Supporting Characters (In order of appearance):
Iqbal Theba as Principal Figgins
Jayma Mays as Emma Pillsbury
Dot Marie Jones as Coach Beiste
Mark Salling as Noah 'Puck' Puckerman
James Earl III as Azimo Adams
Max Adler as David Karofsky
Charlotte Ross as Judy Fabray
Lauren Potter as Becky Jackson
Brad Ellis as Brad the Piano Player
Special Guest Stars (In order of appearance):
Jake Zyrus as Sunshine Corazon
Cheyenne Jackson as Dustin Goolsby
Not featured in this episode:
Darren Criss as Blaine Anderson
McKinley High was bustling with chatter as many of its students were arriving for their first day of the brand new year. "Testing 1, 2, 3, testing," Principal Figgins' voice blasted over the PA system as the chatter still continued. "Attention Students...quiet please children quiet," Figgins said as the chatter soon died down, most seeming annoyed that there was any sort of announcement.
As Figgins makes his announcement we cut to different classrooms seeing the teacher's setting up like Emma Pillsbury straightening out her pamphlets, Sue Sylvester in her office getting her journal out, and the new football coach, Shannon Beiste was writing on the board in the locker room.
"Welcome to another wonderful year at William McKinley High School. For those of you who don't know me, I am your Principal, Figgins. I hope you all enjoyed your summer break as much as I did but now it's back to business. I will not be tolerating any shenanigans this school year," Figgins warned over the PA system as many of the football players rolled their eyes, especially Noah "Puck" Puckerman who seemed to have a permanent seat in Figgins' office.
"We have many new students this year coming from all over the world so I want you all to treat them with the traditional McKinley High spirit and be welcoming to all. Any sort of hazing will result in a suspension no questions asked," Figgins said as Azimio Adams and David Karofsky pretended to barf. "Students, I hope you all have a great first day and let's make the great president William McKinley proud," Figgins said as he went off the PA system as the students seemed to quickly go back to their talking.
Sue, however, was entrenched in writing in her journal in her office. "Dear Journal, did I ever tell you how much I enjoy the first day of school? Is it because it's the start of a new era for one Sue Sylvester, maybe, but it's also the fear in the children's eyes that they no longer are on summer break and are now in their own personal hell which I find delicious. You can smell the blood in the water with all of the new students that have joined us at this God-forsaken High School under the awful leadership of Figgins. My quest for power is ever growing and it all starts with becoming the most winning cheerleading coach in history. I'll show those D-list celebrities what a real champion is made of," Sue wrote in her journal thinking back to the year prior when Olivia Newton John, Josh Groban, and Rod Remington made comments that she was just like the New Directions, leading Sue to plead with Figgins for them to get another year to place at Regionals.
"When this is done today, Josh and I are flying back to L.A. first class. You'll be staying here. Just like those kids," Olivia Newton John's words rang in Sue's head as she looked more determined than ever before to prove she was the ultimate champion. "Yes journal, though it may seem like I've gone soft, giving those tone-deaf kids a second chance, the truth is, they need a chance to prove themselves as do I. Sue Sylvester is and will always be a proven champion." Sue finished writing in her journal as she prepared to take on the first day of high school. "Ready or not, the future starts today," Sue said to herself determinedly as she headed out into the hall.
"Move it!" Sue yelled at the students who were standing around "Do not make me break out my mega phone because you know I will. Summer sleepytime is over, welcome back to reality." The students seemed to move along, clearly afraid of Sue who smirked, oh yes Sue Sylvester is truly back once again.
Meanwhile, Will Schuester was organizing the sheet music in the choir room, glad to be back teaching the Glee Club once again. The New Directions started to walk in their usual groups, Rachel Berry arrived first, dragging her boyfriend Finn Hudson in with her as they greeted Mr. Schue, taking their usual center seats; Kurt Hummel and Mercedes Jones walked in arms linked, followed by Tina Cohen-Chang and Mike Chang who looked incredibly close, something everyone seemed surprised about. Last any of them had heard Tina was dating Artie Abrams but that seemed to be a thing of the past. Artie wheeled behind them, looking longingly towards Tina. The Unholy Trinity arrived together in their usual triangle formation with Quinn Fabray leading them like always while Brittany S. Pierce and Santana Lopez had their pinkies linked in their usual manner. Last to enter was Puck, who always seemed to be late and trying to sit by Quinn, something she clearly didn't want as she moved by Kurt and Mercedes as Mercedes shot Puck a glare. He raised his arms as if to say 'what did I do?'.
"New Directions welcome back!" Mr. Schue smiled as the New Directions all cheered, seeming ecstatic about the start of a new year. "I hope you all had a great summer but this year isn't going to be easy," Mr. Schue told the students who seemed to be in agreement "We not only have to place at Regionals, but we need to find a new 12th member."
"How come?" Brittany asked innocently, seeming confused, didn't they already have 12 members.
"Matt moved away over the summer," Mike explained.
"And?" Brittany said, cocking her head to the side.
"Britt...he was our 12th member," Santana explained as Brittany seemed to get it.
"Ohhhh yeah. I forgot about that," Brittany said, seeming to nod.
"Which means we need to figure out a way to recruit new members. Does anyone have any ideas?" Mr. Schue asked as Rachel's hand quickly shot up "Yes Rachel?"
"Oh here we go," Santana groaned, rolling her eyes as Rachel shot her a look.
"I personally think that we should perform a number to impress the school," Rachel said simply.
"Yeah a lot of good that will do, the last recruit performance we had at the school didn't end well," Mercedes said shaking her head as the others murmured in agreement, remembering how their performance of 'Push It' had gotten their songs they could sing limited to songs that had Jesus or Balloons in the title, thankfully that had been lifted.
"We're not going to sell sex in the performance this time," Rachel argued.
"Rachel's right. I mean we should perform something to peak people's interest," Finn agreed as Rachel beamed up at her boyfriend, grateful for his support.
"I think Rachel is right. We do need to perform a song but this time we are sticking to the performance I give okay?" Mr. Schue said as the New Directions murmured in agreement as Will handed out the sheet music to 'Empire State of Mind' by Alicia Keys and Jay Z.
"Now, according to Jacob Ben Israel's blog, the school believes we only sing show tunes or 80's rock, so, I think we need to show the school that we can sing the song of the summer, New Directions style beside that Nationals are in New York this year and we are going to show this school why we're going to make it this year," Will said as the New Directions chattered excitedly about the number.
"It's about damn time we did something modern. This is going to be great Mr. Schue," Mercedes grinned.
"I'm glad you think so, Mercedes. I would like you on lead vocals," Mr. Schue said as Mercedes beamed, excited to showcase her talents, something that seemed to make Rachel annoyed.
"Alright guys, let's start the rehearsals, from the top!" Mr. Schue exclaimed as the New Directions prepared to rehearse the song of the summer.
Cut to the hallway where Rachel held Finn's hand happily as they walked down together. "I know what you're thinking. Rachel and Finn together? Finally, I know. I thought the same thing," Rachel said in a voice over as students seemed to be surprised by this pairing, especially since Finn was the quarterback. It was a known fact that the quarterback usually dated the head cheerleader and Rachel wasn't that in the least. "We've been dating all summer," Rachel said in a voice over proudly as we flashback to the beginning of Finn and Rachel's summer romance with scenes of them going to the movies together, making out in Finn's room, and going to see Wicked at the Ohio Theater in Columbus both seeming to grow closer on each date.
"Sure, we didn't win Regionals or even place but Finn and I got so much more. We got our relationship which started with his confession of love to me. And now with him being the quarterback and me the leader of the New Directions, we are going to be undisputed king and queen of the school. Just like it was always meant to be," Rachel said in a voice over seeming proud, that is until Karofsky and Azimio approached her and Finn with a slushie each, slushiying both of them as the other students laughed. Rachel scoffed, upset but this seemed to do something to Finn, who hated feeling like a loser all over again.
Santana and Brittany watched from their lockers, seeming to laugh meanwhile Quinn, who's beside them seems lost in her own world as she looks through her locker. "Berry and Finn getting slushied? Classic," Santana said.
"Totally. I don't get why they think they run the school now, especially since you're head cheerleader San," Brittany said, shaking her head.
"Co-Head cheerleader thanks to Coach Sylvester making Becky co-captain," Santana said, annoyed as she rolled her eyes.
"Well everyone knows you're really the head cheerleader so that's what matters," Brittany shrugged as Santana looked at Quinn who seemed to be staring at herself in the mirror in her locker.
"So Fabray, when are you going to rejoin us on the squad?" Santana asked, arms folded.
"Who says I'm welcome back on the squad," Quinn said simply, seeming to break out of her trance.
"Ummm all of us?" Santana said simply.
"Not Coach Sylvester. She kicked me off after I got pregnant," Quinn said with a shrug.
"That is so last year Q. Ever since Kurt didn't come back to the Cheerios, we've been needing another member, someone who can pull off all the stunts," Santana said as Quinn shook her head.
"Look, even if I wanted to sign up for tryouts, it's not like Coach Sylvester would let me even get 50 feet by that sign up sheet," Quinn said.
"Leave it to Auntie Snixx. You'll be on that list and back on the squad in no time," Santana told Quinn seriously but Quinn didn't seem so sure.
"Well thanks Santana. I've got to get to class," Quinn said, grabbing her books as she walked off as Santana watched her leave worriedly.
"Is it just me or has she been in a funk since having the baby," Santana asked Brittany.
"I've noticed it too," Brittany said seriously "She ignored most of my calls this summer."
"Mine too and when I saw her back at school she acted like nothing was wrong," Santana said.
"Yeah same here...I think the stork was evil," Brittany said seriously.
"Probably," Santana said, trying not to correct Brittany.
"Walk me to class?" Brittany asked holding her pinky out to Santana.
"You know it," Santana smiled taking Brittany's pinky as they walked off together.
Quinn watched her two friends leave before heading back to her locker to grab her things, she wasn't going to class, not even close. She was on a free period and was going to therapy like she had been doing all summer. Her mom, Judy waved as Quinn met her in the office to sign her out.
"To say I had a rough summer would be an understatement," Quinn said in a voiceover as we flashback to her laying in her bed listless, as her mom tries to get her attention, trying to get Quinn to get up. "After giving birth, I fell into a deep depression, postpartum depression was my official diagnosis," Quinn said in a voice over as we cut to Judy having dragged a rough looking Quinn to the doctors as the doctor seems to be explaining what is going on with Quinn.
"Giving...her up was the hardest thing I had ever done and I could barely get myself up in the morning which worried my mom, so she decided to invest in some therapy, something we had never been allowed to do when my father was around to work on rebuilding our relationship as well as getting me the help I need. I don't know how much it or the meds they've put on are working. Every day just feels like more of the same, I've still been shutting everyone out, even the people who care about me the most," Quinn said in a voice over as we see her sighing as calls come through from most of the new directions but more missed calls are from Brittany and Santana.
"Maybe this appointment will be different, I mean I just started going back to school and maybe it's the routine that I need to heal once again. Maybe Santana had a point, maybe I should rejoin the Cheerios to regain some semblance of normalcy in my life. This year is going to be about me, not about chasing after some boy or going on a power trip but instead investing in healing. Maybe that's the key to finally feeling happy again," Quinn said in a voice over as we end up at her appointment as the therapist is listening intently.
"So what do you think of that Ms. Amoré?" Quinn asked nervously.
"Well, I think if you feel the medications aren't doing anything for you. We should definitely change them," Ms. Amoré said seriously, "But I also think that taking part in the activities you once enjoyed might help you get back to feeling like yourself."
Quinn nodded, glad her therapist seemed to be in agreement.
"You've come a long way Quinn over this summer and I'm proud of you. And that seems to be our time for today," Ms. Amoré said as Quinn nodded, getting up "Should we set you up for an appointment at the same time next week?" she asked.
"Definitely," Quinn nodded.
"Great. I'll see you Monday," Ms. Amoré said as Quinn headed out of her therapy session, feeling more at ease, maybe things would finally work out after all.
Meanwhile Will and Sue both enter Figgins' office, both seeming confused. "You wanted to see us Figgins?" Will asked.
"Yes, take a seat," Figgins said as they both noticed the new football coach, Coach Beiste, already waiting for them which Sue narrowed her eyes at
"And what is she doing here?"
"The name is Shannon Beiste, I'm the new football coach here at McKinley," Beiste said introducing herself.
"What happened to Ken Tanaka?" Will asked confused.
"He transferred schools," Figgins said with a shrug.
"I was hired to turn this school's football team around. You have a pretty dismal record according to the files I've read," Beiste said simply.
"I'm sorry but what does this have to do with us?" Will asked confused.
"Well in order for Coach Beiste to adequately I need to cut money from both of your budgets," Figgins said seriously.
"Cut my budget! You cannot cut my budget. I'm the reason people even know about this dismal little high school. I'm a celebrity and my Cheerios have been National champions for the past 6 years and you want to take away money from a proven program," Sue huffed.
"Oh Sue, you can deal without 2 confetti cannons, that is the only amount I'm asking for," Figgins said, shaking his head.
"Plus it's a little ridiculous when the Cheer Squad has a higher budget than the people they're cheering for," Beiste added as Sue glared at her.
"Until your little football team proves itself I don't think you should get a penny from me," Sue said, getting in Beiste's face.
"You don't scare me lady. Those intimidation tactics may have worked on other staff members but I don't roll that way," Beiste said in Sue's face something that seemed to surprise Sue.
"Coach Beiste, I completely get where you're coming from about the Cheerios but taking money from the Glee Club? That's like taking our life support," Will frowned upset.
"The Glee Club? You guys placed last at Regionals and you expect more money?" Beiste said in dismay. "
But we need to be able to keep up with the other clubs, there's so much that goes into it," Will frowned.
"Hold a fundraiser," Beiste said as Will looked shocked, how could someone be so cold.
"Settle down, both of you. William, if the Glee Club starts winning, your budget will be restored but until then, the football team needs it. Coach Beiste is just off her 5th consecutive state football championship in Missouri. We are lucky to have her here," Figgins said seriously.
"And what about me and the Cheerios?" Sue said, baffled.
"Oh Sue, you've found creative ways to increase your budget due to parent donations. What makes this year any different," Figgins said, shaking his head as Sue got up annoyed as she turned to Beiste.
"You have just awoken a sleeping giant, prepare to meet your worst nightmare, Beiste," Sue said as she stormed out of Figgins' office knocking a slushie out of a student's hand. "Those drinks suck!" Sue exclaimed upset as she headed to her office.
Will put his head in his hands, how was he supposed to come up with the money for the Glee Club until they won sectionals, if they won sectionals as he left Figgins' office Beiste caught up with him. "Mr. Schuester," Beiste began.
"Please you can call me Will," Will said simply.
"Will, I'm really sorry about how I had to act back there. I just heard a lot of things around this school, especially about Sue and how she bulldozes over everyone. I had to play the show no mercy card on you back there just so she knew I wasn't playing around. I've heard a lot of my football players are in your Glee Club and if there's anything I can do to help with the schedule or otherwise, please let me know," Beiste said seriously as Will looked surprised. Maybe she wasn't what she seemed after all.
"Well thank you Coach Beiste," Will smiled softly.
"Of course, and you can call me Shannon by the way," she smiled back at him.
"Okay Shannon. Thanks again," Will said as he walked off, maybe the tension between Glee Club and football could end once and for all. It was one less obstacle Will would be happy not to have.
That afternoon the New Directions had gotten permission from Principal Figgins to perform their number in the quad which they all got set up to perform, pressing play on the boom box as they began to sing 'Empire State of Mind'.
As the New Directions perform they catch the attention of two students who are sitting in the quad, a foreign exchange student from the Philippines, Sunshine Corazon who is singing along to the song, something Rachel takes notice of as well as the new football player, Sam Evans who is tapping his foot, seeming incredibly interested in the performance which Finn notices. The New Directions soon finish their performance to no applause, something they all seem disheartened about but this was only the first day of school, maybe their luck could turn around.
Cut to the locker room that afternoon where Coach Beiste stands at the board as the football players enter. "Please, take your seats on the benches around us," Beiste said as the guys seemed to hesitantly take their seats, thinking they should be practicing instead of having a meeting.
"First I want to introduce myself, I'm Coach Beiste and I just moved here from Missouri where I led their football team to five consecutive state championships, something I hope to replicate with you all. Now, being that I'm a new coach and seeing the disappointing records you had last season, I'm going to have everyone start fresh. This is officially football tryouts and only the best of the best will make the team, if I feel like you're not cut out you are going to be off the team. Do I make myself clear?" Beiste said as some of the football players exchanged concerned looks, could they be off the team if they failed her tryouts.
"Yes Ma'am," Sam spoke up.
"Thank you...what's your name?" Beiste asked.
"Sam, Sam Evans," Sam said sheepishly.
"Well the rest of you can learn some manners from Evans over here. Get into your gear and meet me on the field in 5 we're going to start with some windsprints," Beiste said as some of the jocks, namely Puck, Karofsky, and Azimio rolled their eyes at her comment about manners. She blew her whistle as the football players prepared to get ready.
Cut to the football field where Coach Beiste is running all the different drills with the team and most of them aren't doing well in the least. Finn in particular seems to be struggling with the drills. He was completely out of practice having spent most of his summer with Rachel but he did his best to try to make up for it. Coach Beiste made note of a number of players who were seeming to impress her namely Sam, Puck, Azimio, Karofsky, Mike, Anthony Rashad, Christopher Strando, and Shane Tinsley. She began to write down what positions she thought they would be best in as she observed their tryouts.
She soon blew her whistle once again "Alright boys, I will have the list posted tomorrow afternoon and you'll see if you made the cut," Beiste told the guys seriously as many of them high-fived and caught their breath. "You're dismissed," she said as the football players ran off the field to head to the showers. Finn, however, felt incredibly insecure about how he did on the team and made it his mission to prove himself to hopefully remain quarterback.
After football tryouts , Finn headed into the locker room later than the other football players finding it empty, or so he thought. He faintly heard the sounds of 'Every Rose Has Its Thorn' by Poison. As he approached the sounds he noticed Sam Evans, the new transfer kid singing it in the shower.
Finn was incredibly impressed by his voice. "When I got out of practice I heard some singing...it was the new kid, Sam I think his name was. He was really good. I mean I noticed him jamming along to our performance in the courtyard earlier. Maybe he'd want to join the glee club, but I couldn't ask him right now. I mean he was showering in the locker room and it would've been weird," Finn said in a voiceover as Sam continued to perform as if no one was around but Finn knew he should keep an eye on this guy.
Meanwhile, Will makes his way to Sue's office knocking on her door. "You wanted to see me Sue?" he asked.
"Have a seat William," Sue said as Will hesitantly took a seat. "You know William, I always thought you should keep your friends close but your enemies closer...and I think this could be your lucky break. You are no longer my prime target but instead could be a loyal ally."
"What are you talking about Sue?" Will asked, making a face.
"I think you and I have the same enemy who is standing in both of our ways of having our budgets restored. We need to tame the Beiste," Sue said seriously as Will looked confused.
"And what exactly are you planning on doing?" he asked.
"I think we need to make her life so miserable that she has no choice but to quit and when that happens, our full budgets will be restored, the way it's supposed to be. Are you in or are you out?" Sue asked with a smirk, thinking she finally got Will on her side.
Will thought about it for a moment, but only a brief moment before shaking his head "No...I want my budget restored as much as you do Sue, but I'm not going to go about it like that. Bullying someone out of a job isn't what I want to teach my kids to do. I know that's your way of doing things but I don't roll that way," Will said simply as Sue narrowed her eyes at him.
"Consider yourself back on Sue Sylvester's hit list, if you thought what I did last year was bad, you ain't seen nothing yet," Sue said with a smirk as Will rolled his eyes "Now get the hell out of my office." Will got up shaking his head, what else could Sue do that she hadn't done already?
Cut to the auditorium after school where Finn meets Rachel after a disappointing football tryout. "Hey how was football practice?" Rachel asked her boyfriend, wrapping her arms around his waist.
Finn hugged his tiny girlfriend back and sighed "Not good. It wasn't a practice, it turned out to be a tryout for the team. God I haven't been that nervous since freshman year and I'm so out of practice," Finn frowned.
"I'm sure you did amazing. You always do," Rachel said trying to be encouraging as Finn shook his head.
"I don't think so," he said solemnly. Rachel wished she could make him feel better but knew they had very little time to waste.
"Well the reason why I wanted to meet up in our spot is because as leaders of the New Directions, it's our responsibility to recruit new members. Now I've taken the initiative to look into our most promising candidate so far," Rachel said as she presented a large file she had made to Finn who's eyes grew wide.
"You did all this research on the new football player?" Finn asked.
"What? No! I didn't even know he was an option," Rachel said with a shrug as she opened up the file "This is all about Sunshine Corazon."
"Who?" Finn asked, confused.
"She's the new foreign exchange student from the Philippines," Rachel chirped.
"And what makes you think she'd be interested in the Glee Club?" Finn asked.
"Because I saw her singing along to our performance. I thought she was the only one...did you say the new football player was also interested?" Rachel asked, surprised.
"Well not so much interested but I saw him tapping his foot to our number and I heard him singing in the shower," Finn said honestly as Rachel nodded impressed.
"Good. That's a good start. I think we need to find them and get them to join and we'll be more than set for this year," she beamed as Finn nodded.
"That's actually a really good plan," Finn smiled.
"I know," Rachel beamed "Now let's divide and conquer."
"You've got it," Finn nodded as he and Rachel headed off in opposite directions, ready to recruit the potential newest members of the New Directions.
Meanwhile, Artie was looking longingly at Tina and Mike who seemed to be in love and closer than ever before in the Brainiacs meeting. "I know what you're thinking...when did this happen? Well it all started over the summer," Artie said in a voiceover as we flashback to Artie in his house playing Halo. "I was in an intense online match of Halo over the summer that I kind of let things with Tina fall by the wayside." We see Artie playing multiple days in a row where more and more calls come in from Tina, which are promptly ignored since Artie is focused on his matches of Halo.
"Once I lost the tournament I tried to call her back but she was about to head to dance camp," Artie said in a voiceover as we cut to Tina and Artie meeting up at the Lima Bean, the local coffee shop.
"I wish you hadn't ignored me for the last few weeks, Artie. It felt like I wasn't important to you," Tina frowned, upset.
Artie took her hands in his "You are important to me. I promise that you are."
"If I really was important, you wouldn't have put those stupid games before our relationship. I really think we need to take a break while I'm gone at dance camp," Tina said simply.
"But I want to make this work," Artie frowned.
"I don't know what I want. I need a break to clear my head. Besides I'm going to be gone as long as you were for that tournament. If it's meant to be, then I'll call you," Tina said simply as she got up as Artie watched her leave frowning.
"She never called. In fact, it was worse than that, she fell in love at dance camp with Mike Chang. I should've known something was blossoming between them after they danced together last year. They became friends and of course it led to something more," Artie said in a voiceover as we cut back to the classroom as he looks at Mike and Tina with disdain as Tina and Mike are working together on the assignment exchanging loving glances. "I have to find a way to win her back...but how?" Artie thought to himself as he tried to figure out a way to get Tina's attention back which didn't seem to be an easy feat.
As Artie was lost in his thoughts, he was soon interrupted by Sunshine entering the classroom "Is this where the Academic Decathlon team meets?" Sunshine asked as that seemed to get Mike and Tina to look up from their own world.
"Yes, it is. Were you hoping to join the Brainiacs?" Mike asked as Sunshine nodded.
"I was on a similar team in the Philippines and was recommended to join," Sunshine said honestly.
"Welcome," Tina smiled softly "You do need to take a test to try out but I'm sure you'll make it on the team."
"Yeah it's not like we're known for academics here," Artie chuckled as Tina glanced his way chuckling at the statement.
"Well I'm willing to try out. I'm Sunshine by the way," Sunshine introduced herself.
"Well welcome to McKinley," Tina said.
"Thank you," Sunshine smiled back at her as she took her seat to get tested to make the team.
As Tina was running the test for Sunshine, Mike watches her lovingly. "I can't believe how lucky I've gotten. I know everyone was kind of surprised Tina and I ended up getting together but we fell in love over the summer at Dance Camp," Mike said in a voiceover as we cut to the Chang household where Mike is packing up his things. "After my best friend Matt moved away, I was looking forward to the distraction, especially since I love to dance so much," Mike said in a voiceover as we see him arriving to notice Tina there.
"Mike? Oh my God, what are you doing here?" Tina grinned, hugging him.
"My parents agreed to let me teach here this summer. It's good money and even though they think my dancing is just a hobby, they thought having a job could teach me responsibility," Mike said seriously.
"Well you can't argue with that. I'm just so happy I know someone here," Tina grinned.
"Me too," Mike smiled back at her. "After that, Tina became like my closest friend. It felt nice to have someone I could talk to again. We found out we had a lot more in common than we would've thought and soon enough, it turned into love," Mike said in a voiceover as flashbacks of Mike and Tina talking and hanging out throughout the summer played as well as them kissing for the first time after a practice. "Though it kind of got out of hand during the showcase," Mike said awkwardly in a voiceover as we cut to Mike and Tina performing together at Dance Camp, Tina singing 'Getting to Know You' from the King and I as Mike dances.
As Tina sings the two seem so passionately in love that they start kissing each other onstage. "Alright you two, break it up," the another dance teacher scolded as they both blushed a bit, realizing they got out of control.
We cut back to the classroom "Now that school's started, nothing's really changed other than being around her ex most of the time but Tina assures me that's long over and I believe her," Mike said in a voiceover as Tina shoots him a loving smile as Sunshine finishes up her test, doing incredibly well.
Tina tailed up the score "98%...wow. I think that's tied for the highest score any of us have gotten on that test," Tina said impressed.
"Does that mean I made the team?" Sunshine asked.
"Yes it does welcome to the Brainiacs," Tina grinned as Mike, Artie, Liz Rubella, and the other 4 members cheered, glad to have found their final member.
Meanwhile Rachel was fixing herself up in the bathroom when Sunshine entered wearing headphones. "Hello there, I noticed you admiring me in the courtyard earlier today while I was leading the New Directions in our performance of 'Empire State of Mind'," Rachel said confidently as Sunshine removed her earbud confused.
"What?" she asked.
"Do you not speak English?" Rachel asked, confused, she could've sworn the girl was singing along to their song.
"I totally speak English...I just had my music turned up," Sunshine said, gesturing to her iPod.
"Oh well, it's good to see you're dedicated to your craft as am I," Rachel said seriously.
"Yeah I really love music," Sunshine said honestly.
"Well, I think you'd be the perfect fit for the New Directions then. I need some good backup for when I sing heartfelt solos that will make the crowd go wild," Rachel said seriously.
"Well that sounds fun. I'd love to tryout," Sunshine smiled.
"Excellent," Rachel beamed as Sunshine put her headphones back in as she began to sing 'Telephone' by Lady Gaga ft. Beyoncé, mostly to herself.
As Sunshine began to sing, the irritation grew on Rachel. She was good, too good. Rachel soon joined in as Sunshine seemed to smile, thinking this was a friendly battle between the two of them but Rachel was in her face, enraged that someone was as good as she was. They continued to sing until Sue Sylvester walked in annoyed, cutting them off "Shut up!" she exclaimed as she walked out.
Rachel, however, was still enraged.
"That was kind of fun...I mean if you and the club are still interested I'd love to try out," Sunshine smiled softly.
Rachel shot her a fake smile "Oh we would love to have you. Tryouts are this afternoon in the gym, don't be late," she said.
"I won't be," Sunshine smiled, skipping out of the bathroom as Rachel smirked.
She wasn't going to let her go to the actual Glee Club tryouts, oh no she was sending her right into the lion's den, Cheerios tryouts with Sue Sylvester. If anyone would send Sunshine away, it would be Sue and Rachel knew it. She didn't need any more competition for solos after all, she was the queen of the New Directions and wasn't going to let anyone stand in her way.
Cut to the gym where Sue is sitting at a table with Becky Jackson and Santana on either side of her as they each have a clipboard to write down their notes for what they thought of the Cheerios tryouts. "Alright let's get this show on the road. First up let's go," Sue called out annoyed as the first student tried out doing a terrible routine.
"Horrifying," Santana said, shaking her head.
"Next!" Sue exclaimed as a montage of bad auditions played.
"Is this real life?" Becky asked after the bad audition.
"Next!" Sue exclaimed as Quinn entered as Sue narrowed her eyes at her. "No freaking way Fabray," Sue said.
"Coach Sylvester hear me out..." Quinn began.
"I made that mistake once and you let me down," Sue said as Quinn sighed.
"I know I made a huge mistake last year, I put my needs before the teams but this year will be different. Besides, I heard you got your confetti cannons taken away, and I bet there are a lot of churches who would love to donate to a squad who helped rehabilitate a teenager who got pregnant and spreads abstinence awareness while wearing a Cheerios uniform," Quinn said confidently as Santana smirked nodding, glad to see the old Quinn back.
"How do I know I can trust you?" Sue asked.
"You don't. But what you do know is when I'm determined to get something, I will do whatever it takes to get it and that's something I know you'd want as part of your squad," Quinn said simply.
Sue thought about it before calling "Next!"
Quinn smirked, walking off determinedly, thinking she got through to Sue and might be a Cheerio once again after all.
A confused Sunshine walked up. "Hi, I'm here to try out for the Glee Club," Sunshine said as Sue chuckled, shaking her head.
"You can't be serious. You came here to join the Glee Club?" Sue asked Sunshine.
"This is where Glee Club auditions are, aren't they? Rachel sent me here," Sunshine beamed.
Santana cringed, knowing this had to be a setup and Rachel was to blame.
"Did she now?" Sue smirked a bit as Sunshine nodded.
"Well then. Let me get back to you on that..." Sue began to say.
"Sunshine. Sunshine Corazon," Sunshine beamed.
"Sunshine. Got it," Sue said as Sunshine hugged her.
"Thank you," Sunshine said.
"Oh you're welcome," Sue called as Sunshine left. "That concludes tryouts ladies. I think we may have gained a lot more than a brand new minted Cheerio," Sue smirked.
"You got it Coach," Becky nodded as Santana cringed.
"Now Santana, I'm trusting you not to say anything about our little visitor to tryouts today. I want my full budget restored. So either you're with us or you're against us, got it?" Sue said determinedly.
"Yes Coach Sylvester," Santana sighed, knowing her hands were tied. Being head cheerleader meant she was the Queen Bee of the school and she couldn't risk losing that, no matter how much she preferred being a part of the Glee Club. Sue knew tearing down the Glee Club just got easier than she ever thought it could. If Rachel was sending someone the wrong way they had to be a threat to her. Sue made a note to call Carmel High. She wanted to make Vocal Adrenaline stronger than before, making it a lot easier for the Glee Club to no longer be in her way.
School was back in session the next day as Finn approached Sam who was at his locker. "Hey Sam, right?" Finn asked.
"Yeah...and you're Finn, the quarterback," Sam smiled softly, grabbing his books.
"Yeah, so umm this is probably going to sound weird but I heard you singing yesterday in the locker room," Finn said, rubbing the back of his neck.
"Oh...I thought no one was around..." Sam said awkwardly.
"I kind of got to the showers late but I used to do the same thing before I joined Glee Club," Finn said honestly.
"Oh yeah I've heard about that...aren't you like dating the tiny girl who's like their leader or something?" Sam asked.
"Yeah Rachel and I have been dating for awhile...anyway that's beside the point. I really think you'd be a good fit for the group," Finn said seriously as Sam sighed
"I don't know dude. I'm the new kid and I heard the way the other jocks talk about you glee guys. It's already hard moving to a new school, I just don't want to give anyone cause to bully me," Sam said honestly.
"I get it dude, I was afraid to join but I can promise you, it'll be worth it, just come by the choir room after school. You can meet some of the guys and maybe we could jam out together," Finn suggested as Sam nodded.
"Okay. See you after school," Sam smiled softly as Finn celebrated, operation get Sam to join Glee was well on its way.
Meanwhile, Quinn was getting ready in the girls bathroom, taking out her Cheerios uniform which had been given back to her by Sue. Quinn looked at herself in the mirror, trying to regain the confidence she once had back. She was back on the squad and one step closer to getting her life back on track. She exited the bathroom confidently, hands on hips. She walked down the hall to many shocked faces who whispered about Quinn once again being a Cheerio. It felt good to have the attention back on her for a good reason, being a Cheerio. Sam watches in awe of Quinn, not only finding her beautiful but loving the confidence he sees in her. Quinn headed to the choir room, for the first time with confidence as she met up with Brittany and Santana as the three walked in their triangular formation, ready to take on the second day of school.
The New Directions were all arriving for the before school practice. "So, how did it go with Sam?" Rachel asked Finn.
"Fine. He's going to stop by the choir room this afternoon. I'm going to have him meet some of the guys for a practice so he gets more comfortable before trying out for the group," Finn said honestly.
"That's a really good start. I'm proud of you," Rachel grinned, pecking his lips.
"What about Sunshine? Did all that research pay off?" Finn asked as Rachel shook her head lying.
"No, she didn't want to hang out with us losers," Rachel said simply.
"Aww that's too bad," Finn frowned as Tina overheard Finn ask about Sunshine. She couldn't explain it, but she had a gut feeling Rachel was lying. From what Tina saw Sunshine seemed enthusiastic about joining the school and she probably would've jumped at the chance to join the Glee Club. Tina made a mental note to ask her about it.
Their conversation was interrupted by Will. "Alright New Directions, I know yesterday's performance was a bust but I'm sure you still piqued some interest from students," Will said seriously as Kurt sighed.
"Mr. Schue, while I admire your confidence that everything will work out, I think it's time we face the music, no one in their right mind wants to join our island of misfit toys," Kurt said honestly as some others murmured in agreement.
"Guys, come on, let's not count the group out yet. We have plenty of opportunities to find new members," Will said seriously.
"Yeah like school pep rallies...we all know how that worked out," Mercedes chuckled, shaking her head.
"No Mr. Schue is right...I actually know someone who might be joining," Finn smiled.
"Finn, that's fantastic," Will smiled.
"Yeah, I was hoping we could use the choir room. I know tryouts aren't until Wednesday but I want him to get comfortable," Finn said.
"Yeah of course you can," Will nodded.
"Awesome," Finn grinned, feeling like they may have just found the 12th member.
"Now guys, if this new member wants to join, we'll have the minimum members we need but that doesn't mean we need to give up on finding new members, we want this team to be filled to the brim with talent," Will said seriously.
"I think we should just count ourselves lucky if one person even joins and call it a day," Santana said coolly, filing her nails as some of the New Directions murmured in agreement.
"Guys I am very disappointed in what I'm hearing. Now, I know you're a tight knit group but to be able to compete at Nationals we need to be on the lookout for more members, do you understand?" Will said as the New Directions nodded. "Now, let's get started on a performance for the homecoming pep rally," Will said as the New Directions nodded, trying to help find the perfect song for next Friday.
Later that day, Sam arrived in the choir room where Finn had asked Artie, Puck, and Mike to also stay. "Hey you made it," Finn grinned.
"Yeah I wasn't sure if I was going to come but here I am," Sam smiled softly as he carried in his guitar.
"You know Puck and Mike, right?" Finn asked, introducing them.
"Sure I do, we're all on the Titans together," Sam smiled, greeting them.
"And this is Artie, he's one of our best singers," Finn said, introducing Artie.
"Thanks Finn. Nice to meet you Sam," Artie smiled.
"You too, don't we have History together?" Sam asked.
"Oh yeah with Mrs. Hagberg," Artie nodded.
"Yeah, hey thanks for helping me out with the assignment. I get totally lost with school stuff," Sam said honestly.
"No problem," Artie smiled.
"Well now that you've met everyone, what don't you tell us about yourself," Finn said.
"Okay...well as you all know I'm Sam Evans, I'm on the football team, like comic books and videogames, I do some pretty awesome impressions, and I'm dyslexic so my grades aren't really that good but I'm working on it so I can play," Sam said honestly.
"Dude, I can't focus on anything you're saying...your mouth is huge," Puck said looking at it as Sam bit his lip, nervously. He was slightly self conscious about his mouth. "How many tennis balls can you fit in there?" Puck asked.
"I've never had any balls in my mouth...have you?" Sam asked as Puck seemed gobsmacked by the question.
"I like this kid," Finn whispered to Mike and Artie.
"I agree, if he can stand up to Puck, I'm sure he'll be a great addition," Mike whispered back.
"So, did you have something you wanted to sing?" Artie asked, changing the subject.
"Umm yeah...I've never really sung in front of people before so I'm a little nervous," Sam said honestly.
"Well we can help you out. What song were you thinking?" Finn asked Mike, Puck, and Artie nodded.
"Umm 'Billionaire'?" Sam suggested as Finn snapped his fingers as he went behind the drums. Puck grabbed his guitar and Mike and Artie joined Sam in front of the choir room as Sam began to sing 'Billionaire' by Travie McCoy ft. Bruno Mars.
As Sam performed the guys were impressed by his voice. Artie soon joined in rapping as Puck, Mike, and Finn sang background for them as the guys were into the performance smiling, seeming to feed off each other. They soon finished the performance. "That was really cool," Sam grinned a bit.
"Yeah it was," Puck said.
"Do you think you could come back and do that again for the rest of the group?" Finn asked in a hopeful tone.
Sam nodded "Yeah...I think so."
"Alright!" Finn grinned as he did a drumroll, thinking the New Directions had found their 12th member.
Meanwhile, Tina approached Sunshine at lunch. "Hey, is this seat taken?" Tina asked.
"No, you can sit there if you want to," Sunshine smiled as Tina sat down across from her.
"So I overheard you were thinking of trying out for Glee Club," Tina began as Sunshine looked confused.
"I thought I already tried out. Rachel said to go to the gym after school so I did...although I didn't sing, the lady who was sitting there said she'd let me know if I made it," Sunshine said as Tina gasped.
"She sent you to Cheerio tryouts thinking Coach Sylvester would make an example out of you," Tina said, shaking her head.
"Why would she do that?" Sunshine asked, slightly confused as Tina sighs.
"I think I know. She probably views you as competition just like every other female singer in Glee Club," Tina said as Sunshine frowned, she had truly thought she had made a friend in Rachel meanwhile, she had been plotting to get rid of her all along.
"She sounds awful," Sunshine couldn't help but observe.
"She's not usually this bad...look I know you had a bad experience with your audition but please, come after school tomorrow, I promise you the rest of the team isn't like her," Tina said seriously.
"I'll think about it," Sunshine said honestly as Tina nodded, understanding why Sunshine was hesitant.
"Well I'll see you later," Tina smiled softly, noticing Mike.
"Yeah see you," Sunshine said watching Tina walk away, still unsure if she would try out for the New Directions.
That afternoon as promised, Coach Beiste put up the roster for the football team as many of the guys went up to it, celebrating that they had made the team. Finn, however, approached it only to be disheartened when it read "Finn Hudson, Second String Quarterback".
"I guess Coach Beiste wanted a real team instead of some singing pansy as her quarterback," Karofsky chuckled, smirking.
"Yeah, looks like we're going to have a real leader this year. Have fun second string," Azimio chuckled as he and Karofsky high-fived that they had made the team.
Sam, overhearing all of this, began to question whether or not he should try out for the Glee Club, once again worried that his reputation might take a hit and that was something he couldn't afford, not now.
Cut to the auditorium where a devastated Finn and the New Directions are sitting, waiting to see if anyone comes to try out. Most of the New Directions seem fairly bored, being that no one has shown up yet. That is until Sunshine arrives "Sorry I'm late...is this where Glee Club tryouts are?" she asked nervously.
"Yes it is, why don't you get set up onstage then you can try out," Will said smiling softly as Mike, Tina, and Artie couldn't help but grin seeing Sunshine arriving, meanwhile, Rachel was once again seething.
"Okay thanks," Sunshine smiled, handing Brad, the piano player, her sheet music. "Hello I'm Sunshine Corazon and I will be singing 'Listen' from the movie Dreamgirls," Sunshine announced.
"It was a Broadway musical first," Rachel scoffed as Quinn shhed her.
"Shut up," Puck said, rolling his eyes at Rachel as Sunshine began to sing 'Listen' by Beyoncé.
As Sunshine performs the New Directions watch her impressed as the majority of them beam, seeming as though they realize how lucky they are to have her. Rachel, however, is seething throughout the performance. As Sunshine finishes the performance the New Directions applaud her loudly, all but Rachel who is upset. Finn tries to squeeze her hand supportively which calms her down only slightly.
"Wow...I think I speak for everyone when I say, welcome to the New Directions," Will said as the New Directions continued to cheer, feeling as though they have truly grown stronger with the addition of Sunshine, all but Rachel who is still too enraged and feeling as though she has some real competition on her hands.
Later that afternoon Finn enters the locker room as Sam is getting ready for practice. "Hey we missed you at Glee tryouts," Finn said as Sam sighed.
"I'm really sorry about that. I really wanted to tryout I just panicked. Like I told you before, it's hard enough being the new kid and now there's all this pressure being the quarterback, I just don't think I can do it without creating waves in the team. I know you did but it feels like it might have been part of why you guys weren't really a team on the field," Sam said simply as that seemed to sting for Finn, he truly had wanted to bring the Glee Club and the football team together.
"I guess I get it..congrats on making the quarterback though, I'm sure you'll do a great job," Finn said smiling weakly.
"Thanks," Sam smiled back at him "Listen, I better get out there. Coach Beiste doesn't like it when we're late."
"Yeah of course...I'll be right out," Finn said as Sam rushed onto the field. Finn couldn't help but sigh, feeling as though he had been replaced, he could only hope that it wasn't true and that things would get better but he had a feeling it wouldn't.
The next day Will approached Sunshine at her locker, who seemed to be clearing it out "Well Sunshine, I wanted to give you our official rehearsal schedule for the rest of the year. We're really looking forward to having you be a part of our team," Will smiled down at Sunshine who weakly smiled back at him.
"Oh she's not going to need that," a tall man who was helping her clear out the locker said.
"I'm sorry...are you her father?" Will asked, making a face.
"No, I'm her Coach. Dustin Goolsby, I'm the new coach of Vocal Adrenaline," Dustin said introducing himself as Will looked shocked.
"How did you even find out about her?" he asked as Sue smirked.
"Hey William, you know you could've prevented this if you had just taken me up on my generous offer," Sue said as she passed by as Will scoffed, he should've known Sue was behind this.
"I'm really sorry Mr. Schuester, but Carmel High gave me and my mom an offer we couldn't refuse. They offer a lot more programs and have better opportunities for a foreign exchange student. We even got our own condo. I would've stayed here but I think Rachel would've continued to make my life a living hell," Sunshine said honestly.
"Let's go Sunshine, your better school awaits," Dustin smirked as he zipped up her Hello Kitty backpack walking out with Sunshine as many of the New Directions shook their heads dismayed, Rachel had cost them big time and they weren't in the forgiving mood, not in the least.
Rachel made her way to the choir room as Finn bit his lip. "I wouldn't go in there if I were you," he said seriously.
"Why not?" Rachel asked, surprised.
"Everyone found out about what you did, sending Sunshine to Coach Sylvester. That really wasn't cool Rachel," Finn said upset.
"I'm sorry, okay? I just thought she would take away from everyone else's contributions. I mean, I didn't want the rest of the team to feel worthless," Rachel said simply.
"You and I both know that isn't the truth Rachel," Finn said shaking his head.
"Okay fine. I love the spotlight too much to give it up to someone else. She was just as good as I was and I couldn't risk Mr. Schue handing out solos to her over me," Rachel said, finally admitting the truth as Finn sighed, knowing exactly how she felt.
"Look, I get it, it's scary when you feel like someone is going to overshadow you at what you do best but I think you should've had a little bit more confidence in yourself Rach, now instead she's joined Vocal Adrenaline making them that much stronger," Finn said as Rachel sighed, knowing he had a point.
"I know...I really messed up. I'm sure just like the rest of the group, you're done with me too," Rachel said looking down as Finn lifted her chin up.
"No I'm not. Look, I don't agree with what you did Rachel but I'm not going to break up with you over it," Finn said seriously as he and Rachel shared a kiss.
"Thank you Finn...I will never break up with you either," Rachel said seriously before grabbing her things.
"Where are you going?" Finn asked, confused.
"To rehearse in the auditorium. You might be okay with me singing but I think the rest of the club needs a break...at least for a little while," Rachel said seriously as Finn nodded, walking off as Rachel then began to perform 'What I Did For Love' from A Chorus Line.
Rachel sang as she walked through the hall, making her way to the auditorium getting out all her emotions of how she felt about truly messing things up for the New Directions only to get the love and adoration of the crowd.
We cut to the choir room where Mike and Tina are dancing happily as Artie watches them longingly.
Cut to the gym at Cheerios practice where the girls are making a pyramid where Santana is annoyed being the base as Quinn stands triumphantly back on top, feeling as though she is slowly regaining control back of her life.
Cut back to the auditorium as Rachel finishes up the song onstage before heading to the choir room where she looks longingly at the New Directions who all seem to be bonding together. She carefully enters the choir room as the song ends, closing the door behind her, ready to face whatever hell comes her way.