fic: Quite the Precedent
Title: Quite the Precedent
Author: slacker_d
Pairing/Characters: Rachel/Santana, Brittany, Quinn, Puck
Rating: PG
Summary: It's Santana's birthday.
Disclaimer: Not mine.
Word Count: ~4,110
A/N: This is version 2.0. Thanks to silviafan1986 for the heads up that Quinn already came out to mom.
2nd A/N: Unbeta’ed, so all mistakes are mine.
series masterlist
With all the chaos of the group prank, her suspension and then the copycat prankster, Rachel's barely been able to think about Santana's birthday. This is particularly unfortunately since Rachel has no idea what her girlfriend wants. And it's not as if Rachel forgot about Santana's birthday; more like she hadn't realized how close it really is. Still, she has a whole week and a half to figure out what Santana might want to do on her eighteenth birthday.
…
"San?"
"Yeah babe?"
"What are we doing for your birthday?" Rachel asks.
"I don't care," Santana shrugs.
"It's your eighteenth birthday," Rachel says. "We have to do something."
"Why?"
"Because we do," Rachel replies.
Santana sighs. “Well the obvious answer is that we throw a party. But then you have to deal with the aftermath.”
“True,” Rachel agrees.
"Plus, we did that last year," Santana continues.
"Also true."
“You know what’d be awesome?” Santana asks. “Just you and me. We can spend the weekend naked."
"We do that almost every weekend, San," Rachel replies.
"And your point is?"
Rachel shakes her head, but doesn't reply.
"Please tell me you're not pouting," Santana tries, but Rachel stays quiet.
"Here's what we're going to do for your birthday," Rachel says eventually.
"Excuse me?" Santana chuckles. "Shouldn't I get to decide that?"
"Well considering that I did use your input and am now making a decision based off your initial answer," Rachel replies. "I would say that you did get to decide. Just indirectly."
Santana laughs. "All right babe. Let's hear your idea."
"So dad's boss has this amazing cabin that he sometimes lets dad and daddy use," Rachel explains. "I bet if I asked, my dad would get permission for us to use it."
"A cabin, babe?" Santana is skeptical. "I'm not really a fan of camping."
"And you assume I am? Have you met me?" Rachel retorts. "Trust me. It's not really a cabin as much as it is a ridiculously expensive second house set on a lake."
"Oh. Well, when you put it that way..."
"There's a Jacuzzi..."
"All right, you've sold me," Santana says.
"Excellent," Rachel says. "Now we just have to talk to your folks before I call dad, don't you think?"
"Why? I already spend all weekend over here, anyway," Santana replies.
"San."
"Fine," Santana huffs. "I'll ask them."
…
"I'm thinking of visiting Alyson this weekend," Quinn says.
"You're going to drive to Pittsburgh all by yourself?" Brittany questions.
"Akron actually," Quinn answers. "It's about half way in between."
"And your mom is going to let you?" Santana asks.
"She said she would after I introduced Alyson to her," Quinn replies.
"If she says no," Brittany says. "We can go with you next weekend, Quinn."
Santana sighs. "We probably could."
"You think your parents would let you go again?" Quinn asks.
Santana shrugs. "I'll just have Rach ask. She's their favorite."
Brittany giggles.
…
When her parents ask her about her birthday, Santana's a bit surprised. It's been a few years since they've asked her what she wants to do for her birthday. Before dating Rachel, Santana was a bit of a spoiled brat, so her parents usually just gave her cash and left her to her own devices. Rachel's influence on all of them has never been more obvious to Santana. Secure in this knowledge, Santana explains what she'd like to do for her birthday. Her parents don't immediately react and so Santana's confidence falters slightly as she finishes. Perhaps she's relying too much on her parents' love of Rachel and the changes she's brought forth in Santana.
"That wasn't what we were expecting," her dad tells her.
"Oh. Okay."
"It's not a bad thing, dear," her mom adds. "Just... unexpected."
"Okay," Santana replies, slowly. "And that means?"
"Your mom and I need to discuss it first," her dad answers.
Santana nods and drops the subject, hoping her mature response will work in her favor.
…
"What are we doing next weekend?" Santana asks Rachel later that night.
"Nothing specific that I'm aware of," Rachel replies. "Though I have to wonder why you asked since we're celebrating your birthday this weekend. Why are you already worried about next weekend?"
"Well, Q wants go visit Alyson by herself this weekend," Santana explains. "But just in case her mom says no, B offered for us to go with next weekend. Like last time."
"Oh."
"Oh?"
"Are you sure that your parents would give you permission again?"
"I have no idea," Santana replies. "But I figure if you ask them, then they will."
"You know your dad just enjoys teasing you, right?"
"I know he does," Santana says. "But I also still think that you're their favorite."
"They like me for you Santana," Rachel replies. "I mean, I believe they like me, but I also believe that they like the person you're becoming when we're together. Not to sound too arrogant."
"No," Santana says. "That's the normal amount of Rachel Berry arrogance I expect."
"Ha ha."
"So you're cool going up to Pittsburgh next weekend, if need be?"
"I suppose another road trip might be fun," Rachel agrees.
"Cool."
…
Despite the optimism she has when talking with Santana, Rachel really isn't certain that her dad will agree. Even though her dad's boss loves him and by extension, her, Rachel's still not sure that her dad would actually want to help create a situation that allows her and Santana to be alone all weekend in comfort.
Thankfully, he agrees. He says it's only because he thinks Michael is over reacting to the relationship. "And I like the confidence she's helped instill in you." He also doesn't ask her to keep it a secret; another surprise.
She doesn't get a confirmation text until late that night, but her dad tells her that his boss, Jamie is fine with it and will messenger over the key the next day.
…
Quinn is feeling particularly anti social today, so she decides to eat lunch in the choir room. She knows that she runs the possibility of running into Rachel or worse, Mr. Schue, is high, but she decides to risk it because she just can't handle the lunch room today.
She's surprised to find Rachel and Brittany inside, quietly eating. Quinn looks around, but doesn't see Santana anywhere.
"She's talking to Coach," Brittany answers.
"Oh," Quinn replies sitting next to Brittany.
"I'm glad you're here Quinn," Rachel says. "As there was something I was hoping to discuss with you at one point."
Quinn sighs. "Berry, I'm really not in the mood for some-"
"I was talking to Santana last night," Rachel interrupts. "And I wanted you to know that if your mother doesn't give you permission or you're too afraid to ask, we can all drive up to Pittsburgh next weekend."
"Oh."
"Roooad Trip, woo hoo," Brittany exclaims.
"You say that like we've never been on a road trip together, Britt," Rachel says.
"It'll be like an adventure," Brittany replies. "And maybe Marisa can come this time?"
"Let's not get ahead of ourselves here, Brittany," Rachel says. "It may not be necessary."
"True," Brittany agrees. "If Quinn can nut up and ask for permission, then it'll be fine."
"Please never say, 'nut up' again, B," Quinn tells her.
"Okay."
"I'm sure if your mom said she'd be okay with it before, Quinn," Rachel says. "I'm sure she'll still agree now."
"I know," Quinn replies. "I guess I'm just worried that now that she's had some time to think about it, she'll change her mind."
"About you visiting Alyson alone?" Brittany questions.
"Yeah," Quinn replies. "And maybe about me being gay."
"You live with her Quinn," Rachel points out. "Do you ever get that sense from her?"
Quinn shakes her head.
"Then I guess I'm not sure I understand why you're so worried," Rachel says.
Quinn shrugs. "I guess I'm just so used to parental disapproval that I still expect it; even if my dad is gone."
"Well, that's certainly something I can understand," Rachel says.
...
“So have your parents decided yet?”
“They’re still thinking,” Santana replies.
“Hey,” Rachel says. “If they say no, then I’ll just have to figure out something else special we can do.”
“Yeah, but-”
“All that matters, San,” Rachel interjects. “Is that we’re together. Right?”
“Yeah.”
...
“I can’t believe that we’re actually saying this,” Clara says, two nights later over dinner. “But if you want to spend the weekend at a cabin with Rachel, just the two of you, we're fine with it."
"As long as we have as much contact info as possible," Tomás adds.
“Seriously?” Santana asks. “Thank you so much, you guys.” Santana eyes them suspiciously. “Did Rachel call you?”
Tomás laughs. “Surprisingly, no. We decided without your girl’s influence.”
“We’re just so proud of you, Santana,” Clara says. “Getting into NYU with such a huge scholarship; that’s incredible.”
“It’s not that big of deal,” Santana mumbles.
“Considering that you wouldn’t even discuss college with us your sophomore year,” Tomás says. “I beg to differ.”
“Oh. Yeah,” Santana says. “I was more pissed off back then.”
“Oh, we know,” Tomás replies.
"Another reason we're agreeing," Clara says.
"Oh. Well. Thanks."
...
“Did you call my parents?” Santana asks.
“About?” Rachel questions.
“You know what,” Santana retorts.
“Obviously I don’t,” Rachel replies. “Or I wouldn’t have asked.”
“They told me at dinner that as long as we give them all sorts of contact information, that they're fine if the two of us go up to that cabin."
“Really? Wow,” Rachel replies. “I guess your request wasn’t as insane as I thought.”
“No,” Santana says. “I knew it was. That’s why I thought you called them. You are their favorite, after all.”
Rachel sighs. "You know that's not true. Just like you know how proud of you they are."
"I know."
"Considering you just got exactly what you wanted for your birthday, you seem rather dour," Rachel says.
"Just thinking..."
"About?"
"Have I told you how glad I am that you're going to be in New York too?" Santana asks.
"Umm..."
"I mean, Brittany is going to California and Q is heading to Chicago and I just... knowing that you and I will be together, kicking ass in New York makes it all seem a bit less daunting, you know?"
"I do know," Rachel says quietly.
There's so much significance and feeling in those three words that Santana wonders if she and Rachel are having the same conversation.
"I should go."
It's an abrupt mood shift, even for Rachel, but Santana doesn't feel ready to question it yet. "All right."
"I've fallen a bit behind and I'm only a week ahead of our homework schedule," Rachel continues. "I'll be much more relaxed this weekend, if I'm caught up again."
Santana chuckles. "Whatever you say, babe. I'll see you tomorrow?"
"You will indeed," Rachel says. "Night San."
Santana stares at her phone for a long moment after Rachel hangs up, but she can't figure out what exactly suddenly shifted for Rachel. Maybe her girlfriend will be more willing to talk about it this weekend.
…
“I can’t believe you’re abandoning me like this.”
“I’m spending one weekend away with my girlfriend on her birthday,” Rachel replies. “I’d hardly call that abandonment.’
“Our senior year is slipping away, bro,” Noah says. “We gotta take advantage.”
“Yeah, well, my days with Santana are numbered as well,” Rachel replies. “So I have to get in as much alone time with her as possible.”
“So you’re really going to do it?” Noah asks, looking upset.
“I don’t think I have a choice, Noah,” Rachel replies. “It can only end badly.”
“Yeah, maybe,” he says. “But for some reason, I feel like you’re over reacting.”
“I’m not so sure that I am,” Rachel says.
“The chances of ever getting her back seem slim to none,” Noah points out.
“Perhaps,” Rachel agrees. “But Rachel Berry has been known to buck the odds before.”
“Yeah, but this seems like a much bigger risk.”
“I know,” Rachel sighs.
“You’re still waffling,” Noah says.
“I can’t be one hundred percent on this,” Rachel tells him. “I always told myself that I would be, but now, I’m not sure that it’s possible.”
“It definitely isn’t,” Noah agrees.
“I still have time,” Rachel says.
“You say that like something’s magically going to happen that will suddenly convince you.”
“Anything’s possible,” Rachel shrugs.
"It's your life, bro."
...
When Brittany insists on coming home with Santana after school Thursday, Santana doesn’t really think much of it. However, the blonde is unusually giddy in the car, even for Brittany.
“Maybe you should cut back on the caffeine, Britt,” Santana tells her as they pull into the driveway.
“I’m just excited, S,” Brittany replies.
“I can see that, B,” Santana says. “I’m just not sure why.”
Brittany just smirks and bounces into the house.
Once they’re settled in Santana’s room, the blonde hands over a large, beautifully wrapped box.
“Um, where did this come from?” Santana asks.
“Me, silly,” Brittany replies. “It’s your birthday present.”
“Thanks,” Santana says. “But that’s not what I meant.”
“Oh.”
“How did this box fit in your not very big backpack?” Santana questions.
Brittany shrugs. “Are you going to open it?”
Santana lets herself get caught up in her best friend’s excitement and begins pulling off the paper. The first thing she sees is a small stack of scratch offs and lottery tickets. She sets them aside as she shoots Brittany a strange look. Under that are a couple boxes of cigarettes as well as several plastic lighters and a small bottle of lighter fluid. Santana shakes her head and sets them aside. Considering what she’s already pulled out, it comes as no surprise to find several porn magazines at the bottom of the box. She chuckles at the Playboy and Playgirl and then just sputters in disbelief at the final one that reads Big and Beardy.
“I thought you’d enjoy the variety,” Brittany grins.
“Not that I don’t appreciate the sentiment, B, because I do,” Santana says. “But since I’m legal, I can just go get all this stuff myself.”
“I know,” Brittany nods. “But I wanted you to know all your options.”
“Thanks.”
”Maybe you can trade the cigarettes for favors,” Brittany suggests.
“You’re thinking of prison, Britt.”
“Oh. Yeah,” Brittany says. “I guess watching women in prison movies before I go to sleep may be a little confusing.”
“Does Marisa know about your horrible late night viewing habits?” Santana asks, amused.
Brittany grins. “She turned bright red when she picked up the box the other day.”
Santana just shakes her head as Brittany grabs Big and Beardy up and begins flipping through it.
…
Dinner is a quiet affair, per usual. Quinn talks about her day and her mom talks about hers. It's not the perfect family dinner that she always pretended existed in her house, but it's a great deal more comfortable than family dinners used to be. What Quinn appreciates the most is that even if she or her mom doesn't have a lot to say, they can still just eat in peace and enjoy each other's presence.
"Any plans for the weekend, Quinnie?"
"Um, well, actually, sort of," Quinn replies.
"Sort of?"
"Well, it's been a while since I've seen Alyson," Quinn explains. "And so I was hoping I could maybe do that this weekend."
"You want to drive to Pittsburgh this weekend?"
"Actually, just Akron," Quinn replies. "It's about halfway in between. And then it's not much of a drive for either of us."
"I see."
"And if she visits here, she has to stay with Rachel Berry... which is..." Not sure how to finish that sentence, Quinn just shakes herself and continues. "And if I drive there, we have to worry about her roommate. So we figured meeting half way in between is the best solution."
"So you're going to drive to Akron and stay in a hotel for a weekend to meet up with your girlfriend?" her mom clarifies.
"Uh, yeah," Quinn replies. "It sounds a bit... sordid when you say it like that. But it's not. Really."
"Well Akron is certainly closer than Pittsburgh," her mom says. "And I did say that I would be fine with you driving to Pittsburgh, so it seems unfair for me to say you can't meet Alyson in Akron."
"So I can go?"
Her mom nods.
"Thanks mom," Quinn grins. "You're the best."
"Did you really think that I would say no?" her mom asks.
"I don't know," Quinn says. "I guess I'm still getting used to... you and me and being honest and all that."
"I'm just glad that you asked me, Quinnie," her mom replies.
"Me too."
…
Wanting to have as much of the weekend as possible, Rachel insists on leaving bright and early Friday morning. Santana grumbles a lot, but agrees since the issue of skipping school, for once, doesn't seem to be a concern for Rachel. She’d like to think that’s her influence. Rachel haughtily denies it and turns up the music.
…
Since Alyson's last class of the day ends at one, Quinn skips the last couple periods so she can leave a bit early and get there around the same time. It's her senior year and she's in the top ten of her class. If she wants to skip a couple classes, she should be able to. The best thing is that because she's a Cheerio, no one's going to question it.
...
After almost five hours, they stop by the grocery store, since it’s on the way there. They buy groceries, Santana arguing about everything Rachel puts in the cart because the indignant huff Rachel gives at Santana's protests is adorable.
As they check out, Santana idly wonders if she can convince Rachel to cook naked. Maybe they could spend the entire weekend naked; she hadn't been joking about that. It is her birthday, after all.
It's not much of a drive to the cabin and before Santana realizes it, they're pulling into the driveway of a property that is definitely not just a simple cabin. It looks bigger than her own house.
They leave their bags by the door and explore. Rachel insists they visit the kitchen first, setting their groceries on the counter and Santana convinces her that they can put things away after a quick tour of the house.
Santana still can't believe the size of this so called cabin.
This guy's house must be a freaking castle.
"Not quite," Rachel replies. "But it's close. I think it has its own zip code."
The first floor has a chef's wet dream of a kitchen, a gigantic TV in front of the comfiest looking couch ever with tons of DVDs shelved nearby.
There are two bedrooms and a bathroom that are quite nice. And then they find the master suite. It is a massive bedroom with a king size bed. The bathroom has a whirlpool bath tub and a large shower where the water rains down from the ceiling.
"Damn..." Santana mutters.
"Not bad, huh?" Rachel smirks.
"This is one of the best ideas you've ever had," Santana replies.
Rachel grins. "Happy birthday, Tiger."
Santana grins back. "Thanks babe."
They explore the basement next even though they have no intention of using it. There's an entertainment room and two more bedrooms, as well as another impressive bathroom.
"This TV is bigger," Santana observes.
"The one upstairs is seventy-five inches, San," Rachel replies. "You don't think that's big enough?"
Santana can only shrug.
...
Rachel refuses to cook naked, but with some pleading from Santana, she does agree to cook nude except for an apron that reads That's How I Roll under a picture of a rolling pin. It's better than the other option: The Grillfather.
"I hope you're not too disappointed, San," Rachel say as she stands at the stove.
"Nope," Santana replies as she chops vegetables. "I still get to stare at your ass, which, as you know, is one of my favorite things to stare at."
"Santana," Rachel huffs.
Santana just grins and returns to her chopping.
...
Santana is in love with the shower. She and Rachel spend over an hour under the spray until the cold water drives them away.
"When you become rich and famous," Santana says as they dry off. "You are buying us one of these."
"Why is it my responsibility?" Rachel questions. "Aren't you going to become a rich and powerful attorney?"
"You'll be famous before I become powerful," Santana replies.
"Flattery? Really?" Rachel asks.
Grinning, Santana shakes her head. "Hey I was serious when I said that we're doing it everywhere we can here. It is my birthday, right?"
Rachel rolls her eyes. "If you don't stop throwing that in my face..."
"You wouldn't."
"Wouldn't I?"
"Fine," Santana says. "But only because you cooked my favorite, nearly nude."
"You're acting like seeing me naked is a novel concept," Rachel retorts.
Santana shrugs. "I've said it before and I'll say it again, you're hot. You should never wear clothes."
"Considering we live in Ohio, that sounds rather cold," Rachel replies.
"I'd keep you warm," Santana smirks.
Rachel rolls her eyes.
…
Santana wakes up on her back with Rachel on top of her and it feels like the perfect moment. Inhaling the faint, familiar scent of Rachel’s shampoo, Santana tries to imprint this moment in her mind. As the end of the school year approaches, Santana knows that she probably won’t have many more moments like this with her girlfriend and there will definitely be fewer moments of alone time. Sure, they’ll have the summer together, but Santana knows that Rachel will still be just as busy with her various classes as well as preparing for New York.
Santana’s heart speeds up a bit. She’s nervous; she can admit that to herself, at least. While she’s excited for her and Rachel to take New York by storm, she’s also well aware of the difficulties that come from transition a high school relationship into college. And while they’ll definitely be in the same city, they’ll both be very busy. But Santana knows that their relationship is up to the challenge. At least she hopes it is. She can’t lose this, she tells herself as she tightens her arms around the still slumbering Rachel.
“I love you,” Santana whispers.
“Love you too,” a still sleeping Rachel mumbles back.
…
They stay in bed later than usual and then they spend the rest of the morning in the Jacuzzi tub. Even if they’re basically doing what they do every weekend together, their surroundings make it seem special. It really is the perfect birthday. It makes Santana feel like a bit of sap, thinking that. But she’s unapologetically in love; if she wants to spend her eighteenth birthday, naked with her super hot girlfriend, then she should be able to.
…
The drive back to Lima is filled with a comfortable silence that still sometimes surprises Santana. It's been a perfect birthday weekend, which also surprises her a bit, even though she knows that being with Rachel and becoming the person she is, who is incredibly different from pre glee Santana, have made it possible to enjoy things that she would have scoffed at years before. It's definitely a good thing; Santana isn't sure that she liked the person she'd been turning into. Especially since that person wouldn't have enjoyed a silent, yet content car ride with Rachel Berry.
Santana's hand finds Rachel's knee and idly traces patterns on it. Rachel keeps her eyes on the road, but smiles.
"Happy?"
"Course, babe," Santana replies. "I got exactly what I wanted for my birthday."
"Good."
"You're spoiling me," Santana continues.
"How so?"
"My last two birthdays have been exactly what I wanted," Santana explains. "You're setting quite a precedent."
"You say that like it's a bad thing," Rachel says.
"Hey, I'm not complaining," Santana replies. "I'm just saying."
"You better not be complaining," Rachel teases. "Or I'll take it all back."
Santana laughs. "How? As far as I know, Artie hasn't built a time machine yet."
"Give him time," Rachel retorts. "I'm sure he'll figure something out."
"Then I look forward to it," Santana says. "I can think of nothing but possibilities.
"God," Rachel groans. "How is it possible for you to make everything sound dirty?"
"Multi talented," Santana answers. "Remember?"
"Oh, I definitely remember," Rachel purrs.
"Good."
"All right then."
Santana sighs. "You don't always have to have the last word, you know."
"Yes I do."
Santana growls, but doesn't really comment.
Author: slacker_d
Pairing/Characters: Rachel/Santana, Brittany, Quinn, Puck
Rating: PG
Summary: It's Santana's birthday.
Disclaimer: Not mine.
Word Count: ~4,110
A/N: This is version 2.0. Thanks to silviafan1986 for the heads up that Quinn already came out to mom.
2nd A/N: Unbeta’ed, so all mistakes are mine.
series masterlist
With all the chaos of the group prank, her suspension and then the copycat prankster, Rachel's barely been able to think about Santana's birthday. This is particularly unfortunately since Rachel has no idea what her girlfriend wants. And it's not as if Rachel forgot about Santana's birthday; more like she hadn't realized how close it really is. Still, she has a whole week and a half to figure out what Santana might want to do on her eighteenth birthday.
…
"San?"
"Yeah babe?"
"What are we doing for your birthday?" Rachel asks.
"I don't care," Santana shrugs.
"It's your eighteenth birthday," Rachel says. "We have to do something."
"Why?"
"Because we do," Rachel replies.
Santana sighs. “Well the obvious answer is that we throw a party. But then you have to deal with the aftermath.”
“True,” Rachel agrees.
"Plus, we did that last year," Santana continues.
"Also true."
“You know what’d be awesome?” Santana asks. “Just you and me. We can spend the weekend naked."
"We do that almost every weekend, San," Rachel replies.
"And your point is?"
Rachel shakes her head, but doesn't reply.
"Please tell me you're not pouting," Santana tries, but Rachel stays quiet.
"Here's what we're going to do for your birthday," Rachel says eventually.
"Excuse me?" Santana chuckles. "Shouldn't I get to decide that?"
"Well considering that I did use your input and am now making a decision based off your initial answer," Rachel replies. "I would say that you did get to decide. Just indirectly."
Santana laughs. "All right babe. Let's hear your idea."
"So dad's boss has this amazing cabin that he sometimes lets dad and daddy use," Rachel explains. "I bet if I asked, my dad would get permission for us to use it."
"A cabin, babe?" Santana is skeptical. "I'm not really a fan of camping."
"And you assume I am? Have you met me?" Rachel retorts. "Trust me. It's not really a cabin as much as it is a ridiculously expensive second house set on a lake."
"Oh. Well, when you put it that way..."
"There's a Jacuzzi..."
"All right, you've sold me," Santana says.
"Excellent," Rachel says. "Now we just have to talk to your folks before I call dad, don't you think?"
"Why? I already spend all weekend over here, anyway," Santana replies.
"San."
"Fine," Santana huffs. "I'll ask them."
…
"I'm thinking of visiting Alyson this weekend," Quinn says.
"You're going to drive to Pittsburgh all by yourself?" Brittany questions.
"Akron actually," Quinn answers. "It's about half way in between."
"And your mom is going to let you?" Santana asks.
"She said she would after I introduced Alyson to her," Quinn replies.
"If she says no," Brittany says. "We can go with you next weekend, Quinn."
Santana sighs. "We probably could."
"You think your parents would let you go again?" Quinn asks.
Santana shrugs. "I'll just have Rach ask. She's their favorite."
Brittany giggles.
…
When her parents ask her about her birthday, Santana's a bit surprised. It's been a few years since they've asked her what she wants to do for her birthday. Before dating Rachel, Santana was a bit of a spoiled brat, so her parents usually just gave her cash and left her to her own devices. Rachel's influence on all of them has never been more obvious to Santana. Secure in this knowledge, Santana explains what she'd like to do for her birthday. Her parents don't immediately react and so Santana's confidence falters slightly as she finishes. Perhaps she's relying too much on her parents' love of Rachel and the changes she's brought forth in Santana.
"That wasn't what we were expecting," her dad tells her.
"Oh. Okay."
"It's not a bad thing, dear," her mom adds. "Just... unexpected."
"Okay," Santana replies, slowly. "And that means?"
"Your mom and I need to discuss it first," her dad answers.
Santana nods and drops the subject, hoping her mature response will work in her favor.
…
"What are we doing next weekend?" Santana asks Rachel later that night.
"Nothing specific that I'm aware of," Rachel replies. "Though I have to wonder why you asked since we're celebrating your birthday this weekend. Why are you already worried about next weekend?"
"Well, Q wants go visit Alyson by herself this weekend," Santana explains. "But just in case her mom says no, B offered for us to go with next weekend. Like last time."
"Oh."
"Oh?"
"Are you sure that your parents would give you permission again?"
"I have no idea," Santana replies. "But I figure if you ask them, then they will."
"You know your dad just enjoys teasing you, right?"
"I know he does," Santana says. "But I also still think that you're their favorite."
"They like me for you Santana," Rachel replies. "I mean, I believe they like me, but I also believe that they like the person you're becoming when we're together. Not to sound too arrogant."
"No," Santana says. "That's the normal amount of Rachel Berry arrogance I expect."
"Ha ha."
"So you're cool going up to Pittsburgh next weekend, if need be?"
"I suppose another road trip might be fun," Rachel agrees.
"Cool."
…
Despite the optimism she has when talking with Santana, Rachel really isn't certain that her dad will agree. Even though her dad's boss loves him and by extension, her, Rachel's still not sure that her dad would actually want to help create a situation that allows her and Santana to be alone all weekend in comfort.
Thankfully, he agrees. He says it's only because he thinks Michael is over reacting to the relationship. "And I like the confidence she's helped instill in you." He also doesn't ask her to keep it a secret; another surprise.
She doesn't get a confirmation text until late that night, but her dad tells her that his boss, Jamie is fine with it and will messenger over the key the next day.
…
Quinn is feeling particularly anti social today, so she decides to eat lunch in the choir room. She knows that she runs the possibility of running into Rachel or worse, Mr. Schue, is high, but she decides to risk it because she just can't handle the lunch room today.
She's surprised to find Rachel and Brittany inside, quietly eating. Quinn looks around, but doesn't see Santana anywhere.
"She's talking to Coach," Brittany answers.
"Oh," Quinn replies sitting next to Brittany.
"I'm glad you're here Quinn," Rachel says. "As there was something I was hoping to discuss with you at one point."
Quinn sighs. "Berry, I'm really not in the mood for some-"
"I was talking to Santana last night," Rachel interrupts. "And I wanted you to know that if your mother doesn't give you permission or you're too afraid to ask, we can all drive up to Pittsburgh next weekend."
"Oh."
"Roooad Trip, woo hoo," Brittany exclaims.
"You say that like we've never been on a road trip together, Britt," Rachel says.
"It'll be like an adventure," Brittany replies. "And maybe Marisa can come this time?"
"Let's not get ahead of ourselves here, Brittany," Rachel says. "It may not be necessary."
"True," Brittany agrees. "If Quinn can nut up and ask for permission, then it'll be fine."
"Please never say, 'nut up' again, B," Quinn tells her.
"Okay."
"I'm sure if your mom said she'd be okay with it before, Quinn," Rachel says. "I'm sure she'll still agree now."
"I know," Quinn replies. "I guess I'm just worried that now that she's had some time to think about it, she'll change her mind."
"About you visiting Alyson alone?" Brittany questions.
"Yeah," Quinn replies. "And maybe about me being gay."
"You live with her Quinn," Rachel points out. "Do you ever get that sense from her?"
Quinn shakes her head.
"Then I guess I'm not sure I understand why you're so worried," Rachel says.
Quinn shrugs. "I guess I'm just so used to parental disapproval that I still expect it; even if my dad is gone."
"Well, that's certainly something I can understand," Rachel says.
...
“So have your parents decided yet?”
“They’re still thinking,” Santana replies.
“Hey,” Rachel says. “If they say no, then I’ll just have to figure out something else special we can do.”
“Yeah, but-”
“All that matters, San,” Rachel interjects. “Is that we’re together. Right?”
“Yeah.”
...
“I can’t believe that we’re actually saying this,” Clara says, two nights later over dinner. “But if you want to spend the weekend at a cabin with Rachel, just the two of you, we're fine with it."
"As long as we have as much contact info as possible," Tomás adds.
“Seriously?” Santana asks. “Thank you so much, you guys.” Santana eyes them suspiciously. “Did Rachel call you?”
Tomás laughs. “Surprisingly, no. We decided without your girl’s influence.”
“We’re just so proud of you, Santana,” Clara says. “Getting into NYU with such a huge scholarship; that’s incredible.”
“It’s not that big of deal,” Santana mumbles.
“Considering that you wouldn’t even discuss college with us your sophomore year,” Tomás says. “I beg to differ.”
“Oh. Yeah,” Santana says. “I was more pissed off back then.”
“Oh, we know,” Tomás replies.
"Another reason we're agreeing," Clara says.
"Oh. Well. Thanks."
...
“Did you call my parents?” Santana asks.
“About?” Rachel questions.
“You know what,” Santana retorts.
“Obviously I don’t,” Rachel replies. “Or I wouldn’t have asked.”
“They told me at dinner that as long as we give them all sorts of contact information, that they're fine if the two of us go up to that cabin."
“Really? Wow,” Rachel replies. “I guess your request wasn’t as insane as I thought.”
“No,” Santana says. “I knew it was. That’s why I thought you called them. You are their favorite, after all.”
Rachel sighs. "You know that's not true. Just like you know how proud of you they are."
"I know."
"Considering you just got exactly what you wanted for your birthday, you seem rather dour," Rachel says.
"Just thinking..."
"About?"
"Have I told you how glad I am that you're going to be in New York too?" Santana asks.
"Umm..."
"I mean, Brittany is going to California and Q is heading to Chicago and I just... knowing that you and I will be together, kicking ass in New York makes it all seem a bit less daunting, you know?"
"I do know," Rachel says quietly.
There's so much significance and feeling in those three words that Santana wonders if she and Rachel are having the same conversation.
"I should go."
It's an abrupt mood shift, even for Rachel, but Santana doesn't feel ready to question it yet. "All right."
"I've fallen a bit behind and I'm only a week ahead of our homework schedule," Rachel continues. "I'll be much more relaxed this weekend, if I'm caught up again."
Santana chuckles. "Whatever you say, babe. I'll see you tomorrow?"
"You will indeed," Rachel says. "Night San."
Santana stares at her phone for a long moment after Rachel hangs up, but she can't figure out what exactly suddenly shifted for Rachel. Maybe her girlfriend will be more willing to talk about it this weekend.
…
“I can’t believe you’re abandoning me like this.”
“I’m spending one weekend away with my girlfriend on her birthday,” Rachel replies. “I’d hardly call that abandonment.’
“Our senior year is slipping away, bro,” Noah says. “We gotta take advantage.”
“Yeah, well, my days with Santana are numbered as well,” Rachel replies. “So I have to get in as much alone time with her as possible.”
“So you’re really going to do it?” Noah asks, looking upset.
“I don’t think I have a choice, Noah,” Rachel replies. “It can only end badly.”
“Yeah, maybe,” he says. “But for some reason, I feel like you’re over reacting.”
“I’m not so sure that I am,” Rachel says.
“The chances of ever getting her back seem slim to none,” Noah points out.
“Perhaps,” Rachel agrees. “But Rachel Berry has been known to buck the odds before.”
“Yeah, but this seems like a much bigger risk.”
“I know,” Rachel sighs.
“You’re still waffling,” Noah says.
“I can’t be one hundred percent on this,” Rachel tells him. “I always told myself that I would be, but now, I’m not sure that it’s possible.”
“It definitely isn’t,” Noah agrees.
“I still have time,” Rachel says.
“You say that like something’s magically going to happen that will suddenly convince you.”
“Anything’s possible,” Rachel shrugs.
"It's your life, bro."
...
When Brittany insists on coming home with Santana after school Thursday, Santana doesn’t really think much of it. However, the blonde is unusually giddy in the car, even for Brittany.
“Maybe you should cut back on the caffeine, Britt,” Santana tells her as they pull into the driveway.
“I’m just excited, S,” Brittany replies.
“I can see that, B,” Santana says. “I’m just not sure why.”
Brittany just smirks and bounces into the house.
Once they’re settled in Santana’s room, the blonde hands over a large, beautifully wrapped box.
“Um, where did this come from?” Santana asks.
“Me, silly,” Brittany replies. “It’s your birthday present.”
“Thanks,” Santana says. “But that’s not what I meant.”
“Oh.”
“How did this box fit in your not very big backpack?” Santana questions.
Brittany shrugs. “Are you going to open it?”
Santana lets herself get caught up in her best friend’s excitement and begins pulling off the paper. The first thing she sees is a small stack of scratch offs and lottery tickets. She sets them aside as she shoots Brittany a strange look. Under that are a couple boxes of cigarettes as well as several plastic lighters and a small bottle of lighter fluid. Santana shakes her head and sets them aside. Considering what she’s already pulled out, it comes as no surprise to find several porn magazines at the bottom of the box. She chuckles at the Playboy and Playgirl and then just sputters in disbelief at the final one that reads Big and Beardy.
“I thought you’d enjoy the variety,” Brittany grins.
“Not that I don’t appreciate the sentiment, B, because I do,” Santana says. “But since I’m legal, I can just go get all this stuff myself.”
“I know,” Brittany nods. “But I wanted you to know all your options.”
“Thanks.”
”Maybe you can trade the cigarettes for favors,” Brittany suggests.
“You’re thinking of prison, Britt.”
“Oh. Yeah,” Brittany says. “I guess watching women in prison movies before I go to sleep may be a little confusing.”
“Does Marisa know about your horrible late night viewing habits?” Santana asks, amused.
Brittany grins. “She turned bright red when she picked up the box the other day.”
Santana just shakes her head as Brittany grabs Big and Beardy up and begins flipping through it.
…
Dinner is a quiet affair, per usual. Quinn talks about her day and her mom talks about hers. It's not the perfect family dinner that she always pretended existed in her house, but it's a great deal more comfortable than family dinners used to be. What Quinn appreciates the most is that even if she or her mom doesn't have a lot to say, they can still just eat in peace and enjoy each other's presence.
"Any plans for the weekend, Quinnie?"
"Um, well, actually, sort of," Quinn replies.
"Sort of?"
"Well, it's been a while since I've seen Alyson," Quinn explains. "And so I was hoping I could maybe do that this weekend."
"You want to drive to Pittsburgh this weekend?"
"Actually, just Akron," Quinn replies. "It's about halfway in between. And then it's not much of a drive for either of us."
"I see."
"And if she visits here, she has to stay with Rachel Berry... which is..." Not sure how to finish that sentence, Quinn just shakes herself and continues. "And if I drive there, we have to worry about her roommate. So we figured meeting half way in between is the best solution."
"So you're going to drive to Akron and stay in a hotel for a weekend to meet up with your girlfriend?" her mom clarifies.
"Uh, yeah," Quinn replies. "It sounds a bit... sordid when you say it like that. But it's not. Really."
"Well Akron is certainly closer than Pittsburgh," her mom says. "And I did say that I would be fine with you driving to Pittsburgh, so it seems unfair for me to say you can't meet Alyson in Akron."
"So I can go?"
Her mom nods.
"Thanks mom," Quinn grins. "You're the best."
"Did you really think that I would say no?" her mom asks.
"I don't know," Quinn says. "I guess I'm still getting used to... you and me and being honest and all that."
"I'm just glad that you asked me, Quinnie," her mom replies.
"Me too."
…
Wanting to have as much of the weekend as possible, Rachel insists on leaving bright and early Friday morning. Santana grumbles a lot, but agrees since the issue of skipping school, for once, doesn't seem to be a concern for Rachel. She’d like to think that’s her influence. Rachel haughtily denies it and turns up the music.
…
Since Alyson's last class of the day ends at one, Quinn skips the last couple periods so she can leave a bit early and get there around the same time. It's her senior year and she's in the top ten of her class. If she wants to skip a couple classes, she should be able to. The best thing is that because she's a Cheerio, no one's going to question it.
...
After almost five hours, they stop by the grocery store, since it’s on the way there. They buy groceries, Santana arguing about everything Rachel puts in the cart because the indignant huff Rachel gives at Santana's protests is adorable.
As they check out, Santana idly wonders if she can convince Rachel to cook naked. Maybe they could spend the entire weekend naked; she hadn't been joking about that. It is her birthday, after all.
It's not much of a drive to the cabin and before Santana realizes it, they're pulling into the driveway of a property that is definitely not just a simple cabin. It looks bigger than her own house.
They leave their bags by the door and explore. Rachel insists they visit the kitchen first, setting their groceries on the counter and Santana convinces her that they can put things away after a quick tour of the house.
Santana still can't believe the size of this so called cabin.
This guy's house must be a freaking castle.
"Not quite," Rachel replies. "But it's close. I think it has its own zip code."
The first floor has a chef's wet dream of a kitchen, a gigantic TV in front of the comfiest looking couch ever with tons of DVDs shelved nearby.
There are two bedrooms and a bathroom that are quite nice. And then they find the master suite. It is a massive bedroom with a king size bed. The bathroom has a whirlpool bath tub and a large shower where the water rains down from the ceiling.
"Damn..." Santana mutters.
"Not bad, huh?" Rachel smirks.
"This is one of the best ideas you've ever had," Santana replies.
Rachel grins. "Happy birthday, Tiger."
Santana grins back. "Thanks babe."
They explore the basement next even though they have no intention of using it. There's an entertainment room and two more bedrooms, as well as another impressive bathroom.
"This TV is bigger," Santana observes.
"The one upstairs is seventy-five inches, San," Rachel replies. "You don't think that's big enough?"
Santana can only shrug.
...
Rachel refuses to cook naked, but with some pleading from Santana, she does agree to cook nude except for an apron that reads That's How I Roll under a picture of a rolling pin. It's better than the other option: The Grillfather.
"I hope you're not too disappointed, San," Rachel say as she stands at the stove.
"Nope," Santana replies as she chops vegetables. "I still get to stare at your ass, which, as you know, is one of my favorite things to stare at."
"Santana," Rachel huffs.
Santana just grins and returns to her chopping.
...
Santana is in love with the shower. She and Rachel spend over an hour under the spray until the cold water drives them away.
"When you become rich and famous," Santana says as they dry off. "You are buying us one of these."
"Why is it my responsibility?" Rachel questions. "Aren't you going to become a rich and powerful attorney?"
"You'll be famous before I become powerful," Santana replies.
"Flattery? Really?" Rachel asks.
Grinning, Santana shakes her head. "Hey I was serious when I said that we're doing it everywhere we can here. It is my birthday, right?"
Rachel rolls her eyes. "If you don't stop throwing that in my face..."
"You wouldn't."
"Wouldn't I?"
"Fine," Santana says. "But only because you cooked my favorite, nearly nude."
"You're acting like seeing me naked is a novel concept," Rachel retorts.
Santana shrugs. "I've said it before and I'll say it again, you're hot. You should never wear clothes."
"Considering we live in Ohio, that sounds rather cold," Rachel replies.
"I'd keep you warm," Santana smirks.
Rachel rolls her eyes.
…
Santana wakes up on her back with Rachel on top of her and it feels like the perfect moment. Inhaling the faint, familiar scent of Rachel’s shampoo, Santana tries to imprint this moment in her mind. As the end of the school year approaches, Santana knows that she probably won’t have many more moments like this with her girlfriend and there will definitely be fewer moments of alone time. Sure, they’ll have the summer together, but Santana knows that Rachel will still be just as busy with her various classes as well as preparing for New York.
Santana’s heart speeds up a bit. She’s nervous; she can admit that to herself, at least. While she’s excited for her and Rachel to take New York by storm, she’s also well aware of the difficulties that come from transition a high school relationship into college. And while they’ll definitely be in the same city, they’ll both be very busy. But Santana knows that their relationship is up to the challenge. At least she hopes it is. She can’t lose this, she tells herself as she tightens her arms around the still slumbering Rachel.
“I love you,” Santana whispers.
“Love you too,” a still sleeping Rachel mumbles back.
…
They stay in bed later than usual and then they spend the rest of the morning in the Jacuzzi tub. Even if they’re basically doing what they do every weekend together, their surroundings make it seem special. It really is the perfect birthday. It makes Santana feel like a bit of sap, thinking that. But she’s unapologetically in love; if she wants to spend her eighteenth birthday, naked with her super hot girlfriend, then she should be able to.
…
The drive back to Lima is filled with a comfortable silence that still sometimes surprises Santana. It's been a perfect birthday weekend, which also surprises her a bit, even though she knows that being with Rachel and becoming the person she is, who is incredibly different from pre glee Santana, have made it possible to enjoy things that she would have scoffed at years before. It's definitely a good thing; Santana isn't sure that she liked the person she'd been turning into. Especially since that person wouldn't have enjoyed a silent, yet content car ride with Rachel Berry.
Santana's hand finds Rachel's knee and idly traces patterns on it. Rachel keeps her eyes on the road, but smiles.
"Happy?"
"Course, babe," Santana replies. "I got exactly what I wanted for my birthday."
"Good."
"You're spoiling me," Santana continues.
"How so?"
"My last two birthdays have been exactly what I wanted," Santana explains. "You're setting quite a precedent."
"You say that like it's a bad thing," Rachel says.
"Hey, I'm not complaining," Santana replies. "I'm just saying."
"You better not be complaining," Rachel teases. "Or I'll take it all back."
Santana laughs. "How? As far as I know, Artie hasn't built a time machine yet."
"Give him time," Rachel retorts. "I'm sure he'll figure something out."
"Then I look forward to it," Santana says. "I can think of nothing but possibilities.
"God," Rachel groans. "How is it possible for you to make everything sound dirty?"
"Multi talented," Santana answers. "Remember?"
"Oh, I definitely remember," Rachel purrs.
"Good."
"All right then."
Santana sighs. "You don't always have to have the last word, you know."
"Yes I do."
Santana growls, but doesn't really comment.