.
She was just barely out of the shower when she heard the telltale sound of Quinn's laughter floating up from downstairs. Regardless, she took her time getting ready. Although it wasn't actually Christmas yet, Santana could still look the part and dress up. She slid into a dark grey skirt and threw on her comfiest reindeer sweater – which would put Rachel Berry's whole collection to shame – before applying a little make up and a fresh spritz of perfume.
With one last look in the mirror, Santana fluffed her hair and headed downstairs.
"There she is!" Quinn cheers when Santana finally joined them in the kitchen.
"Oh mija, you look lovely!" Maribel greets as Santana rounded the island counter they were both sitting at. She noticed the open wine bottle and their glasses which barely had a swallow left in them and smirked.
"I see you've started without me," Santana teases as she takes an empty glasses. She doesn't even say anything before Quinn is filling it with pinot gris. She raises her now full glass to them both with a cheers before taking a sip.
Maribel and Quinn continue to chat about anything and everything, the wine making them a lot more talkative than normal. Santana is only halfway listening to their conversation, too busy puttering around the kitchen, peeking under the lids of pots left simmering on the stove.
It's not until she hears Brittany's name mentioned that her interest is piqued. When she turns to them, they're both looking to her expectantly.
"What?" Santana asks looking a little lost before taking a sip.
"I said, where's your girlfriend? I'm ready to decorate!" Quinn says and the label falls so easily from her but it doesn't stop Santana from nearly choking on her wine. Quinn notices it and quirks her brow, "Do you need to be cut off already?"
"No," Santana eye rolls, "It's just that…She's not my girlfriend."
Maribel deadpans, "¿qué?"
Quinn tilts her head to Maribel and nods, "What she said."
"Well yeah, we're not exactly dating," Santana explains and she immediately feels their judgement, "Okay we are but like…nothing's official."
"What are you waiting for?" Quinn and Maribel say in unison.
Hearing their voices at the same time makes Santana take another sip of her wine. She couldn't handle their meddling individually, let alone when they team up and let alone being sober.
"I said what I said," Santana clarifies in a huff. She hates this feeling of being under a scope. She knows that no matter how annoying and intrusive they're being, they do it out of love. She can still hate it though and after everything that happened in the choir room, she really just wants them to butt out.
Of course, they don't.
"Do you want to date other people?" Quinn asks.
"No." Santana answers tiredly.
"Does she?" Maribel asks.
"I highly doubt it." Santana answers again.
"So…" Quinn drawls out, "What's the issue?"
Santana just sighs, "There isn't an issue. We're just – I don't know. I don't want to mess this thing up, we've worked so hard to get to this point. I'm really trying to do things the right way and I know Britt doesn't need all of that, but I just – I want to make sure this time. I don't want to lose her again."
That answer seems to soften Maribel and Quinn and they exchange apologetic smiles.
"Stop that," Santana grumbles, "It's weird."
Quinn's smile turns into a smirk, "Who knew you were such a-"
"A what?" Santana growls.
"A hopeless romantic," Quinn finishes, "Emphasis on the hopeless."
Santana just lets out a deep sigh, "I'm not. Britt and I just – we have an understanding, okay? You might not get it, but it's not for you to get. We don't need to label our relationship to solidify how we feel."
Quinn smiles proudly and tips her glass to Santana before taking a sip while Maribel just stares with the same adoring smile.
"Mami, you have to stop looking at me like that," Santana says, trying to push away the nervous feeling in the pit of her stomach.
Maribel just chuckles, "Santana, I love you. You're my favorite daughter-"
"I'm your only daughter."
"Maybe so and I'm so proud of how far you've come but, mija, you're a worry sometimes." Maribel tells her in the most lovingly way possible. She reaches out and pinches Santana's cheek, "Brittany loves you, just don't make her wait too long. Okay?"
Those words resonate with Santana, but thankfully she's saved by the bell…literally.
"I'll get it. No more talking about this," Santana says and quickly goes to answer the door. Behind her she can hear the two giggling away like school girls and she shakes her head at the sound although it makes her smile a little.
When Santana opens the door, she's instantly relieved to see Brittany there.
"Oh thank God you're here," Santana greets her with a dramatic sigh.
"Hey San!" Brittany giggles. There's a fluffy Santa hat atop her head and she's dressed in her most festive holiday sweater, cheeks a little rosy from the cold. "What's happening?"
"Quinn and my mom think they're matchmakers," Santana grumbles and opens the door a little wider for Brittany to walk past.
"Ooh, who are we setting up?" Brittany asks enthusiastically. She holds a fruit tray in one hand as her eyes sweep Santana's torso and back up to meet her gaze, "You look really good by the way. I love your sweater."
"Thanks Britt and you look as beautiful as ever," Santana grins and offers to take the fruit tray as she leads the way to the kitchen. She can feel Brittany's eyes on her and her confidence grows because of it. She peeks over her shoulder – just to check – and catches Brittany's eyes lingering a lot lower than they should before instantly snapping up.
Brittany's cheeks flush although her smirk grows, "Did you say something?"
Santana just shakes her head as they round the corner.
"Brittany!" Maribel and Quinn cheer in unison which makes Brittany giggle again and look to Santana questioningly.
"They're half a bottle in already," Santana supplies and pulls out a glass for Brittany too.
"Hi! Merry early Christmas, Quinn," Brittany greets just as excitedly as she kisses the top of Quinn's head and moves to give Maribel a hug before kissing her cheek, "And Merry early Christmas, Maribel. Thanks for inviting me over."
"Of course, my girl!" Maribel says happily.
Santana watches with a soft smile as she pours Brittany a glass of wine. The way Maribel calls Brittany my girl does something to the steady beat of Santana's heart. She gets caught up in thinking about how well Brittany fits in with her family that she doesn't notice the girl coming closer.
"Can't forget about you," Brittany cheeses as she slips in next to Santana to press a quick kiss to her cheek too, "Merry early Christmas, Santana."
Santana melts on the spot and she can totally feel Maribel and Quinn's eyes on her but instead of looking at them, she just hands Brittany her glass.
"Merry early Christmas, Britt." She says softly.
Brittany just winks before turning back to Maribel and Quinn, "Let's get to decorating!"
\\
They find that decorating is so much better when there's a mix of wine, food and good company. Most of the house has been Christmas-fied, gaudy garland is wrapped around anything that it can, there are red velvet bows in the front windows, the table runner has been swapped out for the one decorated with Christmas ornaments, stockings are hung by the fire place, and there's this lingering scent of cinnamon and pine.
They're about halfway through decorating the tree when they decided to pause for dinner. It's a lot less formal than Thanksgiving as they eat out of bowls and sit around the living room while they catch the last half of Elf.
Santana knows it's Brittany's favorite and she smiles at how entranced Brittany is as she sits on the floor by the coffee table and watches like she's seeing it for the first time. There's a lot of things Santana loves about the holidays, the decorations and the overall Christmas spirit, but watching Brittany light up like this is probably her favorite.
There's something so pure about it, how something like Brittany's favorite Christmas movie has gone unchanged over the years, and she feels herself soften at the thought. She gets to thinking about what next year will be like and the year after that.
She thinks about old wishes she made in the past, wishes that involved decorating their own place and coming up with their own traditions. She gets to thinking about their future and babies that look a little like her but also a little like Brittany and it surprises her but she can't help but entertain the thought. She thinks about hanging up little stockings by theirs and setting out a plate of cookies and milk for Santa and how she and Britt will have to scarf them down before morning.
Santana doesn't realize she's being watched like a hawk until she feels a nudge and looks to the source. It's Quinn smirking and wagging her brows like an idiot.
Santana just sends her a glare before turning back to the tv as she finishes off her meal.
\\
Once the movie ends, Brittany stands up to stretch and her shoulder pops.
"Getting old there, Britt-Britt?" Santana teases.
"Hey, you're not too far behind," Brittany smirks as she pulls off her Santa hat and pushes it down on Santana's head, "Santana Claus."
"Britt, my hair!" Santana groans through a smile as she adjusts the hat, "And excuse me, but I'm gonna be forever young."
"Sure," Quinn jokes lowly. Santana shoots a scowl in her direction.
"You girls," Maribel chuckles as she sets off to continue decorating.
Brittany smirks before collecting empty bowls to take to the kitchen.
Santana's eyes follow after her, the sway of Brittany's hips as she walks away always hypnotizing.
"You should do it tonight," Quinn whispers once Brittany's out of the room.
Santana quirks a brow as she turns the Christmas music back on, "Do what?"
"You know," Quinn says expectantly, "It."
"Gross. The last thing I want you meddling in is my sex life," Santana quips lowly because that's the last topic she wants her mom to overhear.
Quinn just groans, "I'm not talking about that. You should make it official. You're already so coupley."
"Didn't you hear what I said earlier? We don't need to do that so mind your business, Q," Santana says tiredly and moves to stand, "I'm going to help Britt clean up."
"See what I mean? Coupley!" Quinn sing-songs but Santana just shakes her head at her friend's antics.
It's not like she hasn't been thinking about it, making things official has been on her mind for awhile and honestly she knows she's dragging her feet. She doesn't need everyone reminding her of that, but it just seems so high school to have to put a label on something.
But she does have to admit that there is something special about being someone's something and since their talk in the choir room, things have just felt different.
"Hey," Brittany grins as Santana comes up beside her at the sink.
"Hi," Santana says as she picks up a towel, "Thought I'd help you dry."
"Awesome," Brittany nods.
They stand like that, side by side, just going through the motions in a comfortable silence until the song coming from the living room speakers changes to something more upbeat. Brittany's the first to start humming and Santana soon follows, their voices melting together into a sultry mashup. Not to brag, but they sound pretty damn good. They always have and sometimes Santana really regrets not getting to sing with her more during their Glee Club days.
Seriously, they would've won every competition if it was her and Britt and lead and that's a fact.
"We sound good together," Brittany says like she can read Santana's mind.
It makes Santana smile with pride, "Yeah we do."
"You never told me who your mom and Quinn were trying to set up earlier," Brittany says casually.
Santana's eyes nearly bug out of her head so she's thankful Brittany's too occupied with scrubbing to notice. "Uh, they were just being nosy."
"Bout what?" Brittany asks.
Santana swallows, "Well, us."
"Ohhh," Brittany hums then starts to laugh, "Those two are a funny combo."
"Yeah, I guess so." Santana agrees.
Once they finish up with the dishes, Brittany turns to her as she dries her hands. There's a contemplative look in her eye as she asks, "You're still staying over tonight, right?"
Honestly, Santana forgot about that but she hopes it doesn't show on her face.
"Yeah. Totally," Santana nods, "I'll have to grab some things before we go but yeah.."
"Cool. I forgot to check with you earlier but I didn't think it would be the right time with the whole beautifully heartfelt serenading in progress." Brittany replies and hey both giggle at the way she says serenading.
"Well, I'm staying with you tonight." Santana assures her, "If you still want me to."
"Duh," Brittany grins dopily and starts to lean in for a kiss.
Santana has been deprived of this since the choir room and she's quick to roll on to her toes to close the distance when-
"Guys! It's our song! Hurry!" Quinn calls out so suddenly that it makes the girls jerk away.
There's a flush blossoming along Brittany's cheeks and Santana scowls at the interruption, but her annoyance doesn't last long as she hears the familiar melody coming from the living room.
"It is! Come on!" Brittany beams and drags Santana along behind her to find Quinn already pushing the coffee table out of the way for more space.
"No way you still remember all the steps!" Santana challenges as she and Brittany fall into place flanking Quinn.
Maribel sits off to the side, clapping her hands to the beat while the girls perform their signature routine to The Ronettes' Sleigh Ride. Surprisingly, they really do remember the steps! There's a bit of improv as Brittany dips down to pluck up a chain of bells and passes them to Santana as they continue to supply Quinn with their back up vocals.
The girls dance around the living room shaking their bells and swaying their hips in time with the music and it's the most fun Santana's had in so long, but what's most surprising though is the high note Maribel hits out of nowhere.
"Holy shit!" Santana squeaks and Quinn looks equally as stunned.
"Woah," Brittany's brows rise as she shoots Santana a look, "So that's where you get it from."
Maribel just lifts her shoulder like it was nothing and they all start laughing at how similar Santana really is to her mom before getting back to the song.
At one point, Quinn smoothly takes the bells from Santana's hand and leads her to Brittany. The two begin to waltz around the room, Brittany leading Santana effortlessly into a graceful twirl. Strong hands settle on Santana's hips, gliding around to the small of her back as Brittany dips her.
It's embarrassing how much Santana loves when Brittany takes control when they dance and Santana struggles to keep from biting her lip at the sight. Instead she focuses on the twinkle in Brittany's eye and Quinn and Maribel's laughter as they try to dance half as well together.
Once the chorus picks up again, Brittany spins Santana away and suddenly the partners have changed. Brittany's waltzing with Quinn and Santana's trying not to step on Maribel's toes. It's almost like musical chairs but with dancing and soon the partners change again. Now it's Brittany and Maribel swaying along to the beat while Santana and Quinn do the same.
It's a little bit of a power struggle dancing with Quinn because she feels Quinn trying to lead her around the room in a similar fashion as Brittany, but it feels weird letting someone else take control. Then again, that's basically a summary of her and Quinn's friendship: constant power struggle. She doesn't realize there was a purpose for her leading until the song fades out and Brittany's pointing to them.
"Mistletoe!" Brittany laughs out and she nearly falls over at the expression Santana wears as she looks up.
Sure enough, someone decided to hang mistletoe in that specific spot. The same spot Quinn was so desperately trying to avoid.
"Fuck off," Santana deadpans and goes to eye everyone, "Who put that there?"
Quinn is equally shocked as she looks to Maribel, "We were supposed to switch again!"
"I thought we had more time!" Maribel answers worriedly.
Santana's just confused, "What's going on?"
Brittany's eyes just dart between the three, an amused grin playing at her lips.
"This isn't right," Quinn shakes her head and looks up at the mistletoe like it has offended her, "You had one job!"
"It sure isn't right," Santana quips, "Because there's not a snowball's chance in hell that I'm kissing you."
"Cute, you've adapted your insults for the holidays," Quinn replies sarcastically.
"Hey, what's a friendly kiss on the cheek between friends?" Brittany calls out while trying to keep from laughing at the whole situation. Santana can tell she's just trying to stir the pot now and she quickly shoots her a glare.
"I see you over there," Santana says but Brittany just winks.
"I mean…" Quinn scrunches her nose as she ponders the thought, "When she puts it that way?"
Santana pushes Quinn away, "Nah, no way."
"Rude," Quinn recovers and adjusts her cardigan. She looks to Maribel and through her disappointment she says, "We've failed."
Maribel's smile grows as she watches Brittany round the couch, "I don't know...look."
"Alright," Brittany chuckles and steps closer to Santana, "I'll volunteer my services as a stand-in. It's bad luck for a mistletoe kiss to go unfulfilled."
"I've…never heard of that," Santana tilts her head to the side.
Brittany just shrugs, "It's true."
Quinn's brows rise as she and Maribel exchange surprised looks, has their plan actually worked? They're not out of the woods yet though.
"That's not how that works," Quinn argues although there's not much resistance as Brittany nears Santana.
"Sure it is. I'm a certified genius so you have to believe me," Brittany looks like she's on a mission and nothing's going to get in the way of her sweet lady kisses.
"But-"
"Shut it, Fabray," Santana seems to be on the same page, "If my girlfriend wants to volunteer she can!"
Santana almost doesn't catch the slip up, but the look on Brittany's face in addition to the gasps Quinn and Maribel let out have her blushing hard.
"Did you just…" Brittany whispers low enough so only Santana can hear. She's wearing Santana's favorite smile and it just about makes her swoon.
She thinks about how hard she was putting her foot down earlier with Quinn and Maribel, how she's totally gone against everything she had said, but this feeling she gets from saying my girlfriend is too good to pass up.
And it happened so easily, that has to mean something right? Maybe it's a sign she shouldn't have been fighting it so hard?
Santana matches her grin, "Is that okay?"
Brittany answers by bringing Santana in, her smile evident in the press of their lips. For a second, time stops and – just like the kiss they shared before a frozen fountain in Cincinnati – they feel like they're the only ones left in the world. It's the sweetest kiss yet because it holds so much more than just the luck of a strategically placed mistletoe. It's the start of a new phase of their lives and Santana can't wait to see what's in store.
"Good work!" Maribel smirks as she holds up her hand to Quinn for a high five.
Quinn claps her hand to Maribel's, "Just needed a little push."
"You know we can hear you," Santana calls out and sends a playful glare over Brittany's shoulder. Maribel and Quinn just giggle away, satisfied that their work here is done.