Author's Note: Annnnnnd we are back! Sorry everyone that it took me so long to figure out the last few pieces of this episode, but I promise it will be worth it. As always there is a trigger warning for references to a past rape, so readers discretion is advised.
Main Characters (In order of appearance):
Naya Rivera as Santana Lopez
Heather Morris as Brittany S. Pierce
Kevin McHale as Artie Abrams
Cory Monteith as Finn Hudson
Lea Michele as Rachel Berry
Amber Riley as Mercedes Jones
Harry Shum Jr. as Mike Chang
Dianna Agron as Quinn Fabray
Chord Overstreet as Sam Evans
Jenna Ushkowitz as Tina Cohen-Chang
Chris Colfer as Kurt Hummel
Matthew Morrison as Will Schuester
Darren Criss as Blaine Anderson
Jane Lynch as Sue Sylvester
Supporting Characters in order of appearance:
Mark Salling as Noah 'Puck' Puckerman
Max Adler as Dave Karofsky
Telly Leung as Wes
Titus Makin Jr. as David
Charlotte Ross as Judy Fabray
Some of the New Directions are gathered once again in the choir room with the exceptions of Sam, Quinn, Tina, and Kurt as Santana looks over at Brittany and Artie who are somewhat friendly again, much to her dismay. She scoffed as she thought to herself "Look at them, I tried to keep them apart and all it got me was a few days of Brittany giving me the cold shoulder. I can't risk losing her, so trying to get between them again isn't going to work. What I need is a new guy for arm candy, someone who needs to be with the captain of the Cheerios to get back on top," Santana thought to herself as she smirked towards Finn, knowing he was her target. "Now I know I'm still 'dating' Puckerman but all he was to me, was a really good cover for my true feelings for her," Santana said in a voiceover as she looked longingly at Brittany. "The only problem with Finn is he's still with that little troll," Santana scoffed in a voice over as she looked at Rachel who seemed to be clinging onto Finn. "Still, I seduced him once away from her, he even lost his v card to me, so I can definitely do it again," Santana said in a voice over as a smirk appears on her face but soon falls when she sees an all too familiar face "Holy crap," she mutters out loud as Puck enters the choir room, smirking back at her.
"Miss me?" he asked as he sat in the front of the choir room.
"Obviously," Santana said, pretending to still have feelings for him. Maybe her plan for Finn could wait another day, she'd have to break it off with him first anyway. Brittany, however, didn't look pleased as she sat beside Santana, especially worried about how Quinn was going to react when she arrived.
As almost on cue, Sam and Quinn start to arrive together, seeming close once again even after Quinn had rejected going further with him the week before. She was glad their relationship was back on track but her face quickly fell when she saw the one person she had hoped wouldn't come back and ruin her happiness, Puck. She held onto Sam tightly who looked confused at first then noticed a new member sitting there.
"Is that him?" Sam whispered as Quinn nodded nervously. "We can leave rehearsal if being with him is too much for you," Sam told her seriously as Quinn sighed.
"No. I'm going to have to face him at some point, let's just sit in the back," Quinn suggested as Sam nodded, holding Quinn's hand in his, something Puck seemed to notice as the two of them sat in the back of the choir room.
Meanwhile, Kurt and Tina were walking together in the hall. "I take it we have a lot of sweater trends to look forward to this season," Tina grinned as Kurt smiled back at her. Kurt was then shoved into the lockers by Karofsky as Tina looked horrified. "You okay?" She asked.
"Yeah. Fine," Kurt said, brushing it off as they entered the choir room and quickly took their seats before Will took over.
"Alright guys, let's get down to business! First, let's welcome back Noah Puckerman," Will said as the New Directions gave Puck some mild applause, mostly Santana, Finn, and Rachel actually seeming happy he was there. Quinn however looked away. "Puck, I hope your time in juvie has taught you a lesson or two about right and wrong?" Will said.
"Are you kidding me? I ruled that place. All I did was crack skulls and lift weights all day," Puck said cockily.
"Oh, what a catch, can't believe I ever let you go," Quinn said sarcastically, rolling her eyes, still not looking Puck in the eye.
"And now, drumroll, Finn!" Will said as Finn did a mock drumroll with his hands. "Because I have in my hand our competition for sectionals next month." The New Directions excitedly chattered. "First, the acapella group from the all-boys private school in Westerville, the Dalton Academy Warblers," Will said as the Glee Club cheered.
"Okay, hold up. Like a million awesome gay jokes just popped into my head," Santana smirked as Kurt gave her a dirty look.
"And the other team to beat, the Hipsters. A first-year club from the Warren township continuing education program. Now, they are a glee club composed entirely of elderly people getting their high school GEDs," Will read.
"Is that legal?" Rachel asked, horrified.
"How are we supposed to compete against a bunch of adorable old people?" Mercedes asked as Puck turned around.
"Are you kidding? Brittle bones," he smirked "Give one of those old ladies a good luck pat on the rear, it'll shatter her pelvis." Will shook his head.
"Moving on. Since this seems to get you guys jazzed about sectionals last year, I wanna make this week our second annual boys versus girls tournament," Will said as the glee club cheered "So! Split up into two groups, and, uh, figure out which songs you're gonna sing."
Quinn was definitely relieved for this assignment, especially because it would keep her separate from Puck, she did however worry about Sam and Puck getting into it. The guys and girls quickly split up into their two teams and began discussing ideas when Kurt headed to be on the girls team. "Kurt, gonna say it again. Boys team," Will said as Kurt looked upset as he quickly slinked away to the boys side. He sat down less than thrilled as the bell then rang and the New Directions got up.
Kurt walked solemnly out of the choir room. "This isn't good," Quinn frowned a bit to Mercedes and Tina.
"I know what you mean Quinn. I feel sorry for Kurt," Mercedes agreed.
"That's not the worst part of it," Tina frowned.
"Really? What happened?" Mercedes asked.
"The reason Kurt and I were late to Glee Rehearsal was because Karofsky shoved him into the lockers," Tina frowned.
"What?" Mercedes and Quinn exclaimed.
"I couldn't believe it. I know it's happened to him before but this time it just seemed so personal," Tina said upset.
"Poor Kurt," Quinn said, shaking her head.
"Yeah he doesn't deserve to go through this," Mercedes agreed.
"I know...look don't tell him I told you anything," Tina said as she left with Mike.
"Hey, are you ready to go?" Sam asked as he approached Quinn.
"Definitely. See you around Mercedes," Quinn smiled a bit as she and Mercedes said their goodbyes.
Sam and Quinn headed off down the hallway. "Are you okay? You know, now that he's back?" Sam asked Quinn worriedly.
"I've been better," Quinn admitted honestly, sighing "Look about what almost happened last week…"
"Hey, don't even worry about that. You're not ready and that's okay," Sam said, holding her hands in his as Quinn squeezed his hands gently.
"Thank you for being so understanding. I really am the luckiest girl in this school," Quinn smiled softly.
"Please I'm the lucky one," Sam said as he kissed her cheek as Quinn giggled a bit. Puck was watching them, outraged, how could Quinn have moved on so fast from him? It was at that moment that he decided he was going to get even, but actively pursue Santana in front of her to try to make her jealous.
Puck then approached Artie at his locker as he took Artie's wheelchair. "I know it's not my place to ask, but can you push me down the back staircase? My injuries should be the same, but it's more lightly populated so the humiliation won't be as bad," Artie asked.
"Relax, I'm here to take care of you! You're my boy now," Puck smirked.
"I don't understand," Artie said confused.
"I got outta juvie early because of this stupid trial for good behavior. They said I could do community service possibly for the rest of my sentence, depending on how the trial goes and I ain't picking up trash along the freeway, that's ghetto. So I told my probey officer I knew a cripple that needed help and she went for it," Puck smirked.
"I'm your community service?" Artie asked dumbfounded.
"No way I'm going back to juvie. There's no chicks, and no kosher meal options at that place," Puck huffed.
"Cool, so we're like friends," Artie grinned as Puck shook his head.
"Whoa, slow down, Professor X, I never said anything about liking you," Puck said as Artie's face fell "Now, shut up real quick. We're gonna steal some food from the cafeteria. This chair's a great place for hiding stuff." Puck wheeled him off as Artie seemed unsure of what to think of Puck using him as community service.
Cut to Kurt walking down the hallway as he is shoved once again by Karofsky. "What is your problem?" Kurt yelled at Karofsky as he began to walk away.
"You talking back to me?" Karofsky asked, annoyed "You want a piece of the Fury?"
"The Fury?" Kurt asked, confused.
"It's what I named my fist," Karofsky smirked, proud of himself.
"Well, with that level of creativity, you could easily become assistant manager at a rendering plant," Kurt muttered as Karofsky approached him.
"I don't know what that is, but if I find out it's bad, the Fury's gonna find you," Karofsky huffed as he walked off leaving a terrified Kurt at the lockers as Will who was watching the whole encounter approached him.
Cut to Will's office where Kurt is seated. "Is there anything that I could do?" Will asked.
"No. This is my hill to climb alone," Kurt said solemnly.
"Can I be honest?" Will asked as Kurt nodded "I think it's getting to you. Usually this stuff rolls right off your back, but lately you've been belligerent, angry, pushing people away."
"Can I be honest with you?" Kurt sighed as Will nodded "You, like everyone else at this school, are too quick to let homophobia slide. And your lesson plans are boring and repetitive. Boys versus girls? That doesn't challenge any of us."
"You mean because I didn't let you join the girls like you wanted?" Will asked.
"To answer your question, yes. I'm unhappy," Kurt said as he got up to leave "And yes, being the only out gay kid at this school gets me down. But most of all, I'm not challenged in the least here." Kurt walked out of Will's office as Will looked saddened. Kurt had been one of the founding members of Glee Club, hearing him saying he wasn't challenged in the least gave Will an idea.
Cut to the choir room where Will is talking to the New Directions. "I'm not tossing the baby out with the bath water here," Will said.
"I've totally done that," Brittany said as Will made a face.
"We're just making an adjustment. Instead of just our average boys vs. girls competition this will be the first ever Battle of the Bands. Boys, you are now doing songs traditionally sung by girls groups," Will said as Kurt's face lit up this was the opportunity he had been waiting for, a chance to be challenged. "And girls, try some rock. The Who, the Stones. The more opposite your choice, the more choice you get," Will said as the girls seemed to nod. Kurt then pulled the guys in.
"Don't worry, gentlemen. I have this one under control," Kurt grinned.
Cut to the guys in the Spanish classroom where Kurt is presenting his ideas for the mashup. "Now! Obviously for this medley to work, I'm gonna have to sing lead, and of course when you're singing Diana Ross, Bob Mikas feather boas are a must," Kurt said using a pointer to point to his board.
"Isn't this lesson about opposites?" Artie asked, looking at the other guys confused "I mean, you in a sequin gown and feather boa is exactly what you'd expect."
"Okay, who said anything about a gown?" Kurt asked somewhat annoyed.
"Uh, dude. Why don't you make yourself useful and go put some rat poison in them old folks' jello or visit the Garglers?" Puck said as he walked to his seat.
"The Warblers," Kurt corrected.
"Whatever. See what they're up to," Puck said without a care as he threw the football to Finn "And you can wear all the feathers you want. You'll blend right in."
Kurt was clearly hurt by what Puck had to say to him. With this new theme he thought maybe, just maybe he'd get the respect of his team. "Fine," Kurt sighed as he got his boards, packing up to leave as Sam, Mike, and Finn exchanged looks of shock.
"Kurt...you don't have to leave," Finn frowned a bit as Kurt turned around.
"I think everyone else has made it very clear that I'm not welcome here. You think you can do this without me, fine. I have other things I can do," Kurt said in a hurt tone as he rushed out of the classroom.
"What's his problem?" Puck smirked.
"Uhh you were kind of rude to him," Sam said, exchanging puzzled looks with Finn and Mike.
"And what's it to you, quarterback?" Puck said.
"Kurt's a part of this team and you're kind of going out of your way to make him an outsider," Sam shot back. Puck rolled his eyes.
"Don't you get it, he's always been the outsider of this group. Like it or not he'd rather be performing with the girls which is what he made very clear in practice today," Puck said.
"So because he tried to enter the girls group you're going to shun him now?" Sam asked, confused.
"Well...he was the one who told the girls about our Vitamin D possession last year," Finn offered, biting his lip. Sam shook his head, clearly upset by this.
"I guess I get where you're coming from but understand this, without Kurt, we might as well hand the win to the girls," Sam said as he exited the classroom.
Kurt drove himself for the hour and a half drive to Dalton Academy. Looking around the place seemed a lot more friendly than McKinley High. Sure, the guys were wearing uniforms but they looked so...dignified. Kurt could see there were a bunch of students rushing to something but he couldn't figure it out. He stopped a guy who looked friendly with dark curly hair and brown eyes.
"Oh, excuse me. Um, hi. Can I ask you a question? I'm new here," Kurt said as the boy turned around and smiled.
"My name's Blaine," Blaine said.
"Kurt. So what exactly is going on?" Kurt asked.
"The Warblers! Every now and then they throw an impromptu performance in the senior commons. Tends to shut the school up for a while," Blaine explained.
"So, wait, the glee club here is kind of cool?" Kurt asked, confused.
"The Warblers are like rock stars," Blaine grinned as Kurt nodded "Come on, I know a shortcut," Blaine said as he grabbed Kurt's hand and ran with him down the hallway. Kurt couldn't help but grin the entire time he was with Blaine. There was just something about him that Kurt just instantly connected to. They soon arrived at the senior commons.
"Ooh, I stick out like a sore thumb," Kurt said awkwardly.
"Well, next time, don't forget your jacket, new kid. You'll fit right in," Blaine smiled as he then joined the Warblers "Now, if you'll excuse me."
Blaine then began to sing the Katy Perry hit 'Teenage Dream' with the Warblers. Kurt was mesmerized by his performance.
Kurt couldn't help but smile through the Warbler's performance. Blaine was not only kind enough to have brought him to the performance not knowing who he was but he also was an amazing singer. Kurt couldn't help but feel like their connection was something special. In some ways he wished he wasn't at the competing school. He felt that he and Blaine could really have something special together, whether it be a friendship or more. Kurt left Dalton Academy that afternoon having found something more than what he originally came for.
The next day at school Puck and Artie were in the middle of the courtyard. "Shouldn't we be studying geometry, aren't you failing?" Artie asked awkwardly as Puck got his guitar out.
"One thing I learned in juvie, cash is king," Puck said as he threw some ones into his guitar case "Lets people know we're not doing it for free."
"What, you think people are gonna pay us to sing? I don't think busking is allowed in school," Artie said awkwardly.
"Watch and learn, young jedi in a wheelchair," Puck smirked as he began to play his guitar to 'One Love' by Bob Marley and the Wailers.
"This is so...badass," Artie said in shock as Puck began to go around to get people to pay them. People continued to put money in the guitar case throughout the performance as Artie and Puck sang together, both seeming to enjoy it. As the song ended, Artie looked down at the guitar case, shocked.
"Holy crap, there's like three hundred bucks in here," Artie said surprised.
"Yeah, you really can't put a dollar mat on the value of talent plus fear," Puck smirked.
"I can, it's about three hundred bucks," Artie chuckled then asked "What are we gonna do with it?"
"Buy a buttload of clove cigarettes and the rest, I don't know," Puck shrugged as he noticed Artie looking at Brittany as she walked down the stairs with Santana "You want her? You don't need any cash for that. She's free."
"She was my first. Now I think I want her back," Artie admitted.
"So go get her," Puck said.
"It's not that simple, I was kind of mean to her when I blew her off," Artie said honestly.
"Oh, this is perfect," Puck exclaimed as Artie looked confused "The thing about chicks is you only have to be a fraction as nice to them as you are mean to them to get them to like you again."
"So what do we do?" Artie asked.
"Here's a little community service coming at ya. You and I are gonna go on a double date with Santana and Brittany to the 'Stix," Puck smirked.
"Yeah!" Artie grinned as he and Puck fist pumped.
"Best community servicer ever, right?" Puck smirked as the bell rang.
Also the next day, Blaine invited Kurt to get some coffee at a local cafe. "Latte?" Blaine asked as he handed Kurt the latte.
"Thank you," Kurt said in a whispery voice, had he been caught?
"This is Wes and David." Blaine said, introducing the other Warblers who came with him.
"It's very civilized of you to invite me for coffee before you beat me up for spying," Kurt said.
"We are not going to beat you up," David said.
"You were such a terrible spy, we thought it was sort of endearing," Wes smiled a bit.
"Which made me think that spying on us wasn't really the reason you came." Blaine said.
"Can I ask you guys a question?" Kurt asked as the three guys nodded "Are you guys all gay?" That got a chuckle out of all three guys. Kurt felt like he wanted to disappear at that moment, were none of them gay?
"Uh, uh, no. I mean, I am, but no, these two have girlfriends," Blaine said honestly as Kurt's eyes seem to light up. Blaine was also gay, so this time he really did have a chance.
"This is not a gay school. We just have a zero tolerance harassment policy," Wes said honestly.
"Everybody gets treated the same. No matter what they are. It's pretty simple," David said as Blaine could see the wheels spinning in Kurt's head.
"Would you guys excuse us?" Blaine said as David and Wes got up.
"Take it easy, Kurt," David said as he left.
"I take it you're having trouble at school," Blaine said.
"I'm the only person out of the closet at my school," Kurt admitted emotionally "And I tried to stay strong about it, but there's this Neanderthal who's made it his mission to make my life a living hell. And nobody seems to notice."
"I know how you feel," Blaine admitted as Kurt felt so much closer to him "I got taunted at my old school, and it really pissed me off. I even complained about it to the faculty. And they were sympathetic and all, but you could just tell that nobody really cared. It was like, hey, if you're gay, your life's just gonna be miserable. Sorry. Nothing we can do about it," Blaine paused as Kurt couldn't have agreed more. It was nice to finally talk to someone who was going through what he was. "So I left. I came here. Simple as that," Blaine said as he took a breath "So you have two options. I mean, I'd love to tell you to just come enroll here, but tuition at Dalton's sort of steep, and I know that's not an option for everybody. Or you can refuse to be the victim. Prejudice is just ignorance, Kurt. And you have a chance right now to teach him."
"How?" Kurt asked.
"Confront him. Call him out," Blaine said as Kurt looked surprised as Blaine got emotional.
"I ran, Kurt. I didn't stand up. I let bullies chase me away. And it is something that I really, really regret." Kurt knew he had a lot to consider. As much as he loved being at McKinley there was something about Dalton that just felt more like home to him. Sure, he'd be far away from his friends and family but if things kept up the way they were going with Karofsky, Kurt knew it was an option he had to consider at the very least as a last resort. Kurt left Dalton feeling so much more at peace than he'd ever felt before. Meeting Blaine saved him. Sure, he'd been down before but Glee Club was what picked him up. Maybe he needed a friend who was gay to help him through all the hurdles.
Cut to the Choir room that afternoon where the girls are discussing last year's competition. "The boys beat us the last time we competed against them, we've gotta bring the noise hard this time," Mercedes said.
"To be fair, they didn't officially beat us. We got busted for Vitamin D possession before the vote," Quinn offered.
"Wait. Something's definitely wrong," Santana said as everyone looked at her "Why isn't Rachel talking?"
"Yeah, she should totally be bossing us around right now," Brittany agreed.
"The idea of the assignment was to do the opposite of what we normally do," Rachel said finally speaking "I'm just trying to stick to the lesson plan, which is proving nearly impossible since you're gluing the sequins on backwards."
Puck and Artie then began to enter the choir room "Spies!" Rachel screamed.
"Lighten up! We're here to talk to Santana and Brittany," Puck smirked as he then turned to Artie and whispered "Remember: don't trust your instincts."
"Hmm. So. How does it feel to be a free man?" Santana said flirtatiously to Puck.
"All I can say is I don't want a long-term relationship with either of you," Artie said before adding "Especially Brittany since I'm not in love with her."
"Do you guys wanna go out to dinner tonight?" Brittany asked.
"Not really," Puck said coolly.
"Oh," Santana said.
"Tell you what. You two show up at Breadstix tomorrow night around seven, and if we don't find hotter chicks to date tonight, we might show up," Puck smirked.
"You are totally cool," Santana said breathlessly.
"Awesome," Brittany grinned as Puck walked out rolling Artie, satisfied with his accomplishment and had noticed the angry look on Quinn's face, thinking he had done his job.
"I can't believe it. You're a genius," Artie said, shaking his head as Puck smirked. Of course things were going to work out how he wanted. Why wouldn't they?
Rachel, Quinn, Mercedes, and Tina exchanged weirded out glances. How could Brittany and Santana have fallen for what Puck did? Quinn in particular couldn't believe Santana would get back with Puck, especially after everything that he had put her through. Quinn wasn't jealous in the least, she just wished Puck was still in juvie and out of her life. She hoped once the trial occurred, maybe that could be a reality for her.
Kurt was noticeably absent from the guys rehearsals. He simply didn't feel like anyone appreciated him. Sure, Finn tried to stand up for him but Kurt knew no matter what he did he was always going to be an outsider in the group. He was by his locker packing his things when Sam approached him. "We've missed you at Glee rehearsals," Sam said kindly.
"I seriously doubt that. I think all you 'bros' are probably working together just fine without me," Kurt said, continuing to look into his locker and not at Sam.
"That's not true," Sam frowned as Kurt looked up at him "Look, I can't speak for the other guys but it feels like we have a piece missing without you for this whole boys vs. girls thing. I know what Puck said deeply hurt you but he doesn't speak for all of us. We could really use your expertise to win this competition." Kurt seemed to think about it. He was surprised that Sam would even bother talking to him. There had been no bad blood between them but Sam was the star quarterback, on the track to be the most popular guy in school and Kurt simply wasn't. He knew Finn came around but it took a lot for him to stop hanging out with the other football players, Sam just seemed different.
"Okay I'll come back...on one condition," Kurt said.
"Name it," Sam said.
"I'll be in charge of wardrobe," Kurt grinned as Sam playfully wrapped his arm around Kurt.
"You've got yourself a deal," Sam said as he then walked off. Kurt couldn't help but feel so much more hopeful after talking to Sam. Sure he had Blaine now and things seemed brighter but maybe he wouldn't have to leave McKinley after all.
The next night at Breadstix Puck was telling Santana and Brittany the riveting stories from juvie. "So there I was at juvie in the breakfast line in the mess hall, when I noticed me and the guy behind me going for the same waffle. This guy's 6'11. 300 easy. He's got his teeth filed into canines, tats everywhere. It gets better. So I turn around, I flex my left peck, and I flex my right peck. And I say to the guy, leggo my eggo," Puck said as the others looked intrigued "And you know what he does? He lets go of my eggo!" Santana, Artie, and Brittany celebrated.
"You should be our nation's president," Santana said in her most convincing voice, trying to pretend like she was so into Puck, meanwhile all she wanted to do was be with Brittany who she was mostly watching throughout this date.
"Maybe," Puck shrugged as Brittany continued to squeeze Artie's leg.
"I've been squeezing your leg for like, the last hour and a half," she said seriously as she then whispered "Are you not attracted to me?"
"Sorry, I was really distracted by our waitress," Artie said, playing it cool like Puck had taught him to as Puck nodded "She's totally into me."
The Waitress then approached them with the check, she was an elderly woman who Artie clearly wasn't into. "I can take that when you're ready," the waitress said kindly.
"Thank you," Artie smiled as the waitress left the check then walked away.
"Alright, guys, let's move, this meal has been comped," Puck said.
"What?" Artie asked confused, where was Puck going with this?
"Dude, I don't pay for food. It's my thing, yo. So we're going to dine and dash," Puck said as Artie looked conflicted "Let's go." Santana and Brittany got up with Puck to leave while Artie stayed behind quickly stuffing a 20 into the check.
"Do you need any change?" The waitress asked.
"Keep it. Thanks," Artie said softly as the waitress walked off.
Puck walked back to Artie angrily "What the hell was that about?"
"Sorry, I couldn't do it," Artie sighed "She gave us free refills, and I figure she's got kids, I'm not gonna do that to her."
"Whatever dude, you wussed out," Puck said, rolling his eyes "So have fun taking the short bus home, because I'll be escorting these lovely ladies back to Che Puckerman for a little sookie-sookie."
"Wait. Seriously?" Artie said dumbfounded.
"Damn straight," Puck said "I'm giving you all my trade secrets here. If you don't want my help, then fine. You're on your own." Puck then left with Brittany and Santana leaving Artie hurt and alone.
Cut to the Battle of the Bands where the girls are up performing their song which is a mashup of 'Viva La Vida' by Coldplay and 'My Generation' by the Who.
Quinn:
I used to rule the world.
Seas would rise when I gave the word.
Now in the morning, I sleep alone.
Sweep the streets I used to own.
Tina:
I used to roll the dice, feel the fear in my enemy's eyes.
Listen as the crowd would sing now the old king is dead!
Long live the king!
Rachel:
One minute I held the key next the walls were closed on me
And I discovered that my castles stand upon pillars of salt and pillars of sand
New Directions Girls:
I hear Jerusalem bells are ringing.
Roman Cavalry choirs are singing.
Kurt got a text from Blaine that said "Courage" and he couldn't stop smiling at it. Blaine knew exactly what to say to try to help him through this.
New Directions Girls:
Be my mirror, my sword and shield, my missionaries in a foreign field.
For some reason I can't explain once you go there was never.
Tina:
Never a honest word and that was when I ruled the world
The song then change tempo.
Santana:
People try to put us d-down.
Quinn, Rachel, Tina, Mercedes, Brittany:
Talkin' 'bout my generation
Santana:
Just because we get around.
Quinn, Rachel, Tina, Brittany:
Talkin' 'bout my generation
Mercedes:
Things they do look awful c-c-cold.
Quinn, Rachel, Tina, Santana, Brittany:
Talkin' 'bout my generation
Mercedes:
I hope I die before I get old.
Quinn, Rachel, Tina, Brittany:
Talkin' 'bout my generation
Santana:
It's my generation, it's my generation (Quinn, Rachel, Tina, Mercedes, Brittany: Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh)
New Directions Girls:
I hear Jerusalem bells are ringing. Roman Calvary choirs are singing.
Be my mirror, my sword and shield.
My missionaries in a foreign field.
For some reason I can't explain I know Saint Peter won't call my name.
Talkin' bout my generation.
The girls sang as they posed as the guys cheered.
"Wow...ladies I'm impressed," Will said as the girls grinned "Where did that mashup idea come from?"
"We just talked through songs and this is what worked," Santana shrugged.
"Excellent. Great job ladies. Guys, you've got a lot to live up to after that," Will chuckled as the boys couldn't help but feel nervous. Their group was so disjointed at this point, could they actually have a shot to win the Battle of the Bands?
Cut to the Hallway where Kurt is still smiling down at his text from Blaine when once again Karofsky shoved him. Kurt decided right then and there that he was going to confront him. Like Blaine said, he needed to fight back "Hey!" Kurt screamed as he followed Karofsky into the locker room "I am talking to you!"
"Girls locker room's next door," Karofsky smirked as he continued to go through his locker.
"What is your problem?" Kurt shot back.
"Excuse me?" Karofsky said as he faced Kurt.
"What are you so scared of?" Kurt asked.
"Besides you sneaking in here to peek at my junk?" Karofsky smirked.
"Oh yeah, every straight guy's nightmare, that all us gays are secretly out to molest and convert you. Well guess what, Hammerhawk? You're not my type," Kurt shot back.
"That right?" Karofsky said amused.
"Yeah. I don't like chubby boys who sweat too much and are gonna be bald by the time they're thirty," Kurt shot back as Karofsky slammed his locker shut.
"Do not push me, Hummel," Karofsky huffed.
"You gonna hit me? Do it." Kurt said in his most courageous voice.
"Don't push me!" Karofsky huffed again as he got close to Kurt.
"Hit me, 'cause it's not gonna change who I am," Kurt said confidently "You can't punch the gay out of me anymore than I can push the ignoramus out of you."
"Get out of my face!" Karofsky huffed.
"You are nothing but a scared little boy who can't handle how extraordinarily ordinary you are!" Kurt exclaimed as Karofsky got closer and what Kurt thought was going to be a punch turned into the one thing he didn't expect from Karofsky, his first kiss.
Kurt was stunned as Karofsky pulled away, he was frozen. Karofsky picked on him because he liked him? It made no sense to Kurt. Why would he want to make Kurt's life miserable if they were the same? Karofsky punched his locker as he stormed off, leaving Kurt still frozen and unsure of what had just happened.
Sam then entered the locker room. "You okay, dude?" Sam asked, worried about the look on Kurt's face.
"I'm fine," Kurt said quickly, trying to pull himself together.
"You don't look fine. You look like you've just seen a ghost," Sam said.
"It's nothing," Kurt said, brushing it off as he grabbed his things "I've got to go."
"Why?" Sam asked, confused.
"My dad's expecting me home," Kurt lied as he rushed out of the locker room leaving Sam dumbfounded, what exactly had happened to Kurt and why was he so jumpy?
Cut to the choir room where Quinn, Tina, and Mercedes are humming along to their mashup that they had just done, seeming to be having a good time as Kurt stood outside the choir room, hesitating whether or not he should join the girls. He had always felt more comfortable with them. He knew Mercedes would have his back no matter what but he didn't know how to tell her or any of the girls what happened without revealing what Karofsky did.
"Kurt...is everything okay?" Tina asked kindly as Kurt shook his head almost ready to break down in tears. Tina took his hand and brought him into the choir room where Mercedes and Quinn were also.
"Kurt...what happened?" Quinn asked seeing the hurt in his eyes. She knew it all too well from what she went through last year. Something was seriously going on with Kurt.
"I-I can't say..." Kurt said emotionally.
"Kurt, you can talk to us. We're not going to tell anyone," Mercedes said.
"Yeah...you guys kept my secret from Finn. I'll always be grateful for that," Quinn said honestly.
Kurt sighed "With everything that's gone on with Karofsky I've considered transferring," Kurt admitted as Tina, Quinn, and Mercedes looked shocked.
"Transferring?" Tina asked dumbfounded.
"To Dalton Academy...I met this guy there who's...like me," Kurt said seriously.
"Kurt that's amazing," Mercedes grinned a bit for him as Kurt sighed.
"It is but I don't want to betray the Glee Club," Kurt admitted.
"You wouldn't be betraying the club," Mercedes said seriously as Quinn nodded.
"I completely agree. You have to do what's best for you. I mean you guys have all been so supportive of me, even though I was the reason we only had 11 members…I just didn't feel safe and you should be somewhere where you feel safe too," Quinn said seriously.
"Just know we're here for you Kurt, whatever you need," Tina offered.
"Exactly. I know this week has been hard on you Kurt, with Karofsky going off the deep end and boys vs. girls but just because you aren't working with us, doesn't mean we don't have your back," Mercedes said as Quinn nodded.
"Thank you," Kurt sighed relieved. Though this wasn't the only secret Kurt had hidden it was the only secret he could tell his friends. Mercedes, Tina, and Quinn all hugged Kurt who felt slightly guilty about not fully coming clean.
Cut to the Fabray's that afternoon as Quinn is stroking Sam's hair as he's laying down across her lap. "Is everything okay? You've been awfully quiet since I picked up from football practice," Quinn asked, concerned about her boyfriend. Sam quickly sat up and sighed.
"You know how you got that look on your face when Puck was back at school," Sam said as Quinn nodded, hesitantly, unsure about what this was about.
"Well I walked into the locker room and Kurt had kind of that same look like he was afraid of someone," Sam said as Quinn's eyes grew wide. She knew the look on Kurt's face seemed off when he came to talk to the girls that afternoon but she didn't think it was that bad.
"Well I know Karofsky has been giving him a hard time, you don't think he hurt Kurt did you?" Quinn asked nervously as Sam bit his lip.
"I don't know…Karofsky did seem kind of off during practice," Sam admitted as Quinn looked worried. "Hey, whatever it is, we'll make sure he's okay," Sam said, trying to reassure his girlfriend who still seemed uneasy about the situation.
"I believe you, maybe you should talk to the guys. If Kurt feels welcome in the group, maybe he'll think less about what's going on," Quinn said seriously as Sam nodded, kissing her cheek
"That's a great idea babe," he grinned as she giggled as he continued to kiss her all over, tickling her.
Cut to the Spanish classroom where the guys are meeting for their practice but even after Sam's persuasive talks, Kurt is still noticeably absent. Sam couldn't help but worry that whatever had happened that afternoon had convinced Kurt not to show up. "So where the hell is he? You said you convinced him to come," Puck shot at Sam who glared back at him.
"I did..but…" Sam sighed "Something happened today and I wonder if it scared him off."
"What?" Finn asked, clearly worried about his step-brother as Sam took a deep breath.
"I don't know exactly. I just have never seen Kurt look so...scared before," Sam said.
"It's got to be Karofsky," Finn muttered.
"That guy's been giving Kurt a hard time but not in the fun joking kind of way," Puck agreed.
"It wouldn't surprise me. Tina saw him shove Kurt before," Mike added.
"But what could he have possibly done to make Kurt that afraid?" Finn asked worriedly.
"Beats me," Puck shrugged
"All I know is if Karofsky's the reason behind Kurt's terror we need to be as supportive as we can of him. He already feels like he's on the outside looking in with us," Sam said as Finn, Mike, and Artie nodded.
"So I made a couple of jokes. Big whoop. Kurt knows I have his back," Puck said.
"No. He doesn't," Sam objected "If you maybe put more effort into talking to him maybe you'd know that."
Puck looked pissed off "What the hell is that supposed to mean?" He demanded.
"It means you need to be a better teammate to Kurt. I know you just got back but you've known him longer than I have. You guys worked together before, what's changed this time?" Sam asked.
Puck shrugged "Fine. You'll get your way, star quarterback, anything else I can do for you?" Puck said sarcastically.
Sam narrowed his eyes "You could stay away from my girl."
"Your girl?" Puck asked.
"Yeah. Quinn," Sam said.
"Quinn's not your property. She can do what she wants," Puck smirked.
"And what she wants clearly isn't you, given everything you've put her through," Sam shot back at Puck, annoyed.
"Oh she told you about her story. How cute," Puck said mockingly as Sam saw red.
"She went through a lot last year and I'm sure without you support no less," Sam said, getting in Puck's face.
"Oh you want to go there," Puck said as he got in Sam's face.
"Guys!" Finn exclaimed, getting between them "Seriously? We're supposed to be a team. Puck, if Sam says to back off of Quinn then back off," Finn told Puck seriously.
"Fine. She's kind of a prude anyway, you can have her," Puck said as Sam shook his head as the guys went back to working on their assignment, once again without Kurt.
The next day at rehearsal Will walked in. "Alright, so the ladies started us off for the battle of the bands. Guys, are you ready to perform?" Will asked.
"No," Sam answered honestly.
"Mr. Schue, we haven't had a full rehearsal with all of our members," Mike offered.
"Funny now you consider me a member of the team," Kurt muttered under his breath.
"Kurt, we've always considered you part of the team," Artie objected as Finn nodded.
"Yeah dude our performances wouldn't be the same without you," Finn said.
"Maybe so but I thought you all made it very clear that my advice wasn't needed," Kurt said coolly.
"So we didn't want to wear your feather boas, big whoop. We're dudes," Puck defended.
"But there was no need to make fun of him for it dude. We expect better than that from us in Glee Club," Finn said as the other guys murmured in agreement before Will spoke, he was interrupted by Principal Figgins.
"William! I need to see you and Noah Puckerman in my office please," Figgins said as Will gave Puck a look as they left for Principal Figgins office.
Cut to Figgins' office where Puck has been informed that he might not be able to stay at McKinley because of the impending trial with Quinn as well as a possible restraining order that Judy had filed that day to keep Puck away from her daughter. "This is complete garbage! I haven't even gone anywhere near her. It's boys vs. girls week in Glee. We've been separated," Puck said, annoyed glaring at Judy, Quinn's mom who was sitting there.
"I don't care if it continues to be this boys vs. girls nonsense. The point is I don't want you within 300 feet of my daughter after what you did to her," Judy shot back at Puck annoyed.
"Mrs. Fabray, I think we are all sensitive to what your daughter claims to have gone through but as I told you before my hands are tied until you get an outcome on the trial or the restraining order," Figgins said.
"Claims to have happened? You cannot be serious!" Judy scoffed, getting upset.
"Mrs. Fabray, I think what Principal Figgins is trying to say is until something legal happens, we can't force Puck out of the school," Will tried to offer to be supportive.
"What about when that delinquent is found guilty?" Judy asked, hands on hips.
"Mrs. Fabray as I told you before we cannot force a student out of the school. I think you should withdraw the restraining order for that reason alone," Figgins said as Judy scoffed, annoyed.
"And I think I need to do whatever I can to protect my daughter from this monster you're trying to keep in the school. If you don't give me what I want, maybe I'll have to find a different school that will," Judy said, grabbing her things as she stormed out of Figgins office.
The possibility of Quinn being taken out of McKinley shocked Figgins, Will, and Puck. None of them had thought that it would go this far. Puck, especially, didn't want to lose out on his chance to get her back, sure she was dating the injured quarterback, but he felt in time she'd see the charges against him were silly and he was the one she was meant to be with.
"Can we head back to class?" Will asked Figgins who nodded as Will ushered Puck out of the principal's office and back into the choir room where Will couldn't help but be unsure of the New Directions' fate with this new wrinkle in their plan.
Cut to the courtyard that afternoon where Blaine had met Kurt to help him. "Thanks again for coming," Kurt said.
"Don't worry about it, just let me do the talking," Blaine assured Kurt as Karofsky began to walk by.
"There he is," Kurt said nervously.
"I got your back," Blaine assured Kurt once again as he stopped Karofsky "Excuse me."
"Hey, ladyboys," Karofsky smirked, "This your boyfriend, Kurt?"
"Kurt and I would like to talk to you about something." Blaine said in a matter of fact manner.
"I gotta go to class," Karofsky said, brushing him off as he tried to move past them
"Kurt told me what you did," Blaine said as Karofsky turned around.
"Oh, yeah? What's that?" Karofsky smirked.
"You kissed me," Kurt said as Karofsky's face fell.
"I don't know what you're talking about," Karofsky muttered.
"It seems like you might be a little confused. And that's totally normal. This is a very hard thing to come to terms with, and you should just know that you're not alone," Blaine said trying to help Karofsky as he then turned around, shoving Blaine up against the wall.
"Do not mess with me!" Karofsky gritted as Kurt got between them.
"You have to stop this!" Kurt exclaimed as Karofsky looked at him and Blaine then decided to leave.
"Well, he's not coming out any time soon," Blaine said sarcastically hoping to get a laugh from Kurt who just looked devastated "What's going on? Why are you so upset?"
"Because until yesterday, I had never been kissed," Kurt sighed as Blaine looked at him sympathetically "Or at least, one that counted."
"Come on. I'll buy you lunch," Blaine offered as he and Kurt headed out to lunch.
Cut to Will's office where he has invited Quinn for a talk. Quinn knocked on the door. "You wanted to see me Mr. Schue?" she asked, nervously.
"Yes Quinn, take a seat," Will said as Quinn nodded, sitting down hesitantly, unsure of why she was asked to Mr. Schue's office. Will took a deep breath "I know you've been through a lot. The last year alone has probably been incredibly hard on you."
"You have no idea," Quinn said honestly sighing, having a feeling she knew where this was going.
"With Puck being back, I've seen what a difference it's made in how you're feeling in this school," Will said as Quinn nodded, biting her lip, unsure if he was upset with her over the trial "Your health and wellbeing should always come first Quinn."
Quinn sighed relieved, realizing he wasn't mad at her at all.
"I know, as the director of the New Directions, you probably expected me to be worried about us having 12 members and being able to compete, while that is true, I want all 12 members of the club to feel like this is a safe space for them, and that includes you, Quinn. If you still want to be a part of the team," Will said seriously as Quinn nodded.
"I do. Of course I want to be a part of the team. And I've been trying to keep my personal feelings aside with Puck, it isn't always easy being face to face with him after what happened, but I'm trying to get through it. I spent an entire semester lying about the paternity of my child, and the second semester, I spent lying to myself about what happened. At the end of the day, I'm healing from what happened to me. The only thing I really want is for him to tell the truth, which I doubt he'll ever do. And as much that hurts, it's what I'm expecting from this trial," Quinn admitted, sighing as Will shook his head, hating what he was hearing from Quinn.
"I understand," Will said before sighing "The reason we were called to Figgins' office before was because of your mom."
"What about my mom?" Quinn said, raising an eyebrow, surprised her mom was up at the school again.
"She filed a restraining order against him on your behalf Quinn, and she's demanding that he's not within 300 feet of you," Will said as Quinn looked shocked.
"I didn't ask her to do that," Quinn said surprised.
"I didn't know if you did, but it is in her rights to file it for you, but it's providing us with an issue of letting Puck stay at the school," Will said as Quinn sighed, unsure of what she wanted. All she knew was she had always felt safe in the Glee Club, even with Puck there, she knew her true friends believed her and would make sure she was okay, along with her director but outside of school, that was what she was afraid of.
"I don't want him out of the school or even the Glee Club…I just want to make sure he could never do what he did to me again," Quinn said seriously.
"I understand," Will said seriously.
"Thanks for talking with me about it Mr. Schue. I'll try to talk to my mom and see what we can do," Quinn said honestly as Will nodded, watching Quinn leave his office, hoping she truly felt safe in the choir room.
Cut to the hallway where Puck is packing up at his locker. "I didn't see you in Geometry today," Artie frowned as he approached Puck at his locker.
"Jackpot! No you didn't," Puck said slamming his locker shut "I'm getting out of here."
Artie looked confused as he wheeled after Puck
"I'm skipping town, genius. Quinn's mom is coming after me, hard and if I'm not 300 feet away from Quinn, I'd be shipped back to juvie," Puck said, upset.
"Wait…I thought you loved it there?" Artie said, confused.
"Yeah? I lied," Puck said as Artie looked shocked "It's fricking terrifying, dude. On the first day, three gang members jumped me and before the security guards pulled them off, they'd already tore out my nipple ring. I thought I was a badass. There's some hard dudes in there. Guys with no families. Guys who look at you like you're some kind of dog they can't wait to kick the crap out of. And they kept taking my waffles."
"So you be my community service," Artie said.
"What?" Puck asked, shocked.
"I owe you. You got me a date with Brittany. And you made me feel cool, which is not the easiest thing to do. I really like hanging out with you, so let me tutor you in Geometry while we find a way to keep you at this school," Artie said as Puck looked surprised "Geometry's easy, yo! There's no excuse for a guy as smart as you not to get at least a B."
"I was kind of a jerk to you at Breadstix," Puck admitted.
"Whatever. Just pay me back for the pasta," Artie said.
"Running out without paying was a stupid idea. If I got caught I'd be screwed," Puck admitted.
"You need to start hanging around with someone who's a good influence on you, Puck," Artie said as Puck really considered what he had to say "Gimme six weeks. If you don't ace your Geometry midterm, I swear I'll buy you all the waffles you can eat."
"That's dope, dude. You got a deal," Puck smiled as he and Artie did their handshake.
Cut to Kurt by his locker looking at the photo of Blaine he has now proudly displayed in his locker with the word 'Courage' below it made of different letters from magazines. Karofsky then shoved Kurt into his locker, knocking him on the floor as he just walked away. Kurt sat on the floor holding back tears as Karofsky smirked and walked off. Sam walked over and helped Kurt up.
"You okay?" Sam asked.
"I'll live," Kurt said solemnly.
"Look, the guys and I wanted to apologize to you with our performance. Come to the choir room, we have something special planned," Sam smiled as Kurt nodded while walking with Sam to the choir room where the guys all walked out wearing the blue suits with a black bow tie that Kurt had chosen for them.
"I don't understand..." Kurt said, shocked.
"We wanted to apologize to you," Finn said.
"Yeah we weren't acting like a team and made you feel unwelcome," Artie added.
"After this week I've learned that I can be a bit of a jerk since getting out of juvie. You were just trying to help us give the best performance that we could have and I'm sorry for what I said to you, can you forgive me?" Puck asked as Kurt nodded slowly.
"We have your jacket, if you, you know, want to perform with us still," Sam smiled.
"I'd be honored," Kurt smiled, touched by the guys' gesture as they began to sing their mashup of 'Free Your Mind' and 'Stop! In the Name of Love'.
As the guys performed, Kurt was very into the performance, seeming to beam even more with pride as he performed.
Finn and Puck with New Directions Boys:
Here we go!
Finn with New Directions Boys:
Stop! In the name of love, before you break my heart (Puck: Free your mind)
Stop! In the name of love, before you break my heart
Think it over
Artie (with New Directions Boys):
I wear tight clothing, high heeled shoes
It doesn't mean that I'm a prostitute (no, no)
Puck (with New Directions Boys):
I like rap music, wear hip hop clothes
That doesn't mean that I'm out sellin' dope (no no, no)
Finn with New Directions Boys:
Before you can read me you gotta
Learn how to see me, I said
Stop! In the name of love, before you break my heart (New Directions Boys: Free your mind)
Stop! In the name of love, before you break my heart
Think it over
Puck with New Direction Boys:
Free your mind and the rest will follow (Finn: think it over)
Be color blind, don't be so shallow
Sam:
I've known of your, your secluded nights
I've even seen her maybe once or twice
But is her sweet expression
Worth more than my love and affection?
As Sam took his verse he walked over to Quinn, holding her hand in his meaning every word he sang to her which seemed to make her heart flutter.
Finn with New Directions Boys:
Before you can read me you gotta
Learn how to see me, I said
Stop! In the name of love, before you break my heart (Artie: And stop! And stop!)
Stop! In the name of love, before you break my heart (Artie: Before you break my heart and stop!)
Think it over
Puck with New Directions Boys:
Free your mind and the rest will follow
Be color blind, don't be so shallow
(New Directions Boys: Think it over) Free your mind and the rest will follow (Artie: Oohh, oh-oh-oh)
Be color blind, don't be so shallow (Artie: Don't break my, don't break my heart)
Finn with New Directions Boys:
Stop!
Stop!
Artie:
In the name of love
New Directions Boys:
Free your mind
Stop!
Free your mind
Stop! (Artie: Oh free your mind)
The boys then began to approach the girls, most of them approaching their love interests; Finn with Rachel, Sam with Quinn, Artie with Brittany, and Mike with Tina. Puck played his part approaching his 'girlfriend' Santana trying to play it off like he was still into her, while Kurt approached his best friend, Mercedes playing things up with her, which made her laugh.
Finn with New Directions Boys:
Before you can read me you gotta
Learn how to see me, I said
New Directions Boys:
(Finn: Hey) Stop! In the name of love, before you break my heart (Artie: Before you break my heart) (Puck: Free your mind)
Stop!
Finn with New Directions Boys:
In the name of love (Artie: In the name)
Before you break my heart (Artie: Of love love)
Puck with New Directions Boys:
Free your mind and the rest will follow (Finn: Stop! In the name of love) (Artie: Oh free your mind)
Be color blind, don't be so shallow (Finn: Before you break my heart) (Artie: You got to be color blind!)
Free your mind and the rest will follow (Finn: Stop! In the name of love) (Artie: Wo, oh oh!)
Be color blind, don't be so shallow (Finn: Before you break my heart) (Artie: Don't break my, don't break my heart)
Finn with New Directions Boys:
(New Directions Boys: Stop!) In the name of love, (Artie: You got to stop it, you got to stop)
Before you break my heart (Artie: Don't break my heart) (New Directions Boys: Free your mind)
Stop! In the name of love, (Artie: Stop! Stop!) before you break my heart
Think it over (Artie: Oh think it over)
Puck with New Directions Boys:
Free your mind
Puck and Finn with New Directions Boys:
And the rest will stop!
The girls and Will cheered for the guys. "Guys, I think you all learned a valuable lesson this week, how to work as a team," Will said, impressed by the guys' success.
"So who won the competition?" Mercedes asked.
"Well you both went out of your comfort zones with your performances which was what I was hoping to accomplish. You all came together for the mashups which was exactly what I was hoping for so we all won," Will said as everyone seemed satisfied with that answer. "Now, let's get back to preparing for Sectionals," Will said as everyone went to their seats "From the top."