A Very Puckleberry Redo

by gilesc3

Ever wonder what would have happened if Rachel hadn't rejoined Glee in "The Rhodes Not Taken"? Well, this is a look at how that decision would have changed the lives of not only Rachel, but the entire Glee club. Will be AU, but not completely. ON HIATUS

13. Chapter 13

AN: You guys are so awesome! I love you soooo much! All your reviews made one happy author, let me tell you. I just love each and every one of you that took the time to leave a comment! So keep up the good work!

SUZANNE: Thanks so much for the review. I'm so glad you like the story so much. I'm trying to keep the updates coming while also continuing my Klophia story, so fingers crossed for quick updates. It just takes some time to write 30 page chapters every time, so please bear with me.

Guest (1): Thanks for the review. I don't know how I could update any faster, with writing other stories, but I'll try. Cheating is something that has zero tolerance in my own life, so I doubt I'd bring it in to the story. But no promises because I don't know how the story is going to turn out as I write it. Hope you like the chapter and leave more comments!

BERRY vs LOVE: Don't worry, I don't tolerate cheating in my life so I doubt I'd put it in the story. I base a lot of the things in this story, besides the obvious things from the show, from my own life, so it shouldn't happen. Although I can't promise anything because I don't really know how the story is going to evolve. I'm going to bring Shelby in like in the show, but I'm not sure yet about the result. Thanks for the suggestions and I'll keep them in mind! Hope you like this chapter and please feel free to leave more feedback!

Guest (2): I know Finn and Quinn getting involved gets old, but I was hoping to show Finn as he's depicted in the show. He always wants Rachel or Quinn when they're with someone else and happy, so I just think he's a bit of a douche. But Puckleberry is the only pairing I'll support, so if they do cause problems know it's only to further the story along. Thanks for the review!

Guest (3): Thanks for reviewing! I'm so glad you like the story and the way I've portrayed the characters. I will be incorporating flashbacks hopefully soon.

Guest (4): Thanks for the review!

MollieeeeeeXOXO: I haven't read the story, Mistaken Virginity, so any relation is purely coincidental. I really just thought up the camp thing partway through chapter two. I'll be sure to read it, but not until after I've written my flashback, as I don't want someone else's work to influence mine. Cheers.

Disclaimer: I don't own Glee or anything related to the show or the songs I've chosen. This is a work of fiction and I sadly making my no profits other than a happy brain.

Chapter 13: Return to School

"Are you sure we should wear our uniforms? I mean, Coach has been suspended so there's no telling how long she'll be gone." Rachel said into the phone, pulling out one of her Cheerios uniforms and laying it on her bed.

"I'm sure, chica. I've already sent out the text saying there's a mandatory practice today after school, so you best be in uniform. I gotta go pick up Britt. Tootles."

"Bye." Shaking her head at her friend, Rachel clicked her phone shut and tossed it next to her uniform before heading into the bathroom to put her hair up and a little make on. When she made it back into her room, she had to clutch her hand over her mouth to stop the yell of shock from escaping.

"Mornin' babe." Puck said, casually lying against her pillows. How does he keep sneaking up on her like this?!

"Noah! You scared the life out of me! What are you doing here?" Rachel asked once she'd gotten control over herself.

"You're dads let me in. And I'm driving you to school." He said the last part in such a way that was basically asking if she was stupid. Which she was not.

"But today is Monday, and you work on Mondays." Rachel said, frowning at him, not liking the tone he had used. She was in the top ten of their class, so it was quite apparent that she was anything but stupid. Annoying boy.

"Burt let me have today off, first day back and all. And since you dropped your dance class after practice, we can ride home together." Puck said with a shrug, a boyishly pleased smile appearing, making it impossible for her to remain cross.

"Oh, well that was very thoughtful of you."

Rolling his eyes, Puck got off the bed and sauntered over to her. Rachel titled her head back to look up at him and he took the opportunity to kiss her good morning, his strong arms wrapping around her small body to pull her flush against him.

Sighing into the kiss, Rachel twined her arms around his neck and returned the kiss, knowing they wouldn't have a lot of chances for this once they got to school. Well…not that school had ever stopped Puck before.

When they pulled apart, Rachel's face was flushed and Puck's eyes had gone hot, lust pulsing through their bodies in some unknown pattern. Puck brought a hand up to lightly brush her cheek, amazed that he could still find her so damn sexy after months of dating. Who'd have thought that the Puckzilla could be a commitment type of guy? Fuck to hell not him, that's for sure.

"Better get dressed or we're gonna be late cuz I won't be able to keep my hands to myself." Puck mumbled, making Rachel blush deeper before she stepped back to get some space. He was just so intoxicating, from his smell to his caress, that it was hard to think clearly when she was around him.

"Yes, right." Puck smirked at her muttered words, moving back to sit on the bed so he could watch her.

Acutely aware of his gaze, Rachel pulled off her robe and hid a smile at his low groan at the sight of her naked body. Moving to her dresser, she pulled open her drawer and took out a set with a black sports bra and matching underwear. They weren't very sexy, but it was the best choice for going on under the cheerleading uniform, especially considering they'd have a practice that afternoon.

"When does basketball tryouts begin?" Rachel questioned, trying to keep Puck's mind occupied so he didn't say to the hell with school and pounce on her. While she loved the way he was affected by her, she didn't want to be late for school.

"Uh…Coach T already picked the guys off the team he wants. Not really a tryout thing, since most of the jocks were on the football team. There are a couple of guys that only play basketball, so they were put on there. Coach T doesn't really care anymore, since Ms. P got together with Mr. S and all." Puck said with a disinterested shrug. He really could give two craps about his teachers' social lives.

"Oh, well at least you know you've made the team. I hope you have better luck this season than you boys did for football." Rachel said, pulling on her spanks, followed by her skirt.

"Doubtful, babe. Finn's on the team, which means we'll suck." Giving a small laugh at his words, Rachel slid into her long-sleeved white undershirt and top before zipping it closed. Once dressed, she moved over to plant herself in Puck's lap, arms looping around his neck and leaning down for a quick kiss.

"Poor baby. Well I'll be there for every game, so try and play decently, alright? We might have to come up with a reward system if you begin doing too poorly." Large hands coming up to cup her hips, Puck arched a brow.

"What type of system?" Rachel smiled and kissed him again, lingering over his full lips for a few minutes before pulling back.

"I'm not sure at the moment. I'll have to diagram it and get back to you." Groaning, Puck pulled her back to him, his tongue seeking hers out. Rachel allowed the kiss to last for a while before she pulled away and got off his lap, heading back to her dresser to get socks.

"Have things improved with Finn since my visit with him?" She knew it was a sore topic, as Puck had been pissed when she'd told him about her seeing Finn and the tall boy's alarming actions. But she really wanted the two to get back in good graces with each other.

"No, he's still being a douche. I shoulda clocked him about puttin' his hands on you." He replied darkly, glaring down at his hands, as if imagining them connecting with Finn's face.

"I told you it was probably nothing, but I felt I needed to tell you to maintain our honesty agreement. I'm sure nothing more will come of it, as Finn knows I'm perfectly happy in our relationship. I just hope you two can work your differences out sooner or later, as I hate seeing you so sad. I'm thankful you have Mathew and Michael to keep you company, though." Rachel said, giving him a small smile as she sat down to pull her sneakers on.

"Don't hold your breath, babe. Finn can be stubborn when he wants to be. So is Satan makin' you practice?" Puck asked, nodding towards the uniform now covering her creamy skin, much to his displeasure.

"Yes, Santana has demanded we all show up today in uniform, as she won't let us slack off until Coach gets back. I think it's actually a very good idea, as our Nationals are right before the Glee club's Regionals, so we need to remain in tiptop shape. I'd hate to imagine what would happen if Coach came back and saw we'd been slacking." Giving a little shudder of fear, Rachel grabbed her Cheerios coat and put it on before grabbing her book bag and sports bag.

"I'll take those out to the truck. Get somethin' to eat." Puck said, taking the bags out of her hands and heading downstairs.

Smiling at his chivalrous actions, Rachel grabbed her phone off her bed and bounded downstairs to grab a couple of the vegan blueberry muffins she'd made the night before. Deciding to also have some coffee, Rachel filled up a thermos and wrapped the muffins in a paper towel before leaving the house, making sure to lock up after her.

Seeing Puck already waiting in the running vehicle, Rachel carefully made her way to him, not willing to rush and slip on ice, as that would just be a disaster. When she reached the truck, Puck reached over to help her into the cab.

"I've got blueberry muffins and coffee!" She said with a smile, showing him her booty. Giving out an appreciative noise, Puck took the thermos from her hands and took a swig, glad for the caffeine, since it was so fucking early.

"Thanks babe."

Rachel gave a cute little nod, setting the muffins in the space between them as she buckled up. Puck put the thermos in a cup holder and reached for a muffin, stuffing it in his mouth before throwing the car in reverse.

Rachel munched happily on her own muffin, delighted with how the day had started out. Hopefully it was a sign about how the new school semester was going to be like.

/*/

"Hey Ray!" Brittany said in excitement, pulling the small diva out of Puck's grasp to give her a hug. Rachel laughed as she hugged her friend back, hoping nothing ever changed Brittany's happy disposition.

"Good morning Brittany, Santana." Rachel said, pulling back from the blonde to smile at the Latina.

"Monin' B." Santana mumbled, cup of gas station coffee in hand as she tried to wake up. The first day back from break was always a bitch, especially with how fucking cold it was.

"So how's Puckleberry doing?" Brittany asked with a wide smile, missing the eye roll Puck sent her at the nickname. Rachel had to bite back another laugh, knowing how much Puck disliked the name, turning to grab Puck's hand in hers.

"We're just fine, Brittany, thank you for asking. How are you and Michael?" Rachel asked as Puck threw an arm over her shoulder, even though he couldn't be more disinterested in the conversation. He was just waiting for them to either shut up or his boys to show up.

"Oh we stopped seeing each other. I mean…we still see each other, but not like…on dates and stuff." The blonde trailed off, her face scrunching up in confusion. Santana linked her arm with Brittany's, offering her silent support.

"Oh, I'm so sorry Brittany!" Rachel said, leaving Puck's side to slide in next to Brittany's other one. Puck rolled his eyes, knowing a chick talk was coming on.

Wanting to get the hell outta dodge, Puck leaned down to kiss Rachel and whispered a bye before making his way down the hallway, pleased when some dweebs scurried out of his way in fear.

Rachel watched him saunter down the hallway before turning back to her friend, the three girls beginning to walk towards the choir room to talk before school started.

"It's cool, Lord Tubbington said it was coming. Besides, now I can see other guys without hurting Mike's feelings." If Rachel had thought she'd be heartbroken over the breakup, she should have known better. This was Brittany after all, and she wasn't really a one-boy type of girl.

"I'm still sorry that your relationship has come to an end. Are you sure you're alright with it?" Rachel questioned as they passed by the piano.

"Yep! Plus, I think he kinda likes that other Asian girl." Brittany said, twirling out of Rachel's and Santana's grasp to dance around the room to her own inner music. Sharing a look, Rachel and Santana were bemused by Brittany's positive attitude.

"You think Michael likes Tina?"

"Who's Tina?" Brittany asked, stopping mid twirl to look at the small girl in confusion. Trying to stop herself from giggling, Rachel sat down at the piano and started tapping the keys.

"Tina is the other Asian in Glee club, Britt."

"Oh. Okay." Brittany shrugged before pulling Santana into a dance, making the Latina laugh. Thankfully she'd set the coffee down on the piano, or else the hot liquid would have surely been all over them by now.

"C'mon Ray!" Brittany called out. Shaking her head in amusement, Rachel joined the two girls.

Laughing as they spun around the room, Rachel couldn't help but send up a silent thank you for finally finding people who accepted her and wanted to be her friends. She didn't know where'd she'd be right now if Brittany hadn't sat down at her table that day, or if Santana hadn't warmed up to her. She'd probably still be pining away for Finn and trying to change herself to meet with his approval.

Thank goodness she'd found real friends and a boyfriend who liked her just as she was. It's a little terrifying to think about how much she'd have been willing to sacrifice to fit in if not for those three. How much of Rachel Berry she'd have thrown away, never to be found again.

/*/

"Move it RuPaul!"

Turning, Rachel was shocked to be suddenly pushed into the classroom door as Quinn made her way past. Sharing a surprised look with Kurt and Brittany, the three watched at the blonde girl made her way down the hallway, Queen Bitch face firmly in place.

"Guess it was too much to hope she'd stay nice." Kurt said as he lightly pulled Rachel away from the door.

"Yes, I guess so. We had better get going to lunch." Rachel replied, a little hurt that the bitch was back. She'd held no thoughts about her and Quinn ever being friends, as she couldn't stand the other cheerleader, but she hadn't expected her to revert back to her old ways entirely.

"Quinn's a meanie." Brittany muttered, looping her arm through Rachel's and following them towards the cafeteria.

"That's alright, Britt. The rest of the Glee club is our friend, so Quinn doesn't matter. Once she sees that we're not affected by her actions, she'll grow bored." Rachel assured, giving the ditzy blonde a smile as they made their way into the busy cafeteria.

"Okay!" Brittany smiled back before dashing over to the table that now housed the Glee club, minus Finn and Quinn. It was the first time that they'd all been seated together, with the jocks and geeks mixed all around the table so that there was no clear separation.

Grinning at the site, Rachel moved over to sit in the vacant seat next to Puck. He looked up from his burger to smile at her and give her a light kiss; he'd have gone for a longer one, but since he'd gone out for McDonalds, he knew she'd be too grossed out to really kiss him. Sometimes he hated she was a vegan, as it got in the way of his macking.

"Hey babe."

"Hello, Noah. I trust your morning classes were good and you were excused to go and grab something to eat?" Rachel asked, the amusement in her voice belying the words. He just gave her a smirk; answering her question and making her shake her head.

She should be appalled he'd blow of class for a cheeseburger, but this was Noah Puckerman. And besides, he'd been doing amazing in school, and it was the first day, so she doubted he missed much.

"Just brush your teeth if you want to kiss me." Rachel said, making him pout.

Throwing an arm around her, Puck tried to get her to kiss him, making the small girl burst into giggles as he continued to dive for her mouth only to be pushed away. The rest of the table sent them amused looks before going back to their own conversations, too used to the pair to be surprised.

/*/

"Alright, listen up bitches, Coach might not be here but that doesn't mean we can just slack off. We've got a pep rally on Friday and need to have a routine put together. Since the Glee club isn't meeting yet and the basketball team is using the gym, we'll be meeting here all week until the assembly. Comprendé?"

The Cheerios looked around at each other before nodding, not willing to usurp the crazy Latina. Rachel saw Quinn roll her eyes and cross her arms and wondered if the Ice Queen would be vying for her spot back now that the who baby drama was done with. Shrugging, Rachel turned back to give an encouraging smile to her friend from her spot next to Brittany on the auditorium stage.

"Since we don't have that long to practice, the routine is gonna have to be simpler than normal. B, I was thinkin' Rihanna would be a good choice, since she's got good dance beats." Santana said, handing her iPod to the short diva so she could see the song she'd chosen.

"Really? Isn't this a little…inappropriate?" Rachel asked, eyes widening as she glanced up at her captain.

"It's easy to cerograph a routine to, so we're doing it. C'mon girls, let's get started." Santana replied, snatching the device back up and sauntering over to put it in the stand. The brunette would just have to get over her hesitancy if she wanted to be the one to perform, as Santana would not hesitate to step in on vocals if Rachel couldn't do it.

/*/

"So how was basketball practice?" Rachel asked as Puck helped her up into his truck before moving around the hood to join her.

"We're doomed, but I already knew that." Puck said with a shrug, pulling her over until she rested against his side with an arm over her shoulders. Instead of putting up any resistance, Rachel snuggled closer to him as he started the engine and pulled out of the parking lot.

"I'm sure it will improve, as today was only the first practice. Have a little faith, Noah." He grunted, which made her smile against his chest.

"We'll need a miracle to win on Friday. Or for Finn to get body swapped with Colby or somethin'. Dude is terrible." Puck shook his head; remember how the tall boy had practically tripped over his own feet. How Finn got to be the lead in everything when he sucked so much was something Puck would never understand.

"Poor Noah." Rachel murmured, leaning up so she could give his earlobe a light tug. His arm tightened around her shoulder, and Rachel had to stop herself from crawling into his lap at the look he sent her.

"Better stop baby, or we're gonna get in an accident." His voice had gone low and gruff, sending shivers up and down her back.

"I guess you're right, Noah. I would hate to be the cause of distraction for you. It's best if you focus entirely on driving." Rachel said, hiding her grin as she moved out from under his arm to her own seat, buckling in. Puck let out a groan, wanting to punch himself in the face for opening his big mouth.

"Baby-"

"No, Noah, you were correct. The moving vehicle is no place to let our hormones get the better of us." Rachel said firmly, biting her lip to keep her amusement concealed as Puck pouted like a toddler who was denied his favorite toy.

"Fine. But you're all mine when we get to your house, babe." Puck said, sending her a smoldering look that had her heart picking up its pace.

"I would expect nothing less, Puckerman." He smirked at her when she used his last name, knowing she was already getting hot and bothered. Oh, it was so on.

/*/

"Berry, will you stop it already?" Puck groaned, covering his face with an arm as his girlfriend continued to prattle on and on.

"No, not until you agree with me, Noah. Since you were so willing to take that photo with me for the Thunderclap, you must have also realized that you were signing up to be my co-captain. And with all the drama, I wasn't really paying attention to it, but now I realize that Finn has continued to be the male lead, which is not right.

"As the co-captain, you should have more chances at taking lead in our weekly and competitive numbers, something you have not fought for. Now, I realize that Glee wasn't that important to you when this all started, but you've acknowledged that you love it and you the co-captain, so I do not see why you wish to remain in the background.

"You have a remarkable voice, Noah. One that is continuously ignored by our director in favor of Finn's, which is not fair at all. I've sucked up my own pride and allowed others to perform lead when their voices have proven to do the songs better justice, and I am annoyed that Finn has not done the same.

"You are just as much a member of the club as he is, no matter why you joined in the first place. So until you agree to demand more solos, I will not stop bringing it up. I am not sure what you wish to do once we graduate, but if it has anything to do with music, then you're going to need the experience and credits on your transcript to stand out. You are being so difficult is irritating, to be frank."

Puck just grumbled as Rachel ranted, glaring down at him from her kneeling position next to his legs. How they'd managed to have hot, sweaty sex one minute and then she began rambling about him needing to sing more, he had no fucking clue. Only Rachel Berry could do a 180 like that. It was fucking messed up.

"Baby, can't you just drop it. Finn's the lead and that's that." He knew before he'd even finished that he'd done zero to calm her down, which was proven by the annoyed huff that sounded.

"Finn is the lead merely because he was the first qualified male lead to come into the club, Noah. You've worked extremely hard to improve your vocals and I hate that you're just letting Finn take the spotlight because it's easier. If you didn't want to be my singing partner, than why did you write that song for me?"

Puck sighed before sitting up, knowing she wasn't going to let this go. When he saw her eyes beginning to tear up in frustration, he knew he had to act quickly if he didn't want a diva fit. She'd mellowed out a lot since they'd gotten together, but this was still Rachel Berry, drama queen extraordinaire.

"After the shit I did, don't you think it's fair that he gets the lead?" So he might hate that Finn was always seen as the best, but he'd still fucked up and betrayed the guy.

"Not at all, Noah Puckerman. You made a mistake and are paying for it by losing his friendship. That does not in any way translate into him automatically getting solos and lead vocals on songs simply because he was the wounded party.

"To be perfectly honest, while at first I was blinded by a fairytale image of him, Finn is not leading man material. He never sticks up for the club…he was even going to slushy Kurt before Kurt did it for him! He chose football over Glee and is constantly worried about what it's doing to his reputation. That is not how a male lead should treat the club he's a part of.

"No, a real leader says to the hell with what others think and take the picture with their high maintenance girlfriend. They chose Glee because they love music and have accepted that it's an intricate part of their persons. A leading man isn't afraid to be seen with the clubbers at lunch, where the rest of the school can see him. A lea-"

"Ok ok! Jeez." Puck cut her off, his face a deep crimson. He couldn't believe she really thought so much of his actions. Rachel slowly closed her mouth but gave him an arched brow, as if questioning rather he was going to refute her words.

"If it means that much, than I guess we can talk to Schue. He'll probably say no, since he's in love with Finn and all. Douche." The last part was muttered but Rachel just gave him a beaming smile before jumping on him, her arms winding around his neck.

"Thank you, thank you, thank you. You'll be amazing!" She said happily, giving him kisses between each word. Puck rolled his eyes at her, but he couldn't help but be pleased with making her so happy. And the way she was bouncing around on his lap was fucking awesome.

"Yeah, yeah. Just don't tell anyone about this. I mean it, Rach, not anyone." He said sternly with a pointed finger, which only made Rachel snort before sealing their lips together. She loved getting her way.

/*/

"Mr. Schuester, could I please speak with you?" Rachel asked, head peering around the door to see into his office. The Spanish teacher just waved a beckoning hand, never looking up from the papers in his hands.

"What can I do for you, Rachel?"

"Well, seeing as you have not arranged for the club to meet in the next few days, I thought I would take the opportunity to speak with you with regards to the club's vocals. Now, I know that you have this…comradely bond with Finn, what with both of you suffering from baby drama from your exes-"

"Rachel, what do you want?" Mr. Schuester asked with a sigh, setting the papers down to look up at her, the irritation clear. He'd been trying to be better about his attitude since their discussion, but sometimes she really just got on his last nerve. Like Terri used to.

"I am trying to say that you have allowed Finn to remain behind the reins for too long. We have an ample amount of male talent in this club that is often ignored in favor of Finn. Now, while I admit that his vocals and mine do mesh very well together, that is no reason to simply give him the lead every time. I have already proven that I will give up a solo if it can be sung better by another individual, but Finn has not.

"I think it would be prudent for you to begin looking at other males for the leads in songs, as you're doing the entire club a disservice by ignoring them. I have been working with Noah, Michael, and Mathew for months on their voices, and they have improved drastically. Not that you would know, as you continue to push them to the background harmonies that do not show how much they have improved.

"Not to mention, Finn has done absolutely nothing to benefit the club, which is very unbecoming of a male lead. Added to that, Noah is actually my co-captain, in case that has slipped your mind, and hasn't been given the chance to show how talented he is. He-"

"Puck's your co-captain?" Really, that was all he took from what she'd just said? Typical.

"Yes, Mr. Schuester, as you should know. He was the only one willing to take the Thunderclap picture with me, and that made him the other captain by default."

"But Quinn got us the page spread, so that doesn't really matter." Huffing in irritation, Rachel crossed her arms over her chest and glared at him.

"Actually, you'd already paid for the quarter page, so I made sure Figgins kept it. And Quinn's actions do not negate my vote into captaincy or Noah's thoughtful actions. I realize that you're very overwhelmed with your new relationship with Ms. Pillsbury, but you're lack of attention to the Glee club is alarming and very disrespectful. Noah will be singing lead in the next group number to show how talented he is." Rachel said before turning on her heel and marching away, her Cheerios skirt flaring out in her anger.

Mr. Schuester just stared after her, not really sure what had just happened. How could she demand something like that? He was the director! Finn was their best shot at Regionals, so he didn't see why she would try to jeopardize that. Stupid girl.

Standing up in his own irritation, Will headed towards Emma's office, needing to get this off his chest. And see her. She looked really pretty today.

/*/

"So I have spoken to Mr. Schuester, and while he is still stuck in his limited thinking, I have made sure you get lead in the next group number." Rachel said as he pulled her towards a broom closet, wanting some alone time before lunch ended.

"S'cool babe. Thanks for tryin'." Puck murmured before pulling her into the small space and shutting the door.

"It's certainly not 'cool', Noah. The fact that he-"

"Let's not talk 'bout Schue." Puck said, lips skimming over her lips as he picked her up so she could wrap her legs around his hips. Rachel's breathe caught as he ground against her, biting her lip to keep from making any noise so as not to alert those in the hallway of their actions.

"Noah, we're in school!" She whispered, cheeks blazing red as he started running his hands up her thighs.

"So?" He smirked at her, arching a brow before claiming her lips in a brutal kiss. Rachel whimpered against his lips before letting his tongue slip into her mouth, wrapping her arms around him to keep him where he was.

Smirking into the kiss, Puck pushed her skirt up and used one hand to push her spanks and underwear to the side so he could trace her folds. She shuddered against him; Rachel couldn't stop her hips from giving a little jerk, trying to find more friction.

"I got you babe." Puck mumbled when he pulled back, his breath starting to shorten at the sexy sounds coming from his girl.

Letting a finger delve deeper, he had to kiss her again to swallow her moan as the digit sank into her tightness. After a few thrusts, Rachel was panting and her eyes had glazed over as she stared at him, silently begging him to pound her into the wall. Which he was all too happy to do.

Quickly unzipping himself, Puck pulled his cock out of his pants and fumbled with his wallet until he'd gotten the condom out. Leaning forward, Rachel used the wall to support herself as she ran her hands over Puck's arms and neck.

"Quick Noah." At her breathless words, Puck had to pause for a minute unless he wanted to tear the damn latex in his haste. Swallowing, he finally managed to get himself covered before grasping her hips and meeting her lustful gaze.

Rachel threw her head back, wincing a little as she hit the wall, as he was suddenly filling her, reaching so far inside she thought he'd split her open. Clutching onto his shoulders, Rachel mewled as he started thrusting into her, the sensations quickly getting the best of her. The fact that they were in school and could get caught just made it that much more enticing.

"Fuck, you're so tight." Puck groaned, hips moving frantically as he neared his release. Normally he'd be all about making the pleasure last but he knew she'd freak if she was late for class, so he had to try and do this as quick as possible. Good thing he was used to quickies while in school.

"Noah! Harder!" At her words, he had to fight against just bursting. Instead, he clenched onto his resolve and thundered into her. It was all too much for her, and her walls were clenching around him within a few minutes and a very loud moan sounded before he could cut it off with his lips.

"Fuck." Puck pulled away from her as his nads tightened up and he cock started pulsing, his orgasm rocking through his body. The two stayed connected for a couple of minutes, trying to catch their breath. When they had finally calmed down, Puck pulled out and let Rachel's feet once more touch the floor.

"Hang on." Rachel said, snagging her bag to rifle through it before she pulled out some baby wipes. She handed him one with a smile before blushing and using one on herself, not wanting to be uncomfortable for the rest of school. When she was satisfied, Rachel pulled a small plastic bag from her Mary Poppins bag and put the used wipe inside.

"Here, put them in here." Rachel said, giving him the bag to toss the condom and wipe inside. How she came prepared with literally everything, while completely demented, really came in handy.

"Thanks babe." Puck muttered, tied up the bag and fixed his clothes. Rachel smoothed out her uniform and gave herself a little squirt of body spray before turning to him with a beaming smile.

"We'd better get going as I have a quiz in English." Grabbing her hand, Puck leaned in to give her a light kiss.

"Wouldn't want you to be late." Rolling her eyes at his amused tone, Rachel slowly pulled the door open and stepped out, Puck following behind her. Only to be met with the wide eyes of a hallway full of students.

"Shit B, that sounded like you had a good time." Santana said with a smirk as her and Matt passed by, making the already embarrassed diva flush deeper.

"Shut it, Lopez." Puck said, pulling until Rachel was tucked under his arm. Ignoring the looks and whispers, Puck led her towards her English class, whispering soothing words into her hair along the way.

/*/

"Michael, could I ask you something?" Rachel whispered as the teacher took up their quizzes.

It'd taken her that long to get over her mortification, and Rachel was determined to get her question answered before she started getting teased again. Not that she was embarrassed about being with Puck, not at all. She just hadn't realized that everyone would have heard what they'd gotten up to; thank goodness there hadn't been a teacher around.

"Sure Rach." Mike said, glancing away from watching Artie and Tina chatting.

"I was wondering if you might be willing to start helping Noah with his dancing?" At Mike's surprised look, she rushed a head.

"You see, I have requested that Mr. Schue give him, along with the other boys, more chances to sing lead instead of Finn getting every part. To complete his male lead role, Noah needs to improve his dancing techniques. Thankfully, he's already better than Finn, but that's not exactly difficult to achieve.

"So I was hoping, since I've been working with you on your singing, you wouldn't mind helping him with dancing. Of course, he can't know it's 'help', so maybe you could just pull him into dancing or something? Maybe Mathew would be willing to lend a hand as well?" Thinking it over, Mike gave a shrug.

"Sure, I don't see why not. You've helped us a lot, so it's only fair that we repay you somehow. I'll talk to Matt, but I'm sure he'll be on board. And we could just start doing it once he comes over after work on Sundays, since we're already there."

Mike was shocked by the megawatt smile he received, but he grinned back. Rachel was a lot cooler than he'd ever imagined, and Puck was his boy, so it was nice to help them out.

"Oh thank you so much, Michael! I really appreciate it!" Any further conversation was cut off as the teacher started speaking about Macbeth.

/*/

"You're sure we won't get in trouble for this song choice?" Rachel asked once more, the Cheerios getting warmed up in the smaller gym as they waited for the larger one to fill up with students.

"I'm sure B. And if we do…we'll say Sue chose it before getting suspended." Santana replied with a shrug as she stretched out on a mat. Sighing, hoping it didn't come back to bite them, Rachel did her voice warm ups while she too stretched.

"Alright ladies, time to kick some ass." Santana said a few minutes later when she got the signal from some random teacher. Taking a deep breath, Rachel gave a nod before they were all moving out into the gym to find their spots before the song started.

"You got this, Ray." Brittany whispered, which Rachel returned with a hand squeeze before her cue started. As she sang, she couldn't help but find Puck's blazing eyes on the sidelines where he stood with the rest of the basketball team.

"Suck my cockiness
Lick my persuasion
Eat my words
And swallow your pride down, down

Place my wants and needs
Over your resistance
And then you come around
You come around
You come around

I want you to be my sex slave
Anything that I desire
Be one with my femin-ay
Set my whole body on fire

They mad at Rihanna game
Taking over your empire
She may be the queen of hearts
But I'm a better queen to your body parts

No one can do ya
The way that I do
Boy I wa-a-ant
(Youuuuuu)
I love it, I love it
I love it when you eat it
I love it, I love it
I love it when you eat it
I love it, I love it
I love it when you eat it
I love it when you eat it
I love it when you eat it
I love it, I love it
I love it when you eat it
I love it, I love it
I love it when you eat it
I love it, I love it
I love it when you eat it
I love it when you eat it
I love it when you eat it

Suck my cockiness
Lick my persuasion
Eat my words
And swallow your pride down, down

Place my wants and needs
Over your resistance
And then you come around
You come around
You come around

I can be your dominatrix
Just submit to my every order
Enter my diamond matrix
If you want my golden flower

Make me your priority
There's nothing above my pleasure
She may be the queen of hearts
But I'm a better queen to your body parts

No one can do ya
The way that I do
Boy I wa-a-ant
(Youuuuuuuu)
I love it, I love it
I love it when you eat it
I love it, I love it
I love it when you eat it
I love it, I love it
I love it when you eat it
I love it when you eat it
I love it when you eat it
I love it, I love it
I love it when you eat it
I love it, I love it
I love it when you eat it
I love it, I love it
I love it when you eat it
I love it when you eat it
I love it when you eat it

Homie don't beat it like a bullet
Beat my drum drum
Like a drum line boogie
(I love it when you)
Dive head first if you wanna
Sing to my body
Hold me tight mister lover
(I love it when you)
Do it like I do it
Like I said
Keep it up, boy
We can do this all day
Be my Harlem
And me St. Tropez
Never found nobody
That will do it this way

No one can do ya
The way that I do
Boy I wa-a-ant
(Youuuuuu)
I love it, I love it
I love it when you eat it
I love it, I love it
I love it when you eat it
I love it, I love it
I love it when you eat it
I love it when you eat it
I love it when you eat it
I love it, I love it
I love it when you eat it
I love it, I love it
I love it when you eat it
I love it, I love it
I love it when you eat it
I love it when you eat it
I love it when you eat it"

The song was way too suggestive for Rachel's likes, but they got a standing ovation from their hormonal classmates, so she just accepted the applause with a smile. And by the look Puck sent her she knew they'd be lucky to make it to the parking lot before he was on her. Not that she minded that much anymore; not after their loud rendezvous in the closet that was now labeled as 'The Closet'.

/*/

No matter how many shots Puck blocked or even managed to make, Finn led the team into a very unsurprising loss. His height apparently gave him zero advantage, as the other team's players were able to block his shots and knock the ball out of his grasp.

By the end of the game, Puck seriously thought about punching the douche's lights out for sucking so bad, especially when he saw the appreciative looks he'd send the girls as they cheered, more specifically Rachel.

Stepping out of the locker room, Puck glared when he saw Finn talking with Rachel and Santana, his face contorted in the boyish look he thought was sexy. Stupid idiot. Not wanting to let this go on too long, Puck sauntered up to the girls and wrapped an arm around Rachel's shoulders.

"Hey babe." Rachel turned to look up at him with a beaming smile before she leaned up on her tiptoes to give him a light kiss.

"Hello, Noah! I'm so sorry you guys lost! I'm sure you'll beat the next team." Rachel smiled, cuddling into his side. She knew exactly why he'd pulled her to him, but she wasn't too taken aback by it.

Sure, it was a little cave man like, but she also wanted Finn to realize that she wasn't the cheating kind and wouldn't go for him as long as she was with Puck. Which she hoped was quite a while.

"Please, the only way they'd ever win a game is if they got all new players." Santana said with a snort, ignoring the glares she received from the others. What, she was just being honest. Their basketball team sucked balls.

"That's not very nice, Santana. Don't listen to her boys; I'm sure you will all get better with more practice." Rachel said with a small smile, even though she didn't believe herself either.

"Thanks Rachel, you always know just what to say." Finn said, giving her that goofy little smile that she found irritating now.

"You're welcome, Finn. I must apologize, but we should be going if we're going to make it to dinner on time." Rachel murmured, glancing up at Puck.

"Right. See you guys later." Puck said as he pulled her down the hallway, not even bothering to look back. Santana watched the two walk away, seeing how happy her friend was. Turning to Finn, she placed her hand on her hip and adopted her best bitch face.

"You need to stop trying to mess their relationship up, Finn. Shit's not cool, and that's coming from me."

"I don't know what you're talking about." Finn muttered, going to turn away when he was stopped by her hand spinning him back around.

"Listen up, Frankenteen; what Q and Puck did was fucked up. No one is saying it wasn't. But you trying to steal Rach from him just to get even is a shit move on your part. Sides, you don't even like Rach that much. She's loud, obnoxious, and talks about Broadway most of the time. You're not over Q, so instead of trying to make things hard for Rach, why don't you focus on gettin' over your ex?" Giving him a serious look, Santana turned and pranced away, planning to meet up with Matt at the party.

Finn watched her go, his slow brain trying to understand what she'd been saying.

/*/

(Monday of "Hell-O" week)

"Have you heard?"

"Yeah, Carla said she saw Sue in the office this morning."

"I can't believe she's back already!"

"I just hope she's not too mad about Friday's pep rally."

"Me too girl, me too."

/*/

"What's going on?" Rachel asked when she saw Brittany and Santana leaning against Sue's office, where she could vaguely hear the woman ripping into someone.

"She's pissed we didn't stop the Glee club from winning Sectionals. She's talking to Q right now." Santana replied, face a little pale from the screaming her and Britt had already been through. Frowning, Rachel glancing between the two.

"So…she's going to make you guys do something?" Earning shrugs, Rachel sighed sadly before nodding.

"Of course, you must do what you must. But if she demands I help, then I must remain true to myself and the Glee club. I will not be part of any sabotage plan, and if she brings it up to you, please inform Coach that I will be resigning from the team if she demands such." With that Rachel turned on her heel and marched away, hurt that her friends would still be willing to disrupt the club to remain on the Cheerios. So much for being true friends.

Spying Kurt and Mercedes speaking at a locker, Rachel made her way over. If Santana and Brittany were going to spit in her face (figuratively), then she was just going to have to make sure she was around other friends. She knew that Brittany didn't really know what all was going on, or how her actions affected others, but Santana was perfectly aware and that just made the hurt sting more.

"Hey guys, how's it going?" Rachel asked, smiling as the other two divas smiled back.

"Not too bad, diva. I'm still amazed we won Sectionals! The whole school's been looking at us differently." Mercedes said, clutching her binder to her chest in happiness.

The three started walking down the hallway, chatting excitedly about the upcoming Glee practice that Mr. Schuester had scheduled for that lunch period. They were rudely interrupted by the sudden, shocking faceful of sticky ice.

Dropping her bag where she stood, Rachel furiously wiped at her eyes until she could see the backs of Karofsky, Azimio, and another jock walking away, laughing. Giving an ear splitting shriek of outrage, the others in the hallway watched in shock as Rachel launched herself at Karofsky, catching the large boy by surprise.

Using her momentum, Rachel brought the boy to the ground where she rolled out of the way before flashing back up to her feet and kicking him as hard as she could in the balls.

"How dare you, you Neanderthal!" Rachel screeched, her small fist flashing out to punch him in the face.

The footballer's face snapped back and hit the floor with a small crack that would have had her worried if she wasn't so enraged. She was roughly pulled away from the boy by Azimio, who pushed her against the lockers.

"You better watch yourself, loser. Or you're gonna get a lot more than a slushie to the face." Before she could retort, the black boy was yanked away from her and found himself held against the other wall by his throat, a very angry Noah Puckerman staring at him.

"What the fuck do you think you're doing, Azimio?" The words were said in such a deadly calm voice that the larger guy felt his gut clench in fear. He might have a good 30 pounds on Puckerman, but that was due to fat and the mohawked dude was all muscle. Which was proved by the tight grip he had on his throat, making it difficult to breathe.

"I was perfectly capable of standing up for myself, Noah." Rachel said, hands on her hips. The picture might have been more threatening in she didn't have blue corn syrup all over her face and uniform.

"You already took care of Karofsky, babe. I got this one." Puck said, sending her a look before turning his glare back to his former teammate.

"Well?" He only got a gurgled response, so Puck tossed the guy away from him, where he landed next to David with a thud.

"Keep your hands off my girl unless you want me to break your face." Puck snarled down at the two before turning to look at the other jock, who's eyes were wide with fear. He'd never been on the receiving end of this side of Puck and he didn't want a repeat, like ever.

"Sorry man, Rachel. D-didn't mean to get you." He mumbled, eyes flicking to the brunette. Rachel glared at him before tugging on Puck's bulging arm.

"You have no right to go about tossing slushies in people's face merely because you believe yourself above them. I thought I had made that point crystal clear, but I guess you three chose to ignore it. You might want to wake up and realize something: the football team, while admittedly run this school, only won two games this last season. Two.

"The Glee club, which you jocks believe is filled with losers, even though the majority of its members are in athletic programs, won Sectionals. Putting the two side by side, it's hard to understand why you boys think yourselves so much better when we've proven we have more talent than you do. If you ever come at me with a slushie again, I won't prevent Puck from taking retaliation, along with suing you for intention bodily harm."

With that, the diva pulled Puck away and grabbed her dropped bag, ignoring the whispers and phones that had been recording the whole thing. Hopefully they hadn't caught her hitting Karofsky, as she really needed to stop resorting to physical violence. She'd been handing around Puck too much.

"C'mon guys, let's go get cleaned up." Rachel said to Kurt and Mercedes, who were staring at the two with shock, and a little hero worship. They'd just witnessed an epic showdown between the new 'it' couple and two of the biggest bullies…it was just amazing.

The four made their way towards a bathroom, where the slushie victims worked hard to get the blue dye out of their clothes. Which was a hopeless task, as it had stained all the way through to skin.

"Coach is going to be so mad!" Rachel moaned in frustration, knowing she was going to have to either go home or get a new uniform. But anything was better than walking around in the ruined one, so she just clamped down on her courage.

"Here, wear this till you get a new one." Puck said, pulling his letterman jacket off and handing it to her.

"Thanks, Noah. I should go get a new uniform before classes begin. See you guys later." Rachel gave him a light kiss before leaving the bathroom. The other three shared a moment of awkwardness before Puck cleared his throat and took his over shirt off.

"It's all I have to offer." Puck said as way of explanation, holding the garment out to Mercedes. Taking the shirt from him, Mercedes eyes were large as she looked between it and Puck.

"T-thank you, Puck." Giving a little uneasy shrug, Puck looked at Kurt.

"Uh…you have a change of clothes?" Kurt had to bite back a chuckle at how uncomfortable the jock was before nodding.

"Of course, a fashionista always comes prepared." Giving him a weird look, Puck just bid goodbye before fleeing, still not used to being so friendly with the two. For fuck's sake, he used to toss Kurt in dumpsters. Shaking his head, Puck made his way to English.

/*/

Rachel rushed into the Spanish room, panting for breathe as she'd just run all the way form the supply office to Mr. Schue's class. Puck's letterman's jacket was thrown over her arm with her own Cheerio's coat, as the diva was too hot to wear either.

"Rachel, why are you late?" Mr. Schue asked, turning from the board to look at her. He still couldn't get over their talk, so his words might have come out sharper than he'd meant for them to.

"S-S-Sorry Mr. Schue…I had to…get a…new uniform." Rachel gasped, clutching onto her side as she tried to calm her breathing.

Mr. Schue just motioned for her to sit down, now wanting her to pass out from oxygen loss. Rachel made her way to her usual seat next to Santana and Brittany, ignoring the two as she tried to calm down.

"You alright, B?" Santana asked, completely ignoring the glare Will sent her way before starting the lecture.

"I'm fine." Rachel said, turning away from the Latina to pull her notebook from her book bag.

"Are you mad at us?" Brittany asked, her big blue eyes filling with sadness at the thought. Rachel tried to remain immune to the gaze, but Brittany just looked so dang sad.

"Are you going to betray the Glee club to remain on the Cheerios?" Rachel asked, looking over at Santana with an arched brow.

"What do you mean?" Brittany asked in confusion. But Rachel just kept her gaze on Santana, knowing the Latina would be the one to question.

"Sue didn't ask us to do anything. So I dunno." She said with a shrug, feeling uncomfortable with how guilty the brunette was able to make her feel. The Cheerios were her life, just like Glee was Rachel's, so she didn't get why the diva didn't understand.

"Oh, well okay then. Just…warn me if she does because I don't want to be blindsided by it." Rachel said quietly, knowing it was too much to ask for them to pledge their allegiance to only the Glee club. They were Cheerios first and foremost, so Rachel just had to accept that that is what came in first for them, no matter whether they were friends or not.

"Sure, B." Santana nodded, knowing it was the least she could do. Because if it came down between the two, she'd always go with the Cheerios.

"So…you're not mad anymore?" Brittany asked hopefully, making Rachel give a small laugh and hug her.

"No, Britt, I'm not mad anymore." The three friends smiled at each other before turning their attention to the front, least Mr. Schuester get too angry.

/*/

"Hey babe." Puck said as he sat down next to Rachel in the choir room, slinging an arm over the back of her chair.

"Hello, Noah. Thank you for letting me borrow your jacket. Here, I made you turkey and cheese sandwiches." Rachel said, pulling the baggy from her lunch box.

"Really? Thanks, baby." Puck said, taking the sandwiches with a kiss.

"Well, since Mr. Schue told us about the meeting on Sunday via email, I figured it would be best to pack you something in case we didn't have time for you to grab something from the cafeteria." Rachel said with a smile, pulling out a container of grapes to nibble on.

"'Preciate it, baby." Puck murmured, knowing she'd have had to go out and buy the cheese and meat for him.

"You're quite welcome, Noah. I'm always glad to insure you're eating properly. And I've come to realize that it's a good idea to have the supplies on hand for when I have three hungry boys in my house on Sundays." Rachel beamed at him, which made his heart do that stupid clench thing again. Swallowing his bite, Puck leaned over to give her a long kiss.

"You're the best, Rachel." Lighting up like a freaking Christmas tree, Rachel smiled at him in utter delight.

"Thank you, Noah. I…I love you." Rachel whisper the last part, even though no one was in the room yet. She knew Puck didn't want that getting out, even though the rest of Glee pretty much already knew.

"Love you too, babe." Puck grumbled before stuffing half the sandwich in his mouth, making Rachel have to cover her mouth to keep from laughing. Boys were so amusing when they got all uneasy about feelings and admitting they actually had them.

Shaking her head, Rachel pecked his cheek and turned back to her grapes, sighing in contentment when he pulled her to lean against his chest as they waited for the rest to show up. Which proved to not be long, as the clubbers began trickling in, many with their own lunches in hand.

/*/

They watched as Mr. Schuester, who was ten minutes late!, drew a large stick figure up on the white board. He then added a speech bubble with the word "Hello" scribbled inside of it before turning to look at his students.

"Hello." Receiving no response, Will arched a brow.

"Hello?"

"Hello." The clubbers responded weakly, not at all interested in whatever he was going to say. Sighing, will ploughed on ahead.

"What do you guys say when you answer the phone?"

"What up?" Mercedes said, getting nods from the others.

"Who this be?" Artie said, making the others chuckle a little.

"No, she's dead. This is her son." Kurt's reply was answered with an awkward silence before Mr. Schuester pushed ahead.

"O-kay…Alexander Graham Bell, inventor of the telephone, liked to say "Ahoy, ahoy" when he answered the phone. It was Edison who decided that "hello" was a more appropriate greeting." Mr. Schue said, glancing around at his students. Seeing their pitiful looks, he sighed.

"Look, I am really proud of what you guys did at Sectionals, but as most of you have realized by now, it hasn't made a bit of difference in your day-to-day at school."

"I have a stained sports bra as proof. Those stupid Neanderthals are so-" Rachel's angry words were cut off by Puck's hand over her mouth.

Turning wide, angry eyes at him, Puck arched a brow at her before nodding to the irritated look on Mr. Schuester's face. Huffing, she crossed her arms and he lowered his hand, prying a clenched fist away from her body until he had it relaxed in his.

"The fact is, we're gonna have to be better, even more spectacular at Regionals. It's time for some reinvention, some new New Directions. We need a new…hello. Here's your assignment for the week. Come up with a fresh number, but it has to have "hello" in the song title, all right? And we'll do "Hello, Goodbye" by The Beatles on Friday." Getting halfhearted shrugs, Will sighed as the bell rang.

/*/

"Does anyone have a number prepared?" Will asked as he walked into the room, even though he already knew one of them did. He'd pulled Finn from math to speak with him and let him practice, so he could show the club why he was the male lead. Not that Finn knew this.

"I do, Mr. Schue." Finn said, holding up a hand.

Receiving a smile from the director, Finn stood and made his way to the front of the room. He didn't see the eye rolls his classmates shared, too focused on getting into the groove. When the music started, Finn's eyes moved over to Quinn before he could stop himself.

After finishing up "Hello, I love you" by The Doors, the practice broke up as no one else had a number ready. And since Mr. Schuester still hadn't said okay for Puck to do the group number, Rachel pulled him out of the room before they could all be roped into practicing with Finn as lead.

/*/

"Okay girl, I want the real story about the night at summer camp." Santana said from her spot on Rachel's bed. They'd decided to go to the diva's house instead of Britt's for waxing night, since Brittany's little sister had friends over and they really didn't feel like babysitting a bunch of six year olds.

Rachel was sitting on the trunk at the foot of her bed, in the middle of paining her toes has her legs had already gone through their torture. Brittany was in the bathroom, giving a small cry as she removed the last piece of paper and wax from her body.

"I told you that I wouldn't go into details, San." Rachel said, capping the polish as glancing up at her friend.

"C'mon, we all know it was Puck now. So spill. I wanna know how you ended up losing it to him." Santana said, unwilling to let this go. It'd been bothering her since she'd found out over break and she was determined to get some answers.

"I wanna know too, Ray." Brittany said, coming back into the room and going over to the vanity that held the soothing lotion. After rubbing it into her legs, she joined Santana on the bed and they both peered at Rachel.

"It's really not that interesting, guys." Rachel sighed.

When they just continued to stare at her, the small girl huffed before getting up, moving carefully over to a wall that had pictures tacked up to a cork board. Most of the pictures were new, ones taken since she'd rejoined Glee, but there were a few ones of her life before Glee, before high school. Taking one down, Rachel turned back and made her way to the bed, where she sat down next to Brittany's legs.

"Noah and I have known each other practically since birth. As you might have guessed, the Jewish community is extremely small, and most of the members are friends. This is true for my dads and Leah Puckerman, Noah's mother. They'd known each other since my dads had moved here, so when they both had children, we were automatically made to be friends."

"Aw, you were so cute!" Brittany said, grinning down at the picture of two blushing children, Rachel in pigtails and Puck with a head full of hair.

"Never thought I'd appreciate the hawk more than I already do." Santana said in amusement, making Rachel roll her eyes and snatch the picture back.

"Anyway, so we've known each other all our lives. That does not mean to say, however, that we were friends for that long, as you know. That summer…it changed our relationship in ways that I'd never even contemplated before. Once school started in August, Noah was gone and in his place was Puck, this abrasive boy who slushied me without a second thought." Glancing down at the picture again, Rachel couldn't believe how much they'd both changed over the years.

"Why'd he slushie you?" Brittany asked, seeing the pained look on her friend's face.

"Uh…I don't know how much I can say without betraying his confidence, but it was a difficult summer once we returned from camp. Some things happened that seemed to make Noah snap and allowed Puck to take his place. I'm not entirely sure what brought the slushieing on, but I understand now that he was hurt and lashing out." Rachel shrugged before standing to put the picture back.

"So…camp?" Santana said, wanting to get back on topic. Rachel leaned against her desk, crossing her arms over her chest as she regarded her two friends.

"You're going to be disappointed, as it's really not that interesting." Rachel shook her head before launching into the story, knowing they expected it to be more than it was.

/*/

"C'mon Rachie! Please! The guys won't leave me alone until we do it." Noah groaned from his spot next to her. They'd taken his blanket from his cabin and had snuck off to be alone, wanting to be away from the ever present Jacob Ben Israel and older children that kept teasing them.

"Noah! I am not going to do it merely because a bunch of older boys are teasing you. That does not make any sense! When that happens, I want it to be with someone I love." Rachel's young voice replied, appalled he'd actually think she'd have sex with him. She was only twelve, for peat's sake.

"Please Rachie! It's no big deal, right? You're always saying you're gonna have to experience stuff for Broadway, right? And they do that, don't they? Plus…isn't it better to do it with your best friend?" Noah's hazel eyes were wide as he continued to speak, not really sure why he was pushing this so far. He didn't really think he was ready for this, let alone if Rachel was. But the guys just wouldn't quit and he wanted to show them that he wasn't a baby.

"Noah…"

"Rachie, please! You're my best friend and I don't wanna do it with anyone else." Seeing how serious he was, Rachel bit her lip in uncertainty. Was she really going to do this? At twelve? What would her dads think of this?

"What…what about protection?" She whispered, her eyes closing tightly when she realized she'd basically just said yes. But Noah was her truest friend, had been her first kiss, so maybe this was right. Maybe the two were just meant to be together and it didn't matter at what age they started. Maybe.

"Oh, they gave me something." Noah pulled out the foil package, the two staring down at it before looking up at each other.

"Oh…okay. H-here?" Rachel's voice wavered, glancing around the secluded little nook they'd found.

"I-if you want." All the certainty fled, leaving the thirteen year old sounding his age. Their large eyes locked before they slowly leaned in, the awkwardness of their ages and the moment almost too much. But not enough, as Rachel allowed herself to be lowered to the blanket by fumbling hands.

"Y-you're sure?" Noah paused to ask, knowing if she said no than he'd pull away. This was Rachel, and he wasn't going to hurt her just to get the guys off his back. Biting her lip, Rachel gave a small nod and pulled his face in for a kiss.

/*/

"That's it?" Santana asked, annoyed there hadn't been more details.

"I don't know what you expected, San, but that's it. It was uncomfortable and painful, and when it was over we were so awkward around each other. We were way too young to have done that and we promised not to talk about it again. He let the guys think he hadn't gone through with it and this is the first I've spoken of it in detail since." Rachel said with a shrug.

"Puckleberry was meant to be!" Brittany said, punching her fist up into the air with a triumphant smile.

"You're a lot more badass than I ever thought, Berry." The Latina said with a smile, making the diva blush.

"So…have you found songs to do?" Rachel asked, moving to her laptop to pull up the internet. The other two shared an amused look, knowing the diva was trying to change to topic. Which was fine, as they'd gotten what they wanted.

"No, haven't really had a chance." Santana said in disinterest. Rachel sent her an annoyed look before unplugging her computer and depositing herself on the bed so they could all see the screen.

"There aren't actually that many songs to choose from, but here's the list. I've picked this one and Finn had performed the Doors number. So these are what is left." Rachel said, pointing to the songs on the computer screen.

"There's not really anything my style, B." Santana said, reading through the titles and artists. Giving a nod, Rachel skimmed down the screen.

"I was thinking that as well, which is why I was going to suggest maybe doing a group number? Not many of these can be done justice by a single voice, so maybe adding in some of the boys would allow for you to do a song you couldn't have before. Like this one." Rachel said, highlighting the song she was speaking of.

"Can we hear what is sounds like?" Brittany asked from over her shoulder.

"Sure." Rachel pulled up youtube and typed in the song before playing the video. The three shared a grin when it was done.

"That'd be perfect, with Artie for sure." Santana said.

"And maybe include Michael and Mathew? Their voices have improved a great deal since I've started working with them, so it should be a great performance." Rachel said.

"I'm going to go call them and see if they can meet us here. That's okay, right Ray?" Brittany asked as she stood from the bed.

"Uh…yeah sure. We'll order in and I'll see if Noah wants to come by after work." Rachel replied, amazed her house was soon to be filled up with people. Having friends was something she thought she'd never get used to.

/*/

(Tuesday of "Hell-O" week)

The minute she slides into the truck, Rachel can tell something is wrong. Puck's face is twisted in a deep scowl and his hands are gripping the wheel so tightly his knuckles have turned white. Add that to the fact that he hadn't leaned over for a morning smooch, and something was clearly bothering him.

"Noah, what's the matter?" She asked, sliding over on the seat until she was right next to him.

"Nothing, just somethin' stupid." Puck shrugged, but the irritated look never wavered as he started the truck and pulled out.

Frowning up at him, Rachel moved back to her seat to buckle up. The drive was absolute hell for her, as he refused to say a word and her stomach was beginning to churn in anxiety. When they pulled into a parking spot, Rachel slowly unbuckled her belt before turning to look at him.

"H-have I done something to upset you, Noah?" Her words were whispered, afraid if she spoke too loudly he'd end up lashing out at her. Puck was difficult to gage at times and she wasn't sure about how her question would be perceived.

"What?" Puck asked, gaze finally turning to look at her in confusion. Gripping her hands together, Rachel met his gaze.

"I do not know what I could have possibly done to upset you, as you were fine last night when you came over after work. But I would rather you be honest with me and tell me, so that I can fix it rather than stewing silently." Rachel said, not willing to back down. If she'd pissed him off, then he should have the decency to tell her how or why, as she wouldn't hesitate to do the same.

"Babe, what are you talkin' bout? I'm not mad at you." Puck shook his head, thinking his girl had finally gone crazy. Brow furrowing, Rachel looked over at him with a confused frown.

"Then why are you in such a foul temper and refuse to speak with me?" Sighing, Puck leaned his head back against his headrest.

"Sorry, Rach, I was just annoyed. Didn't mean to take it out on you." Pulling her closer to him, Puck bent his head to capture her lips in a deep kiss to show how sorry he was. When they pulled away, Rachel gave a little smile before getting serious.

"If you're not angry with me, then what is the matter? You can tell me." Giving her a worried look, Puck debated about being honest or not. But he knew she'd find out eventually, as she always does, so he sighed and pulled his phone out.

"Don't freak out on me, okay? I only responded once and that was to tell her to leave me the fuck alone." At her confused look, Puck flicked the phone open and showed her the text messages he'd been getting since the night before.

"Oh my God! That bitch!" Rachel screeched, glaring down at the little screen angrily. As she started to move towards the door, Puck quickly reached out to stop her.

"Babe, just let this go. She'll stop in a few days when she sees I'm not interested. And after your little…show with Karofsky, I wouldn't think making another scene is something you want to do. Just let it be and if she doesn't stop, then you can beat her ass, okay?"

He couldn't believe he was actually talking her away from the ledge, but he also didn't want her suspended. Girl had turned into one hell of a spitfire this year and he had no delusions (really? Where does he get this shit?) that she'd beat the crap out of her, her "violence solves nothing" mantra forgotten.

Sighing in irritation, Rachel handed him the phone back and pushed her anger down. If Puck of all people was telling her to calm down, then she really needed to pay attention. It was a little startling to realize how quick she'd been to go from calm to wanting to hit someone, and she blamed it all on Puck's influence. Yep, it was all Puck's fault.

"Fine, you're right. But if she doesn't stop soon, we're going to have an issue." Rachel said more calmly, earning an amused look from her boyfriend before he pulled her to him.

"You're so sexy when you're mad, babe." Puck said huskily, groaning when she slid into his lap and nuzzled his face. He was really starting to enjoy getting to school so damn early.

/*/

By the time Glee came around, Rachel was about to ignore her common sense and punch Quinn Fabray in the face. When the blonde sauntered into the room with a heated look at Puck, Rachel was out of her seat in an instant. The only thing that stopped her projection was the quick thinking of said boyfriend, who's strong arms shot out to catch the small girl.

"Babe, calm down." Puck said, pulling the fuming girl back to her seat. The other glee clubbers' eyes were wide in surprise, glancing between the smirking Quinn and the fuming diva, wondering what in the world was going on.

"All right guys, who has something prepared?" Mr. Schuester asked as he came into the room, completely ignorant of the thick air that surrounded his students. Once she was firmly back in her seat, Puck murmured a quick reassurance before holding his hand up.

"I got something ready." A look of surprise flashed over Will's, and Rachel's, face before he gave a slight nod. Giving his girl a small kiss to hopefully cool her jets, Puck walked over to the band and conversed with them for a few minutes to make sure they knew the song he wanted to do.

"Girl, what in the world was that?" Mercedes asked, leaning over Matt to better see the small girl who was sitting in the front row. Giving her uniform an irritated tug, Rachel turned large brown eyes up to the black diva.

"Quinn has simply been proving herself to be the bitch she's always been." The others were shocked at her cursing, or using it to describe someone, and their eyes shot over to the blonde, who was sitting next to Artie and staring at Puck.

"Girl, what's she doing?" Santana asked, ready to get involved. Quinn used to be her homegirl, but she was tired of having to bow down to her. Now that she was the one in power, Santana didn't want to go back to the way it used to be.

"She has been sending very disrespectful and suggestive texts to Noah, although I haven't the faintest clue as to why. Noah has made it perfectly clear that she's barking up the wrong tree." Rachel said, glaring at the pretty girl.

"Ah Rach, you don't have anything to worry about. Puck's so deep in divaland that there's no way out." Matt said, squeezing her shoulder reassuringly and earning giggles from the other girls and Kurt.

"Don't let him hear you say that, Mathew!" Rachel said as she fought back her own laughter, the thought of his facial reaction to such a statement making it that much more funny. Matt just smiled, glad he'd gotten her to cheer up.

"Okay guys, come on." Mr. Schuester said when he saw Puck was ready, moving to take a seat. The others quieted down as the music started, Puck's and Rachel's eyes locking.

"Hello again, hello
Just called to say hello
I couldn't sleep at all tonight
And I know it's late
But I couldn't wait

Hello, my friend, hello
Just called to let you know
I think about you ev'ry night
When I'm here alone
And you're there at home, hello

Maybe it's been crazy
And maybe I'm to blame
But I put my heart above my head
We've been through it all
And you loved me just the same
And when you're not there
I just need to hear

Hello, my friend, hello
It's good to need you so
It's good to love you like I do
And to feel this way
When I hear you say, hello

Hello, my friend, hello
Just called to let you know
I think about you ev'ry night
And I know it's late
But I couldn't wait
Hello"

Clapping happily, Rachel beamed at him as he set the guitar aside. Standing, Rachel threw herself at him and gave him a quick kiss before Mr. Schuester cleared his throat to get them to separate.

"Why'd you choose that song?" While Puck's rendition had been marvelous, it was a very short song and he hadn't really expected it.

"Well, it's one of the only songs that can be made into a male solo without too much trouble. Plus, it was the only one done by a Jewish artist." Puck shrugged before sitting back down, an excited girlfriend at his side. He'd never admit he'd sung it because the lyrics matched how he felt about Rachel, even though she clearly understood.

"Oh, well good job. Anyone else have something?" Will asked, not at all surprised when Rachel's hand shot up.

"I do." Giving a tired nod, Will sat back and waited.

Rachel smiled at Puck one more time before moving towards the band to converse with them. She'd practiced during lunch, so they were already up to speed about what they were playing. Turning to Brad, she gave him a small smile as he nodded before getting up and allowing her to take the bench, much to everyone's surprise.

"Playground school bell rings again.
Rain clouds come to play again.
Has no one told you she's not breathing?
Hello, I'm your mind giving you
Someone to talk to.
Hello.

If I smile, and don't believe
Soon I know I'll wake from this dream
Don't try to fix me, I'm not broken.
Hello, I'm the lie living for you so you can hide.
Don't cry.

Suddenly I know I'm not sleeping
Hello, I'm still here.
All that's left of yesterday."

Everyone was silent for a moment, completely shocked at the performance. There was no flash or amazing high note, which was Rachel's staple, so it was a little unnerving. Once they got over it, all the students (except Quinn) started clapping, amazed at the girl's talent."

"That was awesome babe." Puck said, pulling her into a hug and kiss.

"Thank you, Noah." Rachel beamed before taking her seat, sending a pointed look at Quinn.

"Wow, Rachel, that was…really good. Anyone else ready to go today?"

Receiving no positive responses, Mr. Schuester let them go early, needing to think. Maybe Rachel was right and he should let Puck take lead this week. It wasn't really fair of him to deny it, when he'd been so adamant about everyone being treated equally. Sighing, Will headed to Emma's office.

/*/

(Wednesday of "Hell-O" week)

"Okay Quinn, you need to get it through your blonde head that Noah does not want you and I will not let you have him." Rachel said, marching up to the girl before first period. She'd stayed calm over the last few days, but Quinn's continued texts to Puck had finally gone too far and Rachel wanted it to end.

"Afraid he'll realize what a loser he's with, manhands?" Quinn asked snidely, shooting a smirk over her shoulder as she rummaged around in her locker. Rachel had to clench her small fists tightly, as they desperately wanted to meet flesh.

"You can hurl your insults around all you like, Fabray. But it's not going to change the truth, which is that Noah wants to be with me and not you." Giving a small laugh, Quinn shut her locker and turned to face her, noting the crowd they'd started to accumulate.

"Please, he'll grow tired of you before too long. Do you really think you have the ability to keep his attention for much longer?" Quinn gave her a once over, clearly indicating that she didn't think so.

"I've kept his attention for the past three months just fine, thank you very much." Rachel bit out, anger thumping through her body until she was almost shaking with it.

"He'll realize he wants a real woman. And when he does, I'll be there."

"Ha! You're a 'woman'? Really? You look like a spoiled little child to me." Rachel said, shaking her head at Quinn's words, making the blonde bristle.

"I had him once, RuPaul, and I can have again. All I have to do is snap my fingers and he's all mine." Quinn said with a sneer.

"Why would he go to you? All you are to him is a mistake that he never should have made, Fabray. He regrets being with you more than anything else in his life. So I highly doubt he'd just fall over himself to be with you again." Rachel replied with a smirk, her own bitch face coming out.

"Okay ladies, let's move this along." Mrs. Tolts said, coming out of her classroom to see what was the commotion. The two girls glared daggers at each other before heading in different directions, ignoring the people around them.

Rachel was startled when she was suddenly pulled into a supply closet, Puck's large hand flying to her mouth to quiet her scream.

"That was so hot, babe."

/*/

This is where things have been altered…

"Girl! We heard about your little speech in the hallway this morning! I can't believe you actually said all that to Quinn!" Mercedes said in excitement as she sat down at the lunch table. The other Gleeks were either already there or in the lunch line, so the table would be full soon.

"Yeah, diva, that was completely unexpected. Although, given your recent actions, I guess we should have seen it coming." Kurt said, flipping his bangs out of his eyes.

"I was simply honest with her. It is not my fault that she deluded herself into thinking Noah would want to get back with her simply because she's Quinn Fabray." Rachel replied with a shrug, glancing around the cafeteria for her missing boyfriend.

"Yeah, but no one has ever stood up to her like that! It was amazing." Mercedes replied as she opened her milk, earning a small smile from the brunette.

"Well thank you for your support. I'm glad that I know I have friends to back me up if need be." Rachel said softly, making the two smile before she was distracted by Puck landing in the empty seat to her right.

"Hey babe." Puck said, giving her a long kiss before turning to his plate of food. He was starving, as their rump in the closet that morning had left him with no reserves of energy. Little diva was positively inhuman in the sack, and he needed to replenish if he wanted to get her alone again. Which he always wanted.

"Good afternoon, Noah." Rachel murmured with a smile, snuggling into his side as she opened her salad container.

"Rachel, I was wondering if maybe…if you'd help me pick out a song to perform?" Tina's quiet voice sounded from across the table, almost too low to hear. Looking up, Rachel met the girl's uncertain eyes with a smile/

"Of course I will, Tina. I'm honored you'd ask for my help. If you have some time after school today, we can go by the public library, as they have a good selection of sheet music to choose from and I'm sure we'll be able to find something."

Tina gave a hesitant smile, still unused to actually being friends with Rachel. After the party she'd been invited to for Rachel's birthday, the Asian girl had tried to make more of an effort to be her friend.

"Thank you, that'd be great." Rachel beamed at her before turning back to her meal and boyfriend, who was pouting about being ignored. He was such a man-child sometimes.

/*/

"Alright, who's ready today?" Mr. Schuester asked when he came into the room. Quinn raised her hand with a superior look on her face, as if she was above everyone and everything.

"Go ahead when you're ready." Will said, his voice softening a little as he addressed the blonde. Poor girl had been through a lot and he was just glad that she was participating.

Quinn sauntered up to the band to discuss her choice before turning back to the audience. She sent a look at Puck, which was ignored, and then glanced over at Finn, not being able to stop herself as the music started.

"Hello, hello?
Is anyone home?
Hello, hello?
Just pick up the phone

I opened up my life to you,
I told you everything I knew,
You listened so closely to,
You listened so close when love was just a way out
But you're going deaf now,
Yeah you turned your head around,

Hello, hello?
Is anyone home?
Hello, hello?
Just pick up the phone,
You'll be sorry to hear,
I'm doing fine now,
Sorry to hear,
You're without me now

You blew up the world I built for us,
Destroyed our secret universe,
Threw out the trust I, put in you,
Making me feel like I'd been used,
And now I'm reminded,
That I was just blinded,

Hello, hello?
Is anyone home?
Hello, hello?
Just pick up the phone,
You'll be sorry to hear,
I'm doing fine now,
Sorry to hear,
You're without me now

I'm doing fine,
You'll be alright,
Maybe you'll think of me tonight,
You're doing fine,
And I'll be alright,
Just give me time, yeah

Hello, hello?
Is anyone home?
Hello, hello?
Just pick up the phone,
I don't wanna hear,
You're doing fine now,
Don't wanna hear,
I'm without you now

I'm without you now,
I'm without you."

"Wow, that was really good Quinn. Anyone else ready?" Will asked, glancing over at his students. There seemed to be a conference between a few of them before Matt, Mike, Santana and Brittany stood and moved to the front, where Artie met them.

"We're ready, Mr. Schue. We hope you enjoy." Artie said with a smile.

"(San, Britt)

Yeah, yeah...
Yeah, yeah...

[Mike]
Hello...
Good morning... (Let's go, let's ride)
Hello...
Good morning...
Hello!...
Good morning!...
Know you been wai-...
... -tin for it...
'Cause I seen...
... you watching
So let's go...
Let's get it poppin

[Matt]
'Cause I been leanin on the bar, lookin cleaner than a star
These broads won't give me my props
Twenty-five on the bag, I be stuntin on they ass
And ya mad cause the bitch won't stop

[All]
Got your boyfriend feeling like a groupie...
(You know, you know, we know, we on that)
Still life but it's lookin like a movie...
(You know, you know, we know, we on that)
And ev'rybody know who the truth beee...
(You know, you know, we know, we on that)
I blow 'cause I'm blowin on that OOH-WHEE~!
(You know, you know, we know, we on that)
Hello

[Artie]
Hello, good morning, how you doin? We're at the movie
Of "Welcome to the Future," I'm the Cap'n of the Cool Kids
The revolution's NEVER been televised
Great booty, better thighs, I ain't wanna tell her bye
First I tell her hi, then I give her one and let her fly
Never tell a lie, tonight you couldn't find a better guy
King shit, flyer than anyone you get seen with
Gangsta distinguished, cool as a penguin
Got a team of 'em on the field, finna bring wit
G5 waitin, fly away at my convenience
You seen T.I.P., checkin in a 5-star suite
With some 5-star freaks, gettin high all week (Let's GO! )
Catch me in the week, I was up all night when y'all sleep
In a fast car, superbad broads, back seat
That's me, see I'm nothin nice, fuck a couple nights
With the moon say goodbye and the sun greetin us like...

[Mike]
Hello...
Good morning... (Let's go, let's ride)
Hello... (Yeah, c'mon)
Good morning...
Hello!...
Good evening!...
You blow...
You feenin...
'Cause you know...
... that you really need it
And I'm the one that you wanna be with
But right now baby, you dreamin - Wake up and turn the lights off

[Matt]
'Cause I been leanin on the bar, lookin cleaner than a star
These broads won't give me my props
Twenty-five on the bag, I be stuntin on they ass
And ya mad cause the bitch won't stop

[All]
Got your boyfriend feeling like a groupie...
(You know, you know, we know, we on that)
Still life but it's lookin like a movie...
(You know, you know, we know, we on that)
And ev'rybody know who the truth beee...
(You know, you know, we know, we on that)
I blow 'cause I'm blowin on that OOH-WHEE~!
(You know, you know, we know, we on that)
Hello

[Mike]
Hello... (Let's go)
Good morning... (Let's work)
Hello... (Let's go)
Good morning... (Let's work)
Hello...

[Beat changes]

Aiyyo... aiyyo, turn me up a lil' bit more
I don't think they can hear me
Check this out... Bad Boy, bitch!
Let's work... c'mon
Let's work... non-stop, let's rock
Make you feel good too, let's work...
Don't stop I see you, let's work
It's that Dirty Money

[Artie, rap verse]
Uh, how fly is he?
Yo' baby momma (Cry for Me) like Jodeci (let's go)
So how you not notice me?
PUll up to the club in the coldest V
Ugh... literally cold
Little did he know how that nigga Diddy flow
... How that nigga Diddy go
So hard like a crowbar, still gettin dough
Whoa whoa, whoa... Hahaha (Turn the bass up! )
Hey, I like this (c'mon, can you feel it?)
Can you feel it?... Nothin can save ya
Uh, it's that Dirty Money (Turn the lights on! )

[All]
Got your boyfriend feeling like a groupie...
(You know, you know, we know, we on that)
Still life but it's lookin like a movie...
(You know, you know, we know, we on that)
And ev'rybody know who the truth beee...
(You know, you know, we know, we on that)
I blow 'cause I'm blowin on that OOH-WHEE~!
(You know, you know, we know, we on that)
Hello

[Mike]
Hello...
Good morning... (Let's go, let's ride)
Hello... (Yeah, c'mon)
Good morning...
Hello...
(H-e-l-l-o, h-e-l-l-o, h-e-l-l-o...)
Hello...
(H-e-l-l-o, h-e-l-l-o, h-e-l-l-o...)
Hello...
(H-e-l-l-o, h-e-l-l-o, h-e-l-l-o...)
Hello...
(H-e-l-l-o, h-e-l-l-o, h-e-l-l-o...)"

The five were panting by the end of their number, but were all grinning, knowing they'd just kicked that song's ass. When the others started applauding, they just grinned wider as they made their way back to their seats.

"Guys…that was…wow. I'm so impressed! Mike, Matt I didn't know you could sing like that." Mr. Schue said, completely surprised. He saw Rachel preened a little at his words and he remembered how she'd admitted to working with the boys

"Thanks! Ray helped us practice!" Brittany said, bouncing on her heels in excitement. They really had been amazing.

"You guys were so good!" Rachel said with a smile, moving to hug her friends.

"Thanks, Rach. We owe it all to you." Matt said, giving her pony tail a little tug. Rachel blushed at their praises, pleased she'd been able to help them.

"Okay everyone, I think we should start practicing our group number. Now…it has come to my attention that I have been…neglecting some of the talent in our midst, so I've decided to shake things up."

Everyone shared looks, with Rachel and Puck hoping it was going where they thought it was. Finn felt his stomach plummet as Mr. Schuester started handing out the sheet music, which turned into a glare of anger when he saw he didn't get the lead.

"Instead of Rachel and Finn getting the leads by default, I've decided to allow others to shine as well. So congratulations, Puck and Santana, you've got the leads this week." Will said, ignoring the surprised look that crossed Rachel's face.

She wanted others to have a shot at the male vocals, so he figured he'd do the same for the females. And if he got a small dose of satisfaction out of it, then that was between him and his conscience.

"Congrats, San, Noah." Rachel said, forcing a smile on her face.

Santana looked shocked, her eyes shooting between the sheet music and Rachel, not sure if the little hellcat was going to lose it or not. Puck wrapped an arm around the small girl's shoulders, knowing she had wanted the lead.

"Sorry, baby." Rachel leaned against him as he murmured into her hair, fighting back her initial response of throwing a fit. She'd wanted others to get a chance in the spotlight, so she should be happy for her friend, despite losing the solo herself.

"Are you okay with this?" Santana asked, knowing how much singing meant to the diva.

"Of course I am, San. You deserve it. Besides, there'll be plenty of solos in the future." Rachel said with a smile, pushing her anger away. Santana did deserve a chance to sing and she wasn't going to stand in the way of that. Besides, it wasn't as if this was Regionals.

"Thanks!" Santana said, pulling her into a quick hug before dashing over to chat happily with Brittany as everyone started moving towards the auditorium.

"You've really changed, babe. I'm proud of you." Puck muttered, pressing a kiss to her hair as they moved out of the choir room. Rachel wrapped an arm around his waist and held on, pleased with herself for not freaking out.

"Thanks. You have too, Noah, and I couldn't be happier." Looking up at him, Rachel gave him a soft smile that had the mohawked boy stopping to give her a passionate kiss. They were forced out of their haze when Finn walked past angrily, shoving Puck aside none too gently.

"He's so pissed." Puck said as they watched the tall teen stride down the hallway, a scowl planted on his face. Rachel shrugged and linked their hands.

"He'll get over it, I'm sure. C'mon, before Mr. Schue takes your solo from you out of spite." The two started back down the hallway, not wanting to give the director any reason to let Finn have the solo back.

/*/

"So, do you have any idea about what you might want to sing?" Rachel asked as her and Tina made their way into the music section of the library.

"Not really." Tina said with a little shrug.

"That's alright; that is what the library is for." Rachel said with a smile as they approached a short shelf that had books of sheet music.

She slid a pile to Tina to look through as she started in on her own. She'd just opened the book of Lionel Richie's greatest hits to read through his "Hello" lyrics when a voice interrupted her.

"Lionel Richie huh? One of my favorites." Lowering the book, Rachel's eyes widened as she took in the boy leaning against the shelf.

"Oh my god. You're Jessie St. James. You're in Vocal Adrenaline." Rachel breathed, shocked that she'd run into him at the Lima library of all places. He went to Carmel, after all, so why he was in Lima was unclear.

"And you're Rachel Berry. I saw you perform at Sectionals. Your rendition of "Don't Rain on my Parade" was flawed. You totally lacked Barbra's emotional depth. But you're talented." Jessie said, taking the book from her hands.

"Excuse me! I was not flawed!" Rachel retorted, glaring at the male singer, highly insulted. Tina watched the two interact in silence, not wanting to interrupt unless it was absolutely necessary.

"Don't be embarrassed. There was a time when I wasn't as amazing as I am now, so you'll get there. This is one of my favorite haunts. I like to come and flip though the celebrity biographies. Pick up some life style tips. I'm a senior now, so this year is kind of my victory lap. Snagging a fourth consecutive national championship would just be gravy." Jessie says arrogantly as he saunters around the shelves.

Rachel would have been enraptured by him, by Jessie St. James, if she'd been more naïve in life. If she hadn't been the target of malicious bullying for the last three years. If she didn't have a smoking hot boyfriend who could bench press Jessie. She shared a look with Tina before following, wondering where this was all going.

"I'm getting out of Ohio soon. I've gotten a full ride to a little school called the University of California Los Angeles. Maybe you've heard of it. It's in Los Angeles."

"Of course I've heard of it. But I'm surprised you're not going to NYADA or TISCH or a school in New York." Rachel said, raising a brow at him. She didn't miss the little flinch that he gave at the sound of NYADA and she wondered what the story behind that was.

"California is where all the stars are now a days." Jessie said with a shrug as he moved over to the piano.

"What do you say we take it for a spin?" He asks with a charming smile, sliding onto the bench without waiting for a reply.

"We're from rival teams, so I don't think it would be appropriate." Rachel said, glancing around at the people milling around.

"C'mon Rachel, live a little." Jessie says as he opens the book to the correct page and began playing the piano. Rachel looked over at Tina, who gave a little shrug, before seating herself beside him on the bench.

When the song was over, Rachel had to fight down the urge to turn to putty. She had a boyfriend who she loved and therefore could not find Jessie attractive! It was just that their voices melded wonderfully together, as if they were meant to sing together. But she already had a musical soulmate, so she pushed the girlie feelings away.

"We should do this more often. How's Friday night?" He asked with that same charming smile, which she'd bet not many girls had been able to resist in the past.

"Sorry, Jessie, but I have a boyfriend and he'd object to such a meeting. As wonderful as this has been, I have to get going." Rachel stood up, missing the shocked look on his face as she made her way back over to Tina.

"Wow, that was…"

"Yeah, C'mon, let's go." Rachel said, pulling the Asian girl out of the library without a backwards look. She just hoped that Noah didn't get too jealous when she told him about this.

/*/

(Thursday of "Hell-O" week)

Puck hadn't gotten as jealous as she'd expected, since he'd reasoned that the entire thing was probably a maneuver by the Carmel lead to rattle her. Which, after thinking about it, Rachel had to agree.

It was just too weird that he'd been in Lima at all, but for him to actually show up at the library at the same time as her? That was just too much to be a coincidence. And with him trying to ask her out, it was clear that he'd wanted to get with her to undermine the competition.

Of course, Puck had also said he'd punch the dude's lights out if he hit on her again, which just made Rachel giggle before he was on her. Rachel had study hall, but Puck had completely missed his first period, which Rachel would make certain he got the notes from so as not to get behind.

The rest of the day was really boring, as the only highlight was when Kurt, Mercedes and Tina performed Beyoncé's "Hello". It was a good performance, but the two divas had completely overshadowed the quiet Asian, so it was really more a duet than anything. But Tina seemed content with it, since she hadn't been able to find a song to perform on her own.

They then practiced their group number once more. Rachel was very pleased with how well Puck and Santana were doing, and hoped that Mr. Schue would let Puck sing lead with her for a competition. The sexual chemistry alone would surely nab them first prize.

/*/

(Friday of "Hell-O" week)

Rachel was startled from her breakfast by the doorbell ringing, as Puck usually just honked his horn to alert her to his arrival. Setting her spoon down, the short girl quickly made her way to the front door so that whoever it was didn't have to wait too long, seeing as it was a bitterly cold winter morning.

"Quinn? What…" Rachel spluttered, astonished to see the blonde standing on her front porch.

"Listen up Berry, I'm here to clear the air, that's all. I don't like you, probably will never like you, but I kinda feel bad for the way I've been treating you and Puck after what you did for me. I'm not interested in Puck; Couch Sylvester wanted me to rattle your cage so you'd quit Glee and the club wouldn't make it to Regionals with a hope of winning. So there, I don't actually want your boyfriend."

Rachel was gaping at her, but she couldn't seem to pull her mouth closed as she stared dumbfounded at the blonde. She'd never have guessed this was how her morning was going to turn out, that's for sure.

"Oh…well good then, because I'm unwilling to part with him at the moment."

"Whatever. So…truce?" Quinn asked, arching a brow at her from under her cute red hat.

"Uh…sure, I guess." Quinn gave a curt nod before spinning on her heel and making her way back to her car. Rachel just stood there for a few minutes, completely astonished at what had just happened. Had she just agreed to a truce with Quinn Fabray?

Shutting the door, Rachel went back to her breakfast as she thought about how this might change things. She was extremely relieved that she didn't need to keep a constant eye on the pretty girl, as it was getting extremely tiring and bothersome. Plus, Puck would be glad that the annoying texts stopped, so that was also of the good. Maybe things were looking up for the Glee club as a whole.

AN: Okay, so I hope you like the addition I made. I'm not sure when the next chapter will be up as I'm still sick and it seems to be getting worse. Hope you all enjoyed.

"Cockiness (I love it)" - Rihanna

"Hello Again" – Neil Diamond

"Hello" – Evanescence

"Hello Hello" – Paramore

"Hello, Good Morning" Diddy Dirty Money (ft. T.I.)

"Hello" - Beyoncé