Chapter 2.

"So what is it? It's like 2am and us meeting like this is kind of weird." Aaron said as he hopped into the blacked SUV, which was parked a few houses down from his house.

"I can't possibly risk anyone finding out about our alliance. Now it's been two weeks, and all I have seen is you've managed to piss that Mohawk topped brother of yours off. I expected more of you Aaron, maybe I was wrong!" Sue sighed leaning back in her seat.

Aaron scoffed, "I'm sorry coach but a major take down takes time, planning and building trust between you and your target! Maybe that's where you have always gone wrong you know, jumping on them to quick!"

"Continue.." Sue instructed.

"I'm just saying alright they love me right now. I don't want to rush into anything. But trust me phase one is nearly complete."

"I want to see Will Schuester fall, I want to see him weeping uncontrollable tears of failure! Glee club needs to go down! I demand to bring it to it's knees. We have a deal remember!" Sue said angrily.

Aaron rolled his eyes, like he could forget, "Trust me. I'm going to mess up everything, you need to believe me. And the more they like and trust me, the worse it's going to be when I shove that knife into their backs!"

A smile almost appeared on Sue's face, "If I had ever given up a baby boy for adoption seventeen years ago I'd be wondering if that boy was you right now. You have the makings of a great dictator."

"Thanks.. I guess."

"And that annoying Rachel girl, make her cry. She was wearing an outfit today that seriously hurt my eyes and offended me."

Aaron bit his lip, "Okay."

"Good. Now I've got to go. I'm expecting a call from Gordon Brown, the ex prime minister of England."

Aaron hoped out the car, "Leave it to me alright. You got my word I will break the glee club."

Sue nodded, "Till our next rendezvous."

Aaron watched as Sue drove away slowly, he couldn't help but feel guilty. Not towards anyone else but Rachel, he'd felt it when Coach had asked him to make Rachel cry. Rachel crying didn't make him feel good at all. But he needed to get over that right? Caring about Rachel's feelings? He was turning into Noah and that wasn't a good thing at all.

Aaron watched, he watched his fellow glee club members hoping to pick up something he could use to cause a rift. He took a bit of his lunch and stared at Santana, she standing in the cafeteria with Tina getting lunch. Aaron could tell Santana wasn't very interested in what Tina was saying. Santana was to busy staring over at Brittany and Artie who sat happily eating lunch at away from her. Aaron frowned, he knew that look. He'd had it when he first saw Brittany with Artie, Oh man did Santana like Artie? He continued to watch as he ate his pudding cup. Artie kissed Brittany wheeled himself towards the exit. Brittany sat there for a moment before Santana joined her. Aaron watched as Santana laid a hand on her leg under the table, they whispered almost as if they were in their own world. Aaron frowned, maybe Santana didn't like Artie. Brittany got up and almost seemed to storm away from the table, leaving a glum looking Santana.

"Oh My god!"

Santana wasn't into Artie, she was into Brittany. It all made sense to him now, she'd always been into Brittany. I mean he knew the were close and at a party one time they'd made out for an apparent dare. But it all made perfect sense. They way Santana went from one guy relationship to the next without a care, why? Because he was digging chicks. And Santana had hated Aaron when he dated Brittany, jealously? Aaron laugh to himself, this was perfect.

Aaron headed over to Santana's table, "Hey can I sit here?"

Santana raised an eyebrow, "I guess."

Aaron sat down, he was trying not to look so pleased with himself, "What is up with Brittany? She went out of here pretty fast. Looked kind of up-set?"

"Why do you care? You still got it bad for her huh?"

"No, she's just a friend. We were over months ago."

Santana sighed, "Sure whatever you say!"

Aaron scoffed, "I don't think I am the one harbouring feelings you know."

Santana's eyes narrowed, "Come on Puckerman spit out whatever you are trying to say. I am not in the mood for playing games especially with someone that can't play them as good as me.."

Aaron leaned closer, "Since when have you been playing for the other team?"

Santana tilted her head, "Uh what are you talking about? Did I seem like a lesbian when you and I were getting it on that time?"

"I dunno Santana, I mean I see things you know. I see the way you look at Brittany. The fact that it kills you every time you see her with Artie. How you don't give a crap about the guys you date, the only person you have ever gave a crap about is Brittany!"

Santana's face started to loose it's composure, "Listen up Aaron I know you it must be hard for you. Always living in the shadow of your more popular, better in bed, and more talented twin brother. But that doesn't mean you can go around trying to make up stories to cause drama!"

Aaron laughed, "Getting on the defensive Santana? Look I ain't here to try and make fun of you. I just wanted to let you know if you want to talk about it with someone I'm here." he knew he was pressing buttons.

"First off I'd rather squat on razor blades than have some emotional conversation about my feelings with anyone, let alone you. And secondly I am not a lesbian." Santana said flicking her hair over her shoulder and leaning back in her chair.

Aaron nodded, "Whatever you say. I think I should have a talk with Sam though you know. He's still unsure why you ever really broke up?"

"Don't be talkin' my business to anyone or I'll go Lima Heights on your ass for real!"

"Just admit it then? I am not going to judge you. I kind of like you Santana, you don't care what the hell you say to people. I like that." Aaron told her.

Santana crossed her arms, "So what? I am into girls. In twenty years I'll probably wear doc martins and flannel. And have a cat and be playing for an all women's softball team. But you know what in the words of Britney Spears, that's my Prerogative!"

"I ain't judging you. Man, if anything I'm proud of you for telling me that."

Santana sighed frustratedly, "Look I'm not ready to tell everyone yet. I just would rather you kept it to yourself okay?"

Aaron nodded, "I won't okay, I'm not like that. You can trust me."

"I don't trust anyone. If you do tell anyone I will find you and cut you!" Santana told him, "And I know your secret as well. I see the way you look at the Jewish Ompa lumpa in class. You have it bad, the thing is Rachel is all caught up on Finn."

"Well maybe I am. So how about we team up, you can use me so people think were doing it. And I can use you when I maybe want to make Rachel jealous?" Aaron asked.

Santana smiled, "Sure you can be my beard any time. And I'm down for annoying Rachel whenever."

Aaron nodded, knowing this information was going to come in useful. Just like Santana thinking he was caught up on Rachel. Everything was really starting to fall into place.


Rachel had to admit she did miss Noah sometimes, he practically hadn't spoke to her in three weeks. Since Aaron had joined glee club he'd seemed so angry and pissed off all the time. But it was Noah's choice to act like that and she'd done nothing wrong at all except welcome someone extremely nice into the group. Plus Aaron was like a breath of fresh air, always coming up with new song ideas and he had a pretty good voice. Rachel didn't think he was leading man potential yet, but with her training he could be.

"Prom is coming up soon. You have any idea who you are going with?"

Rachel was taken out of her daydream by Aaron , "Oh I don't know. I haven't thought about it." she was lying.

"I think I am going to ask Santana!" Aaron whispered.

Rachel couldn't help but seem a little shocked, "Santana? Oh I see."

"Yeah we've been seeing each other for a while."

"That's great!" Rachel's hopes of Aaron asking her had now been dashed.

Aaron winked, "Why don't you go with Sam?" he suggested.

Rachel looked across the music room at Sam who was doing some impression to Mike Chang who laughed, "I don't think he'll go with me. Plus it isn't for a while yet."

"Everyone is practically a couple now. Maybe you and Mercedes could go as a couple of single girls you know?"

Rachel felt sad as she saw Quinn and Finn kiss in the corner, "Maybe."

"Rachel you need to stop pining over Finn for real. He's with Quinn, and what happened to independent women? I mean he has kind of played you and Quinn off each other for the last two years. You told me he didn't feel fireworks for you? That is cold man, you deserve a man that you give them to every time you look at them."

Rachel felt this surge of empowerment, "You are right Aaron. I need to move on. I am stuck in this Finn rut. I am getting out of it!"

Aaron smiled widely, "Go Rachel."

"Excuse me Aaron, I have a date to get for prom."

Rachel grabbed her bag and moved to the seat next to Sam, "Hey Sam."

Sam looked a little confused, but smiled regardless "Hey what's up? I was thinking about what you said about Avatar on Ice. That would be pretty awesome."

Rachel laughed, "I know right. So I was thinking were friends right?" she asked.

Sam nodded, "Yeah of course."

"Well how about we go to prom, as friends of course?" Rachel asked, she felt nervous but so what right?

Sam shrugged, "Okay that sounds like fun."

Rachel breathed a sigh of relief, "Cool I think it will be fun. I don't want some romantic date. I just want to go have fun with my friends. I've been held back by my feelings for to long!"

"Yeah I was going to ask you any ways."

Rachel couldn't help but feel a happy smile appear on her face.

"Okay guys quiet down!" Mr Schuester said entering the music room.

Rachel raised her hand, "Mr Schue I have been working on a song for a while, and think now I am finally ready to perform it. That okay?"

"Uh sure Rachel go ahead."

Rachel got up and headed over to the front of the class giving the band a signal, she looked at Finn and knew she was truly getting over him.

"She is a pyramid, but with him she's just a grain of sand. This love's loves to strong like mice and men, squeezing out the life that should be let in. She was a hurricane.. cane cane! But not she's just a gust of wind, She used to set the sails of a thousand ships. A force to be reckoned with."

Rachel sung her eyes constantly flicking to Finn who stared at her intensely.

"She could be a statue of liberty, she could be a Joan or arc. But he's scared at the light that's inside of her. So he keeps her in the dark. Oh she used to be a pearl.. Oh she used to rule the world, Ohh can't believe, she's become a shell of herself. Cause she used to be a pearl.."

Rachel glanced at Aaron who was smiling, then her eyes caught Noah who seemed to also be smiling but it was like he was trying to not let himself.

"She was unstoppable, moved fast just like an avalanche. But now she's stuck in deep cement, wishing that they'd never ever met. She could be a statue of liberty, she could be a joan of arc. But he's scared of the light that's inside of her, so he keeps her in the dark. Oh she used to be a pearl.. Oh she used to rule the world. Oh I can't believe she's become a shell of herself.. Cause she used to be a... Do you know that there's a way out, there's a way out, there's a way out! You don't have to be held down, be held down, be held down, be held down!"

Rachel took a breath taking in her audience, then smiled.

"Cause I used to be a shell, yeah I let him rule my world. Ohh yeah...But I woke up, and grew strong! And I can still go on. And no one can take my pearl... You don't have to be a shell, You're the one that rules you're world. You are strong and you'll learn that you can still go on! And you'll always be a pearl."

Rachel felt like she'd just let everything Finn related go, and gave everyone the hugest smile.

"She is unstoppable."

Everyone clapped as Rachel finished her song. She felt a sense of relief like a weight had just gone,

"Great Job Rachel." Mr Schuester said clapping.

"What was up with that performance in Glee club Rachel? That song made me look like I treated you like crap?"

Rachel stopped in the hall, "Finn the song was just about how I felt. Not all the lyrics need apply."

"Well way to go making me look like a complete ass."

"Why are you so mad Finn? I sung a song, it helped me. You are with Quinn now, and if singing a Katy Perry song helps me get back to the real Rachel then I don't regret singing it." Rachel told him sternly.

"Whatever Rachel, I just didn't like the fact that everyone was looking at me after that. So what you sing a song and get over me?" Finn asked with a sigh.

Rachel wanted to laugh but held herself back, "Are you annoyed that I sang a song that may have painted you in a bad light? Or more annoyed that I am finally moving on?" she asked.

Finn shrugged, like he didn't know the answer.

"No more games Finn, no more me sitting around feeling sorry for myself. No more daydreaming that you will walk through the door during Spanish class, walk over to my desk and sweep me up into your arms and tell everyone you love me. That is it now. We had our chance it didn't work. I'll always care about you, you were my first love."

Finn's face dropped a little, "That's it?"

Rachel sighed in pure frustration, "Finn! You broke up with me? You kissed Quinn and felt fireworks. I can't wait around living in hope that you'll realise you love me more."

"Fine. I'm glad you feel this way."

Rachel felt like the final nail had just been hammered into the Finchel coffin, "You are glad?"

"Yeah. I don't have to worry that I'm making you feel uncomfortable. Quinn and I can be ourselves?"

Rachel raised an eyebrow confused, "You weren't before?"

Finn pulled his backpack on his shoulder, "Is this to do with Aaron? Or Sam?"

"Finn this isn't about other guys. It's about Rachel Berry, the future Tony award winning Broadway star. I want to win Nationals, I want to achieve amazing things. And if a boy comes along a boy comes along, but I won't make the same mistakes again." Rachel spoke strongly, her voice didn't break once.

Finn nodded, "Okay. Well hope that works out for you Rachel."

"Finn if you ever cared for me at all you will not try and get into my head again or try and get back together. I want this thing we've been having over." Rachel never thought she'd say those words but she really meant it.

"Are you guys okay?"

Rachel turned to see Quinn behind her, she wondered how long she'd been there.

Finn smiled at Quinn, "Yeah everything is fine. Come on."

"Bye Finn." Rachel whispered.

Rachel stood watching for a moment as Finn walked off down the hall hand in hand with Quinn. That was that! She'd made up her mind. No more wasting time on Finn Hudson. It was done. Okay so she was hurting but heartbreak made for a more emotional performance right? Rachel carried on walking towards class with a smile.

"So I told Finn that there is no going back! I am Rachel Barbara Berry. I will not be controlled my my hormones. I was born to perform. Why would I have been blessed with such talents otherwise?"

Kurt Hummel rolled his eyes playfully, "Of course Rachel. I can imagine it was rather dramatic. I'm glad you had you're little epiphany though, about time."

Rachel shrugged and put down her fork, "Well that's the end of that. I'm sure some where along the line I can use this for material for a song. A Ballard about love not over coming the odds and just having to let go!"

Blaine laughed, "Oh Rachel you do make me laugh. You are a funny girl."

"She's not trying to be funny you know." Kurt said cheekily.

Mercedes started to butter her bread, "You know what Rachel we should rock up to prom all single ladies. Have a girls night out!"

Rachel shook her head, "Although that sounds like a marvellous plan. Sam and I are already attending together. Were going for the pink colour scheme. I am shocked he agreed but he says wearing a pink shirt is more masculine now a days." Rachel explained oblivious to Mercedes disappointment.

"Oh I see." Mercedes continued to eat her dinner.

"I'm sure you'll have plenty of offers. Guys don't think about prom till the last minute." Kurt said trying to reassure his friend.

Rachel suddenly realised Mercedes may have not been asked , "Oh yeah. I mean Sam didn't ask me, I asked him. Nothing wrong with being a modern woman and asking someone. The worst they could say was no right?"

"Hear, hear. I agree with Miss Berry over there. I mean are there any guys you like?"

"I don't know. There is this jock I was seeing for a while. But he got kind of mad because we never really saw each other. What with glee club, church spending time with my friends! He had practice and a job, so it didn't really work out!" Mercedes explained sadly.

Rachel hated to she her friend up-set, "Well I say ask him? In fact leave it to me!"

Mercedes frowned "No Rachel. Don't start getting up in my business."

"I want to inform you that along with severing ties with Finn Hudson, unless in regards to Glee club. I am going to do more for my friends. I may sometimes come across a little selfish, but I do have my friends interests at heart! Like Kurt coming back to McKinley!" Rachel smiled.

Kurt almost chocked on his pasta, "What would give you the idea I would want to come back?"

"You miss us. No offence Blaine but we miss him, and want him back!"

Kurt looked almost embarrassed over at Blaine, "I love being a Warbler." he insisted, "But I do miss you guys. But I will not put up with Karofsky's homophobic bullying. I can't live like that."

"Well we have a new addition to Glee club, Aaron Puckerman. I'm sure he could think of a way to dealing with David. Leave it with me."

"Well aren't you little mix fix it tonight!" Kurt joked,

Rachel grinned, she knew they had little faith in her solving these problems but she was going to try her hardest to help. Plus she missed Kurt tremendously. Twice a week they'd meet up for dinner and movies, like they were now. But Glee club also missed him, although Kurt was competition in the solo department. He was an amazing talent that even though she hated to admit it, had from time to time reduced her to tears during a performance.

"Oh look Puck and Lauren are here!" Mercedes said waving at her friends.

Rachel immediately caught Puck's eye, "Great!" she muttered.

"I thought you and Puck were friends? Bonded through your Jewish roots and love of Neil Diamond?" Kurt asked quietly across the breadstixs table.

"We were, but our friendship has dwindled lately. He doesn't approve of my friendship with Aaron!" Rachel whispered.

"Hey guys. How you doing?" Lauren asked stealing a bread stick off the table and munching it.

"Oh were fabulous. Date night?" Kurt asked.

"Puckerman owes me dinner! I bet him dinner I could beat Sam and Finn in a arm wrestle. I totally did." Lauren boasted proudly.

"Puck what is up with you? You seem kind of bummed." Mercedes asked.

Puck shrugged, "I'm cool. Surprised my brother isn't here, I know how amazing everyone thinks he is."

Rachel rolled her eyes, "He's working tonight. He helps out at the old peoples home down town on Fridays,"

Puck scoffed, "Are you serious?"

"Why would he lie? Noah lets not argue."

"Yeah Rachel's found herself. Let's not anger her again." Kurt joked.

Rachel could feel Noah's eyes burning into her, "Enjoy your evening." she muttered picking up the dessert menu and pretending to read it.

"Well you could cut the tension in here with a knife." Blaine said awkwardly.

"Come on, I'm starving." Puck said walking away from his friends followed by Lauren.

Kurt leaned in, "Am I missing something? Or do you and Noah Puckerman have some serious unresolved sexual tension going on?" Kurt asked amused.

Rachel threw down her menu is pure outrage , "Not at all!"

"I felt that to!" Blaine added.

"Girl you do kind of stare at each other all the time. There is definitely something going on. I'd be careful to, coz I saw Lauren face. She didn't look happy."

Rachel scrunched up her nose, "I don't care about Lauren! And I certainly don't care about Puckerman in the way you think I do."

"Come to think of it you and Puck always have had a thing. Didn't you guys even date before Finn and you?"

Rachel glanced over her shoulder at Noah, who was staring back at her, "Yeah we did."


Puck kicked open his brothers bedroom door, angrily and there Aaron laid on his bed reading FHM.

"Dude do you mind?" Aaron asked calmly.

Puck grabbed the magazine and threw it on the floor, "I don't call this reading material for the elderly!" he yelled fists clenching in pure anger.

"Oh you heard about my job huh?" Aaron sniggered.

"You are a liar man. You lie to Rachel constantly! Why the hell are you being such a ass hole?" Puck pulled Aaron up from his bed by his t shirt and slammed him against the wall.

Aaron kept a smile on his face at all times, "I'm not lying."

"Aaron don't make me go all Fight club on your ass. Just tell me what the deal is?"

"Are you mad? Oh man. You like Rachel Berry don't you!" Aaron mocked.

Puck slammed him against the wall harder, "Leave her alone, Whatever your game is just stop! Or I'll make you stop!" the anger was raging inside of him.

"Make my day Noah! I'll tell everyone how you viciously attacked me. They will believe me, everyone loves me man! I am a breath of fresh air for the Glee club remember?

Puck let go of his brother and stepped back, "I know you are up to something. I am going to make sure everyone knows that."

Aaron adjusted his t shirt and shrugged, "You do that Noah. Good luck trying to convince your buddies. Plus you're the one that has been in juvie not me. You are the bad ass remember."

Puck took a deep breath and left Aaron's bedroom, "Just wait!" he yelled as he grabbed his keys and jacket and headed out to his truck.

Something had to give, this couldn't carry on any more. Not only was he ready to beat his own brothers ass. He knew for a fact now that Aaron was playing some twisted game. And Rachel was involved, he didn't want her hurt any more. Why was he so concerned about Rachel? Puck sat in his truck the engine running, did he have feelings for Rachel?

Puck took a deep breath and pressed the doorbell. His body made him step side to side nervously, he never acted like this. His hands were shoved deep in his pockets.

"Noah what are you doing here?" Rachel asked as she opened the door.

"Look I know it's late okay. I just wanted to talk to you." Puck told her.

Rachel bit her lip for a moment, "Okay come in. My Dads won't be back for a while they went to catch a late showing of some movie." she opened the door and let Noah enter.

Puck followed Rachel into the den, he noticed she was wearing pink Pyjamas with penguins on. He smiled to himself she looked so cute.

"So what do you want to talk about?" Rachel asked perched on the edge of the couch.

Puck let out a deep breath, "Okay well here goes. I know you won't believe me Rachel but Aaron is up to something! And before you start rolling your eyes, just listen!"

"Fine go ahead." Rachel insisted.

"You know me Rachel, we've gone through stuff together. Were friends right? And I know I was a dick to you a couple of years back. But I apologized and have never treated you like that again right?"

Rachel nodded, "Yes. And I agree since we shared that moment in the bathroom you haven't thrown a slushie my way. And we have got a nice friendship with I really cherish."

Puck smiled, "Yeah I mean we've got to stick together were a couple of hot Jews right?" he bantered.

Rachel laughed now, "I know Noah. And I appreciate everything you have done for me. You stuck up for me when Jesse egged me. You told the whole of glee you liked me when Santana said everyone hated me. Not to mention the fact that every time I need someone to help me with a song, you are always there."

"Yeah I know." Puck said unsure, he'd never realised the little things he had done for her they all kind of came back to him.

"I mean I appreciate everything Noah. I just think in regards to Aaron you have got to give him a chance. Doesn't everyone deserve one?" Rachel asked.

"No not him. If you have ever trusted me you would know."

"I shouldn't tell you this, but he told me you have feelings for me Noah. Now I know-"

"What the hell? I never once told him I had feelings for you. I am with Lauren, god he's be filling your head with crap. That is why you have been acting strange around me." Puck yelled.

"You fell asleep with a picture beside you of me and while watching the notebook! Noah you can tell me if you have I will understand." Rachel said softly, she leaned forward and put a hand on Puck's knee.

Puck brushed her hand away, "Rachel Its bullshit. He wanted to cause a rift in our friendship and told you all this crap." Puck got to his feet and started to pace around the living room, "I don't have any feelings for you!"

"You don't?" Rachel asked.

Puck ran a hand over his Mohawk and took a seat near the window, "No!" he watched as Rachel looked at the floor embarrassed "None that I realised when Aaron told you that bunch of crap anyway."

Rachel looked up again, "So you do?"

Puck gave in fighting it, "I don't know. I am confused Rachel. You are the only chick I've ever done stuff for, enjoyed spending time with without making out. I like Lauren I really do, the chick is cool. But when she talks about her self I kind of zone out. When you talk it's weird, although its crap I take it all in."

"So what are you saying?" Rachel asked.

"Look I don't know. But Aaron lied to you. He is playing games. Just be careful." Puck got up and quickly headed to the front door, he needed to get out of there.

"Wait Noah!" Rachel followed him and grabbed his arm, "You can't suddenly have the revelation you have feelings for me then run out the door."

Puck threw his hands up, "What is there to say? I am with Lauren. You will forever be hooked on Hudson and you don't feel like that for me! Plus Finn is my boy."

"I.." Rachel paused, "Finn isn't a issue any more. I have let that ship sail. I just want to find myself before I let a guy into my life again."

Puck felt a knot in his stomach, "This is all out of control. Just pretend I never said a word. I mean Rachel Berry and Noah Puckerman? That would never work right?" he wanted her to kiss him, he was so close to her.

Rachel started up at him for a moment, "We tired it before. There is always someone else in our lives when it comes to us. I am attracted to you Noah, there is no denying our sexual chemistry would be off the chart."

Puck stared into her eyes, god she was beautiful "Kiss me then!" he said almost whispered.

"I can't kiss you.." Rachel said still staring up at him.

Puck took a breath and leaned forward pressing his lips against hers, god it felt right. He was waiting for her to pull away or push him. But Rachel didn't. Puck felt her hands run round his waist he his hands were around her face, his tongue brushing against hers. Man, it felt amazing kissing Rachel! He had all kinds of things going on in his stomach like it was doing frigging flips. Puck could smell her, she always smelt good. The same fragrance he caught a whiff off when she'd brush by him during a performance, or in the halls. He opened his eyes a little and saw hers were shut firmly, her expression was like she was concentrating hard. Puck shut his eyes again, he knew she was probably trying her hardest to give him the perfect kiss, she'd bit him once or twice during their previous make out sessions. The thing was this was perfect she didn't have to try. It had always been right.

Rachel suddenly pulled away moving her hands onto Puck's chest, "Wait! Noah I don't want to be the girl that breaks up a relationship. You are with Lauren. And I am certainly not ready for this."

Puck sighed licking his lips which were slightly wet, "I'm sorry. I just needed to see something."

"Well there is nothing to see right? It wasn't some epic kiss. Although it was good, it wasn't a contender for best kiss at the MTV movie awards was it?"

Puck stepped back opening the door, "Whatever Rachel. Just pretend this never happened." he turned and walked out the door.

"Puckerman wait.. we can talk!"

Puck continued to walk, he'd just figured out all along it's been Rachel and she felt nothing? He wasn't sticking around for a pity party. That was for sure.

"Puckerman you didn't call me last night? What happened to movie night and Wendy's?"

Puck turned to Lauren, "I'm sorry. I kissed Rachel." he watched as Lauren s eyebrows narrowed.

"What? You kissed Berry? When and why?"

"Look it wasn't her fault, I kissed her. I was in this weird place my head was all crazy. I'd had like three bud lights and walked by these kids smoking pot in the park!"

Lauren slammed her locker shut, "I should smack your lying, cheating ass around this hallway."

Puck braced himself for impact, "I'm sorry." he pleaded covering her face with his hand.

"I'm not though, you don't have to flinch!" Lauren told him, "Were over you know. I am not forgiving any guy that cheats on my ass. I am not one of those woman."

"I figured that." Puck said with a sad sigh, he liked Lauren and did feel honestly bad about the kiss with Rachel.

"I am sorry, it wasn't supposed to happen."

Lauren shook her head and started to walk down the hallway, "Just stay out of my way."

Puck watched her march down the hall, but he didn't want to follow her. It was the right thing, they didn't belong together. Lauren had been a distraction someone to take his mind away from Rachel. Puck couldn't lie he'd had a blast, but he wasn't himself with Lauren and let her boss him around way to much.

"Puck trouble in paradise?" Santana asked with a smirk as she passed him by.

Puck started to walk with the brunette, "Lauren and I are done. So have fun with that."

"I figured. I never saw why you'd be into Jubba the hut anyway. You have such weird taste in women, I mean I remember when you dated Rachel as well? You like jacked up hobbit's or something? Must run in the family."

Puck couldn't believe what he was hearing, "Why are you such a bitch? I mean when you and I were doing it I never really noticed that much because you have a great ass. But seriously you are a bitch."

Santana laughed falsely, "You're brother likes it!"

"Listen I know you might think Aaron is frigging fantastic and all. But I am even going to tell you. Aaron is a loser stay away."

Santana carried on walking, "Whatever. Don't hate because Aaron is all up in the popularity stakes."

Puck laughed to himself, Santana Lopez may have met her match with Aaron Puckerman.


"Where is Lauren?" Mr Schuester asked the Glee club.

"Her and Puckerman broke up. She's probably consoling herself at the snack machine." Santana smirked.

Aaron held back the urge to smile and looked over at his brother who sat over the far side of the choir room alone. Santana had already informed him of the Lauren and Puck brake up. Aaron was shocked he didn't even have to do anything drastic to end that one. Although he wondered what had caused Lauren to angrily storm through the halls.

"You broke up?" Mercedes questioned.

Puck shrugged, "Yeah" he muttered.

"Well I'm sure she has a valid reason for not being here." Mr Schuester said turning to sort out some sheet music.

"No I'm here." Lauren said entering the room.

Aaron could sense the tension straight away Lauren looked like a woman on a mission, he noticed Rachel tense up straight away. This concerned Aaron, why would Rachel be worried?

"I would like to announce I am quitting Glee club."

"Lauren why? Were so close to Nationals?" Mr Schuester said concerned.

Lauren smiled, "I know sucks huh. But I am joining the school paper. Jacob offered me a very interesting position on the paper."

Yes! Jacob had done what Aaron had asked, well bribed him to do.

"What about us? Were are your friends? You can't let us down?" Tina asked.

Lauren raised her hand and pointed at Rachel, "Blame the home wrecker over there!"

"Okay guys enough. Lauren I'm sorry you are leaving. We'll miss you." Mr Schue seemed to guide Lauren towards the door.

"Wait what has Rachel done?" Brittany asked as confused as ever.

"Kissed my man. Well my ex."

Aaron gasped along with the rest of the club, he hadn't planned this. He felt his stomach drop!

"I object, Lauren he kissed me!" Rachel said standing up defensively with her hands on her hips.

"Whatever Berry. Stay out of my way whore bag!"

"Wait a minute okay Rachel you kissed me back!" Puck yelled.

"Who cares we have twelve people still. No big deal, she couldn't really sing anyway." Santana said.

Aaron frowned, "Man poor Lauren!" he didn't care about Lauren but he was pissed and wanted to cause trouble.

"Shut up man! You don't need to get involved."

Aaron got to his feet, "You are an ass Puck. You went with Quinn behind Finns back before. Then Rachel, now you went behind Laurens back again? That is harsh. Poor Rachel you know she's vulnerable right now."

"Okay everyone calm down!"

"That's why you told me what you did in the hall huh?" Finn asked turning to Rachel.

Quinn glared at her boyfriend, "What am I missing here?"

"No, I said that before Noah kissed me." Rachel insisted.

"So were not going to prom?" Sam asked turning to Rachel.

"Of course. It was nothing with Puck. Tell him Puckerman!" Rachel insisted looking rather flustered.

Aaron knew she was lying, he could spot a liar! He was one of the best. Aaron watched as Puck sat back in his seat and slumped down.

"It was a stupid meaningless kiss!" Puck said clenching his fist.

Another lie, Aaron thought. For the first time Aaron didn't feel in control. He should be loving this, but all he could think was Puck kissed Rachel.

"Great so some meaningless kiss means we loose a glee club member. Nice one Puck!" Mercedes said disappointed almost.

"Guys enough!" Mr Schue yelled louder this time "We have lost Lauren but we still meet requirements and that is all that matters right now. God you guys are always bickering at the moment!"

"Mr Schue were hormonal teenagers. What to you expect?" Aaron asked.

"Well so are me and Mike but we aren't drama every five minutes." Tina told her friends.

Mr Schuester shook his head in horror, "Were not a team right now. I will not be taking us to New York unless I feel were ready. And that we are one unit. Everyone is just arguing, bickering and bitching! I am throwing out this weeks assignment. I want you all to work on a group number, I want each of you to have a solo in it and it has to be a song about friendship!"

Aaron heard groans around the choir room, this was perfect. If he dropped out at the last minute they would be one short to perform. But he couldn't take the risk of them finding someone to replace him like he heard they did at sectionals when Sue tried to sabotage them before. Having the group work together was going to be great, a chance for Aaron to break a few friendships and he was going to enjoy it. He was pissed, Rachel wasn't supposed to kiss Puck. He felt hurt, he was determined more than ever to hurt Noah now.

"Well I called this Glee club meeting to discuss song choices for our group number." Rachel stood in front of New directions "I have selected a few song you may like. Dionne Warwick, That's what friends are for?"

"That song is cheesy Rachel."

Rachel rolled her eyes, "Well anyone have any ideas? I want to start working on this asap. The sooner we get this done the soon Mr Schue will see we are ready for Nationals and we can get back on track."

"Well what about That Beatles song? I get by with a little help from my friends. I mean the Beatles are far from uncool man. Think its a pretty awesome song. Mr Schue would love it." Aaron had been googling last night to find a song he thought the group would go for.

"That song is pretty amazing. Defiantly a Glee club type song!" Artie agreed.

Santana stood up, "Okay so we have the song lets pick who sings what and get out of here. I got a prom dress fitting tonight!"

"Yeah and Artie and I are going to watch the new Disney movie."

Aaron watched as Santana held back a bitchy remark, "Okay well Brittany and Mike pretty much can sort the moves. We'll all take a couple of lines each and put out a slamming performance right! Rachel you are obviously going to know who should sing what?"

"Wait since when have you been the leader of this group?" Finn asked standing up annoyed.

"Hey man, I'm not trying to step on any ones toes. Just haven't seen you suggesting anything lately?" Aaron said trying to be as innocent as possible.

"Finn sit down!" Quinn insisted tugging on Finns sweater.

Finn shook his head, "No way. Look I've sat back and let you seem like the good guy. But the way you are with Rachel I know you are up to something. Just like that Jesse kid!"

"Wait a guy can't be nice to Rachel what's up with that?" Aaron asked, this was gold.

Quinn grabbed her purse and pulled it over her shoulder, "Always comes back to Rachel huh?" she said hurt marching out of the choir room.

"Quinn wait.." Finn pleaded, "You know I'm the leader of this group. And I only have every ones best interests at heart. I think Puck is right about you!"

"About time." Puck muttered from his seat.

Rachel shook her head, "Finn go after Quinn!" she insisted, "Everything Aaron has suggested for New directions has been brilliant. Don't you think if he wanted to harm our club he would have already?"

Finn stood dumbfounded for a moment, "Whatever Rachel, maybe you need to make up your mind. Sam, Aaron and Puck? Who do you like?" he ran out of the choir room.

"Sam is just a friend as is Aaron!" Rachel insisted throwing up her hands.

"Puck isn't?" Santana asked with a mischievous grin?

"Yes he is. All this drama is to much even for me." Rachel sighed.

Puck got up from his seat, "Well looks like rehearsal is over!" he muttered glancing at Rachel before he walked out of the room.

Aaron felt his brothers arm barge past his aggressively but let it go as people were watching, "I was only trying to help!"

"It's okay honey. Let's go. Think were done here for today." Santana said, she could really be a actress one day.

Aaron saw as Rachel looked away quickly as Santana linking arms with him.

"Well this was a waste of time." Mercedes commented as she left.

Aaron smiled as he walked down the hall. Finn had obviously heard Aaron talking to Sam in the locker room about Finn's leadership qualities like Aaron had hoped.

"What are you smiling about?" Santana asked.

Aaron shrugged, "Nothing."


Rachel stared out of the window as Mercedes drove her home, they only lived like a couple of blocks apart. Rachel had no interest in driving at all, you didn't need to know how to drive when you were destined to live in NYC.

"So he asked me to Prom you know. Did you have anything to do with it?"

Rachel smiled, "No. I simply may have asked him if he had a date and he said no so I informed him you didn't either. He likes you I could tell."

"Well whatever you did thank you. I am so excited, I got to go dress shopping this weekend, Kurt is coming. You better come alone as well. You need our help."

Rachel sighed and stared out of the passenger window again, "I don't think I am going to go. I have so many guy issues right now it's unreal."

"Oh come on it isn't that bad. You're going with Sam who is your friend right? Finn and you are finished for good so that shouldn't be an issue. Aaron and you are friends right? The only issue is Puck, and well you said the kiss meant nothing so it shouldn't be anything."

Rachel bit her lip, she wished it was that simple.

"Unless of course you lied and the Puck kiss did mean something?" Mercedes asked curious.

Rachel gave a over dramatic sigh, "Oh Mercedes I don't know. When we kissed it felt so right. Then I think of Aaron and our blossoming friendship and I know they don't get along. I also know Puck is a player, he's been through half the female population at the school. No offence Mercedes."

"Look girl, I know Puck has a charm that woman can easily fall for. You and he have been together before, it didn't work. Plus we all know he can't keep that in his pants."

"Well I had seen some serious growth in him since he first joined glee, but I don't know. Maybe he just wants me because Aaron and I are close." Rachel asked, she needed some advice.

"Probably. My advice is just stay the hell out of it. Brothers is not something you want to get in between especially if they both like you."

Rachel nodded she was right, "Well Nationals is soon and I just need to focus on that. New directions are falling apart right now. I am shocked at the behaviour of everyone."

"Well look at all the great bands, they have always broken up due to differences. Bound to happen when a group of talented people are put together."

"We will get it together we always do.

Rachel smiled hopefully, "I guess." she saw her house appear, "I'll see you for our girlie shopping spree tomorrow. I am so excited." she gushed, she'd never been on one before.

"I'll pick you up early. Girl were going to get our shop on!"

Rachel hoped happily out of the car, "Bye."

Rachel sat on her bed and stared down at the cell phone in her hand, Puck's number was on the screen but it was taking a lot of effort to try and push the call button. She wanted to speak to him and inform him that everything had to go back to normal for the sake of the Glee club. Rachel took a last deep breath and pressed call.

"What's up?"

"Hello Noah It's Rachel." she said nervously.

"I gathered from the call ID."

Rachel felt a tinge of stupidity, "Of course. So Noah what are you doing?"

"Playing C.O.D with Artie, Mikes also playing but he just playing on-line. Artie says Hi."

"Uh okay." Rachel lost him at C.O.D, "Am I interrupting?"

Puck paused, "No it's cool babe what's up?" he asked as if there was no issue between them at all.

"Well about what happened I just wanted to say-"

"Look it's done right? Were friends Rachel that is it. You don't need to be calling me up stressing, were all good."

Rachel frowned this was a sudden change in Puck's behaviour, "Are you okay Puckerman you seem a little strange?"

"I am just being me. I a, tired of moping around letting chicks walk all over me. I am Noah bad ass Puckerman. Back in full force! So don't concern yourself with us, were buddies."

Rachel didn't feel relived, "Oh Okay then. Well I better run, I'm going shopping at the Mall for prom dresses with the girls."

"Ah cool. Anyway I'm about to get my ass blown apart on here."

"Okay see you Monday I guess."

"Yeah cool. Bye."

The line went dead before Rachel could even return the goodbye, she couldn't believe the way Noah was acting. He hadn't been that guy in a while. And she seriously hoped he wouldn't get back into his old ways of trouble with the cops and dating more than one girl at once. Well truthfully she couldn't stand the thought of him dating anyone. Rachel heard the doorbell and figured it must be Mercedes a little early. She skipped down the stairs.

"Quinn!" Rachel was shocked as she saw her standing on her porch.

Quinn didn't raise a smile, "Just wanted to let you know from me. Finn and I are over, so you can go ahead and get your lame couple calenders printed off. Put that tacky Finn necklace back on and walk around like you just won the lottery again!"

Rachel's jaw fell open a little, "Quinn I'm sorry!"

"Really? Rachel you've wanted Finn since freshman year. You walk around like a love sick puppy after him. You play so many games and would do anything to be with him, don't make out you are not happy!"

"I don't want Finn." Rachel said truthfully, "I care about him sure. But Quinn I', not that girl that was going to wait around for him. I've moved on, the Finchel years are over."

Quinn's lip trembled a little, "Why are you lying!" she yelled angrily.

Rachel closed the front door and wondered out onto the porch, "I'm sorry Quinn. But I promise you on Barbara, I have no interest in Finn Hudson."

Quinn wiped a tear from her cheek with the back of her hand, "I broke up with him you know. He still loves you Rachel."

Although this news would have been music to her ears a few months ago, Rachel was over it now. It was a big puddle of drama and she wasn't interested at all.

"He may love me, but I don't him. Well not like that." Rachel insisted taking a seat on the steps.

Quinn followed and sat beside her, "What's changed then?"

"I realised how pathetic I looked. And that if a guy really loved me he wouldn't treat me how Finn has. He would have seen fireworks, he would have done anything to be with me. Finn didn't." Rachel told her.

"I guess Finn didn't know what he wanted. Kind of kept us both hanging."

"Yeah. I mean I don't think he means any harm to us. He's a seventeen year old boy, who is feeling all kinds of stuff. I think he tried to do the best by us but screwed up!" Rachel explained.

Quinn patted her wet cheeks with a tissue, "I just want someone to care about me. I want the real thing."

Rachel felt her pain, she wanted that as well "Quinn you are beautiful and could have any guy you want. You need to stop thinking about status and how being with someone makes you look. Just be with the guy that truly makes you happy. Makes you laugh, gives you the butterflies and fireworks. You will find him."

"What is going on here?" Quinn asked laughing, "You giving me decent advice. I'm sorry Rachel, I just am upset and wanted to place the blame and frustration somewhere."

"That's okay. Hey Mercedes is coming to get me any minute with Kurt. Were going prom shopping, come! Shopping always makes a girl feel better right?" Rachel asked with a caring smile.

Quinn shrugged "I don't have a date any more."

"Well Sam and I are going as friends, come with us if you want!"

Quinn smiled, "Might be a little soon for us to start hanging out like BFF's. I'll think about it. And sure shopping sounds better than listening to my mother go on about how lovely Finn is and how she's sure we'll work it out."

Rachel giggled, "Sometimes I'm glad I have to gay Dad's."

"Can't imagine the boy advice they give you.. then again it probably explains a lot." Quinn laughed.

"What's this?" Kurt yelled as the car pulled up out front.

Rachel jumped up, "We have another addition to our shopping party!" she took Quinns hand and pulled her to her feet.

"Another dress to pick! How fabulous! Now come on, I hear shoes calling us!" Kurt said happily.

Rachel exchanged a 'were cool' look with Quinn and they got into the car. They were far from best friends, but they seemed to have put a lot of crap behind them.

"I want to wear a pink dress. I want to feel like a girl, pretty you know?"

Kurt smiled back at Rachel, "I know. Pretty in pink. So you and Quinn? What is going on there. You've hardly been best friends?" he asked.

Rachel shrugged as she slipped into a pink dress, "She came by to inform me I was welcome to Finn" she turned so Kurt could zip her up, "She broke up with him."
Kurt gasped, "Oh my. The romance is over huh? So you going to make a move?

"Nope. Finn and I are over. Why doesn't anyone believe me?" Rachel asked as she turned back round and faced the mirror and smiled at her reflection, she liked.

"Stunning. That is the one. And I believe you, I know you have moved on from Finn."

Rachel laughed, "Moved on?" she was confused.

"Oh Rachel denial is one of the first signs. You are head over in heels crazy for Noah Puckerman."

Rachel's jaw almost hit the dressing room floor, "Kurt I don't know what you mean."

"Fine next time you see him I want you to really look at him and tell me after if you don't feel anything!" Kurt insisted, "Were getting this dress."

Rachel slipped the dress down her body and handed it to Kurt, "I think you are the first boy ever to see me in bra and panties." she giggled.

"And it's so wasted on me." Kurt sighed putting the dress on the hanger, "I saw some shoes as well. Would go perfectly."

"Have you ever thought about doing something in the fashion world when you graduate?" Rachel asked, she also was trying to avoid any further discussion of Noah.

Kurt drew back the curtain and lead the was toward the till, "I do love fashion, and have a flare for it I guess. Trying to make me quit the music business Rachel? To much competition for you?" he teased.

Rachel laughed, "Not at all." she placed her hair band in her hair carefully.

"So shall we get some lunch?" Kurt asked as he and Rachel rejoined the other girls.

Mercedes looked like the cat that had got the cream, "Yeah sure."

"What are you so happy about?" Quinn asked seeing Mercedes joyfulness.

"I just got a text from Derek, he said no matter what I am wearing I'll look beautiful." Mercedes told them.

Rachel grinned, "That is so sweet."

"I am anti guys right now. Pass me a sick bucket!" Quinn said.

"I'm sorry he just really makes me smile." Mercedes beamed.

Rachel noticed Mike Chang first, then Sam's Bieber hair.. then lastly Noah who was wheeling Artie. What were they doing at the Mall? Thought they were playing DOD or whatever it was called all day.

"Well hello ladies, Kurt!" Sam smiled.

"Gentlemen, what are you guys doing here?"

Puck stepped forward quickly, "I needed to pick up another controller for my PS3."

"Were about to get some food, you guys want to join?" Mercedes asked.

"I am starving. I want a burger!" Sam said linking arms with Mercedes.

"I want tacos." Artie said now wheeling himself toward the food court.

Kurt winked at Rachel, "What do you want Rachel?" he asked with a mischievous smile.

Rachel decided to do what Kurt has suggested, as she walked behind Noah she stared at him. He was talking to Quinn about something. He kept turning his head slightly and catching her eye though, did she like him? Rachel watched as he laughed at some impression Sam was now doing. She loved his laugh, Rachel covered her mouth with her hand. Oh my goodness, she was head over heels for Noah. The hungry feeling left Rachel's stomach and it was filled with butterflies. How had this happened.


Can't wait for you guys to read the next chapter. I think this one is a little weak. But had to get certian things in. Have the next already written will post in next few days. Thanks for reading :)