Fic: Empire State of Mind - Chapter 7: Two Become One - Part 2
Part 1
She lay, so snug and comfortable in the bed feeling completely content and relaxed. Her breathing was easy, while her eyes were heavy with the sleep that had consumed her. Brittany let out a happy sigh as she turned onto her side and took in the dishevelled appearance of the nude brunette beside her. Santana remained sleeping, looking so peaceful and innocent as if she had never been troubled. Her face was a picture of perfection. Her skin was flawless, her full lips in a slight pout and her hair was tousled, framing her features. Brittany's heart skipped a beat; it was her birthday and her present, although already unwrapped, was the most incredible thing she could have ever wished for. Santana lay on her side, facing Brittany, whose eyes lazily traced the contours of the Latina's body. Starting from Santana's strong defined shoulder. The chef's arm came to rest protectively across her chest, hand under the pillow her head was resting upon, the other lost underneath her body. The line continued along the brunette's side, a slight dip at the waist, where the bed sheet pooled, clinging to her almost like a second skin. Brittany continued her visual assault on the brunette. The rise at Santana's hip caused a stirring deep within the blonde.
Brittany crawled across the small space that separated the lovers. Her lips were drawn naturally to Santana's. Puckering up, she placed a languid, loving kiss to the Latina's soft awaiting lips - the pout an instant invitation to which Brittany obliged. She stroked her fingers over the smooth skin of Santana's slightly blushed cheeks, smiling adoringly as the beauty began to stir. A small frown formed a crease between the Latina's brows as she started to regain consciousness. Brittany kissed her again, before moving her lips higher, kissing away the lines spoiling the brunette's features. The frown quickly turned into a knowing smile, realisation and memories of the previous night flooding back for Santana. Eventually her eyes fluttered open, meeting the expectant blue orbs of her bed mate.
"Morning beautiful." Brittany hummed, her fingers drawing patterns over Santana's skin, "Are you ok?"
"Mmmhmm." Santana drawled, not quite trusting her voice. "More than ok." she stated, her voice husky from a combination of sleep and lustful cries. She was content to just lay there, gazing at the stunning woman with mussed blonde locks whose fingers were leaving goose bumps in their wake. "Happy birthday Brittany." Santana added sweetly. Brittany grinned and leaned in for another chaste kiss, this time letting her lips linger a little longer. She pulled back, barely an inch away, her eyes heavy. As she spoke, her voice was thick, laced with wanton lust.
"You said that already." her mind flashing back to the previous moment Santana had offered the birthday wishes.
"It's your birthday all day." the Latina justified with a smirk before latching herself back onto Brittany's soft pink lips. "How about a special breakfast?" she asked earning a sly, devilish grin from the blonde. Santana rolled her eyes at her girlfriend's suggestive smirk. "You didn't get enough last night?"
"Never," chimed the dancer, licking her lips - mouth suddenly dry, "I could never have enough of you." the magnetism between them pulled them closer. Just as eyes closed and lips met, a cell phone vibrated loudly, the buzzing in the silent room catching the attention of the two women. "Is that yours or mine?" Brittany asked, mumbling against Santana's lips. The Latina shrugged, she had other things on her mind. "I guess it can wait." the brunette smiled, satisfied with Brittany's answer. The blonde's sudden gasp wrenched Santana from her stupor. Her puckered lips quickly turned into a pout as the dancer jumped out of the bed and began flinging items of clothing into the air. Santana watched from the bed with bemusement. "Shit, shit, shit." came the out of character mantra from the birthday girl.
"B, what is it?" Santana asked as she sat up, the bed sheet dropped, exposing more of her taut stomach. Brittany had to shake her head to regain concentration, causing the brunette to grin with pride at the effect she had on the other woman.
"I'm late." the dancer replied scavenging for her underwear. "I have to meet my parents for Mass." she said, still scurrying around on the hard wood floor. "You need a rug or something in here San." as she got to her feet, Brittany rubbed at her sore knees. "I can't wear this." she held up the black evening dress in one hand, a look of pure deflation upon her features. Before she knew it, strong arms had wrapped her in a tight hug.
"Hey." Santana said soothingly near her ear, "you can wear something of mine." Brittany leaned back slightly and frowned. "We'll find something, don't worry." Santana cooed. She placed a small kiss on the blonde's nose.
"You're so hot naked." Brittany stated, enjoying the feel of Santana's skin against hers. "I mean you're like hot all the time, but you're like super hot right now." The blonde pulled away with sadness. "If we had more time I'd totally do you right now."
"And I would totally let you." Santana winked mischievously as she turned and sauntered over to her wardrobe, an added swagger to her step. Brittany could only watch with heightened lust after her girlfriend as time ticked away.
xx
"I'm sorry . . . Thank you . . . Sorry . . . Thanks . . . Ommpf' Brittany eventually made it into her seat having navigated New York Easter traffic in the back of a cab and a long line of Church goers in the same row as her parents. She was rewarded with a heavy glare from her mother and a raised, questioning eyebrow from her father. Luckily for Brittany, the congregation were half way through the opening hymn. A sigh of relief passed the blonde's lips as she opened her hymn book to the appropriate page.
"We'll talk about this later." Valerie stated with a slight hiss. "Brittany," she started again, with a brief pause, "what on earth are you wearing?" The blonde looked down at her attire. Sure it was beyond her usual style, but she was pretty sure the outfit Santana had chosen for her was presentable, given their size differences. Ray cast an eye over his daughter and shrugged, none the wiser when it came to her garments. She could be wearing pyjamas and he would still believe it to be en vogue. Understanding his daughter's fashion choices never really had to make sense to him.
If Brittany were to be honest, she would never have believed that Santana owned a pair of smart black cropped trousers. The black tank top and black rolled sleeved blazer however were more the chef's style. Santana had explained the pants were a gift from her mother and were a little on the loose side and was happy to finally have found a deserving owner. The blonde was able to wear the black heels she had worn the previous evening. "You look amazing." Santana had stated with awe, trying with all her might not to pounce on her girlfriend. "I love that you're wearing my clothes." she did however manage to steal a languid kiss before the blonde had to shoot off in a hurry. Following an intimate exchange of 'I love yous' they agreed to meet at the restaurant Ray had booked for lunch later on that day.
"You never wear just plain black Brittany." Valerie's hushed voice in her ear swiftly brought the blonde daydreamer back to the present. She smiled. Her mother was right, yet for Santana she had chosen the colour in an attempt at sophistication and sheer seduction. It had worked. Right now, Brittany felt like the luckiest girl in the world and it was only just the beginning.
Xx
The Pierce's were sat at a window table in the Brasserie Ruhlmann restaurant at Rockerfella Plaza, a short walk from St Patrick's Cathedral. Brittany looked around her in wonderment. It was an upmarket restaurant with dark furniture, ornate art deco features and a flare of French influenced cuisine. She smiled to herself, wondering what Santana would think of the establishment, if she would appreciate the food as much as Brittany hoped. Several times the two women had eaten out at various restaurants and bistros in the city. This was a little more expensive than what they were used to, but Ray had chosen the venue for Brittany's birthday lunch as she could not decide. Ray and Valerie were waiting patiently for the dancer's guest to arrive whilst Brittany tapped her foot in anticipation, as her eyes were trained on the door. "Brittany honey, you haven't told us anything about your new friend." Valerie stated with a warm friendly smile, having given Brittany a swift dressing down on the walk to the restaurant for her earlier lateness. Brittany beamed at the sheer thought of her girlfriend.
"She's my best friend." the blonde answered without hesitation.
"That's great honey, I'm so pleased you've managed to find a special friend in New York." Valerie replied, looking over the top of her reading glasses, to which Brittany stifled a laugh at the implication of her mother's words, "Does she at least have a name?"
"Santana." Brittany breathed, as the object of the conversation stepped over the threshold, her eyes scanning the busy restaurant. Her lips upturned into a gleaming smile as she spotted the Pierce's and made her way over to the table.
"Is that . . ." Ray began, slightly star struck.
"The chef from that restaurant." Valerie concluded with an approving nod as she and her husband stood to greet the brunette; a round of hand shaking and polite greetings commenced. Brittany's parents were more than welcoming. Their friendly nature matched Brittany's and it immediately put the chef at ease. Santana turned her attention to the birthday girl who was waiting patiently for her own greeting. Brittany threw her arms tightly around the Latina and whispered in her ear.
"I missed you." making sure she was out of earshot of her parents. They were busy sitting themselves back down at the table.
"Me too." Santana returned in a hushed tone. Pulling apart Santana appraised the blonde, a knowing smile tugging at her lips, proud that her girl was wearing her clothes. "Happy Birthday Britt." she said, as if for the first time that day.
"Thanks Santana." Brittany took in the Latina's appearance fully. She wore a pair of grey skinny pants, with laced-up boots, a light silk cap-sleeved top and a cardigan hung loosely in her hand. It was chic. It was hot. "You look . . ." the blonde paused for words as she followed the light bouncing down the cascading raven locks. "Gor - rrrreat." she corrected, aware of her parents' presence.
"Brittany, I thought you grew out of your Tony the Tiger phase last year." her father stated, almost disparagingly as he lifted his eyes from the menu. Santana's eyes widened questioningly, an amused glint sparking life into the brown orbs. Stealing a glance at Ray, the brunette realised the man was serious.
"It was my favourite cereal." she announced with a nonchalant shrug. If it was possible, Santana's smile grew that much wider; her love for the blonde continued to grow, with every word, every touch and everything just Brittany. The two girls sat down beside one another, both finding it increasingly difficult to keep their hands to themselves. It was going to be a very long meal indeed.
"So Santana." Ray began, he turned to his wife and giggled, "I still can't get used to calling her that." he returned his attention to the bemused brunette in front of him, "How long have you lived in the City?" Santana smiled as she placed down her fork and waited to swallow the food in her mouth before talking.
"Well Sir, I moved here after Thanksgiving last year." she stated. She picked up the glass of red from the table and took a sip, having a feeling this conversation was about to get personal.
"So you're new to the City like our Britty?" Valerie said."Oh that rhymes." she giggled, earning raised eyebrows from Santana. "It's good that you two have become friends, it's a daunting place."
"Where are you from Santana?" Ray asked. Santana glanced at the blonde beside her who was offering an apologetic grimace. The brunette flashed a reassuring smile and patted the blonde's thigh quickly and proceeded to pick up her fork once again.
"Los Angeles, born and raised." she stated. "I moved back there after my apprenticeship and training in Europe." Valerie's head shot up at the mention of the other continent.
"Where in Europe?" Ray asked with a renewed interest. "Brittany went to drama school in London and made it in the West End." he beamed with pride.
"Yes Sir, you must be so proud of her. She's an amazing performer." Santana spoke so lovingly, her eyes wandering sideways to witness the blush creep up the dancer's neck and over her cheeks. Turning her attention back to Ray, she proceeded to answer his question. "I trained in Paris for several years and then moved over to London for a year before heading back to Los Angeles. My parents are there and an opportunity to advance my career arose. Plus if I'm honest, I was a little home sick." she offered with an embarrassed grin. It elicited a chorus of 'aw's' from Brittany and her mother. Ray laughed at his girls, some things never changed.
"Oh Brittany, sweetheart, that reminds me." Valerie began, "I bumped into Daniel last week, he's single again." she stated with an obvious undercurrent in her tone. Santana glanced at Brittany awaiting explanation.
"He was my boyfriend in High School." she said, feeling no need to elaborate further.
"He'll be on a business trip here in New York next month, I gave him your address and your number, told him to get in touch." the elder Pierce announced triumphantly.
"What?" Brittany burst, "Mom, why?" she huffed with exasperation. Santana was unsure where to look, how to react. She took another sip of her wine feeling very uncomfortable.
"He's single, you're single. You've both grown, changed, you never know, he could be the one."
"Mom, how do you know I'm not dating anyone?" the blonde glared at her mother, hoping to anyone who would listen above her mother would not pick up on her hasty question. Brittany's father could feel the tension and interrupted, hoping to defuse the situation.
"Val, dear, I don't think we should be meddling in Brittany's love life like this. She's old enough to make her own decisions." Ray stated with honesty, sensing the unease around the table. The Latina sat motionless, absorbing the words flying about around her.
"Oh come on Ray. They were so in love, destined to be with one another." Brittany sent her father a pleading look of despair.
"Valerie." He warned.
"Ok, ok, just maybe say hi to him, see how things go." she said with a shrug.
"Fine." Brittany seethed through gritted teeth, willing her mother to stop talking. "But I won't be dating him. Ever." Valerie rolled her eyes, knowing how stubborn her daughter could be. The blonde was upset with her mother. What she had with Santana was so incredibly special. Better than anything she had experienced with anyone before. Last night had been the pinnacle and ultimately the promise of what was to come. No one was going to stand in her way of that. She loved Santana completely and while it was new and exciting, she knew it would feel like that with every glance and every touch of the Latina.
"And what about you Santana sweetheart, do you have a boyfriend?" Valerie asked. Her eyes focused on the brunette whose eyes suddenly widened as if she were the older woman's prey.
"Err, no, I don't have a boyfriend." she stated honestly.
"Why not? A pretty, young, talented girl like yourself, I would have thought you would be snapped up." Valerie rambled. Ray sighed, he could see Santana was uncomfortable. Brittany was picking at her food, since his wife had soured the atmosphere considerably.
“Mom!” Brittany exclaimed again.
"Valerie," Ray started, "leave the poor girl alone. It's Brittany's birthday, let's just relax and have fun." he suggested. He was met with an unsure smile from his wife. She nodded in agreement and the four of them finished their meals in silence.
Valerie excused herself from the table, causing it's remaining three occupants to heave a sigh of relief. The tension slowly left their bodies with each step Brittany's mother took. Ray retrieved the napkin from his lap and placed it on the table before taking a sip of his wine. Brittany placed a comforting hand on Santana's thigh under the tablecloth. The brunette picked up the dancer's hand in her own and gave it a gentle squeeze, reassuring the blonde she was coping.
"I'm so sorry San." Brittany apologised profusely.
"Hey, it's ok, I know what mother's can be like." she laughed.
"No." Brittany stated her voice laced with loving tenderness, "You didn't have to hear all that." Brittany's father had watched the whole exchange with interest.
"You have to tell her." Ray said gruffly before clearing his throat. "I know Brittany." The blonde's mouth hung open in disbelief, "The way your eyes light up whenever Santana speaks or when you look at her. I know honey and you know I'm fine with it. I'm so happy you've found someone like Santana who makes you so obviously happy." Ray said. He glanced at Santana. Her eyes were downcast and he could make out a blush across her features. He could also tell she bore a telling grin. Brittany sat beside her, matching grin, her hand obviously clasped around Santana's in the brunette's lap.
"I'm sorry I didn't tell you daddy," Brittany began, "it's so new and we thought it would be easier to just introduce Santana as my friend today." she explained, "I don't think I can tell Mom today. It's my birthday. I'm with the people I love the most and I'm so happy right now. I don't want to spoil that." Brittany said, Santana nodded her head in agreement, somewhat relieved she may be avoiding the confrontation with Valerie today after all. Besides, she agreed with Brittany and she'll be damned if anyone spoiled her girl's big day.
"You will have to tell her at some point honey." Ray explained. "I understand how you feel about today, it's your day." he said. He loved and cared for his daughter deeply and his whole life strived to making her happy. He had been unfortunate in not having his parents around when he was growing up and doted on Brittany. He could tell Santana would be good for her. In the little time they had spent together he was impressed by her manors and her kindness. Although, he would keep an eye on her, for his daughter's sake, but he could tell Santana needed Brittany as much as his daughter needed her. There were also too many coincidences in their pasts to ignore, feeling like a greater force had brought them together.
"I need to work on my game face. I'm obviously not as great at acting as everyone says." Brittany shrugged with a smirk.
"I think Santana could easily compete." Ray joked, earning a laugh from the brunette. "You wear your heart on your sleeve sweetheart and that's one of the things I love most about you."
"Me too." the chef stated shyly, just above a whisper. Brittany squeezed Santana's hand impossibly tight, unable to contain her excitement. The brunette's eyes bulged and quickly filled with pain, a sight that Brittany was now all too familiar with. Dropping her clutch on the brunette, Brittany began to panic in true apologetic Brittany style.
"Oh babe, I'm so so sorry." she winced as she said it, feeling the pain herself. She lovingly ran a soothing hand over the brunette's back, urging the brief pain to dissipate. "Again." she added shyly.
"It's ok." Santana squeaked.
"What happened?" Ray asked with obvious concern, his brow creased with intrigue.
"San cut her hand last week and it's not healed properly yet and I keep forgetting." Brittany explained.
"I think it's more a case of getting carried away than forgetting B." Santana joked causing the dancer to blush in the presence of her father.
"What are you guys laughing at?" Valerie asked as she plonked herself back in her seat with a satisfied sigh. Three pairs of eyes looked questioningly at one another. Brittany cleared her throat and took a deep breath.
"Nothing Mom. You want dessert?"
She lay, so snug and comfortable in the bed feeling completely content and relaxed. Her breathing was easy, while her eyes were heavy with the sleep that had consumed her. Brittany let out a happy sigh as she turned onto her side and took in the dishevelled appearance of the nude brunette beside her. Santana remained sleeping, looking so peaceful and innocent as if she had never been troubled. Her face was a picture of perfection. Her skin was flawless, her full lips in a slight pout and her hair was tousled, framing her features. Brittany's heart skipped a beat; it was her birthday and her present, although already unwrapped, was the most incredible thing she could have ever wished for. Santana lay on her side, facing Brittany, whose eyes lazily traced the contours of the Latina's body. Starting from Santana's strong defined shoulder. The chef's arm came to rest protectively across her chest, hand under the pillow her head was resting upon, the other lost underneath her body. The line continued along the brunette's side, a slight dip at the waist, where the bed sheet pooled, clinging to her almost like a second skin. Brittany continued her visual assault on the brunette. The rise at Santana's hip caused a stirring deep within the blonde.
Brittany crawled across the small space that separated the lovers. Her lips were drawn naturally to Santana's. Puckering up, she placed a languid, loving kiss to the Latina's soft awaiting lips - the pout an instant invitation to which Brittany obliged. She stroked her fingers over the smooth skin of Santana's slightly blushed cheeks, smiling adoringly as the beauty began to stir. A small frown formed a crease between the Latina's brows as she started to regain consciousness. Brittany kissed her again, before moving her lips higher, kissing away the lines spoiling the brunette's features. The frown quickly turned into a knowing smile, realisation and memories of the previous night flooding back for Santana. Eventually her eyes fluttered open, meeting the expectant blue orbs of her bed mate.
"Morning beautiful." Brittany hummed, her fingers drawing patterns over Santana's skin, "Are you ok?"
"Mmmhmm." Santana drawled, not quite trusting her voice. "More than ok." she stated, her voice husky from a combination of sleep and lustful cries. She was content to just lay there, gazing at the stunning woman with mussed blonde locks whose fingers were leaving goose bumps in their wake. "Happy birthday Brittany." Santana added sweetly. Brittany grinned and leaned in for another chaste kiss, this time letting her lips linger a little longer. She pulled back, barely an inch away, her eyes heavy. As she spoke, her voice was thick, laced with wanton lust.
"You said that already." her mind flashing back to the previous moment Santana had offered the birthday wishes.
"It's your birthday all day." the Latina justified with a smirk before latching herself back onto Brittany's soft pink lips. "How about a special breakfast?" she asked earning a sly, devilish grin from the blonde. Santana rolled her eyes at her girlfriend's suggestive smirk. "You didn't get enough last night?"
"Never," chimed the dancer, licking her lips - mouth suddenly dry, "I could never have enough of you." the magnetism between them pulled them closer. Just as eyes closed and lips met, a cell phone vibrated loudly, the buzzing in the silent room catching the attention of the two women. "Is that yours or mine?" Brittany asked, mumbling against Santana's lips. The Latina shrugged, she had other things on her mind. "I guess it can wait." the brunette smiled, satisfied with Brittany's answer. The blonde's sudden gasp wrenched Santana from her stupor. Her puckered lips quickly turned into a pout as the dancer jumped out of the bed and began flinging items of clothing into the air. Santana watched from the bed with bemusement. "Shit, shit, shit." came the out of character mantra from the birthday girl.
"B, what is it?" Santana asked as she sat up, the bed sheet dropped, exposing more of her taut stomach. Brittany had to shake her head to regain concentration, causing the brunette to grin with pride at the effect she had on the other woman.
"I'm late." the dancer replied scavenging for her underwear. "I have to meet my parents for Mass." she said, still scurrying around on the hard wood floor. "You need a rug or something in here San." as she got to her feet, Brittany rubbed at her sore knees. "I can't wear this." she held up the black evening dress in one hand, a look of pure deflation upon her features. Before she knew it, strong arms had wrapped her in a tight hug.
"Hey." Santana said soothingly near her ear, "you can wear something of mine." Brittany leaned back slightly and frowned. "We'll find something, don't worry." Santana cooed. She placed a small kiss on the blonde's nose.
"You're so hot naked." Brittany stated, enjoying the feel of Santana's skin against hers. "I mean you're like hot all the time, but you're like super hot right now." The blonde pulled away with sadness. "If we had more time I'd totally do you right now."
"And I would totally let you." Santana winked mischievously as she turned and sauntered over to her wardrobe, an added swagger to her step. Brittany could only watch with heightened lust after her girlfriend as time ticked away.
xx
"I'm sorry . . . Thank you . . . Sorry . . . Thanks . . . Ommpf' Brittany eventually made it into her seat having navigated New York Easter traffic in the back of a cab and a long line of Church goers in the same row as her parents. She was rewarded with a heavy glare from her mother and a raised, questioning eyebrow from her father. Luckily for Brittany, the congregation were half way through the opening hymn. A sigh of relief passed the blonde's lips as she opened her hymn book to the appropriate page.
"We'll talk about this later." Valerie stated with a slight hiss. "Brittany," she started again, with a brief pause, "what on earth are you wearing?" The blonde looked down at her attire. Sure it was beyond her usual style, but she was pretty sure the outfit Santana had chosen for her was presentable, given their size differences. Ray cast an eye over his daughter and shrugged, none the wiser when it came to her garments. She could be wearing pyjamas and he would still believe it to be en vogue. Understanding his daughter's fashion choices never really had to make sense to him.
If Brittany were to be honest, she would never have believed that Santana owned a pair of smart black cropped trousers. The black tank top and black rolled sleeved blazer however were more the chef's style. Santana had explained the pants were a gift from her mother and were a little on the loose side and was happy to finally have found a deserving owner. The blonde was able to wear the black heels she had worn the previous evening. "You look amazing." Santana had stated with awe, trying with all her might not to pounce on her girlfriend. "I love that you're wearing my clothes." she did however manage to steal a languid kiss before the blonde had to shoot off in a hurry. Following an intimate exchange of 'I love yous' they agreed to meet at the restaurant Ray had booked for lunch later on that day.
"You never wear just plain black Brittany." Valerie's hushed voice in her ear swiftly brought the blonde daydreamer back to the present. She smiled. Her mother was right, yet for Santana she had chosen the colour in an attempt at sophistication and sheer seduction. It had worked. Right now, Brittany felt like the luckiest girl in the world and it was only just the beginning.
Xx
The Pierce's were sat at a window table in the Brasserie Ruhlmann restaurant at Rockerfella Plaza, a short walk from St Patrick's Cathedral. Brittany looked around her in wonderment. It was an upmarket restaurant with dark furniture, ornate art deco features and a flare of French influenced cuisine. She smiled to herself, wondering what Santana would think of the establishment, if she would appreciate the food as much as Brittany hoped. Several times the two women had eaten out at various restaurants and bistros in the city. This was a little more expensive than what they were used to, but Ray had chosen the venue for Brittany's birthday lunch as she could not decide. Ray and Valerie were waiting patiently for the dancer's guest to arrive whilst Brittany tapped her foot in anticipation, as her eyes were trained on the door. "Brittany honey, you haven't told us anything about your new friend." Valerie stated with a warm friendly smile, having given Brittany a swift dressing down on the walk to the restaurant for her earlier lateness. Brittany beamed at the sheer thought of her girlfriend.
"She's my best friend." the blonde answered without hesitation.
"That's great honey, I'm so pleased you've managed to find a special friend in New York." Valerie replied, looking over the top of her reading glasses, to which Brittany stifled a laugh at the implication of her mother's words, "Does she at least have a name?"
"Santana." Brittany breathed, as the object of the conversation stepped over the threshold, her eyes scanning the busy restaurant. Her lips upturned into a gleaming smile as she spotted the Pierce's and made her way over to the table.
"Is that . . ." Ray began, slightly star struck.
"The chef from that restaurant." Valerie concluded with an approving nod as she and her husband stood to greet the brunette; a round of hand shaking and polite greetings commenced. Brittany's parents were more than welcoming. Their friendly nature matched Brittany's and it immediately put the chef at ease. Santana turned her attention to the birthday girl who was waiting patiently for her own greeting. Brittany threw her arms tightly around the Latina and whispered in her ear.
"I missed you." making sure she was out of earshot of her parents. They were busy sitting themselves back down at the table.
"Me too." Santana returned in a hushed tone. Pulling apart Santana appraised the blonde, a knowing smile tugging at her lips, proud that her girl was wearing her clothes. "Happy Birthday Britt." she said, as if for the first time that day.
"Thanks Santana." Brittany took in the Latina's appearance fully. She wore a pair of grey skinny pants, with laced-up boots, a light silk cap-sleeved top and a cardigan hung loosely in her hand. It was chic. It was hot. "You look . . ." the blonde paused for words as she followed the light bouncing down the cascading raven locks. "Gor - rrrreat." she corrected, aware of her parents' presence.
"Brittany, I thought you grew out of your Tony the Tiger phase last year." her father stated, almost disparagingly as he lifted his eyes from the menu. Santana's eyes widened questioningly, an amused glint sparking life into the brown orbs. Stealing a glance at Ray, the brunette realised the man was serious.
"It was my favourite cereal." she announced with a nonchalant shrug. If it was possible, Santana's smile grew that much wider; her love for the blonde continued to grow, with every word, every touch and everything just Brittany. The two girls sat down beside one another, both finding it increasingly difficult to keep their hands to themselves. It was going to be a very long meal indeed.
"So Santana." Ray began, he turned to his wife and giggled, "I still can't get used to calling her that." he returned his attention to the bemused brunette in front of him, "How long have you lived in the City?" Santana smiled as she placed down her fork and waited to swallow the food in her mouth before talking.
"Well Sir, I moved here after Thanksgiving last year." she stated. She picked up the glass of red from the table and took a sip, having a feeling this conversation was about to get personal.
"So you're new to the City like our Britty?" Valerie said."Oh that rhymes." she giggled, earning raised eyebrows from Santana. "It's good that you two have become friends, it's a daunting place."
"Where are you from Santana?" Ray asked. Santana glanced at the blonde beside her who was offering an apologetic grimace. The brunette flashed a reassuring smile and patted the blonde's thigh quickly and proceeded to pick up her fork once again.
"Los Angeles, born and raised." she stated. "I moved back there after my apprenticeship and training in Europe." Valerie's head shot up at the mention of the other continent.
"Where in Europe?" Ray asked with a renewed interest. "Brittany went to drama school in London and made it in the West End." he beamed with pride.
"Yes Sir, you must be so proud of her. She's an amazing performer." Santana spoke so lovingly, her eyes wandering sideways to witness the blush creep up the dancer's neck and over her cheeks. Turning her attention back to Ray, she proceeded to answer his question. "I trained in Paris for several years and then moved over to London for a year before heading back to Los Angeles. My parents are there and an opportunity to advance my career arose. Plus if I'm honest, I was a little home sick." she offered with an embarrassed grin. It elicited a chorus of 'aw's' from Brittany and her mother. Ray laughed at his girls, some things never changed.
"Oh Brittany, sweetheart, that reminds me." Valerie began, "I bumped into Daniel last week, he's single again." she stated with an obvious undercurrent in her tone. Santana glanced at Brittany awaiting explanation.
"He was my boyfriend in High School." she said, feeling no need to elaborate further.
"He'll be on a business trip here in New York next month, I gave him your address and your number, told him to get in touch." the elder Pierce announced triumphantly.
"What?" Brittany burst, "Mom, why?" she huffed with exasperation. Santana was unsure where to look, how to react. She took another sip of her wine feeling very uncomfortable.
"He's single, you're single. You've both grown, changed, you never know, he could be the one."
"Mom, how do you know I'm not dating anyone?" the blonde glared at her mother, hoping to anyone who would listen above her mother would not pick up on her hasty question. Brittany's father could feel the tension and interrupted, hoping to defuse the situation.
"Val, dear, I don't think we should be meddling in Brittany's love life like this. She's old enough to make her own decisions." Ray stated with honesty, sensing the unease around the table. The Latina sat motionless, absorbing the words flying about around her.
"Oh come on Ray. They were so in love, destined to be with one another." Brittany sent her father a pleading look of despair.
"Valerie." He warned.
"Ok, ok, just maybe say hi to him, see how things go." she said with a shrug.
"Fine." Brittany seethed through gritted teeth, willing her mother to stop talking. "But I won't be dating him. Ever." Valerie rolled her eyes, knowing how stubborn her daughter could be. The blonde was upset with her mother. What she had with Santana was so incredibly special. Better than anything she had experienced with anyone before. Last night had been the pinnacle and ultimately the promise of what was to come. No one was going to stand in her way of that. She loved Santana completely and while it was new and exciting, she knew it would feel like that with every glance and every touch of the Latina.
"And what about you Santana sweetheart, do you have a boyfriend?" Valerie asked. Her eyes focused on the brunette whose eyes suddenly widened as if she were the older woman's prey.
"Err, no, I don't have a boyfriend." she stated honestly.
"Why not? A pretty, young, talented girl like yourself, I would have thought you would be snapped up." Valerie rambled. Ray sighed, he could see Santana was uncomfortable. Brittany was picking at her food, since his wife had soured the atmosphere considerably.
“Mom!” Brittany exclaimed again.
"Valerie," Ray started, "leave the poor girl alone. It's Brittany's birthday, let's just relax and have fun." he suggested. He was met with an unsure smile from his wife. She nodded in agreement and the four of them finished their meals in silence.
Valerie excused herself from the table, causing it's remaining three occupants to heave a sigh of relief. The tension slowly left their bodies with each step Brittany's mother took. Ray retrieved the napkin from his lap and placed it on the table before taking a sip of his wine. Brittany placed a comforting hand on Santana's thigh under the tablecloth. The brunette picked up the dancer's hand in her own and gave it a gentle squeeze, reassuring the blonde she was coping.
"I'm so sorry San." Brittany apologised profusely.
"Hey, it's ok, I know what mother's can be like." she laughed.
"No." Brittany stated her voice laced with loving tenderness, "You didn't have to hear all that." Brittany's father had watched the whole exchange with interest.
"You have to tell her." Ray said gruffly before clearing his throat. "I know Brittany." The blonde's mouth hung open in disbelief, "The way your eyes light up whenever Santana speaks or when you look at her. I know honey and you know I'm fine with it. I'm so happy you've found someone like Santana who makes you so obviously happy." Ray said. He glanced at Santana. Her eyes were downcast and he could make out a blush across her features. He could also tell she bore a telling grin. Brittany sat beside her, matching grin, her hand obviously clasped around Santana's in the brunette's lap.
"I'm sorry I didn't tell you daddy," Brittany began, "it's so new and we thought it would be easier to just introduce Santana as my friend today." she explained, "I don't think I can tell Mom today. It's my birthday. I'm with the people I love the most and I'm so happy right now. I don't want to spoil that." Brittany said, Santana nodded her head in agreement, somewhat relieved she may be avoiding the confrontation with Valerie today after all. Besides, she agreed with Brittany and she'll be damned if anyone spoiled her girl's big day.
"You will have to tell her at some point honey." Ray explained. "I understand how you feel about today, it's your day." he said. He loved and cared for his daughter deeply and his whole life strived to making her happy. He had been unfortunate in not having his parents around when he was growing up and doted on Brittany. He could tell Santana would be good for her. In the little time they had spent together he was impressed by her manors and her kindness. Although, he would keep an eye on her, for his daughter's sake, but he could tell Santana needed Brittany as much as his daughter needed her. There were also too many coincidences in their pasts to ignore, feeling like a greater force had brought them together.
"I need to work on my game face. I'm obviously not as great at acting as everyone says." Brittany shrugged with a smirk.
"I think Santana could easily compete." Ray joked, earning a laugh from the brunette. "You wear your heart on your sleeve sweetheart and that's one of the things I love most about you."
"Me too." the chef stated shyly, just above a whisper. Brittany squeezed Santana's hand impossibly tight, unable to contain her excitement. The brunette's eyes bulged and quickly filled with pain, a sight that Brittany was now all too familiar with. Dropping her clutch on the brunette, Brittany began to panic in true apologetic Brittany style.
"Oh babe, I'm so so sorry." she winced as she said it, feeling the pain herself. She lovingly ran a soothing hand over the brunette's back, urging the brief pain to dissipate. "Again." she added shyly.
"It's ok." Santana squeaked.
"What happened?" Ray asked with obvious concern, his brow creased with intrigue.
"San cut her hand last week and it's not healed properly yet and I keep forgetting." Brittany explained.
"I think it's more a case of getting carried away than forgetting B." Santana joked causing the dancer to blush in the presence of her father.
"What are you guys laughing at?" Valerie asked as she plonked herself back in her seat with a satisfied sigh. Three pairs of eyes looked questioningly at one another. Brittany cleared her throat and took a deep breath.
"Nothing Mom. You want dessert?"