A/N: I'm so sorry for how long this has taken me. I got caught up with my other story and I was doing my finals. I hope this chapter can make up for it.
Again sorry,
Enjoy :)
Next day (Tuesday)
Santana's POV
It was around 10 when everyone left the Pierce residence. They agreed on their plan for Wednesday, which I guess is now tomorrow. They were confident with how they were going to get rid of the evidence.
It was currently 8:55 am, Quinn agreed to meet up with Santana at 8:45 so you could go over some work from Math class.
Usually Brett would help her out, seeing as though he's some type of genius when it comes to numbers. She actually had not heard from him at all that morning.
Last text was a goodnight text. She had sent him two messages so far, one about math and the other about lunch. No response was given to either.
So as she waited out front for Quinn to show up, she was shocked to see said blonde cheerleader pulling up in Brett's van. Santana stared in confusion as Quinn parked, got out and made her way over to her.
"What are you doing in Brett's van-" Santana asked.
Quinn quickly cut her off as she sped walked to the Latina, grabbing her arm and pulling her into the school.
Quinn looked exhausted, like beyond tired. The pregnancy must be getting to her.
"You will not believe the shit that happened this morning!" She hissed out as they walked to Spanish.
"What?" Santana replied as she tried to keep up with Quinn's fast pace.
"I'll tell you in class, I can't be late." Quinn says, speeing up and turning into the class. They made it just in time as Mr. Schue was about to close the door.
They walked to the back and sat in their seats. Santana started to scan the room for Brett, but he was nowhere to be seen. What she did see was Quinn inhaling a fucking PbJ sandwich at nine in the morning.
"Woah, slow down Q, there's a thing called chewing. You're supposed to do it when eating." Santana sarcastically jokes.
Quinn just rolled her eyes as Mr. Schue started the lesson.
"I'm so stressed right now San, I just want to scream and cry at once. Maybe eat my weight in food too."
"Why? What's wrong?" Santana asked, she was suddenly serious and concerned for her best friend. "Is it the baby? You know stress is bad for the baby."
Quinn stops mid bite and looks at Santana with a blank face before a huge smile appears.
"What? Is this a part of the mood swings?" Santana asked, confused why Quinn looked so happy all the sudden.
"You did research? About the pregnancy?"
"Well yea, I meant what I said Q. Were in this together, plus I'm pretty sure I already told you the baby is gonna call me Papi." Santana says with a smirk.
Quinn lets out a laugh, the first time this morning she felt relaxed and was able to breathe.
"That's cute, but no. The baby is not calling you Papi." Quinn said with a serious tone.
"Ugh fine." Santana huffed out while crossing her arms over her chest. "Hey Q, I don't want to break your happy mood, but I'm slightly concerned. Why are you so stressed this morning? Did something happen with Kyle?"
"Oh, where do I start." Quinn says sarcastically. "I woke up to morning sickness, and was honestly debating coming in today. But I had to take Kyle in, so I got ready and was about to leave. I got a call from Julia, she was crying and I couldn't understand her. I tried to calm her down, but it was no use, I didn't understand. So I just rushed over to see what was wrong." Quinn started.
Santana's face turned into one of concern. She's very protective over those she really cares about. A few new people were the Pierce siblings. She would do anything to make sure those kids were happy. Santana nodded for Quinn to continue.
"When I got there, the kids were crazy, too much energy and not ready. Julia was trying to make their lunches and breakfast, she was full blow crying. I managed to convince the kids to get ready on their own and I asked her why she was crying. And you know what she gave me?" Quin asked.
Santana shook her head, too lost in the story to reply.
"A fucking note, and guess who the note was from?"
Santana just shrugs her shoulders, praying the note wasn't from their father.
"Fucking Brett! She told me they were both supposed to stay home today, that Brett would take Lily and Ty into school and come home. She woke up to the kids still sleeping. She went to wake Brett, but he was gone. Only the note was left." Quinn said angrily.
"What?" Santana hissed out, anger quickly filling her body. "What do you mean he just left a note? He left, where to?"
"Believe me, I was pissed off at first too." Quinn starts.
"But that's not Brett, he wouldn't leave them. They are his life, something has to be wrong." Her anger is quick to change into worry.
"Wait San, read the note." Quinn says handing it over as Mr. Schue yells at a student for interrupting him.
Santana grabs the note, it reads:
Julia, I'm okay.-B
Santana stared at the piece of paper, this was so unlike Brett. 'He wouldn't just leave them. Did his father take him?' She thought in panic.
"Julia told me today is the 6th anniversary of their moms passing. Apparently Brett has a difficult time with it, and their dad blames him for it. They were just supposed to stay home, she said he's never done this before. She thinks something happened, to trigger something? I'm not sure what though, but last time he left her a note he returned bruised and beaten up. I'm worried San, I'm afraid his father has him or something."
"Today's the anniversary? Why didn't he tell me" Santana asked quietly, she was a little upset. Didn't he trust her enough?
"Don't be upset San, Brett's a very private person. He doesn't like being pitied." Quinn says giving the Latina a comforting squeeze to her arm. "I'm going over after school to help her out with the kids. Julia's really sad, and it makes me want to just curl up with her so she can cry it out."
Santana looked down to her hands as Quinn spoke. 'I guess it makes sense, if my parents died I wouldn't want people coming up to me, reminding me of it.' She thought. "Okay, well I'm coming too."
"Okay sounds good. I'm picking the kids up after school, you can help."
"Sounds good." Santana replies as Mr. Schue assigns them a small quiz.
Nothing.
No sign of Brett, not a text, not a call. No one had seen him and it was 5 minutes until English.
Santana had been texting him non stop, the same most likely goes for Quinn.
They were worried, and apparently the only ones to know. Sam and Dante seemed to be in their world, not really noticing the problem, but Quinn and Santana were for sure on edge. They had yet the opportunity to tell Mike.
The bell for 4th period goes off, they all leave the gym and head for the last class of the day.
"Great, just what we need. This stupid class to add to the stress of not knowing if Brett's alive or not." Santana spat out as she walked into the room with Quinn.
"Just stay calm San, we'll find him tonight, okay?"
"Okay." Santana sighs out. They ended up sitting together. The majority of the class was there, only a few seats were empty. Mrs. Smith was impressed by how many of us actually showed up. Although Santana noticed the way she glanced over at Brett's desk.
"Okay class, thank you for showing up today, it is mandatory. Unfortunately, those who did not show will not get their 25% and will fail. We will go around the room and just explain the book each group chose. It's as easy as that." Their teacher says with a smile.
Everyone gets into their groups ready to share. Quinn was partnered with another cheerleader, making Santana have to sit at her desk alone.
"Okay, Ben and Mitchell, you can go first. Mrs. Smith said. The two boys got about halfway through their explanation of the book they chose when the classroom door opened. It ended up slamming into the wall, gaining the attention of the class.
All eyes shift to the door, Quinn and Santana watch with confusion and shock as Brett strolls into the room.
He wore sweats and a hoodie, he had a pair of sunglasses on and no backpack. He just didn't look like himself, which only concerned Quinn and Santana more.
"Mr. Pierce, lovely for you to join." Mrs. Smith says sarcastically.
The class watched as he didn't respond and walked to his desk, plopping down beside Santana.
"Okay boys, you may continue." Mrs. Smith says glaring at Brett.
The boys started presenting again. Santana waited a second before speaking to Brett.
"Where the hell have you been?" She hissed out, still looking at the boys presenting. Of course she was concerned for Brett, she was also scared. He did randomly disappear in the morning, leaving his siblings, it just wasn't him.
Sadly though, Santana's anger appears a lot when she's scared. Quinn explained that he was supposed to be at home with Julia right now, so why was he here?
"Out." Was all Brett replied with.
Santana stared at him with an annoyed look. 'Is he fucking serious?' She thought.
"Out where?"
"Just out." He snapped, he wasn't looking at her, just straight forward.
Santana finally turned to him, she was shocked at his tone. She was about to snap, no one spoke to her like that. But when she saw how distant he looked, so drained, she decided on a better approach.
She placed her hand to his arm, speaking softly. "Brett, where did you go? We were worried sick."
As soon as she touched him, he jerked his arm away. It was enough to make a sound from his chair.
The abrupt move startled the Latina, making her gasp. Quinn was quick to look over at the two.
"Don't- don't touch me." He said quietly.
The hand Santana had touched him with was brought to her chest, she held it with her other hand, afraid to make him upset again.
"I- I'm sorry. Brett what's going on?" Santana stutters out.
The blonde didn't reply, but Mrs. Smith did.
"Santana, something you would like to share with the class?" She asked in a snarky tone.
"No." Santana replied as Mrs. Smith moved her look over to Brett, she was now glaring at him.
"Okay, who would like to go next?" Mrs. Smith asked, looking around.
As the class waited for her to choose, Santana looked over to Quinn who was giving her confused looks, trying to ask her what was up with Brett. Santana shrugged as she looked back over to Brett.
"B, please. Talk to me."
"No!" He said loudly, it made Santana jump again while gaining the attention of the class.
"Okay Brett, why don't you and Santana go next since you seem to be talking a lot."
'Fucking bitch.' Santana thought as they both stood up.
"The book we chose was Harry Potter-" Santana started.
Brett cut her off as she was about to continue.
"It's a book we are all familiar with. About a group of kids who have magical powers and go around saving the day from some fucked up creep who's only motive in life is to kill an innocent kid!"
Santana turns to look at Brett in shock from him cursing in front of the teacher. She turned back and connected eyes with Quinn who had a similar look. In fact, the whole class seemed to be supporting the same shocked look. This was for sure not Brett.
"Mr. Pierce!" Mrs. Smith warns.
"Throughout his whole life, his only family members treat him like shit, like some prisoner. Once he finally finds his happy place, he's repeatedly reminded that life doesn't like him. This man, he's dead but still manages to come back just to haunt him, blaming him for things that don't make sense. The whole 18 years of this kid's life is a joke. When he wakes up, there's a 50 - 50 chance he will live or die. But no matter how much good he does, something always tries to fucking kill him." Brett continued.
"Mr. Pierce, this is your last warning!" Mrs. Smith stated sternly.
"Brett-" Santana tries to gain his attention but he cuts her off.
"The kid spent his whole life fighting, his only family were his friends. But there were always people who pretended to be there for him, they were only lying. No one would listen to him, believe what he was trying to say." Brett said while glaring at the teacher. "But in the end he makes it alive, just like all the other fictional stories." He finishes.
The class sat silently while looking at Brett in shock. Santana was switching from Brett, to Quinn, then to Mrs. Smith, waiting for someone to say anything.
"Okay Mr. Pierce, what did the story mean? What are the lessons trying to be taught?"
"That life isn't perfect. It's a lie when people say they are here to help you, and want to listen. There's always going to be a bad guy, no matter how much good you do. It also gives great examples how teachers are shi-"
"Okay thank you Mr. Pierce and Mrs. Lopez." Mrs. Smith cuts him off.
"So Mrs. Smith, do I get my 25% now?" He asks snarky, he has a weird smile across his face. It was making Santana uncomfortable.
Why was he acting like this? Where has he been all morning?
Mrs. Smith slowly nodded her head. "Yes Mrs. Pierce." She looked down to write something on her clipboard.
In that exact moment Brett stood up and made his way to the door. He got up so abruptly his chair fell over, he didn't flinch or even turn to pick it up. He just left.
Santana was shocked he didn't talk to her once, or even say goodbye. She doesn't even remember if he looked at her. She glanced at Mrs. Smith who looked furious, but Santana could tell the teacher was holding her anger in.
"Okay, who's next?" Mrs. Smith asked calmly.
Santana looked to Quinn who was staring at the door where Brett had just exited from. She looked back to Santana mouthing the words, 'what the fuck was that?'.
Santana just shrugged her shoulders while turning back. She didn't miss the smirk that was displayed on Puck's face as he stared her down. So she just rested her face into her arms, she was too confused about Brett to deal with Puck.
"Fuck" She whispered to herself.
Early that morning
Brett's POV
Beep Beep Beep, Beep Beep Beep
Brett rolled over slamming his hand down onto his alarm clock.
It was 7 am. He rolled onto his back letting out a sigh. He wasn't able to get any sleep the night before, the thought of his mom played on his mind the whole time.
He debated putting on 50 first dates, a movie that could always calm him down. Except he couldn't move, it was like he was frozen, in place, in time.
But it was 7 am, and he told Julia she could sleep in. That he would take the kids to school. So he pushed himself to roll to his side and get up.
As soon as he stood, he got lightheaded, a deep headache approaching. The crying he did last night didn't help.
He went to the bathroom getting ready. He was only able to brush his teeth, but once he was done and looked at his reflection in the mirror, his body pulled back.
From reality, or maybe even his soul, he didn't know exactly what the feeling was, but he knew the person he was looking at wasn't himself.
He slipped on a hoodie and some sweats, he was just dropping the kids off after all. Just as he got his shoes tied, his phone went off. He moved to check his recent message.
Meet me down by the pub
It was from an unknown number, ones he's never seen before. The message was so short and simple, but he knew exactly who it was from.
His fists clenched as he deleted the message, but something felt odd. Brett wasn't angry, he knew he should be but he just couldn't…. feel.
He placed his phone back down and moved to write a note. Once he was done he left the house, on his way to the pub.
It only took him 15 minutes to walk there, he did have long legs.
He walked up to the deserted building with a horse above the sign that read, Lima Pub. He rolled his eyes and pushed through the door. It was quiet, maybe a few random customers in the back.
Again Brett knew he shouldn't be here, but something was telling him to go. He wanted an answer- no he needed an answer. Where best to get that answer then the one man who's been telling it to him his whole life.
"There he is! Max, get me two beers!" Brett heard from the bar, the voice was all too familiar. What did throw him off was the excitement in the tone.
Brett looked to the bar to see John on a stool. He had this look Brett has never seen before. It wasn't happiness, but somewhere close to it. The lips on his face were slightly curved up.
"John, what do you want?" Brett flatly asked.
"Wow John, your boy here is one fine man. Tall, built, and handsome, I'm sure he will find a lovely lady." Max said from behind the bar. He had a faint accident, a little country. He was an older man, with curly hair.
"Yea, that's my boy!" John cheered from his seat as Max placed two beers in front of him.
Brett gives John an unsure look, eyes squinted as he reads his father. 'Why does he look so happy? And with me? Did he forget what today was?' Brett thought as he walked over, sitting down on the stool next to John.
"What do you want, John." Brett asked again, he didn't hesitate to grab the beer and take a swing from it.
Even though it was a little after 7 am, he didn't care. All Brett wanted to do was forget about today.
"I just wanted to talk with my boy." He said patting Brett's back. The hit was powerful enough to make him jerk forward as John let out a few chuckles. Something Brett was unfamiliar with.
"About what?" Brett asked while taking another swing. He didn't mind the alcohol, the bitter taste was making him feel, something he wasn't able to do this morning.
"Well- I wanted to know how you've been, and the others." John says taking a sip from his own beer. Brett quickly finished his, placing the bottle back onto the bar. He almost choked from hearing his father say those words. Especially, 'wanted to know how you've been' with the words, 'the others'. That was not something from his fathers vocabulary. "Also I just wanted an update with my money."
And there it goes. That 1% of hope Brett felt was quickly wiped away. He stared at the bar top, of course John would only want to see him for money.
"4 shots Max!" John called out.
Brett continued to look down, he didn't hear Max reply but he's assuming the man most likely nodded.
Once he heard the sound of 4 shot glasses being placed in front of him, he looked up.
"So, the money?" John asked again.
"That's what you wanted?" Brett asked looking over to him. Max had left to help another customer.
"Well why else?" John asked, taking one of the shots.
Brett just watched him, a hard glare in place.
John looked back over as he grabbed his second shot, he stopped before he could lift the class to his lips. "Did you just think I changed overnight? That I suddenly cared?" He sarcastically chuckled.
"No." Brett said as he grabbed his first shot, shooting it back. It burned on the way down his throat, something about it felt comforting. He was able to feel this, this was real. He was quick to put the class down and grab his second, shooting it back.
John just smirked at his first child.
"Is that why you came? Because you assumed I wanted to care." John laughed out.
Brett grabbed the shot out of his father's hand and shot it back. "No, God no. I actually wanted to ask you something." Brett placed the third shot glass down, waving Max over. "Another 8 Max."
Max nodded and started to fill 8 more. John stared at Brett, a little bit of shock in his face, but otherwise he just looked annoyed.
"After I was born, with what I remember, you seemed excited for Julia to be born. So what changed, why do you say you've hated me since the day I was born?" Brett asked.
Max returned with the 8 shots, placing them all down.
John quickly took one, shooting it back. He placed it down before clearing his throat. "I didn't care, I didn't even want to have kids. But Susan, she was an angel. When she got pregnant with you, I asked her to get an abortion. We were so young, no careers, nothing to our names. But she wouldn't, she fought for you. I loved her so much, enough that I gave up my life just so she can be happy." John said with a distant look, his face looked sad, his voice unusually soft. Then it changed, and anger was quick to replace. "She loved you, I think she loved you more then me. And after a year of having you she started to want more. This stupid image of a big family came out of nowhere. We agreed to just have you, but then she wanted more. But how could I deny her."
Brett watched as John spoke. He took another shot while listening, the burning seemed to lesson as the liquid went down his throat. He was losing his grasp of being able to feel.
"After Julia came, we somehow made it all work. It was easier, my little girl. She looked exactly like your mother, and in that moment something changed. Something in me was saying this was okay, that we can be happy. After she had another, it was a little bit more difficult, there was a small problem with Lily. Susan was bleeding a lot, they took her to surgery. She made it, but the doctor told her that there were very high risks if she was to have another child. Susan cried, all she wanted was a family, but we talked about it and agreed to not have any more kids. I was happy, I didn't want you guys to begin with. After a year and a half I found out your mom was pregnant again. I got so mad, she was supposed to get her tubes tied so this wouldn't happen. The doctor warned us that there was a very high chance of her not making it through. I got angry, because I loved her. She was mine and she was deciding some stupid child over me. I forced her to get an abortion, but she wouldn't go. She was already 5 months pregnant. I didn't want to lose her, but she decided another useless kid over me." John paused as he took two shots.
Brett could since his anger heightened, but hearing this stuff, it was new to him. He deeply loved his mother and saw her as a hero, a worrier. She chose Ty's life over her own, and he was such a bundle of joy. Brett just wished he got to meet their mom, get to talk to her like Brett did.
"It got rough in the end, when it came to her due date she was on time. Everything was going smoothly, I thought maybe she was right, and would be okay. After he came out-" John stopped as he looked down to his lap. Brett swore he saw tears. "After the doctor handed him to her, she kissed him. Couldn't take her eyes off of him, she looked at me with the brightest smile. At that moment, I felt happy. Happy for her, happy Ty was born. Happy I got to keep her. But then the bright blue in her eyes started to turn grey, her face paled and her smile slowly fell. The doctors started to yell, I didn't know what was going on. She passed out and I caught Ty before he could fall. I watched her die in that bed, she was taken away from me. I didn't want any of you stupid kids, none of you! You guys took her away from me, every time one of you was born, a piece of her was taken away from me." John took another two shots as Brett watched.
Brett couldn't help the smile that was placed across his lips. He didn't know his mom got to look at Ty, that she got to hold him. He always thought she died during the birth, a detail John repeated on the daily.
John turned to his first son, he became furious at seeing the smile across his face.
"Why the fuck are you smiling! This is all your fault!" John said, his fists balling up.
Brett looked up, he couldn't remove the smile. He felt happiness pass through him. His mom did get to meet Ty, she got to hold him, love him. Even if it was short timed, she got the chance.
A shove to his chest brought Brett out of his thoughts. His stool tipped back from the force, but Brett caught himself before he could fully tip over. "What's your problem!" He snapped.
"You are! You are my problem! You were born! If you never existed, my wife would still be here! With me! We would be happy, in love! But instead you were born, you encouraged her to have more children to the point of death! YOU KILLED MY WIFE!" He yelled while pointing at Brett. John took another shot before standing up, Brett noticed the way his body swayed. He wouldn't be surprised if his father was already drunk when he got here.
Brett stood up, he had a few inches over John. His fists clenched as he yelled back. "You know what? It's not my fault MY MOTHER died. How could it? She passed due to medical problems!" Brett fought back. This anger was filling his body, all the feelings rushing back. It was fuel to his rage, he sent his father a glare.
"She's not your Mother!" John yelled back.
"Yes she is! She will forever be my Mother! She's the Mother to Julia, Lily and Ty too! If anything she's not your wife, you don't deserve her! All she wanted was to love her children, to give us a great life. You ruined her wishes by being an abusive ass! But hey, I bet she rather be dead than be with you!" Brett shot out before getting shoved again.
He was now on his feet, he could tell the alcohol was starting to kick in. He hadn't eaten anything yet today. Brett stumbled back but continued to glare at his father.
"Shut up! It will forever be your fault that she's gone! I lost her because of you!" John screamed.
The few customers were watching the two, even Max stood in shock as the two yelled at one another.
"You know what! I used to believe it was my fault, that I actually did kill her. It used to haunt me, give me nightmares. I struggled to let people in close, thinking I would hurt them. I did so much good so I wouldn't turn out like you." Brett yelled out while pointing at John. "But guess what! I have a family now, friends who have taught me and showed me that I'm not a monster, that I didn't kill my mother. I saved Julia, Lily, and Ty. I SAVED them! Took care of them when you decided to give up. Don't you know how horrible that is of you? To abandon your 4 children because you were sad? Don't you think I was sad? I'm the one who lost my mom, my person, the one who cared about me. I loved her and cared for her more than you! Heaven gained an angel six years ago, and it's sad. But she deserved so much, especially better than you." Brett spat as he turned to leave.
It was a bad idea to come here, he knew it. But getting that off his chest, it felt amazing. He was still struggling with it all, but he was realizing that he didn't kill his mother. Realizing his father had been telling him lies all his life.
Before Brett could reach the door, John grabbed the back or his hoodie and spun him around. Brett stopped, he was a little dizzy from the alcohol. He regained his focus before John could swing at him.
Brett caught his father's fist, he hooked his foot to the back of John's knee, making the older man lose balance and fall to the ground.
John landed hard to the floor, Brett bent down and grabbed the collar of his dad's jacket, lifting him off the floor a bit. "If anyone in our family killed her, it was you!" He spat. "Now listen to me! I'll give you your stupid money, but it's the last of anything I'm giving you! After that, you leave and never show your face around the kids! And if I do ever see you, be afraid. Because I'm not afraid to go to jail for killing you! I can't wait for the day hell receives another worthless piece of shit like you!" Brett finished by shoving John back down. He brushed off his jacket and walked to the bar. He leaned over and grabbed the first bottle he could reach.
"Hey! You gotta pay for that!" Max shouted at Brett as he headed to the exit.
"Oh, good ole pop here will cover the tab." Brett said with a smirk. Then he turned and left the pub.
As he walked down the street, there was something in him that was telling him to be cautious. That his father will come running after him to give him a beating, for talking that way or even in front of other people. But he never came.
There was a part of Brett that wished John would show up and a part that he wouldn't.
But the high he was on, from talking back, finally standing up for himself and his family. It felt great. He could feel things, things he couldn't this morning.
Brett stopped on the sidewalk. He didn't know how long he had been walking, but it was for a while. His guess was that it's 10 am, he looked up at the sun, a trick he learnt on how to tell time.
He finally stopped to close his eyes and take a deep breath in. He could feel himself losing his balance once his eyes shut, courtesy of the alcohol.
But he was free from a curse he's had since he was born. He finally gets to wake up without fearing his father, either showing up or doing something to his siblings.
Of course there's a chance John will come back, Brett is ready though. He meant what he said, he's not afraid to kill him, as long as his siblings can live a safe life. One they deserved from the start.
Although the idea of him getting sent to jail scared him. That would be trading his life away, the possibility for a future of his own wife and kids. One where he gets a great job and makes friends.
He was already doomed. His whole life was a joke. It only made sense that he would just throw it away, anything for those kids.
He opened his eyes and kept walking, he didn't know exactly where he was, some old road.
He continued with his stroll, the bottle he managed to grab was Vodka. He had it in his pocket, deciding if he even wanted to drink himself back into numbness.
That was his debate, until he remembered that he had to go to school today. That Mrs. Smith couldn't hear him out yesterday, so he had to choose failing a class or mourning his mother. Pathetic I know, the school systems can be so trash.
Brett didn't hesitate though, if he had to face his friends and teachers today, he's gonna need some encouragement. He pulled the Vodka bottle out and swiftly took the cap off. He managed to get 4 gulps down before wincing.
Normally the burn of alcohol would be a bother to some, but for Brett, it reminded him he was alive. He closed the bottle and stuffed it into his sweater pocket.
He had to be at the school for 1:45, he still wasn't sure exactly what time it was. He forgot his phone at home, but he knew he had some time to kill. And he knew exactly where to go.
A thirty minute walk later he reached his destination. Brett walked across the grass and sat down on a bench. He looked around to the quiet and calm field. It looked like it went on forever.
He closed his eyes and let out a sigh, moving his hands to cover his face. Immediately after, he broke down in tears.
He couldn't hold it in anymore, it was too difficult. He missed his mom so much. Not only was he filled with sadness, but guilt.
It was starting to kick in how worried Julia may be. Brett can hear her exact words. 'Where the hell were you? You leave with just a note, I thought John took you again!' Brett imagined Julia saying with her hands on her hips, unimpressed face displayed.
He let out a little chuckle, he was spot on. He looked up through his blurry eyes, trying to wipe as many tears away as he can before they're replaced with new ones.
A soft pressure on his shoulder makes him jump and look to his right. Standing beside him is an elder woman, she must have been in her 70's. She had grey hair, hazel eyes and was for sure shorter then Brett. She gave him a warm smile before speaking.
"May I sit with you?" The woman asked.
Brett nodded before scooting over, making room for his new company.
"What a lovely day, isn't it?" The woman said with her gentle voice. Brett closed his eyes again nodding.
"Yes, it's very nice."
"Are you visiting someone?"
"Y-yea, well I was trying."
"Trying? You don't know anyone here?" The woman asked, pointing to the beyond rows of tombstones.
"No, not here. In LA I do, but I have no way to get there, I just assumed this would be the next best thing." He said looking around the cemetery. There were flowers on some tombs, old vines on others. Some were tall and big, others were small or flat in the ground.
"Oh I see. Do you mind if I ask whom?"
"My mother." Brett breathed out.
"Oh my poor boy, I'm so sorry." The woman said as she placed a comforting hand on top of Brett's right hand. She gave it a little squeeze which caused Brett to look up at her.
"It's okay." Brett replied with a weak smile. "She's in a better place now. I just hope wherever that is, she's happy."
"Of course she's happy, she's probably looking down at you, so proud of all you've become. And from what I can see, you are a fine young man."
"Thank you. All I want is to make her proud."
"And I'm sure you're doing just that, do you mind if I ask how long?"
Brett shook his head. "Today marks six years. She passed due to birth complications."
"Oh hunny." She gave Brett another squeeze to the hand. "I truly don't mean to be rude, but if she passed away six years ago, I'm assuming it's a sibling's birth?"
"Yea, my little brother, Ty. He was born today, it's his sixth birthday."
"That boy will be special." The woman said. Brett looked over, she had a smile on her face as she looked into the distance.
"Special? How?" Brett asked curiously.
"Well, your mother passed away due to tragic complications. It's as if she gave her soul to him. He will forever be watched by an angel."
"An angel?"
"Yes, it's tragic what happened, but I do believe things happen for a reason."
"I don't believe in those things. I don't think I deserved the childhood I grew up with."
"In your life, you have many paths, all leading to different doors. Behind each door is a different reality, ones of a timeline for if you would have chosen that path. We all make mistakes, that's what happens when we choose the wrong path, but that's how we learn. So next time, we know how to avoid the problems from our past. I think it's a valuable lesson from the universe. I also think that whatever path we choose, it was meant to be. Because clearly something in us encouraged us to choose that path. Therefore whatever happens, it was meant to be."
"My mother, she was told after my sister was born that if she got pregnant again, there would be a high chance she would not survive. Apparently she found out late that she was pregnant, and hid it from my father. He tried to force her into abortion but she denied it. Then Ty was born, he was healthy and strong."
"Your mother didn't have many paths to choose from. I doubt she chose to become pregnant. But when she did, it would have been a difficult decision. Risk her life for another child or abort him. I'm assuming she was a strong woman, choosing her child's life over her own, very noble of her."
"She was amazing. She loved each of us differently. My mom did so much for my siblings and I, I was too young to appreciate it and tell her how amazing she was. I loved her a lot, she was my best friend."
"That's what makes her an angel. And she knew you appreciated her, she was your mother. As a mother, you just know. Either if it's a choice, the wellbeing of your child, or their thoughts. A mother always knows."
Brett took in what the woman was saying, it was then something clicked in his brain. He turned to face the woman with a smile.
"I'm sorry, I didn't even ask who you came to visit."
"My husband, he passed away 10 years ago due to cancer. He was the love of my life, and I will forever hold onto the memories I made with him."
"I'm sorry, you must feel lonely now with him gone."
"Sometimes, but other times, it's like I can feel him, like he's right beside me. So I'll talk out loud, hoping if he is here, that he can hear me. People think I'm crazy, a lunatic, really I'm just trying to speak to my husband."
"I don't think you're crazy, in fact I do the same with my mom. Just randomly talk, little updates about the family. People who haven't lost loved ones don't understand."
"Yes, and I'm sure she's listening."
"I hope so."
"I'm sorry your mom is buried so far away, it must make this day even harder."
"A little bit. I think if I see her tombstone, it will hurt more."
"Maybe." The woman says patting Brett's leg. They both sit down and look in the distance. This cemetery was nice, it wasn't just an open field with rows beyond rows of tombstones. No there were trees, flowers, pathways, and benches. It looked beautiful for a cemetery, and it made Brett smile. His mom would have loved it here. "I'm assuming you should be in school right now?"
Brett's smile slowly faded. "Yea, I don't know if I can do it." He admitted looking down to her hand still on his.
"You're a strong man, you can do it."
"I just don't want to be pitied, and I have friends who love to pity. Plus I have a really rude teacher."
"Well, it won't help if you run from it. And your friends, they're probably worried, I'm sure they just care so deeply about you."
"They do." Brett says with a smile.
"Well young man, I think you should go to school then. I know it's hard, but it does get better. I promise.
Brett stood up as the woman stayed seated. "Thank you…" He said, waiting for her to give her name.
"You can call me Lina."
"Lina, it was nice speaking with you. I'm Brett by the way."
"It was lovely speaking with you Brett, you remind me so much of my husband so thank you." Lina replied with a warm smile.
"I'm honoured, well, I'll see you around Lina." Brett said as he started to leave.
"Goodbye Brett."
Brett made it to school, it was 1:20 so he still had time before class. He decided to stop at his locker to drop the bottle of Vodka off. Last thing he needed was to get caught with it.
He was walking down the hall, just wasting time. He was thinking about what Lina said. Do things happen for a reason? If so, did he deserve the way his father treated him?
He continued to walk down the hall, an odd conversation from the choir room stopped him from walking. He leaned against the wall beside the open door, listening to the voices.
"You heard him yesterday Will! He yelled and disrespected me, I was afraid for my life. I didn't know if he was going to hit me or-" A female voice said, whoever it was she was talking to Mr. Schue.
"Stop, I know what happend, I heard and saw it. Brett would never hit you or any teacher here. Yes I agree his behaviour was unacceptable, but not once has he acted out or been rude to any teacher here. I wish to agree with you but I can't, there must be something wrong. You know that kids act out when they are stressed or in difficult situations." Mr. Schue replied.
Brett's interest peaked once he heard his name, the female voices sounded familiar. But why were they talking about him?
"So your saying he should get away with his behaviour? That he shouldn't get detention or even expelled?" The woman asked.
"Sandra, that's not what I'm talking about at all. He didn't show this morning. Figgins will talk to him, but I say we cut him some slack. He was upset yesterday and I'm worried something may be going on."
'Oh.' Brett thought. It was Mrs. Smith and Mr. Schue talking about him and his behaviour from yesterday.
Knowing it was Mrs. Smith speaking about him, only made him angrier. How dare she be angry with him, all he tried to do was speak to her and she shut him out every time.
"So what if he shows up? What do I do?" Mrs. Smith asked.
"Just give him the mark, but make sure he speaks at least once. Just so he's not using his partner. Otherwise we drop it." Mr. Schue replied.
"You want me to just drop it? Will, he almost attacked me. If you hadn't grabbed him, he probably would have hit me-"
"Stop with that! He's not a bad kid, he wouldn't have hit you! Just- just give him the marks, I'll speak with him."
Brett heard it go quiet so he peeked into the room.
They both looked angry. Brett watched the way Mr. Schue tried to stick up for him, one thing an adult has yet done for him. He continued to watch the two until the bell rang.
"Just deal with this Will!" Mrs. Smith snapped before leaving the choir room.
As Brett watched Mrs. Smith leave the room from the other door, his blood started to boil. She made him so angry it was unexplainable. He was so easy going, he never let anything get to him. Except for this teacher.
"You want a fucking show? I'll give you a show." Brett whispers to himself as the students started to crowd the halls, all trying to get to their last class.
Brett decided he would make a trip to his locker to get some liquid courage before going into class. Which is exactly what he did.
Santana's POV
Finally! The bell rang signalling school was over. Santana was quick to grab Quinn's hand, both rushing out and to Brett's van.
"The fuck was that?" They heard being called from behind them. They made it halfway through the parking lot when they both turned to see Dante, Sam, and Mike trying to keep up.
"We don't know Sam." Quinn said as the two continued to speed walk. They had to pick the kids up anyways but they also needed to find Brett.
"Santana, did he say anything to you? I've never seen him act like that, only to Puck." Dante asked.
"No Dante, he ignored me the whole time." Santana replied as they reached the car.
"Well what's his problem?" Dante asked again.
"I- we don't know." Quinn said frustrated. She did kind of know, but she wasn't sure.
"I hope he's okay." Mike said, opening the door for Quinn, helping her into the passenger's seat.
"Yea, where did he go?" Sam asked.
"We don't know! Okay? We know the same info as you guys do. All I know is that we have to go pick the kids up." Santana snapped as she moved to get in the driver's side.
"Is she on her period or something?" Sam whispers to Dante. Mike was quick to slap the back of his head. "Hey!" He hissed.
"Shut up, and don't say that about her." Mike snapped.
"Well talk to you guys later." Quinn said before closing the door. Mike got in the back doing the same.
"Okay bye." Dante said as Santana quickly sped off. Fast enough that gravel was shot at the two boys. "Fucking wierd." Dante said as the two started to walk to the basketball court.
It was now 8pm. Brett had yet to come home, text, or even be seen since class. Quinn was really stressing out. She was hitting the bar high, which was dangerous for herself and the baby.
"Just sit Quinn, watch a movie with the kids while Mike and I clean dinner up." Santana said, pushing her friend to sit. The kids were quick to huddle around the couch, Julia leaning into Quinn.
"Okay, fine." Quinn said grumpy, but Santana knew she was grateful.
The two girls decided to order some food while Mike entertained the kids. Julia was still worried and stayed in her room until the food came.
"I just hope he's okay." Mike says as he washes a dish.
"It's Brett, he's fine. I just wish he would call or something." Santana replied as she grabbed the clean dish and dried it, putting it away.
"This poor kid, his life is so difficult. After the last two weeks, he has to go through this, it's stupid how life works." Mike says angrily.
"Hey, hey." Santana started, placing her hand on Mike's arm to calm him down. "I know it seems difficult for him, but he's a strong guy, and he has us and his siblings. He's just taking it hard, he knew her the longest. I can't even imagine what he went through, losing his mom then taking care of his three siblings at the age of 11. And with his father, it must have been horrible." Santana said with a pout.
"He's such a good guy, it makes me sick."
"I know. It hurts me to see him like this."
"I'm sorry San. I know he's in a difficult time, but you didn't deserve the way he treated you in class."
"It's okay, i know he doesn't mean it. That wasn't Brett, not mine."
Mike let out a little laugh at hearing Santana speak.
"What! Why are you laughing?" She asked with a smile.
"You're just, so different with him around. Your nicer, happier. He's good for you."
"Honestly, I know what you're saying. I feel happier with him near, like I don't immediately go into rage."
"That's good." Mike replies as he hands Santana the last dish. "Well it's hitting 9, I really need to take Katie home."
"Yea, we should put the others to bed."
After another 30 minutes, Kyle, Ty, and Lily were in bed. Quinn was going to take a shower before she also went to bed. Santana agreed to drive Mike and Katie home.
"Okay, bye. Remember, I'll be here to pick you guys up in the morning, okay?" Santana said as she moved to hug Julia.
Mike was buckling Katie up in the van.
"Yes, thank you." Julia replied into the Latina's neck.
"I promise we will find him, you go up to bed and get some rest."
"Yes, I will. We have a big day tomorrow."
"Right, Ty's birthday. We'll have to get ice cream after school." Santana finished pulling away from Julia. She noticed the second oldest Pierce siblings start to cry again. "No don't cry."
"I'm sorry, I just miss my mom, and I think she would have loved you so much. You, Quinn and Mike, you've all helped us so much. More than we're used too. I'm just really grateful, I love Brett but it's a relief to have more adults or at least older help."
"You don't have to thank us. We all love you guys, so much. I mean it when I say I'll be here, if you need anything."
Julia nodded as she wiped her tears away smiling. "Thank you San."
"No problem, now goodnight. I'll see you in the morning.
"Okay, night."
Santana turned once the door closed. Her heart broke from seeing Julia so upset. She was ready to give Brett a verbal beating though. It still made her angry, how could he just get up and leave. Of course she was scared and knew he was struggling, but the poor girl was terrified.
"They okay?" Mike asked from the passenger seat.
Santana sighed as she put the key into the ignition, turning the van on. "As good as it will get until we find Brett. He better be home tomorrow though. If not, it will break Ty's heart."
"He'll be back, don't worry. It's Brett, he would never leave his siblings. Nor would he leave us."
"I know, but we don't know. Anything could have happened." Santana replied nervously.
"I know." Mike said softly.
By the time Santana managed to drop Mike and Katie off and get home, it was now 10 pm. The driveway was still empty due to her parents being gone. She parked the car and got out.
She decided to try and call Brett once more.
Ring Ring RingRing Ring RingHi you've reached the voicemail of Brett, I can't answer the phone right now but I'll try to as soon as possible.
BEEP
"Hi B, it's me Santana. I'm just calling again because I'm worried." She started, it was soft and caring, but then her patience ran out. "But I'm also really fucking pissed. Your sister has been non stop crying all day, you don't text or call us. We were so worried then you showed up to class being all rude. I- I'm scared, and afraid something bad happened. So if you could please just call me back-" She's quick to cut herself off when she sees a figure sitting on her front steps.
"Brett?" She asks as she walks closer to her front door.
"The one and only." He says with a smile, his eyes are closed as he leans back. Santana can already see he's drunk, the way he's speaking and how he doesn't have enough strength to hold himself up. Also the large bottle of Vodka beside him which is empty.
"I have been worried sick!" She quickly said before rushing over to him, giving him a big hug. He was quick to hug her back and stuff his face into her neck.
"I know." Was all he replied.
"Where have you been? Why haven't you contacted us, why are you drunk? And what the hell was that shit in class today." She's quick to stand up and start her verbal attack. Believe it or not, her day he's been pretty stressful as well.
"I'm sorry, okay? I don't want a lecture." He slurred as he rested his head back onto the steps.
"Fuck!" She hisses. It's all too much for her, she needs to call Quinn, let her know Brett fine. She also has to deal with his drunk ass. But she's curious about where he's been, how he even got alcohol, and also what the shit in class was. "Fine! I won't give you one, but Quinn sure will and I'm not gonna help you with that." She says moving to grab his arm.
"Ughhhh." Brett grunts.
"At least help me, your fucking heavy." She said, trying to pull him up.
"I'm too tired." Brett said as his body became dead weight.
Santana gives up trying to think of a way to get Brett inside.
"Fine!" She says before leaving him on the steps and heading inside. She's quick to return 10 minutes later with Diego.
"What the fuck Santana! Did you kill him!" Diego hisses.
"What? No! He's just drunk. I need you to help me carry him in."
"Shouldn't he go home?"
"No, he's helped me before, so help me get him inside!"
The two managed to get Brett up and walk him inside.
"Okay where is he sleeping?" Diego asked.
"My room." Santana grunted as she pulled Brett and Diego to the stairs.
"Your room? I don't think so." Diego says stopping them.
"Huh? Diego that's where he's sleeping, let's go!" She snaps, tugging the two again.
"No, you don't need a boy in your bed, you're too young so no!"
"Excuse me but last I remember, all three of you assholes have girls in your bed. Dante and I are the same age, so that also doesn't make any sense. He's just a friend, I'm helping him out, so let's go."
"What if he does something?" Diego asked nervously.
"He won't!" Santana snapped.
"Okay, but isn't he Dante's friend too? Why don't we put him with Dante?"
"Diego, I'm this close to slapping you." Santana said while showing her fingers just millimeters apart. "I said my room, so my fucking room!"
"Fine, but you better lock your door so Carlos won't find out."
"He won't find out."
They managed to get Brett upstairs and into Santana's room. They kinda pushed him to land on the bed on his back.
"Okay I have it from here, thanks." Santana said as she moved to her dresser.
"Uh, okay. Scream if you need help." Diego said as he left.
"I won't need to." She called out as he closed the door. She loved her brothers, they were all protective of her. But sometimes they could be stupid and stubborn.
After she changed into her pajama shorts and shirt she moved to lock the door.
"Okay B, we need to take your pants and top off. I have no idea how or why, but you're covered in dirt." She said tugging on his top.
She managed to get his top off with ease, but his pants were harder. She even fell to the floor when she struggled to tug them off his feet.
She made sure to send Quinn a text since she was most likely asleep by now. She did manage to shove him onto one side so she can hop in the other. Brett was quick to fall into a deep sleep, or at least Santana thought.
"I saw my dad today." He whispered out.
Santana's eyes shot open as she stared at the side of Brett's face. It was dark, the room quiet. She waited for him to continue, she didn't know if he was sleep talking.
"You did?" She asked calmly.
"Yea, he of course just wanted money, but we ended up talking. That's where I got the alcohol from, we met in a pub." Brett whispered as he turned onto his side, facing Santana.
"How did it go?" She hesitantly asked as she scooted a little closer to him, she was also on her side facing him.
"We argued. He tried to punch me after I said some truthful words but I took him down. I also told him that he's not allowed to show up anymore. I scared him off San. He won't be returning, so we don't have to hide." He said, pulling her close into a hug.
Santana melted into his embrace, he sounded so happy but then again it could be the alcohol.
"Are you sure?"
"Yea, he won't show. I told him I will give him his money but then he's gone. That if I saw him again I would kill him. I saw the fear in his eyes as I said it, I had him pinned and everything."
Santana stiffened from his words. 'Does he really mean it?' She thought.
"Let's hope he doesn't show up again, I don't want you to get into trouble."
Brett didn't reply, but his hold on Santana tightened. They both went quiet, Santana for sure thought he had fallen asleep.
"It's my mom's 6th anniversary of her death." Brett whispered.
"Oh B." Santana said sadly as she moved her right hand up to his cheek. "I know B, and I'm so sorry. Why didn't you come to Quinn or I? To get this feeling off your chest?"
"I don't know. I don't like attention, and I didn't want any pity."
"I get it B, I do. But you left a note, that's it. We thought the worst, that John came back and took you for good this time."
"I know, I'm sorry."
"Also, what happened in Mrs. Smiths class today? Why did you shrug me off?" Santana asked, she sounded hurt, Brett could hear it in her voice.
"I didn't want to, honestly. But I was so angry with my Dad, with Mrs. Smith. I was lost and confused. I didn't want to say or do anything to you so I thought ignoring you would be the best. I really didn't mean to hurt you. Please don't be angry with me." Brett begged.
"No, I'm not angry, I just wish you told me. All I want to do is help you B, I was afraid you weren't coming home."
"I could never leave my siblings, or our friends. Especially you, I think I would be even more sad."
"Well where were you today then?"
"The cemetery."
"I thought you moved here from LA?"
"Yea, but I can't go see my moms tombstone, so I went to the next best thing. I met a woman there, she was nice and sweet. She helped me a bit with my mom."
Santana was quick to sit up. "Another woman?" She asked, jealousy in her tone.
Brett let out a few giggles. "Calm down Santana, unless you're going to compete with a 70 year old woman named Lina, you have nothing to worry about."
"Oh." Santana breathed out as she laid back down. "Good, I was about to get my shovel."
That joke made Brett laugh, and it was real. Probably the first all day. Which is what made Santana so amazing. She just understood him, knew exactly what to say or how to help. That's what he liked most about her.
"Well, you're gonna have a huge headache in the morning, but we need to go to school. Remember, we have our plan to complete."
"Right." Brett grunted out as he closed his eyes.
"Don't expect Quinn to go easy on you though, she's upset."
"Yes, thanks for reminding me."
"I'm just saying." Santana shrugged her shoulders turning to her side so she was facing away from Brett. "Night B."
The room went silent, okay he must be asleep now. She closed her eyes and was on her way to a good sleep, she always slept well with Brett.
An arm wrapping around her waist caught her attention. A hand was placed onto her stomach before she was being pulled backwards, right into Brett's front. She felt the bed dip a bit as he hovered over her.
"Goodnight San." He whispered as he bent down to kiss her cheek.
She leaned up and caught his lips. They shared a gentle goodnight kiss, both breaking apart with smiles.
"Night B."
Brett was quick to lay down, spooning the Latina from behind. He made sure to keep her close, too afraid she might leave him.
A/N: Again sorry for such a long wait. But I'm done school now, so there will be updates frequently. Hope you all enjoyed it :D