ABSOLUTION
Senior prom was a high school rite of passage. It was something teenagers looked forward to before even entering into high school. Prom was something that after four years of drama, embarrassment, boredom, headaches, and immaturity, was rightfully earned. And sure, there was graduation which actually did need to be earned, but that was just a boring ceremony that required wearing really weird robes and listening to smart students that you've never even met talk for an hour or two. Prom was a dance that led to all-night parties at several different houses. It was sacred. Finn never really got any of that, but he knew prom was always supposed to be super awesome.
This year's prom was much like last year's; the only difference was it took place a week after junior prom. It was still in the gym so McKinley could save money. Glee had to perform again so McKinley could save money. By the school's standards, nothing had changed. It was McKinley's students that were planning on this night to be bigger and better. Through clothes, arrivals, dates, et cetera, this year was supposed to double everything that happened last year. This was what everyone had been waiting for. Last year had only been the warm up. Finn wasn't exactly as excited as everyone else was.
At the start of this year, his idea for prom was completely different than what it was turning out to be. He was supposed to take Rachel, most likely with Kurt and Blaine, in Kurt's car. Rachel would tell him what color his bowtie should be and what type of corsage he should buy her. Then they'd have a quick dinner at Breadstix, have a great time at prom, and cut out early to maybe have sex for the first time like couples do in the movies. It would have been great, and Finn wanted that prom. Not the one he was stuck with. So really, he didn't see the problem in trying to combine the two. It could be the just-right porridge.
"Hey, Rach." Finn grinned as Rachel turned from her locker to acknowledge him. She shut her locker's door to give him a proper greeting.
"Hello, Finn. Did you not get Jesse's message?" She wouldn't put it past Jesse to exclude Finn even if it would foolishly put their Nationals preparation in jeopardy.
"No, I was heading there now. I just wanted to ask you something."
"Okay."
"Right, so I know we're not together anymore because you're leaving and stuff, but prom is this weekend and we're still friends and I was kinda hoping you wanted to go with me. As friends."
She frowned. "Finn, I'm not sure that'd be the best idea."
"Hear me out?" He questioned, and she nodded because she could at least give him that much. "Prom is a really big deal in high school. That and graduation are what everyone waits for. It's supposed to be special. Going with you would make it special. And it's not because I'm trying to get you back or anything. It wouldn't be a date or romantic or anything like that. But I still care about you, Rachel, and after we graduate, summer will go by super-fast like it always does and you won't be here anymore. We won't see each other. So maybe this could be like a last hooray or whatever it's called."
"Finn…" She trailed off. This was unexpected and difficult. She didn't want to hurt his feelings or shun his friendship, but this was Finn. And Finn could easily misinterpret a situation and get the wrong idea. On the other hand, she did respect and agree with his opinion on how prom should be something memorable. Going with her first real crush and love would make the night more significant than attending alone even if it held no actual meaning. Besides, given her choice of McKinley students, the only person she'd willingly choose to go to prom with at the moment wasn't exactly an option. What they needed was an orgy of a date for all the singles in glee, that way she could—wait. "What would you say to a group date?" She quickly looked up at him again.
"Um, what?"
"Well I'm sorry Finn, but we have a history. Despite our relationship being in the past, going to prom with my ex-boyfriend even as friends doesn't sit well with me."
He frowned. "You went with Jesse last year."
"Yes, but on a group date. Do you see?"
"Alright." He said slowly. He really just wanted to take Rachel, but this was cool too he supposes. "So who did you want to take with us?"
She smiled brightly. "Quinn."
"Wait." Finn frowned again. "You don't want to go with me alone because we used to date and that would be awkward, but you're fine with my other ex-girlfriend coming with us? Doesn't that just make everything more complicated?"
"Hush." She sent him a reassuring smile. He was still hesitant not to mention confused as she linked arms with him and began dragging him to the auditorium for Jesse's mid-day rehearsals.
This worked out perfectly. It was always fun getting what she wanted. Finn's initially poor idea gave Rachel an opening for both a storybook prom experience and a way to push her ever-growing relationship with Quinn along. She had been trying to do this (respectively so) for the remainder of the last week. Last Monday, Rachel kept to her word and found Quinn for lunch. Instead of the cafeteria, Rachel requested a change of scenery and took Quinn to her old stomping grounds so to speak. The pair spent the period in the auditorium in which Rachel presented her case for New York and informed Quinn of Monday's earlier discoveries. She'd like to think it went well. They did spend a comfortable hour together after all. Plus, as Tuesday liked to prove, Rachel did right by initiating the Monday meeting.
As of Tuesday, Jesse and Quinn were New York bound. Jesse liked to take all of the credit, claiming he spent Monday after school arguing with Quinn until she grew some type of a backbone. Rachel didn't agree with this because she was obviously what changed Quinn's mind. Quinn informed them both that it was ultimately her decision and that they were both influences. She was clearly only saying this to pacify Jesse as he was her best friend. Nevertheless, this all meant something to look forward to and to prepare for. It was time to take some baby steps. Or at least Rachel thought so. She had no desire to rush Quinn, but patience wasn't something she carried in bulk. And really, how long does it take for someone to embark on a relationship?
"Now before we talk to Quinn about this, I think we should come up with some sort of a plan to ensure that she agrees." Rachel walked with Finn up onto the auditorium stage. Most of the club was standing around chatting, so Rachel was pleased that this exchange wasn't at all conspicuous.
"But I don't like being a part of your plans." He complained. "And if Quinn doesn't want to come, I really don't think we should have to make her."
"Finn." She said sternly, straightening him up. "She'll want to come. If we don't pressure her and you ask nicely, she'll want to come."
"Why do I need to ask? This was your idea."
"You need to ask because it needs to look like it was your idea. She'll agree if she thinks it's what you want." This, of course, wasn't the whole truth, but if Rachel were the one to ask Quinn, nothing would be accomplished. "Now be a gentleman."
Finn rolled his eyes but still led them over to his other ex anyway. This was so close to not being worth having a slightly better prom. "Hey, Quinn."
"Uh…hi."
"We were just-" He paused at the tiny elbow connecting with his oblique. "I was just wondering if you wanted to come to prom with us. On like a triple date or something."
Quinn ignored the lumbering boy and looked over to Rachel, using that eyebrow skill she has. "Triple date?"
Rachel stepped in front of a now putout Finn because why exactly did she need him to do this again? "Yes. Finn couldn't find a date of his own so he asked me to accompany him as a friend. I was hesitant until I realized that this was the perfect opportunity for us to go together. O-on a group date, I mean. As a package."
"Um…I kind of already forced Jesse into chaperoning. We were just going to come here together."
"Oh. Well, we tried." Finn shrugged. He went ignored.
"You can bring Jesse along." Rachel continued. "Even if it looks wildly inappropriate for a faculty member to be a arriving to prom with a student, I'm sure Jesse wouldn't be opposed. After all, he was up for the task last year."
Quinn sighed. "Rachel-"
"If it'll make you feel more comfortable, I'm sure I can coerce Sam and Mercedes into joining us again. They were pleasant to attend with last year."
Quinn frowned skeptically. "And while we're at it, let's just invite Puck and Lauren along so we can go with all of our exes."
"I see your point. Does your grievance mean you're saying yes?" She grinned. "It'll be fun. And it'll mean something compared to other possible setups."
"You're not going to let me say no are you?"
Rachel shook her head, smiling playfully. "Nope. The four of us are all friends. We'll have a perfect night." Quinn shot her a look. "Okay, so Finn and Jesse aren't friends, but that's not my concern."
"Uh, it's kinda mine." Finn regained their attention.
"Relax, Finn. Really, that much stress at our age is not healthy." Rachel advised before Jesse's voice was cutting through all of them.
"Glad to see you've all made it here intact." He addressed his club on stage. "We don't have a lot of time to waste so if you want to get out of here at a normal time, I suggest we just get started. I wanted to run through 'Mr. Blue Sky' again. We're still having some choreography problems during the second verse. Places."
New Directions went to take their positions without any argument, well, much of an argument.
Jesse caught up to Quinn's pace easily. "What was that about?"
"Um…" She glanced in Rachel's general direction before turning back to him. "We have prom dates." Quinn left him there with a shrug before finally getting over to where she was supposed to be.
Jesse wasn't sure what that meant, but he'd worry about that later. Right now, rehearsals were what he had to worry about. Not that he was worried. New Directions had actually been rather dedicated (for them) to perfecting their numbers. He was confident where they stood, but they left for Nationals next week, and there was always room for improvement. So Jesse had been scheduling extended practices during the late afternoon class periods. None of the senior teachers made a fuss and only occasionally did a member here or there have to attend their classes for a test or two. Frankly, the gleeks all preferred this setup because they no longer had to stay after school for practice and instead just went home at a normal time.
That day's rehearsal ended up being fairly tame. They continued to work through all their tiny kinks, hopefully getting better with every run through. To Jesse's chagrin, the majority of the club was more in tuned to talking about prom. Jesse didn't care about anyone's hopes and dreams for this Saturday night nor was he exactly thrilled that New Directions got stuck being that night's live entertainment. He had already spoken with Rachel about monitoring her voice which, granted, was probably unnecessary, but he couldn't lose their entire base of talent due to a glorified school dance. The only bright side was that he stopped having to hear New Directions complain about never having another free day to perform the songs of their choice. Prom at least provided that much.
"I kinda wish I was a gambling man because I would really consider putting money down on New Directions to take Nationals." Blaine joked as he and Kurt headed out of McKinley for the day once rehearsals ended.
"Well you could always be a rambling man." Kurt remarked sarcastically.
Blaine inspected the other boy after this statement. "I hope you're referring to me singing the song because though I'm pretty sure I wasn't born in the back of a Greyhound bus, I could still make it work. Just like I also know I'd prefer being stationary in New York with you next year."
"Just pretty sure? I'd say these facts are rather important to know." Kurt joked.
"If memory serves, it definitely wasn't a Greyhound. Though, it might have been an Amtrak train."
Kurt waited a few moments and returned to the less of a laughing matter that Blaine brought back to light. "I know you're thinking of…drifting all over to start up a career in music, Blaine. You don't need to pretend otherwise. I told you, I'm fine with it."
"And like I said, I'd prefer to go with you."
"Exactly. Prefer. That doesn't mean that you're completely disregarding the other option."
"It's a really good opportunity. Of course I'm thinking about it. You go to places like New York for chances like this."
"I understand it, I do. Even if a recorder producer wanting to put together and manage a band sounds a little too good to be true, I get the excitement. I wasn't trying to start an argument."
"We're not arguing."
Kurt felt like adding on a yet to that statement but then the argument would start for sure. "Let's just talk prom." He changed the subject.
Blaine recognized this and would rather actually finish a discussion about what he wanted to do next year, but for Kurt, he'd wait until after prom. "Fine. Are you still going to ignore the Karofsky-warning?"
Kurt rolled his eyes, having not been the first time Blaine has brought this up. "I'm not ignoring it, but we'll be in a gym full of students and teachers. I have no doubt we'll hear some less than attractive phrases, but that wouldn't be any different from every other day here."
"Just promise me you won't go anywhere by yourself on Saturday."
"Blaine, you're being paranoid. Not even the blockheads of this school would be that dumb."
"Yeah, I thought the same thing once. Not to mention, I think you're forgetting about last year. There was a reason why we've gone to a total of two schools together."
"And that reason is now giving us helpful warnings." Kurt pointed out. "I'll be keeping my eyes peeled at all angles during prom night, believe me, but I'm also going to at least try to have a good time. We have three things in our high school lives yet to look forward to. I'm not going to let one of them be ruined just because other people don't want us to enjoy ourselves."
Blaine sighed, following after his boyfriend. He really hoped Kurt at least tried to take his concerns to heart. McKinley wasn't something to observe blindly.
The rest of New Directions' week was spent finalizing their prom-prep. Some other stuff happened too, they were pretty sure, it's just no one knew what it was. The guys, who weren't Kurt and could afford it, went around finding suitable shops to rent their tuxes from. Kurt, meanwhile, once again finished designing his own and shopping with some of the girls for their dresses. Sam, on the other hand, made do with what he had and picked out a new shirt and tie to go with the tux he wore last year. He was fine with this, though. Prom was a big deal for him and Mercedes. It was kind of an anniversary thing.
As it was planned, when prom night finally rolled around, Puck and Lauren picked up the single-and-ready-to-mingle Artie, and the trio went together as friends more than anything given Puck and Lauren's waning relationship. Mike and Tina doubled up with Sam and Mercedes, and seeing as the two couples were as close to normal as the glee club would ever get, the four started off their night with a calm dinner at Breadstix. Blaine and Kurt, however, were anything but calm. Kurt was spending the early evening trying to perfect the night while Blaine tried to lighten the mood to the level of what a prom should be. Brittany and Santana would be arriving together, but at the moment, they were in a fight and because of their glee-girlfriend-only rule, technically weren't really going with each other.
Jesse had arrived at Fabray Manor hours ago and spent the time getting dressed and chatting breezily with Judy over what happened most recently on Desperate Housewives. Or more specifically, what had been going on with Gaby and Bree. (The other characters were decidedly useless.) Mostly, he just had the pleasure of waiting for his two dates and Finn to be ready. Finn had the honor of picking up one of Jesse's dates and bringing her to him. After a brief stay at the Berrys', Finn finally brought Rachel over to Quinn's home. Now the three were just waiting for Quinn to finishing doing whatever it was Quinn was doing because it really shouldn't take someone that long to put on their prom outfit.
It didn't. Quinn had been dressed and ready to go for some time, but whereas Rachel Berry always knew how to make a good exit, Quinn's specialty was executing the perfect entrance. So she sat upstairs in her room and prepared for that moment amongst other things. In a short while from now, she'll be at her senior prom with Rachel. And yes, Jesse and Finn would be there too, but they didn't count. In all honesty, she was pretty sure she began having anxiety attacks over this about an hour ago now. She didn't even know how that worked, and things just seemed to be happening too quickly. Not too long ago, she and Rachel were coming to a mature and safe agreement, and now Quinn was going to New York, and they were going to prom. And it wasn't that Quinn didn't want those things exactly, but having it all happen right on top of each other was a bit suffocating.
Still, this was her prom. Once upon a time it was to be a monumental occasion in her life. For various reasons, it was a night she had dreamt about since childhood. According to most clichés and untested statistics, the majority of little girls spent their time envisioning their future wedding. Not Quinn. She always left that job to her parents. Prom was hers. Given all of these facts, she was going to spend this night as a confident-Quinn. She was going to find the nerve to somehow be that girl. As she knew, pretending to have confidence could get you through anything. And she really needed to tap into that skill tonight.
"These are awesome, Mrs. Fabray." A floor below Quinn's thoughts, Finn continued stuffing his face with the appetizers Mrs. Fabray had set out for them.
"Yes, Judy." Jesse agreed. "I must say with every batch of a recipe you make, the end results are more exquisite each and every time. I particularly like the bruschetta."
"The secret is a dash of wine over the tomatoes." Judy told him. "That book you got me on fast and easy hors d'ouerves has really been quite the treat."
Finn and Rachel shared a confused glance as Jesse and Quinn's mom continued on in conversation like two best friends. They both agreed that this was something that earned a frown or two of bewilderment.
Rachel looked over at the pair. "So then, Mrs. Fabray, you enjoy cooking?"
"I love it." Judy smiled at the inquiry.
"It's a hobby." Jesse informed proudly. "She's really, very good. Should open her own restaurant."
"Now he's just being silly."
"No, I'm serious. I'd dine there. It'd be much better than the three-star restaurants in Lima posing as five-star."
"And has Quinn taken after you?"
"Rachel, do not insult Judy like that." Jesse chided her. "That's a terrible comparison."
She looked over to the older woman, hoping she didn't offend her. "Uh, sorry."
"Oh ignore him, dear."
"Lately, I've been trying." Rachel laughed lightly, and Mrs. Fabray thankfully seemed fine with joining in. "It's a much harder task than it sounds."
"I don't think so." Finn mumbled from behind them, still enjoying the appetizers.
"Yes, let us laugh at my expense."
"You'll be fine, Jesse." Judy assured the boy. "Besides, it will look better if you're all cheerful in the photos."
"Ah, prom photos." He sighed wistfully (mockingly). "In which we can all smile awkward smiles."
Rachel grinned. "My dads were excited about taking our pictures too." She was quick to inform the other excited parent of the night.
"Oh?"
Finn nodded, thinking back over the house he was in before this one. "Yeah, they kept telling us to do all of these poses." His mom also made him and Kurt take pictures before he left. Prom was really a long night.
"Well that was very smart of them." Judy smiled politely, but Rachel noted that it was also uncertain. This was usually the type of response she got when someone didn't understand or entirely approve of the two dads statement. However, before she had a chance to contemplate what this might mean to her, their fourth member was finally joining them, and Rachel was easily distracted.
"Quinn, you look breathtaking, but unfortunately you've now put us behind schedule." Jesse greeted her impatiently. "We're going to be late."
"Good. You should never arrive on time to these things."
"Perhaps when you're a guest, but since someone had what they'd view as a bright idea, I'm a chaperone. I don't believe the same social customs apply."
"Well it's not like I could have taken you as my date."
"You could have not taken me at all."
"And then you would have spent Monday whining about not being included." Quinn got the final point before swiftly turning to Rachel. "Hi." She smiled softly.
"Hi." Rachel returned eloquently and tried not to smile too brightly because that might look a little obnoxious in this setting. It's just, she couldn't really help herself. She was going to prom with Quinn Fabray. And sure, Jesse and Finn were coming too, but really, they were like movable accessories.
"Finn." Quinn broke the spell by looking over to the boy because, well, manners were something people were supposed to have on these occasions. He sent her a nod in return before her mother was quickly announcing picture time.
The next destination was Breadstix. The Not So Fantastic Four headed to the celebrated restaurant for dinner along with pretty much every other senior McKinley had to offer. Seeing as it was the place to be, there was a rush put over every table of customers. For their table, it was actually a nice favor on the waiter's behalf. Though enjoyable, it was also awkward which, truthfully, was to be expected. When they did finally get to the school, it was nowhere near as late as Jesse was fretting over. The gym was full, and all the gleeks seemed to be there already, but it wasn't like they missed anything.
It didn't take them all but a couple of seconds to find the table that housed most of New Directions.
"Remember, vote Pierce and Chang, and Brittany will dance with everyone." Artie rolled past them with Puck and Lauren, speaking loudly to some of McKinley's other students.
Rachel pointed to Artie's retreating wheels. "What-"
"Artie's still running his scam." Kurt filled them in. "Not that it seems to matter since Brittany's already dancing with everyone anyway."
"Yeah but that's just to piss me off." Santana informed gruffly before hopping out of her seat. "Excuse me." She sauntered away over to the dance floor, grabbing a random jock. She was sure to dance close enough to Brittany and her own current, random partner in order to be noticed.
Quinn frowned at this regression. "And I think we just time traveled."
Finn chuckled lightly. "Anything else we've missed?"
Mike shrugged. "Tina thought it would be a good idea to work on her performing nerves before Nationals."
"Things I don't need to hear about someone I picked to give a solo to." Jesse grumbled as they all watched Tina finish up her number with Blaine. Thankfully, Jesse's irritation wasn't increased as it was a nice little duet. When it was over, Mike went over to greet Tina as she exited off the small stage, and Blaine stayed up there to start his solo.
Finn took a deep breath at the start of the new song. "Right so, you wanna dance?" He asked Rachel.
She spared a glance Quinn's way seeing as the blonde would once again currently be her first choice for this sort of a thing, but Quinn and Jesse had moved to sit at the table and seemed to be chatting. "Um...sure, Finn." Rachel looked back over at him. He smiled and led her over to the crowded dance floor. It was surreal to think that three years ago dancing with Finn Hudson at their senior prom was a dream of hers. And now it was nothing but a friendly dance.
"Thanks for coming with me tonight." Finn looked down at her once they were comfortably moving with the song. "I mean, I know we brought Quinn and Jesse with us and stuff, but thanks."
"You're welcome." Rachel replied slowly because she still couldn't shake the guilt that she was, technically, using him. But only slightly.
"Look, Kurt wanted me to make an announcement because Kurt loves stuff like that, but I thought that was pretty stupid because it's not even that big of a deal. I still wanted to tell you, though."
"Tell me what?"
"That I signed up for school next year." He grinned. "I mean, it's not great like NYU or wherever it is Kurt's going again. It's just OSU at Lima which I thought would suck, ya know? But I don't know. My mom and I went over there, and it's not that bad. I'll be going with Artie and Mercedes and Puck, unless he goes to Rhodes to learn how to fix things. They have football too. It's non-tackle, but that's actually cooler because I'll be playing with a lot of the guys here, and they really can't block." Seriously, now he might not have to put bags of frozen peas on his sore spots. "And if I get good enough grades, I can transfer to somewhere better. Plus, did you know they have like tons of different degrees to choose from. And for some of them, you only have to be there for two years. How cool is that?"
"Very." She agreed with his enthusiasm, though the surprise for this information was solely Finn's emotion. "I'm happy for you, Finn. And I'm glad you're excited about this."
"I kinda am. College is gonna be awesome. Like, you don't even have to go to class for a full day. You can set up to only have three classes on Fridays."
So many yards away, Kurt sat at glee's table watching his boyfriend perform. It was a bubbly song that had everyone on the dance floor enjoying themselves. He was able to spot Sam and Mercedes continuing to dance together, completely offbeat. Mike and Tina were doing a much better job while Brittany and Santana continued to meet each other's challenges by using other bodies. That was all he saw since Puck, Lauren, and Artie were returning to the table—loudly he might add. They were talking about the egregious betting pool. Frankly, Kurt had heard enough of that weeks ago. Bored, he turned to the occupants next to him to see if they were also annoyed. Sadly, the two on his right were not normal, respectable people who took notice to these sorts of interruptions. Instead, Quinn and Jesse were busy watching Rachel try and dance with Finn both for different reasons Kurt was sure. Or, well, actually maybe it was for the same reason given their dysfunction.
"I really don't think you have anything to worry about." Kurt leaned over a little in his seat to be heard.
Quinn frowned, looking to the boy on her left. "What?"
"Rachel and that brother of mine. You're currently the main star running around in that fantasy of a head of hers."
"Right." She wasn't actually worried but whatever. "I love that everyone knows my business."
Jesse narrowed his eyes at the glare he was receiving. "Still?"
"Mmm."
"For the record, I wish I didn't." Kurt supplied. "I don't see you being a good match for her. Of course nor was Finn. Hard to find someone who is, though." He quickly looked to Jesse in order to cut him off. "You weren't either." Jesse shut his mouth dejectedly.
"Well thanks, Kurt." Quinn told him. "That means almost something to me."
"And Quinn Fabray's claws have seemed to grow back at full length. What are the odds?"
She laughed. "If only."
Jesse shook his head at their carefree smiles. "You two are terrible at this. Please never try and intimidate someone through words. Especially with something like a metaphor. It does nothing but take away from your point. Also, cut down on the amount of words."
"I'm sorry I didn't catch that."
"Hysterical, Kurt, really." Jesse retorted dryly. "As you're both boring me and Rachel has yet to return from the Land of the Giants, let's talk." He looked to Quinn now.
"Because we don't do enough of that already?" She quipped.
"No, not when you're avoiding me."
"For once I'm not actually avoiding you. I was busy this week."
"Right. I still don't understand why girls can't also rent their dresses." Jesse said earning two nice, incredulous looks.
"It's like he knows nothing in life." Kurt berated. "And by the way, not all men choose to wear rentals. Some of us are creative enough to design their own tuxedos."
Jesse merely smirked in return. "Yes, and what is it you're going for this year, Kurt? Last year as I remember was Scottish prostitute."
"Well at least I look kempt. Do you happen to own a pair of scissors? Or a comb?"
"I trim when it's scheduled."
"You both look great." Quinn interrupted the spat as that was not something she wanted to literally be in the middle of. She shifted her focus back to Jesse. "Can you get back to what you were talking about?"
Jesse ignored this request, remaining a step behind. "Quinn, I'm sorry, but as you now play for another team, you're opinion on how men look is no longer relevant."
"He's right." Kurt agreed.
"So then you can't comment on how any of the girls look?" She challenged Kurt in return.
"No. There is a drastic difference between a sophisticated gay youth and a lesbian."
"100% true." Jesse nodded along.
"If you don't believe us, just look to Santana." Kurt offered. "She wears overalls weekly."
"Both disgraceful and predictable."
"Yes, I'd be more willing to give her a pass if that look didn't go out fifteen years ago."
"I thought they were coming back?"
"I'm pretending they're not."
Quinn blinked slowly between them. "They should really think about serving cocktails at these things."
"Oh don't worry, Quinn. We're not judging you right now." Jesse tried to assure her.
"Well, she has been known to wear a jean jacket from time to time."
Jesse glanced from Kurt and his words back over to Quinn, almost disappointed. But they would worry about that fashion don't later. "Moving on. As I was saying, I was looking at apartment listings-"
"Oh God, why Jesse?" She whined. "I thought we talked about this."
"Yes, but the housing market in New York is competitive, and there is no reason why we shouldn't start now. Especially when we'll be there next week."
"Oh so it's true." Kurt sighed. He didn't want to believe Rachel when she told him this days ago. "Great."
"Yes, Quinn and I will be in New York next year." Jesse smiled. After he spent an afternoon with Quinn in argumentative therapy, progress was made. Rachel liked to pretend otherwise and think she caused this change in outlook, but Jesse knew. He's the one who's had Quinn as a patient for almost a year now. Quinn was clearly only trying to make the girl she liked feel better.
"Exactly. Next year." Quinn reminded. "Wouldn't it be kind of pointless to go look at apartments now?"
"No. I've found a couple of two bedrooms in our parents' required price range that we should go and take a look at. We'll be right there. And they allow pets, if you wanted to bring along little Redford."
"Paul Newman and I already told you I'm not bringing him with us. My mom loves to spoil him, and I don't see the need to move him into a whole new home."
"I'm aware of the mutual Fabray cat-insanity. I only thought this might change your mind. We should really just go sign the lease for that one that has an elevator. I really liked what the photos showed. And honestly, what's there to come back to after we win Nationals anyway?"
"Not to intrude here," Kurt, well, intruded, "but I'm pretty sure Quinn needs to receive her diploma. Isn't that how graduations typically work?" He joked.
"So they can mail it to her." Jesse countered.
"Why don't you just stay in the apartment?" Quinn snapped back at Jesse.
"Alone? For two and a half months? Are you kidding?"
"At this point, no."
"I see someone's still mad about having her hand forced into doing something she wants to do." Quinn rolled her eyes at this, and Jesse looked over to Kurt. "And no. I mean that exactly how I said it. Come." Jesse stood and held out his hand. "Let's dance." He dragged Quinn from her seat as the song selection once again changed; this time with no one other than the sound system performing.
Quinn allowed herself to be pulled to the dance floor as some previous dancers rotated out. Santana was particularly done with dancing right now. The next person she grabbed to dance with was going to lose their hands, that was for sure. Not wanting to deal with the general happiness and sappiness that was glee, she walked to a different table.
"You know most people can't pull it off, but stalker looks good on you. In a creepy Quasimodo way." Santana greeted her friend, sitting down. "Miss having me as a prom date?"
Karofsky ignored the latter statement. "I'm not stalking."
"Really? Because last I checked stalking was standing around watching people who have no idea you're watching them."
"I'm just making sure that something doesn't go wrong?"
"What? Like Blaine's short, little legs step on Kurt's toes?"
"No, like none of the guys do anything to them." Karofsky corrected.
"Odd. I don't see a red beret."
"A couple of weeks ago, they said they wanted to hogtie Kurt and Blaine for their prom campaign."
"So what? I've been saying the same thing." She rolled her eyes and then looked over at him sternly. "This is pathetic even for you. I'm starting to think the only reason you came here was to watch out for them. The thought is making me nauseous."
"And why did you come here? To spend the night dancing with your girlfriend? Oh wait."
She sent him a glare. "Well at least I'm not a loser who quit glee just because the big bad nobodies of this school like to tease you. You're such a girl."
"Is that why you like me?" He retorted.
"Is that why you hate yourself?" She shot right back.
Dave ignored her comeback and instead focused on what he found was more important. "I thought you got why I quit glee."
"I do, but I still think you're a loser." She replied easily and because of his frown, continued on; not at all happy that the explanation was necessary. "You quit glee because you didn't want to be on Berry's level of suck for the rest of high school. Now you're busy pretending to be protector, but you still won't talk to any of us. So yeah, you're the biggest loser here."
"Well at least I'm not the only one."
Santana glared again. "Oh I know you're not talking about me."
"I don't see anyone else not dancing with Brittany. Seriously, she's dancing with everybody."
"Really? I hadn't noticed that."
"I don't think anyone would care if she danced with you too." He shrugged because it was true. Gay or not, he doubted this school would actually care if two girls danced together. "Most people in this school think you're super sluts who have fooled around anyway." This was also true.
"We're fighting about other things that aren't prom right now."
"Then do something to fix it."
Santana shook her head because, yeah, based on how much her night sucked so far, she did need to do something to apologize or whatever. But still, she wasn't going to listen to this coming from Karofsky of all people.
"You're miserable." She told him plainly. "Why don't you do something to fix that before giving out advice?"
Dave sighed as she got up and walked away wherever it was people stormed off to at proms. Santana was wrong. He wasn't miserable. He knew what that felt like. That was his main emotion last year. Now he was just…lonely. He quit glee so this school would leave him alone which it was, but he still didn't want anything to do with those people either. They, collectively, were assholes. But it wasn't like hanging around any of the glee kids was a viable option. That would undermine every choice he's made over the last couple of months. Besides, he didn't regret his decision anyway. Glee caused too many problems, and Santana was wrong about everything. There was no point to him even thinking about this.
The next hour or so was spent in blissful McKinley merriment which by merriment standards was like playing Parcheesi in a retirement home. Dancing was junior high esque as Figgins would butt in if things got too R-rated. Sylvester was once again playing Doberman watch dog so drinks were made in the bathrooms. It was what everyone involved expected. Frankly, Santana was just waiting for the after parties to start. It might make this whole thing worthwhile. But the only way the party of choice will be a good time is if she got back on Brittany's best side. After some minor planning, research, and shots of courage in the restroom within the past hour of non-merriment, that was all but guaranteed. She just needed her reinforcements.
"Frankenteen." Santana disturbed a chatting Finn and Quinn as they stood awkwardly by themselves. Neither seemed to be annoyed with the interruption. "Don't you have to go fight global warming by standing in front of the sun?"
Finn frowned. "What?"
Santana rolled her eyes and just grabbed onto Quinn's arm to drag them away from their club's resident oaf. Their oaf shrugged before walking away himself. Santana continued to lead herself and Quinn over to a corner of the gym that would've been being used for classic PDA had Figgins not learned how to principal from PBS.
"So you're gonna help me sing to Brittany in about ten minutes for my number of the night." Santana was quick to order. "I'm thinking 'There She Goes'."
"Um…"
"Remember? It's that dumb song that was covered by that dumb band when we were kids. It's super cheesy, super nineties, and apparently super gay. I just Googled 'lesbian songs to sing to your secret girlfriend', and it was like the first one to pop up."
"Yeah, I'm pretty sure that song was supposed to be about using heroin."
"What?" Santana scowled. "That makes no sense. And anyway, who cares? Brittany won't."
"Look, as great as it is that you've finally figured out how to sing to Brittany in public, I'm not singing a fake lesbian song with you."
"I need a backup singer." Santana informed harshly.
"Find someone else." Quinn countered in the same tone.
"Are you serious? I thought we were like lesbian gal pals now. Q, I've never liked you more which, yeah, isn't saying much but still. Now we're like actual friends."
"Okay, this is exactly why I'm not singing with you. It will make some type of a statement, particularly to the glee club, and Rachel will probably think I'm singing with you to sing to her."
"So? She's Rachel –now more than ever– Gold Star Berry. Singing to her comes with the job you signed up for. That's what you get when you have a fetish for loud and annoying midgets that want to chew on your leg."
"Santana, no." She glowered.
"My God, you are like the biggest coward. How you were ever head cheerleader is like a direct insult to me. Deeply." Santana shook her head, honestly offended. Sue Sylvester was in major need of a reality check. "You suck." She spat before leaving Quinn in the Public Display of Childhood corner alone.
Santana maneuvered through the sea of students sneering at those who got in her way. She was also sure to give Bland a harsh glare as he walked past her. Blaine considered the look before ignoring it (It was Santana after all.) and instead just continued over to the refreshment table like he had been intending to. He refilled two plastic cups with the tasteless punch and observed the body sulking a mere two feet from him.
"You know what would probably be easier than watching us? Joining us." Blaine placed the ladle back into the oversized bowl. Karofsky just ignored his words, continuing to watch the dance taking place in front of them. "I'm sure no one will care. Artie will probably be happy about no longer being the only one without a date."
"Do you ever worry about falling off that horse of yours? It's pretty high."
"Right." Blaine nodded to himself, getting past the attitude. "Well graduation is in about two weeks now. And clearly people still care about what you're doing seeing as you're spending your senior prom watching other people have their senior prom." He joked, earning a Karofsky-glare. Blaine sighed before trying to produce his point. "No one's paying attention to anyone other than themselves tonight. You could come sit with us. Heck, we could probably slow dance right now, and nobody would notice. "
Dave finally turned to look at him. "Two guys dancing together will always get noticed. Even if they're here-and-queer like you and Kurt and it's expected, people still take the time to notice."
"Out of curiosity, what exactly is the maximum capacity on regrets for one person?" Blaine shook his head, not looking for a response. He headed back over to glee's table and retook his seat next to his boyfriend before passing one of the plastic cups over. Kurt took it gratefully.
"Maybe you'll win Prom King on your own. Wouldn't that be exciting?" Rachel continued speaking actively to Kurt.
"Doesn't that kinda defeat the purpose of trying to win with two kings?" Finn questioned.
Tina turned to Mike sitting beside her. "Why does it suddenly sound like we're playing cards?"
Sam frowned as he also returned to the table. "We're playing cards?" He sat.
"Starting to wish we were." Kurt muttered.
"I just think it would be inspiring." Rachel continued with her previous point. "And of course that's not to say I wouldn't mind seeing Blaine or Mike or even Noah win either."
"Didn't you cheer when Kurt was named Prom Queen last year?" Sam reminded.
"Once he proudly accepted it, yes. I mean, he did win." She grinned.
"I don't think that was a win in the traditional sense, Rachel."
Kurt nodded. "More like cold-blooded humiliation, but I owned it and now I'll forever have a crown."
"Did anyone else think it was strange that Kurt got a regular crown instead of a tiara type crown?" Mike asked the table, earning a boatload of frowns. "What?"
As the argument around the table began about how Kurt's crown was not at all manly or similar to Karofsky's even though it sort of was, Quinn returned and retook her seat next to Rachel.
"Where'd you go?" Rachel asked her quietly, hoping to keep them out of the discussion still going on.
"Santana kidnapped me, and then I had to help her with something." She explained.
"Should I be worried?" She asked playfully.
Quinn chuckled. "I hope not."
"Are you having a good time, Quinn?" Rachel asked once Quinn's laughter died out.
"Yeah." Quinn drawled slowly. "I'd say so far it's significantly better than last year." She spoke wearily. "Not my finest hour."
Rachel tilted her head, knowing where Quinn's mind drifted off to. At this point, it was hard enough to envision Quinn slapping her let alone actually remembering it. Funny as it is, she's still not sure why she followed after Quinn in that moment. Really, it would have made more sense to check on Kurt or stay in the gym with Sam and Mercedes. But delving into that would have to wait because in present time, Quinn's mood was visibly dropping, and they needed a distraction. She created one by smiling and reaching over to grab Quinn's hand in a friendly manner.
"Well, we're not the only two having fun." Rachel directed their attention over to the dance floor.
Once Quinn found what she was supposed to be looking at, she frowned. Jesse dancing with a student outside of glee was somewhat disturbing. "Are we sure this is legal?"
"I'm sure there's a technicality in there somewhere." Rachel laughed. "At least Jesse has taken the time to stop paying attention to us."
"That is a plus, and our forth wheel seems to be distracted by the air."
"I suppose one could argue that given these facts we could be considered a twosome." Rachel coaxed cautiously.
"I don't think it'd really have to be argued." Quinn returned shyly because that whole pretend confidence thing was out of practice. Rachel didn't seem to mind.
The two were disturbed when a new song started and Quinn snapped her attention to the stage. Before coming back to the table, Quinn –because of something like guilt– followed after Santana and convinced her that they could get Mercedes to be her backup singer. They did, and now on stage, Santana and Mercedes were set to perform the non-lesbian, drug song. When Santana sang the opening lines, Quinn scanned the room for Brittany, and it didn't take long since Santana pointed to the girl to let Brittany know who she was singing to. From what Quinn could see, Brittany looked very happy sitting in Artie's lap and listening to Santana's song.
"There she goes. There she goes again." Santana sang. "Pulsing through my veins. And I just can't contain. This feeling that remains."
Rachel leaned over in her chair. "Is Santana aware of the context of this song?"
Quinn chuckled. "Yeah, but Brittany's her drug of choice so it's kind of fitting."
In the later stages of the night, McKinley's prom had lost a few of its guests. Those that were hosting the after parties already took off with their closer friends to get ready. The couples that lacked self-control left to profess their ever important high school love to each other. Some others left because they got bored. However, those that stayed to continue their fun were pleased to be interrupted by their principal for one of the final prom moments.
"Everyone. Everyone. Students." Figgins spoke into the microphone on stage. "If I can have your attention please. It's time to announce this year's Prom King and Queen." The man smiled brightly as the candidates stood on the stage behind him, and everyone on the floor moved closer to the stage to witness the outcome.
"Odd, isn't it?" Jesse mused. "This school seems to hate everything about New Directions, and yet for the past two years the majority of students running for Prom King and Queen have come from glee."
"I don't think you should try to make too much sense of it." Quinn told him.
"See because I think studies should be done on this school. The absurdity it resides in is actually appalling to me as a living and breathing human being."
"So become St. Scientist and do it yourself."
"Yes, but that would require being here for longer than I have to."
"Shh." Rachel shushed, turning around in front of them. "They're announcing the winners."
Jesse waited for Rachel to turn back around before continuing. "I can't believe you wanted this at one time."
Quinn sighed in annoyance next to him. On the one hand, she couldn't believe it either. But on the other, it still almost felt like she was losing it to someone else. This is perhaps why she voted for Kurt and Blaine. There couldn't be a queen if there were two kings, right?
"And this year's McKinley High Prom King is Noah Puckerman." Figgins read on stage with a surprised smile while Puck cheered.
The crowd clapped as it was the thing to do, but most of them were split between being confused and miffed. Those who had placed bets on candidates who weren't Puck complained and shot daggers at a surprised looking Artie because he was the easiest scapegoat.
"And your 2012 Prom Queen is Lauren Zizes." Figgins even frowned slightly while reading Lauren's name but then put on a smile as she was given her crown and sceptre.
No one but three people knew what to make of this. The majority of the senior class that attended voted for the predictable and, more importantly, likable Mike and Brittany. Everyone thought they were shoe-ins. Truthfully, they were as the votes were tallied earlier. But as Lauren concocted weeks ago with Puck and Artie, if someone who were considered the underdogs were to win, then those who placed bets on that couple would stand to make the most money. So as they executed tonight, flawlessly they might add, Artie would continue encouraging everyone to vote Pierce and Chang, and Puck would charm the former Ohio Beauty Queen who was hired to present the crown and collect the votes. Distracted by the self-proclaimed attractive Jew, Artie was easily able to switch some of the genuine ballots out with their fixed ones. Puck, Lauren, and Artie were now free to split about $900 between them. And that was how you scam a bunch of idiotic teenagers out of their paychecks and allowance.
The losing candidates left the stage, and Figgins announced the traditional Prom King and Queen's dance. Mercedes and Artie took to the stage as planned and began their performance of "Dancing in the Moonlight." Oddly enough in a McKinley way, the only losing candidates who didn't seem to mind the loss were the true winners. Mike was content to join the dance with Tina because he never liked the idea of winning King if Tina wouldn't win with him anyway. And Brittany still viewed it a stupid crown she could buy at a dollar store. Really, she only wanted it to up Lord Tubbington's title status. Plus, Santana sang to her in front of everyone which made running for Prom Queen totally pointless. Santana actually seemed to be angrier about Brittany's loss than anyone else. There were some choice words being thrown around in Spanish.
"You okay?" Blaine asked Kurt as they watched Puck and Lauren's dance continue on.
He took a deep breath and shrugged. "There's not any reason why I shouldn't be."
"Kurt."
"No, Blaine. It's fine. I shouldn't have been expecting anything. Why could a gay man ever be voted Prom King? That's ridiculous. I'm clearly only ever meant to be Prom Queen to them. They did go through all the trouble of honoring me after all."
"You know what I remember most from last year?" He asked Kurt softly. "I remember you coming back in here and taking your crown and them cheering for you once you did. It wasn't even sarcastic."
"No, but it was guilt, wasn't it? If it wasn't, then they never would have gone back to tormenting us this year."
"Or maybe it's just 'cause it's high school."
"Right, and they should all be excused from their actions because they're teenagers." Kurt shook his head, frustrated. "I am so over this place. Maybe Jesse St. Moron has the right idea. Those who plan on going to New York should just stay there next week."
"Maybe but, see, then we wouldn't have another summer like the last one, and you'd only be able to talk to your family over the phone." Blaine tilted his head good-humoredly. "Plus, I think most people in college come home for the summer anyway so…"
"Well except for those who opt out of dorms and go for apartments."
Blaine chuckled. "Is this Kurt Hummel admitting to having his own future bachelor pad?"
Kurt laughed as well, shaking his head again. He hardly saw himself as someone who would ever have a bachelor pad. He turned them around so they could head back over to their table. They got a few feet before the taunts began coming in. Of course.
"Don't feel bad." A former football player gave his mock sympathy. "We won't judge you if you cry. We expect it." The small group of jocks chuckled while Kurt and Blaine just tried to walk around them.
"Yeah, that's what happened when you won. Why wouldn't it happen when you lost?" Another one added on.
Azimio laughed along with his buddies. "I'm sure we could find some tissues if you'd like."
"Yes, we're devastated by your lack of love." Kurt turned back around and supplied dryly.
"Aw this one's sassy." Azimio frowned sarcastically. "He might have made a good King after all."
"Whatever." One of the guy's dates cut in. Her voice reeked of cheerio. "They shouldn't have been allowed to run in the first place. Prom is for traditional couples."
Kurt rolled his eyes. "Yes, because what's more traditional than the idiot jock and stuck up cheerleader? Oh wait. I think I meant stereotypical."
"Keep talking." Her boyfriend warned.
"Kurt. Come on." Blaine tried to pull him away. "They're not worth it."
"Or anything." Kurt muttered, breaking the resolve and earning himself a shove. Once he came to a stop he glared while Blaine retaliated on his behalf which basically did nothing. But to be fair, it never really does given the size disadvantages.
McKinley's latest version of a "fight" caught several people's attention. The members of New Directions that were nearest began to make their way over to defend their fellow members. However, it was the team of Dave Karofsky and Santana Lopez that were the ones to step between both sides. They were clearly the most flawless tag team to ever tag. This was going to be fun.
"I wasn't aware the Bully Chicks worked prom security." Jock #who cares jeered.
Karofsky folded his arms. "You don't seem to be aware of a lot of crap. Like how to run a post route for instance."
"We're aware that you're seriously in our way." Azimio said simply.
Santana scoffed. "I think someone dropped a butter biscuit. I'm sure if you breathe deep enough, you'll be able to smell it." She waved her hand. "Go on, go fetch." Azimio took a step closer. He was so not above sneering at a girl.
"Guys, it's a dance." Brittany reminded everyone as she walked over next to Santana. "Let's dance." She grinned.
One of the guys nodded. "Okay." He quickly shoved Karofsky. He could so run a post route.
Karofsky easily gained his balance and pushed him right back. Seeing as the once tightend enjoyed the restroom bar throughout the night, he stumbled a little farther than the rest, unintentionally getting in the way of Puck and Lauren's dance. As the King and Queen got pushed apart, they stepped up to who caused this damage. He was actually a little afraid of this pair. It didn't help now that their song finished, and they missed being able to toss out their final badass moves. Plus, the lack of music now had everyone's attention that had yet to catch on.
"Watch it." Lauren barked at the jock.
"Yeah, do you not see our crowns? We're royalty." Puck reminded.
Principal Figgins muttered under his breath at the commotion. Will he ever get a day of rest in this school? One night wouldn't be much. He looked to see if any other faculty member would take this one, but the only one who would was no longer in the gym. (Sue had found out about the bathroom parties and was currently screaming at the deviants in a soundproofed interrogation room. Yes, she had one of those. No, Figgins didn't know he bought it for her.) Figgins shook his head as he had to break this up himself but was saved as someone beat him to it. He inwardly did his happy-dance.
"Excuse me. Chaperone coming through." Jesse spoke in a bored tone as he pushed through the no-named students with his dates (and Finn) of the night. "Oh how surprising. I never would have guessed that any of you would be involved in a confrontation such as this." To be objective, he made sure to direct this criticism at Kurt, Blaine, Santana, and Karofsky as well. They didn't appreciate it.
Azimio and his pack of zombie meat addressed Jesse. "Oh look it's Mr. Hairspray."
He huffed at this. "Well, insulting a faculty member is worth one detention. Forgetting that I'm a saint definitely earns you a second. Do I look as plain as just another mister to you?" He shot Quinn a look of incredulity. It was preposterous. He was St. Everything. It was a nationwide fact.
Azimio ignored that straight up fool 'cause what was he even talking about? "You were seriously in this club?" He looked back at Karofsky. "And now you're back to protecting them? What are you like the gay mafia? Makes sense given them." He gestured to Kurt and Blaine. "And him." This time to Jesse. "Not to mention our gay quarterback. We got hell for that during every road game."
"Hey." Finn frowned, irritated at being included in this. "Do you guys have any idea how stupid you sound every time you say glee is gay? I mean, we all have girlfriends or had girlfriends. There's like two gay guys in glee and so what? They're actually talented. And confident. And going to New York City. You couldn't even point that out on a map. Glee club is not gay."
"To be fair, it's a little gay." Jesse amended because, well…
Azimio just shook his head. "Man, whatever. You probably all write secret love notes to each other. I hope you at least include the Asian." He threw is arm in Mike's general direction. "Better not be discriminating on me. Really, y'all should just come out right now. It ain't like we don't know."
Karofsky sighed tiredly. High school suddenly seemed so incredibly pointless. Nothing tainted with the scent of McKinley mattered as everyone attached were idiots. Really, when Finn Hudson tells someone else they sound dumb, they were fucking dumb. "Yeah, okay." He nodded deprecatingly and turned to Kurt. "You wanna dance?" He asked easily.
Santana was the first to frown while the Azimio laughed indecisively. Karofsky almost laughed himself at Azimio and the guys' collective confusion. "What? You didn't think I'd take up your offer." He shrugged nonchalantly before focusing back on Kurt. "Well?"
Kurt blinked away his shock. "Um…"
Karofsky rolled his eyes and looked to Blaine. "Would that be okay?"
Blaine glanced over at his boyfriend. "It's Kurt's decision."
Kurt nodded once, understanding that declining would be like dropping a hanging Karofsky off a ledge. It would end all progress. As Kurt was led to where Puck and Lauren were previously, Mercedes and Artie looked to each other and quickly made the decision to start up another song. Artie rolled to their band members and gave them the request. Soon the opening to "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" was playing out. There wasn't a reason, but the two had talked about doing this duet in the past, and they'd probably never have another opportunity given Jesse's ultra-lameness. Karofsky, however, didn't exactly like the song selection. Nor did he like all eyes on him or the recording cellphones of some of his former and snickering friends. This suddenly seemed like a colossally dumb decision. And what was he even doing?
"So is this finally your moment?" Kurt recalled and joked quietly, trying to distract from the rest of the room. Dave just shook his head. "You know it's okay to breathe in these situations."
"Please just shut up." He somehow grounded out between his teeth.
Kurt sighed. This was beyond uncomfortable especially considering Dave seemed to miss the point that in order to dance you had to actually move. He didn't like that he was this fearful. It was actually worrisome. Kurt looked across the floor to Blaine for some type of support or vote of confidence. Blaine considered the situation and Karofsky's whiter-shade-of-pale face.
"Hey, Mike." Blaine grabbed the other boy's attention. "Can I have this dance?" He held out his hand. Mike shot a confused glance toward Tina, but she only gave him a shrug in return. Mike turned back to Blaine and gave over his hand, trusting his teammate. They walked over near where Kurt and Karofsky were and joined them dancing.
Kurt shot his boyfriend a grateful smile before looking back at Karofsky. "See." He grinned nervously. "Not a big deal." Dave finally went back to practicing the art of breathing and let something that could pass as a smile grace his face.
Santana chuckled once at the second set of boys and then shook her head fondly.
"Come on." She dragged Brittany out to the dance floor.
The three duos danced to Mercedes and Artie's voices, and Jesse had to roll his eyes when Puck and Sam followed suit. The latest Prom King sent the onlookers a threatening glance while he and Sam tried to figure out who was leading whom. Jesse really hoped this wasn't a reflection on himself as an instructor. To make matters worse, Lauren was dragging Tina into this too. Why? Because Rachel was politely asking Quinn. It was like watching the Disney Channel. The extraordinarily gay Disney Channel which given the actual Disney Channel was impressive. Soon the rest of the students were joining in with their dates like they had been dancing all night, ignoring whatever just took place. The group of instigating jocks didn't like this turn of events, but Figgins seemed to be relieved about the lack of action.
Finn frowned and painfully looked to Jesse next to him. "So um, like you don't want us to join too, right?"
"Goodness, no." Jesse shook his head and left Finn there as he was done watching this display of pointless glee sentiment.
"Oh thank God." Finn scattered away in the opposite direction.
As the song sped up some, Karofsky was very pleased that it no longer had to be a one-on-one set up. He was fine with Santana and Brittany pushing Kurt over to Blaine while it became more of a group thing. Well, for most at least. Rachel had other ideas seeing as she had already shared a few dances with both Finn and Jesse. It was only fair to dance at least one dance with all of her dates. That was the generous thing to do after all. It wasn't like there was a hidden agenda. Besides, a sped up group dance would defeat the purpose of having a private conversation. She, for once, was more than fine with ignoring the music being sung.
"You look beautiful tonight, Quinn." Rachel complimented.
Quinn smiled softly. "Um, thanks. You too." She paused to cringe at her own words. "That was terrible." She paused apologetically. "I don't really know how to do this."
"Do what?"
"Any of this." She answered tentatively. For the record, that whole faux confidence plan lasted about ten minutes into prom. "I've never…With everyone else I've ever been with, I never had to do anything. I mean, I'd tease them when it was necessary, but for the most part, I didn't need to prove anything. They were the ones who had to win me over, and I just had to wait."
Rachel frowned, momentarily overlooking Quinn's warped idea of a romantic life. "Do you think that you need to win me over?"
"No, but I know you. And I know that you like to be courted."
"Sure, when it's called for. But when I know that I already like the person, I've never seen the benefit in playing hard to get. It seems to just cause unnecessary delays." She informed. "Have you been worried about this all night?" Rachel continued, thinking of Jesse's advice on trying to figure out Quinn's thoughts for herself.
Quinn took a deep breath before explaining. "You make me nervous, Rachel."
"How so?"
"I'm constantly on edge around you because things are moving quickly and I know something's going to happen." She began. "I worry about what to say or I try to get my stomach under control when you're talking."
"So what you're saying is I give you butterflies." Rachel smiled at the now blushing Quinn. When she looked away embarrassed, it was then Rachel decided that she enjoyed dancing with people closer to her own height. Quinn didn't really have anywhere to look away to. "And what's wrong with that?"
She shrugged. "Nothing. But I don't like not being in control of what I'm feeling."
Rachel sighed lightly. She didn't fully understand Quinn's objection. She still had no idea why Quinn was so afraid of a relationship even after she's already admitted to having feelings for Rachel. It didn't make sense. How did one become so frightened by the world?
"Who hurt you, Quinn Fabray?" Rachel asked somewhat playfully, somewhat seriously.
Quinn missed the segue into banter, though. She didn't know the answer to that or even if there was one. Whenever people tended to hurt her it was always because she brought it upon herself. Either way, she really didn't want to be having those thoughts right now.
"Let's just dance, Rachel."