Unlikely friendships and bonding time.

[Jonnie] *opening the door to her dad's house she smiles when it opens, closing the door behind her and walking straight to the kitchen* Joe, you here? *looking around she sets the box of sample invitations down on the counter* Daddy? Anyone? *opening the fridge she hears the water upstairs start and shakes her head* Of course I would come right as she got into the shower. *grabbing some juice she walks into the living room and stops in her tracks* Lizzy? What are you doing in here?

[Lizzy] *looking up, her eyes wide and taking an involuntary step backwards* Oh. Jonnie. Hi. *tucking some hair behind her head and looking toward the stairs* I'm here with Joey, we're going out tonight but she wanted to shower first. So I was ... umm. just, you know, waiting for her. I can wait outside if you want.

[Jonnie] *sitting on the couch and looking at her* You don't have to wait outside, that is foolish. You can stay in here. I don't bite.

[Lizzy] *sitting on a chair across from Jonnie and tucking her feet under her* Ok. *biting her lip she looks toward the floor* So I hear you're expecting, that's brilliant. Congratulations.

[Jonnie] Thank you. It was a surprise, a good one, but this time Tyler had to tell me. He found out when I was recovering from the accident.

[Lizzy] Yes. That was insane at that press conference, that cow of a reporter accusing him of hurting you. *thinking of the press conference she cuts herself off before taking a deep breath and looking at Jonnie* Right, about that ... other thing. I'm sorry.

[Jonnie] Tyler couldn't hurt anyone. I know what they say is mostly crap so I don't let it bother me. But, I was taken by surprise at the little bonus information. *taking a sip of juice and turning to look out the window*

[Lizzy] Yeah. I could tell. I saw the shock on your face. I just, I don't know what I was thinking even saying yes to going out with him, I should have just scolded him for even suggesting it and sent him on his way to look for you. Maybe if I had you would have been found sooner.

[Jonnie] That's in the past, I can't go back and change anything so I just have to accept it. I can be mad and hate you, but what's the point. You are one of Tyler's best friends so you will be around. Luke is one of my best friends so he will be around. Tyler and I need to accept that some things are out of our control.

[Lizzy] I know. I just feel so badly. I mean I really like you Jonnie. You're a great woman, and when you showed back up I couldn't have been happier for him. *shaking her head* I don't know, that whole night just seems so surreal, it's like it was a dream come to life, sometimes I have a hard time really believing it happened. *looking embarrassed* And you are the last person in the world I should be sharing that with aren't you. I'm sorry, my mum says sometimes my mouth runs off and I have a hard time catching it again.

[Jonnie] When I woke up in the hospital I woke up not wanting to hold Tyler hostage. I wanted him to go and be happy since I didn't know how to make him happy. He told me he asked you out. I knew about everything but the kiss, and I wasn't mad. I was glad that he had a chance to see what was there. He didn't want to ruin your friendship, and I know he cares about you. But kissing you was wrong. Not because I loved him, we weren't together so that doesn't matter. But, because it was unfair to you.

[Lizzy] I feel so weird being alone with him now. It's like I think people are going to look at us differently. I don't want anyone to think that I'm out to get him from you or something. Not that I could if I wanted to. And funny thing is, I don't want to anymore. I spent my one "chance" talking about how wonderful you are for him that that you two need to try to make it work. But of course nobody would believe that if I told them. Except Andy and Joey. So I keep it to myself. But I need you to know, I really don't want him like that, not anymore.

[Jonnie] *smiling at her* I wanted him to go to you. I guess I figured if I couldn't have him, you could. I like you too Lizzy. I have never really said anything negative about you. I did tell him you were allowed over anytime because I don't want to get in the way of your friendship. You were his best friend when he needed one, and now I want you both to continue to be best friends because that is important to me. I can't just stop talking to Lucas. He was my everything for the longest time. So I understand better than you think I might how it all goes from great to crazy after a date. *trying not to laugh*

[Lizzy] It really does. I haven't even really talked to him since then. I just, I don't know what to say. But I don't want to lose him as a friend either. Gosh, how did I let it get all messed up? I'm telling you, I should have just slapped him and sent him away. That would have confused him at least. *giving a cautious giggle*

[Jonnie] I think you should come over for dinner. Just pick up where you two left off before the date. *smiling* Any reason for him to cook will make him a happy guy. I also have a favor to ask you, but I can't ask you until I say something to Joey.

[Lizzy] I'll come to dinner if Lucas can come too. I think he needs to see that it's not going to be different with you two after you have the baby. He's been pretty quiet for the last couple weeks. I'm a little concerned, I haven't known him long, but that doesn't' seem like him.

[Jonnie] *frowning* Luke loves me. Good or bad he'll figure it out. He is just dealing with alot of emotional baggage, and worrying that he doesn't fit into Ty's life when for so long it was just the three of us. I need to talk to him, but he's been so distant. *taking another sip of juice* I don't know what you know about our past, but I do love him.

[Lizzy] I know you do. That's why I want him to come. I keep telling him that things aren't going to change between the two of you. And I know that things are going to be good with little Ty. He's just got this lost expression that makes me sad. *shaking her head* it's not really my business, but I think that if I were to ask him to come with me "for moral support" it might give you a chance to talk to him.

[Jonnie] I think that is a great idea. The four of us have alot to talk about. *smiling at her* So are we okay? I am not doing this for Tyler, I am doing this because you are a good person and I want us to be friends. If you have anything you want to ask or say, please let me know. If we still need to hash stuff out I won't be upset. I know it comes with the territory.

[Lizzy] I, *looking away embarrassed, before turning back to her and giving her a serious look* Ok, if this is out of line you can tell me, but I have to get this out. I was there with Tyler while he pined away for you year after year. And then you came back, and then what happened ... happened. But I need to know that you're not going to hurt him again. I love Tyler. He's my best friend, and he's important to me, and I don't want to see him hurt again. And you're pretty much the only person in the world who can hurt him. I'm just worried about the next time. Does that make sense?

[Jonnie] There isn't going to be a next time. In fact if my slow ass sister would come downstairs I need to ask her if she'll be my maid of honor and I want to have her help me find the right invitation. *turning to face Lizzy* Lizzy, I can't hurt him. I have spent 6 years trying to find him and right my wrongs. I can't change what happened in the past, all I can do is spend the rest of my life loving him. We are going to get this and be that family who takes family photos, and who vacations together, and who probably has a house full of kids. It won't always be perfect, but we will make the best of it. He deserves that much and I know I can give him that.

[Lizzy] You're getting married? *her voice choking a little and she feels the burn of tears in her eyes* Wow. *forcing a smile* Wow, ok. I don't know why this is hitting me like this. I knew it was coming. I knew you were having another baby, and I can't imagine Tyler not marrying you. And he told me you were engaged months ago. But *pulling a tissue out of her purse and wiping at her eyes, frustrated and embarrassed* I'm sorry, that's really excellent. I don't know what's wrong with me.

[Jonnie] *feeling bad for saying anything* He should've been the one to tell you. I am sorry. *moving because she wants to hug her, but scared to* I feel like an idiot now. I am sorry. I seem to keep hurting you and that's not my intent at all.

[Lizzy] No, don't be sorry. I'm good, I'm fine. *smiling at her* I really don't know why I did that. *taking a breath and seeing Jonnie move towards her a bit, she stands and grins as Jonnie stands too. The two women hug each other tightly and Lizzy pulls away to look at her* Best Wishes, really. He's damn lucky to have you.

[Jonnie] That means alot to me. It really does. Promise me that you will drag Luke over for dinner real soon. So, I have one little question. Your wanting to bring Lucas, is there anything there? Because you two would be so cute together. He's a good guy, so sweet and caring.

[Lizzy] I promise I'll bring him to dinner. *laughing* but no. There's nothing there. *blushing and brushing her hair behind her ears again* Luke's a good guy, and I think we've bonded since we have a lot in common right now, with the whole you and Tyler situation. And he's really sweet and caring, you're right. But right now I don't think he can see anyone but you, and I'm not in a place to even think about any guys at all. I think we both just need to learn to be happy alone, and we're learning to be alone ... together. *laughing* I know that sounds barmy, but there you are.

[Jonnie] *getting ready to reply she turns to see Joey sliding down the banister* Dad hates that Joey.

[Joey] *laughing* I know! But I love it. Don't ask me why. *hugging her then squatting down to tap Jonnie's tummy* Hey little fetus. How are you doing today? *kissing the belly before standing up* What's up sis? Where is my Ty-Ty?

[Jonnie] Stop calling my kid a fetus. Weirdo. Ty and Tyler are having a daddy and son day. I was told I am not allowed to be there. By both of them. *frowning* But, it gave me an excuse to come hang out with you. I have a favor to ask you

[Lizzy *sitting down and watching the sisters interact with a smile*

[Joey] Depends on what you are going to ask? Because I have to pack my room and help Nate and Luke pack. I can babysit, but it has to be here.

[Jonnie] *shaking her head* No, you don't have to babysit silly. I want to know if you will be my maid of honor?

[Joey] *looking a bit shocked she shakes her head* Yes, yes I will. *hugging her* Oh my gosh Jonnie! I can't wait. Can I help plan? Please! *seeing Jonnie smile* What's first? The date? It should be soon because dresses aren't usually made with extra fabric in the belly area.

[Lizzy] *laughing* Real sensitive Joe. *shaking her head* extra fabric. I swear. *laughing more*

[Jonnie] *smacking Joey playfully* There is something I need to do first. *turning to Lizzy and smiling* Look, I can't marry your best friend without you in the wedding party. Will you please be a bridesmaid for me? It would mean the world to both of us.

[Lizzy] Who *looking around as though someone else had just appeared in the room, which knowing witches was actually possible* wait, me? Really? *standing up, her face brightening* Seriously? Absolutely! *jumping up and down and hugging them both* Oh I've never been a bridesmaid before, and I can't think of a better reason. You really want me in your wedding, even after all that?

[Jonnie] Of course I want you in my wedding. *laughing as she hugs both girls* I think I will pair you with Nate, since I am sure both Andy and Joe will grumble with me switching them. Plus who wants to dance with their brother? *giggling* Is that okay? You and Nate are cool right?

[Lizzy] Yeah, Nate's great. A bit ... stoic, doesn't say much. And I get the feeling he's not too terribly keen on Andy, but what big brother would be? *giggling* You should see the look on his face anytime Andy gets a phone call when he's over there. It's pretty funny.

[Joey] *shaking his head* Great, imagine when Andy comes to our flat. I am going to have to deal with the gloomy goat. *her small frown going back to a huge grin* So, what can I help you plan. I want to show my helpfulness off.

[Jonnie] *laughing at Joey* There is a box on the counter in the kitchen. Will you grab it and bring it here for me? *watching Joey run out of the room and then run back in* Well, okay then. Sitting on the couch and putting the cards on the coffee table in front of them* This is our first task. We have to find the perfect invitation. *smiling as the three of them start looking at the samples and start planning her wedding, knowing that she was getting ready for a lifetime of happiness with her prince*