"Okay, quick roll call slash head count: Mom, Kitty, Kurt, Madison, Maribel, Mercedes, Rachel, Santana, Sugar, and Tina" Quinn declared, her voice carrying the authoritative tone of a well-rehearsed general. She looked at each group member, ticking them off her mental list. "And you all have your passports?"
Santana rolled her eyes playfully. "Quinn, you did this before we got to the airport, and we've all been together the whole time." Quinn silenced her with a determined look. "I organized this, so I'm in charge."
Judy and Maribel exchanged amused glances and shrugged. They knew better than to interfere with Quinn's meticulous planning. She had put her heart and soul into organizing this bachelorette weekend in Mexico, and they were happy to let her take the reins.
"Once we're through security," Quinn continued, "everyone has to give me their passports. No exceptions."
They navigated through security with minimal fuss, and Quinn's efficiency ensured a smooth process. True to her word, Quinn collected everyone's passports once they were through, storing them in a specially designed travel wallet.
With the official procedures out of the way, Kurt managed to break free from Quinn's strict plan, his eyes lighting up as he spotted a champagne bar. "Let's get our Mexico weekend off to a great start!" he exclaimed, grabbing a glass and passing one to Santana.
"To the best bachelorette party Mexico has ever seen!" Rachel toasted, raising her glass high. Mercedes chuckled, adding, "I don't know, with General Quinn over there, we may have to check the schedule for any time slots called 'fun'."
Everyone laughed, but Quinn shot Mercedes a mock glare, her lips curling into a reluctant smile. Despite her strict exterior, she knew how to enjoy herself and she knew the importance of this trip for Santana.
As they waited for their flight, Kurt, ever the social butterfly, suggested a second round of champagne. "This is a celebration, after all!" he declared, raising his glass again.
Santana felt a warmth spread through her as she looked around at her friends. This trip was more than just a bachelorette party; it was a testament to the incredible friendships she had cultivated over the years. The shared laughter, the inside jokes, the unwavering support – these were the moments she would cherish forever.
Upon landing in Mexico, the warm, tropical air embraced them, a welcome change from the cold, biting wind they had left behind. They were greeted by a friendly driver holding a sign with Santana's name on it, ready to whisk them away to their beachfront villa.
The villa was everything Santana had dreamed of – a stunning oasis with panoramic views of the ocean, a private pool, and enough space for everyone to spread out and relax. As they explored their new home for the weekend, Santana felt a sense of contentment settle over her. This was perfect.
Quinn, ever the planner, wasted no time in gathering everyone in the living room. "Alright, ladies and gays, here's the plan. Tonight, we're having a welcome dinner on the beach. Tomorrow, we have a spa day planned, followed by a sunset yacht cruise. And Sunday is reserved for a tequila tasting tour and a night out in town."
Rachel raised her hand, a mischievous glint in her eye. "And when is the time slot for 'fun'?" Quinn rolled her eyes but laughed along with the rest of the group. "There will be plenty of time for fun, I promise. But let's try to stick to the schedule, okay?"
Dinner was in thirty minutes, according to Quinn's last message in the group chat. She had taken it upon herself to help Santana get ready for the evening, ensuring everything was perfect. Santana appreciated Quinn's attention to detail and the effort she had put into organizing the trip. She felt a mixture of excitement and gratitude as Quinn adjusted the strap of her dress.
"Thank you, Quinn. For everything," Santana said, looking at her friend with heartfelt sincerity.
Quinn smiled, giving Santana a final once-over. "You look stunning, Santana."
As the time for dinner drew near, the group began to gather on the candle-lit beach. The setting was nothing short of magical. The soft glow of the candles cast a warm light on the faces of those closest to Santana, creating an intimate and serene atmosphere. The sound of waves gently lapping at the shore provided a soothing background melody.
"How are you the last one here?" Santana teased Kurt as he finally arrived, fashionably late. Kurt shrugged with a playful grin. "Had to make an entrance. And besides, I had to make sure my outfit was perfect." Santana laughed, shaking her head. "Well, you do look fabulous." Kurt glanced around, taking in the beautifully decorated beach. "This looks incredible. Absolutely beautiful."
The private chef began to bring out the first course, and Marabel couldn't help but note, "This isn't Mexican food." Everyone burst into laughter, the light-hearted comment breaking any remaining tension. Santana grinned, lifting her wine glass. "Listen, I'll never complain about being given lobster."
As the meal progressed, the mood became more relaxed and jovial. The food was exquisite, each course outdoing the last. Conversations flowed easily, filled with laughter and shared memories. It was a perfect evening, a celebration of love and friendship.
As they settled into the main course, Santana stood up, her glass of wine in hand. The conversations quieted, and all eyes turned to her.
"I just want to thank all of you for coming out here for this," Santana began, her voice steady but filled with emotion. "To all my New York friends, Madison from back home, Kitty, and of course, mine and Brett's Mom's. This weekend will be incredible, and I couldn't have asked for a better group of people to share it with."
She raised her glass, and everyone followed suit. "Here's to love, friendship, and unforgettable memories. Now, let's get drunk!" she declared, knocking back her glass with a grin.
Laughter and cheers erupted as everyone clinked glasses and followed her lead. The rest of the evening was a blur of joy and celebration. They danced under the stars, their feet sinking into the cool sand as music played from a portable speaker Kurt had brought. Santana felt a sense of liberation, a carefree happiness that only came from being surrounded by those she loved.
The following morning, the group gathered around the breakfast table, each one wearing sunglasses as a testament to the previous night's festivities. The sun filtering through the villa's windows felt unforgiving to their tired eyes. The scent of freshly brewed coffee and an assortment of breakfast foods laid out on the table did little to lift their collective hangovers.
"I think I slept for about an hour," Tina mumbled to Santana, clutching a Bloody Mary like it was a lifeline. Her voice was raspy, evidence of too much shouting and laughter the night before.
Santana, feeling equally groggy, managed a weak smile. "I think I need something stronger to keep me going today." She reached for the coffee pot, hoping the caffeine would kickstart her system.
Quinn, ever the organized planner, walked in, looking remarkably put together despite the dark sunglasses perched on her nose. She clapped her hands to get everyone's attention, causing a chorus of groans. "Alright, everyone, listen up. We'll be picked up in one hour to head to the spa."
Another collective groan rose from the group. The prospect of moving, let alone getting into a vehicle, seemed like a Herculean task at that moment.
"I don't think I can move" Rachel moaned, slumping in her chair.
"Do we have to?" Mercedes asked, her head resting on the table.
Quinn put her hands on her hips, her expression stern but playful. "Yes, we have to. A spa day will be perfect to rejuvenate us. Trust me, you'll thank me later."
Madison, holding her head as if it might fall off, looked at Santana. "Can you tell your best friend to go easy on us?" Santana laughed softly, though it felt like a mistake to do so. "You know Quinn. Once she has a plan, she sticks to it. But she's right, a spa day could be exactly what we need."
Reluctantly, everyone began to prepare for the outing. The villa was a flurry of movement as they showered, dressed, and tried to make themselves feel human again. The promise of the spa's calming atmosphere was a small beacon of hope in their hungover haze.
An hour later, they piled into the waiting vehicles. The drive to the spa was mercifully short, and soon they were greeted by the serene, tranquil environment of the spa resort. It was a stark contrast to the wild night they had just experienced. The soothing scents of lavender and eucalyptus wafted through the air, and the gentle sound of water features provided an immediate sense of calm.
The group was ushered into a luxurious lounge area where they were given plush robes and slippers. The staff, professional and understanding, offered them an assortment of detoxifying drinks and snacks designed to replenish their energy.
Quinn, now looking much more relaxed, smiled at the group. "See? This is going to be amazing."
Santana nodded appreciatively. "Okay, you were right. This place is incredible."
They were soon whisked away to their respective treatments. Santana found herself in a tranquil room with soft music playing in the background. As she lay down on the massage table, she felt the tension start to melt away even before the massage began.
The therapist's hands worked magic on her sore muscles, and for the first time since waking up, Santana felt herself truly relaxing. Her mind drifted back to the recent baby conversations she had had with Brett. She knew there were still unresolved issues to address, but for now, she allowed herself to be fully present in the moment.
After the massage, Santana joined the others in the hot springs. The warm, mineral-rich water worked wonders on their tired bodies. They soaked in silence for a while, letting the heat and minerals work their magic.
"This is heaven," Kitty sighed, leaning her head back against the edge of the pool.
"I could stay here forever" Mercedes agreed, her eyes closed in bliss.
After their soak, they moved to a lounge area where they were served a light, healthy lunch. The heavy atmosphere from the breakfast table had lifted, replaced with the easy camaraderie that had always defined their friendships. Quinn raised her glass of sparkling water. "To Santana, the bride-to-be. May the rest of this weekend be as amazing as last night and as relaxing as today."
"Hear, hear!" everyone chorused, clinking their glasses together.
The rest of the afternoon was spent indulging in various spa treatments: facials, manicures, pedicures, and even a few yoga sessions for those who were feeling up to it. By the time they returned to the villa, they were rejuvenated and in much better spirits.
That evening everyone gathered on the yacht, the smell of barbecue wafting through the air as they sailed out to sea. Music blared from the speakers, adding to the festive atmosphere. Santana, already a few drinks in, knocked back another tequila shot, feeling the warmth spread through her body. "Come on, Judy, have just one shot" she slurred, holding out the glass. The group picked up on her encouragement, chanting Judy's name in unison.
Judy, ever the good sport, finally gave in. She took the shot glass from Santana, her face contorting in a mixture of bravery and revulsion. As the liquid burned its way down her throat, she gagged, making everyone burst into laughter. "That's the worst thing I've ever drank," she declared, wiping her mouth with the back of her hand.
Santana shrugged, grinning mischievously. "More for me, I guess," she said, taking the second shot out of Judy's hand and downing it in one go. Her vision wavered slightly as the alcohol hit her system, but she was riding a wave of euphoria too strong to care.
She glanced around and saw Kurt munching on a chicken wing near the barbecue. "The food is ready!" she slurred, stumbling towards the grill. The tantalizing aroma of grilled meats and vegetables filled the air, making her stomach rumble.
Madison and Mercedes were already by the barbecue, piling plates high with ribs, burgers, and skewered vegetables. "Santana, you're already drunk, you need to have a break and some water" Mercedes warned with a half-smile, handing her a plate.
Santana laughed, the sound loud and carefree. "It's my party; I'll drink if I want to!" she retorted but took the plate gratefully. She piled on some grilled shrimp and a piece of corn on the cob, savoring the taste as she bit into it.
As the yacht cut through the waves, the group settled into a comfortable rhythm of eating, drinking, and dancing. Kurt had commandeered the music, playing a mix of upbeat tunes that had everyone swaying. Rachel and Tina performed an impromptu duet, their voices harmonizing beautifully even as they struggled to keep their balance on the swaying deck.
Marabel and Judy, meanwhile, found a quiet corner near the bow, enjoying the sunset and their food, laughing at the antics of the group. The sky was a canvas of colors—fiery oranges and pinks that gradually gave way to deep purples and blues. The beauty of the setting sun over the open water was mesmerizing, and for a moment, everyone paused to take in the view.
"Can you believe how beautiful this is?" Marabel asked, leaning back in her chair and stretching her legs out in front of her. Judy nodded, taking a sip of her wine. "It's like a dream."
Marabel smiled, glancing over at the group gathered around the barbecue. "Santana hasn't changed a bit. Look at her, passed out with half-eaten corn in her hand." A fond smile played on her lips. "It's like she's eighteen again."
Judy chuckled, nodding in agreement. "Well, she's Brett's problem now." Both women laughed, as they shared memories of Santana and Brett's youthful escapades.
As the night deepened, the stars began to twinkle above, turning the sky into a glittering canopy. The yacht's deck was now lit by fairy lights strung up earlier in the day, casting a warm, golden glow over everything. The atmosphere was magical, and it felt like the perfect prelude to the big event that lay ahead.
The sound of clinking glasses and laughter filled the air. Kurt's playlist had shifted to slower, more nostalgic songs, and everyone began to dance under the stars even Marabel and Judy couldn't resist, eventually getting up to dance together, their laughter mingling with the music.
The soft knock on the door was barely audible, but Marabel's voice was clear as she gently roused Santana and Quinn from their slumber. The bright midday sun filtered through the curtains as Marabel pushed them open, flooding the room with light. Santana, nestled in her bed, groaned and buried her face deeper into her pillow, seeking refuge from the harsh intrusion of daylight. Quinn stirred beside her, her eyes fluttering open and squinting against the sudden brightness.
"It's lunchtime, girls," Marabel said cheerfully, though her tone was gentle, almost as if she was aware of the effect the early hour had on her friends. She stood in the doorway, her presence a mix of authority and warmth, a stark contrast to the sleep-dazed disorientation of her companions. The room was cluttered with remnants of their previous night's activities—empty glasses, discarded clothing, and the occasional food wrapper.
Santana rolled over, trying to shield her eyes from the light with her forearm. "Ugh, why so early?" she mumbled, her voice thick with sleep. Marabel chuckled softly. "It's not early, you have three hours until the tequila tasting. We're meeting everyone down by the beach for lunch in an hour."
"Three hours" Quinn echoed, her voice groggy but more alert. She stretched her arms above her head and yawned, her muscles protesting against the sudden wakefulness. "Alright, alright. We'll get up."
Marabel gave them a final encouraging smile before leaving the room, the door clicking softly behind her. Santana and Quinn exchanged groggy glances, their sleep-clouded minds struggling to shift into wakefulness.
They spent the next hour getting ready, the combination of hot water and lively conversation slowly erasing the remnants of their fatigue. By the time they emerged from their room, they were dressed and refreshed, ready to enjoy the rest of their day. Santana wore a flowy sundress, her hair styled in loose waves that framed her face, while Quinn opted for a chic romper, her hair pulled back in a casual updo.
"Look at you two! You made it on time!" she called out, her tone a mix of surprise and delight. As the rest of the group arrived, they gathered around the table, the food quickly becoming the center of attention. The conversation was lively, filled with laughter, and shared excitement for the afternoon's events.
After lunch, they made their way to the tequila-tasting venue, a charming local establishment nestled amidst lush greenery. The setting was picturesque, with rustic wooden tables and an open-air layout that allowed them to fully immerse themselves in the surroundings.
The tasting began with a brief introduction to the history of tequila and the production process. The host explained the different types of tequila—blanco, reposado, añejo—and how each one was crafted to produce unique flavors and characteristics.
As the first tequila was poured, Santana took a deep breath, savoring the aroma before taking a sip. The flavor was complex, a blend of smoothness and subtle spices that left a lingering warmth. She glanced at Mercedes, who seemed equally impressed.
"This is amazing," Santana whispered, leaning in. "I didn't realize how much difference there could be between each type." Rachel nodded, her eyes wide with appreciation. "It's like tasting a bit of history with each sip."
The afternoon passed in a blur of flavors and laughter. The group sampled various tequilas, each one revealing new notes and textures. They learned about the craftsmanship behind each bottle and the passion that went into creating them.
As they finished their final tasting, the group was buzzing with energy, their senses both overwhelmed and delighted by the complexity of the spirits they had sampled. The sun had begun its descent, casting a golden glow over the lush landscape that surrounded the tequila-tasting venue.
Judy and Marabel decided it was time to head back to the villa. "We'll leave you guys to enjoy the rest of the evening," Judy said with a smile, her tone betraying a mix of amusement and relief. "You all look like you've got plenty of energy left." Marabel nodded in agreement. "We'll see you later. Don't stay out too late!"
Their departure marked the beginning of the next phase of the evening. With Judy and Marabel heading back to the villa, the remaining group were energized, tipsy, and eager to continue their exploration of the local nightlife.
"Where should we head next?" Kitty asked as they gathered outside the tasting venue, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "I'm starving, and I've heard there are some fantastic places to eat around here." Kurt chimed in with enthusiasm. "Let's grab some food first. I'm thinking we should try that seafood place we passed on the way here. I heard their ceviche is amazing."
They made their way toward the seafood restaurant, and the lively conversation and laughter from the tequila tasting continued. The restaurant, situated close to the beach, offered a stunning view of the ocean as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink.
The group settled at a large table, their conversations overlapping as they eagerly perused the menu. The restaurant had a relaxed and vibrant atmosphere, with live music adding a rhythmic backdrop to their meal. The fresh, oceanic breeze complemented the flavorful dishes that were soon to arrive.
"Let's order a bit of everything," Madison suggested, her eyes scanning the menu with anticipation. "I want to try the seafood paella and the fish tacos. And some of that mango salsa." Mercedes agreed, nodding vigorously. "Yes! And don't forget the guacamole. I've been craving it all day."
The food arrived promptly, and the table was soon filled with an array of colorful and delicious dishes. They dug in with gusto, savoring each bite and sharing their favorite dishes. The conversation flowed as freely as the drinks, and it wasn't long before the group's laughter and chatter filled the restaurant.
Once they had finished their meal, they decided it was time to explore the local bars. The night was young, and they were all eager to continue the festivities. They made their way through the vibrant streets, which were alive with the sounds of music and the hum of conversation.
The first bar they entered had a lively atmosphere, with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the evening. The music was upbeat, and the energy was infectious. They found a corner where they could relax and enjoy the music while ordering their drinks. "Let's get a round of cocktails!" Santana suggested, her excitement evident. "We're on vacation, after all."
Quinn grinned, raising her glass in agreement. "To a night of fun and celebration!" The group toasted and settled in, their glasses clinking together in a harmonious chorus. The night continued with dancing, laughter, and a series of spontaneous toasts. The bar's vibrant atmosphere added to the sense of liberation and joy that had been building throughout the day.
As the evening progressed, they hopped from bar to bar, each venue offering its own unique experience. They danced to a variety of music styles, from salsa to electronic, and engaged in playful conversations with locals and fellow travelers. The group's dynamic was one of pure camaraderie, their spirits high as they embraced the freedom of the night.
By the time they decided to call it a night, the sky was beginning to lighten, signaling the early hours of the morning. They stumbled back to the villa, their laughter echoing through the streets as they recounted the highlights of the evening.
"That was incredible," Sugar said, stretching her legs out on the couch. "I haven't had that much fun in ages." Tina nodded in agreement, her eyes bright with excitement. "One for the books."
Santana's eyelids fluttered open, her body sluggish and heavy, as the soft chime of her phone's alarm cut through the haze of sleep. It felt like she had only closed her eyes for a brief moment.
Marabel and Judy began rounding everyone up with a meticulous efficiency that was both appreciated and lamented by the groggy group. The villa, once vibrant with the noise of celebration, was now subdued and echoing with the soft murmur of goodbyes and the occasional yawn. Santana, who had been hoping for just a few more moments of sleep, slipped into her clothes from the night before—an outfit that was more comfortable than stylish at this point.
The group, a disheveled but contented ensemble, trudged their way through the quiet streets towards the airport. Sunglasses were firmly in place, a feeble attempt to shield their bleary eyes from the harsh morning light. The air was filled with a somber silence, punctuated only by the occasional murmur of conversation or the shuffle of luggage.
At the airport, the mood shifted to one of polite melancholy as they each began to say their goodbyes. Madison and Marabel headed to their gate, sharing one last, heartfelt hug with Santana before making their way through security. Quinn, standing beside Santana, offered a warm embrace to Kitty and Judy. Her own eyes were tired but gleaming with the appreciation of shared memories. "See you soon," Quinn murmured, her voice a soft promise amidst the quiet bustle of the terminal.
Santana echoed the sentiment, her voice barely a whisper as she followed Kitty and Judy towards their gate. Once they reached their gate, Santana found a seat and sank into it, placing her head in her hands. The weight of the previous night left her feeling drained.
The flight itself was thankfully uneventful, though Santana found it difficult to fully relax. The hours stretched out as she tried to catch snippets of sleep, her mind still buzzing with the memories of their time in Mexico.
When they finally touched down in Miami, the sight of Brett and Sam waiting for them was a welcome relief. The bright smiles on their faces were a stark contrast to the tired expressions of Santana and Kitty. Brett's exuberant shout, "San!" cut through the airport noise, and Santana felt a wave of relief as he pulled her into a tight hug. His warmth and familiar scent were comforting, a reminder of home and the person she had missed.
"I've missed you," Brett murmured into her hair, his voice filled with genuine affection. Santana mumbled a tired but heartfelt response, "Missed you too." It was a simple exchange, but it carried the weight of the past few days and the comfort of returning to familiar ground.
Judy told them with a wry smile that Santana and Kitty had only just arrived back at the villa an hour before they had to leave. The news prompted a laugh from Sam and Brett, the tension of the trip dissipating with their shared humor.
Sam, ever the attentive one, wrapped an arm around Kitty as he assured his mom that he would drop her off at home. It was a small gesture but one that underscored the close-knit relationships within the family. Brett, meanwhile, took Santana's hand and guided her towards the car, his excitement visible as he peppered her with questions about the bachelorette party and the weekend.
As they got in the car, Santana could feel the weight of the past few days catching up with her. The excitement in Brett's voice, though endearing, felt overwhelming in her current state. She took a deep breath, trying to steady herself against the rising nausea. "Brett, can you just… not?" she said, her voice strained. "I'm trying so hard not to vomit."
Brett's eyes widened with concern, but his laughter betrayed his relief at seeing her again. He rubbed her thigh gently, a reassuring gesture despite the lightheartedness of his laughter. "Sorry, San," he said, his tone softening.
As Santana opened the window and stuck her head out to get some fresh air, she tried to focus on the calm of the moment. The cool breeze against her face was a welcome relief from the lingering effects of the tequila and the exhaustion from the trip.