Disclaimer- I own nothing. But let me just say, tonights episode? Amazing! I cried. Like a baby. This little piece came to me after watching the last little scene. Can it be February now?
Theres Hope
Space, he needs space. You remind yourself of this time and time again throughout the course of the week. When he leaves you alone in the tree lot, when his joyful Christmas rant suddenly turns depressing as he talks about it 'turning into a nightmare', when your eyes meet for those precious few seconds as Artie starts walking again, when he accidentally brushes against your back as everyone hides in Mr. Schue's apartment, and again when you lock eyes while decorating the tree for said teacher. He needs time, space. He needs to get over the hurt you caused him, he needs to heal.
You catch sight of his smile in the small glance the two of you share before looking down, and your heart gives a light tug. Its the first one hes offered you since the break up, yet you refuse to get your hopes up. Still, you feel his eyes remain on you when you finally look down, and that glimmer of hope seems to reside in your chest.
After the decorating, cookies are passed around and laughs are shared amongst everyone. Tina and Sam compliment you on your baking skills, and for the first time since the new school year started, you feel like part of a real team. They're including you in the conversations, asking your opinions and sharing in your laughter. You finally feel like a part of something real again.
Soon enough, its time to leave. You procrastinate due to feelings of guilt over leaving Mr. Schuester to fend for himself for the holidays, and find yourself cleaning up a bit with Mike, Tina, and Finn after everyone else has left. Your father calls you to announce his arrival, and you bid them all a goodbye and happy holidays as you grab your coat.
Just as you reach for the door, something stops you. He stops you, his voice. Your name passes through his lips and, for the first time in over two weeks, he doesn't sound angry. Turning around, your met by his shy half-smile and your heart skips another beat. Your ceramic plate is in his extended hand and you take it gratefully, your breath seemingly caught in your throat.
"I know your jewish and you don't really celebrate it," He says, his tone softer than you've heard in weeks. "But... Merry Christmas."
All your able to do for a moment is smile and nod, thanking him silently before he goes back to cleaning. Suddenly speechless, you leave the apartment quietly and make your way down to your fathers car. Inside, your heart is pounding and your mind racing. He needs space, you remind yourself. But hes healing. Theres hope.
AN- Sorry its so short, but I think its kind of better this way given the point of view (if you could call it that). This was originally supposed to be a one-shot, but I'm not sure. Thoughts? Either way, don't be afraid to tell me what you think. Reviews make my creativity ignite :)