BERRY-CORCORAN HOME, SAME DAY.
Charlie rang the doorbell twice. She was nervous and worried. After her talk with Quinn and Sam. It was agreed that she would head over to Skyler's to talk and apologize.
Sam had planned on heading over there after school as usual. He honestly didn't want to be stuck in the house but he agreed. He and Quinn were watching a movie.
Neither of them wanting to have to sit in the presence of anyone of their other friends because they didn't want to have to pretend like they did every day, it was tiring.
At least with Skyler and in Quinn's case with Rachel, they didn't need to pretend and act super happy all the time. They could sit there and be somber, happy or play video games and relax in silence.
They knew that though Skyler didn't know their secret, she definitely knew something was wrong but she was letting them be and they appreciated her more than anything for it.
Charlie was about to ring the door bell again when she heard the muffled voice on the other side 'Just a minute.' Just than the door opened and a red, teary eyed Skyler answered. The surprise that it was Charlie was evident on her face.
"Hey." Charlie spoke softly. Seeing those sorrow filled green eyes made her heart break.
"Wha-What are you doing here?" Skyler ask nervously as she did her best to make her self presentable though wiping her face with her hands did nothing to remove the evidence clear in her eyes. She was hurting emotionally.
"Can we talk?" Charlie ask. "I just want to apologize."
"Why would you need to apologize? You did nothing wrong." Skyler stated in confusion.
"Yes, I did and I would like to give you a proper apology and be the friend that you obviously need, right now." Charlie spoke softly raising the bag of ice cream, chocolate cakes and DVD she brought with her.
Skyler's eyes filled with tears uncontrollably at the kindness Charlie was bestowing upon her. Before she could crumple into herself, Charlie stepped forward and pulled her in by the waist as Skyler's arms slid around the blondes neck, just as a sob escaped Skyler's throat.
Charlie began shushing her gently as she ran her fingers through the brunettes hair. She allowed the brunette to cry for a few more moments before pulling back and cupping the brunettes face as they made eye contact.
Charlie wiped the tears away with her thumbs as Skyler had done for Charlie a few weeks prior. She than silently took one of the brunettes hands, shut the front door and wordlessly guided Skyler to her own bed room.
As they entered Skyler's room, Charlie shut the door, placed the plastic bag full of goods on Skylers desk. Charlie toed off her shoes, took the brunettes hand again and led her to the bed.
She laid down and opened her arms for the brunette and Skyler's face crumpled as she allowed her body to burrow into Charlie's, her tears came full force.
The tables had turned and now Charlie was the comforter. Charlie kept running her fingers through Skyler's hair as the brunette buried her face into the blondes neck.
Charlie opened her mouth and began to softly sing. Surprising Skyler with it's quality and beauty. It didn't happen immediately but within a few minutes Skyler's cries lowered until they became hiccups , sniffles than without warning Skyler fell asleep.
Charlie felt such peace holding her but ached for the brunettes sadness. She stood awake not wanting to miss a minute of the feeling of having the brunette in her arms.
QUINN AND SAM, SAME DAY.
"Quinn?.." Sam spoke softly. The TV was playing a movie that neither teen was really watching. Both caught up in their own thoughts and worries. The volume was low and other than the sound of the TV and their breathing, it was as if no one was home.
"Hmm?" Quinn answered distractedly as she thought about Rachel.
"Do you think things happen for a reason? Like everything that we're going through?" Sam ask. Quinn looked at him with a raised eyebrow before replying.
"I don't know, really. Sometimes, I guess but than I think about Russell and how everyday is literally a day of us just trying to survive than all of that just goes out the window.." Quinn finished quietly. "Why do you ask?"
"I don't know. I was just thinking about everything. You know, dad, You and Rachel, Skyler and Charlie.. I mean think about it. How insane is it that mom and Shelby were best friends in high school? Than we're all in the same town now. I just think-I don't know, maybe.. Maybe somethings suppose to happen. Maybe something will change this time.." Sam finished. He looked torn between hope and disbelief in his own thoughts.
Quinn had to admit he did have a point about their mom and Shelby but what could possibly come of them being friends? Other than their mother now also had a safe haven to turn to.
It just meant to Quinn that everyone had someone to keep them safe but her. Not that she's not happy for them but it did hurt to know that she again was the outsider.
There was a difference between her and them and it just made her feel more sad but she didn't want Sam to know because than he'd feel guilty. She had a fleeting thought, wondering if this is how Rachel felt and if she did how sad but nice it was that, that was all she and Rachel had in common.
It was pathetic to her but what could she do? That was the hand she was dealt in life. It seemed Rachel was dealt a similar one. She wanted to believe that something would come out of their mothers knowing each other but at the same time, didn't put full belief in it because who wants to be disappointed, right?
CHARLIE AND SKYLER, SAME DAY.
Skyler groaned awake and her head ached a little. However; she felt rested and comfortable. She sighed softly and began nuzzling into her pillow than her eyes snapped open at the unexpected voice below her as it dawn on her that she wasn't nuzzling her pillow at all.
"Evening, sleepy head." Charlie spoke softly with a gentle smile. Skyler's eyes widened as she realized she was nuzzling into Charlie's chest and though that's exactly where she always dreams to be and she has been letting Charlie snuggle into her during Charlie's time in need.
Skyler couldn't help but panic that her gay was showing. She jerked up in surprise and embarrassment as she spluttered and stuttered out her apology.
"Oh crap! I-I'm so sorry! I wasn't-I mean I-I didn't- It wasn't-" Skyler looked on the verge of a panic attack and Charlie was confused but grabbed Skyler's hands.
"Hey. Hey, it's ok!" Charlie spoke softly. Skyler's mouth snapped shut but she still looked nervous. "You fell asleep and I didn't want to wake you." Charlie said sweetly.
"I'm so Sorry. I just-" Skyler began apologizing again anyway.
"Don't be. It was perfectly ok." Charlie said sincerely with soft eyes gazing at the brunette.
"I.." Skyler felt those eyes burning into her heart. It was easy to get lost in them. Charlie was so beautiful.
"Besides, you kept me entertained." Charlie said with an affectionate teasing smile.
"What?" Skyler ask confused and adorably worried in Charlie's opinion.
"You talk in your sleep." Charlie confirmed. Skyler groaned and buried her face in her hands as Charlie chuckled.
"Oh god." Skyler muffled behind her hands. "Shoot me, now." The brunette spoke dramatically. Charlie reached forward and removed the embarrassed brunettes hands.
"Oh, don't be so dramatic." Charlie said when she pulled her hands away.
"It's embarrassing." Skyler whined as she dropped her head to the bed to hide it under her pillow.
"No, it's not. I thinks cute." Charlie spoke without thinking, her eyes widen in mortification. Skyler blushed beneath her pillow. Charlie decided to change the subject immediately.
"So, are you up for talking?" Charlie spoke casually though her insides were jelly from her admittance. Skyler sat up after she felt her blush dissipated enough.
"Yeah, I guess." Skyler replied quietly.
"I just want to apologize for what I said earlier. I honestly wasn't thinking. I just saw my sister was hurt and I-" Charlie began.
"I already told you, you have nothing to apologize for. If anything I should be apologizing." Skyler cut the blonde off before she could go any farther.
"You? Why on earth would you need to apologize. How many times do I have to repeat myself? You didn't do anything." Charlie countered.
"I may not have done anything physically but it was my sister who hurt yours and I feel awful about it. All Quinn has done is try to help Rachel. Granted, I don't know why she hit Quinn and I don't think I want to know but.. I just don't understand why Rachel would and Quinn is just acting like everything is ok! You all act as if everything's ok! And I'm constantly worried about the 4 of you day and night and I have no clue what's going on and none of you want to confide in me! I have to deal with silence from my sister everyday and now I'm dealing with secrets from the 3 of you everyday! It drives me crazy that I'm only good enough for a place to sleep at night but not trusted enough for you all to actually speak to me in confidence!" Skyler ended breathing heavily as she finally released everything that's been building up. She hadn't realized that she started crying again. All she felt was her heart pounding and chest clenched in a vice grip of sadness.
Charlie sat wide eyed and frozen in surprise when Skyler first started on her tangent but soon she too found herself with welled eyes but the tears hadn't fallen.. Yet. The silence in the air was thick and tense. The blonde got her tear ducts in order before speaking.
"I'm sorry. I had no idea you felt that way.." Charlie spoke quietly.
"I didn't mean for all that to come out like that, I'm so sorry! I shouldn't have said that. You don't need to apologize!" Skyler spoke desparately as her fear of Charlie never coming to her again engulfed her.
"Yes, I do. I came here to apologize but also to be your friend. I obviously failed in the friend department because you've been holding that in for so long. I guess I didn't realize I was actually keeping secrets from you but still expecting to come over at all times of the night.. That is actually very inconsiderate of Sammy and I." Charlie replied softly. The mood becoming even more somber.
"No.. It isn't. You both obviously have your reason's and after me actually seeing evidence of said possible reasons, doesn't mean your inconsiderate. It just means that you need help.." Skyler spoke gently.
At the word 'Help' Charlie's eyes filled with tears as her breathing became labored. She was tired of hiding. She was tired of pretending and now she felt like a complete asshole because it was true.
She and Sam were being inconsiderate. Expecting Skyler to wake up almost every night in the middle of the night to let them in. Than they'd disappear before she even woke and expected her to not tell and to also not have questions.
If it were her, she wouldn't appreciate being technically 'used' either. The blonde began to cry silently.
"Oh no, please don't cry! I'm so sorry!" Skyler spoke immediately pulling the blonde into a hug.
Charlie cried for a moment as Skyler comforted her but than pulled back from the embrace to stare into the green eyes that always made her feel safe.
Skyler had already proven time and again how amazing she was and she has been putting up with her and Sam for the pass few weeks. She deserved the truth.
She deserved more than the truth, actually. Charlie believed Sam and Quinn would understand. Even if they didn't, it was still her part of the truth that she was allowed to divulge.
Charlie did her best to pull herself together. She was terrified of what would happen after she said what she was going to admit and part of her prayed that by doing so she would somehow either save them all or be beaten to death by her father.
Both options sounded very appealing. The first because every one would be saved from him or the second because death had to be better than her life, right?
"I didn't mean to upse-" Skyler started to apologize again.
"I never thought I'd meet anyone like you before..." Charlie cut in as Skyler's mouth shut upon the blondes words.
"I never dreamed that someone as wonderful as you would be my saving grace." Charlie continued.
Skyler ducked her head and blushed. Charlie smiled softly but it was just barely visible. She knew the blush would disappear when she continued.
"I remember thinking when I was little 'Why can't I run and play like the other kids?' I didn't understand that my father refused to allow us to get a barely there dot of a stain on our clothing. I didn't understand why we had to go to etiquette classes to become young men and ladies of society. All the other kids got to go to different camps during the summer anything they wanted, why couldn't we? We had to go to bible camp." Charlie shook her head in annoyance.
The blonde continued. "I remember the first time I held a basket ball in my hands. It was completely by chance. It was a Sunday and we had Sunday school. Our class had just let out for a recess because all the adults were still inside for some brunch thing the church was having. I can't remember what but all of the kids were so happy to hear that we could play in the church yard. Sam, Quinn and I knew we weren't allowed to run or play in the playground portion of the yard or any part of the yard, period. So, we sat on a bench. We just sat there staring at the other kids who were laughing and playing without a care in the world." You could hear in the blondes voice that she was getting angry with a tinge of jealousy.
"I was at the farthest side of the bench, when a basketball rolled to my feet. One of the teenage boys called out to me to toss him the ball. I had been watching them play and saw how they had passed it to each other. Sam and Quinn looked at me and were so scared of me touching it and so was I but our father said it was never polite to be rude. So I slid off the bench as properly as a lady should, than picked up the ball and chest passed it to him. Though, at the time, I had no idea what a chest pass was. Apparently I was strong for my age because the kid was surprised how well I passed it. He asked me if I ever played and I said no. He smiled and called me closer. I looked back at Sam and Quinn and yeah they were terrified but again I didn't want to be rude and have my father find out and be upset with me. So I went over." Charlie swallowed thickly.
Skyler did not like the feeling in her stomach that was alerting her to something that she suspected but didn't want to be true.
"He began instructing me a little and was showing me how to dribble the ball. Than he lifted me in the air, being careful not to fluff my dress and instructed me to shoot the ball in to the hoop. When it went in, my eyes widen so big as all the boys that had been playing with the kid that had me in his arms, cheered as did Sam and Quinn." Charlie spoke with a smile and giggled at the memory of Sam and Quinn's faces when the ball went into the hoop.
Their eyes were comically wide along with their mouths. Their faces lighting up like a Christmas at the shock and amazement of Charlie throwing a basketball through the hoop.
Such a simple act but seemed like the little blonde had moved mountains to 3 children that weren't allowed to play in anyway, shape or form, not even in the comfort of their own home.
Skyler smiled at the blonde upon seeing her smile and laugh at the memory. Imagining how adorable the 3 of them must have been.
"He continued to teach me and the more I played the more Sam and Quinn began to loosen up too. They cheered and clapped, laughing with me. It was the best moment of my life, even until this day. Everything was going so smoothly and than I froze because my fathers voice boomed from behind us. Sam and Quinn were just as petrified as I was. The boy turned to my dad and smiled. My father greeted him with a smile. The boys name was Jacob. Apparently he attended Mckinely and was the basketball captain. My dad apparently was trying to do business with his dad. Through out the conversation my dad smiled, chuckled and joked with the kid until they said their goodbyes. He seemed fine. He wasn't upset with me.." Charlie trailed off for a moment as she recalled feeling relief that she wasn't in trouble. Than her face contorted into anger and her tears welled up as her face began to redden.
"The drive home was in silence. When we got home I received a beating so bad I couldn't move. So did Same and Quinn. I got my beating for playing basketball, period. Quinn and Sam got theirs for cheering me on and being obnoxiously loud though when I think back on it, they weren't. All they gave were a little meek 'Yes!' and 'Cool' We were only 8. I didn't touch another basketball until I was ten and that's because my gym teacher had us playing for gym class. It was the only time I felt free." Charlie sniffled.
"After that I hid it, my love for it, I mean. It was Quinn who told me not to let my dad take away the only thing that made me happy. That I could still play, I just had to be careful where I played. She stole a basketball in middle school and gave it to me as a Christmas present because though it looks like we celebrate Christmas, we never actually do. The presents under the tree are all empty display boxes. He had my mom wrap them perfectly for when we have our Christmas parties. When Quinn gave me that ball, I cried my eyes out. As far as I know that was my first ever Christmas gift. I didn't know where to hide it so first I hid it in the tree next to my window by putting it in one of my extra knapsacks and tied it as high as I could climb in the tree. When I got to high school, I put it in my cheerios locker freshman year and it's been there ever since. So anytime I want to play I could just head to the river court after school. If he knew I was playing basket ball at all he'd beat me again. If he knew that I hate being Noah Puckermans girlfriend he'd beat me. Because Pucks dad is a very important client of his. The week that we were out he had beat Quinn so bad it would have been obvious so we all had to stay out. The day before school he came to my room and told me I was now Noah Puckermans girlfriend and if I fuck it up, he would beat me until I wasn't breathing anymore."
Charlie heard Skyler's gasp but refused to make eye contact at the moment. She had to get through this. Looking at Skyler would only cause here to breakdown.
"The reason Sam and I come here at night is because he is either beating the hell out of Quinn or our mother and we can't stand to hear it. He locks us in our rooms whenever he's beating any one of us. I think he locks us up at night because he doesn't want any of us getting ideas and attacking him while he sleeps. He mostly beats Quinn just because she's different. He hates her. The rest of us only get it when we do something wrong like the day Sammy was 3 minutes late to dinner because he was here hanging out with you and wasn't paying attention to time. The next day you asked why I hadn't met you for lunch because we were suppose to be going over our chem notes and I told you I had to help Sammy with something. We was in the choir room. I was helping him clean his cuts and re-bandage them because the old bandages were soaking through." Charlie spoke in sadness as Skyler stared at her with wide eyes and tears running freely down her face at the news.
Skyler felt horrible because she had been so jealous of Sam at the time because she thought they were dating.
Charlie continued but was on the verge of losing it. "When I told Sam and Quinn about my sneaking out to your house, I was terrified at the time. I thought you were going to tell someone but you didn't. Sam ask if I thought you would mind him tagging along because he can't sleep with all the screams coming from Quinn's room." Charlie choked on that piece but powered through.
"Quinn said that it was ok that we went as long as we were safe, she didn't care what happened to her. That's why we kept coming. The times we were injured were the days that he beat one of us instead of Quinn or my mom. All we have are those few hours of sleep we get here because when we're home, every creak, every rustling noise makes us jump out of skin that it's him coming for us because he always comes! Even when you think he isn't there, he is and there's nothing we can do t-to stop h-him!"
That was it. The dam broke and Charlie burst into tears as the weight of the truth lifted from her shoulders. Her body wracked with uncontrollable sobs as Skyler pulled her into her arms crying along with the blonde.
Skyler couldn't believe it. She had her suspicions but to have them confirmed not only broke her heart but filled her with actual hatred. She wanted to kill Charlie's dad. Right now was not the time, though. Right now she needed to comfort the beautiful girl in her arms and never let her go.
JUDY AND SHELBY, SAME DAY.
Shelby unlocked the door to her house. She spotted Skyler's Ferrari in the drive way along with Charlie's red beetle. The two mothers had groceries in their arms.
Actual groceries not what Shelby usually buys which is quick make microwavable dinners and boxes upon boxes of mac 'n' cheese. They carried it all to the kitchen and began putting everything away as they chatted.
"I'm going to check on the girls really quickly." Shelby said.
"Ok. Will you let Charlie know I'm here." Judy spoke as she put the food in the cabinets.
"Of course." Shelby replied before heading upstairs.
As she got closer to the door she heard a voice. It was Charlie's. The girl sounded upset. She heard 'Even when you think he isn't there, he is and there's nothing we can do t-to stop h-him!' Shelby's brow furrowed for only a second before her eyes widened in surprise as a sob escaped the young blonde.
Shelby's body tensed immediately. She wanted to go in and ask what was wrong but at the same time, experience had taught her it is always best to wait for a better opportunity.
You get the whole story and have the evidence you need before you assume and cause an even bigger issue. She had no idea who Charlie was referring to and though she wanted to know, Judy was right downstairs.
If she caused a scene and caused Charlie to become too scared to confide in her daughter like she is at the moment, than whoever this guy is could possibly get away with whatever he's doing to the poor girl.
She could hear her daughter consoling Charlie and it broke Shelby's heart. Something was going on and it seemed like Judy either didn't know or possibly did know but like Shelby wasn't completely informed.
Shelby sighed to herself. She'd wait it out for a little while longer and try to help the best she could in silence. She turned on her heel and headed back down to the kitchen and put her acting skills to work.
"So, what are they up to?" Judy ask with a smile.
"They're asleep." Shelby replied casually. Judy eyed her and raised an eyebrow. Shelby diverted her eyes. That damn eyebrow always got her to spill her guts.
"This early? It's only 4." Judy ask just as casually.
"Yup." Shelby replied assured. Judy narrowed her eyes. She knew Shelby was lying, she could feel it in her bones but she decided not to push it. She didn't know Shelby as an adult and she wasn't the same herself. Russell had made her a coward and she honestly doesn't feel bold enough to challenge someone as strong as Shelby.
"Ok than, let's get started." Judy said with a beaming smile that she kept on her face though she saw relief shine in Shelby's eyes. Before wariness took over the brunettes features.
"Cool but I have to warn you, this kitchen doesn't liked to be cooked in. I think it's filled with evil spirits of former step ford wives." Shelby stated as if it were fact.
Judy just stared at her dumbfounded for a moment.
"I'm kidding." Shelby deadpanned. Judy scoffed before shoving the brunette playfully.
QUINN AND SAM, SAME DAY.
Sam had received a call from Mike asking if he wanted to hang out because Tina was having a girls night with Kurt and Mercedes. Artie had called Mike and invited him to his house to have a bro's night.
The rest of the glee guys would be there, too. Sam however was not in glee club but Mike had ask if he could come because he knew Sam's dad didn't let him have video games. It was Friday night so it was going to be a game marathon.
Sam was in the middle of declining the offer because he didn't want to leave Quinn by herself but Quinn had heard the conversation and snatched the phone from him and informed Mike that he was on his way, before promptly hanging up.
Quinn smiled at him placed her hand on his shoulder and ushered him toward the front door while grabbing his coat along the way. She pressed it to his chest and spoke softly.
"Go. Russell isn't here for 10 days, Sammy. Enjoy it. Enjoy the fact that you have freedom to come and go as you please. I'll be ok." Quinn said tenderly.
Sam felt his eyes water. He knew Quinn was usually always alone and singled out by Russell all the time but here she was telling him to go out without her so selflessly, though she'd be alone for most of the night. He pulled her into a hug as tears slip from his eyes silently. She hugged him back just as warmly.
"I love you, Quinn."
"I love you, too, Sammy."
They pulled apart and she wiped his tears as she smiled at him as a mother would her child. It took all her strength not to let it show how sad she felt that he was leaving but she didn't want him to be miserable at home with her when he didn't have to be.
Moments like this were far in between. 10 days is a long time without Russell and she was going to make sure they all enjoyed themselves and just be thankful that she herself was safe from him for now, even if that meant being alone in the giant manor by herself.
"Now go." Quinn said with a giggle as she gently pushed him out the door.
He smiled at her and waved bye. She waved back. She watched him pull out the drive way and sighed sadly. She shut the door and turned around taking in the oppressive house and it's eerie silence. She started to feel her chest tighten. Though, Russell wasn't there, she could feel his presence.
"Okay.. No, I can't do this." She spoke to herself.
She grabbed her coat, purse and house keys and fled the house. Sam and Charlie were given cars, only for status not as an actual gift. However; Russell refused to purchase anything for Quinn because he didn't want to spend his hard earned money on a spawn from hell.
His words exactly. So Quinn walked with the sun just barely visible as the chilly cold October air lightly blew against her. She had no idea where she would go but at the same time didn't care.
Right now, her siblings and mother were happy and safe. Russell wasn't there so she could walk for as long as she wanted and not get a beating for coming home late. She decided to count her blessings and just live in the moment.
SHELBY AND JUDY, SAME DAY.
"AAAAAHHHHHH!"
Shelby screamed as she bolted to the other side of the kitchen as soon as a big ball of flame flaired out in front of her. Judy rushed from the hall bathroom to the kitchen.
She had just stepped away from Shelby after informing to add an item to the pan. Her foot barely stepping through the bathroom door when Shelby's scream struck fear in her, she whipped around so fast to get to the kitchen.
As soon as she entered the kitchen Judy gasped at the sight of the small fire on the stove.
She rushed over and grabbed the fire extinguisher from the wall and began hosing it down as the sounds of two pairs of feet rushed down the stairs in a hurry at the commotion coming from the kitchen below them.
Judy breath heavily as she finally extinguished the fire. She whipped around on Shelby so fast with wide disbelieving eyes, it caused Shelby to jump in surprise.
"What did you do?!" Judy asked in a raised voice though not in anger but she still had adrenalin coursing through her veins, her chest heaving from the fear that had engulfed her upon entering the kitchen. Just than Charlie and Skyler stood in the doorway eyes wide as they took in all the smoke hanging in the air.
"I did exactly what you told me to do!" Shelby fired back with an indignant huff.
"No! You didn't! If you did, there would not have been a fire just now!" Judy replied in her own indignation.
"Do not blame this on me!" Shelby replied stubbornly.
"Who else is to blame?! You were the only one in here!" Judy countered.
"I TOLD YOU THIS KITCHEN IS FULL OF EVIL SPIRITS! THAT CAN'T STAND THE FACT THAT I'M SO TALENTED, SO THEY'RE SABOTAGING MY COOKING!" Shelby argued to get her point across.
Judy stared at her owlishly blinking disbelieving wide eyes at the ADULT brunette in front of her for a milli-second, before responding with narrowed eyes.
"WHAT. IS. WRONG. WITH. YOU!" Judy shouted at Shelby.
'I DON'T KNOW!" Shelby yelled back with her hands throw up in a huff.
The two teens stared at the women as if they were in fact crazy. Shelby and Judy stared each other down before Judy cracked and started giggling uncontrollably.
In under a second Shelby followed, before they knew it. Both women were laughing hysterically, still not having noticed the two worried teens were standing in the door way.
Charlie and Skyler looked at each other than back at the women. "Um.. Are you guys high?" Skyler asked. Her question only resulting in the women laughing harder.
RACHEL, SAME DAY.
Rachel has been at the river court for over 2 hours. She wasn't in the mood to have Shelby or Skyler gawk at her attire. She had to admit Quinn's clothes kept her warmer than her own sweats and hoodie.
It didn't hurt that they smelled good either. Rachel heard foot steps approaching but didn't move. She had no fear. A body sat down next to her and she glanced to the side just as a familiar scent hit her nostrils as it blew in the wind.
Chocolate brown eyes captured green. The two teens stared at each other for a moment in silence. Rachel broke it by casting her eyes back to the water in acceptance of the blondes company.
Quinn had been walking without a thought as to where her destination was. She didn't realize her feet took her to the river court until she saw the hoodie figure sitting on the grass.
She felt her heart flutter that Rachel took her advice. The brunette looked to have showered and was now wearing Quinn's clothes. The blonde knew the argument earlier was bad but she hoped Rachel would still allow her company.
When Rachel didn't say anything or walk off. Quinn felt happiness fill her that in the brunettes own silent confirmation, that they were ok.
SAM, SAME DAY.
Sam was silently fuming in the corner, not interested in playing video games anymore. When he first got to Arties, he was surprise to see no parents in sight.
Apparently, it was Arties parents anniversary and they were going to be out for the night. They trust Artie to be ok and it wasn't the first time he had been home alone.
They were more than happy to allow him to have a bro's night because than he wouldn't be completely alone. However; Puck and Finn had brought beer. Now all the guys were drunk except Sam.
Everything was going fine until Finn started talking about Skyler which led to Puck talking about Charlie and how he got her to blow him and he got to bust his load in her mouth.
Sam felt hot tears filling his eyes. No one noticed how angry he was getting. Puck and Finn were talking about his sisters, yes, he now looked at Skyler as if she were his sister because that's how he saw her truly.
They spoke as if they were just whores you pick up on the street. Finn stating that he was totally going to be swiping Skyler's Vcard within the month and Puck told him he'd be swiping Charlie's Vcard asap!
Preferably within the next week or two. Mike was drunk dancing in the corner to the music playing and Artie was barely aware of what was being said, he was so drunk. Rory was hanging on Finn and Pucks every word and Joe was playing video games.
Sam knew he couldn't say anything. Russell didn't care if Puck took Charlie's virginity, even by force. As long as he got the Puckermans business he didn't honest to god didn't care.
If he found out Sam got into a fight with Puck. He'd not only beat Sam to an inch of his life, he'd beat Charlie to. Sam was losing his grip though, it was just a matter of time before he attacked Puck and Finn.
JUDY, SHELBY, SKYLER AND CHARLIE, SAME DAY.
The four had left the kitchen after opening all the windows to help air out the kitchen. They were now in the living room talking.
"How was your nap sweetie?" Judy ask and Charlie furrowed her brow in confusion for a moment and was about to open her mouth but Shelby cut in.
"She must have slept like a dream. That California king is worth every penny, don't you think so Charlie?" Shelby spoke up with a pointed look. Judy couldn't see Shelby's face from her angle.
Charlie did her best not to react to what was obviously a save by Shelby. Skyler wasn't quick enough and Judy caught it but didn't say anything.
"Yeah, it definitely is. I could've slept all night." Charlie replied. The two teens immediately filling with worry at the look Shelby was giving them. Judy was a little more subtle with her assessment.
"What time did you guys get here?" Skyler ask.
"Well, it's.." Shelby trailed off as she glanced at the grandfather clock in the corner of the living. "8:30 now so-" Before Shelby could finish, Charlie and Judy jumped to their feet in a rush.
The transformation that happened before Shelby's eyes had her not only shocked but worried. The mother and daughters posture straighten immediately upon standing.
Their demeanors went from relaxed and cool to fake and stoic but still pleasantly polite. Shelby and Skyler watched the two flustered women rushed in a lady like fashion to gather their coats. Shelby snapped from her daze first as she too hopped up from her seat followed by Skyler to chase after the two blondes.
"Wa-wait! Where are you going?!" Shelby ask confused and a little desparately.
"I do sincerely apologize Shelby but we must be going. Thank you so very much for your hospitality." Judy replied in such a robotic step ford wife way that made Shelby's skin crawl.
Shelby could see there was a slight tremble to Judy's hands. Charlie was standing stoically eyes cast to the ground in what looked like an obedient manner.
"I-hold on a second, please!" Shelby pleaded as she grabbed Judy's wrist halting the blondes exit. "I don';t understand. Yo-You said you'd.." Shelby sighed before stepped into Judy's line of sight.
"I just thought we could hang out longer, you know? Like we use to. I've only gotten to hang out with twice since we've reconnected!" Shelby began speaking desparately with no shame whatever that she was technically begging for the woman's company.
Judy's eyes softened. "W-We could watch movie's or-or play boards games. You know how much I hate board games but I'd play them.. for you." Shelby finished.
Skyler had never seen her mother act this way. She felt like she was watching herself beg Rachel to talk to her or anything really, when Rachel was first brought home. She feared her mother would get the same treatment she did.
"I.." Judy began but nothing left her lips other than that one word.
There was a war waging in the older blonde. Part of her wanting to give in to Shelby's every request and the other was fear urging her out the door disparately before she'd pay a hefty price for her disobedience.
"Daddy expects us home for dinner, is all Ms. Corcoran." Charlie spoke up in such a small childlike tone Shelby felt her heart ache. Skyler's brow furrowed in confusion.
"I thought you said your dad wouldn't be home for the next 10 days because he was on a business trip?" Skyler ask.
Shelby eyes widened a fraction than an ugly feeling began churning in her stomach as realization followed by relief flooded the two blondes eyes and posture. Their entire demeanor shifted into a relaxed manner. Judy giggled nervously.
"Oh how silly of me. I completely forgot. I'm sorry we were such in a hurry. I like to have dinner prepared and set on the table by 6 pm sharp, so everything is ready on time. I simple forgot that my husband had left earlier this afternoon. Quinn and Sam are out who knows where, so there I-isn't really a need for me to be home." Judy rambled nervously as Charlie though relaxed a little became increasingly nervous at the look Shelby was giving her mother.
"So.. You can stay?" Shelby ask.
She was trying really hard not to let what she was actually feeling show. Something was definitely going on and she was going to get to the bottom of it. First the teens and now their mother.
All switching on and off between being obedient or relaxed and cool. However; she'd keep her mouth shut until she had her evidence. So, she plastered on a smile and acted giddy when Judy nodded.
"YES!' she through her fist in the air wrapped an arm around Judy and began escorting the blonde back to the living.
"Hey, Charlie?" Shelby called to the teen.
"Yes?"
"Text your brother and sister and tell them to come straight here when they get done doing whatever they're doing." Shelby spoke with a smile before smirking at Judy.
"We'll make this a family affair." Judy smiled at the brunette mother's statement.
SAM, SAME DAY.
Sam grit his teeth. Artie had passed out and Mike had left as soon as he got a call from Tina that she was available for a little while. Puck and Finn were playing video games but still talking about girls except Puck was talking about all the girls he was fucking while he is still dating Charlie.
Sam couldn't believe the guy. He could catch something from anyone and give it to his sister or any other girl he messed with and didn't care. Sam stood up and opened his mouth to finally say something to the two other boys but slammed his mouth shut when his phone alerted him to a new message.
He pulled his phone out aggressively as he stared down the back of Finn and Pucks heads. He open the text and felt relief. His eyes watered at his sisters name.
He read the text than fist bumped the air silently. He was giddy, happiness filling him instantly as he grabbed his coat and bolted from Artie's house immediately and heading straight for the Berry-Corcoran home.
RACHEL AND QUINN.
Quinn and Rachel had been sitting in the same spot for 4 hours now. Not a word spoken between them. It was comfortable secretly for both girls being in each others company.
The silence was broken when Quinn's phone beeped signaling she had a message. She pulled her phone with a quiet 'sorry' aimed at Rachel. Rachel just shrugged and kept her eyes on the river.
Quinn opened the message and read it. She smiled but than thought about Rachel and how she'd feel about them all being at her house. She cleared her throat for what she was about to say.
She was not going to make Rachel feel uncomfortable in her own home. She'd stay home alone in her own house rather than accepting an invitation that Rachel wasn't comfortable with her accepting.
"Um.. That was my sister. She said that our moms have been hanging out all day and they decided to turn it into a sleep over for every one. So, they're expecting me-but if you don't want me there-I can just go home!"
Quinn spoke rapidly. "I'll understand. You probably don't want any of us there!" Quinn was aware that she was rambling nervously like an idiot but Rachel hadn't said anything, yet.
Rachel for her part thought secretly that it was nice that Quinn would be understanding of her not wanting her around but at the same time got pissed off that she felt her stomach do a funny flutter at the blondes kindness.
She also didn't want to care because it was Shelby and Skyler's house, not hers. It didn't matter what she thought. In her head, it wasn't her place to say anything to begin with. So, she settled on the only answer that she usually used.
"Whatever." Rachel replied as she stood up.
Quinn surprised to be cut off from her word vomit, stood up quickly with the brunette. Rachel began walking and Quinn winced when she realized her ass had fallen to sleep.
She grimaced but followed the brunette silently. They walked on and as they got to the Fabray Manor, Quinn sighed sadly as she looked up at the dark looming house that just screamed horror story.
She began walking up the drive way but stopped upon hearing the words that made her eyes shut than well with tears and her chest was released from the vice grip of suffocating sadness of being the only without a safe haven.. Of being alone.
"Are you coming or what?" Rachel's annoyed voice wrung out low and a little gravely from barely any use. Quinn turned to the brunette surprise evident on her features.
"I thought you didn't w-" Quinn began.
Rachel didn't give the blonde the chance to continue as she turned abruptly and continued on walking. Quinn stared for a moment before scrambling to catch up with the brunette.
They continued in silence with Quinn constantly glancing at the brunette. She didn't understand Rachel at all. One minute she ignored her than the next she was kind to her.
Quinn couldn't make heads or tails of it but she wasn't going to question it. Rachel was allowing her to come over to her house to spend the night. She wouldn't have to be alone and that meant more to Quinn than anything.
As soon as they reached the house, you could hear the loud rambunctiousness from the driveway. The two teens headed inside and as soon as their presence was known all the sound ceased as all surprised eyes took in the pair.
Not only because they showed up together which would imply they had been together this whole time but Rachel was dressed in cheerios attire with a bundled wet looking towel tucked beneath her arm.
They only had a second to gawk before Rachel continued on upstairs with every ones eyes watching her go. Before a door made them jump when the door slammed shut. The occupants in the living all silent for a moment before Shelby spoke.
"Was that a cheerios logo I saw on my daughter? Let alone that it's actually new clothing and shoes?" Shelby questioned the blonde with wide enchanted eyes.
"Um.. it's kind of a long story but.. yeah." Quinn replied quietly.
Shelby stood up from her seat followed by Skyler. Shelby pulled Quinn into a hug as she had tears in her eyes. Skyler jumping in on the hug as well. Quinn was confused. Shelby stood back and smiled warmly, full of radiance at Quinn.
"I don't how you did it but you are definitely something magical, kid." Shelby spoke as she cupped the blonde blushing cheek.
"I didn't do anything." Quinn modestly replied.
"Yes, you did. No one could get her to wear anything other than what she got on her own but somehow she's wearing what I assume is your clothing?" Shelby ask and Quinn nodding.
"She slapped me in the face for trying to help her and I'm her mother, so yes. You are magical." Shelby finished.
All eyes wide minus Skyler at the news that Rachel had slapped Shelby. "Alright." Shelby said as she put an arm around Quinn.
"Let's get this party started!" Quinn finally took in the scene before her. Sam was in his pajama's that he had left at Skyler's house for when they went over during the nights when Russell was home, sitting back on the recliner looking content and happy.
Charlie was wearing a pair of Skyler's pajama's, sitting comfortably and looking cozy with the brunette on the love seat. Judy was in what Quinn assumes to be Shelby's college sweats and big plain white T.
Her blonde hair out of that restricted painful looking bun it was always in, cascading down her shoulders and back with a warm relaxed smile on her face. Shelby was also in her silky expensive looking pajama's with her hair falling down her back and as laid back and relaxed as her mother.
Everyone looked happy and the loud rambunctious sound that she first heard upon arriving was picking up in volume again. Quinn smiled at her mother and siblings. This is the most relaxed she had ever seen them.
There were chips, soda, bowls of ice cream and take out boxes every where. The TV and DVD player were ready and waiting to start a movie.
Quinn felt excitement and happiness but a part felt sadness as she glanced at the ceiling. She thought about Rachel upstairs by herself.
She knows the self imposed isolation was the brunettes own way of protecting herself but she couldn't help but wish Rachel would come down and enjoy this time with them.
She sighed to herself. She could only shake her head, there was nothing she could do. Skyler stepped in front of her with a sad smile.
"I know what your thinking." Skyler spoke quietly everyone else too caught up in debating what movie to watch.
Skyler had ran upstairs to get Quinn a pair of her pajama's to borrow. The blonde raised her eyebrow in silent question. "I wish she'd come down and spend time with us too.." Skyler replied to the silent question sadly.
Quinn's eyes softened at the brunette. The blonde did it without thinking, she pulled Skyler into an unexpected hug surprising the brunette. The two felt their hearts break for the girl upstairs and their own.
Everyone else in the living acted as if they didn't notice. Quinn released Skyler with a small smile. Gesturing with the clothing in her hand she said a small 'Thank You.'
"Your welcome. The bathroom's just down the hall to the right." Skyler informed her. The blonde nodded and headed to the bathroom to change.
