Hate & Love.. that's rough.

*slipping out of the bed and kissing Tyler on his cheek she tiptoes out of their room and walks down to Ty's room, grabbing an outfit and sliding it in her purse she picks him up and carries him out to to the kitchen and writes Tyler a quick note then takes one more look towards their bedroom and runs out of the room to the cab that is waiting. giving the driver the address she looks at the house and feels torn between her boyfriend and best friend*

[Ty] *stirring after the car starts he looks around* Mommy? Why are we in a car?

[Jonnie] We are going to get Uncle Lucas from the airport. *smiling as a grin fills Ty's face* We need to take him to grandpa's.

[Ty] Can I stay at grandpa's with him?

[Jonnie] *frowning, unsure of what to say* We'll see. *she turns and watches as they pass street after street. As they get close she helps Ty get dressed and brushes his hair. as they pull into the airport she pays and walks inside heading towards the gate, only to find out Lucas' plane is delayed* Well, we have time to eat, are you hungry? *with a nod from Ty they head to find some food*

[Tyler] *waking up and rolling over Tyler is surprised to see that Jonnie is not beside him. He gets up and sees that she and Ty aren't there. Wandering around confused for a moment he sees a note. "Gone to pick up Lucas". Looking a little lost he gets dressed and climbs into his car, hoping he makes it to the airport before they leave. He doesn't know what to say to Lucas when he sees him, but he feels he should be there when he arrives. On the drive he wonders why Jonnie didn't wake him so that he could take them. He arrives and looks around, finding them in the coffee shop.* Hi.

[Jonnie] *looking surprised to see him* Um, Hi?

[Ty] Hi daddy, want breakfast? Mom might let you have a cinnamon bun too! *licking the icing he smiles*

[Jonnie] Ty, eat right son. I don't want you a mess when Lucas gets here. *suddenly freezing and looking at Tyeler as she finishes that statement*

[Tyler] You know, I have a car. *giving her a hopeful smile* I could have driven you. I hope you don't mind me being here.

[Jonnie] I didn't want to ask you. What ever issue you and Lucas have, I want no part of it. *looking at Ty who is paying no mind to them* I don't want it to be weird for them. Ty and him love each other.

[Tyler] I promise, if it is in my power I won't let it be weird. Lucas and I have some stuff to work out, but that's not important. What's important is being here for my family. *sitting beside her and across from Ty* But if you want me to I can go. I don't want this to be weird for you either. *looking a little unsure of his place in their family*

[Jonnie] You can stay, he is your brother. *smiling trying to hid the nervousness* Sorry I didn't ask you to bring us.

[Tyler] *putting his arm around her shoulder* It's alright, you were being thoughtful. Or cautious. Either way, it's fine. You look nervous. *smiling and ordering a cinammon roll and a large glass of milk when the waitress comes over and winking at Ty* That looks good. *and then turning back to Jonnie* Do you think he'll be ok with me being here? You know him better than I do these days.

[Jonnie] Does it bother you that I know him well? *suddenly feeling defensive*

[Tyler] No, that's not what I meant. *playing with the sugar packets* I'm glad that he was there for you. I was just asking if you thought he was going to be ok with me being here. *pouting a little*

[Jonnie] *sighing* I don't know. He is different then the kid he was when you left. *playing with her cup of water, seeing her ring and looking at him* He might be upset to see this though.

[Tyler] *taking the roll from the waitress and pushing it between them so they can share if she wants to, speaking quietly so as to not alert Ty* And will it upset you if he's upset to see it? *looking into her eyes*

[Jonnie] *staring at him and getting ready to speak she hears an announcement that the flight lists have been updated, looking over at the screen and smiling she stands up* His plane is here!

[Tyler] *seeing her excitement he smiles and squeezes her hand* Go, get him, I'll wait here with Ty. We're not done with our breakfast, isn't that right buddy? *quietly* You can take it off for now, if you need to. *seeing her look to the screen and back to him again he sighs* Go, really we'll be fine.

[Jonnie] *smiling and leaning down to kiss his cheek she almost sprints to the gate and waits anxiously as people come off the plane, with each person passing her she gets more and more antsy. just when she can't stand it any longer she sees him and as he spots her he runs and picks her up spinning her around, hugging her tight* Hey handsome! How was your flight? *pecking him on the lips without thinking she blushes*

[Lucas] It was to long! I couldn't wait to get here. Where is my boy? You promised you bring him. *looking at her a little hurt*

[Jonnie] He is here. *looking at him* Tyler is here, they are in that cafe over there.

[Lucas] *looking at her then at the cafe* Well shit Haley, why? Why did you bring him?

[Jonnie] He followed me, I couldn't send him back to his house. You are his brother. *taking his hand and then spining into him for another hug* I am so glad you are here. I have missed you so much.

[Lucas] *hugging her* I have missed you too. I have been miserable since you left. *looking back at the cafe* Lets go get this out of the way.

[Tyler] *watching as the woman he loves runs into the arms of another man, like a scene from a romance movie. He absentmindedly picks at his cinammon roll as they have a tense conversation, both of them looking toward the cafe. Obviously her telling Lucas that he is there. He notices Lucas' look of dismay* Awesome *he mutters under his breath* Looks like baby brother is just thrilled to see me. *as they approach the table he stands and puts on a wide smile* Lucas! *patting his brother on the back* It's great to see you.

[Ty] *spotting Lucas he jumps up and runs to him* Uncle Lucas! I missed you!

[Lucas] *picking up Ty and kissing him and then pretending to eat him, as they laugh he hugs him again* Hi son, how are you? *turning to Tyler* Hey Tyler, how are you? *trying to be happy, he puts on his best smile*

[Tyler] *his voice slightly strained* I'm great. Lots of big things happening in my life this week. *wrapping his arm around Jonnie's waist and ruffling Ty's hair with his free hand* And now you're here too. It just keeps getting better doesn't it?

[Jonnie] *smiling at Lucas* It does keep getting better. *looking at Tyler with a "behave" face she motions for them to sit so he and Ty could finish eating*

[Lucas] *slides in next to Ty* When we get my suitcases I brought you some toys from home. I thought you might be missing them. *winking at Ty then turning to Jonnie* So Haley, where am I staying?

[Ty] You brought me toys? *smiling* Yes! *hugging Lucas* Thank you.

[Tyler] *looking from Jonnie to Lucas and back again* Haley?

[Jonnie] It's what he calls me. *smiling as she remembers the day in the rain*

[Tyler] But I thought you hated your middle name. *picking at his bun some more and waving to the waitress asking for a box. He finishes his milk and smiles at her, trying to take the irritation from his voice before turning back to Lucas and Jonnie* Still nicknames are good I suppose.

[Lucas] Well, I guess she is your Jonnie and my Haley. *smiling at her*

[Jonnie] *suddenly tensing up* Something like that I guess. I didn't hate it, I hate that my first and middle names have the same ending. I still think my parents weren't thinking when I was named. *trying to lighten the mood she looks at Ty who has yet to let go of Lucas* So Ty, are you full buddy?

[Ty] I am mommy. That was good. *rubbing his tummy for effect* You should have one uncle Lucas.

[Lucas] I will get one to go, and maybe you can help me eat it.

[Tyler] *standing and kissing Jonnie quickly* I'll be right back, I'm just going to go take care of this *picking up the bill* I'll have them add yours on too Lucas, and then I've got to run to the mens room and I'll be back. *taking the bill before anyone can respond he walks to the register and takes care of it and then walks into the men's room, leaning against the wall and banging his head back once* Stupid stupid stupid. She's totally into him. I should have seen it. And he's just the same as he's always been. He won't be happy until she's his. And Ty loves him, he may as well be his father. *he stops speaking when someone walks into the bathroom and takes a deep breath, washing his face and turning on his publicity shot charm he walks back out and to the table* Right, well it's a good thing that I've got my car here. Let's go get Uncle Lucas' stuff dropped off, then we can make plans for the day. *smiling*

[Lucas] *excusing himself from the table and pulling Tyler with him, as soon as they are out of earshot he looks at his brother* I know you aren't happy to see me. I am slightly peeved to find out she found you. But, can we agree to get along for her and Ty?

[Tyler] *crossing his arms and staring at Lucas* You know this is just like you. You want to come off like the good guy, playing nice for their sake, Let me ask you something before I agree to anything ... You knew which team I was playing for. You couldn't have found a way to contact me?

[Lucas] I helped her look for you. To be honest I forgot what team you were playing for because when you left I hated you. Hated you for leaving me, for leaving me with that alcoholic asshole mom married. But, then you were gone. Not just out of the house, but out of the country. I was angry and getting into trouble, then Jonnie walked into the picture, and I felt the urge to hold her close because she was close to you. Then she told me she was pregnant with YOUR son! Your son.

[Tyler] *sighing* Look I'm sorry I left. Well no, I'm not sorry I left that fucking house, I hate Jerry with my entire being. But I'm sorry I left you there. I should have fought when mom said I couldn't bring you with me. But don't you dare take that tone with me about her carrying my son. Because I didn't know. *angrily* And you sure did a bang up job of taking over the spot of daddy for me.

[Lucas] Look, I didn't do anything wrong there. I am sure if you ask her she will tell you I tried to help in a way that I thought you would. I raised him the way we should've been. Not out of selfishness, out of respect. Because, I do love you Tyler. I just happened to fall in love with Hal... Jonnie along the way. And honestly, can you blame me. Look at her. *turning to look at her, then back at him* When she almost died she told me to take him and find you. I would've found you and brought Ty to you.

[Tyler] Fine. Whatever. Yeah, I'll be nice if you do the same. But stop hitting on my girl alright, you may have been there for her, but we're ... *stopping and looking at Jonnie, knowing that she wouldn't want him to break their news like this * we're together now. You're going to have to accept that

[Lucas] I can't just let her go like that. I tried, and every time she told me she still loved me it made me try harder. Had her mom not died she would've been in Cali with me and I know she would have been mine. *puts his hands up* I am not trying to be a dick, I am being honest. She loves me too.

[Tyler] Dammit Lucas. What do you want me to do? Shake your hand and say "may the best man win"? I'm not going to do that, because you've been the best man for years when I didn't have that option. And now my son loves you, and he doesn't even know me.

[Lucas] Bullshit, ask him. He knows you. Haley, told him about you every single day! He knows all about you. He had most of your belongings in his room. Ask that kid anything and he could answer it. Have you even talked to him? *rubbing his head* Don't pretend you know what I did or didn't do, the only thing he didn't know is that you were my brother.

[Tyler] *seeing Jonnie looking at them anxiously he sighs* Fine, we'll figure it out. For now I guess all I have to say is it's good to see you. It really is good to see you Lucas, I'm glad you're here, no matter what else might be happening. We'll figure the rest out.

[Lucas] *leaning forward and hugging Tyler for the first time in years* It's good to see you too. I really mean it. As far as Jonnie, I don't know how we can figure it out. We both love the same girl.

I need to get there.....

*laying his suitcase on the bed he starts folding clothes and setting them inside. smiling as the memories flood his mind*

~ Seeing the blond walking up to him in school asking him if the rumors of him being Tyler Ferris' little brother were true?

[Jonnie] So I hear you are Tyler's kid brother. Is it true?

[Lucas] Yes, I guess you could say that. He's related to me but we aren't close. If you are some fan of his please go away.

[Jonnie] *her face instantly sad* Oh, okay sorry to bother you. *turning to walk away fighting back her tears*

[Lucas] *feeling bad instantly* Hey, I'm sorry. *looking at her and feeling an instant connection with her*  I didn't mean to be so brash. *putting his hand on her shoulder* Are you okay?

[Jonnie] No I am not okay. But its my problem, not yours. *starting to walk away and turning her head back towards him* He was my everything and now he is gone.

[Lucas] You are Jonnie? *looking at her and thinking about how sat Tyler was when he left* He told us you dumped him the night before he left.

[Jonnie] Biggest mistake of my life. *putting some hair behind her ear* If you hear from him tell him I need to talk to him. Please?

[Lucas] *with a nod she walked away, he stood there and watched her leave* ~

*picking up a red shirt he smiled as he remembered the day she came to his house crying*

~Hearing the doorbell he ran down the stairs and smiled when he saw Jonnie at the door.

[Lucas] Hey buddy. How are you? *seeing the tears in her eyes he hugs her and leads her inside*

[Jonnie] I'm pregnant Lucas. *looking at him* And I am really scared. 

[Lucas] *hugging her tight* No matter what happens, I will be there for you.

[Jonnie] *sobbing as he held her* Thank you Lucas. ~

*walking over to his dresser to open his drawers he sees a picture of them from the begining of their friendship. taking the picture and looking at it he laughs. remebering how she got her nickname*

~ Best friends getting caught in the rain was funny til it started hailing. Then they ran under a awning and waited out the storm together.

[Jonnie] *wrapping her arms around him as they laughed* I can't believe it is spitting outside. This is rare for here.

[Lucas] Spitting? Why do you call hail that? It's hailing. *chuckling at her*

[Jonnie] Because hailing sounds like my middle name which I don't like.

[Lucas] Do I want to know? *taking off his jacket and putting it over her, rubbing her arms and trying to warm her up*

[Jonnie] My middle name is Haley. I just don't like it. If I was named Jonnie, why did my parents think it was okay to give me a middle name with the same ending sound? *rolling her eyes*

[Lucas] But I like Haley. *winking* From now on you are Haley.

[Jonnie] Really? That's so unfair! *laughing* ~

*after putting his socks and boxers in the suitcase he moves to find his shorts and pants he wanted to take. thinking about how he fell in love with Jonnie, and how she told him she still loved Tyler. it broke his heart and made him leave town for awhile. leaving her all alone, again*

~ Coming back to town and seeing Jonnie again was bittersweet.

[Jonnie] I missed you.

[Lucas] Haley, you are my best friend. It's been us for so long and I was hurt that you still loved someone who left you. But, I couldn't stay away. I promised you I'd be here and that is what I am going to do. *smiling as he hugs her tight*

[Jonnie] I am glad you came back. I need you, we need you. *rubbing her very big baby belly*

[Lucas] I can accept your friendship, if that is all you can offer me. But if you ever decide to fall in love with me I wouldn't be upset.  *smiling*

[Jonnie] What am I going to do with you Lucas! *hugging him* ~

*remembering the first time he saw her singing on stage, she was amazing. her voice moved him and he became her biggest fan and never missed a show. throwing his last pair of jeans he was taking in the suitcase*

*moving into the bathroom to get his stuff together he looks and sees Ty's toothbrush. he missed his little guy. feeling jealous that Tyler gets to spend time with the guy he helped raise*

~ Hearing his phone ring at an odd hour and seeing a weird number.

[Lucas] *picking the phone up* Hello?

[Ty] Uncle Lucas. It's me, Ty.

[Lucas] *smiling* Hey buddy. How are you? How's mom?

[Ty] I am sad.

[Lucas] Why are you sad? I thought you'd have fun in London.

[Ty] I want you to come get me and bring me home.

[Lucas] What is going on? Where is your mom? I want to talk to her right now.

[Ty] Mom is in the shower getting ready for today. She found my dad. I want to come home!

[Lucas] *his heart breaking* Why don't you want to meet your dad?

[Ty] What if he doesn't like me? I don't want to meet him.

[Lucas] Listen buddy, shhh, it's okay. Listen to me okay? You go meet your dad. If he doesn't love you, and he will, I will come get you.

[Ty] How do you know he will like me? You don't know my dad.

[Lucas] Because you are the best 4 year old I have ever met. I love you, everyone loves you. Think about all the people who are crazy about you. If your dad doesn't like you, well then he is not very smart. *thinking he should tell him Tyler is his brother, but thinking against it*

[Ty] *smiling* Okay, I will go meet him. But, will you come anyway?

[Lucas] I will come. Let me look at flight info and I will call you mom later okay?
[Ty] I love you uncle Lucas.

[Lucas] I love you too buddy. I will see you soon. Be good for mom. Bye Bye.

[Ty] Bye bye uncle Lucas. ~

*adding his bathroom supplies into the suitcase and zipping it up before grabbing his passport, tickets, wallet, and cellphone. he took one last look around his room and headed out the door. he had to put on a happy face when he got to London, but right now he could frown and be miserable. angry that his best friend found his brother. his plans of being with her and Ty were just ideas that would never happen. walking out of the house to get in the cab he felt a million emotions and he didn't know what to do about any of them*

Time to make it right...

After a twist of fate, Joey ran into Tyler and we chatted on the phone. He now knows about Ty and wants to meet up. As terrified as I am, it is time to make it right. I can only hope it goes well. 

[Jonnie] *getting Ty dressed* Are you nervous about meeting your dad?

[Ty] *smiling and handing her his shoe* No, I am not nervous about meeting him. I am scared he won't like me.

[Jonnie] *tying his shoe and checking him over, smiling* He will love you. Look at everyone that loved you at home. You are perfect and I love you. *kissing him and then standing up and picking him up* Okay, you close your eyes and when you open then we will be near Tyler's house, ready? *seeing him nod then tuck into her as tight as he can, she disappears and reappears by the big tree in his yard* COme on buddy, we are here. *walking up to the front door, taking a deep breath and squeezing Ty's hand, she knocks*

[Tyler] *wiping his hands on his apron, and then looking down at it and shaking his head* An apron? Super manly. *takes off the apron and hangs it up, checking his hair in the mirror he walks to the door and opens it up. Seeing Jonnie for the first time in years his breath is taken away, and then he sees the small boy holding her hand* Hi! Hi, Uh, come in. *walking into the house and leading them in to the living room* Hang on one second, *he leaves the room and comes back with a tray of bruschetta and some dips* Um, can I get you a drink? Want some I dunno, soda or juice, or milk maybe?

[Jonnie] *smiling as she looks at the man she never stopped loving* Do you have apple juice? If not I'll have some water. Ty what do you want buddy?

[Ty] *standing there he freezes and stares at Tyler then shakes his head* M-milk please? *never taking his eyes off of him*

[Tyler] Sure, I can do that. Sit sit, I'll be right back. 8smiling at the little boy* It's alright, I'll be right back ok. *he walks briskly into the kitchen and breathes out slowly, almost meditatively as he slices 4 apples and runs them through the juicer, the sound comforting him. He turns to the stove and stirs the noodles and takes them off the heat, straining them quickly and mixing them into the cheese sauce, throwing the whole casserole dish into the oven before pouring a glass of milk and taking it and the apple juice back into the living room* Here you go. *sitting and looking at them both* So. Hi.

[Ty] Thank you for my milk, sir? Tyler? Dad? *looking slightly confused* I really don't know what to call you. *looking down and taking a drink, keeping his eyes on the floor*

[Tyler] *Tucking his feet under him so that he's sitting indian style in the chair, and looking at Jonnie helplessly* Right, well not sir, that's for sure alright. You don't really know me, so I would understand if you don't want to call me dad, but *reaching down and touching the boy's shoulder gently* You can if you want to. If you don't you can just call me Tyler. *to Jonnie* That's alright isn't it?

[Jonnie] You've been dad to him since the minute he was born. His room has always been full of pictures of you, and of us. *smiling at Ty* You call him what ever you want, whatever is in your heart.

[Ty] *handing his milk to his mom he stands and opens his arms and hugs Tyler* Dad, I will call you dad. If you are okay with that.

[Tyler] *the anger he had felt beginning to flare ad Jonnie for never telling him he had a son fades as the small child wraps his arms around him. He hugs him back tightly* Yes ... son. I am okay with that. I'm sorry that I wasn't there for you. *releasing the hug and looking at the boy, but speaking to Jonnie* I really wish I could have been.

[Jonnie] I tried to find you. I even tried to ask your brother to help me find you. No one heard from you, ever.

[Ty] Uncle Lucas? He's your brother?

[Tyler] Jonnie. How is it I haven't spoken to my own family in almost ten years, but you've got my brother on speed dial? *his tone softens when he speaks to Ty* Yeah kid, Lucas is my brother, but I haven't talked to him in a long long time. *standing* I haven't been hiding. You didn't want to hear from me. I wanted to call you, so many times. But you wanted to see other people, so I figured you had found a great excuse to be rid of me. How was I supposed to know?

[Jonnie] *frowning* Your friends and my friends told me not to be the girl who wouldn't let him follow his dream. I cried and I never meant it when I told you I didn't think we should be together anymore. It was a lie, the worst lie I ever told. Because not only did I want to be with you, I never stopped loving you. As for Lucas, he was there from before Ty was born and he brought us to the airport the night we left. He tried to help me raise Ty the way you would, because he loves you too. *wiping tears away*

[Ty] *walking up to his mom* Don't cry mommy. You promised you would tell my dad the truth. Want me to tell him the rest. I know everything from my memory. *smiling at her he turns and looks at Tyler* See, my mom thought you would be happier if you left with no tachments. *looking at her and seeing her smile* Well, how ever you say it. She went to tell you she had made a mistake and you were already gone. She cried and cried but thought you'd come back and fight for her. Then she found out she was having me. I made her sick and she almost died. But, she didn't. She raised me and loved me and told me every night that when we found you, that you would love me too.

[Jonnie] *crying as she picks up Ty and holds him against her* I am sorry Tyler.

[Tyler] She almost what? *to Jonnie* You were sick? *shaking his head, trying to process* Your friends? My friends? What kind of friends are those? Because while your friends were telling you ... *looks up and toward the kitchen, breathing in deeply* Shit, I'll be right back. *walks into the kitchen and pulling the macaroni and cheese out of it, and staring at the bubbling sauce. He closes his eyes for a second and goes to his room, pulling something out of his nightstand table and then going back into the living room* Ok, I just didn't want to burn the macaroni. *looking at Jonnie* Fine, while our friends were out telling you not to kill my dream, I was out shopping. For this. *throws a small velvet box to her and watching as she opens it, And she's right buddy. I do love you already.

[Ty] Woah! You bought that for mom? *whispering to Tyler* That is alot of love there. Uncle Lucas said only special girls get rings.

[Tyler] *whispering back* Uncle Lucas was right.

[Jonnie] Why didn't you come back? *looking at the ring* I never wanted to tell you goodbye. I knew staying wasn't an option, but I would've went with you. I could've gone to school anywhere, and worked, then we could've raised Ty together.

[Tyler] *sitting and looking at Ty* Shouldn't we have this conversation in private?

[Ty] *smiling* You don't have to raise me alone anymore. You found my dad.

[Jonnie] He knows everything. But if you want to have this conversation later that's okay. *standing up and looking at Tyler* Um, can I just do one thing?

[Tyler] I don't mind talking now, I just wasn't sure ... *smiling down at Ty* Sorry, this dad gig's all new to me. *back to Jonnie* Anything. *and in that one word he hoped that she could feel how much he still loved her, that he had never stopped*

[Jonnie] *stepping forward slowly moving she closes her eyes and kisses him, as she parts his lips and slides her tongue in his mouth, she runs her fingers through his hair then pulls him closer as she slowly pulls out of his kiss and steps back looking slightly guilty*

[Ty] *giggling* Mom! *hiding his face* I can't believe you just kissed him.

[Tyler] *pulling her back in and returning the kiss* I missed that. We'll talk, later, we have a lot of things to talk about. But for now . *kissing each of her cheeks then her forehead and then back down for another intense kiss on the mouth, his hands sliding down her back until she was molded to him* I really missed that.

[Jonnie] *after his last kiss she is left slightly brethless* Me too! You have no idea. *picking up Ty she kisses his forehead and takes Tyler's hand* I promise you both right now, no more lies. I will never tell you I don't want you in my life because its not true. And Ty, I will never keep you from your dad. Ever! *hugging Ty and Tyler in a group hug*

[Ty] *hugging his mom and dad* Dad? Don't be mad at her okay? She loves you alot.

[Tyler] I'm not mad. I should be, I want to be, *looking into her eyes, and ruffling Ty's hair* but I can't be. You know what I am though? Hungry. Come on. *taking Ty from Jonnie and putting him on his shoulders, and then taking Jonnie's hand he leads them into the dining room* Sit, sit. *watching as they both sit down he gestures with his wand and calls out, and a parade of dishes come dancing into the room* I didn't know what you liked. *meatloaf, macaroni and cheese, pizza, chicken enchiladas, fettuccini alfredo, garlic bread, a loaf of sourdough bread and chili with wedges of yellow cornbread come out and settle onto the table* Let's eat.

[Jonnie] Wait a minute.. You cooked all this? *shaking her head* Ty is a great eater, not picky at all. I had no idea where that came from, til now. *winking*

[Ty] I think I am going to have some chili and mac and chesse! *grinning as his mom puts some food on his plate* I don't like to cook, I got burned once on my finger. That kept me out of the kitchen ever since!

[Tyler] *looking at the table with pride* I was lonely when I left. I missed you, I didn't want to go out. I took some cooking classes. I found it relaxed me, kept the memories at bay, I found peace in the kitchen. *sitting down next to Ty* Yes, I've been burned before too. *rolling up his sleeve and showing him a smattering of circular scars on his arm* That's from when some water landed in my deep fryer and the oil spattered. It hurt. Don't worry though, I'll teach you, if you want, and we'll make sure you don't get burned on your finger again. But it's a good idea to stay away from the kitchen without a grownup. *to Jonnie, looking stunned* Woah! I'm a dad. Weird.

[Jonnie] *smiling* You are a dad. Look at him, he looks more like you then he does me. And he is freakishly good in sports, even though he is still short. Lucas and some of my friends taught him basketball and baseball. I can't wait for him to see a quidditch match. My cousin Jackson gave my dad some tickets to a few games. Will you join us?

[Ty] I want to play that. I have no idea what it is, but I bet I could learn.

[Tyler] *chuckling* I'll bet you could. You're probably a natural. After all it's in your blood. As much as I'd love to join you to watch a Scotties game, I'll be pretty busy. *winking at Jonnie* I'm a chaser on the team.

[Jonnie] Wait! You play for the Scotties? *breaking down in tears* Do you know how many times I talked to Jackson over the years. I could've found you sooner, but I didn't know. *looking at Ty and then at Tyler with tears running down her cheeks, before running out of the room*

[Ty] I am gonna sit here and eat this. *pointing to his plate* And even some of that. *pointing to the food on the table* Go hug her. She likes hugs.

[Tyler] *smiling at Ty* I like you. You're a smart kid. *kissing the top of his head* You'll be ok, you don't need someone with you while you eat? *at Ty's "what are you stupid?" look he grins* Ok, going going. *he runs after Jonnie, and hugs her tightly* God I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I thought you knew I played for him. You sent the letter, you're the reason he and Conor came to recruit me in the first place.

[Jonnie] I never knew who picked you up. I just knew you were drafted and then all I could do was push you away. *sobbing* I am so sorry.

[Tyler] *hugging her more tightly and kissing her tears away* Shhh, don't cry. Please stop crying. Jonnie *walking with her to the couch and sitting down kissing her again* Jonnie look at me. I'm sorry I never called. I was stupid and prideful. When I came to your house that night I was floating, I was going to tell you that Jax recruited me. That I was moving to Scotland, and that I wanted you to come with me. The ring was practically burning a hole in my pocket. I was going to ask you to spend your life with me and be my wife. And you looked at me, and you so seriously and sincerely said that we should split up. And my world came crashing down around me. I was mad, so very mad. I left your house, I threw my phone in the garbage, I didn't want to talk to anyone. I left the next morning and I tried to forget about you. I didn't want to even think your name. I couldn't believe how my happiness had drained. So I threw myself into my quidditch, and at night, when I couldn't sleep, I cooked. I cooked for the team, I cooked at the shelter down the road, I took classes, anything to distract myself. *looking down, ashamed* There were women too. Nothing serious, never, but I wasn't a monk. I need you to know that. But there was always you. And when I finally decided I should call, I couldn't remember your number. And I figured that it was meant to be. I never asked Jax for your number because I thought that if we were supposed to be I wouldn't have lost you in the first place. 

[Jonnie] I spent my days in bed, crying and refusing to let the world around me in. I tried to go to your house and thought one day I'd catch you there. But you never were. Lucas and I started a friendship when I went to tell your family I was pregnant. They didn't care. Well, Lucas did. He was there for me through everything. He fell in love with me, and I told him I could never be more than his friend because I was still in love with you. He was hurt and disappeared for awhile but then he came back a few weeks before I had Ty. He was there when the doctors told my parents I wouldn't survive the delivery. I begged him to take our baby and find you. He promised he would, but I made it. Lucas is his godfather. *smiling* Then after bringing Ty home, its not that I didn't think about you. I just didn't think about you as much. I went through the days happy and sad. Happy that he was perfect and sad that he was a daily reminder of you. The man I adored and lost. Because I was too scared to believe that we could make it back then. But, here we are. Ty is almost 5 and we have so many years to talk about. *rubbing his hand* There never was any other men for me. I mean I'd date from time to time but I would end up thinking about you and then the hurting would start all over. *putting her head on his shoulder* Oh Tyler. I don't care about the women in your past, all I care about is that I finally found you.

[Tyler] I'm so happy that we found each other again. God Jonnie, except for the child sitting in the next room. Our child. Other than him I could be right back there in California, getting ready to give you that ring. Dammit. It's like I'm whole again, finally. I've been missing this whole section of my soul for so long that I didn't even realize how big that hole was until I saw you standing at my door. And now it's filled again. *looking at the ring on the table* Would it be completely insane if I gave that to you, now, and asked the question I was planning on asking? You don't have to say yes, or even anything at all. Yeah, that's probably insane. Forget I spoke. I'm just going to shut up now.

[Jonnie] *leaning her head on his shoulder* Would it be insane if I wanted you to give me that ring and ask me that question? Because when I think about my perfect future. I don't see just me and Ty. I see you too.

[Tyler] *sighing* Yes, I think it would be insane. *watching as her face falls slightly, he calls out* Ty, buddy, can you come here for a minute? *he grins as the boy enters the room wiping his hands on his pants, Tyler wipes his face and stands up* Do me a favor and just sit right there with your mom. *he takes the ring from the box and looks at it, dropping to one knee in front of Jonnie and Ty* I've lost you once, and I don't intend to ever lose you again. Or you ever little man. I love you as much as I always have, maybe more. And I love you already. I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Jonnie, will you be my wife? *winking at Ty*

[Ty] Say yes mom! Say yes. *jumping up and bouncing in front of her*

[Jonnie] *smiling so wide it hurts, and feeling tears roll down her cheeks* Yes! Yes I will be your wife. Nothing in the world would make me happier. *kissing him and then kissing Ty* I love you, both of you.

[Tyler] *slipping the ring on her finger* I love you too. You bring out the crazy impulsive in me. You are amazing. I don't know how I survived without you, but I didn't live. Not really. *kissing her and hugging Ty* To forever.

[Ty] *jumping on Tyler* I didn't know when mom told me I was going to meet you today, that I was getting a real family. My mom and my dad. I am so happy!

[Jonnie] *laughing at Ty* I didn't either buddy. *looking at Tyler* So, how about you hang out with him for a bit and I will go grab us some pj's and an outfit for tomorrow. Because, I am not leaving here tonight. We have some important things to discuss tonight. *winking at Tyler* Unless you'd rather we came back tomorrow?

[Tyler] Sure *looking at her, still kind of shocked she said yes* sure that's fine. We've got some bonding we have to do anyway, don't we Ty? *wrapping his arm around the child who looked so like he did when he was that age* And I never ate. *to Ty* You want some dessert? *looking toward Jonnie, suddenly cautious* He can have dessert? Does he eat sugar? Any allergies? Things I should know?

[Jonnie] *laughing* So far the only thing he is allergic to is doing chores. And with the exception of a few veggies, he eats everything. Not to much sugar though, he can get a bit hyper. *kissing Ty then leaning in to kiss Tyler passionately* I love you. I will hurry back. I might have to chat with my dad. *rolling her eyes*

[Ty] What's for dessert? *flashing a innocent smile at Tyler*

[Tyler] That was your dad I saw in the hall at the hospital. I'm thankful that he didn't kick the ... heck right out of me when he saw me. He must not have recognized me. He's a good guy, tell him I said hello. *kissing her again and watching as she leaves then turning to Ty and picking him up carrying him into the kitchen and sitting him on the counter* Well lets see, we've got some homemade ice cream, some cheesecake, some cupcakes, and chocolate pudding with whipped cream. Which would you like big guy?

[Ty] Grandpa won't be mad. I told him we were coming here and he got this sad look and he told my mom he hopes she knows what she is doing. *mocking his grandpa's voice*

[Tyler] I like your grandpa, he's smart. He wants to take care of your mom, and so do I. I hope he's not mad at me. *leaning back against the counter and watching his son* You look like a happy kid, are you?

[Ty] I get sad sometimes. But I am pretty happy most of the time. Mommy quit playing sports and stopped singing cause she was so sad. She used to sing to me all the time. *looking at him* She is a really great mom. *smiling* Can I please have some pudding?

[Tyler] *serving up two bowls of pudding, with some whipped cream on top and handing Ty a spoon* Jonnie has a beautiful singing voice. I'm sorry she stopped. We'll have to see about getting her happy enough to sing again. *taking a spoonful of pudding and eating it smiling* Pudding's my favorite too. You have to be careful out here, they call all of their desserts pudding. But there's nothing like a big bowl of cold chocolate pudding is there? *grinning watching as the boy eats*

[Ty] *taking a big bite* That's good pudding! *licking the spoon and setting his bowl down* Dad, can I ask you something?

[Tyler] *taking in his son's serious tone he sets down his bowl too and sits on the counter across from Ty* You can ask me anything son. Anything at all.

[Ty] If you knew mommy was pregnant, would you have moved away?

[Tyler] *trying to think of how to word his feelings best for the child* I would have brought her with me, brought you both. And if she said she didn't want to come I would have stayed and never left you. I promise you, if I had known I would have always been with you.

[Ty] But she wanted you to be happy. She said you were happy when you played that sport. *smiling* I can never be mad at her cause she did what she thought you wanted. I am just happy she won't cry anymore. *picking his bowl back up* She told me my whole life she'd find you. She never stopped looking. *smiling he takes another bite*

[Tyler] How'd you get so smart kiddo? *eating more of his pudding* I am happy when I play, but not as happy as I am now that I have you. I promise i'll try to make she she doesn't cry anymore. Or you either. You're a good boy. Was your uncle Lucas nice to you?

[Ty] He's mommy's best friend. They cried alot when she told him she was moving.

[Tyler] Well I'm sorry they cried. Are you having fun living with your Grandpa and Auntie Joey? **looking completely unsure of what to say next.*

[Ty] Grandpa is funny, and Aunt Joey has a boyfriend. *making a face* She is too busy sometimes.

[Tyler] Well, young people in love, they're always busy like that.*suddenly missing his brother, and jealous that he got to spend so much time with Ty* Does your Uncle Lucas have a girlfriend?

[Ty] He had one, but she was jealous. So then Uncle Lucas told her to leave him alone. He's really busy with basketball.

[Tyler] She was jealous? Of your mommy and Uncle Lucas? That's sad. I'm glad he's having fun with basketball.

[Ty] *smiling* If mommy didn't find you, Uncle Lucas told me he was going to make her fall in love with him. But she always told him he wishes.

[Tyler] *laughing* That's my brother. Just determined to have what was mine. Do you miss him?

[Ty] I miss him alot. He told me he is going to come visit us. *licking the bowl clean then setting it down* Do you miss him?

[Tyler] *looking sad* You know I didn't think I did, but I really do. Your mommy's right, he should come visit. Maybe he'll come out for the wedding. Wow, we're going to get married. You know what big guy? I think your daddy's completely insane.

[Ty] Well, I think you are smart. *smiling* You two lost each other before but now you are making sure it will never happen again.

[Tyler] Exactly right. *grinning and finishing up his pudding* Do you do magic son? I know you're not old enough to go to school yet, but have you done anything?

[Ty] Well, I can do some things. My mom tells me not to do them because people don't always understand. And that I can only use magic for good. Because grandma did some magic, mom said that was bad. But mostly I just follow people around and do what they can do. The closer I am to them the stronger my powers.

[Tyler] Really? That's pretty cool! And yes, you should only do nice things with your magic. Like this *waving his wand and all of the food dances back off of the dining room table and closes up, he opens the refrigerator door and the food all arranges itself neatly on the shelves* That's pretty cool huh?

[Ty] *eyes wide* That is cool! I want to learn that. *looking up at him with pride* How do you feel about me? Because a part of me was scared you wouldn't like me.

[Tyler] *hugging the boy tightly* Oh son. You're cute and super smart and sweet. I don't just like you, I love you so much.

[Ty] *holding his dad's neck* I am glad you love me, because I love you too daddy. *smiling as he hugs him again*

[Tyler] *picking Ty up and carrying him into the living room* Are you allowed to watch TV? Cause I just got a new movie that I think you'll like.

[Ty] I can do that and Uncle Lucas lets me play video games too. *smiling*

[Jonnie] *landing near the tree she smiles as she walks up to the house, knocking and then opening the door* I'm back, sorry it took so long. *walking over to Tyler and Hugging him* That's from my dad. He said, and I quote. Well, it's about time. *smiling*

[Tyler] *hugging her back* Thank god, I was afraid I was going to be castrated. *leaning back against the couch, cudding Ty up agaisnt one side of him, and Jonnie against the other* I have a family. *turning and kissing Jonnie* I love you. I'm glad you're here.

[Jonnie] About that, me being here. Well, in a few days can we stay here for about a week? I am giving up my room to a friend. *kissing him before he can speak*

[Tyler] Sure, you can always stay here. You can wait until after the wedding if you want, but if you don't want to wait you can move in anytime. You have a friend visiting? Anyone I know?

[Jonnie] *looking innocently* You might know this person.

[Tyler] My brother? *at her mock innocent face he sighs* Really? Already? I just got you back, *pouting* I don't want to share you already.

[Jonnie] Well, seems as though a little guy called him this morning to tell him how much he was missing him. I had a message when I got there. I had to call him back and tell him I found you. He sounded so happy. I believe he really does care about you. *looking over at Ty* What did you say to your uncle young man?

[Ty] *looking at her with the same innocent face she used* Nothing? Why do I get blamed for every.... *looking at his parents faces* I told him I missed him and that I wanted him to come see me. And I told him you were making me meet my dad and that I might not be what he wanted in a kid. What if he hated us?

[Tyler] You told him that? Aw, Ty. I could never hate you. Of course Lucas will probably think I did. This is going to be fun.

[Jonnie] *digging out some pj's for Ty* Go change buddy. I need to talk to your dad a minute.

[Ty] *taking his clothes and looking at Tyler who pointed in the direction he needed to head towards* Yes ma'am.

[Jonnie] *watching him disappear then turning to Tyler* He told Lucas to come get him and take him home. He was so worried that you wouldn't be happy I found you. *resting her head on him* I feel so bad. I have told him how much he'd be loved. Why would he think that? Lucas knows that you are happy. He knows about everything. 
 
[Tyler] Don't feel bad. It's not your fault, it's mine for not being there. I should have found you. I should have known.

[Jonnie] *kissing him* We can't change the past. Let's just move on and start over.

[Tyler] Ok, I guess. you're right, we can't change things but we might as well make the best of the situation we're in. *looking her over* You know you're even more beautiful now than you were then. *pushing some hair behind her ear and bringing his lips to hers in a soft kiss* I can't really believe you're here.

[Jonnie] I can't believe I finally found you. *kissing him back* I knew true love would prevail.

[Tyler] So did I. I've been waiting for you so long. And I didn't even realize I was waiting for you. It's like I've been on pause for years, and someone finally pressed play. *kissing her passionately*

[Jonnie] *smiling as Ty comes out in his pj's* Let's watch a movie and then put our son to bed together.

[Tyler] *putting the newest kids movie into the dvd player and settling down on the couch with his family* That sounds like a wonderful plan. Y'all are lucky I like cartoons.

[Ty] *snuggles into Tyler and stretches out on the couch*

[Jonnie] *takes Tyler's hand in hers and holds it tight as they settle into the couch and start the movie*