| Rhythm Nation | |
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| Season 2, Episode 8 | |
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Information[]
Songs[]
- Dare You To Move by Switchfoot. Sung by Chastity and the Holy Rollers
- If by Janet Jackson. Sung by Hallie
- Miss You Much by Janet Jackson. Sung by Jaxon and Evan
- Rhythm Nation by Janet Jackson. Sung by New Directions
- Fall Behind Me by The Donnas. Sung by Lana and The Femme Fatales
- Room For Happiness (Fire Mix) by Kaskade ft. Skylar Grey. Sung by The Femme Fatales
- I Would Do Anything For You by Foster the People. Sung by Dillon, Chuck, and the Warblers
Glee: The Next Generation Season 2, Episode #8: "Rhythm Nation"[]
So here’s what you missed on Glee: The Next Generation:
New Directions got back at India, but she’s madder than ever. Hallie finally made her decision and she chose Lana. Bella is gonna be okay though. She met Hallie’s super cute cousin, Reece, and she is crushing hard. Bella seems to rebound pretty fast. Breezy is also crushing hard on Bella’s ex, Miles. Jaxon promised to never let James fall, even though James’ newfound bad boy attitude is driving him nuts. Jaxon blames bad boy Aldy, new best friend of James. They even almost got into a fight. India has big plans for Sectionals, but she won’t reveal them. Nicole is dating a Warbler named Dillon. The Warblers are concerned about him dating the competition. Chuck is also dating his competition, Chastity, a very mean girl. And if that wasn’t enough drama, Nicole also has a secret admirer.
And that’s what you missed on Glee!
____________________________________________________________
Hallie sighed as she grabbed her backpack. She turned to face her mother, who was holding a plate of breakfast.
“So when are you going to invite Lana over for supper?” Miranda asked.
“Oh dear lord, Mom, not this conversation again,” Hallie said.
“I think it would be the civil thing to do to invite her to meet your mother,” Miranda replied.
“You’ve met Lana,” Hallie said, as she bent over and gave Ethan and Eva a kiss.
“Not formally,” Miranda said. “I think you owe it to her to make her feel welcome in your family.”
Hallie nodded. “Okay. Maybe next week. Sorry, I’ve just been so stressed with Sectionals coming up. I love you Mom. And please don’t give the kids a lot of sugar. I really feel like I will need my rest after Sectionals.”
“Bye, baby,” Miranda said, hugging Hallie and kissing her on her cheek. “Good luck tonight.”
Hallie smiled as she walked out the front door and saw Lana propped against the giant elm tree in her front yard.
“Are you gonna walk me to school?” Hallie asked.
“Of course. My car is in the shop. Bad alternator. But it’s great weather for walking. The trees are beautiful. Red, gold, and orange – what wonderful colors.”
“You seem really happy,” Hallie said, lacing her arm through Lana’s.
“I am happy. I have a gorgeous girl, tonight is Sectionals. I’m on cloud nine.”
Hallie laid her head over on Lana’s shoulder. “I’m right there beside you.”
Lana smiled to herself
____________________________________________________________
Lana walked Hallie to the choir room and stopped outside the door.
“So, here we are,” Lana said. “I’ll see you later, baby.”
“I wish you were in here with me. It’s not too late,” Hallie said.
“I have a loyalty to my fellow Femme Fatales. Natasha would especially be upset if I just left.”
“I understand,” Hallie said. “I know it’s kind of wrong, but I’ll be secretly rooting for you.”
Lana chuckled. “Same. Take care, okay?”
Hallie nodded as Lana smiled and walked away. Hallie gathered herself and walked into the choir room.
“Welcome, Hallie,” Will said. “Sit down. We were just talking about Sectionals. Alright, as you may or may not know, Rose has the flu and she can’t compete tonight.”
“Aw, that sucks,” Honey said.
“Which is very unfortunate,” Will said. “Because now we have a little predicament.”
“What is it?” Nicole asked.
“Bella, Jaxon, Miles, Hallie, James, Nicole, Evan, Lucas, Kevin, Honey, Aldy, and Breezy. That’s only twelve people. We have to have thirteen to compete. We’re short a member.”
“Oh God,” Breezy said. “What are we gonna do?”
“This is definitely not good,” Evan said.
Will sighed. “We’ve worked, no, you guys have all worked too hard to not even get a chance.”
“What about Declan?” Bella asked.
“He can’t tonight,” Honey said. “He has some sort of family thing. But he wished us good luck and sends his love.”
“I have an idea,” Aldy said. “We can get Taylor to fill in. She’s a real fast learner and picked up on the songs and choreography when me and James were practicing.”
“I’m willing to take what we can get,” Will said. “How fast can she get here?”
“I can go get her right now,” Aldy said.
“Great,” Will replied. “Go get her. She and Rose were about the same size so she can wear Rose’s costume.”
“Got it,” Aldy said.
“Now,” Will said. “Our set-list. As you know, Evan suggested after last week’s country lesson, we do some classic R &B for Sectionals. He nominated Janet Jackson. They’re all songs we have worked on in the past and I know you guys know them well.”
“A few years ago, New Directions impressed with a Jackson medley at Sectionals,” Honey said. “One of the judges from that year will be here this year. I say, what harm can it do?”
“I agree,” Nicole said. “Janet Jackson for Sectionals? I’m there.”
“Awesome,” Kevin said.
“Great idea, Evan,” Lucas said, interlacing his fingers through Evan’s. Evan smiled.
____________________________________________________________
Later that afternoon, Kevin sighed as he sat in the green room. Aldy looked over at him.
“I was so disappointed when I realized Sectionals was here this year,” Kevin said.
“Why is that,” Aldy asked, already regretting his decision to ask.
“I wanted to sing the wheels on the bus,” Kevin said.
“Are you kidding me?” Aldy asked.
“The wheels on the bus go round and round,” Kevin sang. “Round and round--”
Kevin quickly shut up when he saw the glare that Aldy was giving him.
“If you don’t shut up, my fist is gonna pound and pound, pound and pound, pound and pound, all over you,” Aldy sung, none too amused.
Kevin gulped. “Gotcha.”
____________________________________________________________
Jaxon stood in the dressing room, adjusting his jacket. Lana stood behind him, watching. Jaxon looked up and saw her in the mirror.
“Hey,” Jaxon said, turning to face Lana.
“I just came by to wish you guys good luck,” Lana said. “At least McKinley has home field advantage. Unfortunately only one of us can win.”
“Yeah, I know,” Jaxon said. “Good luck to you guys, too.”
Lana walked over to Jaxon. She reached up and helped Jaxon adjust his bow tie and collar.
“Sorry,” Lana said. “It was crooked. I had to fix it.”
Hallie stepped into the dressing room and smiled upon seeing Lana.
“Hello, Dollface,” Lana said.
“Good luck out there tonight,” Hallie said. “Even to India.”
“How about a kiss for good luck?” Lana asked.
Hallie blushed, pushing a loose lock of hair back behind her ear. “Maybe.”
Lana walked over and wrapped her arms around Hallie. She pressed her lips to Hallie’s and kissed her gently. In the mirror, Hallie could see Jaxon pointing down his throat. She chuckled, breaking the kiss.
“Jaxon, you’re crazy,” Hallie said.
Jaxon smiled as he walked over and hugged Hallie and Lana. “Never said I wasn’t.”
“Excuse me,” Will said. “We’re all meeting in the lobby for a group show circle. You guys in?”
Hallie nodded. “Yes, Mr. Schue. Be right there.”
Jaxon smiled as he hugged Hallie. “We’ve got this.”
____________________________________________________________
Will stood there in the lobby, looking proudly at New Directions, a big smile on his face.
They’ve all come so far, accomplished so much. I have never been so proud of them. This moment, tonight, it belongs to them. They have this in the bag.
“I would first like to thank you guys for all your hard work preparing for Sectionals,” Will said. “Second, I would like to thank Evan for helping us finally decide on our setlist. Even if you guys don’t win, as long as you get out there and do your best, I’ll still be proud of you. I’m proud of all of you every single day. But, we got this. You guys are gonna win. I am sure of that.”
“Mr. Schue,” Bella said. “As Glee Club co-captains, Jaxon and I have a few things we’d like to say.”
“Go on,” Will said.
“This school year has been anything but easy,” Bella said. “I think it’s been worse this year than last year. I’m also sad that Rose couldn’t be here tonight as she is sick with the flu. She was such an important part of this team. So, let’s win this in her honor.”
“And in John’s honor,” Jaxon added. “He would have been proud of us. And he’s here tonight in spirit and I’m going to give my all to win this for him.”
Will patted Jaxon on the shoulder. “Well said, Jaxon.”
____________________________________________________________
Chuck sat in the green room, his face buried in his hands, crying. Dillon patted him on the back.
“What am I going to do?” Chuck asked. “I’m not ready for this. I’m only seventeen.”
“Did you take precaution?” Dillon asked.
“Of course. I’m not stupid. It failed, though.”
“What’s going on?” X asked, walking into the green room.
“Chuck told me a few weeks ago that Chastity was pregnant. And I managed to talk him through it. But now, Chastity is here and she’s showing and Chuck lost it again,” Dillon said.
“Chastity is preggers?” X asked. “Are we talking about the same Chastity? God Warrior Chastity?”
“Yes, she’s pregnant,” Chuck said. “Three months along. She didn’t even tell me until she was two months along. I’m just so scared.”
“Don’t be,” Jaxon said, walking in. “Sorry to interrupt, but I was wanting to wish you guys good luck. I’d like to think that the Warblers and New Directions are friends.”
Dillon smiled. “We are. Thank you, Jaxon.”
“As for you, Chuck, don’t be scared.” Jaxon said. “I’ve helped raise my little brother and a child can be a very rewarding experience. Plus, I know from Hallie’s experience that having a kid doesn’t ruin your life. Hallie’s the most popular girl in school now, she’s the captain of the Cheerios. She has everything still going for her. A child is not a death sentence, Chuck.”
Chuck smiled at Jaxon. “Thank you so much for your comforting words.”
____________________________________________________________
Will and the rest of New Directions took their seats. Emma looked over at Will and took his hand with a smile. Beside Emma, sat Sue and her Femme Fatales.
“Welcome to the two thousand-sixteen Sectionals competition!” The announcer said. “Please welcome our Judges. First, from Lima, Ohio, local news personality, Rod Remington!”
Rod stood up and waved to the crowd, a big, put-on smile on his face.
“Local children’s entertainer, Tickles the Clown!”
Tickles stood up and began to mime something. Lana and Jaxon looked at each other and rolled their eyes.
“And last but not least, our very own local celebrity chef, Chef Horner!”
A woman in a chef’s hat stood up and began to act like she was conducting an orchestra with a metal spatula. The crowd went wild.
“Please put your hands together for our first performers, from Holy Name of the Mother Academy in nearby Westerville, The Holy Rollers!”
The curtain parted as the crowd applauded. The music began and Chastity walked out on stage.
“Oh my god!” Hallie said. “She’s knocked up! And she had the nerve to talk about me!”
Lana laughed. “So this is the famous Chastity Vega? What a dweeb.”
“Welcome to the planet,” Chastity sang. “Welcome to existence. Everyone's here, everyone's here. Everybody's watching you now, everybody waits for you now. What happens next, what happens next?”
“I dare you to move,” Chastity and the Holy Rollers sang. “I dare you to move. I dare you to lift yourself up off the floor. I dare you to move. I dare you to move like today never happened, today never happened before.”
“Welcome to the fallout,” Chastity sang. “Welcome to resistance. The tension is here, tension is here. Between who you are and who you could be. Between how it is and how it should be.”
“I dare you to move,”Chastity and the Holy Rollers sang. “I dare you to move. I dare you to lift yourself up off the floor. I dare you to move. I dare you to move like today never happened, today never happened before.”
“Maybe redemption has stories to tell,”Chastity sung, stage tears falling down her face. “Maybe forgiveness is right where you fell. Where can you run to escape from yourself? Where you gonna go? Where you gonna go? Salvation is here.”
“I dare you to move,” the Holy Rollers sang. “I dare you to move.”
“I dare you to lift yourself up off the floor,” Chastity sung.
“I dare you to move,” the Holy Rollers sang. “I dare you to move.”
“Like today never happened,” Chastity sang. “Today never happened, today never happened, today never happened before.”
The audience applauded as Nicole got up and made her way to the Warbler’s dressing room.
____________________________________________________________
Nicole blushed as she walked in on Dillon, shirtless. She covered her face as Dillon pulled his shirt on, buttoning it up. Dillon laughed.
“Your embarrassment is cute,” Dillon said.
Nicole smiled. “I had to come wish you good luck. I hope people don’t think I’m here trying to spy on the competition.”
“No, not at all,” Claude said, walking in and checking his hair in the mirror.
Dillon laughed as he watched Claude primp. “It’s all in the past, Nicole.”
“I’m going to go comfort Chuck if that’s okay,” Claude said. “He’s still kind of taking it hard. He and Chastity had a fight right before she went onstage.”
“That’s fine,” Dillon said.
“So,” Nicole said. “Are you going to be watching me from the audience?”
“Of course,” Dillon said.
“It’s kind of weird. This is where we met last year.”
“Next week is our one year anniversary My, time flies, huh?” Dillon asked, buttoning up his blazer.
“It really does fly when you’re in love,” Nicole added. “Well um, I have to go get ready. I’m sure Chastity has already fake cried her way through another song and is starting on a new one. I’ll see you later.”
Dillon nodded as he walked over and kissed Nicole on her cheek. “Good luck.”
____________________________________________________________
Jaxon held James’ hand tightly as they stood stage left, waiting for Hallie to take the stage. Hallie gave them a smile as she waited for the curtain to rise.
“Please put your hands together for the next performers, from McKinley High, the New Directions!” The announcer called to the sound of applause.
The curtain rose slowly as the music began to play. Hallie swallowed the nervous lump in her throat and put aside her reservations as she walked center stage.
“Sitting over here, staring in your face with lust in my eyes,” Hallie sang. “Sure don't give a damn and you don't know that I've been dreaming of you in my fantasies. Never once you looked at me. Don't even realize that I'm wanting you to fulfill my needs. Think what you want, let your mind free Run free to a place no one dares to. How many nights I've laid in bed excited over you. I've closed my eyes and thought of us a hundred different ways. I've gotten there so many times I wonder how bout you day and night, night and day. All I've got to say is if I was your girl, oh the things I'd do to you. I'd make you call out my name. I'd ask who it belongs to. If I was your woman, the things I'd do to you. But I'm not, so I can't, then I won't, but if I was your girl.”
“You know, in retrospect, maybe not the best song choice,” Will said to Emma.
“It is a little edgy,” Emma replied. “But perhaps the judges will reward New Directions for their choice to be edgy and take a chance.”
“God I hope so,” Will said.
“Allow me some time to play with your mind,” Hallie sang, dancing with the other girls in New Directions as back-up dancers. “And you'll get there again and again. Close your eyes and imagine my love impressed. Take your time cuz we've got all night, ooh. Let me know what you like. I want you so bad I can taste your love right now, baby. Day and night, night and day, all I've got to say is if I was your girl, oh the things I'd do to you. I'd make you call out my name. I'd ask who it belongs to. If I was your woman, the things I'd do to you. But I'm not, so I can't, then I won't, but if I was your girl. If I was your girl, oh the things I'd do to you. I'd make you call out my name. I'd ask who it belongs to. If I was your woman, the things I'd do to you. But I'm not, so I can't, then I won't, but if I was your girl. I've laid in bed excited over you. One hundred different ways I've thought you, many, many. Day and night, night and day, all I got to say is if I was your woman, the things I'd do to you. But I'm not, so I can't, then I won't, but if I was your girl. If I was your girl, oh the things I'd do to you. I'd make you call out my name. I'd ask who it belongs to. If I was your woman, the things I'd do to you. But I'm not, so I can't, then I won't, but if I was your girl. If I was your woman, the things I'd do to you. But I'm not, so I can't, then I won't, but if I was your girl. If I was your girl, oh the things I'd do to you. I'd make you call out my name. I'd ask who it belongs to. If I was your woman, the things I'd do to you. But I'm not, so I can't, then I won't, but if I was your girl. If I was your woman, the things I'd do to you. But I'm not, so I can't, then I won't, but if I was your girl. If I was your girl, oh the things I'd do to you. I'd make you call out my name. I'd ask who it belongs to. If I was your woman, the things I'd do to you. But I'm not.”
Lana was the first on her feet to applaud for Hallie, a large smile on her face.
“Well, guess it’s our turn now,” Evan said, appearing beside Jaxon. “Us and these duets, huh?”
“We make a great duet team,” Jaxon said.
“Then let’s get out there and win this thing,” Evan said.
Jaxon and Evan gave each other a high five before they walked out onstage.
“Good evening, everyone,” Jaxon said. “We’re the New Directions. Thank you for coming tonight.”
“We hope you all enjoy yourselves,” Evan said.
“Shot like an arrow going through my heart,” Jaxon sang. “That's the pain I feel, I feel whenever we're apart. Not to say that I'm in love with you but who's to say that I'm not. I just know that it feels wrong, when I'm away too long. It makes my body hot. So let me tell ya baby.”
Lucas, James, and Hallie danced out on stage, taking their places behind Jaxon and Evan.
“I'll tell your mama, I'll tell your friends,” Jaxon and Evan sang. “I'll tell anyone whose heart can comprehend. Send it in a letter baby, tell you on the phone. I'm not the kinda boy who likes to be alone.”
“I miss ya much,” Jaxon and Evan sang.
“Boy-oh-I miss you much,” James, Lucas, and Hallie sang.”
“I really miss you much.
“M-I-S-S you much.”
“I miss ya much.”
“Boy-oh-I miss you much.”
“Baby I really miss you much
M-I-S-S you much.”
“I'm rushing home just as soon as I can,”Evan sang. “I'm rushing home to see your smiling face and feel your warm embrace. It makes f-feel so g-g-g good. So I'll tell you baby.”
“I'll tell your mama, I'll tell your friends,” Jaxon and Evan sang. “I'll tell anyone whose heart can comprehend. Send it in a letter baby, tell you on the phone. I'm not the kinda boy who likes to be alone.”
“I miss ya much,” Jaxon and Evan sang.
“Boy-oh-I miss you much,” James, Lucas, and Hallie sang.”
“I really miss you much.
“M-I-S-S you much.”
“I miss ya much.”
“Boy-oh-I miss you much.”
“Baby I really miss you much
M-I-S-S you much.”
“I miss you much,” Jaxon sang. “I really, really miss you much. I miss you much. I'm not ashamed to tell the world I miss you.”
“I'll tell your mama, I'll tell your friends,” Jaxon and Evan sang. “I'll tell anyone whose heart can comprehend. Send it in a letter baby, tell you on the phone. I'm not the kinda boy who likes to be alone.”
“I miss ya much,” Jaxon and Evan sang.
“Boy-oh-I miss you much,” James, Lucas, and Hallie sang.”
“I really miss you much.
“M-I-S-S you much.”
“I miss ya much.”
“Boy-oh-I miss you much.”
“Baby I really miss you much
M-I-S-S you much.”
The audience once again broke into applause as the rest of New Directions ran out and took their positions.
Honey stepped forward, the rest of New Directions falling back.
“With music by our side to break the color lines,” Honey sang. “Let's work together to improve our way of life. Join voices in protest to social injustice.”
“A generation full of courage,”New Directions sang.
“Come forth with me,” Breezy and New Directions sang. “People of the world today are we looking for a better way of life?”
“We are a part of the rhythm nation,” New Directions sang.
“People of the world unite,” Honey and New Directions sang. “Strength in numbers, we can get it right one time.”
“We are a part of the rhythm nation,” New Directions sang.
“This is the test,” Miles sang. “No struggle no progress. Lend a hand to help your brother do his best.”
“Things are getting worse,” Honey sang. “We have to make them better.”
“It's time to give a damn,” New Directions sang. “Let's work together come on.”
“People of the world today,” Miles and New Directions sang. “Are we looking for a better way of life?”
“We are a part of the rhythm nation,” New Directions sang.
“People of the world unite,” Honey, Breezy, and Miles sang. “Strength in numbers we can get it right one time.”
“We are a part of the rhythm nation,” New Directions sang.
Breezy and Miles shared a smile as New Directions pulled into a group hug. In the audience, everyone was on their feet. Will smiled from ear to ear, so proud of them.
Bella looked out int the audience and Reece was sitting there, smiling at her. She smiled back and swore she saw a wink.
____________________________________________________________
Chuck was so confused, so upset and all he saw was the comfort in Claude’s eyes. He leaned in, not sure of what he was doing, and kissed Claude. Claude seemed surprised, but didn’t pull away. Instead, Chuck did.
“Oh God, what did I just do?” Chuck asked.
“I’d like to know the same damn thing!” Chastity said. “The father of my child, kissing his teammate, another boy?”
“I’m so confused right now,” Chuck said, his eyes pleading.
“Confused? What are you?” Chastity asked, putting her hands on her hips. “Bisexual.”
“I don’t know,” Chuck said. “I’m just confused.”
“How about you back off,” a male voice said from the doorway.
Chastity looked up to see who had just walked in.
“Wyatt,” Claude said.
“Just take your drama elsewhere, okay,” Wyatt said. “My sister is taking the stage. I plan to see her, not staying her to referee a fight between a sexually confused guy and his pregnant holy roller wife. And I’m not talking about your show choir either.”
“Sister?” Chuck said.
“Lana, she’s my sister,” Wyatt explained. “I chose to come to Dalton. We don’t see each other much.”
“I thought you weren’t gonna make it,” Claude said. “Your whole lone wolf act makes it hard to tell.”
“Well, I’m here,” Wyatt said.
Chastity folded her arms. “Then I guess I will just pay New Directions a little visit then.”
“Go,” Wyatt said. “You do that.
____________________________________________________________
By the time Wyatt made it to his seat, the Femme Fatales had just finished their first song.
“I love Alanis Morissette,” Dillon whispered to Wyatt, who half ignored him.
“Thanks for coming,” Scarlet said.
“We’re the Femme Fatales,” Karina said.
The music to the next song began and Lana took the microphone. Scarlet, Karina, and Natasha took the back-up mics near the back.
“I can't believe she bought it,” Lana sang. “She got too close and she caught it. Had a point but she forgot it. When you skip steps on the way up, the gaps have a way of catching up. And you can’t cover that with makeup.”
“You’re gonna fall behind me,” Lana and the other three sang. “You’re gonna cry and beg for mercy. Cause you’re not ready baby and you got nothing on me. You got nothing on me.”
“Now that I'm getting to know her,”Lana sang. “Part of me wants to show her who she's really screwing over. Cause she's got nothing real, taking everything she can steal. Just like it was her last meal.”
“You’re gonna fall behind me,” Lana and the other three sang. “You’re gonna cry and beg for mercy. Cause you’re not ready baby and you got nothing on me. You got nothing on me. You’re gonna fall behind me. You’re gonna cry and beg for mercy. Cause you’re not ready baby and you got nothing on me. You got nothing on me. How long is she gonna be around?
“And how long do we have to watch her dumb it down,” Lana sang. “’Cause when its cheap it fades fast.”
“And how long does she think it’s gonna last?” They all sang. “You’re gonna fall behind me You’re gonna cry and beg for mercy. Cause you’re not ready baby and you got nothing on me. You got nothing on me. You’re gonna fall behind me. You’re gonna cry and beg for mercy. Cause you’re not ready baby and you got nothing on me. You got nothing on me. How long is she gonna be around?
“And you got nothing on me,” Lana sang. “And you got nothing on me. And you got nothing on me.”
As India stood stage left, an evil smile spread across her face.
“It’s time, Addison,” India said to herself.
The Femme Fatales took the stage, India being the last one to take her position. The music had just began as India finished up taking her place.
“Sometimes I wish I never felt the influence of you,” Lana sang. “Cause now I feel the disconnect, like an open wound. Where you once were, there is a space that runs as deep as hell but every morning when I wake I tell myself.”
“Don’t be fooled by your emptiness,” the Femme Fatales sang. “There’s so much more room for happiness. Don’t be fooled by your emptiness, there’s so much more room for happiness. Yeah, yeah, yeah.”
“Sometimes it’s worth to have lost than to have never had at all,”Natasha sang. “Cause it’s a curse to feel loved then to feel it all dissolved. Where you once were, there is a space that runs as deep as hell but every morning when I wake I tell myself.”
“Don’t be fooled by your emptiness,” the Femme Fatales sang. “There’s so much more room for happiness. Don’t be fooled by your emptiness, there’s so much more room for happiness. Yeah, yeah, yeah. Don’t be fooled by your emptiness. There’s so much more room for happiness. Don’t be fooled by your emptiness.”
India saw her moment and seized it. She swung too wide to her left and flung her arms out, knocking Lana off balance and sending her into the other Femme Fatales. They all fell down, except India, who had a proud look on her face. As Lana’s microphone hit the stage, it rolled over to the speakers and the crowd was deafened by the sound of loud, shrill feedback.
Lana picked herself up and looked at India as she dusted herself off. “How could you?”
India smiled as she watched Lana storm off the stage.
“You really are a bitch,” Natasha said before taking off after Lana.
____________________________________________________________
Hallie didn’t look pleased at the sight of Chastity.
“What do you want?” Hallie asked. “To apologize for what you did to me and said to me for the last two years?”
“No,” Chastity said. “Because my baby isn’t bastard. It’s the result of love because Chuck and I are very much in love right now.”
“Is that why he was macking on Claude in the dressing room?” Nicole asked, laughing.
“He confused!” Chastity insisted.
“It’s not that different,” Hallie said. “Other than the fact you got pregnant through the result of a consensual encounter. I was raped. There is a huge difference.”
“Look, blondie,” Lana said, storming into the green room. “I am very pissed off right now and I really need to take out some frustration. So I suggest you stop messing around with my girlfriend.”
“Oh ho ho,” Chastity said. “Now Hallie’s a lesbian. This just gets better and better. Caio.”
Lana glared at Chastity as she walked out the door, laughing.
“Can I?” Lana asked.
“No,” Hallie said. “Don’t waste your time on her. Besides, the Femme Fatales would get disqualified.”
“India already sabotaged us,” Lana said. “Might as well.”
Hallie grabbed Lana’s hand. “No. You’re better than that. Who knows, maybe you guys will at least place second. Even after being sabotaged, you could still win. Lana, you’re amazing. The judges will see that.”
Lana smiled as she held Hallie. “How did I get so lucky?”
__________________________________________________________
Nicole stood the entire time that The Warblers performed, completely in awe of Dillon and all his hard work.
“Thank you,” Dillon said. “This next song is dedicated my girlfriend, Nicole. She’s a member of New Directions and we met at Sectionals last year.”
The music started up as the Warblers divided up into three groups. One stood behind Dillon and began to harmonize. The second stood behind Claude and they began to beat box. The third stood behind Chuck and they began to clap rhythmically.
“Never wanna stand up for myself,” Dillon sang. “Never wanna get in the way, I said it. I don’t know what the plan is, but you can share with me, ‘cause I’ll be listening here to everything you say. I won’t turn away and I will listen, open up my heart and I must say that I love you, so.”
“Oo la love, I’ve fallen in love, and it’s better this time than ever before ,”Dillon and the Warblers sang. “Oo la love, I’ve fallen in love, and it’s better this time than I’ve ever known.”
“Every day is a battle I face,” Chuck sang. “Strange life I live but it’s what you've decided I’ll give it all into your hands. Do what you will with me, and oh I’ll smile when you speak. Remember all those times I was hoping for something and shaking my head from all I have done but you never left me.”
“Oo la love, I’ve fallen in love, and it’s better this time than ever before ,”Dillon and the Warblers sang. “Oo la love, I’ve fallen in love, and it’s better this time than I’ve ever known.”
“Give it up for you, I would give it up for you,” Dillon sang. “I would give it up for you, I’d do anything for you.”
“Oo la love, I’ve fallen in love, and it’s better this time than ever before ,”Dillon and the Warblers sang. “Oo la love, I’ve fallen in love, and it’s better this time than I’ve ever known.”
“I have fallen in love,” Dillon sang. “I have fallen in love, I have fallen in love.”
The audience leapt to their feet and applauded, the biggest applause since New Directions took the stage. Nicole jumped up and down as she applauded. Dillon smiled at her and blew her a kiss.
____________________________________________________________
There is nothing that will ever prepare you for that moment when the lights go down and you’re standing onstage, waiting for the results, Will thought.
Rod Remington walked onstage, envelope clutched tightly in his hand. He adjusted the microphone.
“Hello, ladies and gentleman,” Rod said. “And now for the results of the Sectionals competition.”
Jaxon tightly clutched Hallie’s hand as Rod opened the envelope. “In fourth place, The Holy Rollers.”
Chastity let out a disappointed sigh as a woman handed them a small trophy. Chuck frowned, feeling sympathy for his girlfriend.
“In third place,” Rod said. “From McKinley High, The Femme Fatales.”
India smiled, knowing her plan had worked. Lana walked forward, clearly upset and took the third place trophy. Hallie lowered her head, upset.
“And the winner of the two thousand and sixteen Sectionals competition,” Rod said, looking up at the audience. “Also from McKinley High, the New Directions!
Jaxon and Hallie jumped up and down, hand in hand. Hallie looked over at Lana, who flashed her a smile. Jaxon walked over to Lana and gave her a hug.
“Congrats, kiddo,” Lana said.
Jaxon smiled. “Thank you, Lana.”
Dillon smiled as he walked over and hugged Nicole.
“Baby, I am so proud of you,” Dillon said.
Chuck walked over and extended his hand to Jaxon. Jaxon took it and shook it.
“Congrats,” Chuck said.
____________________________________________________________
India walked reluctantly into the office. She looked at Figgins, who motioned to an empty chair. Sue sat in the other chair and Will stood behind her, his arms crossed.
“Sit down, Miss Wilson,” Figgins said.
“What’s going on?” India asked.
“In your time at McKinley, you’ve managed to rack up quite a rap sheet,” Figgins said. “You bought your way onto the Cheerios, revealed a secret to the student body about Hallie Grace, mocked her at the Halloween carnival, perpetuated a feud that got Evan Marx expelled, threatened students, assaulted a student from Carmel, instigated a sex riot, blackmailed Lana Addison, offended multiple students, send out flyers petitioning for the removal of another student, framed Bella James for the flyers, and the last straw was your harebrained scheme to sabotage your own show choir at Sectionals in order to humiliate another student. I talked to the Student and Visitor Exchange program and let them know about my decision to expel you. Your Visa has been revoked and you must return home to London immediately.”
“What?” India asked, shocked. “You can’t be serious!”
“I am serious. Very serious,” Figgins replied. “You have worn out your welcome at McKinley. Please clean out your locker and leave.”
Will hung his head down as India got up and walked past him.
“I’m going to need you to turn in your Cheerios uniform,” Sue said.
India looked down at her uniform, tears welling up in her eyes.
Have you ever taken the time to realize that everything you do has a consequence? Have you ever stopped to think about those consequences? I didn’t. I had bullied my way through life, never thinking about the harsh reality of what would happen when things finally caught up with me. Now, it was time to face up to the things I did.
As I walked down the hall, hundreds of sets of eyes were glued to me, scrutinizing me. I felt like I was being walked out in front of a firing squad. There could be no worse a fate for me than this.
“Good riddance,” a girl said as India walked past.
Ouch. That actually hurt. God, this was embarrassing. As I approached the choir room, I knew I had only one chance to tell them all how I felt. It was now or never.
“Well, I guess you’re all happy,” India said, stepping into the choir room. “You won Sectionals, Lana joined New Directions, and you got me expelled.”
“You got yourself expelled,” Breezy said. “Don’t come here blaming us.”
“It’s what you all wanted, don’t act like it isn’t,” India replied.
“You think we wanted it to come to this?” Jaxon asked.
“When you were nice, we actually liked you,” Nicole said. “We loved going to London with you.”
“Ever since I came back, you’ve all been plotting my downfall,” India said.
“Okay. Now you just sound crazy,” Evan said.
“So, I’m gone. You all got your wish,” India said. I’m returning home and I seriously hope to see you at Internationals so I can relish the opportunity to beat you guys.”
“India, you’re going back home,” Honey said. “Can’t you take this one final moment and use it as an opportunity to be friendly one last time?”
“I never fit in with you guys. You always excluded me.”
“You did that to yourself,” Lucas said.
“You were too busy worrying about your popularity,” Miles said.
Evan got up and walked over to India. He put his hand out for a handshake.
“Look, India, we dated for a month. I think we should leave this moment behind as friends,” Evan said.
India snubbed Evan, leaving him standing there hand extended. Evan nodded and walked back to his seat. Miles got up and walked over to India.
“We dated for a long time,” Miles said. “Well five months is a long time in high school. And that’s if you count the three months in summer where we had a long distance relationship.”
Miles opened his arms and tried to hug India, but she pulled away. “I don’t want your hugs. I don’t want your anything. From any of you.”
India turned around and walked out the door, the sound of her heels clicking fading into the distance.
Will walked in, looking sad. He looked around the room at all of the sad faces.
“Guys, at least we won Sectionals this year,” Will said. “This cloud has a silver lining, after all.”
“We totally kicked Holy Roller butt,” Taylor said.
“And we have our two newest members,” Will said.
“Who’s the other one?” Kevin asked.
“I am,” Lana said, walking into the choir room. “If you guys will have me.”
“Of course,” Nicole said.
Everyone got up and walked over to Lana, pulling her into a giggly group hug. Will smiled.
____________________________________________________________
Nicole looked at the note again.
“Meet me at three-thirty in the auditorium,” she read aloud. “Well, here I am.”
“So am I,” said a male voice.
Nicole turned toward the stage and watched as the curtains parted and Adam stood there.
“Hey, Nicole.”
Nicole smiled. “Adam. I thought you were—”
“Gay?” Adam asked. “I get that all the time. No, I’m not gay. And to be honest, I have a crush on you.”
Nicole smiled, but her smiled quickly faded. “That’s so sweet, Adam, but I have a boyfriend.”
“Oh,” Adam said. “I thought you two broke up.”
“We did but we got back together. I should have told you. I feel so bad.”
“Don’t feel bad,” Adam said. “I feel so stupid for even doing this whole secret admirer thing.”
“Adam, don’t say that. It’s actually very sweet. And if I weren’t already seeing Dillon, I might actually give you a chance. But you are a great guy and I would love to be friends.”
Adam smiled. “I’d like that.”
Adam walked down the steps from the stage to join Nicole.
“So what are you going to do since the Femme Fatales have disbanded?” Nicole asked. “Are you going to audition for New Directions.”
“No, I think I’m going to join the Cheerios. Coach Sylvester wants to add vocals back into her Cheerios routines so Karina, Jennifer, Scarlet, and I are all going to join. Coach Sylvester personally asked us to join.”
“That’s great,” Nicole said. “So, friends?”
Adam smiled. “Friends.”
Adam and Nicole smiled as they shared a friendly hug.
THE END