5.15

Mercedes pulls back from the kiss, her lips swollen and her cheeks flushed with the intensity of their embrace. She gazes into Sam's eyes, a soft smile playing at the corners of her lips.

"Told you so," Sam says cheekily, a playful grin spreading across his face.

Mercedes can't help but laugh at his remark, the sound filling the room with warmth and joy. She playfully rolls her eyes, shaking her head in mock exasperation.

"Shut up," she teases, her voice laced with affection.

But there's a lightness in her tone, a sense of happiness that she can't quite contain. It's as if a weight has been lifted from her shoulders, leaving behind nothing but love and contentment.

Sam reaches out, gently tucking a strand of hair behind Mercedes's ear. His touch is tender, filled with a silent reassurance of his love for her.

After their playful exchange, Sam's expression softens as he looks at Mercedes with a hint of seriousness in his eyes.

"So, does this mean we're... dating now?" he asks, his voice tinged with hope.

Mercedes meets his gaze, her own expression thoughtful as she considers his question.

"We'll take it slow," she replies gently, her tone filled with warmth and affection. "See how it goes."

Sam nods in understanding, a small smile playing at the corners of his lips.

"Okay," he says softly, his voice tinged with a sense of acceptance. "I can do that."

There's a sense of relief in his words, as if a weight has been lifted from his shoulders. He's grateful for the chance to explore their relationship at their own pace, without any pressure or expectations.

Mercedes reaches out, placing a hand on Sam's arm, her touch gentle and reassuring.

As Mercedes stands up, Sam's hand instinctively reaches out to grab hers, his fingers intertwining with hers as he looks up at her with a mixture of curiosity and affection.

"Where are you going?" he asks, his voice soft with concern.

Mercedes smiles down at him, a warmth radiating from her as she gazes into his eyes.

"Just heading to bed," she replies, her voice gentle. "It's getting late."

Sam nods in understanding, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips.

"Good night, Sam," she says with a smile, her voice filled with warmth and affection.

"Good night, Mercedes," he replies, returning her smile with one of his own.

There's a sense of contentment in the air as they bid each other good night, their hearts filled with the promise of tomorrow and the adventures it may bring.

As Mercedes turns to leave, Sam watches her go, a sense of gratitude swelling in his chest. He knows that he's found something special with her, something worth holding onto.

And as he settles back into the couch, a smile playing at his lips, he knows that he'll fall asleep tonight with thoughts of Mercedes dancing through his mind, filling his dreams with warmth and happiness.

[INT. SAM AND BLAINE'S APARTMENT - MORNING]

(The morning light filters through the windows, casting a warm glow over the cozy apartment.)

(Sam and Blaine sit at the kitchen table, sipping their morning coffee as they discuss their plans for the day.)

Blaine: (curiously) So, any big plans for today, Sam?

Sam: (nodding) Yeah, actually. I have a meeting with my agent later about some upcoming model shoots.

Blaine: (impressed) That sounds exciting. You've been killing it lately.

Sam: (grinning) Thanks, Blaine. I'm really excited about some of the opportunities that are coming up.

(Just then, they hear footsteps coming down the stairs, and Mercedes appears in the doorway, looking radiant in the morning light.)

Mercedes: (smiling) Good morning, guys.

Blaine and Sam both look up, their faces breaking into smiles at the sight of her.

Blaine: (cheerfully) Morning, Mercedes.

Sam: (trying to sound casual) Hey, morning.

Mercedes gives Sam a soft smile, her eyes twinkling with warmth and affection.

(There's a subtle understanding between them, a silent acknowledgment of the conversation they had the previous night.)

Blaine: (breaking the moment) So, any plans for you today, Mercedes?

Mercedes: (nodding) Just some errands to run, nothing too exciting.

(As they chat, the warmth of their friendship fills the room, wrapping around them like a comforting blanket.)

(And as they enjoy their morning together, surrounded by laughter and camaraderie, they know that no matter what the day may bring, they'll face it together, as friends who have each other's backs.)

Blaine glances at his watch, a hint of urgency in his expression.

Blaine: (checking his watch) Hey, Sam, we need to leave soon if we want to make it on time.

Sam nods in agreement, pushing his half-finished bowl of cereal aside and standing up from the table.

Sam: (nodding) Yeah, you're right. I'll grab my stuff.

Blaine places his bowl in the dishwasher before heading off to clean his teeth. Sam watches him go with a fond smile before turning his attention back to Mercedes.

Mercedes meets his gaze, her soft smile reflecting the warmth in her eyes.

Mercedes: (gentle) Have a good day, Sam.

Sam: (softly) You too, Mercedes.

There's a moment of quiet understanding between them, a silent exchange of affection and support.

As Sam gathers his things and prepares to leave, he carries with him the memory of Mercedes's smile, a reminder of the connection they share and the promise of what the future may hold.

With one last glance in her direction, Sam follows Blaine out the door, ready to face whatever the day may bring.

Before leaving, Sam turns to Mercedes, a soft smile playing on his lips.

Sam: (gently) I'll see you tonight at Rachel's, okay?

Mercedes reaches out, her hand gently stroking his arm in a silent gesture of reassurance.

Mercedes: (warmly) Sounds good, Sam. I'll see you then.

Mercedes notices that she is touching Sam and feels awkward. "Sorry." She pulls her hand away.

Sam smiles. "It's ok."

Sam's smile widens at her words, his heart feeling lighter knowing that they'll see each other again later.

With a final nod, Sam joins Blaine, and together they head out the door, leaving Mercedes with a sense of warmth and anticipation for the evening ahead.

As they disappear down the hallway, Mercedes watches them go, a smile lingering on her lips as she looks forward to the gathering at Rachel's later that night.

And as she goes about her day, there's a sense of excitement in the air, knowing that she'll soon be reunited with her friends and the ones she cares about most.

—-

(Sam shifts uncomfortably in his seat, feeling the weight of Artie and Blaine's stares on him. His neck feels hot with embarrassment, but he tries to brush off the awkwardness by focusing on his food.)

(Speaking up, he tries to change the subject, hoping to shift the attention away from their covert footsies.)

Sam: (addressing Kurt and Rachel) So, what Sondheim songs are you guys thinking of choosing for the performance?

(His voice is casual, but there's an underlying tension beneath the surface as he tries to break the ice.)

(Mercedes shoots him a grateful smile, appreciating his attempt to lighten the mood.)

(As they discuss their song choices, Sam tries to relax, letting the conversation carry him away from the awkward moment.)

(But despite his efforts, he can't shake the feeling of scrutiny from Artie and Blaine, their silent presence a reminder of the delicate balance they're trying to maintain.)

As Rachel enthusiastically discusses potential Sondheim songs, Sam tries to sneak a quick glance at Mercedes, his heart racing with anticipation. He catches her eye for just a moment, and a small smile tugs at the corners of her lips, a silent reassurance that they're in this together.

Feeling a surge of warmth spread through him, Sam turns his attention back to the conversation, nodding along as Rachel outlines their options. He can't help but feel grateful for the distraction, grateful for the chance to focus on something other than the tension between him, Mercedes, Artie, and Blaine.

As the discussion continues, Sam finds himself getting lost in the excitement of choosing the perfect song. He offers his input when necessary, his mind racing with possibilities and ideas.

But even as he participates in the conversation, his thoughts keep drifting back to Mercedes, to the subtle touches and stolen glances they share. He can't help but wonder what the future holds for them, what adventures they'll embark on together.

And as the evening wears on, surrounded by friends and laughter, Sam knows that no matter what challenges may come their way, as long as he has Mercedes by his side, he'll be able to face anything.

As Rachel delves into the discussion about Sondheim songs, Mercedes can't help but notice the subtle tension lingering in the air. She feels Sam's quick glance in her direction, and a warmth spreads through her at the silent connection they share.

Mercedes smiles softly, her heart fluttering with a mixture of excitement and nervousness. She knows that their playful footsies under the table haven't gone unnoticed, especially by Artie and Blaine. But she also feels a sense of reassurance knowing that Sam is there beside her, navigating the situation with as much grace as he can muster.

As Rachel talks animatedly about potential song choices, Mercedes finds herself getting swept up in the excitement. She offers her own suggestions and opinions, her mind buzzing with creative ideas.

But amidst the chatter and laughter, Mercedes can't help but steal glances at Sam whenever she can. There's something about the way he looks at her, a warmth in his eyes that makes her heart skip a beat. She knows that they have something special, something worth holding onto.

And as the evening progresses, Mercedes feels a sense of gratitude for the friends surrounding her, for the laughter and camaraderie that fills the air. She knows that no matter what challenges may lie ahead, as long as she has Sam by her side, she'll be able to face anything that comes their way.

[INT. LIVING ROOM - NIGHT]

As the evening winds down, Mercedes announces their departure, her voice warm and cheerful.

Mercedes: "Alright, guys, we're heading off."

With a brief nod to Blaine and the others, Sam and Mercedes bid their goodbyes and make their way to the door. They exit the apartment without any overt displays of affection, simply exchanging polite smiles with their friends before stepping out into the night.

[INT. SUBWAY - EVENING]

(The subway car is dimly lit, the soft hum of the train filling the air as it glides smoothly along the tracks. Mercedes, Sam, and Blaine sit together, their faces illuminated by the faint glow of the overhead lights. Despite the late hour, the atmosphere is tinged with a subtle tension, the events of the evening still fresh in their minds.)

Mercedes sits with her hands clasped tightly in her lap, her gaze fixed on the floor as she struggles to shake off the lingering awkwardness that hangs between her and Sam. She can't help but replay the moment they shared earlier—footsies under the table, a fleeting touch that sent a surge of warmth coursing through her veins.

Sam sits beside Mercedes, his eyes fixed on the passing scenery outside the window. He can feel the tension radiating from Mercedes, and it only serves to amplify his own feelings of unease. He tries to shake off the doubts that plague his mind, but they linger like a shadow, casting a pall over the evening.

Blaine sits across from them, his eyes darting between his two friends as he senses the tension in the air. He tries to lighten the mood with small talk.

Blaine: So, uh, how about that lasagna, huh? Rachel really outdid herself tonight.

Mercedes: (nodding) Yeah, it was delicious.

Sam: Definitely. I think I had about three helpings.

(They share a small chuckle, but the tension remains palpable.)

(The subway car rumbles on, the sound of the train filling the air as they make their way home. And as they sit in silence, each lost in their own thoughts, they can't help but wonder what the future holds for their friendship—and for the complicated feelings that simmer just beneath the surface.)

As they stroll through the vibrant city streets, a different kind of tension fills the air—a subtle, electric energy that crackles between Mercedes and Sam, leaving them both feeling exhilarated yet reserved. The bustling nightlife provides a colorful backdrop to their quiet conversation, the sounds of laughter and music blending with the rhythm of their footsteps.

Mercedes steals a sideways glance at Sam, her heart fluttering with a mix of excitement and longing. She finds herself yearning to be closer to him, to feel the warmth of his presence beside her, but Blaine's presence in the middle creates a barrier she's hesitant to breach.

Mercedes: "So, did you enjoy tonight?"

Sam: (smiling) "Yeah, it was great. Always good to hang out with everyone."

Mercedes nods, a small smile playing at the corners of her lips as she takes in the sights and sounds of the city around them.

Mercedes: "Definitely. And the lasagna was amazing."

Sam chuckles in agreement, but Mercedes can't shake the nagging feeling that something is missing—that despite the excitement of the evening, there's a palpable distance between her and Sam, one that Blaine seems to unwittingly accentuate.

Blaine chimes in with a joke, trying to lighten the mood.

Blaine: "Well, aren't we a chatty bunch tonight?"

Mercedes manages a small smile, grateful for the distraction, but she can't shake the feeling of longing that tugs at her heartstrings.

Mercedes: "Sorry, Blaine. Just lost in thought, I guess."

Sam nods in agreement, the tension between them momentarily forgotten as they share a moment of camaraderie with Blaine.

Sam: "Yeah, me too."

As they continue their walk, Mercedes finds herself caught in a whirlwind of conflicting emotions—excitement, longing, and a hint of sadness as she navigates the delicate balance between friendship and something more.

And as they navigate the city streets, their hearts brimming with anticipation for the future, Mercedes can't help but wonder what lies ahead—for her, for Sam, and for the unspoken feelings that bind them together in this moment of quiet intensity.

[FADE OUT.]

[INT. LIVING ROOM - NIGHT]

As Sam and Mercedes leave, Rachel, Artie, Blaine, and Kurt exchange glances, a silent communication passing between them.

Artie: (curiously) So, are they, like, a thing now?

Rachel: (thoughtfully) Maybe.

Blaine: (nodding) They do seem pretty close lately.

Kurt: (smiling) Well, whatever they are, they seem happy together.

(There's a moment of contemplative silence as they all consider the dynamics of Sam and Mercedes's relationship.)

Rachel: (optimistically) Maybe they're just taking things slow, seeing where it goes.

Artie: (nodding) Yeah, that makes sense. I just hope they figure things out soon.

(With a shared understanding, they settle back into their seats, the conversation shifting to other topics.)

(But in the back of their minds, the question of Sam and Mercedes lingers, a topic of quiet speculation and curiosity.)

(Only time will tell what the future holds for the two of them, but for now, their friends can't help but hope for the best.)

As they arrive home, the weight of unspoken words hangs heavy in the air, casting a shadow over the otherwise cheerful atmosphere. Mercedes and Sam exchange a hesitant glance, their desire to chat with each other palpable, but the presence of Blaine acting as an insurmountable barrier.

Blaine bustles around the apartment, his cheerful demeanor masking the tension that simmers just beneath the surface. He sets about preparing a pot of tea, the comforting aroma filling the air as he moves about the kitchen with practiced ease.

Mercedes hovers near the entrance, her gaze flickering between Sam and Blaine as she struggles to find a way to break the awkward silence that hangs between them. She longs to continue the conversation they started on the subway, to delve deeper into the thoughts and feelings that swirl in her mind, but the presence of Blaine leaves her feeling trapped, unable to express herself freely.

Sam leans against the kitchen counter, his hands fidgeting nervously as he searches for the right words to say. He wants nothing more than to pull Mercedes aside, to have a quiet moment alone where they can talk without fear of interruption, but the sight of Blaine bustling about the kitchen reminds him that such a moment is not to be.

Blaine glances up from his task, sensing the tension in the air. He offers them a warm smile, oblivious to the inner turmoil that churns beneath the surface.

Blaine: "Hey, why don't you guys come join me in the kitchen? The tea will be ready soon."

Mercedes and Sam exchange a hesitant look, their desire to chat with each other warring with their reluctance to intrude on Blaine's space. They exchange a silent agreement and follow Blaine into the kitchen, their footsteps heavy with unspoken words.

As they gather around the kitchen table, Blaine pours them each a cup of tea, the fragrant steam rising in delicate wisps. He tries to engage them in conversation, sharing anecdotes and stories from his day, but the tension lingers, casting a shadow over their interactions.

Mercedes and Sam exchange polite smiles and nods, their minds elsewhere as they struggle to find a way to bridge the gap that separates them. They steal furtive glances at each other when they think Blaine isn't looking, their longing for a moment alone growing with each passing second.

And as they sit in the cozy kitchen, surrounded by the warmth of friendship and the comforting aroma of tea, Mercedes and Sam can't help but feel a sense of frustration bubbling beneath the surface. They long for a moment alone, a chance to speak freely and openly without the constraints of Blaine's presence, but for now, they're forced to bide their time and wait for the opportunity they so desperately crave.

As they gather around the kitchen table, Blaine pours them each a cup of tea, the fragrant steam rising in delicate wisps. He tries to engage them in conversation, but the tension in the air stifles any attempt at meaningful dialogue.

Blaine: "So, how was everyone's day?"

Mercedes and Sam exchange a glance, their desire to talk to each other palpable but thwarted by Blaine's presence.

Mercedes: "It was fine, thanks. Just the usual."

Sam nods in agreement, his eyes flickering with disappointment as he realizes that the conversation he longs to have with Mercedes won't happen tonight.

Sam: "Yeah, pretty uneventful. I think I'm just gonna head to bed early. Long day tomorrow."

Blaine offers a sympathetic smile, oblivious to the unspoken tension between his friends.

Blaine: "That sounds like a good idea. Get some rest, Sam. We can catch up tomorrow."

With a forced smile, Sam excuses himself from the table and retreats to his room, leaving Mercedes and Blaine alone in the kitchen.

Mercedes watches him go, a pang of disappointment tugging at her heart as she realizes that their chance to talk has slipped away once again.

Mercedes: "I guess I should probably head to bed too. Big day tomorrow."

Blaine nods in agreement, but Mercedes can see the concern in his eyes as he watches her.

Blaine: "Yeah, you should get some rest too. We can talk more tomorrow if you want."

Mercedes forces a smile, grateful for Blaine's concern but longing for the opportunity to talk to Sam alone.

Mercedes: "Thanks, Blaine. I'll see you in the morning."

With a heavy heart, Mercedes bids Blaine goodnight and heads to her room, the weight of unspoken words weighing heavily on her mind as she prepares for bed.

[FADE OUT.]

[FADE OUT.]

.

The next morning, the apartment is quiet as Mercedes enters the living room, her footsteps barely making a sound on the hardwood floor. She finds Sam sitting on the couch, remote in hand, flipping through the channels on the television.

Mercedes: "Hey, Sam."

Sam looks up from the TV, a small smile spreading across his face as he sees Mercedes.

Sam: "Hey, good morning. Sleep well?"

Mercedes nods, her mind racing with thoughts of the conversation she wants to have with Sam.

Mercedes: "Yeah, not too bad. Hey, do you think we could... talk about something?"

Sam sets the remote aside, his expression serious as he turns his attention to Mercedes.

Sam: "Sure, of course. What's on your mind?"

Mercedes hesitates for a moment, gathering her thoughts before speaking.

Mercedes: "I was thinking... maybe we could talk about us."

Sam's eyebrows shoot up in surprise, but he nods in agreement.

Sam: "Yeah, I think that's a good idea. How about we go for a walk? Near the Brooklyn Bridge?"

Mercedes smiles at the suggestion, a hint of excitement in her eyes.

Mercedes: "I'd like that. Although, I have to admit, I've never been there before."

Sam chuckles softly, teasing Mercedes in his usual playful manner.

Sam: "What? You've never been to the Brooklyn Bridge? You're missing out, Mercedes. It's like a rite of passage for New Yorkers."

Mercedes rolls her eyes playfully, swatting Sam's arm in mock annoyance.

Mercedes: "Alright, alright, rub it in why don't you? I haven't been here as long as you have, you know.

Sam chuckles, realizing his assumption, and playfully nudges her shoulder.

Sam: (grinning) Fair enough.

"But hey, now I have the perfect tour guide."

Sam grins, his heart fluttering with anticipation as he looks forward to the chance to spend some time alone with Mercedes, away from the distractions of their everyday lives.

Sam: "Ok. We'll make a day of it. How's that sound?"

Mercedes smiles, her heart lighter as she looks forward to their upcoming adventure together.

Mercedes: "Sounds perfect."

And with that, they set off on their walk, their hearts brimming with excitement and the promise of what lies ahead.

[FADE OUT.]

—-

[EXT. OUTSIDE THE RECORDING STUDIO - DAY]

(Sam waits patiently outside the recording studio, his heart still buzzing from Mercedes's powerful performance.)

(Suddenly, the door swings open, and Mercedes steps out into the sunlight, a radiant smile lighting up her face.)

Sam: (smiling) Mercedes, you were incredible in there.

(Mercedes's smile widens at his words, but before Sam can say anything else, she steps closer to him, a determined look in her eyes.)

Mercedes: (interrupting) Sam...

(Without another word, she leans in and presses her lips to his, a surge of electricity passing between them.)

(Sam's eyes widen in surprise, but he quickly melts into the kiss, wrapping his arms around Mercedes and pulling her closer.)

(The world seems to fade away as they lose themselves in the moment, the warmth of the sun and the soft breeze the only things that exist.)

(When they finally pull apart, their breaths coming in short, exhilarated gasps, Mercedes looks up at Sam, her eyes shining with emotion.)

Mercedes: (softly) I've wanted to do that for so long.

(Sam's heart skips a beat at her words, a smile spreading across his face.)

Sam: (tenderly) Mercedes, I've missed you. And... I want to make things right.

(Mercedes's heart swells with happiness, tears of joy pricking at the corners of her eyes.)

Mercedes: (emotionally) Sam, I want that too. I want us to try again.

(They share a tender smile, knowing that this time, they're both ready to give their relationship the chance it deserves.)

(Sam reaches out, taking Mercedes's hand in his, their fingers intertwining as they step forward into the future, united in their love and determination.)

[FADE OUT.]

[EXT. OUTSIDE THE RECORDING STUDIO - DAY]

(Mercedes and Sam stand together, a comfortable silence settling between them.)

Mercedes: (playfully) So, those coins you threw into the East River... they must've done the trick.

(Sam's eyes light up with recognition, a smirk playing at the corner of his lips.)

Sam: (knowingly) Ah, you mean the ones I tossed in when we were in New York? Yeah, maybe they did.

(Mercedes nods, a mischievous twinkle in her eye.)

Mercedes: (smirking) Well, I guess they worked their magic after all.

(Sam chuckles, shaking his head in amusement.)

Sam: (grinning) Who knew a handful of coins could make such a difference?

Mercedes: (smiling) I guess we'll never know. But hey, I'm not complaining.

(They share a smile, the unspoken understanding between them speaking volumes.)

(Sam reaches out, gently squeezing Mercedes's hand in his.)

Sam: (sincerely) With or without those coins, Mercedes, I'm just glad we found our way back to each other.

(Mercedes's heart swells with warmth, grateful for the second chance they've been given.)

Mercedes: (softly) Me too, Sam. Me too.

(As they stand there, hand in hand, they know that their bond is stronger than any superstition or wishful thinking.)

(Together, they step forward into the future, ready to face whatever comes their way, secure in the knowledge that they have each other.)

[EXT. NEW YORK CITY STREETS - DAY]

(Mercedes and Sam walk side by side, the bustling energy of the city surrounding them.)

(Mercedes glances up at Sam, a solemn expression on her face.)

Mercedes: (reflectively) You know, Sam, with everything that's happened... it just reminds me how short life really is.

(Sam nods, his own thoughts drifting to their friends Finn and Kurt.)

Sam: Yeah, it's been tough. Losing Finn, and now Kurt... it's hard to make sense of it all.

(Mercedes reaches out, taking Sam's hand in hers, a comforting gesture amidst the turmoil.)

Mercedes: (softly) I know. But it also reminds me how important it is to cherish the moments we have, to hold onto the people we love.

(Sam squeezes Mercedes's hand, a silent acknowledgment of their shared grief and determination.)

Sam: You're right, Mercedes. Life is too short to waste on regrets.

(They continue walking, the weight of their losses mingling with the promise of a future together.)

(Mercedes looks up at Sam, a small smile playing at the corners of her lips.)

Mercedes: (optimistically) So let's make the most of every moment, Sam. Starting now.

(Sam returns her smile, his heart swelling with love and gratitude.)

Sam: (tenderly) I wouldn't want it any other way, Mercedes.

(As they walk towards the subway, hand in hand, they know that no matter what challenges lie ahead, they'll face them together, with courage and resilience.)

(And as they step onto the train, bound for whatever adventures await them, they do so with a renewed sense of purpose and determination.)

[INT. SUBWAY TRAIN - DAY]

(Mercedes and Sam step onto the crowded subway train, the noise of the city fading into the background as the doors slide shut behind them.)

(The train lurches into motion, the rhythmic clatter of wheels against tracks filling the air.)

(They find a spot to stand, pressed close together in the midst of the bustling crowd.)

(At first, neither of them says anything, content to simply be together in the midst of the chaos.)

(Mercedes steals glances at Sam, her heart swelling with affection as she watches him take in the sights and sounds of the city.)

(Sam meets her gaze, a soft smile playing at the corners of his lips.)

(She feels a surge of warmth spread through her as she reaches out, her fingers intertwining with his.)

(Their hands fit together perfectly, a silent reminder of the bond that connects them.)

(Sam turns to look at her, his eyes filled with tenderness and love.)

(For a moment, they lose themselves in each other's gaze, the noise of the subway fading into the background.)

(And in that moment, surrounded by the hustle and bustle of the city, they find a sense of peace and contentment in each other's presence.)

(As the train rattles on towards their destination, Mercedes and Sam hold onto each other, secure in the knowledge that as long as they have each other, they can weather any storm.)

(And as they stand there, hand in hand, they know that no matter what challenges lie ahead, they'll face them together, stronger than ever before.)

[FADE OUT.]

[INT. SUBWAY TRAIN - DAY]

(Mercedes and Sam step onto the subway train, the familiar clatter of the tracks beneath them signaling the beginning of their journey.)

(The train is packed with people, the air thick with chatter and the rumble of the city.)

(They find a quiet corner to stand in, their shoulders brushing against each other as they sway with the movement of the train.)

(For a few moments, they stand in comfortable silence, taking in the sights and sounds of the city rushing past outside.)

(Mercedes glances at Sam, her heart full as she thinks about the conversation they had just a few days ago.)

(She knows that she wants to be with him, now more than ever.)

(Sam catches her gaze, his eyes softening with affection as he reaches out to take her hand.)

(Their fingers intertwine, a silent reassurance of their connection.)

(Mercedes smiles at him, her heart skipping a beat at the warmth in his eyes.)

(Sam returns her smile, his thumb gently tracing circles on the back of her hand.)

(Despite the noise and chaos of the train, they feel as though they're in their own little world.)

(As the train rumbles on, carrying them closer to their destination, Mercedes and Sam hold onto each other, cherishing these precious moments together.)

(And as they stand there, hand in hand, they know that no matter what the future holds, they'll face it together, with love and unwavering support.

As the warmth of their kiss lingers in the air, Sam and Mercedes stand there, their breaths mingling in the space between them. Sam's heart pounds in his chest as he looks into Mercedes' eyes, searching for some indication of what comes next.

Sam: *softly* "Mercedes..."

Mercedes meets his gaze, her own heart racing with a mix of excitement and nervousness. She reaches up to gently cup his cheek, her touch sending shivers down Sam's spine.

Mercedes: *tenderly* "Yes, Sam."

Sam's eyes widen in surprise at her response, a wave of relief flooding through him at her affirmation.

Sam: *searching* "So... does that mean... we're together now?"

Mercedes smiles, her heart swelling with affection for the man standing before her. Without a word, she leans in and kisses him again, pouring all of her feelings into the simple act of their lips meeting.

When they finally pull apart, their breaths coming in soft, ragged gasps, Mercedes looks into Sam's eyes with a sense of certainty.

Mercedes: *softly* "Yes, Sam. We're together."

Sam's face breaks into a wide grin at her words, a surge of happiness coursing through him at the knowledge that they're finally on the same page.

Sam: *joyfully* "I'm so glad to hear that, Mercedes."

Mercedes reaches out to take his hand in hers, their fingers intertwining in a silent promise of love and commitment.

Mercedes: *smiling* "Me too, Sam. Me too."

And in that moment, as they stand there together, hand in hand, their hearts overflowing with love and happiness, they know that they're embarking on a journey that will change their lives forever.

As they begin their walk towards the subway, the bustling city streets envelop them in a cacophony of sound and movement. Sam feels a surge of nervous energy coursing through him, his heart pounding in his chest as he steals a glance at Mercedes. With a silent resolve, he reaches out his hand, fingers trembling slightly as they hover in the air.

As Sam and Mercedes begin their walk towards the subway, the city streets buzz with life around them, but in Sam's mind, there's a quiet calm as he navigates the swirling thoughts swirling in his head. He steals a glance at Mercedes, his heart skipping a beat at the sight of her, the soft glow of the streetlights illuminating her features in a gentle halo.

Sam's mind races with a whirlwind of emotions as he contemplates the idea of reaching out to hold Mercedes' hand. He feels a surge of nervousness fluttering in his stomach, a fear of overstepping boundaries and ruining the delicate balance between them. But beneath the surface, there's also a sense of longing, a deep-seated desire to bridge the gap between them and forge a stronger connection.

As they walk, Sam steals furtive glances at Mercedes, studying the way her hair catches the light, the way her eyes sparkle with laughter. He finds himself drawn to her, captivated by her presence in a way that he can't quite explain. And with each step they take, the desire to reach out and take her hand grows stronger, until it feels like an ache deep in his chest.

But even as he grapples with his own emotions, Sam can't shake the feeling of uncertainty that gnaws at him. He worries about how Mercedes will react, whether she'll welcome the gesture or pull away in discomfort. He wants to be respectful of her boundaries, to proceed with caution and care.

And yet, despite his fears, there's a part of Sam that longs to take the risk, to reach out and bridge the divide between them. He knows that it's a small gesture, but to him, it feels like a symbol of something greater—a symbol of trust, of connection, of the possibility of something more.

Lost in his thoughts, Sam comes to a stop at the crosswalk, the sound of traffic fading into the background as he turns to face Mercedes. He takes a deep breath, steeling himself for what comes next, his heart pounding in his chest as he reaches out his hand, fingers trembling slightly as they hover in the air.

And in that moment, as he waits for Mercedes' response, Sam knows that whatever happens, he's taking a step towards something meaningful, something real. And as Mercedes meets his gaze with a soft smile, Sam feels a sense of hope wash over him, a belief that maybe, just maybe, they're both ready to take the leap together.

As Sam stands there, his hand poised in mid-air, he feels a rush of adrenaline coursing through him, his heart pounding in his chest as he waits for Mercedes' reaction. There's a knot of nervousness twisting in his stomach, but beneath it all, there's also a flicker of excitement, a sense of anticipation at the possibility of what's to come.

Mercedes meets his gaze, her eyes searching his with a mixture of curiosity and warmth. Sam finds himself getting lost in the depths of her gaze, the world around them fading into the background as he focuses solely on her.

For a moment, they stand there in silence, the air crackling with tension as Sam waits for Mercedes' response. And then, with a soft smile, Mercedes reaches out her hand, her fingers brushing against his in a gentle caress.

Sam feels a surge of relief flood through him at her gesture, a sense of reassurance washing over him as their hands finally intertwine. It's a simple gesture, but to Sam, it feels like so much more—a silent affirmation of the bond that exists between them, a promise of support and companionship as they navigate the uncertain waters of their relationship.

As they continue their walk towards the subway, Sam feels a sense of lightness wash over him, a weight lifted off his shoulders at the knowledge that Mercedes is by his side. He steals a glance at her, a smile playing on his lips as he squeezes her hand gently, his heart filled with a quiet sense of contentment.

And as they descend into the depths of the subway, their hands still joined, Sam knows that whatever challenges may lie ahead, they'll face them together, hand in hand, hearts united in a journey of love and discovery.

[FADE OUT.]

Mercedes catches his movement out of the corner of her eye, and as she turns to look at him, Sam feels a jolt of anticipation shoot through him. With a steadying breath, he closes the remaining distance between them, his fingers brushing against Mercedes' palm in a tentative caress.

Time seems to slow as Sam's hand inches closer, the air crackling with tension as their fingertips finally make contact. He feels a rush of warmth spread through him at the touch, a sense of rightness settling over him as their hands intertwine in a gentle embrace.

Mercedes looks down at their joined hands, a soft smile playing on her lips as she laces her fingers with Sam's. There's a sense of comfort in the simple act of holding hands, a silent reassurance that they're in this together, navigating the uncertain terrain of their budding relationship side by side.

With each step they take, Sam feels a sense of closeness growing between them, until they're walking in perfect harmony, their hands swinging gently between them as they move forward into the unknown.

And as they continue on their journey, the warmth of their intertwined hands serves as a constant reminder of the bond that exists between them, a promise of support and companionship as they navigate the twists and turns of life together.

As Sam and Mercedes trudge up the stairs to Rachel's apartment, the weight of their impending announcement hangs heavy in the air. Mercedes shoots Sam a sideways glance, her expression a mix of nervousness and amusement.

Mercedes: "So, are we really going to tell them?"

Sam grins, a mischievous glint in his eye as he considers her question.

Sam: "Oh, definitely. It'll be like dropping a bombshell on the McKinley High gossip mill all over again."

Mercedes laughs, the tension in her shoulders easing at Sam's playful attitude.

Mercedes: "I can already picture their faces when we spill the beans. It's going to be priceless."

Sam nods enthusiastically, a grin spreading across his face as he imagines the reactions of their friends.

Sam: "I can't wait to see the looks on their faces. This is going to be epic."

With their decision made and their spirits lifted, they continue their climb to Rachel's apartment, their laughter echoing in the stairwell as they prepare to drop the biggest bombshell of the evening.