A/N: Early chapter y'all as my computer is going to be fixed and I figured better early than late… Enjoy!
There is a television show mentioned in this chapter that I don't know a lot about other than it films in New York which is one of the reasons why I chose it. I obviously don't own that show either.
Warning: Mild sexy times
Disclaimer: I don't own Glee, anything mentioned, any songs, quotes, or books used.
Chapter 40: Never Give Up, Never Give In
"It's the possibility of having a dream come true that makes life interesting."
-Paulo Coelho; The Alchemist
/
Quinn was lost in the world of her creation.
She had decided during the filming of her movie that she wanted to write a screenplay and of course when she shared this with Rachel the girl was completely on board with the idea. So she began writing it.
As the story started to unfold she realized it was going to work better as a television show so she changed the idea a bit and was turning into a pilot; which was now very close to being complete.
It was early; and it was Rachel's day off from her show. It was also one of the rare days that she was off so they intended to have a whole day together for the first time in ages, and she couldn't wait for Rachel to wake up.
She woke up very early herself; and she did that with the intent of getting as much of the story written as she could before Rachel woke up; she literally couldn't wait until the thing was finished and she could start trying to sell it.
Her career was flourishing; in addition to the movie… her agent was getting her guest starring roles on the New York filmed television shows. She was even auditioning for television pilots. It was wonderful; and she could finally enjoy it fully- and with Rachel- because Rachel's career was getting on track as well.
As she was writing she was getting lost in the story like she usually did when she was writing and what she didn't know was that Rachel was awake.
And watching her.
/
Rachel's eyes had fluttered open and she found it strange that Quinn wasn't in bed next to her since for as long as she could remember Quinn would sleep in; or try to anyway…while she was up and exercising. She shrugged and figured Quinn was either reading or had to go out and there would be a note; so she got up and got dressed.
She needed coffee.
As she walked toward the kitchen she heard the sound of Quinn's keyboard being franticly battered… and that to Rachel was a new sound but a sound that completely turned her on. She poked her head into the guest room slash study; and she saw Quinn.
She was wearing a tank top and her monkeys in glasses sleep pants. Her hair was up in a messy bun, and her glasses were sliding down her nose as her fingers tapped away furiously at the keyboard; Rachel couldn't help but stare.
Coffee be dammed.
She watched, and watched, and watched.
And when she couldn't take it anymore she reacted.
Quinn was lost in the world of her creation; when Rachel's fingers sliding across her neck brought her out of her fantasies of reality and into her reality of fantasies.
"Hey babe," she said simply but then gulped when she saw the look of wanton desire in Rachel's eyes. "What's um… up?"
"You look so good Quinn," Rachel said. She took her laptop off of her lap and moved it to the coffee table that was in front of the couch Quinn was currently sitting on. "I was watching you work and I…" she straddled Quinn's hips. "I mm," she hummed and Quinn might've moaned as well as her hands found purchase on Rachel's hips. "Fuck Quinn, you just do things to me," she continued as she started to work her hips against Quinn's hot center. Quinn sat back and watched as Rachel's hips worked them both into a frenzy.
"Well whatever I did… please tell me what it was, so I can do it again…and always." Rachel giggled at that but didn't stop her ministrations.
"It's nothing you did Quinn, it's just you. You with these eyes… with those glasses," her eyes moved lower. "With your amazing tits," Quinn moaned at the dirty word and then she moaned again when Rachel cupped and squeezed them. "With every fucking sexy thing about you and that doesn't even count your intelligence, your romantic nature, and your out of this world kindness," with that Quinn couldn't take anymore. She moved her hand from Rachel's hip, grasped the front of the girl's tank top, and pulled her into a bruising kiss that left them both wanting more. She pushed her tongue into that glorious mouth, and moaned when Rachel slipped her own against it. Their lips mashed, their teeth clanked, and they knew it was messy.
But sometimes messy was good.
Sometimes messy was perfect.
And this was one of those times.
Quinn slipped her hand up the back of Rachel's tank top, and she slipped the other one up the front. She held her tight with the one hand and nearly came undone when her other hand found Rachel's stiff nipple. She toyed with it between her fingers as their messy kissing got ten times hotter.
"Fuck," Rachel hummed as she pulled out of the kiss. Quinn lifted the front of her shirt and found herself staring at those perfect nipples. She continued to toy with the right one while her lips found the left. Rachel rocked her hips and tangled her hand in Quinn's hair as those lips closed around the straining bud and then that tongue started to flick it back and forth. Quinn's mouth was on her nipple but Rachel felt it pulsing over and over in her throbbing clit and she wanted more.
"Quinn," she whined and Quinn released her nipple to meet her eyes. "I-I want…" she trailed off because Quinn's lips were back on her nipple. Quinn knew what she wanted. She didn't have to say it. Quinn's other hand slowly slid down her back, over her ass, and she lifted her off her lap. She pushed Rachel to the side so that she was now lying flat on the couch. Quinn was instantly hovering over her and reattaching her mouth to that mouthwatering nipple; while her hand fumbled with the waistband of Rachel's yoga pants.
It was then that Quinn's phone rang and Quinn removed her lips from Rachel.
"Fucking hell!" Rachel shouted with frustration because Quinn removed her hand and got up to get her phone.
"Oh my god," Quinn's excited tone pushed Rachel's frustrations away and she waited as Quinn answered the phone.
"Hello," she heard Quinn and she realized that she was holding her breath while Quinn listened to whoever was on the line.
"Yes! That would be amazing… yes!" There was another short pause before Quinn's excited voice rang out again. "Yes, I can definitely be there within the hour," her eyes landed on Rachel as she listened and Rachel could feel the excitement exuding from her. She didn't know what was happening exactly; but she knew she was proud.
Rachel waited with bated breath as Quinn said goodbye to the person she was talking to and ended the call. When Quinn's eyes again landed on her own; she knew something wonderful had happened.
"That was my agent, I just got an audition for a recurring role on a television show," she said all in one breath and Rachel squealed with delight and hugged her.
"Which one?" She wondered as she pulled out of the hug. Quinn thought about it and then shrugged. Rachel giggled at the fact that she was so excited that she didn't even take notice of what she was excited about.
"Doesn't matter," Quinn finally said. "All that matters is that it's happening," Rachel jumped up and down as the news spread throughout her. Quinn was going to be a recurring character on a television show. She leaned in and kissed the hell out of her and Quinn responded in kind.
Rachel was again desperately pushing her own insecurities and self-doubt to the back of her mind and focus on celebrating Quinn's accomplishment.
She'd never give up.
She'd never give in.
So she pushed the fears away and relished in Quinn's happiness.
"I am so proud of you love," Rachel told her after pulling out of the embrace and looking deep into her dazed eyes.
"Thank you baby," Quinn squealed and the sound made Rachel remember how much she loved when Quinn was happy. It would happen for her too and she knew it; she just had to stop doubting it.
"Your agent's timing however… certainly left something to be desired," Quinn couldn't help but smile wider. She knew Rachel was frustrated; she was frustrated too. It was fucking annoying but this was a job… like a more than one episode job on a television show. A highly rated; and really popular one at that.
She at least knew that much.
She just wished she could remember which one.
"I know baby but I promise I'll make it up to you later."
"You bet your sweet ass you will," Rachel teased with a wink.
"I gotta go get ready?" Quinn said it as if was a question and then Rachel nodded.
"You do," Rachel agreed before she leaned over and captured Quinn's lips in a kiss that was becoming increasingly more heated.
"Mm," Quinn moaned around Rachel's tongue. She needed to stop this. She knew she needed to stop this but Rachel's mouth was on her and whenever that happened thinking clearly, was not her strong suit. And then Rachel's hands were sliding down her back and over her ass. She moaned again.
This time it was Rachel's phone that broke them apart when it beeped loud.
"Are you fucking kidding me?" Rachel shouted and Quinn bit back a laugh.
"Blessing in disguise babe… I have to go," Rachel blew out a puff of air and then she pouted.
"I know," she grumbled. Quinn leaned over kissed her forehead and pulled back with a grin on her lips.
"Tonight, I'll make it up to you… and hopefully we'll be celebrating my new role on…" she trailed off and Rachel bit her lip to stifle her laughter. "On… fuck," Quinn threw her hands in the air and this time Rachel did laugh.
"Yeah Quinn, only you would be so excited to be on a show that you didn't even listen to the name of."
"Fuck you."
"You will… you promised."
"I love you."
"I love yo-" Rachel's words were cut off by the phone beeping again. "Oh for fuck's sake," Quinn laughed at how much Rachel reminded her of Santana sometimes; particularly when she wasn't getting what she wanted. Quinn leaned over and gave her a quick peck.
"You get your phone and I'll get dressed," Rachel nodded and then proceeded to watch Quinn walking away. Once Quinn was out of sight she picked up her phone. She saw that she had two texts from Noah. A small smile formed as she opened the first one.
From Noah: Hey Rach, meet me at this address. It's important.
She opened the second one and saw the address. She cocked her eyebrow with wonder at whatever Noah was doing in that part of town but she shrugged it off and grabbed her coat. Noah would explain.
"Quinn, it's Noah. He wants to meet me so I'll see you later," she called across the apartment.
"Okay bye babe."
"Break a leg," she shouted and then as she left she heard Quinn thank her.
As Rachel got off the elevator and was walking through the lobby of her apartment building she got a third text from Noah; and she felt her stomach drop to her toes.
From Noah: I'll be on the roof.
"Fucking hell," she whispered as she hailed a taxi. Once she got in and gave the driver the address she punched out a quick text.
From Rachel: Why are you on the roof?
She was panicking and every second that Noah didn't reply she felt herself becoming more and more agitated and worried. When her phone finally beeped it was an incredible sound; she fumbled to open it.
From Noah: Why not? It's cool.
With those words she breathed a sigh of relief and swore she was going to smack him upside the head as soon as she saw him.
Brittany was sitting on the couch and Santana was straddling her lap as they were making out. Santana was circling her hips while Brittany's hand was slowly sliding up the back of her shirt.
"Babe… Mm," Brittany started but then Santana's tongue was in her mouth again; and all thoughts were out the window. They made out for another several minutes before Brittany pulled out of the kiss and moved her lips to Santana's neck.
"I have to work," Brittany mumbled in between kisses but Santana just rocked her hips again.
"Fuck work," she groaned holding Brittany's head in place.
"I'd rather fuck you," Brittany mumbled again and Santana moaned again.
"Do it," she challenged and since Brittany had never once backed down from a challenge she wasn't about to start now. She pushed her hand into Santana's pajama pants.
"Oh fuck… shit I'm sorry," Brody's voice rang out into the otherwise quiet apartment. Both girls looked up to see him standing near them but covering his eyes.
Brittany laughed.
Santana growled in anger.
And Brody cowered.
"Why the fuck did I let you live here again?" Santana shouted.
"Be nice San...he didn't know."
"Well, he should… He has met us before," she shouted again and again Brittany laughed. She loved frustrated Santana. Meanwhile Brody continued to blush.
"I-I-I'm sorry."
"It's fine Brody," Brittany said before she lightly shoved- a still pissed off- Santana off of her lap; and she got to her feet. "I have to work anyway," she looked down at her pouting girlfriend; who looked so ridiculously adorable while pouting. She leaned over and kissed her nose. "And we promise to be more careful about where we make out," she said to Brody who waved her off while still blushing a deep red. Brittany nodded once before she bounced into her bedroom to get ready for work.
When Brody looked back at Santana he could see her fierce glare aimed at him and again he cowered.
"You're on my list Man Candy."
"I am so sorry Santana," he pleaded and sat down on the couch beside her. The sad puppy dog look in his eyes made her melt.
Not that he needed to know that.
"So what do you got planned today… I mean besides being a giant cockblock?" He shook his head and felt sorry all over again. He knew that if he apologized again Santana would probably smack him so instead he just answered her question.
"I don't have any," he told her. "I'm off of work today."
"As dancer number 2, in this week's production of Brody's very gay adventures," she teased and he couldn't help but laugh. There was something incredibly amazing about Santana's brand of love.
But he never once doubted that she cared.
"But seriously, how is it working with…" she trailed off not wanting to say Vicky's name to him and hurt him even more.
"It sucks," he admitted. "I hate it… and I just hope that I get a job on one of the shows I recently auditioned for because if I have to look at her for much longer I don't know what's going to happen."
"Well if you need someone to help you ditch the body… I'm in," she said with a laugh and he laughed too.
"Thanks."
"No problem."
"Santana, can I take you out for lunch or something?" She met his eyes with a warm smile and nodded once.
"You may have a nice, tight body Man Candy… but it does absolutely nothing for me."
"I know," he smirked.
"Like… at… all."
"I know," he repeated and there was a comfortable silence between them before she spoke.
"Let me just get changed," she was getting to her feet when her phone rang and she jumped. When she looked at the caller she just stared.
It was different this time; she knew it.
She could feel it.
It was happening.
"What is it?"
"It's my manager," she said biting her lip for a moment. Then she hit the talk button and held it to her ear.
"Hello," Brody watched and waited patiently as she talked. He was looking for signs of disappointment.
And so far he saw none.
"Oh my god! Are you fucking serious?" Brody saw a huge grin take over her face as the person on the other end of the line told her what she apparently needed to hear. Then she squealed. "Okay! Thank you so much," she ended the call and stared at her phone for another couple of moments before looking up at her friend.
"Looks like I'm taking you to lunch Man Candy," she said with a smirk and watched his smile widen.
"And why's that?"
"Because I just got a paying gig!" He got to his feet and pulled her into a hug.
"That's awesome Santana, congratulations… you really deserve it," as he pulled out of the hug and their eyes met he could see bewilderment in her eyes.
"Thanks, it's really happening. Isn't it?"
"It is… and I'm so happy for you."
"Thanks again," she was clearly buzzing with excitement. "Okay I'm going to change now and then we are on for lunch," he nodded. "We're stopping to tell Brittany first though."
"I figured," he told her and then she was gone into her room to change. Brody sat back on the couch to wait and wondered when it would happen for him.
If it ever would.
And he wasn't even thinking about his career… he was thinking about having someone special to share any of his big news with.
Rachel was at the address that Noah had texted her and she was currently climbing the stairs to the roof while also wondering what the hell Noah was doing up there. She was also kind of nervous about what she'd find.
She wasn't worried though… well not too worried.
"Noah," she called out as she pushed the door to the roof open. She saw him sitting on a lawn chair with his guitar in his lap. There was another empty lawn chair next to him, and a cooler at his feet. Rachel rolled her eyes at herself for ever having been worried at all.
"Noah, what's going on?" She asked as she got closer to where he was sitting; which was not too close to the edge but near enough to see the city below them. He turned and looked at her with the biggest grin spread across his face.
"Hey Rach," he leaned over and pulled two beers out of his cooler. He opened and handed one to her. "Pull up a chair and join me in celebration," he motioned to the empty chair beside him as he spoke.
"Celebration of what?" She wondered but she did take the beer and the seat he offered.
"It's happening Rachel… the life we've always wanted. It's happening, and it's happening right now," she looked around herself at the roof.
"Where are we Noah? What is this place?" She knew immediately that it wasn't his apartment with Sawyer because she had been there before; but she also knew that this building wasn't a residential one. She looked back at him and watched as he took a long drink from his beer.
"Noah," she waited until his eyes were on hers again before she spoke and she could see tears swimming in them. "What's wrong?' She felt her stomach drop again.
"Nothing's wrong… and everything is right," he told her and she felt better instantly. As he talked she became more and more relaxed. "For the first time in my life things are happening. I have a good woman, a roof over my head, and enough money in my pocket. I have the best friends a guy could ask for, and now all of my dreams are coming true."
"Well good for you."
"It's because of you," he told her and watched her flush with embarrassment.
"Me?" She squeaked.
"Yes you." There was a long pause before he continued. "You taught me to never give up, to never give in to the fears and rejection. And you taught me that love is literally all that matters."
"What is this place Noah?" She asked for the third time and this time he finally answered her.
"This is the place where my band is going to practice," she nodded and a smile crept up her cheeks and as he continued to talk the smile got wider and wider. "But it's also going to be a club. The kind of club that will feature independent musicians and bands; we're even going to have open mic nights once a week. I am the proud owner of a bar slash night club Rach."
"Wh-What?" She stammered and his shining eyes landed on her again.
"It's true… Sawyer's dad is my business partner but I'm the principle owner… I'm also going to be in charge of renovating it."
"Where'd you get the money Noah?" She wondered. "I mean apart from Mr. Bishop's part in it all."
"I saved it all… from the summer tours I did with Noah Loca," he told her and watched as Rachel Berry's eyes filled with pride and it was a look he had seen before but he only ever saw it directed at him a handful of times… and it never stopped being amazing.
"Oh Noah… I am so proud of you," she pulled him into a tight hug. Once the hug was over she leaned back in her chair. She was sipping her beer which she thought was highly inappropriate for the time of day but Noah was celebrating and she was damned well going to celebrate with him.
"So what are you going to call this club?"
"I was thinking The G-Spot," he said and Rachel snorted laughter. She couldn't help it that was the last thing she was expecting to hear. But when she looked over and saw disappointment on his face she felt bad; but continued to laugh anyway.
Because it was funny.
"Oh Noah, that is so not a good idea," she told him and saw that he was pouting.
"Why not?" She thought about it for a moment because what she really wanted to say was Do you even know what or where that is? But he was her friend and she didn't want to hurt his feelings more than she already had… so instead she thought before she spoke.
"Because Noah, you want this to be a classy place… somewhere that independent bands and even some recording labels would take seriously right?" He thought about it for a moment before he nodded. She was right.
As per- fucking- usual.
"Yeah," he said nodding. "So what do you think?"
"I don't know," she replied and then they sat in silence for a little while before she thought of one. "How about The Rainbow's End?" She thought it was brilliant but when she saw the look in his eyes and the curling of his lip she felt her excitement waning.
"Don't take this the wrong way babe but that's a little gay," and she realized he was right. Everyone would assume it was a gay bar. "And not that there is anything wrong with that I just don't want people to think it's exclusively a gay club."
"No, I get it Noah," she said and relaxed in her chair again.
"How about The Hairy Nipple," he said and she snorted laughter again.
"I said classy Noah."`
"The Cougar's Den," she rolled her eyes at that one but said nothing and he merely laughed.
"Ooh, how about The Gold Star," she wondered and this time he rolled his eyes.
"How is that any less gay, babe?" He asked and she was confused for a moment before she caught his meaning.
"Well I meant me… not that but I get it."
"Aren't you though?"
"Aren't I what?"
"A gold star… in all ways," he winked and that earned him a slap against his arm.
And as they went back and forth shouting names; they were both having a great time. After a few more horrid suggestions from her and a few more dirty ones from him, he turned to look at her.
"You know," she met his eyes. "You're the first person I told about this place… I mean other than Sawyer of course."
"Well of course," she teased arrogantly and his smile widened. "But I'm honored."
"You're my family. I mean all of the glee kids are to some extent. But you… and Quinn, and Sawyer… and of course Beth… you guys are the most important things in the world to me and I never want the day to come where you're not all in my life."
"You won't have to worry about that ever Noah," she smiled warmly and he smirked. And it was that look in his eye- that Noah Puckerman- mischievous look that reminded her that she was mad at him for scaring her earlier. She leaned over and wacked him across the back of his head.
Not too hard but enough to surprise him.
"Not cool bro… what was that for?" He said while rubbing his head.
"For scaring the shit out of me earlier with the I'll be on the roof text," she used air quotes when she said it and again his smirk appeared.
"Yeah sorry about that, it's still fun to tease you sometimes."
"Yeah well don't do it again," she reprimanded and he cowered.
"Okay," they both leaned back and enjoyed the view of Manhattan in the distance while just enjoying being together.
"So what should I name it?"
"Name it after something that matters to you… something that will always matter to you," she told him and again silence fell upon them as they both thought about it.
"Beth's Hideaway," he told her and she couldn't fight the smile that came over her face. He could see it too and he knew it was perfect before he even saw her reaction.
"That's perfect Noah."
"I think so too," he said with a nod and held out his beer. She tapped his beer with hers and leaned back in her chair again; she was happy for him.
So happy.
And for Quinn, and for Kurt, and for everyone that was getting their dream.
She just couldn't wait for hers to start. She always thought she would be the biggest and brightest star of them all; and she didn't doubt that or anything but she was slowly realizing she was never the only one.
"What's going on in that head of yours?" Noah's question brought her back to him.
"I was just thinking that it's happening for everyone and I'm so proud."
"Yeah but what else," he pushed and saw her smile falter slightly.
"I'm just waiting for my turn I guess."
"Never give up Rachel," he told her and she nodded. "Never give in to those fears."
"I won't."
"Damn right you won't," he said because he knew she wouldn't.
"It's kind of nice to share the spotlight though," she said and he smiled. Anyone who ever thought Rachel Berry was selfish could suck on his left nut. He nodded and leaned over and kissed her temple.
"Hey Rach."
"Yeah?"
"Would you do me the honor of being part of the opening act for Beth's Hideaway's grand opening," her mouth dropped and she looked over at him with shock and love.
"Really?" he nodded. "What about Noah Loca?"
"Oh we'll be the house band… we'll have plenty of time to shine," she nodded. "I was thinking about asking Santana and Quinn to sing something that night as well. What do you think?"
"I think it's perfect."
"But you'll be the first," he said and she beamed.
"I would be honored," he smiled. "But I feel the need to tell you that usually the best act performs last… not first."
"Well you can do both," he shrugged and her smile widened.
"I love you bro."
"Love you right back babe," he said with a wink and sat back in his chair. Rachel watched him for a few more moments and she felt so much pride for her bro.
Her brother.
After Kurt's opening night- which was truly spectacular- everyone met back at Callbacks to celebrate him.
"I have an announcement to make," Santana said getting to her feet. All eyes landed on her. "I know we're here to celebrate Kurt," she looked at him with a proud smile on her face. "Who, let's face it… just fucking killed it in that show," he blushed brightly as everyone applauded him. "I mean it Kurt," she locked eyes with him. "You were amazing… like really fucking amazing in that role," he nodded once.
"Thank you Santana."
"You're welcome," her eyes darted around the table to all of her friends. "But now let's talk about me," they laughed and no one more than Kurt was more than happy to share in the spotlight with other members of his family. "I have some really great news to share with you all."
"Me too."
"Me too," Quinn and Puck said at the same time and then met each other's eyes. Rachel had told her all about Noah's plan and she was just as crazy about the idea as Rachel and Puck were; and she knew the rest of their friends would feel the same exact way.
"Well me first bitches," she grumbled and both Quinn and Puck nodded. "I got a call from my manager earlier and I finally got a gig. Like a real deal, paying gig," her eyes landed on Brittany. "I mean aside from those times that Brittany's bosses took a chance on me," she winked. "But this is going to be in a room full of record producers and I can't fucking wait!"
"Well we will definitely all be there to cheer you on Santana," Kurt told her.
"Definitely," Rachel agreed.
"Thanks you guys," and with that everyone congratulated and hugged her. "Okay Q… what was your news?"
"I um," she took a deep breath and looked at Rachel. She could tell that Rachel was a bit upset; she wasn't sure why exactly but she had an idea.
She pushed that to the back of her mind.
She had a plan for how to take care of that later.
Now she had to focus on herself; and her wonderful news.
"I just auditioned for… and landed a recurring role on the show Girls," there were a few gasps heard and Rachel withheld a chuckle at the fact that Quinn couldn't remember the name of the show when she first got the call. She laughed because of all the shows for her to forget, she forgot that one.
Girls.
One of Quinn's favorite things.
Rachel had teased her endlessly about it earlier and now she just chuckled quietly. Quinn knew why of course and glared at her across the table.
"Wait seriously?" Santana asked with her mouth slightly open.
"Yeah… why?" Quinn wondered; her insecurity was creeping up.
"Oh shit Q! Are you going to be the gay one?" Quinn laughed at that while also rolling her eyes at Santana's one track mind.
"No, is there even a gay character on it?" No one answered so she just continued. "It's just a guest spot… for a few episodes. I don't know all the details yet."
"Well you should be the gay one… that show needs more gay!"
"I know right," Kurt agreed.
"Maybe I am the gay one. I don't know yet," Quinn told them and Santana smiled at her.
"To Quinn," Rachel held her glass up and everyone joined her in a toast for Quinn's success. After their toast Puck got to his feet.
"Okay my turn."
"Let me guess… you knocked Sawyer up?" Santana said and Sawyer gasped.
"Bite your tongue Satan," Sawyer glared at her laughing friend. "I am sooooo not ready for babies," she caught Puck's eyes and they shared a smile. "Yet," she continued. She had never imagined herself to be the kind of girl who wanted kids but once she met Noah that changed.
And she also knew how much he wanted a family.
She knew the moment that she met Beth that she was going to give him children.
Someday…
Like a lot of years from now.
She stopped glaring at Santana when Puck started to speak again.
"So I had this brilliant idea, I shared it with Sawyer and her dad. He agreed that it would be good and became my business partner. I already talked it over with my Jew Bro who helped me come up with a name for it."
"Are you going to tell us what it is?" Blaine asked. The curiosity was getting the better of him.
"Yeah," he looked to his feet. He could feel the blush spreading all over his face. It was one thing to tell Rachel, and he knew she'd tell Quinn but this was everyone. His whole family- well most of them- were here and this was nerve wracking.
"Well," Kurt prompted and he took a deep breath before he told them.
"I'm going to open a bar slash night club that will feature independent and unsigned bands and singers," he waited and watched as the news settled over them. He watched their reactions and was pleased when they were all positive.
"That's awesome dude," Mike was the first one to speak and everyone else followed suit with congratulations.
"Thanks guys," Puck was blushing but he didn't even care.
"Do you have a name picked out yet?" Brittany wondered.
"Yeah," he paused and took a deep breath.
"It's probably something lame like The Landing Strip," Santana cut him off and Puck giggled. He couldn't help it; sometimes his inner twelve year old snuck out. "Seriously Puckerman I was kidding… please tell me that is not it."
"No it's not, it was just funny."
"Oh, well what is it then?"
"Beth's Hideaway," he answered and saw her smile and nod. Brittany and Kurt both awed and as he looked around he saw pride in Rachel and Sawyer's eyes but when he looked at Quinn he saw something more than pride.
Sure she was looking at him with pride in her eyes but there was something else there too… and it was awe.
She was in awe of the man he had become; he was every bit the kind of man that Beth deserved for a father and she was glad Beth had him.
"Do you have a place yet?" Brody asked breaking his staring contest with Quinn; and his eyes darted to Rachel before he answered.
"Yeah, I signed the lease this morning. "It's a small building in SoHo. I got it cheap because it needs a full renovation that I will be doing myself."
"Hey well if you need help with that I'll do it," Brody offered. "For a lot less than you'd pay professionals."
"Cool bro… but do you know what you're doing?" Brody nodded.
"Yeah I worked construction and roofing back in Montana during the summers. Puck nodded again.
"Yeah dude that's good. You probably know more than I do."
"You're definitely going to want to hire a contractor just for the professionalism but having me helping will save on labor."
"Awesome dude, I accept," Puck told him and Brody nodded.
"I'll help too," Mike offered and Puck smiled at him.
"Me too," Rachel's voice rang out and all eyes landed on hers. "What?"
"Baby," Quinn tried but quickly shut up when Rachel's fierce glare landed on her.
"C'mon Rach," Puck said with a laugh and then he felt her smack him upside the head.
"Are you implying that I can't do it?" She asked and when he nodded she hit him again. "Seriously Noah… if someone offers to help… you thank them and accept."
"I accept," he told her; for two reasons.
One because of the smile it brought to her face over the idea of helping and two because he didn't want to get hit again.
"To Puck," Kurt raised his glass again and again everyone followed suit. After their toast everyone sat down and started to talk amongst themselves. Rachel walked over to where Quinn was sitting and sat on her lap.
"So you're not mad at me anymore?"
"Like I ever was," Rachel told her. "I'm so proud of you," Quinn's smile widened at those words.
"Thank you Rachel and I'm proud of you too," she saw Rachel's eyebrows lift in confusion so she elaborated. "For offering to help Puck." Rachel rolled her eyes.
"I thought you were going to say it was a bad idea," Quinn shook her head no.
"No… I mean I'm worried that you might get hurt but not really because you're a tough, and incredible woman," Rachel smiled. "And think of how hot you'll look as a construction worker."
"Always in the gutter Quinn," Rachel said.
"Think about it babe," at her words Rachel pictured herself covered in sweat and dirt, coming home in her overalls, and being promptly fucked by Quinn.
"Mm," Rachel moaned and Quinn's smiled widened.
"You're thinking about it," Rachel nodded. "Against the door?"
"Mm," she shook her head no. "The shower."
"Ooh I like that," Quinn leaned in for a kiss and Rachel kissed her back with gusto. As they kissed the DJ called Quinn's name over the microphone and Rachel pulled out of the kiss.
"You're singing tonight?"
"I am," Quinn told her and tapped her legs so that Rachel would get off her lap.
"When did you… when did you put your name in?"
"When we first got here… when I got our drinks," Rachel smiled as she remembered that Quinn had left right before they congratulated Kurt.
"What are you singing?"
"You'll see. " Quinn kissed her nose before she made her way to the stage where she was greeted with a round of applause.
"Thank you… this song is for my girlfriend Rachel." Her eyes landed on Rachel who smiled up at her. "It'll happen for you too… and soon, I promise baby." Rachel melted… there was something magical about Quinn's unwavering loyalty and belief in her; even those times when she didn't believe in herself.
Quinn was the reason she would never give up, and would never give in.
As soon as the music began Rachel held back a squeal of excitement. She loved whenever Quinn sang Broadway songs.
Almost as much as when Quinn sang Barbra songs.
Quinn eyes locked on her own and didn't waver once for the entire song.
If you believe
Within your heart you'll know
That no one can change
The path that you must go
Believe what you feel
And know you're right, because
The time will come around
When you say it's yours
Believe there's a reason to be
Believe you can make time stand still
You know from the moment you try
If you believe
I know you will
Believe in yourself, right from the start
You'll have brains
You'll have a heart
You'll have courage
To last your whole life through
Rachel smiled because she was right, the song was right. She didn't know why she ever let her insecurities cloud her mind. She knew it would happen for her just like it was happening for everyone. Her dream come true was waiting for her. As Quinn finished the song she fought the urge to go on stage and throw herself at the girl; she fought it because that would happen later.
And often.
If you believe in yourself
If you believe in yourself
If you believe in yourself
As I believe in you
The crowd was on their feet as Quinn thanked them and made her way over to her friends who were also on their feet cheering; Rachel the loudest. When she got closer she found herself being nearly tackled by her tiny girlfriend.
"Thank you so much Quinn," she whispered into Quinn's ear and then met her eyes. "How did you even know?"
"I always know… because I know you Rachel," and Rachel nodded knowingly before she captured Quinn's lips with her own for a heated kiss that ended when Puck, Brody, and Santana of all people were wolf whistling.
"Enough you guys," Quinn said leading Rachel over to the table and taking her seat; Rachel taking her own special seat on Quinn's lap.
"So, what were we talking about?" Quinn said.
"Mostly how whipped you are," Sawyer replied and everyone laughed.
"Also how pathetic I am," Brody cut in and Quinn frowned at his unfortunate luck with the ladies.
"No we were not, and you're not pathetic Man Candy… well except for your taste in women," Santana said with a laugh. She knew he was hurting but she also knew that laughter was the best medicine.
"Yeah half of which you picked out for me," Brody shot back.
"Oooh burn," Kurt said and Santana's appalled expression landed on him.
"Never again Kurt," the group laughed. "No seriously… never… say that… again," she paused dramatically and Kurt blushed.
"I thought it was cute babe," Blaine said rubbing his shoulder.
"You think everything he does is cute," Santana sneered.
"Because it is," Blaine defended and then got lost in Kurt's eyes only breaking contact when Santana started to make gagging sounds. Everyone laughed and then someone started to pick on Santana.
It was love, in its purest form.
Because nothing says love like endlessly teasing each other.
As they were all lost in the conversation no one noticed that Quinn and Rachel were lost in each other.
"I know I come off as selfish sometimes," Rachel said and Quinn shook her head no. "Hear me out babe."
"Okay."
"I know at least to an outsider it looks as though I'm jealous of my friends' successes and that is so not true… but I am envious. I don't begrudge them anything. I just want to be right alongside them… succeeding too," Quinn nodded because she knew all this. "I want to be right there beside you Quinn, where I belong."
"You are."
"I mean professionally."
"You will be, I have no doubt and you shouldn't either."
"I know… and I don't," Quinn arched her stupid eyebrow and Rachel became instantly turned on. "Well I won't anymore."
"Good girl."
"But can we please get out of here because I am so hot for you and you promised me you would make it up to me for our interruption this morning."
"Can it wait? I don't want to ditch our friends," Quinn asked nicely and Rachel shook her head no.
"How about a compromise?"
"I'm listening."
"Meet me in the bathroom," Rachel said with a wink before she hopped off of Quinn's lap and headed to the bathroom.
I love compromise- Quinn thought as she got to her feet to follow Rachel. Once inside Rachel pushed her into the biggest stall and locked the door behind them.
"I love compromise," Quinn told her as Rachel pushed her into the wall and went to work on the button of her jeans.
"I love naughty bathroom sex," Rachel said and Quinn could only nod because Rachel's hand was pushing into her panties.
Sometimes it was still fun to act like a kid.
"Oh fuck Rachel," she whispered breathlessly.
"Mm exactly," Rachel whispered before covering her lips and pushing her fingers deep inside.
They eventually got back to celebrating with their friends; who barely even noticed their absence.
Or maybe they were just used to it.
Either way, Rachel and Quinn didn't mind.
Nor would they ever.
A/N 2: The song that Quinn sang to Rachel was Believe in Yourself from The Wiz and the title of the chapter comes from the song Win by Bryan McKnight.