*I can't believe it has been one year of writing this story! Thank you to everyone who has been following this story, it means so much! Now on to the chapter!*

"Santana, Santana, Santana" Quinn yelled as she opened up the door. Santana shot out of bed to quickly shush her. Brett just managed to fall asleep. As his deployment date was getting closer, it was getting harder and harder for Brett to sleep. Santana has caught him multiple times just laying in bed looking at her. When she questioned him about it, he just said that he can't sleep. Which is true but what Santana didn't know is that Brett is trying to remember every little thing about her. He wants to make sure that when he gets overseas, he can close his eyes and see her perfectly. Every little imperfection that is utterly perfect to him.

Santana pushed Quinn out her bedroom door. She looked back and saw her boyfriend sleeping peacefully before she shut the door. "Really Q, barge into my room at 7 am," San asked, walking into the living room. "Sorry, I forgot that Brett was staying over," she said. "How could you forget, you know that we are bunking together till he leaves," San said, plopping down on the couch. "San you know that it's tomorrow right?" Quinn asked. She sat across from her best friend. "What?" Sanatan asked, snapping her head up.

Quinn could see the sadness on her face. "San, tomorrow is the 28th." She said slowly. Santana looked at her phone and saw that today was the 27th. She had a little reminder banner that said Brett's going away/birthday dinner is tonight. Tomorrow is the day she has been dreading. She nodded, "I know Quinn, of course, I know that tomorrow is the 28th" she quickly said. Quinn didn't push any further, she could tell that Santana was on high alert. If she had to guess, Santana was just so wrapped up in everything that the date just escaped her.

"What time are you going to be home tonight?" Quinn asked. "I am hoping to be back around 6, If everything happening today goes as planned," San said. "What do you mean go as planned?" Quinn asked. "The latest body was found 2 weeks ago so we should be getting the final autopsy report back. I am hoping once we get that back the detectives will take the majority of the day looking it over and following leads. I am hoping to sit down and try to find a connection between the multiple bodies" San explained. "So that means you will have a normal day or at least as normal as an ADA can get." Quinn laughed. "Exactly, I just hope nothing comes up that makes me late" San groaned. "I think that is the first time you have said that you hope the case doesn't catch a break" Quinn laughed. "Call me selfish," San said getting up, "I am going to get ready for work since you woke me up" She explained. Quinn grabbed her hand, "Are you okay?" she asked.

Santana looked over at Quinn. Her best friend looked so sad. Even though she is asking if San is okay, Santana knows that Quinn is struggling just as much as she is. If Santana had to guess, she would say that Quinn was hoping that San was going to say that she wasn't okay. That way Quinn knew that it was okay to fall apart. Santana didn't say anything, she knew if she told Quinn that she was not okay, then she would start crying. So instead, Santana just pulled her friend into a tight hug. Santana could tell that Quinn was doing everything in her power not to cry. "We are going to get through this," Santana whispered. Quinn nodded, "Together?" she said. "Together" San repeated. They pulled apart and Quinn forced a smile, "Okay go and get ready so you can come home as early as possible" she said. San nodded before walking back to her room.

It took Santana twice as long as it usually would to get ready for work. She just kept stopping and looking over at her sleeping boyfriend. San wanted to wake him up so he could kiss her goodbye but that would be unfair to him. Brett needs his sleep especially with tomorrow being the day. Santana leaned over and gave his forehead a gentle kiss, "I'll see you later baby, I love you" Santana said, even though he was sound asleep.


When Brett woke up it was already noontime. He quickly showered and got ready for the day. He had a few things that he needed to finish up before being shipped off tomorrow. Brett walked over to the barbershop where Puck was meeting him. "Hey man, ready to get the snip snip," Puck said, patting his best friend on the back. "You make it sound like I am getting a vasectomy," Brett said laughing while walking in. "You basically are, you are going to look like a young boy after this" Puck replied. "This is literally the worst part of a deployment. I hate the way I look clean-shaven" He groaned. "Well my buddy Romeo is going to take care of you, right dude" Puck said looking over at the barber. Romeo nodded, "Sit down," he said.

Brett sat down and the barber got to work. "Did you tell San that you were getting your haircut?" Puck asked. "Nope, I didn't really think to tell her. Do you tell Quinn every time you get a haircut?" he asked. "No but this is a big thing," Puck said. "It really isn't" Brett laughed. The barber, Romeo, gave Brett the typical Marine buzzcut. It just makes it easier since it takes longer to hit the 2-inch rule. Then the next step was to make sure Brett had a clean-shaven face. Once it was all over Brett took a look in the mirror. This made it all real. Every time he does this, haircut time always makes it real because it is the final step to make sure he will pass inspection.

"Now where are we going?" Puck asked. "I need to pick up my uniform from the dry cleaners and then we can head back to the apartment," Brett explained. "You want to just walk, it is pretty nice out?" Puck asked. Brett nodded and they started their walk.

"I am going to miss you," Puck admitted. Brett looked over at him, "And I am going to miss your rent" he added. Brett laughed, "Don't worry, the military is going to be paying my rent. I already set it all up so there will be no problems. So you will have the whole place to yourself and only have to pay half the rent" Brett explained. "That actually sounds kinda nice," Puck said. "I also wanted to ask you about Tubbs," he said. "What about LT?" Puck asked. "Since I am leaving, what do you want me to do with him? Quinn said she would take him but I don't think Santana would like that very much" He said. "No, what the hell! Lord T is our cat, you can't just take him away" Puck exclaimed.

"First off, Lord Tubbington is my cat since I am the only one who pays for everything. If anything I would say you are like his uncle" Brett said. "I am at least his godfather," Puck said, offended. "Fine you can be the godfather but that doesn't change my question," He said again. "I want to keep him at our apartment, that way I can have a buddy to come home to." Puck explained. "Big bad Puck loves the cat" Brett joked. "I am not even going to argue that, he's the best, '' Puck admitted.

"I think Quinn is going to be pretty pissed," Brett said. "I don't care, it means she will come over more. Plus I think Santana will like not having the cat living in the apartment." Puck said. Hearing Puck say that made Brett think, "hey Puck" he said. "Yeah man" Puck replied. "Please don't forget about San," Brett said. "Dude how could I forget about her? She used to sleep in bed with Quinn and I when she and Bash got into fights or her parents pissed her off" Puck said laughing. He thought that Brett would think it was funny but his friend didn't laugh.

"Santana only has you guys. I am the reason her parents do not talk to her anymore. The only people she has are me and you guys." Brett explained. "I promise you, Santana is going to be okay. She is the strongest person I know. Also, you can not blame yourself for San's parents. They have been horrible since we were in grade school." Puck said. "We will not forget about Santana, it is hard to forget about her. Don't tell her but she really is the glue of the group" he added. "I think that is the nicest thing you have ever said about her" Brett expressed. "If you say one word I will deny the entire thing." Puck laughed.

The guys picked up Brett's suit and went to their apartment. Brett's suitcase and duffel were piled next to the door. He went and hung the uniform on the door in his room for tomorrow. "So everything is all set," Puck asked. Brett nodded, "I am completely packed," he said. "Come on, let's go get the groceries that Quinn ordered and head over there. You know she is going to ask for our help" Puck said, patting Brett on the back. Brett was so thankful for Puck, looking at all this luggage was making him think way too hard. Right now he just needed his friends and girlfriend.


The guys picked up the million groceries that Quinn pre-ordered and made their way to the girl's apartment. Once they got there, they realized that the only person home was Quinn. "Where is San?" Brett asked. Quinn looked shocked, "OMG is that my brother?" She asked, smiling. "What?" Brett asked, looking around confused. "You look so handsome!" Quinn said, reaching out to feel his face. The scruffy beard was no longer there, now he was completely clean-shaven. "And less homeless," Quinn added. "Hey, Santana liked the scruffy look," Brett quickly said. "That's because she likes to hold on to something when she is having sex" Puck from the couch. Both Brett and Quinn looked over at him. "You're disgusting," Quinn said. "How the hell do you know that?" Brett said, his face reading clearly. Puck quickly raised his hands, "I promise I have never had sex with Santana. She is just very vulgar when she is drunk, I promise." Puck looked terrified. If looks could kill, Puck would be dead.

"I am messing with you, I know you never have," Brett said laughing. "You scared the shit out of him," Quinn said. "Good, that's what he gets for talking about my girlfriend," he said. "Not funny, man," Puck mumbled.

The guys were put to work chopping vegetables and herbs while Quinn started preparing the chicken. A knock at the door tore the group from their conversation. "Did San forget her key again?" Brett asked, laughing. "No she would have started banging and yelling," Quinn said. "I'll get it," Brett said, getting up. He walked over to the door and opened it up. The face behind the door was not someone who Brett was expecting to see.

"What the hell are you doing here?" Mr. Lopez said. "Well, this is my sister and girlfriend's apartment. What are you doing here?" Brett asked. "Where is my daughter?" Carlos asked or more like demanded. "She isn't home yet," Quinn said from behind Brett. He stepped out of the way so Quinn could see the man who was standing at the door. Carlos Lopez took this opportunity to walk into the apartment. "This is all your fault," Carlos said, pointing his finger at Brett. "What are you talking about?" Brett said.

"Do you want to tell me why my best resident was just arrested and taken out of the hospital in handcuffs?" Mr. Lopez asked. He looked like he was about to explode. "I have no idea but he deserves to be arrested," Brett said. "You know your precious resident trashed a military gym" Puck said. "They have no evidence of that," said. "Actually they do," Quinn said. Everyone looked at her. "I spoke to my connections at the Manhattan police department. Turned all the evidence that I collected over and they seemed to agree with me" She explained. Carlos looked extremely furious.

"So you are to blame for this," he said, stepping forward. Brett stepped closer also, he was not going to let him get any closer to his sister. "I did what I needed to do. Sebastian got his buddies together and trashed an establishment, there is video proof" Quinn said. "That silly gym is nothing. You are taking a doctor out of service which is putting patients at risk. You are also putting your so-called best friend's love of her life in prison, what is Santana going to think of that" Mr. Lopez yelled. Puck groaned from behind the group, "When is this guy going to get it" he mumbled.

"Really? The love of her life? Would the love of someone's life assault her?" Quinn yelled. "Quinn," Brett said. "Assault her? What are you talking about?" Carlos Lopez asked. "Sebastian assaulted Santana, your daughter! Touched her without her permission and you know what that does to a woman. A Lot Mr. Lopez, that affected her a lot" Quinn explained. Brett hated hearing about what Sebastian did to Santana but he didn't think that it was Quinn's place to say anything. "That isn't true," Carlos said. "Yes, it is," Puck said. "I don't believe any of you," Carlos said. The trio was shocked, how the hell could he still not care. "I will ask Sebastian about this and trust me when I say he will clear all of this up. My daughter was probably just storytelling again." Carlos said, walking toward the front door. Before he shut it though, he turned back around; "Tell Santana that I am expecting a call from her and I will be having my lawyers work tirelessly to get Sebastian out of jail." He said before slamming the door.

"I hate that guy" Puck mumbled. "When were you going to tell us you handed everything over to the cops?" Brett asked. "She told me," Puck said but Quinn shushed him. "I didn't want to get anyone's hopes up. We all know that the cops were in on it so I took a chance and gave the evidence to a friend of mine. I didn't know if it was going to work but it did. The only reason I didn't tell you is that I knew that you would have told San." Quinn explained.

"So Sebastian is really in prison?" Brett asked. "Yeah, but you heard San's dad. He is going to have his lawyers working on getting him out. I bet he has the best lawyers in the city which means Sebastian isn't going to be in jail long" Quinn said. "It doesn't matter, it will still be on his record," Puck said. Brett nodded, "you're right," he said. "I had to do something for her," Quinn exclaimed. "I know you did but Santana should know," Brett said. "I will tell her I just didn't want to speak too soon, you know" she explained. "I know, you did good, Quinnie," Brett said with a smile. "You don't think she will be mad?" Quinn asked. "No San is going to be thrilled," Puck said. "You have no worries, just don't tell her that her dad showed up here," Brett said. "Why not?" Quinn asked. "It will just make her upset and she doesn't need that right now. Especially today" he said. Both Quinn and Puck nodded, agreeing with him.


The entire group was over but Santana was still not there. "I am getting worried, do you think we should call her?" Brett said, looking down at his phone. "I already did, she got caught up at work but is on her way," Mercedes said. Brett looked relieved, "I like the haircut by the way," she said, ruffling his hair. "Thanks," he laughed. "Come one everyone, take your seats, I am putting out dinner!" Quinn yelled. Everyone took their seats when the front door flew open. "I am so sorry I am late!" Santana yelled. "You are just in time, sit down, I am plating dinner," Quinn said, grabbing her coat.

Santana went inside the apartment, "Where is Brett?" she asked, looking around. Everyone looked around confused before looking over at Brett. "I am right here babe," Brett said, basically in front of San. Santana looked at him as if she had no idea who he was. Her face looked completely perplexed until it was like a lightbulb went off inside her head. Santana marched up to him and placed her hands on his jaw. "You got a haircut and shaved," she said, turning his head from side to side to see the entire thing. The other people in the room couldn't help but laugh. "I had to get one, or I wouldn't have passed inspection," Brett said. "It is so short and clean," San said, running her hair through the top of it. "Do you like it?" He asked. "I do, I just wasn't expecting it," She said. San leaned forward and gave him a kiss, "I am sorry I am late" she whispered. "It's okay you are here and that is all that matters" he whispered back. "Okay love birds, time to eat" Quinn announced. Santana gave Brett one more kiss before taking her seat next to him at the table.

Aaron sat next to Brett. "This is a much better send-off dinner than your last one," Aaron said. "What was his last one like?" Finn asked. Carrie laughed, "I tried to make a nice meal and ended up catching the oven on fire" she announced. "You didn't!" Tina laughed. "Oh but she did," Brett laughed. "I was able to put it out" Aaron explained. "Yeah you did but then we ended up in the emergency department getting your burns treated. I went to the airport from the hospital" Brett said. "So this is a much better send-off dinner" he added.

The food was passed around the table. Everyone gets a little bit of everything. Brett couldn't help but look at the people around him. He couldn't believe how he got here in the first place. At one point in his life, he was just waiting to be killed in the war. It wouldn't have mattered because the only people who cared were Aaron and Carrie, but Brett knew that they would be okay in the long run. Now, look at him. Sitting at a large dining table with a group of people that he would consider his best friends. Brett looked over at Aaron and Carrie who were conversing with the other people at the table. Brett has never seen them look so carefree, especially the day before deployment. It is nice to see Carrie finally having girlfriends and not always hanging out with military personnel.

Then Brett's eyes moved over to Quinn and Puck. His little sister is so big now. Brett is so proud of the woman she has become especially since the parent situation wasn't the most ideal. He realized that he didn't need to protect her because she was so strong on her own. Then his eyes flickered to Puck, the craziest but most loyal friend he has. Brett wouldn't pick anyone else to date his sister. Having him around makes going overseas just a tad bit easier, Brett knows that his two favorite girls are in good hands.

Last by definitely not least, Brett's eyes landed on the beautiful Latina next to him. He would have never guessed that the woman he was admiring in a picture on the side of his sister's bed would end up walking into the apartment a mere seconds later. Then what turned into harmless flirting, led him to almost fighting a guy on his first night there. Brett always supports women but the fact that he would put everything on the line for a woman he just met means she must have meant more. Santana started laughing at something that someone else said. Her smile was the most beautiful thing in the entire world. Her laugh was music to his ears, almost like a drug. Brett was addicted to Santana and there was no way to recover.

How in the hell is Brett going to leave without his fix every day. Brett loved Santana more than anything in the world. He would do anything for her because she is his everything. Brett thought back to his life long before Santana came into the picture. He was a rogue bachelor soldier who had his heartbroken by a woman. Brett gave up on everything, a life, a relationship, and a family. How did getting captured and stabbed, sending him to the brink of death be one of the best things to ever happen to him?

Now he had absolutely everything. Brett looked around again. So many people here to support his send-off. His sister knows the truth and is still supporting him. A woman who is giving up her family support, taking a risk on being in a relationship with a troubled soldier. Brett knew in his heart that no matter what happened, Santana was going to be the last person he will ever be in a relationship with. She will be his wife and mother of his children or Brett will be dead, there is no other option.

"Hey" Santana whispered. This brought Brett out of his trance and back into reality. Everyone was having their own conversation, it was just Brett and his Santana. "Are you okay?" she asked, rubbing his leg. Brett smiled and grabbed her hand. He held it up and kissed the back of her hand, "I am absolutely perfect" Brett said. "You're okay with just having a low-key night and not a big party right? We didn't know what you really wanted and assumed that this would be better." San explained. "This is exactly what I wanted. Everyone important to me is here and that is what is important" Brett said. Santana's heart fluttered, "Happy Birthday baby," she said, reaching up and giving him a chaste kiss. Brett felt tingles, it happens every time he gets his fix.

Once dinner was over everyone just lingered in the living room. "PRESENTS" Rachel yelled, getting everyone's attention. Santana groaned just at the sound of Rachel's voice. This caused Brett to pull her close and kiss her neck. "Be nice" Brett mumbled into her skin. "I am always nice," she said. "Sometimes I wish that you were bad," Brett admitted. Santana gave him more access to her neck, "I'll keep that in mind, I would love for you to punish me" San said. "You two are disgusting," Mercedes said. Santana stuck her tongue out at her.

They each took turns giving Brett birthday gifts. A new leather jacket, a watch, and a new elite shaving kit. When it came time for Puck to give his gift, he handed Brett a card. Brett opened it up and saw concert tickets. "You got me concert tickets to Jay-Z?" he asked, confused. "Yeah! You told me you wanted to see him. He is coming to Lincoln Center next year!" Puck explained, excitement took over his expression. "Are you fucking kidding Puck?" Santana said. "What? That is an awesome gift!" Puck said, no understanding. "He is being deployed, dumbass and we do not know when he is coming home" Santana explained. Puck's face went from confusion to guilt very quickly. "Hopefully you'll be home but then and if not then San we can go," Puck said. Quinn shook her head. "I will kill" Santana started to say when Brett burst out laughing. Everyone looked over at him, "I can't believe you forgot but these are awesome Puck. I really hope I am home in time" Brett said. Puck looked relieved that Brett wasn't made but Santana still gave him the side-eye.

Mercedes was the last to go. She went over and grabbed a large box from the floor. "I hope you don't mind but I had Puck grab something from your apartment that I needed to complete your gift." She said, Brett, nodded, kinda confused but still took the box from her. "I wanted to get you something that you could use, over there, something special" Mercedes explained. Brett opened the box and took out the tissue paper. Inside was something he was very familiar with. Brett took out his combat helmet, the one that he had packed to bring overseas. "You wrapped my helmet?" Brett asked.

Mercedes laughed, "look inside," she said. Brett flipped over the helmet and peered inside. He felt a pit in his stomach and tears began to swell in his eyes. Brett looked up at her, a tear escaped his eyes. "I saw it on Pinterest and then Aaron helped me" Mercedes explained. Everyone else wanted to see inside the helmet too. Brett turned it so Santana and Quinn could see it. Lined on the inside were pictures. One of the whole group at Thanksgiving, one of Quinn and Brett, one of Brett and his father at Christmas, a picture of Brett, Aaron, and Carrie, A picture of Brett, Drew, and Aaron on their last deployment together. The final picture right in the center was a picture of Brett and Santana on her Birthday. The day Brett admitted to Santana that he loved her. He was standing behind her with his arms wrapped around her waist. They were both smiling ear to ear.

"Cedes" Santana whispered. "That is beautiful," Quinn said, obviously crying. The entire group was admiring it. Brett looked up at her again, he was emotional and didn't care that everyone saw it. "I wanted you to have us with you. That way you knew what you were fighting for and you would come home" Mercedes explained. She whipped the tears that cascaded down her face. Brett stood up and pulled her into a hug. "Thank you, I love it," He whispered. Mercedes couldn't even respond.

Mercedes' gift made everyone a little emotional. Quinn turned to Santana, "Is your gift going to make us cry too?" she asked, trying to laugh. Santana smiled awkwardly, "I already gave him his gift," she said. "What did you get him?" Finn asked. Santana awkwardly shifted in her seat. "Yeah Santana, what did you get him?" Kurt asked, laughing. "Shut the hell up" San mumbled. "We all want to know," Puck said. Mercedes couldn't pass up the opportunity, "tell us" she said, smiling. "You guys do not get to know, only we do" Brett explained, laughing. "Oh it was that kind of gift," Mike said. All the girls plus Kurt laughed.

Santana's phone went off. She grabbed it confused because she placed it on 'do not disturb'. Looking down she saw that it was one of the detectives, so San excused herself and answered.

Santana- "ADA Lopez"

Olivia- "Santana we need you down here right now."

Santana- "Why? What is going on?"

Olivia- "We have a match. There was DNA found underneath the fingernails of 3 of the victims. The lab was running it through CODIS and a match just hit. We need a warrant right away"

Santana- (Looked over at Brett)

Olivia- "Santana, he has a flight leaving LaGuardia in an hour. You need to hurry"

Santana- "Judge Choi lives near me, text me the evidence and I'll meet you at the airport"

Olivia- "Perfect, I'll see you there. We already have SWAT called, I am not taking the risk of losing this guy" (Hangs up).

Santana caught Brett's attention and waved him over. He snaked his arms around her waist, "You want to sneak away now?" he asked with a smirk. "I need to leave," she said. Brett looked concerned, "Why? Is everything okay?" he asked. "I am fine but they caught the guy, the one who was killing the veterans. I need to go get them a warrant to apprehend him" Santana explained. "Then go, you need to catch this guy" Brett pushed. "But," she said, concerned that he was going to be mad. "But nothing. Meet me at my apartment after, I will be waiting for you. Just go get this asshole Tana" Brett said. He leaned forward and gave her a kiss. "I will be as fast as possible" She promised. "Just be safe and call me if you need anything," he said before she raced out the door.


Santana was overcome with emotion watching the suspect get loaded up in the back of the police car. The creep was smiling the entire time. Santana couldn't wait to get back and tell Brett everything. Especially since he was right all along and was one of the reasons they were able to catch this guy.

She quickly raced her way up the third-floor walk-up to Brett and Puck's apartment. It was all planned that San and Brett would stay here while Quinn and Puck stayed at her place. Then Quinn and Puck would meet them at the airport to send him off with Santana. Santana used her key to get into the apartment. The moment she walked in, she was met with Brett's luggage all packed by the door. Santana stopped and stared at it while she closed the front door. She couldn't help but notice that there was not as much stuff as she assumed Brett would need. He is going over there indefinitely, so you would think he would need more than a suitcase and a duffel.

Brett came out of the hallway, most likely coming from the bedroom. "Are you sure you have enough stuff?" Santana asked. "There isn't a lot of room out there in the desert plus I wear the same uniform over and over" Brett laughed. Santana looked up at him, he was standing in front of her in just a pair of sweatpants. His chiseled chest was on display for her to gawk at. "How did it go?" Brett asked. San smiled, "well my handsome boyfriend helped solve the case," she said walking closer. "What do you mean?" he asked, confused. "You were right, that day I was looking through crime scene photos. You told me that the guy was most likely ex-military" Santana explained.

"Do you know why he did it?" Brett asked, intrigued. "He is claiming that he didn't do it but we looked into his background. The man is named Christopher Westwood, I guess his father is someone very high up in the Army." She said, Brett, nodded, "I've never heard of him but I do know of a 5-star general named Lawrence Westwood," He said. Santana chirped up, "yes! That is his father. I guess the son got kicked out of the military and was trying to get back at the people he felt wronged him" she suggested. "So now what happens?" he asked. "Well, the man is saying he didn't do it. So once we get him in arrangement then he will most likely plead not guilty which means I need to take him to trial" San explained.

Brett couldn't help but smirk picturing his smoking hot girlfriend nailing this monster in court. He snuck his arms around her waist, "I have to say, I am going to miss not being in that courtroom watching you work" Brett admitted. "You would have come?" she asked. Brett nodded quickly, "absolutely, I would love to see how you work. I better be the first call you make after you send him to prison" Brett said. "You have too much confidence in me," she said. "I have all the confidence in the world in you," he admitted.

Brett leaned down and swept Santana off her feet. She instinctively wrapped her legs around his waist and laughed. "What are you doing?" San asked. Brett walked toward his bedroom. "I am going to make love to my amazing girlfriend," he said as if it was obvious. Brett kneeled on the bed and slowly lowered her back to the bed. He took his time pulling off her clothes, leaving Santana just in her underwear. He looked down at his girlfriend, sprawled out on his bed. "You are beautiful," Brett whispered. "I love it when you tell me that," Santana admitted. Brett leaned down and captured her lips. The kiss was slow and passionate. "Meow Meeeeooooowwww" Lord Tubbington screamed. Brett pulled back and looked over. His kitten is standing on the bed right next to the couple.

"Brett get rid of the cat right now," Santana said. "I am not having sex with it in this room" she added. Brett quickly scooped up the cat, "Sorry buddy but she wins this fight" He whispered. Santana rolled her eyes. Brett placed the kitten on the ground and shut the door. "So I was thinking of something before the cat interrupted us" Brett admitted. "You better have been thinking about me," San said. Brett laughed, "of course I was thinking about you, I always am. But I am talking about this," he said, pulling the bottle of wine out of the closet. "Remember this?" he asked. Santana nodded, it was the very expensive bottle of wine that Brett bought the night he told her the truth about his past.

"You said that you wanted to leave it for a special occasion, what do you think about cracking it open tonight? Our last night together" Brett said, shaking the bottle in the air. Santana got up off the bed and walked over to him. She grabbed the bottle and looked at the label. This was a bottle for a very good occasion. Santana shook her head. "No again, when are we going to drink it?" Brett asked. "I don't want to celebrate our last night together for god knows how long. I would rather celebrate when you come home" Santana said looking up. "We will drink this bottle of wine the night you return, I promise," She said, whispering the last word. Brett grabbed the bottle and stored it back in the closet before looking back at her. "I will hold you to it," He said.

They made their way over to the bed, shedding their underwear in the process. Brett pressed his naked body against hers. He tucked the lone strand of hair out of her face behind her ear. "I love you so much Santana" Brett mumbled into the crook of her neck as he sucked on her pulse. Santana grabbed his face, making him look into her eyes. "Then make love to me Brett, that is all I want tonight" she admitted.

Brett captured her lips. He was going to do that for her tonight. Their kiss intensified as their hands roamed each other's bodies. Each trying to memorize the exact feel of their skin, every crevice, and imperfection. Brett's lips moved down her neck to her collar bone, he was sure that he was leaving marks. Santana knew exactly where he was going, Brett was predictable when it came to her body. He captured her nipple, Santana moaned loudly. Noone gave attention to her breasts as Brett does. Her nipples stand at attention whenever Brett comes into the picture.

Brett lined himself up with her entrance. He didn't even need to check if she was worked up enough because Brett knew Santana. She was always ready for him and he was always ready for her. Brett slid into her quickly. Santana groaned at the sudden intrusion. He filled her up so perfectly like they were made for each other. Every time they had sex, it felt like the first time all over again. Her skin felt on fire underneath his touch. As he thrust into her, Santana felt like she was seeing stars. Brett and only Brett always managed to hit that spot deep inside her that send shockwaves over her entire body. "B" she moaned, feeling herself getting close already. Ever since her birthday, Santana felt overly emotional and horny. So it never took too long to get her close.

Brett continued rocking into her, he slowed down his pace wanting to savor the moment. "You are going to cum all over my dick Tana" he groaned. Santana tossed her head back trying to hold on long. "No, look at me, love" Brett said, pulling her face back so she was staring straight into those beautiful blue eyes that she fell in love with. Her pussy started spasming around his shaft. "I want to feel you, Tana. We are going to cum together" he said. Brett leaned forward and kissed her with all the passion in the world. He wanted his lips to do all the talking that she needed to hear.

This sent her over the edge. Her pussy convulsed and her legs shook. Brett continued to rock into her as deep as he could go. She got so fucking tight every time she orgasmed. This always pulled Brett with her. She milked him dry and he pumped her full of his warm seed. Pushing it so deep into her that Brett was sure that it wouldn't flow out when he pulled away from her.

Brett pulled out and collapsed next to her on the bed. Santana wasted no time turning on her side and cuddling up next to him. She knew that in a few hours he would be gone, which means she can't waste any time. Santana laid her head on his bare chest. They both held on to each other as if they were going to be pulled from each other's grasp. "I love you Brett" Santana whispered. "I know baby, I love you too," he said, kissing her on the head.

"How am I supposed to do this without you?" Santana asked. It was a question that plagued her since he told her that he was leaving. Brett watched her hand dance over his abdomen, she was tracing his abs. "You were doing amazing without me before. I know that you will be okay" he said. "I know I was doing good things but no one has made me feel like this other than you" she admitted. "I will be home before you know it. I am going to be thinking of you every day. While I am gone, I want you to live. Please do not sulk at home because it is just going to make the time go by slower" Brett explained. "I promise I won't" she whispered. "Just wait for me Tana, please" Brett begged. "Always" Santana answered quickly. She kissed his chest gently. They didn't want to fall asleep because that would bring morning sooner but wrapped up together was just too comfortable.


When Santana woke up in the morning, he wasn't in bed with her. One part of her was sad but another part was relieved because she didn't think she could peel herself away from him. Santana took a long hot showered. Then got dressed in an outfit that Quinn sent Brett home with. She paired an oversized grey topcoat with a grey T-shirt and distressed jeans that were cut off and frayed at the ankles. Completing the outfit with a pair of off-white pumps and her hair up. Santana kept her makeup casual since she assumed that today would force a lot of tears.

When she walked out into the living room, Brett stood tall in his uniform just like the day she met him. He was so incredibly handsome and strong. "You look gorgeous," he said, smiling at her. "And you look very handsome," she said. "Are you ready to go?" Santana asked. Brett could tell that she was scapegoating, not wanting to face the reality. "Yeah but just one more thing," he said. "Here," Brett said, handing her a manila envelope. "What is this?" She asked, peering inside and seeing papers. "Everything important. My social, birth certificate, bank account and life insurance" He explained. "Brett" Santana groaned. "I know you don't want me to say anything but I need you to have those. I usually have Aaron hold on to it but now I have you. So please, just hold on to them, just in case." he said. Santana could see that he was pleading with her. She was not going to start a fight. She nodded and slid the paper into her large purse, "I'll keep them in my safe at work. That is where I keep all my things" Santana explained.

"Are you ready to go?" Brett asked. Santana turned her head so she wasn't looking at him, "Shouldn't I be asking you that?" she asked. Brett knew that this was how she copes, he learned when he told her that he was being deployed. "This is your first deployment, the first is always the worst. I still remember mine" Brett said. Santana sniffed, trying not to cry; "What was it like?" she asked. "I was completely alone. They had this big send-off from the base because it was the first deployment for a bunch of us. Everyone had their family there crying and hugging them but it was just me. I got on the bus alone and sat there until everyone was done" Brett explained. Santana couldn't let Brett feel alone again, she finally met his gaze. Brett could tell that her eyes were full of tears just waiting to spill over.

"You are not alone anymore" she whispered. "I know now get over here," Brett said as he pulled her close. Santana's arms wrapped around his waist. "I love you so much Santana Lopez" Brett whispered. "I love you too Brett Pierce, now kiss me before I cry," she said trying to smile. Brett didn't want her to wait any longer and quickly captured her lips. His face was so smooth compared to the rough beard she associated him with. Brett pulled back and leaned his forehead against hers. "Your skin is so smooth," she said, rubbing his jawline. "Do you like it?" he asked. "It's okay, but I kinda like the scruffy look especially between my legs" Santana explained. Brett laughed, "Noted, I will grow it back out when I get home." he said.

Brett's phone beeped so he quickly looked at it still holding his love. "Quinn and Puck just left for the airport so I think we should go," Brett said. Santana hugged him tighter and pushed her face against his chest. "2 more minutes," she whispered. "Okay baby," he said, kissing her on the top of the head. Brett held her close, it ended up being more like 4 minutes but he didn't care.

"Okay, I am ready," Santana said, pulling away from him. "Do you need me to carry anything?" she asked. "Nope I got everything," Brett said, pulling his duffel onto his back. "MEOWWWW" Lord Tubington screamed, running out from somewhere. "Tubbs!" Brett yelled, scooping the kitten up. "I'll miss you buddy" He whispered, kissing the kitten on the nose. Santana watched him whisper something in the cat's ear. Right when he finished the kitten started meowing loudly and raising his paw toward Santana. "What did you say to him?" she asked, petting the cat lightly on the head. "To look out for my favorite girl," he said. "You better come over and hang out with him, it will be like hanging out with me" Brett added. "It will not be like hanging out with you but maybe okay, I am not making any promises," San said. Brett gave the kitten one last snuggle before placing him back on the ground.


The entire drive over to the airport Santana held Brett's hand firmly on her lap. There was no way she was not going to hold on to him just a little bit longer.

As they walked into the airport, Santana held on to one of his hands while the other one pulled his rolling suitcase. They checked the bags and sent them on the conveyor belt, then started walking over to security. Right when they turned the corner, Brett was met with all his friends holding signs. "Omg," Brett said, smiling wide. "Surprise" Everyone yelled.

Brett pulled Puck into a big hug. While Quinn pulled Santana close, "are you okay?" she asked. Santana just shook her head, 'no' but Quinn knew not to push her on it so she just held her.

Brett went down the line saying goodbye to everyone. He has never had a send-off like this and it really touched his heart. Brett made his way to Mercedes and gave her a big hug. "I need you to do me a favor," he said. Mercedes nodded, "anything," she said. "Make sure she is okay. Santana won't admit it but she needs support surrounding her. Quinn has Puck so Tana needs someone" he said. Mercedes smiled, "I promise, I'll look after her," she said. "Thank you Cedes" he whispered. Puck stepped up and pushed Mercedes out of the way. "Okay thanks for that" she mumbled. "I am going to miss you bud, but at least I have Tubbs," Puck said. Brett chuckled, "I am going to miss you too bud," he said hugging him. Brett looked around to make sure no one was in earshot of him before whispering to Puck. "If I don't come home you need to give it to her" Brett whispered. "Man, you are going to come home," Puck quickly replied. "I know that is the plan but sometimes things do not go as planned. Just please promise me that you will give it to Santana just as I packaged it" He said. Puck nodded, "I will, you have nothing to worry about. Just focus on coming home, ``he said. Brett nodded, "I'll see you soon," he said, giving Puck one more hug.

Brett turned toward Quinn who stepped up and gave him a big hug. "You better come back in one piece, you hear me," she said. Brett couldn't help but laugh. "I will Quinnie, I'll be back in no time. You won't even notice I am gone" he said. "I find that very hard to believe, I'll notice," she said. Brett laughed, "You have become an amazing woman despite all the shit you have gone through. I am so glad we were able to reconnect because I don't know what I would do without you. I love you so much Quinnie" Brett said. The tears fell from Quinn's eyes, "I love you to bro" she said hugging him as tight as she could,

Once Quinn let go, Brett turned toward the girl, who he didn't want to say goodbye to the most. Santana walked about out of Mercedes's arms and into his. "I love you, Tana," He said, kissing her on the head. "I love you too" she whispered but he heard her loud and clear. "You don't want to miss your flight," Santana said, pulling away. Brett knew that this was how she was and he needed to respect it. "Bye Brett," Santana said sniffling. "Bye Tana," he said, squeezing her hand one more time before dropping it. Brett waved to everyone, one final time before walking toward security. Everyone started walking toward their car except for Puck, Quinn, Santana, and Mercedes who stayed behind to make sure he got through safely.

Mercedes had her arm wrapped around Santana. "You don't need to be so strong right now," she said. Santana just listened silently, "You are going to punish yourself for saying goodbye like that and you know it. This is the last time you are going to see him for a while. Don't let him leave like this" Mercedes said. Santana knew she was right. "Fuck this" Santana whispered dropping her purse and slipping off her heels. Santana took off running toward Brett. "What is she doing?" Puck asked. Mercedes smiled, "Having her proper goodbye" she said, watching the moment.

Brett heard his name being called from behind him. He could recognize that voice even in a crowd full of voices. He turned around, dropped his bag immediately, and caught Santana as she jumped into his arms. Brett scooped her up, supporting her as her legs wrapped around his waist. They stood in silence, letting their cries speak volumes. "I don't want you to go," she cried. "I know baby," he replied. "But you need to go," San whispered. "I know," he whispered back.

"I love you so much. Which means you need to come home so we can start our lives together. I don't want to be with anyone else B, you're my person" Santana said looking at him. Her mascara running down her face. "You're everything to me," he whispered. "I am going to be waiting for you no matter how long. I am not that other girl" she said, shaking her head. "I know you aren't, you're a million times better" Brett replied, leaning his forehead on hers. "When am I going to hear from you?" she asked. "My phone isn't going to work so I'll call you from the base phone when I can. We can even skype too but if you don't hear from me for a few days that is completely normal. It takes a while to get to base" Brett explained. Santana nodded, not liking that answer but appreciating the honesty. "Are you bringing your phone?" she asked. "Of course! I need to jack off to your pictures we took the other day" he said smirking.

No matter how sad she was, Santana couldn't help but laugh. "I am so glad we took those," she admitted. "Trust me, so am I" he chuckled.

Brett heard the boarding call for his flight. "I have to go," he said, not wanting to let her go. "I love you, Tana," Brett said, putting her back on the ground. Santana pulled him down by the back of his neck and captured his lips. She needed to taste him again, memorize the feeling of his lips on hers. He pulled back slowly, "it's not goodbye it's a see you later" Santana whispered. "See you later beautiful" Brett whispered, wiping the tears from her cheeks. Brett kissed her lips one last time before turning and walking through the security entrance. He knew that one of them needed to turn away and Santana couldn't do it.

Mercedes came up next to her friend and wrapped an arm around her. Quinn came up on the other side and intertwined their hands. Puck stayed back behind the girls, they needed this moment.

"He's gone," Santana said, staring at the entrance he walked through just moments ago, her tears streaming down her face. "I know" Mercedes replied, holding her tight. Quinn's head landed on Santana's shoulder. "He's really gone," Santana repeated again as she began to sob. The girl's just held her tighter, there was nothing else to do as Santana's sobs echoed through the airport.

*This chapter was so hard and emotional to write. I really hope you guys liked it. Please comment*

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