*I really hope people are still reading my story! The number of reviews with each chapter has started dwindling but for those of you that are still reading, thank you! I am sorry I haven't posted in a while, work is kicking my butt. With that, I hope you enjoy the chapter!*

Santana was so mad at herself. The moment they laid in bed was when she should have told Brett that she loved him. Santana had ample time to do it. They were in bed all night and morning wrapped up together. It would have been perfect but she chickened out. Then when she was getting the guts to tell him, stupid Puck came home; hungover. Brett didn't want Puck to walk in on them so he made them get dressed, ultimately ruining the moment.

These last few weeks have been so busy too. Santana hasn't really seen Brett because the gym reopened and her case got put on hold, which means her boss assigned her to another case. Which is going to trial after New Years', so she has been rushing to prep and get everything done so Santana can actually enjoy Christmas. She and Quinn have also been missing each other even though they live in the same apartment.

Santana finally was done for the day and needed to get home to pack. They are leaving for Lima tomorrow. The glee club was all getting together to support the current glee club at regionals. As Santana was rushing home, she was excited to see Brett. Puck said that they were just going to sleep at the girl's apartment since they were leaving early the next morning. All she wanted to do was get naked and jump into bed with him but San still needed to pack.

Once she came into the apartment, Santana noticed that there were only 2 suitcases by the front door. Quinn and Puck were sitting in the living room and it seemed like an elephant was also in the room. "Where's Brett?" Santana asked, pulling off her peacoat. "Puck you want to tell her?" Quinn said in a very sassy tone. Santana watched as Puck gulped and began to talk. "Well I may have lied," he said. "Lied about what?" San asked. "Brett isn't coming to Lima," Puck said, kinda scared of Santana's reaction.

"What the hell do you mean?" Santana asked. "I was hoping that I could convince him to go by the time the trip came but I wasn't able to. He has no desire to go back to Lima." Puck explained. "Was he going to tell me?" she asked. "Well, that's another thing. I told him that you knew he wasn't going" Puck said. Quinn rolled her eyes at her boyfriend's stupidity. "So you basically told us two separate things? What the hell were you trying to do?" Santana asked Puck. "I knew Brett had reservations about going back to Lima. I also knew how much you wanted him to go so I thought that I could convince him and make sure you both had a good Christmas" Puck explained.

Santana could tell that Puck was just trying to make everything nice. He didn't mean to piss her off. Santana groaned and grabbed her peacoat. "Santana where are you going?" Quinn asked. "I am going to talk to Brett since I know he will be more receptive if I talk to him in person." She explained. "I am really sorry San," Puck said. Santana knew that he really meant it. "It's okay Puck, I'll be back," Santana said, making sure she smiled at Puck so he knew she was not mad.

The walk to Brett's apartment was quick. She knocked on his door eagerly. Mostly because she wanted to see him but also because Santana really wanted to convince him to come. Brett opened the door quickly and a smile engulfed his face when he saw his girlfriend. "Tana!" Brett yelled and picked her up. Santana couldn't help but giggle at her boyfriend's corniness.

He kept her in his arms and brought her into his apartment. Brett placed her down on the dining table, "Did you come over for a proper goodbye" He asked, smirking. Brett let his eyes linger down her body, taking in every curve and ounce of skin that she was showing. Santana just rolled her eyes, "Actually I came over to talk to you" she replied. Brett looked scared, "That's never good" he mumbled.

"So Puck was trying to convince you to come on this trip right?" San asked. Brett nodded. "Well, he told me that you were coming but told you that I was okay with you not coming." She explained. At that moment, Brett was pissed with Puck. Why did he lie to the two of them? "So you were under the impression that I was coming to Lima all along?" Brett asked. Santana nodded. Brett didn't know what to say. "Why aren't you coming to Lima?" she asked. Brett had spent the last couple of weeks fighting Puck off. It had started to become annoying the number of times Brett told Puck to drop it.

"Tana, I told myself I was never going to go back to Lima after everything that happened," Brett explained. "I understand that but you already accomplished the hardest thing which was facing Russell" Santana reminded him. In her mind, he won the battle versus Russell which means Lima is a piece of cake. "That isn't true Santana," Brett said. He stepped out from between her legs and went to the couch. Santana hit a nerve and she knew it.

"Brett" she sighed, jumping off the table and following him. Brett didn't want to push her away. He has been avoiding this long enough. "Come here baby," He said. Santana walked over to him. She sat on the couch, but Brett needed to have her closer. He pulled her legs over his. "Why don't you want to go to Lima, and please don't lie to me" she begged. "My father, Brian lives close to Lima. I know that if I go back then I might see him" Brett explained. "You never told me about your dad," Santana whispered, intertwining their hands.

"Brian was never meant to have children. He was a drug addict who was kicked out of his own house when he was 18. The only thing I will say is Brian never laid a hand on me." Brett explained. Santana stayed quiet and just kept looking at Brett. Making sure she rubbed his hand with her thumb. "I guess a part of me didn't want to tell you the whole truth because I didn't want you to see how much of a fuck up I am," he added. "You know that I am not going to think you are a fuck up," she said, laying her head against the couch. Brett knew Santana cared so much but his family has always been his Achilles heel.

"When was the last time you saw Brian?" she asked. "When I was 17, I tricked him into signing a document that let me go into the military early. Then a few weeks went by and it was time to leave for basic training. I watched him shoot up some heroin and then pass out on the couch. I left after that and never saw him again." Brett explained. Just when Santana thought Brett's life couldn't be any worse, he told her this. "He wasn't a bad guy, he just had a lot of demons. I tried so hard to get him clean but I couldn't. I think a part of me left because I didn't want to see him die" Brett admitted.

Santana reached her arms around his neck, scratching the back of his head lightly. "You are such a good guy, please don't put all this pressure onto yourself. You tried your hardest and they might not know it but I do" Santana said. "Thank you, Tana," he whispered. "I completely understand why you wouldn't want to go to Lima but what are you going to do here?" she asked. "Probably just hang out and catch up on some television shows," Brett said nonchalantly. "Brett, it's Christmas," San pointed out. "So? I usually spend it in war" he pointed out.

"Do you have any of my clothes here?" Santana asked. Brett was kinda confused, "Most likely why," He asked. "I am staying here," she said, inviting herself. "Of course you can stay but aren't you guys leaving early tomorrow?" Brett asked. "I am not going," San exclaimed. "Yes, you are. Quinn told me how much you love going back even though you will not admit it" He said. "I am not leaving you alone on Christmas. I respect that you do not want to go to Lima and that is fine but that means I am staying here" Santana said. "Santana" Brett sighed. "Don't Santana me, this is my choice. I want to spend Christmas with you. It is our first Christmas together and I will not miss out on that." Santana exclaimed.

"I'll go to Lima if you want," Brett said, giving in. "That is not what I want. All I want Brett is to be with you. Whether that is in Lima or here, I don't care" Santana exclaimed. She got up and placed her coat on the chair. "I am going to steal a shirt to sleep in," San said. Brett quickly got up and grabbed her waist, spinning her around. "I want to spend Christmas with you. So let's go to Lima." Brett said. "You don't want to go," San reminded him. "You have supported me through so much. Being there during the dinner and my doctor's appointments. I can do this for you" Brett said. Santana smiled wide, "Really?" she asked, hoping he was serious. "Yes, I just need to pack," Brett said. He couldn't help but smile because Santana was so happy.

After Brett packed, the couple made their way back to Santana's apartment. Once they got there, Santana and Quinn retreated into San's room to help her pack. "Hey, man. I am really sorry about that whole thing. I wasn't trying to pit you two against each other" Puck said in a very nervous way. Brett sat on the couch, "it's okay. Santana and I figured it out. I know you were just trying to look out for the both of us" he said. At first, he was mad but there is no use in fighting with Puck, especially since it all worked out. Once Santana was packed, they decided to all just go to bed since they needed to be up early.

Brett pulled off his shirt, leaving him in just boxers then crawled into San's bed. When Santana came into the room she couldn't help but smile at Brett. He was curled up in the middle of her bed, looking at her. Santana pulled her clothes off, standing in just her panties, looking for her t-shirt. "You should just stay like that," Brett suggested. Santana groaned, "I am getting my period so I am not in the mood," she said, grabbing a sleep shirt. "We don't need to have sex for you to sleep like that" Brett laughed. She paid a lot of money for her breasts so she might as well show them off.

Santana threw her shirt to the ground and crawled into bed. She pressed her breasts to his chest and looked up at Brett. He wrapped his arms around her and rubbed the bottom of her back. "I hate being on my period. I am not even on it yet and already dreading it" she groaned. "Why? It doesn't sound so bad" Brett asked. Santana gave him a look, "you're kidding right" she said. "Of course I am, I learned my lesson last time" he replied laughing. "What do I always tell you?" San asked. "No uterus, no opinion" Brett repeated back. "Exactly, I taught you well" she smirked.

"How has living with Puck been?" San asked. "It's been fun but pretty lonely at night," Brett admitted. "Puck doesn't cuddle with you?" she asked laughing. "He does cuddle with me sometimes," Brett said, playing along. "Better than me?" San asked, smirking. "No but don't tell him," He said. San rolled her eyes, "oh I won't". She leaned up and kissed him. "We need to sleep," Santana said once she pulled back. "Yeah we do, I am so tired," Brett admitted, yawning.

Santana shifted her body off of Brett. She threw her arm over his waist and placed her head on his chest. Brett held her close and just looked down at her. He could tell that she was slowly falling asleep. Brett just thought about how lucky he was to have her. He would go through every hardship over again if it meant that Brett could come home and hold Santana. After a while he watched her mouth fall open and start snoring. Which is one of Brett's favorite sounds….other than her moan.

Brett tried to close his eyes and fall asleep but he couldn't. Ever since he moved in with Puck, for some reason his nightmares were even worse. Luckily Puck is either a deep sleeper or Brett just hasn't been screaming. But right now Brett is worried that he is going to have another nightmare and wake Santana. So he just sat there, holding her close and listening to her little snores. Brett watched the time pass and the sun come up. When Santana's alarm went off, he looked down at his girlfriend. She frowned and pushed her face into his chest. Santana was not a morning person. "Good Morning baby" Brett whispered and kissed her head. She groaned and kissed his chest, that was her saying good morning.

The foursome got ready and made their way to the airport. The flight wasn't long and they were in Ohio in no time. "So where are we staying?" Brett asked once they were in the rental car. "Rachel's dads are away on a cruise so we are all staying there," San explained. "Who is we?" Brett asked. "Literally everyone from Thanksgiving" Quinn exclaimed. "This is going to be a good time," Puck said as they pulled up to the big house. It was decorated in a combination of Christmas decorations and Hanukkah decor. Before they even made it to the front door, Rachel swung it open wide. "Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah!" She said. Rachel quickly invited them all in since it was so cold and snowy out.

"So Finn and I are in my room. Tina and Mike are in my dad's room. Mercedes and Kurt are in the room with 2 full beds. Then you guys will be in the basement since there are 2 rooms with full-size beds down there" Rachel explained. They all scattered and unpacked while waiting for everyone to get there. Once the whole gang was there they decided to have a low-key dinner at Breadsticks where Brett watched Santana eat more breadsticks than he thought her stomach could hold. Rachel had told the group that they were going ice skating the next day. Since everyone was tired from traveling and they knew Rachel had planned an entire itinerary, the group decided to just call it an early night.

Everyone made their way to their room. Brett stood in his room looking around. There was no source of light for him to sleep. Part of him started to panic, what was he going to do? When Santana walked in, already in her pajamas she saw the look on his face. "What's wrong B?" San asked. "There is no light," he mumbled. Santana knew exactly what he meant. "We can just keep the main light on," Santana suggested. Brett quickly shook her head, "It is too bright, you won't be able to sleep" he said. "I'll manage," San said. "No, I think I can do this," Brett said to her but mostly trying to convince himself. Brett got into bed, "Shut off the lights, Tana" he asked. "Okay, but if you change your mind, we can turn it back on" Santana exclaimed before turning it off.

She climbed into bed and cuddled up to Brett. "Are you okay?" she whispered. Internally he was panicking but he didn't want to show it, "yes" Brett replied holding her. Santana fell asleep pretty quickly which isn't shocking because she sleeps so much better with Brett. He stared off into the darkness. I guess the lack of sleep over the last few weeks caught up with him because Brett slowly nodded off.

Brett opened his eyes. The pain of being shot made him pass out. He was alone in the room and wondered how long he was out for. There was a puddle of blood on the floor, the only sound was a dripping sound. Which reminded him of a leaking faucet but it was blood dripping from the bullet hole and landing in the puddle below. Brett felt a little lightheaded which made him wonder how much blood he had lost.

This must be it, he thought. He was going to bleed out in the basement of some safe house. Nobody was ever going to find him. Brett thought about the people who loved him. The list was pretty short. He knew that Aaron was definitely going to miss him. Also, Carrie who was like a sister to him. Brett imagined his funeral. Carrie and Aaron would be the ones to set it up. He hoped that Quinn would go even though he hasn't seen her in a while. Brett makes sure to write and call her as much as he can.

Quinn, his little sister that he failed to protect. Brett hoped that Quinn had someone to be there for her. Quinn talked about her best friend constantly, so hopefully, she will be there for his little sister when he dies. Just as Brett felt himself slipping back unconscious the door to the room flew open.

"HOW THE HELL DID YOU MANAGE TO COMMUNICATE TO THE OUTSIDE" Aazar screamed and grabbed his face, forcing Brett to look at him. His yelling didn't scare Brett but it did wake him up a bit. "I have no idea what you are talking about," Brett mumbled. Aazar laughed and pulled a chair in front of Brett. He took a seat and continued to look at Brett. "I don't like being lied to," Aazar said. "I am not lying," Brett replied. Aazar did not like that answer. He picked up his hand and placed it on Brett's bad shoulder, making him flinch. "I am going to ask you one more time, How did you get in contact with your platoon?" Aazar asked again.

"I have had zero contact with them since you took me," Brett said. Aazar did not like that answer but instead of answering, he pressed his thumb into Brett's wound. Brett screamed out in pain.

Sanatan jumped, being woken up abruptly out of her sleep. The room was pitch black but she could hear Brett's heavy breathing. San grabbed her phone and turned on the flashlight. Brett was sitting up in bed. He had tears streaming down his face and his eyes were clamped shut. "Brett, it is just a nightmare. Wake up baby" She whispered, caressing his face and wiping his tears.

"If you didn't get in contact with them. How are they closing in on this safe house?" Aazar asked. "I have no idea but we were tracking you for months. They must have found something that linked you to here. They are going to look for me" Brett explained. "Tell me how to get them off my trail and I won't kill you right now" Aazar commanded. Brett needed to do something to tell the group that he was alive without disrupting national security. There is no way he was going to give up those codes. "Send an email to Jabbar's private email," Brett said. Aazar looked confused, "why?" he asked. "We figured out your emails and have been tracking them for a while. If you want my guys to retreat back, send 'Eagle has awoken, meet at the underground'" Brett said. "What does that mean?" Aazar asked.

"My team will read that as you are back and you want to meet Jabbar at a safe house. The safe house where you took me from. I know that you are not stupid enough to stay there so this will send them back, by you some time." Brett lied. Aazar nodded, "you just bought yourself some time. Next time I come in here, you better be ready to give up those codes'' He said. Brett hoped that Aazar was going to send that exact message. This was going to be how Brett got in contact with his team. Eagle refers to him. That's Brett's code name and hopefully, his team will understand that. Realizing that he is alive and underground.

Aazar walked over to the door and placed his hand on the string that controlled the light. "Please don't. I gave you what you want, leave the light on" Brett begged. Aazar smiled, a smile that reminded Brett of the joker. "You didn't give me everything I wanted," Aazar reminded Brett. He pulled the light and slammed the door, plunging Brett back into the darkness. The only thing Brett could hear is his heavy breathing and the sound of his blood hitting the floor, one drop at a time. "Turn on the light"..."turn on the light"..." please" Brett cried over and over.

"Please" Brett pleaded. Santana hated hearing how sad and scared he sounded. "Baby, open your eyes" San pleaded, still rubbing his cheek.

Brett hated the dark. Was Aazar or Jabbar going to come out of nowhere? Shoot him again or torture him some more, Brett would never even see it coming. He began pulling against the ties around his arms. Brett was doing everything he could to get up.

"I need to get out," Brett yelled. Santana tried to pull him close but was pushed back by Brett. His strength hurled her back, making her tumble off the bed. Santana hit her head pretty hard against the wall. Brett jumped off the bed, "I need to find the light, please" he begged. "HELP ME" Brett screamed.

The door to the room opened wide. Puck and Quinn turned on the light. "SAN" Quinn yelled and ran to her side. "I need to get out," Brett mumbled, breathing heavily and moving around the room. "Brett, what's wrong?" Puck asked. "He is asleep," San said, "he is having a nightmare, you need to get him to wake up" she added. "You have a pretty big bump on your head," Quinn pointed out. Santana flinched when Quinn ran her fingers across it. "I am fine," she said.

Puck reached out and grabbed Brett but he pushed him away hard. Puck knew he needed more strength to get Brett under control. Puck grabbed Brett's arms and shook him, "Brett wake up!" Puck yelled. It was like life came back into Brett's eyes. "Puck…... what …..." Brett started to ask, looking around the room. He saw Santana on the ground, she had tears in her eyes even though she was trying not to cry. Quinn was sitting next to Santana, holding her. Quinn looked so scared, even Puck looked scared. "What happened?" Brett asked. "You were having a nightmare," Puck replied. This is the first time Brett has ever slept walked while having a nightmare. "You pushed Santana and made her hit her head," Quinn added. "Quinn" Santana said, she didn't want Brett to know.

Brett's mouth dropped. "Tana" he whispered. Santana got up, "I am fine Brett, everything is okay," she said, trying to reassure him. "I can't, I need to go," Brett said, turning and leaving the room. Santana tried to follow him but Puck stopped her. "I think you need to let him cool off," he said. "I know Brett. He is going to punish himself over what just happened. Brett needs to know that everything is okay" she explained. "Santana, he hurt you," Quinn pointed out. "I know but he didn't mean to, he was having a nightmare," Santana said. "I know he would never mean it but it just shows that he needs help," Quinn pointed out. " You can't handle this on your own Santana'' Puck said. "I know, I need to convince him to go to therapy or something," Santana said. The group was silent until Santana's phone started ringing. She hoped it was Brett as she answered it.

Santana- Hello?

Carrie- Santana, are you okay?

Santana- Carrie? Why are you calling so late?

Carrie- Brett called Aaron. He was crying and saying he hurt you. What happened?

Santana- He was asleep. I was trying to wake him up and he pushed me away. I am fine. Is Brett still on the phone with Aaron?
Carrie- Yeah

Santana- tell Aaron to ask Brett where he went?

Carrie- Brett said he was in a park somewhere.

Santana- (Knows exactly where it is) tell him to stay there. I am on my way.

Carrie- I have been through this before. You need to be honest with Brett. Do not sugarcoat it. If you were scared and hurt, tell him. It is the only way he will realize that he needs help.

Santana- Okay thanks, I'll talk to you later. (hangs up)

Santana put on her jacket and grabbed Brett's. "Where are you going?" Quinn asked. "I am going to get Brett," she replied. "Do you want a ride?" Puck asked. "No, he isn't far," Santana pointed out. "Text us when you find him and when you get home," Quinn asked, she was worried about her brother. "I will Q," She said, kissing her lightly on the forehead.

Santana knew that Brett had to have made his way to the park that was down the street from Rachel's house. She could hear his cries before she even made it inside the fence.

Brett was sitting on the swing, with his face in his hands. "Brett" Santana said when she was close. Brett quickly looked up and their eyes connected. "Don't come near me, I am dangerous," he said. Santana shook her head, "No you aren't. You would never hurt me." she said. "I did hurt you Tana," Brett said, his voice cracking when he said her name. "You were asleep. Brett, you had no control over what happened." Santana pleaded with him. Santana stepped forward, closer to him. Brett abruptly got up and stepped back.

"I don't know what happened. I've never done that before, you have to believe me" He pleaded, tears still falling. "I do believe you baby," she said. "I thought your nightmares were getting better?" San asked. Brett scoffed, "They were better because I haven't been sleeping." he admitted. "I tried to stay awake but I was so tired and must have nodded off," Brett added. "I think I know why," Santana said. Brett looked at her, she made sure not to get too close but Santana did get a little closer.

"You haven't been sleeping. That combined with you being back in Lima and not having any light in our room, I think it stressed you out. It made your nightmare worse and made you act them out" Santana explained. Brett thought about it and Santana had to be right, like always. "I am just like Sebastian. I hurt you" Brett mumbled. He was still picturing his girlfriend. Seeing her on the ground wrapped up in Quinn's embrace, broke him. Hearing that he hurt her, made Brett want to leave and never return. He was a danger to her.

Santana heard him say that he is like Sebastian. She ran forward before he could pull away. Santana grabbed his face and forced him to look at her. "You are not like Sebastian. Do not say that again." She said in a stern voice. "But Tana," Brett said. "No buts. You are not like him and will never be like him. Now come here" Santana said. She wrapped her arms around his neck and forced him into a hug. Brett melted into her embrace, wrapping his arms around her waist. She could feel his tears run down her neck. "Everything is okay," San whispered.

"It is not going to be okay. What am I going to do Santana?" Brett asked. Santana pulled his tear-stained face from her neck. "You scared me today. You need help, Brett. I think you should talk to someone who specializes in things like this" Santana explained. Brett slowly nodded, "I think that is a good idea," he said. "I will help you set something up when we get home if you want. But for right now, put this coat on. You are freezing" Santana said. She helped him with his jacket. "Come on, let's go back. It is cold" Santana said, grabbing his hand.

The two walked back with their hands intertwined. "I need to know exactly what I did to you," Brett said, breaking the silence. "It's in the past, I am fine" She reminded him again. "Please Tana" he begged. Santana sighed, "you woke up screaming. I tried to wake you up but I think you were in a really deep sleep. You said you needed to get out and pushed me. I fell off the bed and hit my head against the wall. That was when Puck and Quinn came in." She explained. They made their way to the steps of Rachel's house. "I am so sorry" he whispered, turning to look at her. "I know you are and I forgive you," she said. "Where did you hit your head?" Brett asked. Santana pointed to the spot on the side of her head. Brett let his fingers glide over it. There was a bump that made Santana flinch when he touched it. Brett bent down and pressed a light kiss to her head. "It already feels better," San admitted, smiling at him.

Luckily it seemed like Brett didn't wake anyone else in the house up. They walked down the basement steps. Brett walked over to the couch. "What are you doing?" Santana asked. "I am going to sleep out here. You take the bed" he said stripping out of his coat and laying down. "No we are sleeping together," she said, also getting out of her coat. "Santana, I don't want to hurt you again," Brett said. "You will not hurt me," San said. "Please just sleep in there on the bed. I'll sleep out here so I can keep the lights over the stairs on." Brett pleaded but it was no use. Santana turned off the rest of the lights but kept the ones illuminating the stairs on. She also quickly sent a text to Quinn letting her know they were home safe.

Santana slid her way between Brett and the couch. "We are in this together so don't push me away because I can be even more clingy," San said, snuggling into his chest. Brett held her close, how did he get so lucky? His eyes were wide open when Santana looked up. "I know you are scared but you need sleep. I am right here" She whispered, rubbing his chest. Brett slowly closed his eyes. Santana thought he was asleep. The last thing he heard before falling asleep was her, "I love you" she whispered.

Quinn shook Santana awake. When she opened her eyes, Brett was still fast asleep. "Everyone's upstairs making breakfast," Quinn whispered. Santana crawled off of him, making sure not to wake him up. "Let him sleep a little longer" San whispered to which Quinn nodded. The girls walked upstairs but before they went into the kitchen Quinn stopped her. "Are you okay?" she asked. "I told you last night I am fine. My head doesn't even hurt" Santana groaned. "That is not what I meant. Are YOU okay?" Quinn asked again.

She sighed, "I am worried about him," Santana admitted. "I know you are, I am too," Quinn also admitted. "He compared himself to Sebastian last night," she said. Quinn was shocked, "What? He is nothing like him," she said. "I know and I told him that but he feels awful," San explained. "He needs to talk to a therapist," Quinn exclaimed. "He is going to. I am going to help him find one when we get home. Just please don't bring up what happened last night. I don't want to embarrass him" Santana asked. "I won't, I promise. Let's just enjoy the trip together" Quinn smiled. "Thanks, Q," San said before they went into the kitchen.

"Santana finally! I thought you were going to make my itinerary late" Rachel exclaimed. "I would never do that," Santana said in a sarcastic tone before taking a seat on the stool. Puck gave her a look but she just smiled, letting him know she was okay. "Where is the hunky soldier?" Kurt asked. "He is still sleeping, I thought I would give him some more time," Santana said nonchalantly. "Why were you guys on the couch?" Finn asked. "What?" San asked, snapping her head toward him. "When I went down to make sure the heat was working. You and Brett were asleep on the couch." Finn said. "They fell asleep watching a movie and I was not going to try and move either of them," Puck said, making the group laugh. San looked at Puck and smiled, he nodded before continuing to help pass out plates.

The group all ate breakfast while Brett slept soundly downstairs. Once they were done everyone retreated back to get ready. While Santana was about to walk downstairs, Mercedes stopped her. "So something woke me up last night," Cedes said. "Cedes" Santana started to say but she was cut off. "You don't have to explain anything to me. I know Brett has been having nightmares. Quinn told me all about them. I also know that it was him that was screaming last night. I saw him leave the house and you follow not that long after. I just want to let you know that if you need to talk to someone that is not related to him or just need to vent, I am here San." Mercedes explained. This is why Santana loves her friends so much. "Thank you" San whispered. "Here is some toast and bacon for Brett. You know Rachel will not wait for him to eat so he might need to eat it while we get ready" Mercedes said, making Santana laugh.

Santana grabbed the food and went down to the basement. Brett was still sleeping on the couch, he looked so much more relaxed compared to last night. She kneeled down next to him and stroked his hair back. "B, wake up," San whispered. His eyes fluttered open and he smiled. "It's already morning?" Brett asked, stretching. "Yeah, we need to start getting ready. They already ate breakfast but I thought you needed some more sleep so I didn't wake you." Santana explained getting up.

Brett followed her into their room. "Here is some toast and bacon so you can put something into your stomach," San said putting it on the dresser. Santana turned around and saw that Brett was staring at the same place she hit her head. She stepped in between him and the spot, blocking his view. "Stop thinking about it, I am okay. We are okay" she said. Brett looked down at her, she reached up and wrapped her arms around his neck. "Kiss me and let's enjoy Christmas," she said with a smile. Brett can't help but smile because of her smile that lit up the room. He leaned down and kissed her slowly. Running his tongue over her lips until they parted, Brett explored her mouth and pulled her closer. Santana moaned against his lips, loving the way he felt pushed up against her. "You guys almost ready? Rachel is freaking out about keeping our schedule" Puck yelled. They pulled apart, "I think we should get ready" Brett whispered, "yeah we should," San said, breathless.

Rachel brought the entire group to the local ice skating rink. "Fuck" Brett muttered when Puck handed him some skates. "What's wrong with you?" he asked, sitting next to him. "I don't know how to skate," Brett admitted. "How do you not know how to skate? That's embarrassing" Puck said, laughing. "You really think my drug addict father or Russell were going to take time out of their day to teach me how to ice skate?" Brett asked. Puck couldn't help but laugh, "that is very true," he said.

"You don't even know how to put on skates," Puck pointed out. "I know how to put on skates," Brett said, pulling on the laces. "No you don't. I have been watching you pull on the same laces for like 5 minutes." Puck said laughing. "Just help me before everyone notices," Brett whispered. Puck pulled his foot up and began helping Brett. "There, all done," Puck said, finishing securing the skates.

"Ready baby," Santana asked Brett. "I can't wait to see this" Puck muttered before Brett smacked him. "What is going on?" San asked, looking between them. "Nothing," Brett said quickly but Santana did not believe them. The two of them walked toward the rink. Everyone was on there having a blast. Puck was still behind Brett, needing to see the moment he walked on the rink. Santana stepped on and easily skated out. She realized that her boyfriend wasn't behind her and turned around. "What are you waiting for?" She asked. Brett attempted to put his foot on the ice but when he felt it slipping, he quickly pulled it back. That is when Santana put it all together, the smirk on Puck's face in the background was also a sign.

"You've never skated!" San yelled. Brett gave her a look that made her laugh. Santana skated over to him. "Come on baby, it's easy. Just glide" She said, pulling him. Santana held his hand as he slowly stepped onto the ice. Brett's hands were clutching her hands tightly. "You better not let go," He said as San skated backward, pulling him. "I won't," she said, trying not to laugh. Something about her tough soldier being terrified and looking like a baby deer was so funny to her. Puck skated up behind Brett and pushed him. "Puck I am going to fucking kill you," Brett said, trying not to fall. Santana couldn't help but laugh. "Try to catch me!" Puck yelled back as he skated away.

"This sucks," Brett said. "You are doing great, just keep going," Santana said, still holding on. "How are you so good at this?" he asked, finally looking up from his feet. "We do this every year, it's a tradition so I got better and better," Santana explained.

Brett started to feel more confident and started to pick up the pace. "There you go, you're doing it!" she said with a big smile. Just as Brett was going to let go, he hit a divot in the ice. Brett's foot immediately went up and out from under him. Brett hit the ice hard, landing on his back and pulling Santana on top of him. Brett groaned but couldn't help but start laughing. Santana was also laughing. Brett didn't even care about the people that were skating around them. He ran his hands down her sides and around her waist. "Brett," she whispered when she felt his hands start to travel lower. "Let's leave and do something a lot better than ice skating," Brett said with a wink.

Rachel stopped just next to them and sprayed both of them with ice. "Hey!" they both yelled out. "I heard you Brett and no. Sex is not on the schedule." she said before skating away. "Well it should be'' he muttered. Santana giggled, getting off of him. "Let's go," she said.

After skating and lunch the group got dressed up and made their way to the theater. "So this is where you guys competed too?" Brett asked as they walked in. "Yup, the exact place," Quinn said. "Were you guys ever scared?" he asked. "Definitely" Kurt quickly said. "Remember when they stole our songs," Mercedes said. The entire group laughed. "I thought we were going to lose," Santana said. "Everyone did, but we killed it," Puck yelled.

"If it isn't my favorite students," A skinny man said, coming up to the group. "Mr. Shue" Mercedes said first. They started hugging him and chit-chatting. "Santana Lopez," He said with a smile. "How are you?" she asked, hugging him. "A little nervous like I always am when we have these competitions. Who is this?" Mr. Shue asked, turning to Brett. "This is my boyfriend," Santana said. "And my brother!" Quinn pointed out. Santana laughed, "Yes, and Quinn's brother. Brett this is our old glee club coach" Santana explained. Brett shook his hand. "Welcome to this crazy group! I hope they welcomed you" Mr. Shue said. Brett nodded, "they have welcomed me with open arms." he explained. "Good! I need to go give the group a pep talk, go find your seats and enjoy guys!" said before leaving.

The group made their way to the theater. Brett loved watching Santana enjoy her time with her friends. She looked so happy to be back which made Brett happy that he decided to come with them. Just as the lights went down someone in the crowd caught Brett's eye. There is no way it was him. It was just impossible. It became too dark for Brett to get a real good look. The entire performance Brett couldn't stop thinking about it. Even as the Mckinley high glee club took the stage Brett only paid attention because Santana made him. He was glad he saw the performance. A part of him couldn't picture his sister, girlfriend or Puck dancing like that up on the stage. Brett kinda wished he could have seen them perform like this.

The New Directions were crowned the champions and the lights came back on shortly after, Brett quickly looked in the opposite direction. The man was gone. When would he have gotten up? "B" San said, getting his attention. "What are you looking at?" she asked. "Nothing why?" he asked. "Everyone already got up and you were still staring into space. You didn't even notice" She pointed out. Brett got up and they made their way out to the main lobby. "Are you sure you are okay?" San asked. Brett wrapped his arm around her and pulled her close to his side, "I am okay I promise" he said smiling. They met the group who were waiting for the New Directions.

"Brett, is that you?" a voice said. It was like a bucket of ice water was poured over his head. Brett whipped around bringing Santana with him. It was him…

"Brett! How are you?" he said with a big smile. Brett couldn't believe his eyes. The man in front of him was tall and built like Brett. He had darker hair but you could tell he was blonde when he was younger. The guy was slightly heavier and was wearing a nice clean dress shirt and slacks. Santana looked at her boyfriend who was still staring at the guy like a deer in headlights. Even Quinn noticed.

An older woman took the guy's hand and stood next to him. "Honey, who is this?" she asked. "Mel, this is my son Brett," He said, smiling. Santana's eyes grew wide, did he just say….son? "Omg Brett. Brian has told me so much about you! I am Melanie and I guess I am your stepmother" she explained. Brett still hadn't said anything.

"When did you get married?" Brett asked his father. "Brett," Brian said. "No, I want to know when you finally got your life together. Were you ever going to try and find me?" Brett asked. Santana tried to grab Brett's hand but he pulled away from her. Brian looked around at the crowd that was starting to notice them. They could tell that Brian was trying to defuse the situation. "Son, I just" he started to say but Brett cut him off. "No, do not call me son," he said. Brian's face dropped.

"Dad," a young boy said, coming up to the group. "You have a son?" Brett asked. Brian nodded, "This is Josh," he said. Brett couldn't believe it. He just turned on his heels and walked out. Brett rushed through the front of the theater doors, enjoying the cold and snowy atmosphere of the outside. "Brett!" Brian yelled coming after him. Brett turned around to face his father. He could see Santana and Quinn standing behind them. They looked like they wanted to help but also did not want to interrupt. "When did you get clean?" Brett asked. He always thought that his dad was going to die from a drug overdose and if he did get clean, Brett assumed his father would come looking for him.

"The day you left. I read the letter when I woke up and that was the last time I shot up heroin. You saved me" Brian whispered that last part. "Why didn't you come to find me?" he asked. "The first few years I was too unstable trying my best to stay clean. I wanted to reconnect with you but I was an addict. The last thing I needed was to bring you down if I relapsed." Brian explained. "So you just got yourself a new family?" Brett asked. Brian's face showed just how bad he truly felt. Brian pulled his wallet out from his back pocket and took out a folded piece of paper.

"This is that letter you wrote me. I remember that day so vividly. I woke up still with the needle in my hand and the tourniquet wrapped around my arm. This piece of paper was sitting on the table" Brian explained. Santana was clutching Quinn's hand. All she wanted to do was go over and hug her boyfriend but he needed this. Melanie also joined them outside and was watching the entire thing unfold.

"Dear Dad," Brian said. "I know what it says, I wrote it remember," Brett said harshly but Brian didn't let it stop him.

"Dear Dad,

I know you never wanted a child and that is okay, some people just don't want to be parents. With saying that, I know that you always looked out for me but your addiction was your life. You were a great man at the end of the day. You tried your hardest. I still remember that time you showed up at my football game. You were the loudest person in the crowd. But then we went home and you had me go to my room so you could shoot up. I wish I could have helped you more. I wish I could have gotten you clean because I know deep down that you would have been an amazing father. I am sorry that I had to leave. But I can't stay here knowing that the next time you stick a needle in your arm could be your last. I will make you proud even though you will not be around to see it. If you happen to get clean, I really hope we can see each other again. I love you, dad.

Your son,

Brett"

Santana quickly wiped the tears from her eyes. "Why did you read me that?" Brett asked. "I wanted to remind you of how much you actually cared for me. Because I was hoping that you would sit down with me and talk, I want to be able to explain everything" Brian explained. He was right. If Brian had just asked to sit down Brett would have definitely said no. Hearing what he wrote when he was younger brought back a lot of feelings. Brett loved his dad because at the end of the day his sickness was his downfall. "Please Brett, I just want to talk," Brian pleaded. Brett nodded, "fine, I'll meet with you," he said. Brian smiled. "How long are you in Lima?" Brian asked. "Only for Christmas," he said. "I know tomorrow is Christmas Eve but maybe we could meet tomorrow?" Brian asked. "Okay," Brett replied. Brian quickly pulled his card from his wallet. "Here is my phone number, just text me and we can meet at any time. It is completely up to you and I'll be there" Brian explained as Brett took the card. "Thank you, I'll see you soon," Brian said and Brett just nodded.

Brett watched as Brian left with his son and wife. "Brett" Santana whispered. "Please Santana. I just need a second" Brett said before walking away. "Should I go after him?" Santana asked. Quinn shook her head. "No, he'll come back. He just saw his father after years and he has a new family. It's a lot to take in." Quinn said. Santana nodded and watched as Brett disappeared out of view.

*I hope you liked having another flashback and meeting Brian! Please comment! I love reading what you guys think and want to see. Until next time!*