Hello everyone,

this is the second to last chapter for this story, and builds up for Nationals as well as some plot for some other characters.

Insert disclaimer here

"Kurt-"

"You don't have too."

"I know I don't, but I want too."

"Why? Why now?"

"Because, I don't want to hide anymore."

"Alright, everyone. We're getting ready for Nationals pretty soon. But first, a guest has asked to sing today." Mr. Shue was gesturing to Dave who sat in the front row looking like he was about ready to back out of his decision.

But Kurt smiled and he knew this was something he wanted to do.

Mr. Shue waved him onto the floor.

"Hey, guys. I wanted to sing this song that expresses how I'm feeling now." He watched as the other students stared at him patiently.

There was still time.

No. Kurt waved him on.

Here goes nothing, he thought.

I always thought I had it figured out
No need for the benefit of the doubt
I could never look beyond what
I could see I was in control and it was all about me
I'm so sick and tired
Of this selfish life... I want more

As promised, Kurt backed him up and came out to stand beside him. He took the second verse much to the surprise of his friends. While Dave had begun to change his behavior, this was still very new to them.

Reach up, reach out
This house is burning down
These walls we've built are caving in
Reach up, don't give up
We're standing on the ashes
With a clearer view and a new perspective

The band was going crazy as Kurt and Dave went on to sing the chorus. What the rest of the club wondered, was why Santana wasn't giving as much attention to Dave as she should.

They were together, right?

Instead, most of her attention was fixed on Brittany.

Strange. Rachel thought to herself. Then, her eyes widened in realization.

Santana is in love with Brittany.

Rachel practically glued her eyes to the two girls. Santana was definitely looking at Brittany and the other girl was very quick to return the gesture.

We need to open up our eyes
See it written on their faces?
We are running out of time
Is there no one who will save them?
I'm reaching out

Rachel smiled hugely. It's definitely written on their faces. But what's up with Dave? Why would he sing this song?

As the band strung the last note and Dave's voice rang through the room for the last time, Rachel was brought back to reality.

She had work to do.

She stood up and shouted. "Bravo, bravo! That was amazing, guys!"

Kurt looked confused but bowed all the same, and even Dave had a slight flush on his cheeks.

Slow was definitely good.

"I have an idea for you." Rachel bounded up to Santana's locker where the girl was busy reapplying her lip gloss.

"And that would be?"

"You sing a duet at Nationals-"

"No offense, but I'm not singing with you."

"Now, Santana, not with me." Rachel took a deep breath. "With Brittany!"

Santana's face turned chalk white faster than Kurt could order a new scarf. "Why would I want to do that?"

"Santana, don't make me say it."

I must be dreaming, Santana thought as she gripped the locker door in an attempt to stay upright. "Say what? There's nothing to say." Now would be a good time for me to walk away.

"You're in love with Brittany."

Rachel was practically glowing. Damn her. Why is she so happy? What do I do? What do I do? Deny it. Yup, that sounds like a good plan. "No, I'm not."

"You don't need to deny these things, Santana. It's quite alright. Kurt is gay and he has a boyfriend, so there's no need to hide it."

"I am not gay, and I'm not in love with her."

"Santana, you have her picture in your locker."

"Please stop."

"Why are you so upset?"

"I need to go. I'm going to be late for class."

"Santana, wait!" Rachel ran after her, but Santana disappeared into a group of freshman and ran down the stairs to her Chemistry class.

"Santana!"

She stopped. She knew that voice. "Brittany?"

The blond girl walked to her side and gave her the hugest smile. "Why are you sweating?"

"Oh, God. Am I?" Santana reached into her purse to retrieve her pocket mirror.

"Did you have gym?"

"No." Santana sighed. "I have to go to class. I'll see you later?"

Brittany nodded. "Of course."

A duet. Would it be that bad? Santana walked into class, Rachel's words ringing in her ears.

"How are you?" Blaine asked from Kurt's couch as the younger boy rummaged through the refrigerator.

"Stressed. Here we go."

"Are you almost ready for Nationals?"

"Yes. I'm so excited." Kurt nearly bounced on his spot on the couch and took a sip of his drink.

"Fill me in?"

"Of course. I'm going to be singing lead."

"No way! That's awesome!" Blaine smiled at Kurt. His eyes were all lit up and he looked beside himself with joy. This was the Kurt that Blaine loved.

"I know! I have no idea what I'm going to sing though."

"You'll find a song."

"Oh, I have no doubt. I just want it to be perfect, you know?"

"Of course."

Kurt sighed. "How are things at Dalton?"

Blaine laughed. "Very much the same. Wes and David are preparing to find replacements for the council."

"Any votes yet?"

"Not yet. I think the other guys are waiting for Wes to take his gavel before stepping up to the plate."

"Smart move," Kurt said disinterestedly.

"I agree."

Blaine sensed something was off with Kurt and he asked, "Kurt, what's going on?"

Kurt lowered his eyes. "Something is off with Karofsky."

Blaine frowned. "Is he bullying you again?" he asked.

"No, but he's pretending to date Santana."

Blaine frowned again.

"Exactly, and I can't help but feel like they're covering something up because Rachel all but cornered Santana after Glee practice."

"What are you thinking?"

Kurt fiddled with his fingers. "I think that Santana is a lesbian."

"Really?"

"Yeah, and if so, I know why she's hiding it."

"Yeah, the bullying."

"I don't know what I should do about it."

"Kurt, you don't have to do anything. If you want to do something, talk to her about what's going on."

"We're not exactly the best of friends."

"No, but she's helping to keep McKinley bully-proof, right?"

Kurt nodded.

"Then, I think it's safe to say this topic will be okay to bring up with her."

"Blaine Anderson, I love you."

Blaine smiled and closed their lips with a kiss.

The song used was New Perspective by Fireflight.