They aren't far from school when Brittany gets a text from Rachel. Apparently, she needs to talk to her about something. She tells Santana and watches as her shoulders deflate. "I'm sorry, baby. I want to stay over, but I should go back to my room. She needs to talk, and I should unpack."

"I know, B. I just really don't like sleeping without you."

"Me neither." After their goodbyes, which they say with their lips very close together for several long minutes (interrupted by Quinn threatening to pour water on them), Brittany heads up to her room. When she gets there, Rachel is singing in the mirror as usual. "Hey Rach. How was break?"

"Excellent. My fathers and I celebrated Thanksgiving and watched Funny Girl, as per tradition."

"Sounds...cool." Brittany still hasn't told Rachel that she's never actually seen Funny Girl. While she's not opposed to watching it, she's not exactly eager either.

"How was your break with Santana? Did you see Quinn at all?"

"It was amazing! Her family is great. I didn't see Quinn until we drove her back with us." Brittany wishes those two would quit being ridiculous and just get together already, but she trusts they'll eventually figure it out themselves.

"That's wonderful. I'm glad you had a good time. So on the topic of breaks, I was wondering if you might like to come to Ohio with me for the first week of Christmas break? My dads want to meet you, and they already offered to pay for your bus tickets there and back to your place, so it wouldn't cost you anything, other than time away from your family if you wouldn't mind sparing it."

"Yes!" she says eagerly, then tries to calm her immediate excitement a little. "That sounds awesome, Rach. Why do your dads want to meet me, though?"

"I've just told them a lot about you, and since you're my roommate and one of my best friends, they thought it might be fun. Are you sure you can come? Do you need to talk to your family?"

"Nope. I'm positive."

Over the next hour, Brittany tells Rachel all about her trip to New York City, which basically turns into "Rachel reviews every Broadway musical that has ever existed." Brittany doesn't mind, though. She really hopes she'll get to see a big show like that someday.

When Rachel goes back to singing, she calls Santana. "San, guess what?! Rachel invited me to her house for the first week of break! Isn't that awesome?" Although Santana's initial reaction is jealousy because she wants to spend that time with Brittany, she's also happy, because that means one less week the blonde will have to spend at her parents' house. It also reminds her that she needs to talk to her mom about Christmas break.

After Brittany hangs up and runs to the on-campus store for juice and cereal bars (essentials), Santana calls her mother to ask how long Brittany can stay over break. She's unsurprised but disappointed when Maribel says that Brittany should spend Christmas with her family and that she can come right after New Year's. Her mother will even buy Brittany's ticket as a Christmas gift. Santana thanks her and says that she'll get her the exact date as soon as possible. While she isn't exactly excited about the prospect of Brittany spending almost two weeks at her parent's house, she knows it could be worse. Plus, if she comes on January 2, they can spend Brittany's birthday together on the 4th. She already knows part of Brittany's birthday gift, as long as Gabe can come through.


When Brittany wakes up on Monday morning, she checks her email to see that the department secretary has her schedule for next semester. She picks it up between her class and meeting Santana for lunch. Given that they've been apart for less than 24 hours and spent an entire week together before that, she's not sure how she can miss Santana so much, but she does. When she sees her, wearing a beautiful smile, it's everything she can do to not jump on Santana and kiss her senseless. She's able to keep it mostly cool, giving her a kiss that's only slightly too long.

Once they get food and sit down at one of their usual tables, Santana says, "We should make a study schedule for finals as soon as possible. I might reserve one of those rooms in the library for us if they aren't all already taken."

"Okay. We can do that now if you want, or after we eat? Oh! I got my schedule for next semester today."

"What'd you get? Anything fun?"

"Yep. Hip hop, that's exciting. Plus another improv class and ballet."

"What about your other classes?" Santana has been secretly worrying about this for a while, fearing that there will be a class she can't help Brittany with.

"I don't remember." After digging around in her bag, Brittany hands the sheet of paper to Santana, who bites her lip as she reads it. She can help with English II but not Environmental Geology. To make matters worse, it even has a lab. Brittany watches Santana's face fall. "What's wrong, San?"

"I don't know anything about Environmental Geology." At first, Brittany doesn't know why this matters, but then it hits her: the only reason she's getting through her classes this semester is because of Santana's help. Feeling nervous, she starts playing with her fingers, and Santana grabs her hands to still them. "We'll figure it out, okay? For now, let's just eat lunch." She kisses Brittany's fingers before releasing her hands so that Brittany can eat her Lucky Charms and strawberry salad.

Santana can't stop thinking about what they're going to do. Can Brittany ask to switch to a different class? That's probably not an option, because B.F.A programs are fairly rigid when it comes to required classes and when they can be taken. Perhaps she can take the class too? She's already filled her science and lab blocks, though, and she knows her schedule is going to be full next semester. She's finishing up some homework in the library when she decides to pursue what she thinks might be the only solution. To be honest, the idea has been in her head for a long time—most of the time that she's known Brittany.

Sitting in front of a computer, she types in "Office Learning Disabilities." She knows their school has one, because Sam has to check in there once a semester. He's always forgetting about the meetings, and Mercedes is always yelling at him for it. According to their website, the office is actually in the library and still open. Closing the window, Santana grabs her things and runs there.

A woman sitting at the desk greets her when she enters. "Hello, do you have an appointment?"

"No. I, uh, I'm actually looking for some information." The woman just stares at her for a moment, waiting for her to continue. "I don't know what I'm supposed to tell you, I'm sorry."

"No worries. What kind of information do you need?"

"My girlfriend, she's really smart, but she has a hard time learning. I think that maybe if she gets some help, it might be easier for her. I just don't want her to struggle so much anymore."

"That's sweet of you. Why don't I give you this pamphlet with general information about learning disabilities? There's some information about the services we provide, but don't worry about learning the specifics. Self-diagnosing is dangerous. Our number is on the back, so if she feels like it would be in her best interest to call, she can schedule an appointment with one of our counselors. Does that help?"

"I think so. Thank you." Santana folds up the pamphlet and tucks it into her back pocket.


Halfway through dinner with Brittany, Santana can't wait anymore. "Britt, can I talk to you about something?"

"What's up?"

"I think..." she hesitates. "You might have a learning disability. I think you know that too." Brittany looks down at her plate, but Santana knows she needs to get through this. "It doesn't mean you're stupid, B. You're one of the smartest people I know. I just think you learn and understand things in a different way from how your teachers explain them."

"What do you mean?"

"Well, you don't learn a lot in class, right?" Brittany nods towards the table again. Rationally, she knows Santana isn't calling her stupid, but emotionally, she's terrified that she's thinking it and can't help but be ashamed. "But you learn a lot when we study together, so you're definitely learning just fine—just not in the way your professors teach. As much as I wish I could, I can't teach you things I don't know, so we need to figure out how to keep your grades up." She pulls out the pamphlet and hands it to Brittany. "I think this might be it, baby. They can help. You could at least talk to them, right?"

"I could. I know you're right. I just hate that I need more help than everyone else. It makes me feel—"

"Don't even say it. You're not stupid. You are anything but stupid. I wouldn't date a stupid girl, no matter how pretty she is." She winks at Brittany, trying to lighten the mood, and gets a little smile in return. "So you'll call? If it doesn't work out, we'll think of something else. Maybe you could get your schedule changed to something I've taken. But let's try this first, yeah?"

"Yeah." Brittany sounds a little more resolute.

"Do you want me to come with you?"

"I think I can go on my own. I'll call tomorrow, promise."

"Perfect. I'm proud of you, babe." Santana goes to eat a bite of her food when she remembers that she still hasn't asked Brittany about Christmas. "Totally different subject. I talked to my Mom about Christmas break. She said that if you want, you can come up right after New Year's and stay with us for the rest of break. She'll even pay for your bus ticket as a Christmas gift to you."

"So I can spend my birthday with you?"

"Yep, and almost two weeks before school starts again. We can even come back to school early if we want some alone time."

"Mmm, alone time. What would we need that for?" Brittany says before taking a sip of her water and winking at Santana.

Santana laughs and bumps the side of Brittany's leg with her foot. "Love you."

"Love you too. Always," Brittany responds before stealing the last fry off of Santana's plate.


Even though the Office for Students with Disabilities promises Brittany that they won't give her any tests without fair warning, she's still nervous for her Friday appointment. When Kurt tells her Wednesday afternoon that he won a manicure for two at a nail salon he used to go to and that he wants to give it to her, she thinks it's the perfect distraction. "Why don't you want it?" she asks, curious.

"I used to date a boy that works there, and it's awkward now that I'm dating Blaine. So you go. You just have to use the coupon today or tomorrow. Have fun!"

Brittany thanks him, then texts Santana.

To Santana: Want to get manicures today or tomorrow? Kurt gave me a coupon for a manicure for two.

From Santana: Aw Britt, I'd love to, but I can't. It's bad for guitar playing. I'll go with you though?

To Santana: I'll just ask Rachel or Quinn or someone. Love you!

From Santana: Love you too. Quinn is probably out, though. She's locked herself in her room to finish a paper she procrastinated on. I'm sure hobbit will be in.

To Santana: Rude. But you're so hot.

From Santana: Don't you forget it.

Brittany laughs before calling Rachel. "Hey Rach, do you want to get a free manicure with me sometime today or tomorrow?"

"I would, Brittany, but I have practice time booked for both days. Plus, the dust and chemicals in the air could not possibly be good for my vocal cords. I'm sorry. Maybe Quinn?"

"Maybe. Good luck. I'll talk to you later." After hanging up, Brittany scrolls through her phone.

To Mercedes: Hey! Do you want to get a free manicure with me today or tomorrow?

When she gets out of class, she has a response waiting for her.

From Mercedes: Hey girl. Sorry, I can't. I promised Kurt I'd go with him to another salon today in solidarity. Try Rachel?

To Mercedes: Thanks anyways. Have fun!

Giving up, she locks her phone and heads to the library to meet Santana for study time.

The next morning, while Santana's still asleep, she meets Sam at the gym. Halfway through their workout, they take a break. "What are you up to today?" Sam asks as he wipes some sweat off his brow.

"Santana and I are going to study for a while, and then Kurt gave me this free manicure coupon for two, but nobody can go with me...so I'm going to do that by myself, I guess, and then just hang out at the apartment." Brittany seems a little down about going to the salon by herself.

Sam hates that look on Brittany. He hates it so much, in fact, that..."Well, I was actually planning on getting a manicure soon. Could I go with you? Save myself some money."

"You'll go with me?!" Brittany's face instantly brightens. It lights up so quickly that, had it been anyone else, he might wonder if he just got tricked into going to a nail salon. But it's Brittany, and everything about her is genuine.

"Of course. You're my friend. It might be fun, I've never done it before."

"It's going to be so much fun!"

And that's how Sam ends up at a nail salon, arguing with a woman that he does not need a shiny top coat, no matter how much she promises it will fade in 24 hours. All because of a blue-eyed blonde that reminds him of his little sister and, honestly, looks like she could desperately use a big brother. He knows Brittany's been through a lot; he can tell from her personality, and he suspects that whatever happened at the dance concert is probably related. Still, he won't ask. She'll share when she's ready.

Brittany has an awesome time. It turns out that Sam is hilarious at nail salons. Everyone is really nice to her, and some guy, whom Brittany suspects is Kurt's ex, keeps hitting on Sam. She chooses the prettiest blue she's ever seen as the color for her nails. Although Sam manages to avoid the shiny top coat, he's unable to skip "nail strengthener," whatever that is. The woman says it'll make his nails break less. Unfortunately, it's also shiny, so the entire car ride home, Sam keeps rubbing his nails on his jeans, which amuses Brittany to no end.

When they get back to Santana's apartment, he does his best to keep his hands in his pockets. Mercedes is there, and Quinn actually comes out of her room, semi-relaxed since she made good progress on her paper. Santana hugs Brittany and compliments her nails, which really do look pretty. She wishes she could have nice nails, but that would mean no guitar, and she likes it too much. Brittany likes it too. Lazy mornings spent laying naked in bed, listening to Santana play, are one of her favorite things.

After hanging out for about an hour, Mercedes brings up the topic that's been on her mind. "So what happened? At the dance concert?"

About to step in, Santana looks at Brittany and opens her mouth, but Brittany speaks first. "Before I came to school, I was in a really bad relationship. I don't like to talk about it. He showed up, but Santana's brothers handled it. I don't think he'll be back." Santana squeezes Brittany's hand.

Sam walks over and gives Brittany a hug. "You know if you ever need anything, you have me too, right?" Brittany nods, struck again by overwhelming gratitude for her friends. Mercedes doesn't say anything except a small apology, and Quinn gives her a sympathetic look then nods, as if to say that it's okay she doesn't want to talk about it. Truthfully, Quinn suspected Brittany had been abused. She wasn't sure if it was family, an ex, or someone else, but Brittany displays a lot of the classic signs. While it looks like she's right, she has never wished so hard that she could be wrong. To meet Brittany is to like her. You'd have to be some kind of monster to hurt her.


Friday morning before her appointment, Brittany runs into Mike in the dance department. She hasn't seen him since the concert. While she isn't avoiding him, she knows that, like the others, he has questions, but probably more specific since he was there. They hang out and chat, but he doesn't bring it up, and she's starting to get anxious. "If you have questions about what happened at the dance concert, you can ask."

"Between what Santana told me and what I saw, I kind of figured out what was going on. Plus, if you don't want to talk about it, you don't have to. Just know that I'll kill him before he ever touches you again. I'm sorry it even got that far. I was caught off-guard." Mike's tone is calm, but Brittany can feel the anger behind his words. She hugs him, and the mood immediately relaxes when Mike asks about her schedule next semester. They'll have Hip Hop together, which makes Brittany even more excited for the class.

Later that day, when she gets to the office for her appointment, her hands are shaking. Following the secretary's directions, she goes to room 3, where a man greets her. He seems really nice. "Sit, Brittany, please. My name is Patrick. How are you? You look a little nervous."

"I am. Sorry."

"You don't need to apologize. I understand this can be a nerve-racking thing. Why don't you tell me why you're here?"

"I don't think I learn very well. My girlfriend is the only reason I can keep my grades up. She has to pretty much re-teach me everything my professors teach in class."

"Why do you think that is?"

"Well, I can't listen and write at the same time. How can anyone? Those are two totally different things...like trying to ride a bike and swim at the same time. It doesn't work for me."

"That's a really good analogy. I think I'll have to steal that one." He chuckles. "Has it always been this way?"

"Yeah...I've never done well in school. I think my teachers only passed me because they didn't want to deal with me. But I always tried really hard. I had to. My parents wouldn't let me dance if I didn't do well."

"You dance?"

"All the time. Actually, that's the only reason I got in here. My grades were bad, but I'm a good dancer. I have to keep my grades up, though, or I'll lose my scholarship...which is why I'm here. I can't lose it."

Patrick continues asking questions for the better part of an hour—about her schooling when she was little, how and if her parents had helped her with schoolwork, what subjects she likes, which ones give her the most trouble, and how different school-related situations make her feel. "Thank you for giving me such honest answers, Brittany. It would require further testing if we wanted to medicate you, but I don't think that's what we want to do. I'm fairly confident you have a mild case of ADHD, as well as LDNOS. Do you know what those mean?"

"Kind of? Isn't ADHD when really hyper kids act out and stuff? I'm not like that."

"It can definitely manifest like that, but you have found ways all on your own to deal with your excess energy—which, by the way, shows that you're very self-aware. I can tell how smart you are, Brittany. For you, I think ADHD means it's hard to focus your mind when you're also being made to sit still. Luckily, I don't think your case is very severe, which is why you've managed to use dance and exercise to help you. Does that make sense?"

"I think so. I would definitely rather be moving than sitting in a classroom."

"Exactly. Unfortunately, we can't let you move around in the classroom, since that'd be disruptive to the other students, but we can try to make classrooms less confusing, which will hopefully help make them a little more interesting. Now, LDNOS means Learning Disorder Not Otherwise Specified. That one is a little more broad. It basically means that you display traits of having a learning disability, but not enough traits for just one, so it's hard to diagnose. Again, for you, the important part is that it just means you learn differently. That's why writing and listening at the same time is hard for you. We have a lot of resources to help you with that. Would you like to discuss those things now? Or do you want to go home and think about all of this? I don't want to overwhelm you."

"No, I want to know now!"

"Okay! I'm glad you're excited. First of all, learning is a skill, and everyone learns in different ways. A lot of times, it helps when people are taught how to learn. So I'd like to recommend that you set up two sessions a week with one of our tutors."

"I tried tutoring. It didn't work."

"You were probably tutored by a student who wasn't trained for learning disabilities. The tutors we have here, that's their job—to care and to help. They are general tutors, so they can help you with most of your subjects, but most importantly, they can teach you how to learn better. Another thing that I think you'll like is that we can talk to your professors for you. We can request that they send us their lecture notes, so that way, you don't have to write during class. You can simply focus on listening, and we'll provide you with the notes in advance. Not all professors have that as an option, though, so for the ones that don't, we'll give you this little tool." He pulls a small silver box out of his drawer. "It's a digital recorder. At the beginning of class, just set it out and push the button to start it, then push the button again to stop it when class is over. At the end of the day, upload the recordings to your computer and email them to our office, and we'll type the notes out for you and email them back."

"You can do all that?"

"Of course we can. We want to make sure that you're learning the best way you can. Not everyone can just go to class and do homework and be fine. I couldn't when I was in school. More of your fellow classmates than you'd guess can't either."

"So what do I need to do?" She's waiting for the other shoe to drop. This all sounds too good to be true. "Does this cost a lot of money? I don't have any money, and my parents won't pay for it." He's going to tell her that he's sorry but can't help now, she knows it.

"It won't cost you a penny. This is a service that the school provides. The only thing you need to do is register with us, which just means filling out this sheet of paper. We'll handle everything else for you. Okay?"

Brittany nods and fills out the paper, signing her name. Before she hands it back, she has one more question. "You guys won't tell my parents, will you? I think they'd be mad at me."

Patrick has to stop himself from frowning. Poor kid. "No. Definitely not. Everything you say here is completely confidential, except the information that you've just signed, which we will give to your professors. Other than that, I promise everything is between us. I'm sorry that you've had to struggle with this your whole life, Brittany, but we're going to try and make it easier now, okay?"

Brittany nods and tries not to cry. She has struggled. She'd missed dance so many times, she almost wasn't allowed to go to school away from home, and she worries every single day about losing her scholarship and having to switch schools and losing Santana. The idea that it will be easier, even just a little bit, makes her feel like she can finally breathe. She leaves the office after a handshake from Patrick, where she has to hold back her urge to hug him. They schedule a meeting for the first day of classes after Christmas break in order to prepare for the new semester, and for the first time in her life, school doesn't feel so overwhelming. She can't wait to tell Santana.