Later that year, they win at Nationals. Jake and Ryder sing a duet together, even though, originally, they aren't meant to. Jake is meant to sing with Marley, but the day before the competition she comes down with laryngitis. Mr Schue makes every single girl audition alongside Jake, but eventually everyone convinces him that Ryder should be his duet partner. Because no one could fake the chemistry that they have. It helps that Ryder already knows the part inside out, having practised with Jake between whispered confessions of 'I wish I could perform this with you'. It looks like Jake has got his wish.

The performance goes amazingly and the crowd laps it up. No one seems phased that two guys are singing the romantic duet. Ryder can't help but feel quietly confident.

Even still, he isn't expecting it when the New Directions are announced as the winners. He's caught up in the excitement and euphoria, and next thing he knows, he and Jake are kissing on stage. It's deep and passionate, but it's not really a big deal. They are in Los Angeles after all, and no one really seems to care. The cheering just seems to go up a decibel or two.

Xxx

Two years later, they graduate. Ryder is standing on stage, gripping his diploma and watching Jake be handed his. Jake smiles broadly at him as he walks over to join him, squashing in next to Marley. Ryder smiles in return, leaning forward, and Jake and Ryder are kissing on stage for a second time. Ryder can hear the room fall instantly silent, the low rumble of noise disappearing and Figgins faltering over the next name. Ryder hears a cough that sounds suspiciously like 'Fag'. It's immediately silenced by a whistle though, which sounds remarkably like his father. Ryder glances over to see that his father is standing now, beginning to clap. His mother is hurrying to her feet next to him, and beside her, so is Mrs Puckerman. The newest New Directions join in the applause as well, as do a smattering of others in the audience. Mostly though, it's completely silent, and Ryder catches a few furious glares. He ducks his head, feeling embarrassed by the attention and cursing his stupidity.

Because this time, even though it's just a gentle peck, it's suddenly a huge deal. Because they're in Lima, Ohio, and the place is still full of homophobic jerks.

Ryder links his hand with Jake's, and realises he doesn't really care how everyone reacts. And he knows that Jake doesn't either. Because now, finally, they can get out of this godforsaken town. They can go anywhere they want. They can get away from the judgement; they can find a community of people who will accept them. They can do anything they want. Hell, in most places, they could get married.

Most importantly though, they can begin the rest of their lives. Together.

And there endeth the story. OMG. It's been a journey. But I've thoroughly enjoyed it, even though it got a little stressful at times. Hope you enjoyed it too!

Big thanks to CG85 for helping with this final chapter. Without that help, it would have been seriously short (like 200 words), so thank you.

I've updated You're the One That I Want with a chapter about the dinner. I'm hoping to do at least one more, because kila asked for the walk home after they got caught by Ryder's parents. To talia, I won't be able to write your prompt – I'm pretty sure if Ryder's parents hadn't come home it would have lead to smut, and I don't write smut. Also xjustwantedjyder (who prompted a while ago), I really don't have any ideas for filling your prompt sorry. But I did write a different story with Jake as the catfisher a while ago, if you haven't seen that.

I'm hoping that in the near future, I'll start a new fic that'll be Blam friendship with Klaine pairing.

But I will totally keep writing Jyder, because I love them so much.

Speaking of which, Jyder Week is coming up on the 24 to 30 June, and I'm gonna be taking part. So keep an eye out for that. Also check out the tumblr for it and show them some support: jyderweek . tumblr . It would be awesome if a whole bunch of us could get involved, whether that's by creating or consuming content.

Thank you all so much for your support.

Xxx

Paste your document here...