fic: Ambitions Trilogy Part Two: I Can, Therefore I Am - Part Four
Title: Ambitions Trilogy Part Two: I Can, Therefore I Am - Part Four
Author: slacker_d
Pairing/Characters: Rachel/Santana, OCs, Mike/OFC, Beth, Shelby, Puck, Brittany
Rating: R
Summary: 2021 to 2035 in Rachel and Santana's lives together.
Disclaimer: Not mine. Also, any real celebrities used are purely for entertainment. I know nothing about any of these people and am simply manipulating them for my own devices.
Word Count: ~5,200 (this part) / ~41,100 (total)
Spoilers: Previous parts of this series and season 1 of glee
A/N: Part two, finally. For helionwolfchild. Because even though she only posted one update of Talk Too Much instead of the promised two, it was still awesome. Plus, the initial motivation of the "deal" was enough to keep me on track with this fic. Title is a quote by Simone Weil.
2nd A/N: All real actors used were chosen because their age would match what it would be when this fic actually takes place. Also, once again, anything I didn't know (mostly anything related to lawyer-ing) was researched on the interweb, so I apologize if I've gotten things wrong.
3rd A/N: Unbeta’ed, so all mistakes are mine.
Part One | Part Two | Part Three
Part Four
Winter 2026
Santana is called into Yarr's office on the first of December. The secretary just waves her by, telling her she can just go in. So Santana knocks and enters.
Yarr is on the phone, so he motions her in and points to a chair. Santana nods and sits. She tries to ignore his conversation, even if she's curious. Just because Yarr likes her, doesn't mean he'll appreciate her eavesdropping.
"Lopez," Yarr says, hanging up his phone.
"Sir."
"We're at the next step."
"Sir?"
"Congratulations. You're transferring to the Hate Crime Unit."
"Already? It's only been three years," Santana questions.
Yarr raises an eyebrow. "You're turning it down?"
"Of course not, sir," Santana replies. "I'm just a bit surprised."
"Why? I told you I had my eye on you," Yarr tells her. "Besides everyone agrees you've done an excellent job with the CSU."
"You did, sir," Santana nods. "But I also don't want people to think…"
"Everyone knows you deserve this, Lopez," Yarr says.
"Everyone?"
"Well, maybe not Rob," Yarr chuckles. "But the influential ones? They do."
"All right," Santana says slowly. "As long as you're not telling people, I let you sleep with my wife. Me? Fine. But leave Rachel out of this."
Yarr lets out a loud laugh.
Santana does her best to keep her face neutral as she waits for a verbal response.
"If I ever had a moment of questioning you, Lopez," Yarr says finally. "It's gone out the fucking window. I will never doubt I made the right choice in you again. Indeed not."
"Good."
"You start the beginning of the year," Yarr informs her.
"Thank you, sir."
"Have a productive day."
Santana nods and hurries out of the room.
…
By the time the holiday party rolls around, everyone knows that Santana is going to be the main prosecutor for the Hate Crime Unit in two weeks.
The reaction is mixed. Most people congratulate her; some people shun her. Santana wonders if they believe she slept with Yarr; despite being out and married.
Meanwhile, Rob Deerfield has spend the entire evening sneering at her.
Feeling more secure about her place in the office, she and Rachel aren't working the room nearly as thoroughly as previous years.
Though it was necessary and definitely yielded results, Santana finds it nice to spend a holiday party with Rachel.
Plus Rachel is looking fucking hot and it's taking every ounce of will power Santana has resisting the urge to drag Rachel into the bathroom and bury her head between her legs. Because knowing her wife, Santana feels confident that Rachel is going commando this evening. She can be such a tease that way.
"Stop staring at my ass," Rachel whispers.
"I can't help it," Santana hisses back. "Have you seen yourself in that dress?"
Rachel smirks.
Santana groans. "You're not wearing panties, are you?"
"Why do you ask questions you don't want to know the answer to?" Rachel teases.
Santana groans again. "I guess I'm just a glutton for punishment."
"Don't worry, you'll be rewarded later."
Santana's reply is cut off by the arrival of Rob Deerfield. If she didn't hate her already, Santana would definitely despise him now.
"Lopez."
"Deerfield."
"Hello Rob," Rachel greets cheerfully.
Rob shoots her a look of surprise.
Rachel, of course, is fully aware of how Santana and Deerfield feel about each other, but they both agreed that it's best for Rachel to just "Rachel Berry" him until he at least likes Rachel. Santana is doubtful, but believes in Rachel. While Rachel sees it as a challenge to relish.
"Hi Ms. Berry."
"Rachel, please, Rob," Rachel replies. "We talked about this."
"Sure. Right. I, uh, forgot."
Rachel giggles a bit. "It's all right."
Santana barely holds back a snort of disbelief. Rachel is really laying it on think tonight.
"Everyone's wondering what you did to get into that open spot in Hate Crime."
"What the fuck is that supposed to mean?" Santana growls.
"San, language," Rachel chastises.
"It means exactly how it sounds, Lopez," Rob snaps.
"You're treading into dangerous territory, Deerfield," Santana warns.
"Worried your wife will find out what you're really like?"
"Actually, I've seen much worse," Rachel interjects.
Rob stares at her.
"However," Rachel continues. "I feel confident that San didn't do what you're insinuating."
"I…"
"Also I find the fact that you'd make that accusation in front of Santana's wife, fascinating. Especially since it's mindless office gossip based out of jealousy and boredom."
Ignoring Santana for a moment, Rob turns to Rachel. "Rachel, I apologize. That was rather insensitive." He then turns to Santana. "But I still think the rumor has merit."
"You would," Santana mumbles.
"Perhaps I'll go get a drink," Rachel says. "Would you like a refill, dear?"
Santana nods, watching Rachel glide away.
"You're a real prick, Deerfield," Santana growls.
"Well you're a fucking cunt, Lopez."
Santana grins menacingly. "You have no fucking idea, Deerfield."
He actually looks afraid for a brief moment, but quickly schools his features. But it's too late, Santana has seen her advantage.
Rachel returns with two glasses and hands one to Santana.
"C'mon babe," Santana says to Rachel. "Let's find some better company."
"Nice to see you Rob," Rachel says as Santana drags her away.
Linking their fingers together, Santana chuckles.
"God you are so fucking perfect."
Rachel smiles. "So much cursing," she teases. "You must really mean it."
Santana grins back. "You know what seeing you like this does to me."
"Why do you think Beth and Abby are staying at Kelly and Ryan's tonight?"
"Happy holidays to me."
Winter 2027
Despite having already run her own department, Santana is still a bit nervous. The HCU is a completely different beast than the CSU. At least she has her professionalism to hide behind.
Baptism by fire is the best way to describe it, but Santana wouldn't have it any other way. "Learning" on the run, Rachel calls it. Santana blames Coach Sylvester for making her learn best like that, since that was her favorite way of teaching.
Either way, at the end of the long day, Santana is confident that she can do this. Hell, she's Santana fucking Lopez. She can do anything; no one else should argue that fact.
Spring 2027
Beth's high school graduation is bittersweet. Santana knows the girl is thrilled to be done with high school, but the sadness of not having her mother present, definitely shows.
Still she keeps a smile on her face through the ceremony and pictures.
Remembering their own high school graduation, both Rachel and Santana agree to let Beth stay out past curfew. Rachel has a list of rules though. The first being, keep your cell phone with her at all times. The rest are in relation to being stupid while drinking.
"And last, but certainly not least," Rachel says. "If for whatever reason you need assistance, call us."
"Okay."
"I'm serious, Beth," Rachel continues. "A lot of bad things could happen tonight."
"Like getting pregnant," Santana quips.
Rachel ignores her. "I don't care what is going on, if you need us, call. I don't care if you're drunk or lost in the sewer or get caught in a Halifax Gibbet, call us."
"I promise Rachel," Beth replies. Wait, lost in the sewer? And what's a Halifax Gibbet?"
"Never mind," Rachel says quietly.
Beth looks to Santana.
"Those are stories for another time, kiddo," Santana says finally.
A bit baffled, Beth nods. "I promise I'll be okay. But… thanks, for, you know."
"have a good time," Santana tells her.
"Be safe," Rachel reminds her.
Autumn 2027
Beth's college of choice is NYU. Both Rachel and Santana were concerned, but Beth's therapist assured them both that it's fine. And it's not as if Rachel can disagree with Beth; New York is the best city to attend college in. And NYU is a great school.
The move Beth into her dorm room on a hot August Saturday. Rachel has taken the day off and Santana isn't on call, so they're both confident that between the four of them, they can get Beth settled in a few hours.
Rachel feels oddly sad. The girls have only been with them for three years, but she's really gotten used to them being around. Not seeing Beth studying at the dining room table or arguing with Santana about what to watch on TV, may take some adjustment.
Santana feels the same way, though they've barely talked about it. Despite protesting being any sort of parental figure towards Beth or Abby, they have both occasionally fallen into the role.
Abby bounces between being sad over Beth's departure and excited to have her own space. Because of this, or maybe because she's fifteen, she's not exactly helpful during the whole moving process.
When they're finally finished, the room falls somber. It feels like a much larger separation than a few dozen blocks.
"Well you know where to find us, if you need anything, kiddo," Santana says, giving Beth a quick hug.
"Keep in touch," Abby says.
"You too, punk," Beth replies, pulling her in for a brief hug.
Beth turns to Rachel, who feels a bit tearful.
"I don't know why I'm like this," Rachel apologizes.
"It's fine," Beth replies. They hug. "I feel it too."
Rachel smiles. "Remember to stay safe and have fun, but don't forget about school."
"Thanks Rach. For like, you know, everything."
"Well, we're sisters, right?"
Beth smiles. "Right."
…
Just after Labor Day, Rachel receives an odd call from her agent, Gretchen Tam. She'd been working out, so it's a voicemail
"Rachel, darling, it's Gretchn. I've been hearing some interesting rumors lately and so I need you to do something for me. I need you to pick an end date for Music Man. And it has to be before the end of the year. Trust me. I know you're probably wondering what the fuck I'm talking about, so call me the instant you get this message. Toodles."
Gretchen knows her well. Piquing Rachel's curiosity is the best way to have her call back quickly. Sighing at her predictability, she dials her agent.
"Go for Gretchen," she answers
"Good morning, Gretchen, it's Rachel Berry."
"Ah, yes, Rachel, darling, thanks for calling back so quickly."
"Well, I'm curious as to why I should quit Music Man already," Rachel replies.
"Because I've been hearing confirmations of rumors of a show that you have to do."
"Okay."
"And before you say no," Gretchen continues. "Hear me out."
"Why would I say no?" Rachel asks.
"Because it's not a musical."
"Oh."
"There's a ton of buzz about the production," Gretchen explains. Matthew Gray Gubler is directing. It's his first stage direction and people are expecting great things."
"He did an amazing job with A Stroll in the Park and Kickstart," Rachel agrees.
"And one of the male roles is already cast."
"Have there been auditions?"
"No, but it seems he and Gubler have worked together before and saw this as a chance to work together again."
"Well who is it?"
"Evan Peters," Gretchen replies.
"He was nominated for an Oscar last year," Rachel says.
"For Buoyancy. Plus he has an Emmy," Gretchen adds.
"What's the play?"
"It's called Three Days of Rain and I emailed you the script. Read it over and let me know what you think," Gretchen says. "But either way, I'm going to get you an audition."
"And what is the play about?"
"Just read it," Gretchen tells her. "It'll be easier than me trying to explain it. It's a very small cast, though. Just three characters, two men and a woman."
Rachel thinks over her schedule for the day and it's pretty light, so she says, "Fine. I'll read it. But you'll definitely be hearing from me later."
"I wouldn't expect anything else, darling," Gretchen replies.
Rachel's already logging into her email by the time she's done talking to Gretchen. She tries not to smile when she reads the subject line of the email.
URGENT! IMPORTANT! LIFE CHANGING! OPEN NOW! I MEAN IT!!!
Rachel wonders how she was able to find an agent as melodramatic as she is. She prints the script, letting it fall out of the printer as she goes off to shower.
…
Several hours later, Rachel is back on the phone with Gretchen.
"I'd say I told you so," Gretchen says. "But I'm not that big of a bitch."
"Are you sure?" Rachel asks.
Gretchen chuckles. "So you're fine with me getting you an audition?"
"Set it up," Rachel says. "I'll be there."
"Do you have any non musical audition pieces?" Gretchen asks. "Because you have to get this part, darling. I just have a feeling."
"I have a couple, but they'll definitely need some work," Rachel admits.
"Okay. Well get on it, darling," Gretchen replies. "We're on an accelerated timeline here."
"As soon as we're done talking."
"Good. Then I'm going to let you go. But remember, the clock is ticking."
"Good bye Gretchen."
…
When Santana arrives home, it's obvious that Rachel's found herself a new project. There are all sorts of books and scripts lying around her laptop. The computer itself is closed, but sitting on top is a stack of paper that Rachel has obviously gone through. It's already covered with ideas and notes. Curious, she picks it up and begins reading.
…
Rachel comes home to find Santana in bed reading the script Gretchen emailed.
"So you're doing this?" Santana asks.
"Well, Gretchen's getting me an audition," Rachel replies.
"Even though it's not a musical?"
"I can do non musical Broadway," Rachel defends.
"I know," Santana says. "I just didn't expect you to, is all."
"What do you think of it?"
"It's a great scrip and a great part, but there's gotta be more than that. I know you."
Rachel nods. "The director and the actor playing Walker/Ned. Gretchen says there's quite a buzz. I asked around. She's not wrong."
"I never thought you'd be swayed by buzz."
"It's not just the buzz," Rachel retorts. "The buzz got me to read the script. The script made me want an audition."
"Fair enough. But it'd be weird to see you on stage, not singing."
"Agreed.
…
Rachel's audition isn't what she expected. Instead of an actual audition, it's a conversation between her, Matthew Gray Gubler and Evan Peters. They discuss the play, the characters, the story and what Matthew plans to do with it. They all seem to be on the same page and the ideas start flowing. Matthew has a yellow legal pad and scribbles notes as fast as he can, as the discussion flows.
After an hour, they collectively pause and take a breather. Rachel feels like she's just participated in a marathon.
"Well, thank you for coming in, Rachel," Matthew says, standing.
"You don't want me to read?"
"Why? I know what you can do. I doubt seeing you read will alter my mind one way or another."
"Uh, all right."
"Don't worry," Evan assures her. "It's a good thing. He's confident in your talent. He's assuming you can do the part. Now he just has to figure out if you meet the criteria he has in mind."
"Oh."
"Yeah. If he has you read, it usually means you're not getting the part," Evan continues. "I've noticed that everyone he has read, he'll later tell me is a definite no. He hasn't done that for the ones he doesn't have read."
"All right. I'll try to think of this as a positive audition then."
"I would," Evan assures her. He holds out his hand. "It was nice to meet you. I hope we get to work together."
Rachel smiles and shakes his hand. "Me too."
…
Rachel manages to finish the phone conversation with Matthew relatively calm. She lets out some of her excitement because she wants Matthew to know how pleased she is, but she doesn't let out a full scream until once she's hung up.
She literally dances around the living room. Rachel's anticipation of this project has grown exponentially. Talking with Matthew and Evan, realizing they all share the same vision for the play made her really want the part.
"Hey, baby," Rachel says on Santana's voicemail. "I know you're in court, but I want you to be the first to know. Matthew just called me. I got the part! Can you believe it? I gotta go. I'm too excited, I gotta call Mike. Bye."
…
At the first rehearsal they do a read through and Rachel meets the third cast member, Austin Zimmer. He has just finished a very successful run of a modernized Hamlet as Laertes that no one thought would do well, but had actually been nominated for a Tony.
Once the read through is finished, they discuss the play. Matthew describes his vision and talks a bit what the set and costume are going to be like. He in turn, has each actor talk about their characters and the history they've created.
It feels like a productive first rehearsal to Rachel. Once again she says a silent thank you to Gretchen for pushing her towards this.
…
Santana loves it because for a few months, Rachel is home at night. She always knew that their demanding schedules would limit the time they see together and Santana is fine with that, for the most part. That doesn't mean she won't enjoy every moment that Rachel is home the same time she is. Despite the demands of running her own unit, Santana makes a real effort to leave the office at a decent hour.
She compensates by doing some work at home. Rachel doesn't mind, understanding the need to just soak up each other's presence. So while Rachel learns her lines, Santana works and at least a dozen times one or the other will look up, see their spouse and smile before returning to their work.
Winter 2027
They open to rave reviews. Santana can't believe how much everyone loves the play. Rachel has a stack of papers and articles on the dining room table that is probably going to be a foot tall by the time she's finished. Not that Santana blames her. Even though Music Man was very well received, it didn't receive the kind of hype Three Days of Rain is. There's even talk of Tony nominations.
Santana is there, of course, opening night. Rachel made sure to get her the best seat in the house, which Santana finds adorable. It was a nice surprise, when she stopped by the box office this evening. Santana's glad she had two dozen pink roses delivered to Rachel's dressing room earlier in the day. It's a tradition she started as soon as they got together, despite not always having the funds to do it.
…
Rachel is a bigger draw than usual this year. Apparently everyone has seen Rachel in Three Days of Rain and none of her coworkers can help but want to share their praise with her wife. Not that Santana minds; she knows how much Rachel loves all the accolades. Besides, it's just one more thing to love about Rachel. And neither wants to let such an advantage fall away.
She's getting another drink when Jules Embry joins her.
"Good thing you're not the jealous type," Jules quips, pointing to the crowd around Rachel.
Santana chuckles. "Oh, I definitely am. But I trust Rachel."
"It's your fault for marrying such a commodity."
"Rachel's good for my image," Santana agrees.
Jules raises an eyebrow.
"And I love her more than anything," Santana adds.
Jules smiles. "Awww. There's the old softy I was looking for."
"Because I love my wife?" Santana questions.
"Considering I've seen you make a fucking serial rapist cry on the stand, I'd say yes."
Santana shakes her head. "You work too much, Embry."
"That's the pot calling the kettle black, Lopez."
Santana smirks and they settle into a comfortable silence.
"Why is Deerfield looking at you with daggers in his eyes?" Jules asks eventually.
"Because I have everything he wants in life and he's pissed," Santana explains.
"So he's jealous of your marriage? Or your career?"
"Career, definitely," Santana replies. "Marriage? Couldn't say. Maybe."
"Hmph. It's his own fault," Jules says. "He tries too damn hard. It's… off putting."
"That's the nicest way of calling him a douche bag I've ever heard," Santana laughs.
Jules shrugs. "I've dealt with worse."
"Me too."
"What are chatting about ladies?"
Both Santana and Jules turn slightly to find Eric Yarr standing behind them.
"Jules here was just confirming what a piece of work Rob is," Santana replies.
"I wasn't… I mean, that's not exactly…"
"Relax, Embry," Yarr says. "Lopez just likes to see you sweat."
"Hey I was just being honest," Santana replies. "It's not my fault that Jules doesn't realize you'd know more than most what an asshat Rob is."
"Indeed. Considering all the back stabbing around her," Yarr says. "I would have thought you'd be so surprised, Embry."
"Apparently drinking around my coworkers makes me paranoid," Jules retorts.
"Too bad," Yarr replies. "Drinking is the only way to get through these things."
"We could stop having them," Santana suggests. "There are at least 10 other things I'd rather be doing."
"Really?" Yarr asks. "I can only think of one."
Santana grins. "Please don't tell me, sir."
"Get your mind out of the gutter, Lopez."
"Right."
Jules watches the exchange in amazement. If she didn't know better, she'd believe the rumor that Santana had sex with Yarr. But seeing how Santana adores her wife, Jules can't see her doing it.
"Have you talked to her yet?" Santana asks Yarr.
"What?"
"I know you want to," Santana continues.
"Your wife is very talented," is all Yarr says.
"She'd love to hear that from you, boss."
Yarr shakes his head. If I don't speak with her, I'm sure you can give her my regards."
"Fair enough, sir."
Once Yar has left them alone, Jules can only stare at Santana in disbelief.
After a couple minutes, Santana gets fed up.
"What?"
"If I didn't know better, I'd think you two fucked."
"You're lucky you started that sentence the way you did, Embry," Santana retorts.
"I just mean you're a little too relaxed around him."
"If we had slept together, do you think we'd act like that?" Santana questions.
"I suppose not."
"He's relaxed around me and so I respond accordingly," Santana explains.
"Why?"
"You'd have to ask him that," Santana replies.
"Yeah. I'll get right on that, Lopez," Jules sighs.
Spring 2028
Despite all the buzz surrounding the show, Rachel still surprised when she's nominated for Best Actress in a Play for Three Days of Rain. It's certainly not how she imagined earning her first Tony nomination, but she's not complaining.
For some reason, Santana finds it hilarious that Rachel's first Tony nomination isn't for a musical. She figures it's because Santana knows of Rachel's favorite daydream in high school, which was Rachel staring in a revival of Wicked or Cabaret and winning her first award for that. Santana also knows that no one, herself included, expected the Tony to be the third award Rachel was nominated for.
The girls are pretty excited, especially since Abby looked up what EGOT actually meant.
Rachel's glad that the ceremony is in New York, so there shouldn't be any question of Santana accompanying her. She may have joked about Santana being her good luck charm, but in reality, she does consider her wife her lucky charm. For reasons she can't explain, Rachel doesn't want anyone else with her. She just can't imagine having anyone but her wife seated next to her.
Santana, of course, finds it amusing to play hard to get. Unlike before, she doesn't really have a good excuse, but she doesn't let that stop her. She just an't help it. Her wife is so damn adorable when she's pouting.
Finally Rachel can't take it anymore. "Santana!" she yells. "You're going with me. This is not a discussion. It's right here in the city on a weekend, so you have no excuse. So stop smirking and just agree!"
"Rach…"
"I mean it, San. Or no sex ever again."
"We can hear you quite clearly!" Beth calls out from the living room.
"So?!" Santana calls back. She turns to Rachel. "You wouldn't."
"Wouldn't I?"
"You do realize that I'm just messing with you, right babe?"
This earns Santana a very hard punch to the shoulder.
”That isn't nice. Or fair. Or nice."
"You said nice already," Abby calls from the living room.
"We can still hear you," Beth adds.
"Shut up and watch your stupid show, Corcoran," Santana shouts back.
"Just kiss and make up so we can have some peace and quiet!" Abby yells back.
"Make me!"
"What are you? Five?" Rachel asks.
"Shut up," Santana grumbles.
"Good," Rachel says. "So it's decided. You're going."
Santana smiles. "Of course, I am, babe. There's no place I'd rather be."
Rachel smiles back. "Good answer." She tugs Santana closer and leans in. They kiss leisurely for a while before the kiss turns more passionate.
"You have a room, use it!" Abby calls again from the living room.
"Those damn kids are so--"
"I don't think you need to finish that sentence, San," Rachel interrupts. "We'll just take this to the bedroom."
"Thank you!" Beth shouts.
"I'm cancelling the cable!" Santana yells as Rachel drags her to the bedroom.
"We'll believe it when we see it!" Beth shouts at the slammed shut bedroom door.
Summer 2028
Winning the Tony award is the most surreal experience Rachel has ever had. She assumes it's because it's something she's always dreamed of, planned for, but not like this. She just always assumed she'd win for her amazing musical performance, instead she's won purely for her acting. It probably helps that Evan wins for Best Actor and they win also Best Play.
Two Tonys in one night was just a fantasy to Rachel and so for it to actually have it happen, means Rachel is vibrating with excitement and Santana is worried, she might literally bounce away.
Still, Santana is so happy for her wife, she can't keep the shit eating grin off her face. She'd been worried that Rachel wouldn't be as happy since the Tony wasn't for a musical, but Rachel doesn't seemed fazed. If anything, she seems more ecstatic and Santana briefly wonders if Rachel still thought her voice is her only asset.
Afterwards it's just a blur of camera flashes, champagne and happiness. And when the pair finally stumble home, and collapse into bed, Santana has to physically fight Rachel from keeping the awards in bed with them.
Winter 2028
This is the first year that Rachel doesn't attend Santana's office holiday party. She is in LA shooting a movie. It's not a huge part and she's only gone for a month, but the first 459 hours have gone by agonizingly slow. And the next 286 will probably crawl by even slower. Not that Santana's counting or anything.
At least she's not alone this time. Abby and Santana have been bonding and Beth starts winter break in two days, so she'll be around soon too. And it's not like Santana hasn't been frantic at work, trying to get ready for a trial. It's just that Santana sleeps better with Rachel than without.
She figures that's why she's been such an absolute terror at the office. Her secretary actually went to Yarr and asked for hazard pay.
Which Yar approved.
Rachel laughed for about five minutes straight when Santana told her that.
Because of this, everyone is giving Santana a wide berth tonight. For which Santana is grateful. She just isn't in the mood.
She's standing in the corner, quietly nursing her drink because she can't afford to get drunk without Rachel around to temper her.
Rachel had suggested taking Abby, but Santana didn't want to subject the teenager to the drudgery.
"Besides," Santana told Rachel. "Everyone will just assume I'm cheating on you with some underage ass."
"Santana."
"Especially since she looks so much like you."
Which is true. If the three of them go out to eat, everyone assumes that Abby is Rachel's daughter. Which is technically possible since Rachel was eighteen when Abby was born.
"Your coworkers gossip too much," was Rachel's response.
Santana can't' disagree.
Knowing she won't be able to deal with all the bullshit for too long without Rachel's presence, Santana had decided to stay exactly ninety minutes. She still has thirty left. She's looked at her watch for the fortieth time when she's approached by her fellow HCU prosecutor's boyfriend.
"You're Santana Lopez, right?" he asks.
Santana nods. "You're Mario, Jules' boyfriend."
"Marcus," he corrects.
"Sorry," she replies insincerely.
"It's all right," Marcus assures her. "Our only meeting was very brief."
Santana nods because what else is there to say?
"Jules mentioned that your wife is out of town?"
"Yeah."
"How long?"
"For another two weeks." Santana tries to act nonchalant. "A month total."
Marcus whistles quietly. "Quite a while. That's gotta be tough."
Santana shrugs. "Work's been busy."
Marcus smiles. "I bet."
Santana doesn't respond, hoping he'll go in search of someone else more in the mood for conversation.
He doesn't and they stand side by side in silence for a few minutes.
Just as Santana's about to tell him to fuck off, Marcus turns to her.
"Wanna get out of here?"
Santana stares at him. "Excuse me?"
"I said, do you want to get out of here? Maybe go somewhere a bit more private?"
Scowling, Santana turns to face him. What the fuck would I want to do that?"
"C'mon," Marcus continues. "You're hot. I'm hot. Your wife is out of town. Might as well have some fun."
"Okay, asshat, one, I'm a lesbian. Two, I'm very happily married to my high school sweetheart. Three, you're dating Jules. Four, even if none of the above were true, I'd still rather have a gigantic slushie thrown in my face every morning for a whole month before I'd fuck you."
"You could have just said no," Marcus scoffs.
Santana shakes her head. "This is for Jules." and then she knees Marcus in the groin.
He immediately gasps in pain and drops to the floor, spilling his drink on his crisp dress pants.
Fighting the urge to kick him, because she can hear Rachel's voice in her head telling her it's not nice to kick people while they're down, Santana pours the rest of her drink on his head and goes to inform Jules about her boyfriend's assholery.
Spring 2029
When Beth announces that her major is going to be mathematics, both Rachel and Santana are shocked. While she'd always done well in math, neither would have thought her interest ran that deep.
"I mean, what are you even going to do with a math degree?" Santana asks.
"Be an actuary," Beth replies.
"A what?"
"An actuary is someone who does the statistics for insurance companies," Rachel explains. They figure out the likely hood that something will happen, so they know what to charge."
"Essentially," Beth agrees.
"Okay…"
"I know it doesn’t sound like the most exciting job," Beth says. "But I like numbers and figures and trying to analyze how things will turn out." She shrugs.
"And there's a market for this?"
"You think the insurance companies are going to stop analyzing disasters?" Beth asks.
"Well, no," Santana replies.
"If you're sure," Rachel says. "Then congratulations."
"Thanks, Rach."
"You're an odd duck, Corcoran," Santana tells her.
Beth just smiles.
Part Five
Author: slacker_d
Pairing/Characters: Rachel/Santana, OCs, Mike/OFC, Beth, Shelby, Puck, Brittany
Rating: R
Summary: 2021 to 2035 in Rachel and Santana's lives together.
Disclaimer: Not mine. Also, any real celebrities used are purely for entertainment. I know nothing about any of these people and am simply manipulating them for my own devices.
Word Count: ~5,200 (this part) / ~41,100 (total)
Spoilers: Previous parts of this series and season 1 of glee
A/N: Part two, finally. For helionwolfchild. Because even though she only posted one update of Talk Too Much instead of the promised two, it was still awesome. Plus, the initial motivation of the "deal" was enough to keep me on track with this fic. Title is a quote by Simone Weil.
2nd A/N: All real actors used were chosen because their age would match what it would be when this fic actually takes place. Also, once again, anything I didn't know (mostly anything related to lawyer-ing) was researched on the interweb, so I apologize if I've gotten things wrong.
3rd A/N: Unbeta’ed, so all mistakes are mine.
Part One | Part Two | Part Three
Part Four
Winter 2026
Santana is called into Yarr's office on the first of December. The secretary just waves her by, telling her she can just go in. So Santana knocks and enters.
Yarr is on the phone, so he motions her in and points to a chair. Santana nods and sits. She tries to ignore his conversation, even if she's curious. Just because Yarr likes her, doesn't mean he'll appreciate her eavesdropping.
"Lopez," Yarr says, hanging up his phone.
"Sir."
"We're at the next step."
"Sir?"
"Congratulations. You're transferring to the Hate Crime Unit."
"Already? It's only been three years," Santana questions.
Yarr raises an eyebrow. "You're turning it down?"
"Of course not, sir," Santana replies. "I'm just a bit surprised."
"Why? I told you I had my eye on you," Yarr tells her. "Besides everyone agrees you've done an excellent job with the CSU."
"You did, sir," Santana nods. "But I also don't want people to think…"
"Everyone knows you deserve this, Lopez," Yarr says.
"Everyone?"
"Well, maybe not Rob," Yarr chuckles. "But the influential ones? They do."
"All right," Santana says slowly. "As long as you're not telling people, I let you sleep with my wife. Me? Fine. But leave Rachel out of this."
Yarr lets out a loud laugh.
Santana does her best to keep her face neutral as she waits for a verbal response.
"If I ever had a moment of questioning you, Lopez," Yarr says finally. "It's gone out the fucking window. I will never doubt I made the right choice in you again. Indeed not."
"Good."
"You start the beginning of the year," Yarr informs her.
"Thank you, sir."
"Have a productive day."
Santana nods and hurries out of the room.
…
By the time the holiday party rolls around, everyone knows that Santana is going to be the main prosecutor for the Hate Crime Unit in two weeks.
The reaction is mixed. Most people congratulate her; some people shun her. Santana wonders if they believe she slept with Yarr; despite being out and married.
Meanwhile, Rob Deerfield has spend the entire evening sneering at her.
Feeling more secure about her place in the office, she and Rachel aren't working the room nearly as thoroughly as previous years.
Though it was necessary and definitely yielded results, Santana finds it nice to spend a holiday party with Rachel.
Plus Rachel is looking fucking hot and it's taking every ounce of will power Santana has resisting the urge to drag Rachel into the bathroom and bury her head between her legs. Because knowing her wife, Santana feels confident that Rachel is going commando this evening. She can be such a tease that way.
"Stop staring at my ass," Rachel whispers.
"I can't help it," Santana hisses back. "Have you seen yourself in that dress?"
Rachel smirks.
Santana groans. "You're not wearing panties, are you?"
"Why do you ask questions you don't want to know the answer to?" Rachel teases.
Santana groans again. "I guess I'm just a glutton for punishment."
"Don't worry, you'll be rewarded later."
Santana's reply is cut off by the arrival of Rob Deerfield. If she didn't hate her already, Santana would definitely despise him now.
"Lopez."
"Deerfield."
"Hello Rob," Rachel greets cheerfully.
Rob shoots her a look of surprise.
Rachel, of course, is fully aware of how Santana and Deerfield feel about each other, but they both agreed that it's best for Rachel to just "Rachel Berry" him until he at least likes Rachel. Santana is doubtful, but believes in Rachel. While Rachel sees it as a challenge to relish.
"Hi Ms. Berry."
"Rachel, please, Rob," Rachel replies. "We talked about this."
"Sure. Right. I, uh, forgot."
Rachel giggles a bit. "It's all right."
Santana barely holds back a snort of disbelief. Rachel is really laying it on think tonight.
"Everyone's wondering what you did to get into that open spot in Hate Crime."
"What the fuck is that supposed to mean?" Santana growls.
"San, language," Rachel chastises.
"It means exactly how it sounds, Lopez," Rob snaps.
"You're treading into dangerous territory, Deerfield," Santana warns.
"Worried your wife will find out what you're really like?"
"Actually, I've seen much worse," Rachel interjects.
Rob stares at her.
"However," Rachel continues. "I feel confident that San didn't do what you're insinuating."
"I…"
"Also I find the fact that you'd make that accusation in front of Santana's wife, fascinating. Especially since it's mindless office gossip based out of jealousy and boredom."
Ignoring Santana for a moment, Rob turns to Rachel. "Rachel, I apologize. That was rather insensitive." He then turns to Santana. "But I still think the rumor has merit."
"You would," Santana mumbles.
"Perhaps I'll go get a drink," Rachel says. "Would you like a refill, dear?"
Santana nods, watching Rachel glide away.
"You're a real prick, Deerfield," Santana growls.
"Well you're a fucking cunt, Lopez."
Santana grins menacingly. "You have no fucking idea, Deerfield."
He actually looks afraid for a brief moment, but quickly schools his features. But it's too late, Santana has seen her advantage.
Rachel returns with two glasses and hands one to Santana.
"C'mon babe," Santana says to Rachel. "Let's find some better company."
"Nice to see you Rob," Rachel says as Santana drags her away.
Linking their fingers together, Santana chuckles.
"God you are so fucking perfect."
Rachel smiles. "So much cursing," she teases. "You must really mean it."
Santana grins back. "You know what seeing you like this does to me."
"Why do you think Beth and Abby are staying at Kelly and Ryan's tonight?"
"Happy holidays to me."
Winter 2027
Despite having already run her own department, Santana is still a bit nervous. The HCU is a completely different beast than the CSU. At least she has her professionalism to hide behind.
Baptism by fire is the best way to describe it, but Santana wouldn't have it any other way. "Learning" on the run, Rachel calls it. Santana blames Coach Sylvester for making her learn best like that, since that was her favorite way of teaching.
Either way, at the end of the long day, Santana is confident that she can do this. Hell, she's Santana fucking Lopez. She can do anything; no one else should argue that fact.
Spring 2027
Beth's high school graduation is bittersweet. Santana knows the girl is thrilled to be done with high school, but the sadness of not having her mother present, definitely shows.
Still she keeps a smile on her face through the ceremony and pictures.
Remembering their own high school graduation, both Rachel and Santana agree to let Beth stay out past curfew. Rachel has a list of rules though. The first being, keep your cell phone with her at all times. The rest are in relation to being stupid while drinking.
"And last, but certainly not least," Rachel says. "If for whatever reason you need assistance, call us."
"Okay."
"I'm serious, Beth," Rachel continues. "A lot of bad things could happen tonight."
"Like getting pregnant," Santana quips.
Rachel ignores her. "I don't care what is going on, if you need us, call. I don't care if you're drunk or lost in the sewer or get caught in a Halifax Gibbet, call us."
"I promise Rachel," Beth replies. Wait, lost in the sewer? And what's a Halifax Gibbet?"
"Never mind," Rachel says quietly.
Beth looks to Santana.
"Those are stories for another time, kiddo," Santana says finally.
A bit baffled, Beth nods. "I promise I'll be okay. But… thanks, for, you know."
"have a good time," Santana tells her.
"Be safe," Rachel reminds her.
Autumn 2027
Beth's college of choice is NYU. Both Rachel and Santana were concerned, but Beth's therapist assured them both that it's fine. And it's not as if Rachel can disagree with Beth; New York is the best city to attend college in. And NYU is a great school.
The move Beth into her dorm room on a hot August Saturday. Rachel has taken the day off and Santana isn't on call, so they're both confident that between the four of them, they can get Beth settled in a few hours.
Rachel feels oddly sad. The girls have only been with them for three years, but she's really gotten used to them being around. Not seeing Beth studying at the dining room table or arguing with Santana about what to watch on TV, may take some adjustment.
Santana feels the same way, though they've barely talked about it. Despite protesting being any sort of parental figure towards Beth or Abby, they have both occasionally fallen into the role.
Abby bounces between being sad over Beth's departure and excited to have her own space. Because of this, or maybe because she's fifteen, she's not exactly helpful during the whole moving process.
When they're finally finished, the room falls somber. It feels like a much larger separation than a few dozen blocks.
"Well you know where to find us, if you need anything, kiddo," Santana says, giving Beth a quick hug.
"Keep in touch," Abby says.
"You too, punk," Beth replies, pulling her in for a brief hug.
Beth turns to Rachel, who feels a bit tearful.
"I don't know why I'm like this," Rachel apologizes.
"It's fine," Beth replies. They hug. "I feel it too."
Rachel smiles. "Remember to stay safe and have fun, but don't forget about school."
"Thanks Rach. For like, you know, everything."
"Well, we're sisters, right?"
Beth smiles. "Right."
…
Just after Labor Day, Rachel receives an odd call from her agent, Gretchen Tam. She'd been working out, so it's a voicemail
"Rachel, darling, it's Gretchn. I've been hearing some interesting rumors lately and so I need you to do something for me. I need you to pick an end date for Music Man. And it has to be before the end of the year. Trust me. I know you're probably wondering what the fuck I'm talking about, so call me the instant you get this message. Toodles."
Gretchen knows her well. Piquing Rachel's curiosity is the best way to have her call back quickly. Sighing at her predictability, she dials her agent.
"Go for Gretchen," she answers
"Good morning, Gretchen, it's Rachel Berry."
"Ah, yes, Rachel, darling, thanks for calling back so quickly."
"Well, I'm curious as to why I should quit Music Man already," Rachel replies.
"Because I've been hearing confirmations of rumors of a show that you have to do."
"Okay."
"And before you say no," Gretchen continues. "Hear me out."
"Why would I say no?" Rachel asks.
"Because it's not a musical."
"Oh."
"There's a ton of buzz about the production," Gretchen explains. Matthew Gray Gubler is directing. It's his first stage direction and people are expecting great things."
"He did an amazing job with A Stroll in the Park and Kickstart," Rachel agrees.
"And one of the male roles is already cast."
"Have there been auditions?"
"No, but it seems he and Gubler have worked together before and saw this as a chance to work together again."
"Well who is it?"
"Evan Peters," Gretchen replies.
"He was nominated for an Oscar last year," Rachel says.
"For Buoyancy. Plus he has an Emmy," Gretchen adds.
"What's the play?"
"It's called Three Days of Rain and I emailed you the script. Read it over and let me know what you think," Gretchen says. "But either way, I'm going to get you an audition."
"And what is the play about?"
"Just read it," Gretchen tells her. "It'll be easier than me trying to explain it. It's a very small cast, though. Just three characters, two men and a woman."
Rachel thinks over her schedule for the day and it's pretty light, so she says, "Fine. I'll read it. But you'll definitely be hearing from me later."
"I wouldn't expect anything else, darling," Gretchen replies.
Rachel's already logging into her email by the time she's done talking to Gretchen. She tries not to smile when she reads the subject line of the email.
URGENT! IMPORTANT! LIFE CHANGING! OPEN NOW! I MEAN IT!!!
Rachel wonders how she was able to find an agent as melodramatic as she is. She prints the script, letting it fall out of the printer as she goes off to shower.
…
Several hours later, Rachel is back on the phone with Gretchen.
"I'd say I told you so," Gretchen says. "But I'm not that big of a bitch."
"Are you sure?" Rachel asks.
Gretchen chuckles. "So you're fine with me getting you an audition?"
"Set it up," Rachel says. "I'll be there."
"Do you have any non musical audition pieces?" Gretchen asks. "Because you have to get this part, darling. I just have a feeling."
"I have a couple, but they'll definitely need some work," Rachel admits.
"Okay. Well get on it, darling," Gretchen replies. "We're on an accelerated timeline here."
"As soon as we're done talking."
"Good. Then I'm going to let you go. But remember, the clock is ticking."
"Good bye Gretchen."
…
When Santana arrives home, it's obvious that Rachel's found herself a new project. There are all sorts of books and scripts lying around her laptop. The computer itself is closed, but sitting on top is a stack of paper that Rachel has obviously gone through. It's already covered with ideas and notes. Curious, she picks it up and begins reading.
…
Rachel comes home to find Santana in bed reading the script Gretchen emailed.
"So you're doing this?" Santana asks.
"Well, Gretchen's getting me an audition," Rachel replies.
"Even though it's not a musical?"
"I can do non musical Broadway," Rachel defends.
"I know," Santana says. "I just didn't expect you to, is all."
"What do you think of it?"
"It's a great scrip and a great part, but there's gotta be more than that. I know you."
Rachel nods. "The director and the actor playing Walker/Ned. Gretchen says there's quite a buzz. I asked around. She's not wrong."
"I never thought you'd be swayed by buzz."
"It's not just the buzz," Rachel retorts. "The buzz got me to read the script. The script made me want an audition."
"Fair enough. But it'd be weird to see you on stage, not singing."
"Agreed.
…
Rachel's audition isn't what she expected. Instead of an actual audition, it's a conversation between her, Matthew Gray Gubler and Evan Peters. They discuss the play, the characters, the story and what Matthew plans to do with it. They all seem to be on the same page and the ideas start flowing. Matthew has a yellow legal pad and scribbles notes as fast as he can, as the discussion flows.
After an hour, they collectively pause and take a breather. Rachel feels like she's just participated in a marathon.
"Well, thank you for coming in, Rachel," Matthew says, standing.
"You don't want me to read?"
"Why? I know what you can do. I doubt seeing you read will alter my mind one way or another."
"Uh, all right."
"Don't worry," Evan assures her. "It's a good thing. He's confident in your talent. He's assuming you can do the part. Now he just has to figure out if you meet the criteria he has in mind."
"Oh."
"Yeah. If he has you read, it usually means you're not getting the part," Evan continues. "I've noticed that everyone he has read, he'll later tell me is a definite no. He hasn't done that for the ones he doesn't have read."
"All right. I'll try to think of this as a positive audition then."
"I would," Evan assures her. He holds out his hand. "It was nice to meet you. I hope we get to work together."
Rachel smiles and shakes his hand. "Me too."
…
Rachel manages to finish the phone conversation with Matthew relatively calm. She lets out some of her excitement because she wants Matthew to know how pleased she is, but she doesn't let out a full scream until once she's hung up.
She literally dances around the living room. Rachel's anticipation of this project has grown exponentially. Talking with Matthew and Evan, realizing they all share the same vision for the play made her really want the part.
"Hey, baby," Rachel says on Santana's voicemail. "I know you're in court, but I want you to be the first to know. Matthew just called me. I got the part! Can you believe it? I gotta go. I'm too excited, I gotta call Mike. Bye."
…
At the first rehearsal they do a read through and Rachel meets the third cast member, Austin Zimmer. He has just finished a very successful run of a modernized Hamlet as Laertes that no one thought would do well, but had actually been nominated for a Tony.
Once the read through is finished, they discuss the play. Matthew describes his vision and talks a bit what the set and costume are going to be like. He in turn, has each actor talk about their characters and the history they've created.
It feels like a productive first rehearsal to Rachel. Once again she says a silent thank you to Gretchen for pushing her towards this.
…
Santana loves it because for a few months, Rachel is home at night. She always knew that their demanding schedules would limit the time they see together and Santana is fine with that, for the most part. That doesn't mean she won't enjoy every moment that Rachel is home the same time she is. Despite the demands of running her own unit, Santana makes a real effort to leave the office at a decent hour.
She compensates by doing some work at home. Rachel doesn't mind, understanding the need to just soak up each other's presence. So while Rachel learns her lines, Santana works and at least a dozen times one or the other will look up, see their spouse and smile before returning to their work.
Winter 2027
They open to rave reviews. Santana can't believe how much everyone loves the play. Rachel has a stack of papers and articles on the dining room table that is probably going to be a foot tall by the time she's finished. Not that Santana blames her. Even though Music Man was very well received, it didn't receive the kind of hype Three Days of Rain is. There's even talk of Tony nominations.
Santana is there, of course, opening night. Rachel made sure to get her the best seat in the house, which Santana finds adorable. It was a nice surprise, when she stopped by the box office this evening. Santana's glad she had two dozen pink roses delivered to Rachel's dressing room earlier in the day. It's a tradition she started as soon as they got together, despite not always having the funds to do it.
…
Rachel is a bigger draw than usual this year. Apparently everyone has seen Rachel in Three Days of Rain and none of her coworkers can help but want to share their praise with her wife. Not that Santana minds; she knows how much Rachel loves all the accolades. Besides, it's just one more thing to love about Rachel. And neither wants to let such an advantage fall away.
She's getting another drink when Jules Embry joins her.
"Good thing you're not the jealous type," Jules quips, pointing to the crowd around Rachel.
Santana chuckles. "Oh, I definitely am. But I trust Rachel."
"It's your fault for marrying such a commodity."
"Rachel's good for my image," Santana agrees.
Jules raises an eyebrow.
"And I love her more than anything," Santana adds.
Jules smiles. "Awww. There's the old softy I was looking for."
"Because I love my wife?" Santana questions.
"Considering I've seen you make a fucking serial rapist cry on the stand, I'd say yes."
Santana shakes her head. "You work too much, Embry."
"That's the pot calling the kettle black, Lopez."
Santana smirks and they settle into a comfortable silence.
"Why is Deerfield looking at you with daggers in his eyes?" Jules asks eventually.
"Because I have everything he wants in life and he's pissed," Santana explains.
"So he's jealous of your marriage? Or your career?"
"Career, definitely," Santana replies. "Marriage? Couldn't say. Maybe."
"Hmph. It's his own fault," Jules says. "He tries too damn hard. It's… off putting."
"That's the nicest way of calling him a douche bag I've ever heard," Santana laughs.
Jules shrugs. "I've dealt with worse."
"Me too."
"What are chatting about ladies?"
Both Santana and Jules turn slightly to find Eric Yarr standing behind them.
"Jules here was just confirming what a piece of work Rob is," Santana replies.
"I wasn't… I mean, that's not exactly…"
"Relax, Embry," Yarr says. "Lopez just likes to see you sweat."
"Hey I was just being honest," Santana replies. "It's not my fault that Jules doesn't realize you'd know more than most what an asshat Rob is."
"Indeed. Considering all the back stabbing around her," Yarr says. "I would have thought you'd be so surprised, Embry."
"Apparently drinking around my coworkers makes me paranoid," Jules retorts.
"Too bad," Yarr replies. "Drinking is the only way to get through these things."
"We could stop having them," Santana suggests. "There are at least 10 other things I'd rather be doing."
"Really?" Yarr asks. "I can only think of one."
Santana grins. "Please don't tell me, sir."
"Get your mind out of the gutter, Lopez."
"Right."
Jules watches the exchange in amazement. If she didn't know better, she'd believe the rumor that Santana had sex with Yarr. But seeing how Santana adores her wife, Jules can't see her doing it.
"Have you talked to her yet?" Santana asks Yarr.
"What?"
"I know you want to," Santana continues.
"Your wife is very talented," is all Yarr says.
"She'd love to hear that from you, boss."
Yarr shakes his head. If I don't speak with her, I'm sure you can give her my regards."
"Fair enough, sir."
Once Yar has left them alone, Jules can only stare at Santana in disbelief.
After a couple minutes, Santana gets fed up.
"What?"
"If I didn't know better, I'd think you two fucked."
"You're lucky you started that sentence the way you did, Embry," Santana retorts.
"I just mean you're a little too relaxed around him."
"If we had slept together, do you think we'd act like that?" Santana questions.
"I suppose not."
"He's relaxed around me and so I respond accordingly," Santana explains.
"Why?"
"You'd have to ask him that," Santana replies.
"Yeah. I'll get right on that, Lopez," Jules sighs.
Spring 2028
Despite all the buzz surrounding the show, Rachel still surprised when she's nominated for Best Actress in a Play for Three Days of Rain. It's certainly not how she imagined earning her first Tony nomination, but she's not complaining.
For some reason, Santana finds it hilarious that Rachel's first Tony nomination isn't for a musical. She figures it's because Santana knows of Rachel's favorite daydream in high school, which was Rachel staring in a revival of Wicked or Cabaret and winning her first award for that. Santana also knows that no one, herself included, expected the Tony to be the third award Rachel was nominated for.
The girls are pretty excited, especially since Abby looked up what EGOT actually meant.
Rachel's glad that the ceremony is in New York, so there shouldn't be any question of Santana accompanying her. She may have joked about Santana being her good luck charm, but in reality, she does consider her wife her lucky charm. For reasons she can't explain, Rachel doesn't want anyone else with her. She just can't imagine having anyone but her wife seated next to her.
Santana, of course, finds it amusing to play hard to get. Unlike before, she doesn't really have a good excuse, but she doesn't let that stop her. She just an't help it. Her wife is so damn adorable when she's pouting.
Finally Rachel can't take it anymore. "Santana!" she yells. "You're going with me. This is not a discussion. It's right here in the city on a weekend, so you have no excuse. So stop smirking and just agree!"
"Rach…"
"I mean it, San. Or no sex ever again."
"We can hear you quite clearly!" Beth calls out from the living room.
"So?!" Santana calls back. She turns to Rachel. "You wouldn't."
"Wouldn't I?"
"You do realize that I'm just messing with you, right babe?"
This earns Santana a very hard punch to the shoulder.
”That isn't nice. Or fair. Or nice."
"You said nice already," Abby calls from the living room.
"We can still hear you," Beth adds.
"Shut up and watch your stupid show, Corcoran," Santana shouts back.
"Just kiss and make up so we can have some peace and quiet!" Abby yells back.
"Make me!"
"What are you? Five?" Rachel asks.
"Shut up," Santana grumbles.
"Good," Rachel says. "So it's decided. You're going."
Santana smiles. "Of course, I am, babe. There's no place I'd rather be."
Rachel smiles back. "Good answer." She tugs Santana closer and leans in. They kiss leisurely for a while before the kiss turns more passionate.
"You have a room, use it!" Abby calls again from the living room.
"Those damn kids are so--"
"I don't think you need to finish that sentence, San," Rachel interrupts. "We'll just take this to the bedroom."
"Thank you!" Beth shouts.
"I'm cancelling the cable!" Santana yells as Rachel drags her to the bedroom.
"We'll believe it when we see it!" Beth shouts at the slammed shut bedroom door.
Summer 2028
Winning the Tony award is the most surreal experience Rachel has ever had. She assumes it's because it's something she's always dreamed of, planned for, but not like this. She just always assumed she'd win for her amazing musical performance, instead she's won purely for her acting. It probably helps that Evan wins for Best Actor and they win also Best Play.
Two Tonys in one night was just a fantasy to Rachel and so for it to actually have it happen, means Rachel is vibrating with excitement and Santana is worried, she might literally bounce away.
Still, Santana is so happy for her wife, she can't keep the shit eating grin off her face. She'd been worried that Rachel wouldn't be as happy since the Tony wasn't for a musical, but Rachel doesn't seemed fazed. If anything, she seems more ecstatic and Santana briefly wonders if Rachel still thought her voice is her only asset.
Afterwards it's just a blur of camera flashes, champagne and happiness. And when the pair finally stumble home, and collapse into bed, Santana has to physically fight Rachel from keeping the awards in bed with them.
Winter 2028
This is the first year that Rachel doesn't attend Santana's office holiday party. She is in LA shooting a movie. It's not a huge part and she's only gone for a month, but the first 459 hours have gone by agonizingly slow. And the next 286 will probably crawl by even slower. Not that Santana's counting or anything.
At least she's not alone this time. Abby and Santana have been bonding and Beth starts winter break in two days, so she'll be around soon too. And it's not like Santana hasn't been frantic at work, trying to get ready for a trial. It's just that Santana sleeps better with Rachel than without.
She figures that's why she's been such an absolute terror at the office. Her secretary actually went to Yarr and asked for hazard pay.
Which Yar approved.
Rachel laughed for about five minutes straight when Santana told her that.
Because of this, everyone is giving Santana a wide berth tonight. For which Santana is grateful. She just isn't in the mood.
She's standing in the corner, quietly nursing her drink because she can't afford to get drunk without Rachel around to temper her.
Rachel had suggested taking Abby, but Santana didn't want to subject the teenager to the drudgery.
"Besides," Santana told Rachel. "Everyone will just assume I'm cheating on you with some underage ass."
"Santana."
"Especially since she looks so much like you."
Which is true. If the three of them go out to eat, everyone assumes that Abby is Rachel's daughter. Which is technically possible since Rachel was eighteen when Abby was born.
"Your coworkers gossip too much," was Rachel's response.
Santana can't' disagree.
Knowing she won't be able to deal with all the bullshit for too long without Rachel's presence, Santana had decided to stay exactly ninety minutes. She still has thirty left. She's looked at her watch for the fortieth time when she's approached by her fellow HCU prosecutor's boyfriend.
"You're Santana Lopez, right?" he asks.
Santana nods. "You're Mario, Jules' boyfriend."
"Marcus," he corrects.
"Sorry," she replies insincerely.
"It's all right," Marcus assures her. "Our only meeting was very brief."
Santana nods because what else is there to say?
"Jules mentioned that your wife is out of town?"
"Yeah."
"How long?"
"For another two weeks." Santana tries to act nonchalant. "A month total."
Marcus whistles quietly. "Quite a while. That's gotta be tough."
Santana shrugs. "Work's been busy."
Marcus smiles. "I bet."
Santana doesn't respond, hoping he'll go in search of someone else more in the mood for conversation.
He doesn't and they stand side by side in silence for a few minutes.
Just as Santana's about to tell him to fuck off, Marcus turns to her.
"Wanna get out of here?"
Santana stares at him. "Excuse me?"
"I said, do you want to get out of here? Maybe go somewhere a bit more private?"
Scowling, Santana turns to face him. What the fuck would I want to do that?"
"C'mon," Marcus continues. "You're hot. I'm hot. Your wife is out of town. Might as well have some fun."
"Okay, asshat, one, I'm a lesbian. Two, I'm very happily married to my high school sweetheart. Three, you're dating Jules. Four, even if none of the above were true, I'd still rather have a gigantic slushie thrown in my face every morning for a whole month before I'd fuck you."
"You could have just said no," Marcus scoffs.
Santana shakes her head. "This is for Jules." and then she knees Marcus in the groin.
He immediately gasps in pain and drops to the floor, spilling his drink on his crisp dress pants.
Fighting the urge to kick him, because she can hear Rachel's voice in her head telling her it's not nice to kick people while they're down, Santana pours the rest of her drink on his head and goes to inform Jules about her boyfriend's assholery.
Spring 2029
When Beth announces that her major is going to be mathematics, both Rachel and Santana are shocked. While she'd always done well in math, neither would have thought her interest ran that deep.
"I mean, what are you even going to do with a math degree?" Santana asks.
"Be an actuary," Beth replies.
"A what?"
"An actuary is someone who does the statistics for insurance companies," Rachel explains. They figure out the likely hood that something will happen, so they know what to charge."
"Essentially," Beth agrees.
"Okay…"
"I know it doesn’t sound like the most exciting job," Beth says. "But I like numbers and figures and trying to analyze how things will turn out." She shrugs.
"And there's a market for this?"
"You think the insurance companies are going to stop analyzing disasters?" Beth asks.
"Well, no," Santana replies.
"If you're sure," Rachel says. "Then congratulations."
"Thanks, Rach."
"You're an odd duck, Corcoran," Santana tells her.
Beth just smiles.
Part Five