fic: Revelations and Confrontations
Title: Revelations and Confrontations
Author: slacker_d
Pairing/Characters: Rachel/Santana, New Directions, Will, Sue
Rating: R
Summary: New Directions' reactions to finding out that Santana and Rachel are dating.
Disclaimer: Not mine.
Word Count: ~6,100
Spoilers: Not really.
A/N: This is for all of you that asked for glee club's initial reaction. Falls in between Flow Charts Are Never Wrong and Cuffed.
2nd A/N: Unbeta’ed, so all mistakes are mine.
Flow Charts Are Never Wrong | Cuffed | Physics and Golf | The Student Becomes the Master | Breaking Into School is Easy to Do | Keeping Up Appearances | Games People Play | Ink and Gossip | Like That Movie, Open Water
Dating Rachel Berry isn't what Santana thought it would be. Granted, it's still summer, but nothing really changes in their relationship or routine. After Cheerios' practice, Santana and Brittany head over to Rachel's and hang out. Brittany will eventually go home and Santana will spend the night. Santana's mom just assumes she's at Brittany's since that's what has happened before. And because Santana doesn't want to explain Rachel, Santana lets her mother believe nothing's changed.
Brittany shows up the first day of summer Cheerios practice and greets Santana with an enthusiastic squeal. They have plenty to catch up on and so Brittany accompanies Santana to Rachel's. Santana doesn't say anything. She's not sure how to explain, but Brittany never questions, just follows her in and when Santana greets Rachel with a kiss, Brittany just waits and gives Rachel a hug after.
With school starting soon, Santana knows the inevitable relationship discussion is coming. She knows Rachel said she didn’t expect them to walk through the halls hand in hand, but part of Santana wonders if Rachel just said that to placate her. Despite Rachel's behavior during their short dating tenure, Santana is still bracing herself for the return of crazy, intense dating Rachel. Maybe when school starts.
…
"So are you and Rachel like dating?" Brittany asks after practice one day.
"Yeah."
"Oh. Is that why you and I haven't had sex?"
"It is."
"Oh, good. I was worried you were mad at me for not being around all summer."
"Not mad, B," Santana says. "You explained it all. I just missed you."
"I missed you too."
"You're okay with me and Rachel?" Santana asks, hesitantly.
"Yeah. Besides, you seem to really like her. And I just want you to be happy."
Santana is relieved. Even though she and Brittany have always been relaxed and causal about their relationship, the situation with Rachel is different than any other situation. Santana is thankful that Brittany has never pushed for commitment or even seemed to want one. For whatever reason, it doesn't seem to be something Brittany wants from her.
"Wait a minute," Santana says. "What do you mean, I really seem to like her? I mean, yeah, she's less annoying one on one and she's good in bed, but that doesn't necessarily mean I really like her."
"S, as your best friend, I just know these things," Brittany tells her. "You just need to trust me."
"Yeah, yeah," Santana grumbles. "We'll see what happens when school starts."
"You're going to stop the slushies, right?" Brittany asks. "Cause she's your girlfriend?"
"Yeah."
"Good."
…
"So as I'm sure you're aware," Rachel says. "School resumes in a couple of days. And I'd like to discuss our relationship in relation to our approach at school."
They're currently in Rachel's room and Santana is looking around for the signs of a PowerPoint presentation.
"Fine."
"You have nothing else to say?"
Santana shrugs. "I figured you have a plan."
"Well, you're welcome to comment, of course, but I definitely welcome your input as well."
"Lucky me."
"Santana, there's no need for sarcasm," Rachel admonishes. "Very well. Let me give you my plan and then we can build off it, if you feel that's necessary."
"Okay," Santana prepares herself for some elaborate scenario involving puppy calendars, charts and coupledom.
"I don't think we should be out, just yet," Rachel says.
"What?"
"I'd rather at first that we just be friends at school, because we're never going to be walking down the halls arm in arm. Also, we don't need to eat lunch together and you don't have to walk me to class. I would, however, appreciate if the bullying stopped."
"You don't want to be out?" Santana questions.
"Not right away, no."
"Why not?"
"Our relationship has been immensely insular so far and I don't know how it's going to function in the real world," Rachel explains. "I'd like to experience that first before we add the burden of everyone else's opinion."
"What? You're ashamed of me?" Santana asks.
"Of course not," Rachel replies. "I simply know how things are. And I think they acceptance of us will be easier if taken in steps. Such as us being friends as the first step."
"Are you sure this isn't about your need for a leading man?"
"Well, I'll admit that it's diminished somewhat since I haven't found a suitable candidate. Besides, why would I need one? I have you."
"I'm way better than Finn," Santana says, smugly.
"You've certainly never lied to me, which I appreciate."
"Plus I'm smokin' hot."
"That too."
Though she likes to mock Rachel for it, Santana is very glad for her strategizing. It only takes them an hour to figure out how they're going to approach each person. This is at Rachel's insistence. And what Santana finds, grudgingly, more impressive is that Rachel seems to know how they need to approach each person and has a different strategy for both of them. Because obviously individually they'd receive a different line of attack from Schuester once he finds out. Santana will, of course, be full of malicious intent while Rachel will be a delicate flower in need of saving.
"A delicate flower?" Santana mocks. "Really? I didn't realize you needed saving."
"Everyone needs to be saved at one point of their lives, Santana," Rachel replies primly. "Besides, I'm simply predicting people's reactions and then making them sound better with my superior language skills."
Santana shakes her head. "Sometimes your modesty is overwhelming."
"Once again, I’m ignoring your sarcasm. There's nothing wrong with having a positive self image."
"Is that we're calling it today?"
"Quiet you or I'll cut you off."
"Ha! As if. You want it as much as I do."
…
Santana is actually nervous about the first day of school, though she'd never admit it. She picks up Brittany first, then Rachel and they head to school. She walks into school, pinkies linked with Brittany and chatting with Rachel. They part company once they pass Rachel's locker and the Cheerios head to theirs.
She and Rachel acknowledge each other in the halls and in class, but the interaction is limited. However, Santana does start making it know that bullying Rachel will have serious consequences. She knows it might take a bit, but Santana will make sure Rachel is left alone. She at least owes her that much.
"You owe her that and more," Brittany says. "Being she's your girlfriend."
"Would you stop that? And Rachel isn't demanding all that," Santana tells her.
"Lucky you," Brittany replies. "Who would've thought that you'd be the one to relax Rachel Berry?"
"Actually, I think she's the same, just hides it a bit better now."
"She's a pretty good actress then," Brittany comments. "Cause she seems like a different person to me."
"Seriously, B?" Santana asks. "Because she still uses six words when only one is needed, plans obsessively, talks about Broadway and breaks out into song randomly."
"Yeah, but she's calmer about it."
"I'm not sure that makes sense, B."
…
Rachel sits at lunch with Kurt, Mercedes, Tina and Artie. She's quiet, letting Kurt and Mercedes dominate the conversation with first day back gossip.
"So they big glee news of the day is your apparent friendship with our resident bitch," Kurt says to Rachel.
"Please don't call her that," Rachel replies. "And it shouldn't be that big of a surprise. We hung out a bit over the summer."
"So?" Mercedes asks. "Santana Lopez at McKinley is a different beast than she was over the summer."
"It is a bit strange," Tina adds.
"Though I hear that there'll be no more slushies allowed," Artie volunteers.
"That'll be a refreshing change," Rachel comments.
The other four just stare at her.
"What?"
"We just figured you'd demand the slushies end," Kurt says.
"Demand seems like a strong word."
"And yet an accurate one," Artie says.
"Perhaps," Rachel replies. "However, all I did was make a request."
"Oh is that all?" Kurt asks. "What if she hadn't?"
"Well, she did, so why worry about it?"
"Because you're Rachel Berry," Kurt tells her.
"I'm not sure that's a valid argument," Rachel replies. "Truthfully, I don't know. It would have been dealt with if necessary."
"Rachel Berry doesn't have a contiguity plan?" Mercedes asks. "I'm not sure how I feel about that."
"Shouldn't you be glad?" Rachel questions. "Don't you guys hate it when I do that?"
"Hate seems like such a strong word," Tina says.
…
The first glee back is a mix of surprises and the usual. Will has to pinch himself to make sure he isn't seeing things when he notices Santana and Rachel sitting next to each other and looking civil. Seeing Quinn back in her Cheerios outfit is also a bit jarring.
It probably doesn’t help that Finn keeps glaring back at Santana. It's partly the reason he constantly messes up each time they attempt to dance. Of all people, it's Kurt who finally loses his temper.
"Finn! Stop staring at them and pay attention!"
Finn is shocked. He looks around and sees everyone with a similar expression on their faces. "Sorry guys."
This time he concentrates and they manage to make it through the whole song. Practice continues without any other incidents.
However when Santana and Rachel are dragged out by Brittany, everyone else can only stare after them in disbelief.
…
It occurs to Rachel as she wipes cherry slushie off her that she didn't get slushied on the first day. She wonders what changed today. She knows Santana had been putting the word out to leave her alone because she'd been avoided by most of her usual tormentors. When they saw Rachel in the halls, they moved away quickly.
At least she still brought an extra outfit; she hadn't thought the slushies would stop cold turkey.
Rachel doesn't look up when the door opens, just continues to clean up.
"You're not mad at Santana, are you Rachel?" Brittany asks.
"Why would I be mad?"
"Because you got slushied."
"Santana didn't slushie me, Britt," Rachel replies. "I fully expected them to continue for a while. Not because I don't trust Santana, but because it's difficult to immediately change the behavior of the herd."
"Oh. Good. Do you need any help?"
"Actually I believe I'm okay," Rachel says. "I just need to change."
"Okay. I'll go tell Santana you're not mad."
"Did she send you?"
"No. But she was worried."
"Tell her if she really feels that bad, she can make it up to me later," Rachel says.
"Okay," Brittany replies. "Wait. Does that mean we're not going to hang out later because you guys want to have sex?"
Rachel just smiles. "We can hang out for a while, Britt."
"Are you sure?" Brittany asks. "Because Santana gets very cranky when she doesn't get sex. Trust me."
"I do. But not hanging out with you makes her cranky too."
"That's true," Brittany nods. "Okay. See you later, Rach."
…
The jock that stupidly slushied Rachel shows up the next day with a black eye, a broken leg and his jaw wired shut.
Everybody leaves Rachel alone after that.
…
The glee kids find out on accident. One morning, a few weeks into the school year, Kurt and Mercedes are looking for Mr. Schue and walk into the choir room to find Rachel straddling Santana on the piano bench. They're only making out, but its still enough for Kurt to go running out in horror.
Santana looks over Rachel's shoulder at Mercedes while she's looking back at them in shock.
"What?" Santana growls.
"Nothing. I just--have you seen Mr. Schue?"
"Not lately."
"It's not what you think, Mercedes," Rachel says.
"I'm not thinking anything," Mercedes replies quickly.
"It's perfectly natural to make out with one's girlfriend before school, don't you think?" Rachel continues.
"Of course it is," Mercedes tells her. "I was just--wait a minute, girlfriend?"
"We're dating," Santana replies. "Got a problem with it?"
"No. No. Of course not," Mercedes says. "Okay. Well, later then." And Mercedes backs away slowly out of the room.
"Well, now we don't have to tell people," Rachel says.
"Hope you're ready."
"Do we have a choice?" Rachel asks. "Besides, the same could be said for you."
"Babe, I'm Santana fucking Lopez. This school is lucky I even show up."
"Plus you're smokin' hot."
"You know it."
…
Will can only stare after Kurt and Mercedes' retreating figures. Apparently, Santana and Rachel were making out in the choir room because their dating. For a brief moment he was sure he was dreaming. Once he establishes he's not, he decides to take matters into his own hands.
He seeks out Sue. She's in her office, reviewing a recent performance.
"Sue, we need to talk," he says walking in.
"Do we, William?" Sue replies. "Finally going to throw in the towel, are we?"
"Whatever little scheme you've got planned, cancel it," Will tells her. "Having one student take down another is just cruel and wrong. I won't stand for it."
"Judge me all you want, William, but I do what I need to, to survive. Nothing less, nothing more."
"Well, I won't let Rachel be hurt again. Santana needs to stop this, Sue, or else."
"Threats, really?" Sue replies. "Pathetic. Really pathetic."
"I'm warning you, Sue," Will says from the doorway. "End this." And then he scurries down the hall.
…
Oddly, Coach Sylvester is the first one to confront either of them about their relationship.
Santana is called into her office, alone. This is never a good sign.
"I've heard something very interesting, today, Lopez," Sue begins. "And it needs to be discussed. Now."
Santana nods and waits.
"Is it true that you are dating the glee midget?"
Santana tries not to visibly cringe. She'd been hoping to have more time before this confrontation occurred. A bottom rung Cheerio must have overheard something and ran straight to Sue. When Santana figures out who it was, they're going to do squat thrusts and suicides until they pass out; she doesn't care if she's not captain.
Trying to be nonchalant, Santana shrugs. "She's good in bed."
"But dating, Santana?" Sue presses. "That doesn't seem necessary. Especially for you."
"It's the only way she'd put out on a regular basis."
"She's simply trying to crawl out of the basement of mediocrity," Sue says. "And instead she's going to drag you down."
"Hardly," Santana scoffs. "We barely interact at school. If we hadn't been caught making out, no one would have known."
Sue ponders this a moment. "And how did you manage that?"
"I’m that good."
"All right," Sue says finally. "But I will be evaluating this affair on a regular basis. Dismissed."
…
"We need to talk, girl," Mercedes says pulling Rachel in the bathroom with Kurt.
"Must we?" Rachel replies as Kurt locks the door. "That's a fire hazard Kurt."
"This is far more important," Kurt replies.
"Fire safety is very important--"
"We need to talk about you and Santana," Mercedes says.
"Really?" Kurt is flabbergasted.
"What?" Rachel asks.
"This is going to crash and burn," Mercedes tells her.
"Fire and brimstone," Kurt adds.
"I actually started looking for other signs of an apocalypse," Mercedes continues.
"Don't you think you're being a bit dramatic?" Rachel asks.
"No," Kurt replies. "We're being realistic. She's a Cheerio and you're…you."
"I'm aware."
"She crushes people like you under her heel and then laughs."
"That was last year."
"I know Finn can be a bit thoughtless, but dating Santana seems like jumping straight into the fire," Kurt says.
"I realize how it looks," Rachel replies. "But I assure you, it's fine. And no offense intended, but why do you suddenly care?"
"I'm not in the mood for any of your relationship drama at the moment is all," Kurt tells her.
"I suppose I can understand that."
"And maybe we care about you a little," Mercedes says, nudging Kurt.
"Fine. I also don't want you to get hurt again because you've decided to start dating a lying liar."
"Well. at least Santana won't kill poor innocent chickens to humiliate me," Rachel replies.
Kurt and Mercedes just gape at her.
"Yes," Rachel says. "Well this has been informative, but I really do need to be going."
After unlocking the door, Rachel flounces out.
"The four horsemen will be galloping through the halls very soon," Kurt says.
"We should call our parents and tell them we love them before the world ends," Mercedes agrees.
…
"RuPaul, really, Santana?" Quinn says when she sits down at lunch. "Getting a bit desperate, aren't we? It was bad enough when you were being civil towards her, but this? This is unacceptable."
"Luckily, I don't need your permission," Santana snaps.
"What about the Coach's?" Quinn smirks.
"It's been discussed."
"I bet."
"Keep your opinions to yourself, Q," Santana snaps.
"Embarrassed?"
"Hardly," Santana replies. "I'm so awesome, it doesn't matter who I date, I'll still be popular. But more importantly, my girlfriend puts out. She's not some stuck up prude like some people."
"Some of us have standards."
"Or you're frigid," Santana shoots back.
"Well, at least I don't stoop to messing around with Man Hands," Quinn mocks. "You can't get much lower than that."
"She's way better in the sack than you'll ever hope to be."
"You would value that."
"I'm young and hot," Santana replies. "What else is there?"
"Hey guys," Brittany says, sitting next to Santana.
"Hey, Britt."
"What are you guys talking about?"
"And what does Brittany think about this ridiculous development?" Quinn asks.
"I'm fine with it," Brittany replies. "What development?"
"Santana and Treasure Trail," Quinn tells her.
"Oh, that. I’m fine with it."
"But what about you and Santana?" Quinn asks.
"What about us?" Brittany returns. "She's my best friend."
"The problem is, Q," Puck says sitting next to Quinn. "You're too uptight."
"God, Quinn," Santana says. "Even Puck gets it."
"Hot chicks are always something I get," Puck tells them.
"You're a pig," Quinn says.
"Whatever, baby mama, you still took a ride on the Puckerman Express, so you're not one to talk."
"Do not call me that again," Quinn tells him. "Or I will kick you in the balls. Every day until you stop."
"She would too, Puck," Brittany adds.
"Whatever, Fabray," Puck mutters. "Thought you'd be less uptight this year."
"Ha," Santana scoffs. "She'll never get that stick out of her ass."
"That sounds really uncomfortable, Quinn," Brittany says. "How do you sit down?"
"It's figurative, Britt," Santana tells her.
"Oh. Okay."
…
"What are you doing?" Finn asks, after grabbing Rachel on the way to lunch.
"Going to lunch."
"With Santana," Finn hisses. "She's only going to hurt you."
"You don't know that," Rachel tells him.
"Have you seen her and Brittany? They haven't changed one bit. They're totally still doing it. She's just using you."
"Just because she acts the same around her best friend, doesn't mean she's using me."
"God, Rachel, listen to me," Finn says. "I know we're not together anymore, but I still care about you. I don't want you to get hurt."
"Oh? That's interesting," Rachel replies. "Because you know what Santana did for me already this year, which you certainly never did? She got people to leave me alone. I haven't had a slushie thrown in my face since the second day. And that was only because he was trying to get back at Santana. I certainly haven't received one since. You never once stood up for me."
"That's not true," Finn protests. "I stood up for you lots of times. It's just, you were never around."
"And all those times I was around and you didn't stand up for me?" Rachel questions. "How am I supposed to interpret those?"
"Those guys are my friends, Rach. I didn't want them to think I was some whipped, pathetic wuss."
"Except you are Finn," Rachel says. "You're just whipped by your need to be popular."
"Santana's done plenty to you in the name of popularity," Finn points out.
"At least she didn't lie to me for months."
"What?"
"You remember when you and I talked about Jesse?" Rachel asks. "That would have been the perfect opportunity to share that you were no longer a virgin."
"What are you talking about?"
"I know you slept with Santana."
"What? No, I--"
"Don't bother," Rachel snaps. "I can't believe I gave myself to you."
"It didn't count," Finn insists. "Once it was over, I knew it didn't count. You and I, that counted."
"And yet you broke up with me over sex," Rachel continues.
"Are you mad that it was Santana?" Finn questions. "I was just so sick of everyone looking down on me for it, so I jumped at the first chance I got."
"I don't care who it was with."
"And we weren't even together," Finn points out.
"I know."
"So you have no right to be angry with me."
"I have no right to be angry with you?" It is obvious, even to Finn, that Rachel is quietly seething at the moment.
"I mean, would you have slept with me if you'd known? I couldn't tell you."
"So you just wanted to have sex? I can't believe you. Did you even love me?"
"Of course I did. I still do," Finn replies. "I wouldn't have said it if I didn't mean it."
"How am I supposed to trust you? You just admitted that you lied to get into my pants. I don't even know you."
"Of course you do," Finn says. "I’m the same guy I've always been. This information shouldn't change anything."
"You're right about one thing. You are the same guy you've always been. That's the problem," Rachel says. "I need to go, Finn." And Rachel pushes him backwards and walks away.
"Rachel," Finn calls. "C'mon, Rach, don't be like that."
…
Will has spent most of last period watching Rachel and Santana's interaction, or rather their lack of interaction. For two people who claim to be dating, they barely acknowledge each other's existence in class. It raises warning flags. So Will has Santana stay after class to talk.
"I'll get right to the point, Santana," Will begins. "I want you to stay away from Rachel."
"No offense, Mr. Schue, but you're not mine or Berry's father, so you don't really get to make those sort of demands."
"Rachel needs someone looking out for her here," Will tells Santana.
"Yeah. You're doing a bang up job so far, Mr. Schue," Santana scoffs.
"This from one of her main torturers."
"Yeah. So? People can't change?"
"Of course they can," Will replies. "But I have my doubts about the followers of Sue Sylvester."
"Your issues with Coach Sylvester aren't my concern," Santana replies. "Rachel has forgiven me and that's what matters."
"Rachel can be too trusting," Will says.
"Did you give this speech to your golden boy?" Santana asks. "Because he's hurt Rachel plenty over the last year. Did you jump to her defense back then?"
"The difference is intent," Will shoots back. "Finn didn't have the spiteful objective you always seem to have."
"Yes, being thoughtless and inconsiderate is much better."
"He cares about her," Will replies.
"And I don't?" Santana asks. "If this was just a roll in the sack, why would I go through all this? I don't have any problems finding sexual partners. I mean, just look at me."
"Santana."
"Look, Mr. Schue, I'm sure Rachel appreciates your concern, but there's no reason for it. She and I haven't gotten along in the past, but we worked it out and that's all you need to know."
"I'll be watching you," Will tells her.
"That doesn't sound too creepy or anything, Mr. Schue," Santana replies. "Are we done?"
Will sighs. "Yes we're done."
…
Because of Mr. Schuester's little talk, the halls are mostly cleared by the time Santana reaches her locker. They have glee this afternoon, so she just stuffs her things in her locker. She'll get her books later.
"Whatever you've got planned, it's not going to work," Finn tells Santana as he walks up behind her.
"Like usual, I don't know what you're talking about. Nor do I care," Santana replies.
"Whatever you're doing with Rachel has got to stop," Finn says.
"Jealous?" Santana sneers. "I'll tell you one thing, Berry's a lot better in bed than you. Even her first time and, as I'm sure you're not aware, she's a screamer."
Finn growls at her.
"Plus she does this thing with her tongue--"
Santana finds herself pressed up against the lockers.
"Gonna hit me, Hudson?" Santana smirks. "You know you want to."
"You deserve it," Finn tells her.
"Why? Because I took away your v-card?" Santana mocks. "Or because I took your girlfriend?"
Finn's fist slamming into the locker just left of Santana's head echoes loudly in the hallway.
"Feel better?" Santana taunts. "This has been fun." She pushes him away. "But I'm going to find my girlfriend and see if she wants a quickie before glee. Later loser." And Santana walks away leaving Finn fuming behind her.
…
When Will arrives for glee that afternoon, he drags Rachel outside for a talk. Literally.
"Mr. Schuester, this physicality is unnecessary. If you wanted to talk, you simply had to say so."
"I'm worried about you, Rachel," he tells her.
"Whatever for?"
"Santana, really?"
"Mr. Schue, I am fully aware that as a teenager it may seem that I have impaired judgment, but let me assure you, it's fine."
"How can you trust her?" Will asks.
"That's between she and I," Rachel replies.
"You have to know it's a plot," Will continues. "Her and Coach Sylvester are up to something. They're still trying to destroy me--us--glee."
"You are certainly entitled to your opinion," Rachel tells him. "But not everything is about you or glee. Sometimes things just happen."
"I just don't want to see you get hurt, Rachel," Will says.
"I'm sure you believe that, Mr. Schue," Rachel replies. "But if that was really true, my life would be significantly different. I think what you mean is that you don't want me to be hurt by anyone working for Coach Sylvester. I realize that she most likely started this little war you have going, but that doesn't mean you have to continue it."
"Rachel, my issues with Coach Sylvester aren't the problem here--"
"Are you sure?" Rachel questions. "When you found out I was dating Noah, you didn't say anything. And he's thrown dozens of slushies at me."
"That's different."
"How?"
"Because," Will says. "Because Puck is Puck and Santana is Santana."
"That isn't an argument."
"Because I'm fairly certain Puck's only goal was to get into your pants," Will tries. "Where as Santana's goal is most likely more sinister and cruel."
"So you're worried about what? My feelings? But not my virtue?"
"I'm confident that if you weren't comfortable with something Puck proposed, you would say so," Will tells her. "But Santana will have no problems manipulating you into some twisted and vicious situation."
"So you weren't concerned because Noah isn't as intelligent as Santana?"
"That's not what I--stop twisting my words, Rachel," Will sputters.
"I'm simply trying to understand, Mr. Schue," Rachel says.
"I just want you to be careful," Will tells her. "Approach this cautiously."
"Well, why didn't you just say so?" Rachel questions. "That is always sound advice."
"Rachel, I just--"
"Mr. Schue, I hate to be rude," Rachel interrupts. "But we're wasting valuable glee time out here."
Will sighs. "I suppose you're right. Just…be careful."
"Thank you, Mr. Schue." And Rachel flounces into the room ahead of him.
…
Everyone tries to look occupied when Rachel and Mr. Schuester enter. They'd all heard the muffled argument outside, but no one could make out what was being said; though they all have a pretty good idea what the topic was.
Rachel enters first, followed by Mr. Schuester. Rachel looks her usual exuberant glee self, while Mr. Schuester looks a bit downtrodden.
Instead of sitting, Rachel stands at the front of the room and waits for everyone's attention. When they quiet down, she motions to Santana, who reluctantly joins her.
"It's apparent you've all heard. And I cannot handle any more confrontations, so let's just get it over with. If you have an opinion about our relationship, now is the time to voice it. After this, I will simply walk away."
Puck raises his hand.
Smiling, Rachel says, "Yes?"
"If you're ever looking to toss a little meat in, let me know. The Puckasauras knows how to show girls a good time. S knows."
"Puck that is completely inappropriate," Will says.
"I appreciate your disgusting candor, Noah," Rachel says. "But I'll have to decline."
Puck shrugs. "Your loss."
"Definitely your loss, Puckerman," Santana snarks.
"Yes, well, thank you for that, Santana," Rachel says. "Anyone else?"
Mike raises his hand.
"Mike?"
"Does this mean Rachel and Santana will be singing all the leads now?"
Snickering fills the room.
"Real funny, Chang," Santana says.
He just smiles and shrugs at her.
"Anyone else?" Rachel asks.
"Just sit down already, Stubbles," Quinn calls out. "Leave it to you to find another way to draw attention to yourself."
"The name calling stops now, Fabray," Santana growls. "That goes for everyone. They stop now or else."
"Santana," Will interjects. "I won't tolerate blatant threats."
"Then maybe you should have said something similar," Santana shoots back. "You done, babe?"
"I believe so, yes," Rachel replies. "I suppose we can sit down."
Rachel laces their fingers and leads Santana to the empty chairs next to Brittany.
"Okay. Now that that's figured out, should we start?" Will suggests.
…
Thankfully, the others stop questioning the relationship out loud. Rachel's not delusional enough to think they don't discuss it outside of her presence. But they don't bring it up to Santana or Rachel.
They do, however, bring it up with Brittany.
Kurt has Brittany join him, Mercedes, Tina and Artie for lunch one day to question her. It doesn't yield the results Kurt is hoping for. Because of her solitary summer, Brittany didn't see the evolution of the relationship. She simply tells them that Santana likes Rachel.
"Well we did figure that out," Kurt tells her. "We were looking for more dirt."
"Have you tried outside?"
"Why?"
"That's usually where I find dirt," Brittany replies.
"Brittany," Tina says. "Kurt was hoping for more specific details about Santana and Rachel."
"Oh. I don't think I have any."
"Aren't you and Santana still best friends?" Mercedes asks.
"Of course," Brittany replies. "But we just go to Rachel's after school and hang out. And then sometimes Santana will stay while I leave and sometimes she won't."
"That's it?" Artie asks.
"How often does Santana tell Rachel to shut up when she's talking too much?" Mercedes asks.
"Never," Brittany replies.
"Never?" Kurt reiterates.
"Never. But Rachel doesn't talk that much."
"Wait, what?" Kurt asks.
"I do most of the talking," Brittany continues.
"Are we in the Twilight Zone?" Artie asks.
"Thanks, Brittany," Tina says before Kurt suffers a heart attack. He's clenching his chest in shock.
"Okay. Bye guys."
"What the hell is going on?" Kurt manages.
"Maybe we should just drop it," Tina says.
"T's right," Mercedes says. "Besides, I'm sure it'll all be revealed soon enough. We warned Rachel, if she doesn't want to listen to us, then there's nothing we can do."
"Maybe there's nothing to be revealed," Tina suggests.
"It's Santana," Kurt says. "There has to be."
…
Quinn corners Brittany one day before lunch.
"So, B, tell me the truth," she starts. "What's Santana's scheme?"
"Scheme for what?"
"Her and Treasure Trail."
"You're not supposed to call Rach that anymore," Brittany points out.
"What Santana doesn't know won't hurt me," Quinn replies.
"I could tell her," Brittany offers.
"Please don’t, Britt. Just tell me what Santana plans on doing with Berry."
"They're dating."
"I'm aware of that, B," Quinn says. "But there's no way Santana would just start dating Berry when she's already got a perfectly good hot Cheerio to make out with."
"Really?" Brittany asks. "Who?"
"You, Britt."
"Oh. I don't know. Maybe she wanted some commitment."
"Once again, what's wrong with you?"
"I don't want commitment," Brittany answers.
"Why not?"
"We're in high school, silly."
"So?"
"I'm not looking for serious right now," Brittany tells her.
"Oh."
"That's why Santana and I decided sex isn't dating," Brittany explains. "Because we still like being with each other."
"You don't have to explain it to me, Britt," Quinn tells her.
"I do," Brittany argues. "I know what you think. That me and Santana sleep around too much, but how are you supposed to know what you like if you don't try stuff? Plus I'm not great at the school stuff, so I just concentrate on other things."
"Britt."
"Rachel and Santana like each other. That's all that matters. And S is my best friend, which Rachel respects and even indulges, so I support them. So maybe you can at least try to be civil to Rachel and not call her all those names anymore. Santana and I would really appreciate it."
"Fine. I promise I'll try," Quinn says. "But don't expect immediate results."
"Thanks Q." Brittany gives Quinn a hug and runs off.
…
Mr. Schuester asks Brittany to stop by his office over lunch. When she does, she finds him and Finn talking quietly. She knocks. They both look up guiltily and Brittany wonders what she's in store for.
"Brittany, hi," Will says. "Come in. Have a seat." She does. "Finn and I wanted to ask you something."
"Okay."
"We were just wondering why Santana is dating Rachel," Will tells her.
"Because she likes her," Brittany answers.
"I'm sorry, Brittany, but I just have a hard time believing that," Will says.
"Why?"
"Because Santana's never really liked Rachel and now suddenly she does?"
Brittany shrugs. "I guess. I wasn't there when they became friends."
"Santana has to be up to something," Finn says.
"Why?"
"Because she's Santana."
"She just likes Rachel," Brittany insists.
"Is it possible that Santana has something planned and just hasn't told you?" Will asks.
Brittany thinks it over for a moment. "No."
"Then explain to me what is going on," Finn says.
"Duh. They like each other." Brittany doesn't understand why everyone keeps asking her. It seems obvious to her.
"All right. Thanks, Brittany," Will says. "You can go."
"See you later, Mr. Schue. Finn." And Brittany skips out.
…
Rachel is pushed into Coach Sylvester's office by two Cheerios as she walks by.
"Yentl."
"Coach Sylvester."
"It seems you've managed to corrupt one of my protégés. This is simply unacceptable. Especially because from what I can see, you're nothing special."
"Santana seems to think so."
"She does indeed," Sue agrees. "And now all I have to do is figure out, why."
"I'm quite flexible and willing to experiment in bed," Rachel replies, primly.
"Yes, that would do it," Sue agrees. "Girl is driven by her libido. She's worse than Mohawk in that regard."
"Perhaps."
"Still, I'll be keeping an eye on you," Sue continues. "Whatever plot you have, isn't going to work."
"I'm not plotting anything."
"You do have that doe eyed act down, I will say that," Sue says. "But don't think for one minute that I'm falling for it. There's a schemer's brain in that little head of yours and I don't trust you one bit."
"I could say the same about you, Coach."
"Remember. I'll be watching you, Rosalyn."
"Noted," Rachel says before leaving.
…
"People are weird," Brittany announces to Santana and Rachel as the three of them study that afternoon.
"What makes you say that?" Rachel asks.
"Everybody keeps asking me what you guys are doing," Brittany answers. "And I tell them, dating, duh."
"It just took everyone by surprise," Rachel explains.
"That's because they don't see you guys like this," Brittany says, gesturing to how closely Rachel and Santana are sitting, legs tangled together. "If they did, it'd make sense."
Rachel and Santana look at each other and then back to Britt.
"No way," Santana says.
"Absolutely not," Rachel agrees.
Brittany sighs. "Okay. But if people keep bugging me about it, I'm going to start taking pictures to show people."
"Just don't tell Noah," Rachel says. "Or he'll ask for naked ones."
"He won't if he knows what's good for him," Santana growls.
"Ahhh, protective San is so cute," Brittany says, pulling Santana in for a hug.
"I am not cute," Santana grouses.
Author: slacker_d
Pairing/Characters: Rachel/Santana, New Directions, Will, Sue
Rating: R
Summary: New Directions' reactions to finding out that Santana and Rachel are dating.
Disclaimer: Not mine.
Word Count: ~6,100
Spoilers: Not really.
A/N: This is for all of you that asked for glee club's initial reaction. Falls in between Flow Charts Are Never Wrong and Cuffed.
2nd A/N: Unbeta’ed, so all mistakes are mine.
Flow Charts Are Never Wrong | Cuffed | Physics and Golf | The Student Becomes the Master | Breaking Into School is Easy to Do | Keeping Up Appearances | Games People Play | Ink and Gossip | Like That Movie, Open Water
Dating Rachel Berry isn't what Santana thought it would be. Granted, it's still summer, but nothing really changes in their relationship or routine. After Cheerios' practice, Santana and Brittany head over to Rachel's and hang out. Brittany will eventually go home and Santana will spend the night. Santana's mom just assumes she's at Brittany's since that's what has happened before. And because Santana doesn't want to explain Rachel, Santana lets her mother believe nothing's changed.
Brittany shows up the first day of summer Cheerios practice and greets Santana with an enthusiastic squeal. They have plenty to catch up on and so Brittany accompanies Santana to Rachel's. Santana doesn't say anything. She's not sure how to explain, but Brittany never questions, just follows her in and when Santana greets Rachel with a kiss, Brittany just waits and gives Rachel a hug after.
With school starting soon, Santana knows the inevitable relationship discussion is coming. She knows Rachel said she didn’t expect them to walk through the halls hand in hand, but part of Santana wonders if Rachel just said that to placate her. Despite Rachel's behavior during their short dating tenure, Santana is still bracing herself for the return of crazy, intense dating Rachel. Maybe when school starts.
…
"So are you and Rachel like dating?" Brittany asks after practice one day.
"Yeah."
"Oh. Is that why you and I haven't had sex?"
"It is."
"Oh, good. I was worried you were mad at me for not being around all summer."
"Not mad, B," Santana says. "You explained it all. I just missed you."
"I missed you too."
"You're okay with me and Rachel?" Santana asks, hesitantly.
"Yeah. Besides, you seem to really like her. And I just want you to be happy."
Santana is relieved. Even though she and Brittany have always been relaxed and causal about their relationship, the situation with Rachel is different than any other situation. Santana is thankful that Brittany has never pushed for commitment or even seemed to want one. For whatever reason, it doesn't seem to be something Brittany wants from her.
"Wait a minute," Santana says. "What do you mean, I really seem to like her? I mean, yeah, she's less annoying one on one and she's good in bed, but that doesn't necessarily mean I really like her."
"S, as your best friend, I just know these things," Brittany tells her. "You just need to trust me."
"Yeah, yeah," Santana grumbles. "We'll see what happens when school starts."
"You're going to stop the slushies, right?" Brittany asks. "Cause she's your girlfriend?"
"Yeah."
"Good."
…
"So as I'm sure you're aware," Rachel says. "School resumes in a couple of days. And I'd like to discuss our relationship in relation to our approach at school."
They're currently in Rachel's room and Santana is looking around for the signs of a PowerPoint presentation.
"Fine."
"You have nothing else to say?"
Santana shrugs. "I figured you have a plan."
"Well, you're welcome to comment, of course, but I definitely welcome your input as well."
"Lucky me."
"Santana, there's no need for sarcasm," Rachel admonishes. "Very well. Let me give you my plan and then we can build off it, if you feel that's necessary."
"Okay," Santana prepares herself for some elaborate scenario involving puppy calendars, charts and coupledom.
"I don't think we should be out, just yet," Rachel says.
"What?"
"I'd rather at first that we just be friends at school, because we're never going to be walking down the halls arm in arm. Also, we don't need to eat lunch together and you don't have to walk me to class. I would, however, appreciate if the bullying stopped."
"You don't want to be out?" Santana questions.
"Not right away, no."
"Why not?"
"Our relationship has been immensely insular so far and I don't know how it's going to function in the real world," Rachel explains. "I'd like to experience that first before we add the burden of everyone else's opinion."
"What? You're ashamed of me?" Santana asks.
"Of course not," Rachel replies. "I simply know how things are. And I think they acceptance of us will be easier if taken in steps. Such as us being friends as the first step."
"Are you sure this isn't about your need for a leading man?"
"Well, I'll admit that it's diminished somewhat since I haven't found a suitable candidate. Besides, why would I need one? I have you."
"I'm way better than Finn," Santana says, smugly.
"You've certainly never lied to me, which I appreciate."
"Plus I'm smokin' hot."
"That too."
Though she likes to mock Rachel for it, Santana is very glad for her strategizing. It only takes them an hour to figure out how they're going to approach each person. This is at Rachel's insistence. And what Santana finds, grudgingly, more impressive is that Rachel seems to know how they need to approach each person and has a different strategy for both of them. Because obviously individually they'd receive a different line of attack from Schuester once he finds out. Santana will, of course, be full of malicious intent while Rachel will be a delicate flower in need of saving.
"A delicate flower?" Santana mocks. "Really? I didn't realize you needed saving."
"Everyone needs to be saved at one point of their lives, Santana," Rachel replies primly. "Besides, I'm simply predicting people's reactions and then making them sound better with my superior language skills."
Santana shakes her head. "Sometimes your modesty is overwhelming."
"Once again, I’m ignoring your sarcasm. There's nothing wrong with having a positive self image."
"Is that we're calling it today?"
"Quiet you or I'll cut you off."
"Ha! As if. You want it as much as I do."
…
Santana is actually nervous about the first day of school, though she'd never admit it. She picks up Brittany first, then Rachel and they head to school. She walks into school, pinkies linked with Brittany and chatting with Rachel. They part company once they pass Rachel's locker and the Cheerios head to theirs.
She and Rachel acknowledge each other in the halls and in class, but the interaction is limited. However, Santana does start making it know that bullying Rachel will have serious consequences. She knows it might take a bit, but Santana will make sure Rachel is left alone. She at least owes her that much.
"You owe her that and more," Brittany says. "Being she's your girlfriend."
"Would you stop that? And Rachel isn't demanding all that," Santana tells her.
"Lucky you," Brittany replies. "Who would've thought that you'd be the one to relax Rachel Berry?"
"Actually, I think she's the same, just hides it a bit better now."
"She's a pretty good actress then," Brittany comments. "Cause she seems like a different person to me."
"Seriously, B?" Santana asks. "Because she still uses six words when only one is needed, plans obsessively, talks about Broadway and breaks out into song randomly."
"Yeah, but she's calmer about it."
"I'm not sure that makes sense, B."
…
Rachel sits at lunch with Kurt, Mercedes, Tina and Artie. She's quiet, letting Kurt and Mercedes dominate the conversation with first day back gossip.
"So they big glee news of the day is your apparent friendship with our resident bitch," Kurt says to Rachel.
"Please don't call her that," Rachel replies. "And it shouldn't be that big of a surprise. We hung out a bit over the summer."
"So?" Mercedes asks. "Santana Lopez at McKinley is a different beast than she was over the summer."
"It is a bit strange," Tina adds.
"Though I hear that there'll be no more slushies allowed," Artie volunteers.
"That'll be a refreshing change," Rachel comments.
The other four just stare at her.
"What?"
"We just figured you'd demand the slushies end," Kurt says.
"Demand seems like a strong word."
"And yet an accurate one," Artie says.
"Perhaps," Rachel replies. "However, all I did was make a request."
"Oh is that all?" Kurt asks. "What if she hadn't?"
"Well, she did, so why worry about it?"
"Because you're Rachel Berry," Kurt tells her.
"I'm not sure that's a valid argument," Rachel replies. "Truthfully, I don't know. It would have been dealt with if necessary."
"Rachel Berry doesn't have a contiguity plan?" Mercedes asks. "I'm not sure how I feel about that."
"Shouldn't you be glad?" Rachel questions. "Don't you guys hate it when I do that?"
"Hate seems like such a strong word," Tina says.
…
The first glee back is a mix of surprises and the usual. Will has to pinch himself to make sure he isn't seeing things when he notices Santana and Rachel sitting next to each other and looking civil. Seeing Quinn back in her Cheerios outfit is also a bit jarring.
It probably doesn’t help that Finn keeps glaring back at Santana. It's partly the reason he constantly messes up each time they attempt to dance. Of all people, it's Kurt who finally loses his temper.
"Finn! Stop staring at them and pay attention!"
Finn is shocked. He looks around and sees everyone with a similar expression on their faces. "Sorry guys."
This time he concentrates and they manage to make it through the whole song. Practice continues without any other incidents.
However when Santana and Rachel are dragged out by Brittany, everyone else can only stare after them in disbelief.
…
It occurs to Rachel as she wipes cherry slushie off her that she didn't get slushied on the first day. She wonders what changed today. She knows Santana had been putting the word out to leave her alone because she'd been avoided by most of her usual tormentors. When they saw Rachel in the halls, they moved away quickly.
At least she still brought an extra outfit; she hadn't thought the slushies would stop cold turkey.
Rachel doesn't look up when the door opens, just continues to clean up.
"You're not mad at Santana, are you Rachel?" Brittany asks.
"Why would I be mad?"
"Because you got slushied."
"Santana didn't slushie me, Britt," Rachel replies. "I fully expected them to continue for a while. Not because I don't trust Santana, but because it's difficult to immediately change the behavior of the herd."
"Oh. Good. Do you need any help?"
"Actually I believe I'm okay," Rachel says. "I just need to change."
"Okay. I'll go tell Santana you're not mad."
"Did she send you?"
"No. But she was worried."
"Tell her if she really feels that bad, she can make it up to me later," Rachel says.
"Okay," Brittany replies. "Wait. Does that mean we're not going to hang out later because you guys want to have sex?"
Rachel just smiles. "We can hang out for a while, Britt."
"Are you sure?" Brittany asks. "Because Santana gets very cranky when she doesn't get sex. Trust me."
"I do. But not hanging out with you makes her cranky too."
"That's true," Brittany nods. "Okay. See you later, Rach."
…
The jock that stupidly slushied Rachel shows up the next day with a black eye, a broken leg and his jaw wired shut.
Everybody leaves Rachel alone after that.
…
The glee kids find out on accident. One morning, a few weeks into the school year, Kurt and Mercedes are looking for Mr. Schue and walk into the choir room to find Rachel straddling Santana on the piano bench. They're only making out, but its still enough for Kurt to go running out in horror.
Santana looks over Rachel's shoulder at Mercedes while she's looking back at them in shock.
"What?" Santana growls.
"Nothing. I just--have you seen Mr. Schue?"
"Not lately."
"It's not what you think, Mercedes," Rachel says.
"I'm not thinking anything," Mercedes replies quickly.
"It's perfectly natural to make out with one's girlfriend before school, don't you think?" Rachel continues.
"Of course it is," Mercedes tells her. "I was just--wait a minute, girlfriend?"
"We're dating," Santana replies. "Got a problem with it?"
"No. No. Of course not," Mercedes says. "Okay. Well, later then." And Mercedes backs away slowly out of the room.
"Well, now we don't have to tell people," Rachel says.
"Hope you're ready."
"Do we have a choice?" Rachel asks. "Besides, the same could be said for you."
"Babe, I'm Santana fucking Lopez. This school is lucky I even show up."
"Plus you're smokin' hot."
"You know it."
…
Will can only stare after Kurt and Mercedes' retreating figures. Apparently, Santana and Rachel were making out in the choir room because their dating. For a brief moment he was sure he was dreaming. Once he establishes he's not, he decides to take matters into his own hands.
He seeks out Sue. She's in her office, reviewing a recent performance.
"Sue, we need to talk," he says walking in.
"Do we, William?" Sue replies. "Finally going to throw in the towel, are we?"
"Whatever little scheme you've got planned, cancel it," Will tells her. "Having one student take down another is just cruel and wrong. I won't stand for it."
"Judge me all you want, William, but I do what I need to, to survive. Nothing less, nothing more."
"Well, I won't let Rachel be hurt again. Santana needs to stop this, Sue, or else."
"Threats, really?" Sue replies. "Pathetic. Really pathetic."
"I'm warning you, Sue," Will says from the doorway. "End this." And then he scurries down the hall.
…
Oddly, Coach Sylvester is the first one to confront either of them about their relationship.
Santana is called into her office, alone. This is never a good sign.
"I've heard something very interesting, today, Lopez," Sue begins. "And it needs to be discussed. Now."
Santana nods and waits.
"Is it true that you are dating the glee midget?"
Santana tries not to visibly cringe. She'd been hoping to have more time before this confrontation occurred. A bottom rung Cheerio must have overheard something and ran straight to Sue. When Santana figures out who it was, they're going to do squat thrusts and suicides until they pass out; she doesn't care if she's not captain.
Trying to be nonchalant, Santana shrugs. "She's good in bed."
"But dating, Santana?" Sue presses. "That doesn't seem necessary. Especially for you."
"It's the only way she'd put out on a regular basis."
"She's simply trying to crawl out of the basement of mediocrity," Sue says. "And instead she's going to drag you down."
"Hardly," Santana scoffs. "We barely interact at school. If we hadn't been caught making out, no one would have known."
Sue ponders this a moment. "And how did you manage that?"
"I’m that good."
"All right," Sue says finally. "But I will be evaluating this affair on a regular basis. Dismissed."
…
"We need to talk, girl," Mercedes says pulling Rachel in the bathroom with Kurt.
"Must we?" Rachel replies as Kurt locks the door. "That's a fire hazard Kurt."
"This is far more important," Kurt replies.
"Fire safety is very important--"
"We need to talk about you and Santana," Mercedes says.
"Really?" Kurt is flabbergasted.
"What?" Rachel asks.
"This is going to crash and burn," Mercedes tells her.
"Fire and brimstone," Kurt adds.
"I actually started looking for other signs of an apocalypse," Mercedes continues.
"Don't you think you're being a bit dramatic?" Rachel asks.
"No," Kurt replies. "We're being realistic. She's a Cheerio and you're…you."
"I'm aware."
"She crushes people like you under her heel and then laughs."
"That was last year."
"I know Finn can be a bit thoughtless, but dating Santana seems like jumping straight into the fire," Kurt says.
"I realize how it looks," Rachel replies. "But I assure you, it's fine. And no offense intended, but why do you suddenly care?"
"I'm not in the mood for any of your relationship drama at the moment is all," Kurt tells her.
"I suppose I can understand that."
"And maybe we care about you a little," Mercedes says, nudging Kurt.
"Fine. I also don't want you to get hurt again because you've decided to start dating a lying liar."
"Well. at least Santana won't kill poor innocent chickens to humiliate me," Rachel replies.
Kurt and Mercedes just gape at her.
"Yes," Rachel says. "Well this has been informative, but I really do need to be going."
After unlocking the door, Rachel flounces out.
"The four horsemen will be galloping through the halls very soon," Kurt says.
"We should call our parents and tell them we love them before the world ends," Mercedes agrees.
…
"RuPaul, really, Santana?" Quinn says when she sits down at lunch. "Getting a bit desperate, aren't we? It was bad enough when you were being civil towards her, but this? This is unacceptable."
"Luckily, I don't need your permission," Santana snaps.
"What about the Coach's?" Quinn smirks.
"It's been discussed."
"I bet."
"Keep your opinions to yourself, Q," Santana snaps.
"Embarrassed?"
"Hardly," Santana replies. "I'm so awesome, it doesn't matter who I date, I'll still be popular. But more importantly, my girlfriend puts out. She's not some stuck up prude like some people."
"Some of us have standards."
"Or you're frigid," Santana shoots back.
"Well, at least I don't stoop to messing around with Man Hands," Quinn mocks. "You can't get much lower than that."
"She's way better in the sack than you'll ever hope to be."
"You would value that."
"I'm young and hot," Santana replies. "What else is there?"
"Hey guys," Brittany says, sitting next to Santana.
"Hey, Britt."
"What are you guys talking about?"
"And what does Brittany think about this ridiculous development?" Quinn asks.
"I'm fine with it," Brittany replies. "What development?"
"Santana and Treasure Trail," Quinn tells her.
"Oh, that. I’m fine with it."
"But what about you and Santana?" Quinn asks.
"What about us?" Brittany returns. "She's my best friend."
"The problem is, Q," Puck says sitting next to Quinn. "You're too uptight."
"God, Quinn," Santana says. "Even Puck gets it."
"Hot chicks are always something I get," Puck tells them.
"You're a pig," Quinn says.
"Whatever, baby mama, you still took a ride on the Puckerman Express, so you're not one to talk."
"Do not call me that again," Quinn tells him. "Or I will kick you in the balls. Every day until you stop."
"She would too, Puck," Brittany adds.
"Whatever, Fabray," Puck mutters. "Thought you'd be less uptight this year."
"Ha," Santana scoffs. "She'll never get that stick out of her ass."
"That sounds really uncomfortable, Quinn," Brittany says. "How do you sit down?"
"It's figurative, Britt," Santana tells her.
"Oh. Okay."
…
"What are you doing?" Finn asks, after grabbing Rachel on the way to lunch.
"Going to lunch."
"With Santana," Finn hisses. "She's only going to hurt you."
"You don't know that," Rachel tells him.
"Have you seen her and Brittany? They haven't changed one bit. They're totally still doing it. She's just using you."
"Just because she acts the same around her best friend, doesn't mean she's using me."
"God, Rachel, listen to me," Finn says. "I know we're not together anymore, but I still care about you. I don't want you to get hurt."
"Oh? That's interesting," Rachel replies. "Because you know what Santana did for me already this year, which you certainly never did? She got people to leave me alone. I haven't had a slushie thrown in my face since the second day. And that was only because he was trying to get back at Santana. I certainly haven't received one since. You never once stood up for me."
"That's not true," Finn protests. "I stood up for you lots of times. It's just, you were never around."
"And all those times I was around and you didn't stand up for me?" Rachel questions. "How am I supposed to interpret those?"
"Those guys are my friends, Rach. I didn't want them to think I was some whipped, pathetic wuss."
"Except you are Finn," Rachel says. "You're just whipped by your need to be popular."
"Santana's done plenty to you in the name of popularity," Finn points out.
"At least she didn't lie to me for months."
"What?"
"You remember when you and I talked about Jesse?" Rachel asks. "That would have been the perfect opportunity to share that you were no longer a virgin."
"What are you talking about?"
"I know you slept with Santana."
"What? No, I--"
"Don't bother," Rachel snaps. "I can't believe I gave myself to you."
"It didn't count," Finn insists. "Once it was over, I knew it didn't count. You and I, that counted."
"And yet you broke up with me over sex," Rachel continues.
"Are you mad that it was Santana?" Finn questions. "I was just so sick of everyone looking down on me for it, so I jumped at the first chance I got."
"I don't care who it was with."
"And we weren't even together," Finn points out.
"I know."
"So you have no right to be angry with me."
"I have no right to be angry with you?" It is obvious, even to Finn, that Rachel is quietly seething at the moment.
"I mean, would you have slept with me if you'd known? I couldn't tell you."
"So you just wanted to have sex? I can't believe you. Did you even love me?"
"Of course I did. I still do," Finn replies. "I wouldn't have said it if I didn't mean it."
"How am I supposed to trust you? You just admitted that you lied to get into my pants. I don't even know you."
"Of course you do," Finn says. "I’m the same guy I've always been. This information shouldn't change anything."
"You're right about one thing. You are the same guy you've always been. That's the problem," Rachel says. "I need to go, Finn." And Rachel pushes him backwards and walks away.
"Rachel," Finn calls. "C'mon, Rach, don't be like that."
…
Will has spent most of last period watching Rachel and Santana's interaction, or rather their lack of interaction. For two people who claim to be dating, they barely acknowledge each other's existence in class. It raises warning flags. So Will has Santana stay after class to talk.
"I'll get right to the point, Santana," Will begins. "I want you to stay away from Rachel."
"No offense, Mr. Schue, but you're not mine or Berry's father, so you don't really get to make those sort of demands."
"Rachel needs someone looking out for her here," Will tells Santana.
"Yeah. You're doing a bang up job so far, Mr. Schue," Santana scoffs.
"This from one of her main torturers."
"Yeah. So? People can't change?"
"Of course they can," Will replies. "But I have my doubts about the followers of Sue Sylvester."
"Your issues with Coach Sylvester aren't my concern," Santana replies. "Rachel has forgiven me and that's what matters."
"Rachel can be too trusting," Will says.
"Did you give this speech to your golden boy?" Santana asks. "Because he's hurt Rachel plenty over the last year. Did you jump to her defense back then?"
"The difference is intent," Will shoots back. "Finn didn't have the spiteful objective you always seem to have."
"Yes, being thoughtless and inconsiderate is much better."
"He cares about her," Will replies.
"And I don't?" Santana asks. "If this was just a roll in the sack, why would I go through all this? I don't have any problems finding sexual partners. I mean, just look at me."
"Santana."
"Look, Mr. Schue, I'm sure Rachel appreciates your concern, but there's no reason for it. She and I haven't gotten along in the past, but we worked it out and that's all you need to know."
"I'll be watching you," Will tells her.
"That doesn't sound too creepy or anything, Mr. Schue," Santana replies. "Are we done?"
Will sighs. "Yes we're done."
…
Because of Mr. Schuester's little talk, the halls are mostly cleared by the time Santana reaches her locker. They have glee this afternoon, so she just stuffs her things in her locker. She'll get her books later.
"Whatever you've got planned, it's not going to work," Finn tells Santana as he walks up behind her.
"Like usual, I don't know what you're talking about. Nor do I care," Santana replies.
"Whatever you're doing with Rachel has got to stop," Finn says.
"Jealous?" Santana sneers. "I'll tell you one thing, Berry's a lot better in bed than you. Even her first time and, as I'm sure you're not aware, she's a screamer."
Finn growls at her.
"Plus she does this thing with her tongue--"
Santana finds herself pressed up against the lockers.
"Gonna hit me, Hudson?" Santana smirks. "You know you want to."
"You deserve it," Finn tells her.
"Why? Because I took away your v-card?" Santana mocks. "Or because I took your girlfriend?"
Finn's fist slamming into the locker just left of Santana's head echoes loudly in the hallway.
"Feel better?" Santana taunts. "This has been fun." She pushes him away. "But I'm going to find my girlfriend and see if she wants a quickie before glee. Later loser." And Santana walks away leaving Finn fuming behind her.
…
When Will arrives for glee that afternoon, he drags Rachel outside for a talk. Literally.
"Mr. Schuester, this physicality is unnecessary. If you wanted to talk, you simply had to say so."
"I'm worried about you, Rachel," he tells her.
"Whatever for?"
"Santana, really?"
"Mr. Schue, I am fully aware that as a teenager it may seem that I have impaired judgment, but let me assure you, it's fine."
"How can you trust her?" Will asks.
"That's between she and I," Rachel replies.
"You have to know it's a plot," Will continues. "Her and Coach Sylvester are up to something. They're still trying to destroy me--us--glee."
"You are certainly entitled to your opinion," Rachel tells him. "But not everything is about you or glee. Sometimes things just happen."
"I just don't want to see you get hurt, Rachel," Will says.
"I'm sure you believe that, Mr. Schue," Rachel replies. "But if that was really true, my life would be significantly different. I think what you mean is that you don't want me to be hurt by anyone working for Coach Sylvester. I realize that she most likely started this little war you have going, but that doesn't mean you have to continue it."
"Rachel, my issues with Coach Sylvester aren't the problem here--"
"Are you sure?" Rachel questions. "When you found out I was dating Noah, you didn't say anything. And he's thrown dozens of slushies at me."
"That's different."
"How?"
"Because," Will says. "Because Puck is Puck and Santana is Santana."
"That isn't an argument."
"Because I'm fairly certain Puck's only goal was to get into your pants," Will tries. "Where as Santana's goal is most likely more sinister and cruel."
"So you're worried about what? My feelings? But not my virtue?"
"I'm confident that if you weren't comfortable with something Puck proposed, you would say so," Will tells her. "But Santana will have no problems manipulating you into some twisted and vicious situation."
"So you weren't concerned because Noah isn't as intelligent as Santana?"
"That's not what I--stop twisting my words, Rachel," Will sputters.
"I'm simply trying to understand, Mr. Schue," Rachel says.
"I just want you to be careful," Will tells her. "Approach this cautiously."
"Well, why didn't you just say so?" Rachel questions. "That is always sound advice."
"Rachel, I just--"
"Mr. Schue, I hate to be rude," Rachel interrupts. "But we're wasting valuable glee time out here."
Will sighs. "I suppose you're right. Just…be careful."
"Thank you, Mr. Schue." And Rachel flounces into the room ahead of him.
…
Everyone tries to look occupied when Rachel and Mr. Schuester enter. They'd all heard the muffled argument outside, but no one could make out what was being said; though they all have a pretty good idea what the topic was.
Rachel enters first, followed by Mr. Schuester. Rachel looks her usual exuberant glee self, while Mr. Schuester looks a bit downtrodden.
Instead of sitting, Rachel stands at the front of the room and waits for everyone's attention. When they quiet down, she motions to Santana, who reluctantly joins her.
"It's apparent you've all heard. And I cannot handle any more confrontations, so let's just get it over with. If you have an opinion about our relationship, now is the time to voice it. After this, I will simply walk away."
Puck raises his hand.
Smiling, Rachel says, "Yes?"
"If you're ever looking to toss a little meat in, let me know. The Puckasauras knows how to show girls a good time. S knows."
"Puck that is completely inappropriate," Will says.
"I appreciate your disgusting candor, Noah," Rachel says. "But I'll have to decline."
Puck shrugs. "Your loss."
"Definitely your loss, Puckerman," Santana snarks.
"Yes, well, thank you for that, Santana," Rachel says. "Anyone else?"
Mike raises his hand.
"Mike?"
"Does this mean Rachel and Santana will be singing all the leads now?"
Snickering fills the room.
"Real funny, Chang," Santana says.
He just smiles and shrugs at her.
"Anyone else?" Rachel asks.
"Just sit down already, Stubbles," Quinn calls out. "Leave it to you to find another way to draw attention to yourself."
"The name calling stops now, Fabray," Santana growls. "That goes for everyone. They stop now or else."
"Santana," Will interjects. "I won't tolerate blatant threats."
"Then maybe you should have said something similar," Santana shoots back. "You done, babe?"
"I believe so, yes," Rachel replies. "I suppose we can sit down."
Rachel laces their fingers and leads Santana to the empty chairs next to Brittany.
"Okay. Now that that's figured out, should we start?" Will suggests.
…
Thankfully, the others stop questioning the relationship out loud. Rachel's not delusional enough to think they don't discuss it outside of her presence. But they don't bring it up to Santana or Rachel.
They do, however, bring it up with Brittany.
Kurt has Brittany join him, Mercedes, Tina and Artie for lunch one day to question her. It doesn't yield the results Kurt is hoping for. Because of her solitary summer, Brittany didn't see the evolution of the relationship. She simply tells them that Santana likes Rachel.
"Well we did figure that out," Kurt tells her. "We were looking for more dirt."
"Have you tried outside?"
"Why?"
"That's usually where I find dirt," Brittany replies.
"Brittany," Tina says. "Kurt was hoping for more specific details about Santana and Rachel."
"Oh. I don't think I have any."
"Aren't you and Santana still best friends?" Mercedes asks.
"Of course," Brittany replies. "But we just go to Rachel's after school and hang out. And then sometimes Santana will stay while I leave and sometimes she won't."
"That's it?" Artie asks.
"How often does Santana tell Rachel to shut up when she's talking too much?" Mercedes asks.
"Never," Brittany replies.
"Never?" Kurt reiterates.
"Never. But Rachel doesn't talk that much."
"Wait, what?" Kurt asks.
"I do most of the talking," Brittany continues.
"Are we in the Twilight Zone?" Artie asks.
"Thanks, Brittany," Tina says before Kurt suffers a heart attack. He's clenching his chest in shock.
"Okay. Bye guys."
"What the hell is going on?" Kurt manages.
"Maybe we should just drop it," Tina says.
"T's right," Mercedes says. "Besides, I'm sure it'll all be revealed soon enough. We warned Rachel, if she doesn't want to listen to us, then there's nothing we can do."
"Maybe there's nothing to be revealed," Tina suggests.
"It's Santana," Kurt says. "There has to be."
…
Quinn corners Brittany one day before lunch.
"So, B, tell me the truth," she starts. "What's Santana's scheme?"
"Scheme for what?"
"Her and Treasure Trail."
"You're not supposed to call Rach that anymore," Brittany points out.
"What Santana doesn't know won't hurt me," Quinn replies.
"I could tell her," Brittany offers.
"Please don’t, Britt. Just tell me what Santana plans on doing with Berry."
"They're dating."
"I'm aware of that, B," Quinn says. "But there's no way Santana would just start dating Berry when she's already got a perfectly good hot Cheerio to make out with."
"Really?" Brittany asks. "Who?"
"You, Britt."
"Oh. I don't know. Maybe she wanted some commitment."
"Once again, what's wrong with you?"
"I don't want commitment," Brittany answers.
"Why not?"
"We're in high school, silly."
"So?"
"I'm not looking for serious right now," Brittany tells her.
"Oh."
"That's why Santana and I decided sex isn't dating," Brittany explains. "Because we still like being with each other."
"You don't have to explain it to me, Britt," Quinn tells her.
"I do," Brittany argues. "I know what you think. That me and Santana sleep around too much, but how are you supposed to know what you like if you don't try stuff? Plus I'm not great at the school stuff, so I just concentrate on other things."
"Britt."
"Rachel and Santana like each other. That's all that matters. And S is my best friend, which Rachel respects and even indulges, so I support them. So maybe you can at least try to be civil to Rachel and not call her all those names anymore. Santana and I would really appreciate it."
"Fine. I promise I'll try," Quinn says. "But don't expect immediate results."
"Thanks Q." Brittany gives Quinn a hug and runs off.
…
Mr. Schuester asks Brittany to stop by his office over lunch. When she does, she finds him and Finn talking quietly. She knocks. They both look up guiltily and Brittany wonders what she's in store for.
"Brittany, hi," Will says. "Come in. Have a seat." She does. "Finn and I wanted to ask you something."
"Okay."
"We were just wondering why Santana is dating Rachel," Will tells her.
"Because she likes her," Brittany answers.
"I'm sorry, Brittany, but I just have a hard time believing that," Will says.
"Why?"
"Because Santana's never really liked Rachel and now suddenly she does?"
Brittany shrugs. "I guess. I wasn't there when they became friends."
"Santana has to be up to something," Finn says.
"Why?"
"Because she's Santana."
"She just likes Rachel," Brittany insists.
"Is it possible that Santana has something planned and just hasn't told you?" Will asks.
Brittany thinks it over for a moment. "No."
"Then explain to me what is going on," Finn says.
"Duh. They like each other." Brittany doesn't understand why everyone keeps asking her. It seems obvious to her.
"All right. Thanks, Brittany," Will says. "You can go."
"See you later, Mr. Schue. Finn." And Brittany skips out.
…
Rachel is pushed into Coach Sylvester's office by two Cheerios as she walks by.
"Yentl."
"Coach Sylvester."
"It seems you've managed to corrupt one of my protégés. This is simply unacceptable. Especially because from what I can see, you're nothing special."
"Santana seems to think so."
"She does indeed," Sue agrees. "And now all I have to do is figure out, why."
"I'm quite flexible and willing to experiment in bed," Rachel replies, primly.
"Yes, that would do it," Sue agrees. "Girl is driven by her libido. She's worse than Mohawk in that regard."
"Perhaps."
"Still, I'll be keeping an eye on you," Sue continues. "Whatever plot you have, isn't going to work."
"I'm not plotting anything."
"You do have that doe eyed act down, I will say that," Sue says. "But don't think for one minute that I'm falling for it. There's a schemer's brain in that little head of yours and I don't trust you one bit."
"I could say the same about you, Coach."
"Remember. I'll be watching you, Rosalyn."
"Noted," Rachel says before leaving.
…
"People are weird," Brittany announces to Santana and Rachel as the three of them study that afternoon.
"What makes you say that?" Rachel asks.
"Everybody keeps asking me what you guys are doing," Brittany answers. "And I tell them, dating, duh."
"It just took everyone by surprise," Rachel explains.
"That's because they don't see you guys like this," Brittany says, gesturing to how closely Rachel and Santana are sitting, legs tangled together. "If they did, it'd make sense."
Rachel and Santana look at each other and then back to Britt.
"No way," Santana says.
"Absolutely not," Rachel agrees.
Brittany sighs. "Okay. But if people keep bugging me about it, I'm going to start taking pictures to show people."
"Just don't tell Noah," Rachel says. "Or he'll ask for naked ones."
"He won't if he knows what's good for him," Santana growls.
"Ahhh, protective San is so cute," Brittany says, pulling Santana in for a hug.
"I am not cute," Santana grouses.