Chapter 7

It's Not Unusual

A new school year was about to begin. Rachel, Kurt, Mercedes, Finn, Quinn, Puck, Brittany, Santana and Mike were about to start their senior year. Artie and Tina were starting their junior year. Claire was about to begin her sophomore year. Seeing as how she got the feel of the New Directions the previous year, she was hoping she'd get the hang of being in control, though she still had a lot to learn.

Jacob Ben Israel was at it again. "Finn Hudson," he started. "What do you want to be when you grow up?"

Finn asked, "Me? Yeah, I have plans."

Mike said, "My mom hasn't decided for me to go to Harvard or Stanford."

Tina said, "Senior, junior, junior."

Jacob said to Artie, "I thought you were a senior."

Artie responded, "Optical illusion. The chair adds one year."

Jacob asked, "Brittany, what are your plans for the future?"

Brittany said, "Are you working on a time machine, too?"

Will and Emma were officially together. It really amazes how he has a Superman lunchbox and she has a Wonder Woman lunchbox, but nobody had a Batman lunchbox.

In the choir room, Will showed them their trophies. "Third place at Regionals, third place at Nationals. This is what they look like."

Santana said, "At least Sue wasn't judging this time."

Puck asked, "Are you planning on bumming us out all year?"

Will said, "No. I'm planning on pushing you harder than before. I'm not gonna let anyone or anything get in the way."

Mercedes said, "Well, you know I hate being ridiculed."

Kurt said, "Mercedes has a point. Claire and Henry's awesome High School Musical duet already has over 20,000 views on YouTube."

Will said, "We need to recruit new members. Since Henry graduated, we're a man and a woman down."

Santana said, "Yeah, but that's only because Puckerman failed to persuade Lauren Zizes to stay."

In a flashback, Lauren told Puck, "What we had was hot, but my rep is in free fall. Don't be sad. We'll always have Subway."

Tina asked, "Where's Quinn?"

Artie said, "MIA. No one's heard from her."

Merceds said, "No one else is gonna join, Mr. Shue."

"They might," Will said. "All they need is a little inspiration."

Three purple pianos came in.

Kurt smiled, "Okay, if there are purple pianos involved in this, I'm on board."

"Al Motta donated them, I fixed them up and painted them purple." Brittany ran to them with Tina. Kurt was on one of them. "This is your last year for some of you. Make it special."

Anne Marie and Ian returned. Even though they missed the New York trip—and after what happened, it's almost a good thing they did, but still sad that they couldn't make it—they were back and ready to help make more music again.

Anne Marie said, "Who would've thought that after three months away that we would be back in these halls again?"

Ian said, "I know. It feels like a lifetime since we roamed down these halls. This is gonna be a pretty good year."

Fabulous from High School Musical 2 started. Summer might've been over, but the fun has just gotten started.

Anne Marie said, "Absolutely." And then she saw Sue and said, "Not!"

Sue said, "You know, I was really humbled when the glee club made my sister's funeral so touching."

In the meantime, Kurt was meeting his boyfriend Blaine at the Lima Bean.

"You're awfully quiet," Blaine spoke.

Kurt said, "No, I'm being passive-aggressive. You promised by the first day of school you'd make a suggestion. And yet, there you sit, handsome as ever in your Warblers jacket."

"I know, but I just can't bail on the Warblers. Those guys are my friends."

Kurt nodded, "All right, one final sales pitch and then we'll talk about making over Nancy Grace. If you stay at Dalton, you and I are competitors."

"Let me get this straight. I have to transfer because you're just afraid that I'm gonna beat you at Sectionals."

"No," Kurt answered, "I'm afraid I'm going to beat you."

"Ooh."

"And I know what that does to you. Look, I honestly just want to see you more. I want my senior year to be magic and the only way that's gonna happen is if I get to spend every minute of every day with you."

Blaine smiled and held his hand.

In the cafeteria, Rachel said, "We have to do the number, okay?"

Artie said, "We have to survive lunch. It's not fair that Mr. Shue put a piano in here."

Finn said, "Wait, there's a purple piano here?"

"Wow, how did any of us miss that?" Merceds said sarcastically.

Kurt said, "I agree. It's like wearing a red dress to a bullfight."

Rachel said, "The point of the assignment was to find people who could join. The more people we sing in front of, the more chance someone will join."

Finn said, "Rachel's right."

Rachel smiled, "Thank you."

Claire said, "Hey. Room for one more?"

Rachel said, "Claire!" She hugged her.

The others said, "Hey!" Rachel laughed. Kurt hugged Claire, then Mercedes hugged her next. Claire hugged Finn.

They were performing "Opportunity" from the Broadway musical 13.

In the choir room, Artie rolled in with spaghetti on his head. "I thought Slushies were bad. Spaghetti sauce is so much worse."

Brittany said, "I think I have pepperoni in my bra."

Mercedes said, "Not one person during our hot lunch jam is eager to try out, Mr. Shue."

A girl walked in and said, "It's true."

Rachel said, "I'm sorry. And you are?"

"I'm Sugar Motta. My dad paid for all your purple pianos."

Will said, "How can we help you, Sugar?"

"Here's the deal. I want to be a great, big star, and after seeing you guys performing in the cafeteria, I wanted some of that." She started to sing off-key.

Artie said, "Her ears should park my handicapped spot."

Rachel said, "Okay, I think I speak for all of us when I say never gonna happen."

Mercedes nodded in agreement.

Beiste made a return appearance in the teacher's lounge.

Will said, "I can't just look a kid in the eye and say they're not good enough for glee club."

Beiste asked, "Was she that bad?"

"Heh, just awful."

"So make her water-girl, or the mascot or something. That's what I do in my hardest cases."

"Well, the arts are not like football."

"If you win Nationals this year, you could buy that glee club 10 more years."

In the auditorium, Rachel and Kurt got on stage to sing, "Ding-Dong, The Witch is Dead."

Kurt said, "Before there was Wicked, there was..."

Rachel gasped, "Don't even finish that sentence."

Blaine walked to Kurt down the McKinley hallway with a bowtie. Kurt sprayed on hairspray. He looked at him and said, "Well, aren't you a sight for these sore eyes. Wait, what are you doing here? Shouldn't you be in Warbler practice? You know, fine tuning touches on a Katy Perry showstopper?"

"Okay, for someone who loves clothes so much, I can't believe you haven't noticed I'm not wearing my Warbler outfit."

"Wait, wait…" Kurt giggled and hugged him. "Wait, you didn't do this for me, did you? Because as romantic as that is, it could lead to resentment, which could lead to anger, which could lead to horrible, nasty…"

"Hey, hey, hey. I came here for me because I can't stand to be away from the person I love."

Kurt beamed, "Well, then I guess we'll just have to find a way to ease you into New Directions now."

"I already have that figured out." Then outside, he did an incredible rendition of Tom Jones's "It's Not Unusual." After he was done, however, Quinn flicked a lit cigarette onto a piano and it lit on fire.

Claire said, "Anyone for marshmallows?" Mercedes and Artie glared at her.

Rachel and Kurt had their sights set on NYADA, the New York Academy of Dramatic Arts. They were intimidated, however, by the singing group, especially the lead singer, Harmony. They did a flawless mash-up of "Anything Goes" and "Anything You Can Do, I Can Do Better."

Rachel said in the car, "I can't believe that actually happened. I have never been so upstaged like that before in my entire life."

Kurt said, "Me neither, and that's a really high bar."

Rachel sobbed, "I mean, they were just so... How are we ever gonna get in now when they're that good?"

Kurt blew his nose. "We may be hot stuff at McKinley. But outside those walls, we aren't even stuff. Okay, I'm ending this pity party right now." He adjusted the rearview mirror. "What do you see?"

"Sad, puffy eyes."

"Rachel Berry. One of a kind. Your ambition does pushups while you sleep. You are not giving up on this. You're getting into that school."

"You're getting in, too, you know. I'm not the only fierce one."

Then they held each other's pinkies. "You realize we just did the gay high-five."

"Yeah, we sort of did," Rachel giggled.

Will introduced everyone to Blaine in the choir room, "Ladies and gentlemen, let's say hello to our newest member, Blaine Anderson."

Blaine smiled, "Thanks so much, everyone. I'm so thrilled to be here. It's gonna be a great year, I can feel it. We're all going to Nationals." Applause and cheers were met at that.

Will said, "Which brings me to the next order of business. Santana, you need to leave. It was you and the Cheerios who set fire to the piano."

"Technically, it was Quinn who did that," Santana explained. "I just poured the gasoline."

Brittany said, "Yeah. I was gonna help, but I don't know.

Will told Santana, "You're banned from glee. Don't come back until you can be as loyal to the club as the rest of the people in this room."

Claire asked, "Does that mean Puck, too?" Rachel smiled at her.

"You know what?" Santana stood up. "I could use a break." She walked out.

Mercedes said, "You know, good for you, Mr. Shue. It's about time we got some allegiance up in here." Rachel nodded. Allegiance, my front teeth.

Will announced, "I've said it before and I will say it again. If we want to win Nationals this year, we need to be united."

In the auditorium, they were all singing "You Can't Stop the Beat" from Hairspray.

"As you all know, Vocal Adrenaline came in second place at Nationals."

Finn said, "The only good thing that came out of that lost weekend." Rachel gently tapped him with her arm. "Besides us getting together." Rachel smiled.

Will went on, "Well, the booster club donates tens of thousands of dollars every year. So they fired Dustin Goolsby…"

Claire muttered, "Good riddance."

"…and have been having trouble finding a new coach. Seems that no one wants to take on that."

"Well, that means they're vulnerable," Tina stated.

Will said, "Yes. And if we work hard enough, we can beat them. My sole focus is here. It's not just me that's gonna have to focus harder this year. I've been too easy on you. So every day, after choir practice, I'm instituting a mandatory booty camp so we can work on our dancing. Now it's not for all of you."

Finn said, "Finn."

"How did you know? And Puckerman, Hummel…"

Kurt stated, "I must protest."

Mike told him, "You kinda have one move, Kurt. It's like this sashay. It's super distracting."

Will went on, "Jones," who in turn said, "What? Hell to the Nizzy no." Brittany chuckled softly. Will said, "Miss Tompkins and Mr. Rivers will be helping me running the camp." Rachel smiled at that. "And Mike Chang has offered to help, too."

Blaine offered, "Mr. Shue, would you mind if I dropped by for a little bit? I really need to catch up with you all."

Rachel offered, "Mr. Shue, I'm glad you're branching out, but who's gonna direct the musical?"

Will announced, "Ladies and gentlemen, your co-musical directors. Miss Pillsbury and Coach Beiste. I knew Miss Pillsbury could handle the job."

Beiste stated, "And I'm here to keep the football guys in line and I've also talked them into playing the jets."

Rachel said, "With all due respect, do you two even know anything about the theater or directing a musical?"

Beiste answered, "When I was in college, I was in a production of 'A Funny Thing Happened on My Way to the Forum.' I played the forum." Mike nodded and Tina looked confused. Will said, "The teachers at this school are already very overworked. Besides, I've decided to include a student director this year."

Claire stated, "Why don't you just give us more homework while you're at it? Some of us in here need help with fractions."

Mercedes glared at her. Brittany said, "I hate you."

Will went on, "I was hoping that Artie would take the job."

Artie blurted out, "Me? I've spent my life trying to avoid conflict."

Tina told him, "Come on, Artie, you've made short films. You can do it. Directing is your dream." Rachel and Emma nodded.

Artie declared, "I'm in." Will said, "All right." Applause. Puck smirked and the bell rang.

In the teacher's lounge, Shelby walked in and said, "You still make a mean cup of coffee?"

Will turned around. "Shelby." She chuckled. Will said, "You're back. What are you doing here?"

"It's the teachers' lounge, isn't it?" She hugged him. "It's where all the teachers hang out." She poured herself some coffee. "You ever hear of Al Motta?"

In a flashback, "Mr. Motta, just so I'm clear, in exchange for this generous donation, all I have to do is present a new show choir, which features your daughter."

Al patted Sugar's wrist. "For which I will pay all expenses. My daughter's a supernova, Figgy."

"You have a deal. Mrs. Denny Brown! Mr. Motta has just ended our paper shortage with this enormous check! Wipe away!"

Back to the present, Shelby said, "Apparently, I am the best show choir director money can buy. Don't worry, though, I'm not gonna poach any of your kids."

"I was actually kind of hoping you would help us win Nationals this year. It would mean the world to Rachel."

"I don't see why not."

"Miss Tompkins and Mr. Rivers are gonna help me run the booty camp."

"I don't think I'll be ready for the auditorium just yet."

"Are you sure? I hear Jack will be back here."

Shelby tried not to blush at the mention of Jack's name. "Jack Masterson?" Her heart felt like a jackhammer. "You know, I think I might…maybe swing by."

"Well, may the best glee club win."

Shelby shook his hand and said, "We will." She walked out. Still as competitive as ever.

In the choir room, Mercedes said, "Shane says I'm more of a park-and-bark."

Finn said, "Uh, what and what?"

"Park and bark."

Puck said, "I - am - in - hell."

Blaine said, "I'm still trying to decide between Maria and Something's Coming."

Kurt said, "Those are Tony songs. Are you auditioning for Tony?"

"Well, except I'm a junior."

Mike said, "Finn, you look like you're stepping on bees."

Will said, "Kurt, jazz hands."

"Fine."

Rachel was practicing in the auditorium. She noticed Shelby walking towards her and stopped.

Shelby said, "Your range is better. It was impressive before, but it's even better now."

Rachel was stunned. "Back so soon?"

"What song are you auditioning with?"

"I haven't decided yet. How come you never called me? When you were in New York."

"I've been busy. Also, I wanted to give you your space."

"Appreciated."

"Somewhere. You should do it. I've played Maria 18 times. 'Somewhere' is the perfect song for you."

"Well, I was considering it, but it's a very challenging song."

"Try it."

They started singing "Somewhere" together and Shelby held Rachel's hand. When they were finished, Artie, Emma and Beiste clapped. Rachel looked at Anne Marie, who smiled, pointed and winked at her. Rachel giggled. Shelby told her, "I missed you," to which Rachel replied with, "I missed you, too."

Rachel was looking in a mirror in her locker. When she closed her locker, she noticed a familiar face walking down the hallway. He said, "It's really good to know some things never change."

Rachel smiled, her heart pounding. "Oh, my God," and ran to hug him. Jack picked her up and spun her around. Rachel said, "Jack, you're back."

"Yeah." He set her down and she noticed his full beard.

"Boy, you've had some work done." She stroked it. "It-it looks good."

"I appreciate that."

Rachel cleared her throat. "Well, I'm glad you came back. I really missed you a lot this summer."

"Yeah, I can tell by all those e-mails you sent me."

"Yeah, well, I didn't want to write you too much. I figured I should give you your space."

"I appreciate that," he said again.

Rachel went on, "Also, I was afraid I was starting to annoy you."

Jack chuckled, "Rachel, you could never annoy me."

"Wow. You really have been gone a long time."

Jack laughed and Rachel giggled. He said, "I'm glad I'm here."

"Me too. Everyone else will be, too, especially Kurt. Oh, and just so you know, my mom loves white tulips." Jack raised his eyebrows at that.

Will said, "What's going on here?"

Sue said, "Rolling."

Quinn said, "Mr. Shue, I have a bone to pick with you. I had it all. I was captain of the Cheerios, I dated the quarterback. Then I joined glee club. I hope you're happy."

Sue said, "This is campaign dynamite."

Will said, "Miss Fabray, there's only one person that you care about, and that's yourself."

Quinn said, "You have no idea…"

Will slammed his hand on his desk and shouted, "I'm not finished!"

Becky said, surprised, "Whoa!"

Will said, "How long are you gonna play the victim card, Quinn? Since day one, you have done nothing but sabotage the same glee club that has been there for you. So now you're a train wreck. Well, congratulations."

Quinn walked out and Will sighed, "Would you turn that thing off?"

Sue said, "Becky, let's go."

Becky said, "That was really sexy."

Shelby was walking down the hallway and noticed Jack under his desk trying to tighten some loose bolts. She walked in and said, "Looks like you still have a loose screw."

Jack was a bit surprised to see her. "Shelby?" He stood up, trying not to blush.

"Jack? Hey. I wasn't expecting you back here so soon." She hugged him.

"I just got in. You would not believe how happy Rachel was."

"I believe it. And I can't blame her. I can see you've had some work done." She touched his beard, then cleared her throat. "You look great."

"You look great, too."

"So, that's it? You're not even gonna ask me how my summer was? I'm kidding." She chuckled. "But still, I stayed in New York. Thought I'd do it all. But even when I was in rehearsal, even performing, I couldn't stop thinking about her. So, when I got this job offer, I couldn't refuse. Since the day I gave up Rachel for adoption, I have been walking through life searching for her face everywhere I go. Imagining what she's doing, what she might be like. Last year, I decided I wanted to be a teacher here because I wanted to get to know her more, you know, actually be a part of her life."

"You actually listened."

"So, um, what have you been doing? How did that job of yours go?"

"Um, surprisingly well. It really helped my family a lot. I know that sounds kind of silly, but…"

"Not at all."

"Anyway, the reason I came back was because... I just thought it was about time for me to step up. Stop holding myself back from what I want."

Shelby nodded. "And what is it that you want?"

"To be remembered. Not as the guy people walk all over, but as the guy who did something great, you know, worthwhile."

"Yeah? Well, I got news for you, Jack. You already do that." They chuckled.

Shelby felt her face burning. "Jack…" The bell rang. "Ah, I'd better go. Maybe we can catch up later."

"I'd like that."

Shelby chuckled again and hugged him again. Jack hugged her back. "See you later." She walked out. Jack sighed and pursed his lips.

In the auditorium, Beiste put Artie down. "There you go, buddy."

"Thanks, Coach," Artie said. "She's like my own private Jim Henson."

Anne Marie was about to perform.

"Hello, I'm Annie Marie Tompkins and I will be performing I'm the Greatest Star from Funny Girl."

Beiste asked, "Isn't that a Streisand song?"

"Yes, and I know what you're thinking, but I got written permission from the woman herself. Not Streisand, Rachel Berry."

Artie said, "Whenever you're ready."

Anne Marie performed it perfectly. They were all enjoying themselves. They were all smiling. Will was thrilled. Rachel was beaming. Finn was smiling. Santana raised an eyebrow while smiling. Claire and Ian were happy. Shelby was the only one not smiling. She was instead glaring. When Anne was done, Artie, Emma and Beiste all clapped and cheered. Everyone else did, too. Rachel, Claire and Ian were clapping rapidly. Shelby clapped as well, but slowly and without enthusiasm. Beiste shouted, "Beautiful!"

Meanwhile, Kurt was on stage. "Hello, I'm Kurt Hummel and I will be auditioning for Tony, the male lead."

Emma said, "That's great, Kurt."

"I wanted to show you the pure masculine power and intensity. I've asked Claire to help me with this scene. Not from West Side Story, but from the play it's originally based on, Romeo and Juliet. Picture if you will. Juliet's boudoir."

Beiste asked, "So you're playing Romeo, Kurt?"

"…Yes."

Claire said, "Just so you know, I read the play last year, and I'm already off book. I just read this scene 10 minutes ago."

Emma cleared her throat and the scene began.

Claire asked, "Will thou be gone? It is not yet near day. T'was the nightingale and not the lark that pierced the faithful hollow in thine ear. Believe me, love, it was the nightingale."

Kurt said, "Tis the lark, the herald of the morn, no nightingale. What envious streaks do lace the severing clouds in yonder east. Night candles are burnt out, and jocund day stands tiptoe on the misty mountain tops. I must be gone and live, or stay and die."

"Yon light is not daylight, I know it. It is some meteor that the sun exhales, be to thee a torch bearer, to light thee on thy way to Mantua. Therefore, stay yet, thou needs to not be gone."

"Then let me be taken, let me be put to death, for I am content, thou wilt have it so. I'll say that yon gray is not the morning eye, but the pale reflex of Cynthia's brow. Nor that is not the lark, whose notes do beat the faulty heaven so high above our heads. I have more care to stay than will to go. Home, death, welcome. For Juliet wills it so."

Beiste said, "That was fantastic!"

Claire said, "And scene."

Sugar was once again off-key. "I am a shining star. I am a shining star! I am a shining…"

Shelby said, "Okay, stop, stop. Stop!" You think that used to be a song?

"Sorry. Asperger's." She hugged her and walked out. Quinn walked in and Shelby turned her head.

Quinn said, "You're not going to bring her to her senses. She shows promise, but she's kinda hopeless."

"Nobody's hopeless. What's up with you, Quinn?"

"I'm not going back to being that girl. Little miss blonde perfect."

"Quinn, were you ever really that girl? Am I supposed to believe that this is the real you?"

"Yeah, yeah, something like that."

"You're 18. You're graduating high school. This is the time, the time when you should find yourself. First step to being an adult, stop punishing yourself for what you did when you were a child."

In the auditorium the next day, they were in booty camp. Ian had already showed up. Finn fell down. "I can't do this."

Will said, "Yes, you can."

"I can't!"

"Hey, who knows more about dancing?"

"You."

"That's right. Look, I know you can do this, and I believe in you."

"One more time." He gets up and they did the routine again. Finn did it. Applause! Anne Marie finally appeared. Will said, "Anne Marie."

"Room for one more?"

"Absolutely."

Mercedes smiled, "Get in here, girl. You've been missed." They hug.

Mike also hugged her and said, "We missed you." Finn smiled when he hugged her. Ian said, "I'm proud of you."

In the teacher's lounge, Will and Emma opened their Superman and Wonder Woman lunch boxes, whereas Beiste opens her chicken case.

Will asked, "Do you eat a whole chicken every day?"

Beiste said, "I eat a whole chicken at every meal."

Shelby looked up, saw Jack and abruptly stood up.

Jack said, "Hey. Room for one more?"

Will said, "Jack!" He stood up to hug him. "What's up, brother?"

Emma also stood up and hugged him. Beiste shook his hand.

Jack asked, "So, seriously, it's cool if I sit down?"

Beiste said, "Put it down, buddy." Shelby's cheeks blushed pink. She cleared her throat and sat down. Jack sat down next to her.

Sue walked in and said, "Well, hello, She-Hulk. Vest Clown."

Will said, "Good one."

"Marmoset, Corcoran, and the not-so-new anymore guy."

Jack said, "Nice. You spend all day on that one?"

Shelby smiled at him fondly.

Sue said, "Well, I almost didn't recognize you with your newly neat beard."

Emma said, "Well, I think it's handsome."

Will said, "Oh, hey, Sue, did you hear the news? Quinn is back in glee club."

Shelby said, "Really was just a matter of time."

Sue said, "Quinn is an addict and she's relapsed back into the glee club."

Shelby said, "I know this is the teacher's lounge, but why is she in here?"

"Well, Shelby, I am here because I have made hating the arts into a brand. My campaign opponent is Reggie 'The Sauce' Salazar."

"The Sauce?" Shelby asked.

Sue walked out. Jack said, "Well, she hasn't changed."

Shelby cleared her throat again.

Will looked at his watch and said, "Oh, well. Look at the time. Well, I guess I'd better start rehearsing."

Emma said, "Oh, yeah. I have to reorganize my pamphlets."

Beiste said, "Those basketballs aren't gonna pump themselves."

As soon as they all left, Shelby and Jack were alone.

Jack chuckled, "Not very subtle, are they?"

Shelby said, "Nope. So, do you know?"

"About the purple piano project from last week?"

"It was a disaster." She chuckled. "You know, they hired a head honcho to track me down in New York. He had these two cronies with him, and one of them thought that my nose was a disguise."

"I like your nose."

Shelby smiled at that. "You know, Jack, it's funny. I never really realized that you…um…"

"You know, I heard some girl Sugar Motta wants to be a star."

"You should hear the girl sing. Actually, you shouldn't. She's terrible."

"Shelby Corcoran…"

"I'm serious!" They laugh. "You will stick around, won't you?"

"I don't want to go anywhere."

In the auditorium, Artie said, "Blaine Anderson."

Blaine said, "Hi."

"Greetings. What song are you gonna sing?"

"Uh, Something's Coming." The music started and Blaine was phenomenal. Emma smiled and Kurt smiled from up high. When Blaine was done, they were clapping and Beiste wiped her eye. Artie said, "I so want to give you a standing ovation right now."

Blaine said, "Thank you," and just when he was about to leave…

Artie said, "Wait. It says here you're interested in the role of Bernardo."

"Yeah. Or Officer Krupke. Either one's fine."

Beiste nodded and Artie said, "Would you mind reading for Tony?"

Blaine pursed his lips and Kurt walked away without smiling.

In the auditorium, everyone was in booty camp. Finn started, "Five, six…"

Santana finished, "Seven, eight." Mike, Puck and Tina spun. Kurt turned fast and Quinn turned back around. Ian turned his head and said, "You're late."

Mercedes walked and said, "I know, I overslept."

Quinn told her, "It's 4:30 in the afternoon."

Mercedes said, "My alarm clock went off 30 minutes late this morning. Kind of shifted my whole schedule. Wait, what's Santana doing here?"

Santana told her, "I've re-sworn my allegiance to glee club."

Mike said, "Mercedes, I'll catch you up. Five, six, seven, eight." They spun around and Mercedes walked to the trash can. Ian walked to her and said, "Mercedes, are you okay?"

"I think I'm gonna be sick."

Santana scolded, "She can't do three steps without puking because she ate a Quiznos before she showed up in this joint."

"Mr. Shue has us working to the second, what with school, glee club, and booty camp—when else am I supposed to eat?"

Santana told her, "Um, when the rest of us do?"

Mercedes fired back, "Oh, like you eat!"

Anne Marie snapped, "Since when do you eat?"

Ian explained, "It's not just about eating, it's also about attitude. Sectionals are coming up, and if we don't give it our best shot, we're gonna lose."

"I'm doing my best."

"I know. But you need to be better." Ian was very sympathetic.

In Figgins' office, he said to Mike's father, "Mr. Mike Chang, Sr, this is most unusual. I have no grounds to drug test your son."

Chang Sr. said, "My grandmother knew three English phrases in China: Coca Cola, kiss my grits, and Harvard."

"Your son is a football star. He's one of our best students, and he can bust a serious move."

"My son got an A-minus on his chemical test. An A-minus is and Asian F."

"Mr. Chang, I do not want to get into your business as they say, but don't you think you are putting too much on Mike, Jr.?"

"An A-minus won't do."

In the gym locker, Beiste said, "Keep yourselves clean. That includes your bat caves and your bramble patches. Also, you are all going to be part of the musical. Ballet improves your coordination. It boosts your IQ and gets the NFL on Dancing with the Stars." Remember Emmett Smith? He was the third season champion.

In the auditorium, Anne Marie was strumming the guitar while Ian played the drums. Claire was singing Pink's "U + Ur Hand." Shelby seemed to be enjoying the song and dance. The others were immensely immersed. When they were done, Shelby clapped her hands and said, "Now that is what I'm talking about."

Artie said, "Whoo!"

Beiste said, "Yeah!"

Emma said, "Wonderful. Claire, I've never seen you like this before."

Beiste said, "Glamorous."

The three all clapped. Artie said, "You killed it!"

Tina walked up to Mike, "Ready for song practice? Your audition is tomorrow."

"I'm not auditioning."

"What are you talking about? You've been practicing your singing everyday."

"I'm overwhelmed. Football, glee club, booty camp so we're ready for Sectionals. I got an A-minus, Tina."

"You got an Asian F?"

"My dad is all over me."

"You shouldn't have to hide your dreams. Just be honest with him."

"Oh, like how you were so honest about pretending to stutter all that time?"

"Point taken."

Mike closed his locker door.

Artie said, "Okay, next. Mike Chang."

Mike ran in. "I'm sorry I'm late. I'm here to audition for Riff."

Emma said, "Uh, Mike, you know that's not just a dancing part, right?"

"Yes, I do. I've been working on my singing." Then he sang "Cool" flawlessly. They clapped when he and the other football players were done. Beiste said, "Wow, Chang, that was really some fancy footwork. I just hope you didn't waste too much of your time."

Mike said, "It's what I love to do. It's never gonna be a waste of my time."

Beiste said, "Good job," and they all clapped again.

In the teachers' lounge, Beiste was eating pasta and chatted with Anne Marie. "So, no one has auditioned for your rogue singing group yet? Why do you think that is? Mmm." Anne Marie looked a little grossed out. Beiste continued, "Singing's just musical talking."

"Well, I guess if I went to school here as a student and wanted to join Glee Club, I'd want to be in New Directions." Beiste nodded and Will walked in. Anne Marie stood up. "Enjoy your pasta, Coach."

"Mm-hm."

Anne Marie held her shoulder and then took off. "Hey, Will."

"Sup, Anne Marie?" Will sat in front of Beiste. "What, no chicken?"

"I'm carbo-loading, Will. I gotta keep my strength up. I got football, I'm running the student council elections, you got me doing that musical. Thank God for Emma. She's a hard worker. You should be really proud of her."

"Well, I wish she were more proud of me."

"Mm, come on."

"I mean, I know I'm not a dentist like Carl. I don't make $80,000 a year."

"Pumpkin, that girl is crazy about you."

"She hasn't introduced me to her parents yet."

"So, introduce yourself! You're a catch, Will. You're everything a future in-law could ask for."

"You think so?"

"You bet your sweet bippy. Did you know Breadstix delivers? It's awesome."

Outside, Shelby walked and Jack met her holding a bouquet of flowers behind his back. He said, "Cast list goes up on Friday. Are you ready?"

"Yes, but I'm trying not to think about it. I don't want to get my hopes up."

"Well, I think I may know who'll get the female lead all on her own, and her initials are R & B. I got these for you." He revealed white tulips.

Shelby lit up, "Jack, that's so sweet." She took them. "What are they for?"

"You and Rachel always kill it, Shelby. You're like a dynamic duo on stage."

"Wait, how did you find out white tulips are my favorite?"

Jack shrugged.

"Heh. You always zig when I think you're about to zag. But I love them. They're beautiful. Thank you." She hugged him. She should've kissed him.

Ian said, "All right. Everyone up. Now, your homework assignment was the widow maker. Perhaps the hardest show choir move ever. Now, when you get it right, one of us is gonna tap you out. Then you can have a seat." He clapped his hands, "Five, six, seven, eight." Anne Marie played the piano and everyone did the steps. Mike said, "Okay." Puck and Santana got tapped. Ian said, "Brittany, tap it." She gave him a high-five. "You got it." Ian said, "Come on, Finn, you can do it." Mike said, "Come on, Mercedes." Finn spun and jumped. "Good job," Ian tapped him. Mike said, "Come on, open. Down. Up." Mercedes groaned, "My ankle hurts." Ian told her, "Push through it." Anne Marie stopped playing. Ian said, "Look, Mercedes, I want you to be the best that you can be. Did you even practice this?"

"Yeah, I did. I tried. Where's Rachel, huh? I don't see her here."

"Rachel has other priorities, MJ," Ian fired back. "You know how she is."

Finn said, "Rachel practices it."

Mercedes fired back, "Yeah, no one asked you, Finn!"

Anne Marie was appalled, "What's gotten into you?"

Mercedes said, "You know, for two years, I took it. I'm done." She walked off.

Ian said, "Mercedes! You walk out of here, you're out of glee club."

Claire burst into "Behind Your Eyes" by Skyway Flyer.

Everyone left and Mercedes was all alone in the auditorium. "It's over." The bell rang.

Back in the auditorium, Rachel and Claire were about to sing a duet together. Rachel said, "But I don't even know these songs!"

Claire said, "Just follow my lead."

Will and Shelby were walking in to sit. Jack took one look at her and waved. Shelby waved back. Her heart started racing at the sight of him. She sighed and straightened her jacket. She was trying to hide her newfound crush on him.

The music started. Anne Marie was playing the piano. Rachel and Claire were singing "In Circles," another song from Skyway Flyer. Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves. When they were done, Rachel jumped on Claire and they hugged. Shelby shouted, "Whoo-hoo!" Anne Marie got up and took a bow. Ian clapped for her. Shelby just looked at her in a deadpan sort of way.

Finn said, "That was excellent. You were amazing."

Rachel said, "She was better than me."

Shelby was holding Jack's legs while he was changing a lightbulb in his lamp. "Okay," he said. "I think I got it." He fell and screamed. "Oh!"

Shelby screamed, "Aah!" She landed on the floor and he landed on her.

Rachel cleared her throat. Shelby gasped, then said, "Nothing happened."

"Look, if you want to be alone, all you have to do is say so, alright?"

In the auditorium, Will and the New Directions were singing "Where is the Love?" by the Black Eyed Peas.

Artie put up the cast list. Rachel got Maria, of course. Blaine got Tony. Santana got Anita and Mike got Riff. Kurt got Officer Krupke.

Quinn and Puck walked into the teachers' lounge. Quinn told Shelby, "Hello." To which she replied with, "Hi."

"We got you something." Quinn offered Shelby a bag. She opened it and pulled out… "Concealer?"

"To help with the bags."

"Don't get us wrong, Ms. Corcoran," Puck said. "It's not like you really need that stuff." Shelby scoffed.

Quinn went on, "You've been tired. It makes sense. You're a single woman, you've relocated, you have a new job. It's no wonder you stopped working out."

Shelby sighed.

Meanwhile, we are introduced to the Irish exchange student, Rory Flanagan, who will sing for us later. Outside, an angry woman shouted at Figgins, "My son can't read, and you want him to sing and dance?!" Then the bitch threw a brick at his car.

In the choir room, Tina started crying. Santana said, "You know what? If you cry every time someone gets a hangnail, it starts to lose its effect."

"It's not a hangnail. Mercedes was one of Glee's original members. I feel naked in here without her."

Puck said, "Yeah, well, get used to it." Artie glared at him. "Because without her singing for us, we're gonna have to perform naked for the judges to vote for us at Sectionals."

Will fired back with, "No. I will not let this setback crush our spirits."

Mike said, "Other than losing one of our best singers?"

Quinn said, "Kind of hard not to blame you, Mr. Shue. You were too hard on her at booty camp."

Tina said, "Artie, why couldn't you just give the role of Maria to Mercedes?"

Artie in turn said, "Because that would've damaged my integrity as an artist."

Rachel walked in, "Sorry I'm late."

Finn said, "They canceled the musical."

Rachel was shocked, "What? No. They can't cancel it."

Mike said, "Sue cut the funding."

Finn said, "We shouldn't be turning on each other."

Blaine stood up, "I agree. I can always speak from my experience with the Warblers. No show choir is just one person. We're a team. When we lost one, we just replaced them with another one."

Finn said, "Which is easy when your waiting list has a waiting list."

Anne Marie said, "But we appreciate your input, Blaine. We need that kind of optimism in here. Liven the place up a bit."

Shelby said, "Oh, is that what you're calling it now? Leave the teaching to the pros, Miss Tompkins."

Anne Marie said, "Just offering my two cents."

Rachel said, "No, you can't cancel the musical! I was considering changing my name to Maria." Claire smirked and raised an eyebrow at that.

Ian said, "Relax, Rachel, the musical's not being cancelled."

Anne Marie said, "Why don't you ask your sister? After all, you guys need a real teacher in here, right?" She walked away. Will said, "Anne Marie…" Rachel and Finn looked at her sadly. Kurt and Blaine also did. Tina and Mike looked at each other. Santana looked surprised. Brittany looked sad and Artie looked down. Quinn said, "Wow. That was heavy."

In the choir room, Artie said, "So, this may sound better in my head than out loud, but you are a real teacher."

Anne Marie raised her eyebrows in content surprise.

Artie went on, "I mean, we've all seen you in action. You and Mr. Rivers have some real talent."

"You really think so?"

"I know so. We all do. Even Mr. Shue says so."

"Thank you. And, Artie, it sounded fine out loud."

Artie smiled, nodded and rolled away.

In the teachers' lounge, Shelby poured coffee into a cup. Jack stood in the doorway and smiled. He checked his breath, cleared his throat and straightened his tie. He walked closer to her.

"Jack, hey," Shelby smiled at him.

"Hi."

"Well, I guess there's nothing wrong with having co-captains as long as you're the sole leader. I'd say you're off to a pretty good start. I don't know about you, but I think the girls in this school have a big crush on you."

"Oh, you noticed that, huh?"

"Hey, I don't need any concealer, do I?"

Jack seemed reluctant to answer. "Uh…why do you ask?"

Shelby sighed, "I don't know. I guess I'm just a little on edge lately."

Jack said, "I can relate. I've been teaching for almost a year now, and Will is taking this way too seriously."

Shelby asked, "How?"

"He only seems to be focusing on winning. It's like nothing else matters to him. It's no wonder Mercedes lost it and took off. Whatever happened to winning isn't everything? I mean, it's great, but… I've gotten used to you and Rachel being competitive. But when Will gets that way, it's like he forgets himself and loses sight of what's really important."

Shelby nodded. "I think you may be right. There are advantages to working hard. Seriously, though, I don't need any concealer?"

"Do you think you need it?"

Shelby shrugged.

"Personally, I don't think you need it. I mean, you're beautiful already without it."

Shelby smiled and kissed his cheek. "Uh," she said, "I'm sorry. I-"

"Uh, no, no, it's fine."

"I didn't mean to make you feel uncomfortable."

"No, you didn't. Uh, it's not like you haven't…"

"I know, it's just that, uh… Anyway, uh, I have to go. I have a class to teach. I'll see you later. And thank you so much." She walked out and Jack smiled.

In the choir room, Will said, "Anne Marie, you have something you wanted to say, right?"

"Yes, I do, Will." She stood up.

"All right," Will said, and Finn raised his eyebrows.

"I just wanted to acknowledge that we've all had a rough week. So, Blaine and I prepared something for what Mr. Shue just said, that the magic is still here. So this is remind all of you what Glee's all about, which should be fun." She turned to the musicians and winked.

There was a knock at Shelby's door. She slowly ran to it and looked through her peephole. She flipped her hair back before opening it. "Hey. What is it, Jack?"

"Um, I just wanted to stop by. Uh, you left your phone in your classroom."

"Oh. Thanks, I've been looking for this."

"It was just sitting on your desk. Anyway, that's all I came over for, so good night."

"Hey, wait, why don't you stay for a minute? I mean, you only just got here. Come on in." She walked. "I'll get us some water." The door closed.

Jack sat down on a stool in front of the fridge. Shelby followed to sit on the other side. She sighed, "It's everything I wanted…to be a mom. But it's just so damn hard. Rachel grew up with two dads. Our parents were hired as surrogates. Now she's back in my life, all grown up. But the hardest part isn't any of that stuff. It's when the amazing things happen, like when I first heard Rachel sing." She chuckled. "I just want to be able to look over and share that moment with someone who loves her just as much as I do. But no one's there."

"Look. I may not know what it's like, but I do know that it isn't easy. But it can be pretty rewarding. I also know that Rachel is gonna light up Broadway. Everywhere she goes, they'll see her name in big, bright lights. She'll be the biggest name in history."

Shelby smiled at him."You really believe all that?" Jack replied, "I do."

Shelby put her hand on his and he tried not to blush. She said to him, "You know, you really have a certain way with people, Jack. You always know what to say. You're an amazing man."

Jack chuckled. He started to burn. "Well, I mean, I-I wouldn't go that far."

"I would." She also started to burn.

The next day, Sugar saw Jack and melted. "Ooh. That guy over there is cute."

Mercedes said, "Oh, that's Jack Masterson. Hottest man you'll ever meet."

Shelby was going through some papers. Jack stood in the doorway. Shelby turned around and her heart started racing. "Hi," he said.

"Hi," she said.

"So, Mr. Shue wants us to meet him in the auditorium. You comin'?"

"Sure, yeah. I'll be there."

"See you there." He walked off.

Shelby exhaled, then sat on the piano. There was a note and she abruptly stood up, startled. She sighed.

In the auditorium, the Dulcet Dazzlers were performing "Unstoppable" on stage. They were good. Better than good. When they were done, Rachel said, "We are so screwed."

Shelby said, "Big time." Rachel looked at her.

In the choir room, Mike said, "Awful lot of empty chairs in here."

Rachel said, "This is not the way senior year is supposed to be."

Will said, "This isn't how I thought it would start this year, either."

Finn walked in with Rory and said, "Then I guess we have our work cut out for us. There's always new talent to be found, always a new voice. Well, everybody, I'd like to introduce my new friend, Rory Flanagan."

Quinn asked, "Can this guy even sing?"

Rory said, "I sing at Mass every Sunday. I love American music. I'd like to dedicate this song to my family." He was then singing, "Take Care of Yourself."

Rachel whispered to Claire, "He's magical." Claire smiled and nodded.

Jack took one look at Shelby, then he walked away and Shelby took one look at Jack.

In the auditorium, Rachel and Blaine were singing "Tonight" from West Side Story. Shelby was smiling. Anne Marie was playing the piano. Ian smiled. Beiste got teary-eyed. Artie looked at her. When they were done, they clapped. Beiste wiped her eye. Blaine said, "Are you gonna cry every time we sing?"

Beiste said, "I'm such a girl."

Emma said, "My only note is more teeth."

Shelby coughed.

Rachel asked, "Shelby, are you okay?"

"Yeah. I'm fine. It's just really stuffy in here." She cleared her throat.

Artie said, "Can I be honest? This song is supposed to be about a certain awakening. Have you two ever actually experienced passion?"

Shelby raised her eyebrows. Emma said, "Oh, wow. I'm gonna go."

Beiste said, "Those footballs aren't gonna inflate themselves."

Blaine said, "I'm just waiting for the right time."

Rachel said, "Yeah, me too."

The next day, Finn was helping Rachel put up campaign posters for Kurt.

Rachel said, "And one over there."

Finn said, "You know, Kurt's my brother. It's kinda hard to vote against your brother."

"Well, you can't do this with your brother." She kissed him.

"Not unless you live in Europe. What's going on with you?"

"Just the confidence of success."

"Even after Friday night."

"What's happening on Friday?"

"The football recruiter from Ohio State."

"Really? That's amazing."

"You're not pissed?"

"No. This is our future. We're going after what we want."

"You know, Burt and my mom are going canvassing all week, so I have the house to myself. Maybe you could come over."

"Really? I'll be there at 6:00." They kiss again. Finn walked off.

The school bell rang. Shelby walked by coughing. She sniffed and cleared her throat.

Rachel said, "Oh, Shelby, I'm glad you're here. What do you think of this?"

"Uh, I don't know. I don't think that unicorn horn really does Kurt justice."

"Oh, no, it's just to represent his belief that anything is possible."

Shelby sneezed into her arm.

"Bless you."

Shelby sniffled, "Oh, thank you." She ran her hand through her hair.

"So, anyway, I have something important to discuss with you."

"Sounds serious. What's up?"

"Well, Artie feels like Blaine and I aren't…passionate enough to play our roles."

"Yeah, I know. I was there."

"But you took off after he said it."

Shelby sniffled.

"I really care about Finn. And I kinda want him to be my first."

"Your first what? Oh. Oh, your first. Wow, um… God, that is serious."

"Yeah."

"You know, Artie and the other New Direction members should really be more careful about intimacy. Hell, this whole school should. Underage sex is a crime. Not exactly my idea of a good time…" She sneezed into her arm again.

"Bless you."

"Thank you," she groaned. She pulled out a tissue.

"Shelby, are you sure you're okay? You look and sound like you're getting a cold."

"Just a few sniffles. Nothing I can't handle."

"Well, since I'm going to be the lead, Blaine and I are going to have to step out of our comfort zones if we're gonna play our parts convincingly."

Shelby held in a sneeze. "Look, honey, if you want my advice about that, you need to do this the right way. How do you really feel about Finn?"

"I'm in love with him."

Shelby smiled. "Well, I'm happy for you, Rachel. I mean, Finn seems like a decent guy and I can see he really cares about you, so I guess it should feel right. You know, it'll make your first time a lot better." She blew her nose. "Thanks. Now, I'm asking you to take care of that cold."

"Rachel, I'm not that sick." She coughed.

"My mistake. You're obviously the picture of health. I'm telling you, you really should go home and get some rest."

"Rachel, I don't take sick days."

"Well, I don't either, but you look like you're wasting away. It's cold season, you need to start taking better care of yourself."

"Fine." She covered her mouth and sneezed again.

"Bless you."

"Thank you."

"Fast hands. "You're good at that." She walked. Shelby sighed and sniffled.

Blaine went back to Dalton and found the Warblers singing Billy Joel's Uptown Girl. Blaine clapped and said, "You guys killed it as always."

Trent said, "We'd sound so much better with you back in the mix. Is this your triumphant return to Dalton?"

"Actually," Blaine said, "I came to invite you all to my opening night. West Side Story. I reserved a whole block of tickets just for the Warblers."

The new guy walked to him and said, "Blaine Anderson. Sebastian Smythe."

The shook hands.

"Hi. Are you a freshman?"

"Do I look like a freshman?"

They were sitting together.

"So you're a legend at Dalton. Now, don't be modest. I didn't know who you were, but apparently form what I hear, you sing like a dream. Why did you leave Dalton?"

Blaine said, reluctantly, "Uh, let's just say I miss Dalton, but McKinley is where I'm at now."

"Well, I should go. Lacrosse practice. But could we meet again? I'd like to know more of your insights, Blaine."

Shelby blew her nose into another tissue in the auditorium the next day. Rachel went to side on the arm of a chair. "Hey, how are you feeling?" She put down some soup. "Like my head is pounding and my ears are all plugged up."

"I told you to take it easy."

Shelby coughed and sniffed.

Anne Marie said, "Okay, let's start rehearsing."

Rachel and Santana were on stage singing, "A Boy Like That."

Blaine asked, "Do you think we're too sheltered as artists? I'm serious. West Side Story is all about living outside your safe little world. Don't you want to be more adventurous?"

Kurt said, "Of course. That's why I made a bucket list. Well, anyway, we're young, so we have all the time in the world to be adventurous."

"Don't you think now is the time? While we're still young?"

Anne Marie said, "Okay, guys, great rehearsal. Same time tomorrow."

Shelby drank the last of her soup.

Rachel said, "Well, I thought that went pretty well."

Shelby held in a sneeze.

"Here we go again."

Shelby sneezed.

"Bless you."

"Thank you." She cleared her throat and sniffed. Finn later walked in and Rachel stood up.

Shelby sneezed. Rachel and Finn said, "Bless you."

"Thank you."

Shelby sneezed again.

Rachel and Finn said again, "Bless you."

"Thank you."

Finn asked, "What's up with your sister?"

Rachel replied, "She has a cold."

"Oh, never took her for being stubborn."

"Where do you think I get it from?"

Shelby inhaled to speak but sneezed again.

In unison, Rachel said, "Bless you," while Finn said, "Bless you!" in surprise.

"Thank you," Shelby groaned.

Finn said, "Anyway, I'll see you later. Hope you feel better, Ms. Corcoran."

"Thank you, Finn." Shelby wiped her nose while Finn walked away.

"You'll be fine after some rest, but if you have to sneeze, I'm giving you a mask."

"Fine. Ah, ah…"

Rachel put a finger under Shelby's nose. Shelby said, "Ohh. Thanks."

"Just try not to breathe on me."

Shelby falls down.

"Shelby!" Rachel ran to her aid.

In the nurse's office, Shelby pulled a thermometer out of her mouth and the temperature read 98.6. Normal.

"Yeah. You're right, sis. You're totally fine." Sarcasm.

"Rachel, my temperature is normal."

"But you could still be contagious." She gave her a tissue box.

Shelby pulled out a tissue and sneezed into it. Rachel dodged.

"Bless you."

"Thank you."

Kurt gave her a cup. "Never fear, Dr. Hummel's here."

Rachel asked, "What's that?"

"An old Hummel family cure. It's best if you don't ask my dad what's in it. You're in for a rough night, Ms. Corcoran. Getting rid of a cold is no easy feat."

Shelby took the cup. "Thank you, Kurt," and then drank it. She spit it out. "Oh! God."

Kurt said, "Well, what did you expect? Cranberry juice?"

Shelby wiped her mouth and moaned.

In the Lima Bean, Blaine met Sebastian and the two sat down. "Look, Sebastian, I have a boyfriend."

"Doesn't bother me if it doesn't bother you."

"No, I really care about him. He's really great."

Kurt smiled, "Who's really great?"

"You! We were just talking about you. Sebastian, this is my boyfriend, Kurt."

Kurt daintily shook his hand. "Pleasure. And how do you know Sebastian?"

Smythe said, "We met at Dalton. I've been dying to meet Blaine. The Warblers wouldn't shut up about him."

Kurt giggled, "Yes, he's even more impressive in the flesh."

Smythe asked, "Hey, what are you guys doing tomorrow night?"

Kurt said, "Well, we're rehearsing for the school musical."

"How about I make you guys some fake IDs and we'll all go to Scandals?"

Blaine said, "Scandals? That's a gay bar. Thank you, Sebastian. That's very nice of you, but that isn't kind of our thing."

Kurt said, "Let's do it."

"What?"

"Yeah, we have plenty of firsts to cross off our list. We're in."

Smythe said, "Great."

Blaine said, "Great."

In the dining room, Rachel and Finn were having dinner. They were snuggling by the fire. It seemed intimate at first, but then along the way, it got a little bit out of hand.

The next night, Kurt and Blaine went to Scandals.

Kurt looked at his card, "Chad Donaldsworth? This doesn't even look like me."

"Mine says I'm 38."

Once they were inside, the place was filled with drag queens.

Kurt said, "Aloha!"

The flashlight man said, "Enjoy. It's Drag Queen Wednesday."

Kurt said, "Look at all the glamorous drag queens. Look, there's Cher, Tina Turner… Is that Lucy or Reba?"

Blaine said, "I think that's Ginger from Gilligan's Island."

Kurt found Sebastian. "Really don't like that guy."

Smythe said, "A beer for Blaine and a Shirley Temple for Kurt with extra cherries. From what I hear, you're the designated driver. To the glamorous life."

Karofsky was there. "Better keep an eye on your boyfriend. Can I have a beer, please?"

Kurt smiled. "You're the last person I expected to see here. How's life at your new school?"

"Fine. I just want to have a normal senior year without people spreading rumors about me."

"Just so you know, I would've never told anyone. That's not who I am."

"People like me here. I feel accepted. People have been calling me a bear cub."

"Why, because you look like Yogi?"

"Heh. I don't know, I guess it's 'cause I'm burly or something."

Kurt walked to Blaine and they danced.

Outside, Blaine wanted to make out with Kurt in the car.

"Whoa, Blaine! Cold hands."

"Kurt, let's just do it. It's about us, right?"

"Right, it's about us. Which is why I don't want to spend it on a night with you dancing with another guy! And that you're sober enough to remember it the next day!"

"Why are you yelling at me?"

"Because I've never felt less like being intimate with someone."

"I think I'm just gonna walk home."

"Blaine!"

In Shelby's apartment, she was laying down on her couch, wearing a robe and trying to sleep. There was a knock on the door. "Who is it?"

"It's me," Rachel called. The door unlocked and she opened it and came in.

"Rachel, honey, I really appreciate you coming to check on me, but I'm really vulnerable right now and I just—you need to go, okay? I don't want to get you sick."

"I'm not gonna stick around. I just want to see how you're doing." Rachel was wearing a face mask.

"About as well as you'd expect." She sniffled and coughed.

"Here. I want you to have this." She gives her a bag.

"What's this?"

"Ginger. I thought you could put in your tea."

"Really? That's so sweet." She groaned and sat up. "I'm glad I don't have a fever. I'm just sorry I have to miss your first big opening night."

"Don't feel too bad. West Side Story will still be around by the time you're better."

Shelby held in a sneeze.

"That's the third time you've done that. It'll be better for your head if you just let it out."

Shelby sneezed into her tissue. Rachel pulled her mask up and said, "Bless you."

"Thank you." She sniffed. "So, how did it go with Finn?"

"It didn't. I guess it just wasn't the right time for either of us. I wanted my performance to be realistic, but when he found out that's why I was doing it, he got really hurt and ran out. Believe me, I feel terrible enough as it is."

"Well, then maybe you should wait."

"You really think I should?"

"Look, if you really want Finn to be your first, all I can say is that Artie was out of line. You need to be positive about this."

"Look, obviously, it's heating up between me and Finn, but yeah. Maybe we should wait. Is there anything else I can get for you?"

"No. Thanks." She cleared her throat.

Rachel stood up and walked, "I'll see you tomorrow."

Shelby said, "Thanks for the ginger."

"Anytime."

The next night, it was opening night. Applause sounded and they were all singing "America."

Will said, "Best musical McKinley's ever done."

After the performance, Blaine spun around.

Kurt asked, "Shouldn't you be celebrating?"

"I need to work on this move."

"Beauty of the stage, you get to do it all over again tomorrow night. Personally, I thought you and Rachel were perfect."

"Well, thank you. And your Officer Krupke killed. Really brought the house down."

"Your friends were all here. Even Sebastian."

"Give me your hand. Kurt, Sebastian doesn't mean anything to me. And you were right. Our first time shouldn't be like that. I was drunk and I'm sorry."

"I'm sorry, too." They kissed. "You take my breath away."

Rachel went to Finn's house. He was ranting about how he may never make it to college. Rachel told him that he would. She kissed him and said, "The last time I was lost in my own ambition, but I'm a girl in love with a boy spending a moment to remember for the rest of our lives."

Rachel and Blaine were performing "West Side Story" very flawlessly. Shelby sat next to Anne Marie and Ian in the audience, fully recovered from her cold. "They make quite a pair, don't they?" she said. "That's my sister up there."

Anne Marie said, "Hey. I thought you were sick."

"I got better."

When Rachel changed out of her costume, she met Shelby on the stage.

"You were really amazing up here tonight."

Rachel said, "Well, you certainly look like you're feeling better."

"Yeah, I am. Thanks again for the ginger, by the way. It really did the trick. Hey, I haven't seen Jack at all this week. Where is he?"

"I don't know. He wouldn't say. I think Miss Tompkins and Mr. Rivers said he had to go to LA for a family emergency or something. Won't be back till later. You know him. He's a family guy. Have you ever thought of being back on stage? Even if it's just for one night?"

"Maybe. In my dreams."

"I'm sorry."

"Don't be." She holds her hand. "You, Rachel, are one of the best friends I could ever ask for. If your dream comes true, it'll all be worth it. And I know I'm who I am today because I love you."

"I love you, too." They hug. "And just for the record, I totally did it."

"Wait, so you and Finn? Nice."