Still don't own Glee or its original characters.

Thank you for all your reviews and personal messages!

I'm currently busy with Christmas preparations, but maybe I'll manage to update another chapter for you in a couple of days... Until then, enjoy!

Chapter 59

When Rachel got home on the second day that Quinn was out of the hospital, she did not put off calling her dads any longer. Hiram answered almost immediately. He must have sat at his desk working with his laptop to accept the call so quickly.

Rachel definitely needed and wanted to share with her fathers what had happened over the past days.

Hiram was shocked when he heard about Quinn's accident, but when Rachel proceeded telling them that Quinn would be all right and how they both had handled the whole situation, he was immensely relieved.

Honey, this was not easy for you, the whole year was not easy for you, to say the least. But the way you handled this situation was really courageous and it was great that you were there for Quinn.

Rachel looked down at her hands; she didn't feel like she deserved the praise.

She changed the topic and told her dad about the planned interview and how Santana insisted on being there for her.

Hiram laughed. Well, she sounds like a tough cookie. But she is right. I feel better knowing that there is someone with you. And not… he raised his hand to stall Rachel's comment, … because you can't hear, ok? It is just that your whole journey through the past year is a sensitive topic so it is good to have moral support.

"Yes. I know. I just hope that with that the whole Sharon Basont problem is done with."

Well, if she keeps causing trouble, let me know. I'll come and shake some sense into her, if all else fails. Her dad signed and reminded Rachel much of a male Santana just now.

Rachel's eyes widened with surprise when she realized that he was only half joking. Her dad was not a violent man, he couldn't even kill a spider and he had never hit another person in his whole life. To hear him offer this in earnest told her how much it seemed to shake him that she had to suffer such unjustified treatment – in public on top. The protectiveness that demonstrated his words touched Rachel's heart.

"Aw, daddy, that's so sweet. But let's see if we can outsmart Sharon at her own game first. If nothing else helps, I'll come back to your offer, ok?"

Hiram chuckled. Okay, honey.

Then Rachel debated to tell them about her newest project, but decided against it in the end. It was still too fresh and she did not know yet if it would actually happen. She wanted to talk to Kayla and her friend first before spreading the word further. It was ok for Santana and Quinn to know, but that was about it for now until she had more news.

Well, maybe she would tell Lauren about it, too, as her new friend was so involved in her progress and could also provide her with some valuable input. But these were about all people who could know about it for now.

Hiram looked at his daughter and again saw the change in her that the re-connection with Quinn had caused. The dark circles under her eyes did not have that deep dark shadow anymore and there was a spark back in her eyes. She seemed more alive again.

Their little girl seemed to be made of much tougher wood than they had ever anticipated. He and Leroy knew that her outer demanding and tough demeanor often covered the much softer and sensitive part of Rachel.

Her breakdown in Lima had blindsided him and his husband completely and he was surprised and relieved that Rachel had managed to come to terms with all that had triggered it.

They had feared for her life more than once during the past year. But she seemed to draw on a secret source of strength that somehow kept her going. To receive such a devastating blow, losing her hearing when her career just had taken off, would have crushed anyone. Still, she managed to pull herself up, kept fighting, fell down again many times on her way and yet got up again.

She tried to face her fears, her challenges, her mistakes and soldiered on.

The pride inside him swelled when he gazed at this wonderful and beautiful being in front of him that he was lucky enough to call his daughter.

Rachel cocked her head. Her dad seemed lost in thoughts and hadn't said anything for almost a full minute while she watched a range of emotions chase across his face.

"Daddy, are you all right? Don't feel rejected, if you want to punch someone so badly, maybe we can find a boxing ring for you or something."

This made him laugh and the sentimental moment rushed by. Thanks, I'm fine, pumpkin. Just had a… softie moment.

"A softie moment?" Rachel frowned. She was not sure if she had read his signs correctly. Hiram had gotten quite good at signing, but some words and phrases still needed to be either spelled, written down or described. Nevertheless, he tried really hard.

Hiram nodded. I'm proud of you, Rachel. I'm proud of your strength, your courage and your honesty. You don't shy away long from the truth and that is one of your strengths. I'm glad you have come so far and that you were not too proud to look upon your mistakes and try to make things right. That needs courage and wisdom.

Rachel breathed a smile. "Well, I had good teachers all around me. Friends and Family who did not shy away to show me the truth."

But it takes courage to face it and wisdom to recognize it as such. And these two traits came from within yourself. Hiram smiled again and studied his daughter for a moment.

Rachel bit her lip and let his words sink in without saying anything in return.

Anyway, I'll let you go now. Besides, I'll meet your dad in half an hour for dinner, so I have to get ready, Hiram signed again when he had the attention from his daughter again.

"Mmmm, a romantic evening, nice! Hug dad from me!"

Sure will! Take care honey and let's talk again soon, ok?

Rachel nodded and waved. "Bye." Then she blew a kiss at the screen that Hiram caught and pretended to swallow, which made his daughter laugh.

Still taste like when you were little, he joked. Bye now, sweetie!

Rachel shook her head in amusement and then disconnected the call. Leaning back on her couch, she felt contentment spread through her. It felt so good to be connected again, to share her life with her dads like she used to.

And it felt even better to start sharing her life with Quinn again. It was hardly believable that they had only been separated for a week, but the intensity of the feeling that came with the separation made it seem like a whole year.

It was interesting to learn that the actual amount of time that passed sometimes did not matter; often the perceived time span differed greatly, depending on the intensity of the emotions that came with the moment.

A couple of minutes later the Skype icon pulsated again, indicating another call coming in. When Rachel accepted she was surprised to see Quinn on the other side of the screen.

"Hi, is everything ok?" Rachel asked concerned.

Quinn nodded.

Hi! Yes, everything is fine. I just wanted to ask you, if it is ok to give Beth your Skype contact. I just talked to her and she was asking about you and wanted to know if it was possible to speak to you. The blonde paused for a moment. I think she was really disappointed that we didn't come to dinner.

Rachel hung her head and chewed her lip. She still felt very bad about letting the little girl down. In fact, she should have thought about apologizing to her.

She was surprised that Beth took the initiative to call her, though.

"Sure, of course it is all right."

Quinn picked up on Rachel's emotions. Rachel, it's ok. I explained to Beth that there was a situation that you needed to come to terms with first – that we both needed to come to terms with. I didn't tell her the details, but she seemed to understand better than I would have thought for a ten year old.

"Oh. She seemed very bright," Rachel smiled.

Yes, and she's definitely got that from me, Quinn laughed. Anyway, she might want to call you tonight, so I won't hold you up any longer. She waited for a second then added with a soft smile: I'm happy to see you again tomorrow.

Rachel reached out and touched the screen where Quinn's cheek was. She much rather preferred to feel the real skin under her fingertips.

Despite the kiss they had shared and holding hands they were still both reserved about any further physical contact. She wondered when that would change again. "Me too. I… I liked spending the day with you." A shy smile arched across her lip. "Have a good night, Quinn, and thank you for letting me know about Beth."

You are welcome. Sleep tight tonight, ok?

Rachel lifted her right hand; thumb, index finger and pinky extended and wiggled it slightly in front of the camera.

Quinn answered in the same manner and then touched the screen with her forefinger, as if wanting as much physical contact as Rachel. With a smile both signed off.

… … …

Just like Quinn had predicted, Beth did indeed call Rachel that same evening. Apparently she had just come out of her bath, because she was sitting with a pink bathrobe and wet hair in front of the screen.

Rachel wondered shortly, how they would conduct this conversation, since she didn't have an interpreter with her, but was relieved when she noticed how adapt the girl was with the whole technique of using the chat window. It told her that this was probably not the first time she did that.

Hi Rachel! Quinn told me it was okay to call you. I just wanted to talk to you and show you all the signs I have learned, since you couldn't come to our dinner. I have learned even more in the mean time!

Rachel smiled at the enthusiasm that seeped through the written lines.

"Hi Beth! I'm glad you called. I am truly sorry to have disappointed you for not coming to your house on Christmas."

Yes, that was sad, but it's ok, Quinn explained it to me. Are you all better now? The sincere look on Beth face was just adorable.

Rachel nodded and started using her hands in parallel. If Beth was still into learning sign language, she might as well help. She made a fist and bent it once. "Yes." Then she moved her straight right hand from her mouth with fingertips first touching her lips, forward in a small arc. "Thank you."

You want to know what I've learned? Beth wiggled on her chair and the brunette had to laugh at the excitement she exuded.

"Sure, go ahead." Rachel noticed how Beth followed the movements of her hands with her eyes and a look of concentration.

Beth first repeated the signs she had learned from Rachel at the Lima Bean, asking how she was and telling her that she was fine herself. She forbade Rachel to talk and asked her to only sign to her. This would make the exercise more fun, Beth stated and Rachel more than willingly complied. This was definitely a call of a different kind and she already liked it.

When they had covered the pleasantries, the blonde girl with the hazel eyes that reminded the brunette so much of Quinn's, continued. Slowly and with a face of utter concentration she formed the next signs, telling Rachel what her name was, where she lived and what hobbies she liked.

The former singer was truly impressed by the large vocabulary the girl presented and also by the accuracy of the sings. She definitely had also inherited the streak of perfection from her mother.

When Beth had finished signing the information about herself, Rachel answered. Even though she was not allowed to speak, she said the words she assumed were unfamiliar to Beth aloud, so the girl could identify the sign.

I am "impressed!" You know so much "already!"

Beth silently repeated the word "impressed" and "already", letting her hands form the signs she had just witnessed Rachel use.

"How come you are so interested to learn sign language, Beth?" Rachel asked aloud after a while of the silent exchange. The brunette was really surprised that Beth took it so seriously and was impressed by her determination. She felt honored and touched that the little girl she hardly knew showed more consideration and interest then some of her old friends from the show business.

Beth shrugged and typed: You are Quinn's friend and I like you. Besides, it's cool to have a secret language at school, I'm teaching my best friend too, she grinned.

Rachel snorted. She could so imagine Beth and her friend exchanging unspoken words at school and the teachers were none the wiser.

"Don't get into trouble, though, promise? Don't tease your teachers with this, ok?"

Oh, you sound just like Quinn and mom! Beth pouted and Rachel chuckled.

"Ok, tell you what. I teach you a couple of words every week if you promise you won't use ASL to cheat or talk bad about other people in front of them. Not that I think you would, but…" she thought about how best to explain it. Rachel didn't think Beth was the type to misuse her knowledge, but she also wanted her to understand that this was not just a game, but Beth took the words right out of her mouth.

You don't want me to think this is just for fun, because it's the only real way you can hear and it's important to you.

"Yes, that is correct." This girl was really perceptive. "And using it correctly shows a form of respect for the language and the people using it."

I promise I won't do anything nasty, Beth solemnly declared with a serious face. She looked like she truly meant it.

"Ok," the brunette smiled, then. "How have you learned so much so quickly?"

There are a lot of videos on you tube and there are also some websites that are like video dictionaries and show you the sign for each word. That's so cool! And my mom bought me a book with pictures.

The girl's enthusiasm was back.

But I'd much rather learn it from you, because than I can already practice right away. And if you sign while you talk I can also learn.

Rachel agreed and then asked what Beth wanted to know. The girl asked her about some general words and phrases like walking, talking, sleeping, eating, family members, locations, and question words. The former singer remembered her first lessons with Carmen and used this structure to give Beth the most important signs first.

After they had covered a couple of words and weaved them into short sentences, Shelby bent over Beth shoulder and waved at the screen. She moved her lips in what looked like "Hi Rachel."

Beth frowned and turned to say something to her mother.

Rachel couldn't quite make out what it was, but it looked like she told her to type something, as she pointed to the screen and then at the keyboard.

Shelby rolled her eyes at her daughter's reprimand and bent over the keys.

Hi Rachel! My daughter just reminded me "very gently" that I should use the chat window. Actually I didn't want to disturb you two, I just wanted to say hello. She smiled.

"Don't worry, it's ok," Rachel laughed and since Shelby was already there, she apologized to her as well for the dinner cancelation.

The other woman let her fingers rest on the table for a moment before she typed her answer with Beth frowning next to her.

Quinn told me about your break up. And about what happened at New Year's Eve. I'm glad Quinn is ok and that you two somehow made up through all this. I'm sorry that you have to go through all this. I wish there was something I could do.

Rachel bit her lip. It was nice to hear that Shelby cared so much about her.

"Well, it took me a while, but I realized how wrong I was eventually. I'm just glad I had some friends who helped me open my eyes. Quinn and I have been talking the past days and I think we are on a good way."

Rachel was ware that Beth was still privy to their conversation and she did not want to go too much into detail with the girl listening in.

I'm very glad to hear that. I let you get back to Beth, maybe we can catch up when you two are finished?

"Yes, I would like that! Talk to you later!"

When Shelby left the room, Beth asked typing: Did you and Quinn have a fight? Was that why you didn't come to dinner?

"Yes," Rachel nodded. "I had a very bad day and I said not so very nice things to Quinn. I'm truly sorry about that and the mistakes I made. So I apologized and now we are talking again." She hoped that the girl did not want to know any more details and was glad when she started talking about her own experience.

I had a fight once with Scarlet. She's my best friend. She said some mean things to me which weren't true and I hated her for doing that.

"What happened then?"

I didn't talk to her for a long time. It made me really sad and I missed her. She found out that the things she had said to me - which she had heard from someone else - weren't true and then apologized. We are now playing together again and sit next to each other at school!

"That's great to hear. And it's nice that you forgave her." Wishing she could talk about herself and Quinn as easily again as Beth talked about her best friend.

"Listen, your mom wanted to talk to me, how about you call her for me and we continue our chat and ASL lesson next week, if you like?"

Beth nodded and clapped her hand. Yes, I would like that very much! Same time on Thursday? When Rachel nodded, the girl turned her head and called out to her mom.

Rachel smiled, having imagined Beth to stand up and get her mom instead of shouting through the house at the top of her lungs – or at least it looked like she was doing just that.

Shelby entered after a moment, talking to her daughter and shaking her head slightly, probably reprimanding her. Then they swapped seats and Beth waved good-bye at Rachel, pressing a kiss on her mom's cheek.

When Beth had left, Shelby wanted to know from Rachel what had happened and her other daughter tentatively told her about the last weeks.

The older woman nodded when she was finished, now she knew both sides of the story. After a short silence between them, Shelby started typing again.

I'm glad you two are talking again. she paused again for a second, I didn't know about your relationship with Quinn before we met at the café, but the way you two acted around each other showed me that you really love each other. And after all that has happened I really wish for you both to find happiness.

"Thank you Shelby," was all Rachel could say, gracing the other woman with a small smile. She saw in her face that her words were sincere.

Shelby cocked her head slightly and changed the subject.

Listen, we'll come to New York for Quinn's birthday and it would be great to see you then as well. In the meantime, maybe we can keep a chat line open once a week? I don't want to sound nosy, but I'd like to hear what is going on in your life, if that is okay with you.

"Sure. Beth also wanted to talk to me to keep on learning sign language, so the channel is already open," Rachel explained.

Then Shelby surprised her by signing Great, moving her palms facing forward at the height of her face and then again at the height of her chest, as if touching an imaginary wall twice. Then she continued signing. Take care!

"You… when did you learn?" Rachel's astonishment was obvious in her voice.

Shelby grinned. You wouldn't want Beth to outsmart me, now, would you? She joked, typing again. Then she sobered. I'm learning with her, most of the time. Rachel, this is important to me and I really want to be able to talk to you. I will check for ASL classes here in Lima to get us moving along, but please keep your weekly schedule with Beth, she was so excited to call you tonight. She really likes you, you know.

"Thank you, Shelby. That is really nice of you. And I'm glad Beth isn't holding a grudge against me. I really like her as well."

Well, and I'm glad that my two daughters are getting along, Shelby smiled.

Rachel had to shake her head at the intricate situation. Shelby was her birthmother, Quinn her girlfriend and Beth was Quinn's daughter, Having been adopted by Shelby.

Really, even a very inventive soap opera writer would not have come up with such a constellation.

Both women agreed that Rachel would call Beth again the following week and then said good-bye.

When Rachel went to bed that night she felt her lips curl up in a smile again while thinking of her day and Beth.

Of all people she would never had imagined to become friends with a ten year old who took on learning sign language as if it was the most natural thing on earth.

Thinking back of how accepting Quinn had been or Puck, for that matter, she actually should not have been surprised about Beth's behavior. Seemed like the girl had inherited all the good traits form her parents and Shelby's upbringing rounded everything up. Beth would surely grow up to be a wonderful, funny and caring person.

... ... ...

Quinn was surprised to feel less stiff then she expected when she woke up the next morning. Maybe all that past Cheerio practice and the current dance rehearsals still paid off. Carefully she moved her left arm. It still hurt, but not as much, so she decided to leave off the sling. As for her right arm, she managed to lift it up to her chin already without her ribs feeling like someone thrust a dagger into her side.

Great, brushing her teeth should also work better now. Santana had tied her toothbrush to a wooden cooking spoon two nights before because she couldn't bring her hand up high enough and she absolutely refused to let someone else help her brush her teeth. It made her feel too helpless in regards to the comparably "small" injuries.

Happy about her newly won freedom in movement, Quinn got dressed. It was still slow progress and she needed to be careful to not move too quickly, but at least she felt a little bit more like herself. The headache had reduced to a dull throbbing that she could ignore for a while before taking the first pain medication. Besides, she didn't want to stay on meds twenty four hours. She needed to see how she was really healing.

Maybe she could go back to work mid next week. It was Thursday now and over the next few days her condition should improve further. Quinn had not tried to sing yet, afraid to take too deep breaths, but she would try the next days and see what her ribs where telling her of that idea.

After she got dressed, she almost bumped into Santana in the hallway.

"Morning. You still here? It's after eight," she greeted the Latina.

"Mhm, yeah. Have a late schedule today. When is Rachel coming over?"

"Around nine thirty. Why?"

"Good. I need to talk to her. That reporter guy wrote back to me."

Quinn's left eyebrow shot up. "Oh, what did he say?"

"Nothing we like," Santana huffed.

Now, Quinn was alarmed. "What? What did he write?"

"Apparently he heard through the grapevine that Sharon is short of releasing another article, probably blowing more of her fucking bullshit into the air. This time she allegedly has pictures from Rachel at the club and at the concert."

The blonde digested this for a moment. "And, do you think Rachel's interview might in any way help - if we manage to publish it before that one?"

Santana shrugged. "It would definitely take some wind out of Sharon's sail."

"Don't know if that will ever be enough. I'd rather destroy her whole ship and make her sink."

Santana chuckled at the analogy. "Yeah, agreed. But, the canons will have to wait if Lady Berry still wants to play tactics."

Quinn nodded pensively. She didn't say anything for a moment and rubbed her chin.

"What?" Santana prompted her.

"Nothing. Just... I'm a little tired even though I slept until now. Guess the past days are still catching up with me. Emotionally, physically, rationally, just in every way."

The Latina nodded. "Can understand that. It's been a tough ride for both of you. Hell, for all of us! Don't think I or Lady Hummel did suffer any less! Well, maybe a little, but not by much!"

Quinn looked at her friend. "I know. God, it's just so hard to understand sometimes. Guess, if you don't really live through something like that yourself, you know, what Rachel is going through, then it will always be hard to completely comprehend. In a way, I could understand what Rachel meant by wanting to be with deaf people as well."

"Yes. But I'm glad she came around and realized that her world consists of both sides and that she has a whole lot of support around her."

Despite all consideration Santana had come to realize that even though they all learned sign language and were very thoughtful about which activities they planned so Rachel could enjoy them also, there was still a lot of experience missing to better understand their friend's situation.

"Nevertheless, we also need to gain a little more understanding."

Quinn frowned. "How so?"

"You'll see. Patience Q!"

"Somehow that doesn't ease my nerves. Whenever Santana Lopez plans a surprise…"

"…it's always fucking good, you gotta admit that Quinn!"

"Yeah, but somehow I have the feeling that this is something different."

Santana narrowed her eyes. "Why?"

"Don't know, just a gut feeling," Quinn shrugged and grimaced.

"Huh," was all Santana answered. When it was clear that she wouldn't volunteer any further information, Quinn changed the subject. She would just have to wait and see.

"When do you have to leave for work?"

"Have my first client at ten thirty. What are you up to today? Any plans? You must be getting bored sitting on the couch all day. Unless..."

"Unless what?" Quinn frowned.

"Unless you're making out with Berry," Santana smirked and moved out of her friend's reach who wanted to slap her on the arm.

"Shut up."

"If you're that agile again, I'm gonna execute my little plan with you on Sunday."

"That sounds almost like a threat."

"Nah, it's gonna be a nice little excursion and no, you don't have to move that much. So your bruised ribs won't be an excuse."

"Yeah, ask me again in three days." Quinn frowned, trying to figure out what Santana could have meant by "little excursion". She hated not knowing what her friend was planning, but the other woman wouldn't budge.

"Don't worry, you'll see soon enough!" Was all the Latina answered, which was not very helpful, Quinn thought.

… … …

That morning Rachel caught an earlier train by chance and rang the bell a little sooner than planned. She still felt uncomfortable using the key from the apartment that was still in her possession. Somehow it wrong to barge right in.

"Yo, Berry, come in," Santana greeted her friend when the brunette arrived a little after nine.

"What?" Rachel frowned and then caught Quinn's moving hands out of the corner of her eye before the Latina could answer.

Santana just greeted you in her Lopez street style, Quinn signed from the kitchen and repeated her friend's words signing. The blonde was relieved to notice that she could also sign better than the day before. So much progress on every level, this was bound to be a good day, she thought.

Rachel came in and hung her bag over one of the chairs and placed her coat on top.

"Good morning!" She placed two large cups on the table. "Sorry, I didn't think you were still here, Santana, otherwise I would have brought you also a coffee."

I can take just yours.

"Chai Latte with Soy Milk and an extra shot of caramel?"

Santana made a face and pretended to gag. Keep it.

Rachel smiled smugly. "Thought so."

The Latina went to the counter and grabbed the pad while Rachel went over to Quinn and gave her a gentle hug, careful to not inflict more pain. When she pulled back, she felt Quinn's arm around her waist not letting her budge. She looked into the hazel eyes and could not hold back any longer. She tilted her head ever so slightly and let her lips brush over Quinn's. As soon as they touched she pulled back again, only to repeat the same motion. This time she lingered a bit longer and when she pulled back she felt Quinn's lips follow hers.

Rachel smiled a little and gave in, meeting her half way. Their lips parted and they shared a most tender and loving kiss. It had felt like ages to them since they last had shared such intimacy and neither of them wanted it to stop.

Rachel's throat escaped an involuntary mewing sound and made Quinn sigh in return. They were lost in each other and forgot the whole world around them.

"Ahem." Santana cleared her throat.

Quinn pulled back reluctantly and signed: We have an audience.

"Oh." The brunette turned halfway and bashfully looked at the floor. Jesus, she had totally forgotten about Santana.

"Yeah, not that I don't like a good show, but I need to talk to Rachel before I have to leave for work."

She handed Rachel the pad where she had written something down. She had not signed her former sentence and saw the question in Rachel's face.

It was really time she got better at signing, this was so tedious and Santana hated it that she forgot sometimes to sign along when she shot out a remark. Besides it was hard to bring across the words in ASL the way she would verbally. But she tried, nevertheless, not wanting to give up on her signature, which often amused Rachel.

Santana held out her hand and Rachel gave her back the pad without having read what the Latina had written first.

Santana quickly scribbled down what she had said, not wanting Quinn having to interpret. She should save her strength to talk to Rachel and not act as an interpreter.

When Rachel read Santana's words, she looked up.

"So he replied."

Santana nodded. Tuesday is on – if you are still wanting to do it, she wrote.

Rachel nodded slowly. "Yes. I do."

The Latina exchanged a quick glance with Quinn.

"What?" Rachel frowned.

That guy told me something else as well.

"What?" The petite woman's brown eyes darted between Quinn and Santana.

Quinn raised her hands and signed.

He heard that Sharon is planning another article about you.

"Oh. I thought – I hoped – that she somehow had forgotten about me since we didn't hear anything from her for quite a while now."

Apparently not.

Rachel shrugged. "Well, does he know when we should meet and what Sharon is going to do?"

Santana nodded and told her what she knew. Then she wrote: We should do your interview as soon as possible. Remmond offered to do it tomorrow, Saturday, instead of next Tuesday. Then he could run it latest on Monday. Maybe even Sunday.

"That soon?" Rachel had expected to have a couple of days more to mentally prepare for this.

If you don't want to do it, you don't have to, Rachel. Quinn told her.

The brunette shook her head after a moment. "No, I'll do it. "

Good. We can meet him at the Sheraton Hotel at ten in the morning.

"Why do we have to go to a hotel?"

Because he suggested some privacy and apparently sometimes he can use a suite the magazine rents for interviews. This way others won't overhear the conversation and it ensures privacy and confidentiality or something like that.

"Ok. So tomorrow it is, then." Rachel sighed and looked at Quinn who smiled encouragingly at her.

Yes.

"I still wonder why she is doing this. I'm nothing, I'm not a huge star, and even if, why would she go to so much trouble to discredit me? I don't get it. Just to ruin my life in case I should ever consider to go back on stage or what?"

Rachel, we might never find out the real reason. Do it your way and let her run into her own wall. In the end she and others will see that she was wrong. I'll come with you tomorrow.

"Oh no you don't! First of all, I don't want you to move too much and secondly, why do you want to give that reporter more to talk about? Even if he agreed to only publish what has been agreed on, we cannot be absolutely sure that he'll stick to it in the end. Once any news are out, the damage is done, no matter what we agreed on."

So let him. I don't care.

Rachel still shook her head. "Quinn, Santana will be with me and hopefully Carmen. I have to ask her if she is available tomorrow. Anyway, I won't be alone and you have to rest!"

But…

"No 'but'. I mean it Quinn. You have to rest."

Yes, Berry is right. You have to rest, because we are going out the next day. Santana chimed in.

"What?" Rachel exclaimed with a fairly incredulous look on their faces.

"Listen, apparently Quinn seems fit enough – as incredible as it is – to want to move around and about, so I will take her somewhere Sunday night."

"Santana, Quinn is still hurting and she's had a concussion don't you think whatever you have planned can wait?" Rachel stepped in front of the Latina.

Santana found it very touching how Rachel tried to shield Quinn from her.

Quinn tapped Rachel on her shoulder and signed while talking to Santana.

"Is that what you told me about this morning? That little outing?"

Yes. Santana turned towards Rachel. Don't worry, she does not have to move much.

"As if that's a consolation." Rachel huffed.

Santana turned from Rachel and looked at the blonde for a moment, trying to gauge her mood.

"Quinn, I believe it is important that we do this. Sooner than later."

The former Cheerios captain studied her old friend. "Fine." She then conceded and rolled her eyes.

Rachel looked between the two women. "I have no idea what you just agreed on, but don't underestimate her injuries, Santana." Then she turned to Quinn. "And you shouldn't overexert yourself. A concussion is serious.

Quinn's hands moved through the air while she said the words out loud for Santana's benefit. "I know, Rachel. Let's just see what she has planned and then I can still decide to stay home. And let's get you through this interview first. That is more important."

"Yes, that…" Rachel breathed and her voice trailed off.

"Ok you two lovebirds, I've gotta go. So, we'll meet here tomorrow and then drive to the hotel together, ok?" she asked Rachel.

"Sure."

The Sheraton was not far from Quinn's apartment and depending on the weather they might even be able to walk there.

Santana nodded and went to her room to gather her belongings, and then she moved towards the entrance to grab her jacket.

"See you guys later," she waved and slipped out.

"I'll quickly ask Carmen if she is available tomorrow to help with the interpretation."

Quinn nodded while Rachel plucked her phone from her bag and typed a quick message to her teacher, apologizing for bothering her on a Saturday.

Carmen had originally planned to be away on that weekend, but had canceled her trip. So she was free and agreed to help Rachel.

"Good, all set. Let the show begin," Rachel exclaimed bravely after sending her thanks back to her teacher.

"Come here," Quinn whispered with a little motion of her head and pulled Rachel closer.

The brunette willingly stepped nearer and let her eyes rest on Quinn's lips which curved up in a small smile.

The blonde used her right hand to sign the next words. Glad you came. And she pressed a soft kiss on Rachel's lips.

"Mmmhhh, me too."

They continued kissing and Rachel slid a hand under Quinn's hair, softly caressing the smooth skin at the nape of her neck.

Quinn felt like her heart was continuing to heal little by little with every touch from Rachel. And Rachel dared to open her heart more and more to let her love for the other woman pour out and she hoped they would continue to heal together.

... … …

The two women spent the day snuggled up on the couch watching movies. After lunch Quinn suggested boldly that she wanted to go out for a walk. The sky was blue and the sun was out. The weather beckoned indeed for a little stroll outside.

They bundled up in warm clothes and slowly made their way outside. Except for the car ride home the other day this was the first time in five days that Quinn felt some fresh air. She closed her eye and inhaled deeply, letting the sun caress her features.

She felt Rachel take her gloved hand and found the full lips smiling at her, and she loved the way the sunlight always gave the dark brown of Rachel's eyes that warm mahogany shade. Sometimes it even looked like dark cherry wood. She could get lost in those eyes.

"You ok?" Rachel's soft voice pulled her out of her thoughts.

She nodded and tucked the brunette along. It felt good to keep moving. Her ribs still smarted but her left arm was only a dull pain that she could easily ignore for a while. The headache had also lessened considerable. She felt invigorated by the clean and crisp air and the sun on her skin.

The walked through the park and it looked like the sky had spread a million little diamonds across the lawn and trees. The sun sparkled in the snow and gave off a wonderful play of light.

Quinn felt Rachel tug at her hand and stopped to look at the other woman.

"I have missed you so much!" She hugged Quinn lightly.

I have missed you too, Rachel. I'm glad you didn't give up…on us or yourself.

"And I'm grateful that you didn't push me away."

We are all entitled to make mistakes, Quinn smiled wistfully.

"Hm." Rachel turned and they started walking again. "I have read some of your letters, Quinn."

You have?

"Yes." Rachel chuckled. "I knew you were quite eloquent, but I was not aware you were that poetic."

I've got many hidden talents.

"That's definitely true," Rachel answered thinking of what Quinn's tongue was capable of doing.

When did you read them?

"When I went home yesterday." She scuffed at a little snow pile on the ground with her foot. "I read the one where you described your visit to my musical and how you hid behind a tree when I came to see you at Yale after you hadn't talked to me for months."

Quinn noticed the pain in Rachel's eyes and reached out to tilt her head up from where she was looking at the ground.

I never want to hide from you again, Rachel. Even then it broke my heart and I never thought I could heal again. And now…

"I broke it all over," Rachel stated flatly.

Quinn vehemently shook her head. No. Well, yes, it hurt a lot what you said and did. But we have talked about that and we are moving on, ok? Rachel nodded slowly, still not looking Quinn in the eye, letting her gaze rest on her hands.

She was glad that Quinn wore light colored gloves that were a good contrast against the dark coat, which made it easy to see the signs.

What I was going to say was that we both have made our share of mistakes. But if none of us had the gift of forgiveness, then we would not be here now. And I'd much rather live life to the fullest and make mistakes and learn from them than always hide in fear and false pretense.

"But why is learning always connected to pain and difficulties? Why can't it just be easy?"

Quinn chuckled. I guess the easy things still give us learnings, but we don't see them as such, because they are fun to do and to experience. Maybe we should just shift our focus a little.

"Yeah, you might be right." The reached a bench where another couple had just left and they sat down.

Rachel remembered one of the scribbles on a napkin about the things Quinn loved about her. She told Quinn about it, signing along now that she had not wrapped her arm around Quinn's waist anymore and the blonde laughed.

I remember that one. Wait! She closed her eyes and recalled her own words, forming them into their air in front of her with her hands.

I love those eyes with the long silky lashes, the color that takes on a slightly golden brown tint whenever the light shines into them at a certain angle – just like now – your hair, so soft and wavy if not tamed it by a hair dryer and brush and then those lips! So full and soft, just begging me to kiss them every time I see them.

Quinn opened her eyes again and smiled broadly.

"You forgot about my ears." Rachel reminded her. "There was also something written about my delicate ears."

"Ah yes." And the blonde continued signing. Your ears, the delicate soft shells that… She broke off and reached out, gently touching Rachel's earlobe.

"You can say the rest," Rachel gently nudged her.

Quinn took a deep breath. …that hold the perfect hearing for a perfect pitch. She crooked her head and studied her girlfriend.

Rachel picked up the blonde's hands and kissed them once. "Maybe I'll frame that piece of napkin. You know, once you'll be very famous I can make a lot of money with it. Just like Boyce did with his piece of buttered paper. I still don't understand how this could be declared as art." She shook her head.

"Thank you for all your wonderful words, Quinn. And for writing down why you had to find me. I read that letter, too."

Quinn recalled that night at the theater where she saw someone in the audience that had reminded her of Rachel and that had set so many emotions in motion, tearing down the walls she had erected around her heart to hide from the truth.

"Funny how history seems to be repeating with us, don't you think? My accident, then yours, our two brilliant minds that sometimes let us act so irrationally, the way we always find back to each other, supporting each other in times we need it most."

"Yes, and I'm kinda glad that you already had your brush with a disability, otherwise I would be really worried you'd try that as well."

Quinn laughed. Well, yes, good thing that this is behind me, you're right.

"I'm getting a little cold, let's get back and grab a coffee on the way, ok? My treat!"

Sure. Quinn stood up and held out her hand. Rachel grabbed it and stood up, using the momentum to lock her lips with Quinn's to share another passionate kiss before they sought out the warmth of a coffee shop.

They wondered briefly what Santana had in stock for Quinn this weekend but came up empty. They would just have to wait and see.

Back at the apartment, both cuddled under a blanket to warm their frozen limbs. The sun had been nice, but it did not radiate enough warmth to ward off the biting cold. Rachel prepared some hot cocoa and they finished the movie they had started earlier.

Despite the excursion Quinn felt good and not very tired. She wondered if the boost of happiness she felt around Rachel also spurted her healing.

In the early evening, around six Rachel had to get ready for a dinner date with Lauren and Max that they had agreed on already a few days ago. She was quite reluctant to leave the nice and warm cuddly place on Quinn's side and out of the spur of the moment she asked her:

"Do you want to come and have dinner with us? We are meeting not far from here."

Quinn thought about the suggestion a moment. She felt ok and the outing of the afternoon had shown to her that she was ready to see something else then her four walls. Boldly she agreed, hoping she did not strain herself too much.