THE FACTS OF LIFE (from 1977 until 1981)

by ilovexmas

This is my 1st FOL story and it takes place during the early Eastland years (from 1977 until 1981). The main characters are BLAIR and MRS. G. I have also included all the girls from season 1. I hope you enjoy it! Reviews are welcome! I have posted my story on different sites too, before i knew how to find the right one.

2. Chapter 2

FOL 2

December 1981. Edna Garret was very excited today. Kimberly Drummond, Will and Arnold were going to spend Christmas at Eastland this year. As their former housekeeper and since leaving them for the job as housemother, she hadn't seen them much and she last lost contact with them for a while. Kimberly had attended Eastland back then, but had decided she wanted to go to a public school like her 2 brothers to be closer to them.

"Mrs. Garret it's so great so see you!" says Kimberly hugging her. "Kimberly is that you? You have grown into a beautiful young lady!" Edna embraces her. "Well I'll be 16 soon you know!" jokes the pretty girl. "Where are Will and Arnold? I thought they were coming too.""They're on their way. Dad needed help fixing the garage and you know how manual my 2 little brothers are". Answers Kimberly.

Just then, she sees Blair descending the stairs. They look at each other politely. "Hello Blair. How are you?" The pretty girl cannot hide her discomfort. She had never forgotten how rude the blonde debutante had been to Mrs. Garret when she 1st got introduced: The pampered heiress had almost caused trouble between her former housekeeper and the headmaster when he had spotted smoke coming from the living room. Blair had been hiding behind a sofa with a cigar in her hands and smoking with disregard for anyone. Kimberly had never liked the rich tycoon: Blair had always been nasty to everyone (especially Cindy) and if there was something the pretty girl hated, it was bullying and the debutante was a bully with capital B!

Blair can see the cold eyes Kimberly is directing at her and she feels remorse. She has probably never forgotten what a bad person I used to be…. The blond girl tries to smile: "Hello Kimberly. It's nice to see you". The pretty 15 year old only nods. Suddenly they all hear loud noise coming from upstairs.

Natalie, Tootie and Jo descend the stairs. "Kimberly is that you?! Come here Tootie she has arrived!" Natalie then runs into the pretty girls arms. Tootie joins them for a group hug. Jo just stands there. Natalie introduce them "Kimberly this is Jo. You two have never met because you had left by then." Kimberly smiles at Jo. "Hello Jo.Natalie and Tootie have told me so much about you.I am glad to finally meet you." The brunette shakes hand with her. Blair cannot help but notice the warm approach Kimberly has with all of them but her. She sights and says nothing. She feels numb and rather out of place. She doesn't know what to do to so she just leaves the room and goes to the kitchen

Edna Garret has been observing the scene with great interest. She can feel Blair s sadness by Kimberly s cold greeting and refrains herself from taking the tender hearted debutante in her arms. She knows how much Blair has changed in the last couple of years and she hopes that in time, Kimberly will see that too. Smiling she joins the girls. "Tell me Kimberly, do you still like my cooking?" The pretty girl laughs. "Have you baked any of your lovely cake?" The fiery red haired lady goes into the kitchen followed by them. She notices Blair is nowhere to be seen. She must have left by the back door and decided to return to her room. Apparently Jo misses her too.

"Where is the princess?" Kimberly looks surprised. "Who is the princess here?" Natalie and Tootie cry in unison: "Blair of course! Who else would it be?" The pretty girl remains silence. She realizes they have all become friends with the blonde debutante but she cannot bring herself to forgive and forget.

In the cafeteria,Kimberly is very happy to see all her former friends. Nancy, Sue Ann, Cindy and Molly are talking to her excitedly. Natalie, Tootie, Jo and Blair are standing next to them quietly. They all hear the bell at once. It is time to go back to classes.

"Why don't you come with us Kimberly?" They hear Nancy ask. "Yes, that's a great idea!" Sue Ann is excited. "Are you sure it's a good idea?" Kimberly eyes Blair. "Don't mind her!" Cindy gives the debutante a cold smile. "Come on Kimberly! Say yes. We haven't seen you for a while". Molly insists. "Ok. You convinced me!"

Early in the evening, Blair is getting ready to go out on a blind date. She is very thrilled about it. She hasn't gone steady with anyone since the incident with Chad almost a year ago. She shudders at the memory. She almost got raped but had thankfully managed to escape on time. She sights and marches down the stairs. She hears laughs. Nancy, Sue Ann, Cindy and Molly are sitting in the living room, chatting with Kimberly. When they see her Cindy sneers.

"Look guys it's the pampered heiress." Blair blushes but says nothing. "Well, Blair I cannot believe you have the nerve to exist. Have you ever apologized to Mrs. Garret for insulting her when I introduced her as my housekeeper? If I remember well, you were rather rude and looked down on her just because she didn't have money like you." Kimberly s voice is full of hatred.

"I suppose a debutante like her doesn't know how to do any better." Nancy smirks. "She only knows how to waste money and get in trouble with boys. She almost got attacked last year, didn't you Blair?" Sue Ann is in victory. "Guys, leave her alone or she will be late for her date." Molly feels compassion for the blonde girl.

"Kimberly I am very sorry you hate me so much and you are right about me: I should have apologized to Mrs. Garret and I will never forgive myself for the pain I caused her on her 1st day. I wish I could make it up to all of you, but I can see you won't give me a chance. I am leaving now. Goodbye". Blair makes an exit leaving the girls astonished.

Just then, Edna Garret comes out of the kitchen followed by Natalie, Tootie and Jo. "Hello girls. Are you having a good time with Kimberly?" The pretty 15 year old feels so guilty about having misjudged Blair. "What is wrong Kimberly?" Asks the housemother concerned. "I have said some very nasty things to Blair Mrs. Garret" The pretty girl is mortified.

"What have you done to the princess? In fact, have you all been in this?" The tough brunette glares at the gang."Jo I am sorry and I promise I will stop". Kimberly replies. Nancy, Sue Ann, Cindy and Molly look down on the floor uncomfortable. "Of course you will stop or else I will deal with each one of you". Jo threatens. "I will not tolerate violence Jo." Edna s voice is firm.

"What did you say to Blair Kimberly?" Natalie is intrigued. "I accused her of insulting Mrs. Garret on her 1st day, and for not apologizing to her for calling her poor." Kimberly is full of remorse.

"Blair looked down on Mrs. Garret because she didn't have money?" Tootie is surprised. "No Tootie. Blair looked down on Mrs. Garret because she was a housekeeper. She thought of her as a lower individual".Natalie answers calmly.

"So what else is new with the princess? She thinks she's above of anyone else!" blurts Jo. Edna interrupts:

"Let me tell you something Kimberly. Blair used to be a spoiled brat when I 1st arrived, but I always knew she had a heart of gold. Her behaviour was a way of rebelling herself for being so neglected by her parents. When she 1st set eyes on me Blair was intrigued and didn't know how to express herself, so she insulted me, but it was her way of asking for help. I had to put her in her place and teach her a good lesson but it brought us closer since then. She has become a daughter to me, as well as Jo, Natalie and Tootie. And you're wrong Kimberly: Blair did apologize to me in her own way…." Edna was very emotional now.

"Oh Mrs. Garret I was so wrong. Maybe I should leave if I caused so much damage?" Kimberly asks. "Don't even think about it honey. Will and Arnold will be there any minute. Be a friend to Blair when you see her ok?" says the fiery lady. "Ok. Thank you Mrs. Garret."

It is Christmas Eve.Blair, Jo, Natalie, Tootie and Kimberly are gathered around the Christmas tree. The rest of the girls had gone home to their own family. Suddenly Edna comes out of the kitchen with Will and Arnold at her hills. She had spent the whole day preparing the meal for the next day so now she is exhausted. Tonight they were going to spend it watching TV and chatting. The presents have already been wrapped. It's close to midnight when they all fall asleep in the living room. Only Blair is wide awake and deep in thoughts.

"What are you thinking about honey?" she hears Edna Garret ask." Blair holds her housemother very tightly and cries softly. "I need to apologize to you for making you feel unwelcome and for judging you on your 1st day at Eastland Mrs. Garret. I will never forgive myself for looking down on such a great lady like you.

"Baby I know you did not mean it. It was just your way of wanting attention. I knew then, that you were a girl craving for affection." Edna takes the sensitive girl in her arms and strokes her hair. "Kimberly is friendlier to me now and I know it's thanks to you. The other girls will never like me though, but it doesn't matter as long as I got your love, as well as Jo s, Nat s and Tootie s. I am a very blessed girl." Blair smiles through her tears.

"Darling never doubt of my love for you. I love the 4 of you, but for me you are the little orphan girl I rescued from getting into the wrong path." The maternal woman caresses the blond girl s cheek tenderly. "And for me you are my guardian angel. You are the voice of my conscience and I cannot do anything without thinking about you." A very tender hearted Blair says.

Suddenly someone groans. "What is all that mushy talk I'm hearing? Maybe we should all go back into our own beds. I'll wake the others." Jo then walks towards Natalie, Tootie and Kimberly. "Wake up guys. It's late and tomorrow is a long day."

New years eve. Blair is getting ready for the big night. Tomorrow would be another year and her birthday too. She thinks about her mother and how close to death she had been. Luckily the doctors had detected Monica's cancer soon enough and were able to remove it. She sights. It had only been 2 months of hell but for her it felt like it had just happened yesterday. She looks at the big Christmas tree and sights. She loved this time of the year so much. Why did it have to end so soon?

She is interrupted by Natalie, Tootie and Jo who enter the room: "Happy birthday Blair!" The debutante says: "Thanks guys!" Jo comments: "So how does it feel like to be an old lady?" The blond girl punches her arm. "You are such a grease monkey!" Natalie and Tootie in unison: "Let's go downstairs and help Mrs. Garret with the preparations!" The girls leave arm by arm to join their guardian.

Finally midnight has arrived and they all hug: "Happy 1982 everyone!" Edna walks towards Blair: "Happy 17th birthday baby!" Blair laughs. "I'm hardly a baby anymore. In fact, Jo called me old lady earlier on." The red haired lady hands her a small box.

"Mrs. Garret you shouldn't have." Blair opens it. "I hope you like it. I thought it matches your chestnut brown eyes." The heiress is overwhelmed."I love it the more coming from you." Edna Garret kisses her on the cheek. "The 31st of December will always be your night darling." Blair puts on her neck earrings. She can hear the music coming from the background. Maybe 1982 would be a good year.

Easter 1982.Blair and Jo are very excited. They would get time off. No more exams or worries but free time and the spring had finally arrived. "Catch you later princess. I got to work on my bike!" Jo then runs and Blair just shakes her head. Some things never change. The debutante smiles happily. She thinks of all the lovely walks she would do by herself, smelling the flowers, looking at the blue sky. I am so cheesy but I can't help it. This had been a good semester for Blair so far. She had excelled on all her exams, which was something new. In the past, she had only been brilliant at arts and languages: Maths and history had always been her weakest subjects. Of course she only had Jo to thank for. The tough brunette had been especially kind and helpful towards the blond girl, even though they still teased each other from time to time but it was only an act. Blair couldn't think of a better friend than the Bronx ex delinquent (ex, because Jo no longer got anyone into trouble). Not only was Jo the most honest person Blair had ever met, she was also the best student in the whole school. The debutante often wondered how intelligent a mind could be. Blair felt that before the tough brunette had entered into her life, she hadn't been much of anything.

Blair is so lost in her own thoughts that it takes her a while to hear voices coming from the bathroom. "You are such a dyke Cindy! Don't you think i' v noticed the way you look at me when everyone gets a shower after gym? You are into girls!" The blond debutante freezes on hearing those words. I used to be that bad. The next words mortify her.

"Leave me alone Margot! Why don't you go bother your pampered friend Blair? I'm sure the 2 of you would make a great team!" Cindy explodes.

Suddenly, on hearing the commotions a group of girls gather around them. Margot takes the opportunity to belittle Cindy. "Hey everyone, Cindy has just confessed on being a dyke, would you believe it?" Blair who is standing nearby can see the tomboys face close to tears and decides to take action.

"Stop it immediately Margot or else you'll regret it!" Margot blinks surprised. "Blair is that you? The pampered debutante who thinks of no one but herself? Since when have you become a holy saint? If I remember well you were the one who punched Cindy's face so bad, that housemother of yours had to tear you away. Ha! You are one to talk!" The sensitive blond blanches.

"Listen Margot, I know I'm no person to judge and I was even worse than you when I first arrived at Eastland. But if you don't apologize to Cindy right now I will make sure everyone at school knows about the time you almost flunked on all your exams and how your father had to speak to the headmaster so they wouldn't kick you out of school". Blair sees Margot's face go red from embarrassment and smiles in triumph.

"Well, I got to go anyway or else I'll be late!" Margot walks past all the girls in a hurry. Blair then approaches the teary tomboy.

"Are you ok Cindy? I'm sorry about Margot. Don't take her seriously." The tomboy looks at her for the 1st time. She wants to speak but just burst into tears. Blair embraces her tightly for a while.

Suddenly Cindy speaks up. "Oh Blair I feel so awful! I have been horrible to you all the time and you still defend me. Why?" The sensitive debutante smiles reassuringly. "Well, I did deserve it after all the years I have been nasty to you. Please forgive me Cindy, and if you can find it in your heart not to hate me, I would be very grateful…"

"Blair, I won't lie to you. I hated you so much all those years but you have to understand me: you belittled me with all your nasty comments and you were no better with my best friends Sue Ann, Nancy and Molly. You made us feel inferior to you by throwing all your fancy air at us and it took Mrs. Garret to stop you. I know you have changed for a while now and I'm sure Jo had something to do with it, right?" Cindy sees Blair blushing and smiles.

"Yes Cindy. I admit that Mrs. G did a great job on teaching me right from wrong. She has been a great role model for me from the very beginning. But it wasn't until Jo entered my life that I began to think beyond my shallow world. I had never met anyone so sure of themselves, no matter how little money they had. Do you know that Jo is the 1stperson who told me the truth in my face? Her sincerity is beyond words and I thank god every day for bringing me such a unique person into my life. Mrs. Garret and Jo are the best friends I ever had, and probably ever will." Blair is very emotional. Cindy takes her hand.

"Let's make peace Blair and forget the past. We were still growing then, so it's understandable. You will be a senior next year, and I will be a junior so we are more mature.

"Are we making truce?" They both smile.

Suddenly they hear clap: "I don't believe my eyes! Blair Warner has done a kind deed?!" Says Nancy ironically. Sue Ann and Molly are standing nearby grinning.

"Guys, lay off Blair will you? She has just saved me from Margot just a few minutes ago, so she deserves some respect." Says Cindy firmly. Nancy narrows her eyes at Blair, while Sue Ann and Molly look at her curiously.

"Look everyone. All I can do is ask you for forgiveness for being such a mean brat all those years. No more. So if you'll excuse me now I have to go somewhere." Blair leaves them staring after her while holding her breath. She may have made peace with Cindy at last, but she knew the other girls would never like her.

The next day at school, all everyone is talking about, is the way Blair stood up for Cindy. The sensitive debutante feels embarrassed at the way people are looking at her. Just then, Natalie and Tootie corner her.

"Is this true Blair? You actually defended Cindy, even though she has been like your enemy number one for years?" Jo comes to her rescue.

"Will you guys let the Princess breathe?! It's not as if she discovered a curse for some kind of disease!"

Blair smiles with relief at Jo. The tough brunette grins at her. "I am proud of you!" giving her a friendly slap in the back. The tender hearted blond blushes slightly at Jo's compliment. She rarely ever received any, come to think of it. Usually the tomboy insulted her which was something Blair had been missing lately. That was the way their friendship had started just over two years ago.

Mrs. Garret is standing nearby and puts her hands on the blond girls shoulder saying with tenderness. "I have never been prouder of you…." Blair beams at the warm words and embraces her housemother. "Oh it was nothing. I just couldn't stand by and watch Margot hurt Cindy." It doesn't escape the red haired lady how much her spoiled debutante has grown over the two and a half years, and what a well hidden golden heart she has. A heart she would only let the people she trusted and loved see. This had been a good year for her so far. Her 4 girls had all excelled in their exams, and with each year they were becoming a step closer to her heart. She cannot help but think, how in a more few years they might split and the realization cuts deep into her heart.

Summer of 1982. Edna Garret's worse premonitions have turned reality: she would have to leave Eastland for good and her girls. She feels a tear roll down on her cheek. Her 4 girls who had become the daughters she would never again have. How she could love them so much without being blood related was unbelievable. She thinks of the earlier conversation she'd had with the new headmaster, Mr. Parker.

"I am well aware that you have been working for us just over three years, Mrs. Garret, but I am sorry to say that your services are no longer required. The prices are higher so we have to cut down the budget. From now on we will deliver industrial food. I am sorry to be the bad guy of the movie here, but the world is tough….." The fiery lady explodes.

"You don't know me at all Mr. Parker. I am sure that if Mr. Bradley was here he would never allow anyone to fire me!" The new headmaster smiles cruelly.

"Like I said before, tough world Mrs. Garret so you might as well pack all your belongings. I am in charge now so you will do as I say. There is nothing Mr. Bradley can do to help you. Unfortunately his father took an illness, so his departure was rather prompt." Edna Garret is in despair.

"Will you at least let me stay until I can find another job?" Mr. Parker sights: "If you must."

The conversation had taken place a week ago. Edna Garret had not dared tell the girls about it. She couldn't bear to break their little hearts. Suddenly someone knocks on her door. "Come in!" says the housemother. Jo walks in slowly. She looks around the room and places herself right in front of her mentor.

"What's bothering Mrs. G? And don't tell me it's nothing cos I won't buy it. You have been acting pretty strange lately, and don't think any of us haven't noticed. The only difference is that the others hate confrontations but I'm not afraid of it." Says the tough brunette firmly. Edna smiles warmly at her former delinquent. Out of all her girls, Jo was the most perceptive one. You simply could not fool with a native Bronx.

"Please sit down Jo. I have something to tell you." On hearing those deadly tone Jo's heart freezes for a minute. Boy it must be really bad. I hope she's not dying? The Bronx girl tries her best to stay tough. "Are you sick Mrs. G?" The red haired lady sights before answering.

"I want you to be tough for the other girls Jo: especially for Blair. You know how sensitive she is." Jo is now on the verge of fear. "Will you spill it out Mrs. G?! You're scaring me!" Edna embraces the trembling girl. "What I have to tell you will not affect you as much as you think. You girls are growing. You'll be going to college in a couple of years. The tomboy looks at her guardian tenderly. Edna then proceeds:

"I am leaving Eastland Jo. I have applied for a 4 stars hotel. I will be in charge of the catering business…." On hearing those words Jo feels her world crumble. It takes a lot of strength for her to not run into her mentor's arms. She cries softly. Edna takes the wiping girl into her arms. "Sh. It's ok for you to cry sweetheart."

"But why do you have to leave Mrs. G?" The housemother sights before replying. "You have to promise me not to tell the others Jo, ok? It isn't easy for me to talk about it." The tough brunette puts her hands on her guardian's shoulder. "You know you can tell me anything Mrs. G, but think about how it will affect Blair. She depends on you." The tender hearted housemother is almost in tears. "Jo, please. Do you want to break my heart? The reason I am leaving is because the new headmaster has decided to fire me."

"The bastard!" yells the Bronx girl. "Watch your language young lady." Says the fiery red haired and suddenly Jo realizes this might be the last time she'll hear those cherished words. This time the tears are flowing freely. Edna hugs the girl very tightly. Jo speaks through her tears. "Why?"

"He needs to cut down on the budget. He can't afford to keep me, or so he says." The tough brunette is worried. "How will you tell Blair?" Edna places her hands on the girls shoulder. "I won't. You will tell her after I leave. Promise me that you will take care of her for me Jo."

"When are you leaving?" asks the tomboy. "In 2 days…" The housemother's voice is barely audible. She can feel her tears but does not want Jo to see her like that. "Can I please be alone now, Jo?" the tough brunette kisses her mentor on the cheek. "I promise to be a good replacement for the girls, so you don't need to worry about anything Mrs. G." Edna caresses her cheek. "That's my girl…."

The next morning on her way to the classroom Blair hears something that stops her dead in her tracks:

"I'm telling you what I've heard. Mrs. Garret is leaving Eastland." Nancy's voice is barely audible.

"Get out of here. Mrs. Garret would never do that!" Sue Ann's voice is loud enough.

Blair is in trance now and doesn't realize both girls have noticed her. "Hey look Nancy. The pampered Princess is about to weep." Sue Ann's voice is full of venom. "Don't tell me you didn't know Blair. I thought you and your beloved housemother had no secrets." Nancy adds more fuel. They both giggle.

The sensitive debutante takes off running and locks herself into her room to cry. Had she imagined the whole conversation? It couldn't be. Her 2d mother and very best friend could not leave her just like that. It had to be a mistake. Mrs. Garret has been the best thing that happened in my life after Jo. Someone tries to open her room door in vain.

"Open the door whoever is inside!" yells the tough brunette. Blair gets up to unlock it. Jo looks at her surprised: "Have you been crying Blair?" The blond debutante looks away. The tomboy takes her hands in hers: "has anyone been unkind to you Princess?" Blair cries into her best friends arms.

"Oh Joey, you'll never believe what I heard Sue Ann and Nancy say. Mrs. Garret may be leaving Eastland…." Blair feels Jo's arm freeze. She looks at her friend in surprise: "Jo?"

"I'm going to kill those 2 gossip mongers….." The Bronx brunette swears under her breath. Suddenly it's like a revelation to Blair: "You knew, didn't you? And you didn't tell me? Everyone but me knew. How did you find out?" Jo looks down on the floor uncomfortable.

"Mrs. Garret told you, didn't she? Of course! This is how it happened. Apparently I'm not good enough for her to confide in me but you are….." Jo is full of remorse on watching the vulnerable debutante leave the room slamming the door.

What have I done damn! The tough brunette is torn.

Blair has never felt more betrayed in her whole life. Her beloved housemother has been hiding the truth from her, but not from Jo. Was Mrs. Garret in some kind of trouble? If so, she would have to find a way to help without her knowing. She thought hard. Suddenly something clicked into her mind. She recalled a conversation the housemother had about not having enough money saved up for retirement. It had to be a financial issue. It made more sense she would tell Jo, rather than her. The red haired was too proud to ask for help. She had always managed on her own. The sensitive girl decides to play detectives and goes into the new headmaster's office.

Blair knocks the door. "Come in!" She hears a sharp voice. "Hello Mr. Parker. My name is Blair Warner and I would like to talk to you about Mrs. Garret."

"She's leaving tomorrow morning." He says still in a sharp voice. Blair smiles at him seductively. "Now this is very interesting. I thought you normally had to give a month notice and it's been hardly 2 weeks…" Mr. Parker interrupts the debutante. "What are you getting at, Miss Warner?" Grinning like a Cheshire cat Blair answers:

"Mr. Parker, you know that my father has millions and that he practically owns the country, right? One bad move coming from you and I could have you fired in a flash." The headmaster swallows with difficulty. "I assure you that I had nothing to do with it, miss Warner and I will do anything in my power to keep the housemother here." Smiling sweetly the debutante answers:

"I am glad we understand each other. Now would you please give her the good news? In fact, let's make this anonym. If I find out you have mentioned my name I will sue you, are we cleared?" Mr. Parker swallows hard before replying: "crystal clear…."

That same evening a very excited Edna Garret leaves the headmaster's room. She would not be leaving Eastland after all, and she only had a guardian angel to thank for it. She couldn't wait to share the news with Jo. She feels a little remorse for having kept the secret hidden from Blair. She knew that if the debutante ever found out there would be fireworks. Out of all her girls, Blair was the one who had a tendency to be jealous.( Not that she let anybody know) but on more than a few occasions Edna had seen the look of envy the blond girl had, if the housemother spent more time with one of the other girls. It was probably due to the lack of nurture and attention the tender hearted debutante had never received from her biological parents. Suddenly she sees Tootie and Natalie running towards her.

"Oh Mrs. Garret we are so happy you are not leaving us!" The chubby girl says hugging her guardian tightly. "Whatever are you talking about Natalie? " The fiery red haired cannot believe what she hears. "Come on Mrs. Garret! Nancy and Sue Ann told us how they overheard saying you had to leave Eastland." Tootie says. Out of the corner of her eyes Edna sees Blair walk towards them. Does she know too? The look she gets from the debutante confirms her worst suspicions. She can see the hurt on Blair's eyes at finding out on her own terms. The housemother goes near her.

"Blair I can explain." The blond girl takes her guardian's hands. "Don't feel the need to apologize Mrs. Garret. I understand. I am so happy you are not leaving us…." Blair hugs her tightly for a moment and continues to walk leaving a confused Edna stares at her. Shortly afterwards Jo bounces by.

"What's up Mrs. G?" The housemother looks at her. "Did you know i am not leaving now Jo?" The Bronx girl looks at her perplexed. "Gee, that's great Mrs. G! What made you change your mind? Had Mr. Parker anything to do about it? It was about time the man came to his senses!" Edna looks at the tomboy thinking.

"Mr. Parker had nothing to do with it Jo. But maybe somebody else did? Jo, did you tell Blair by any chance?" The tough brunette has a hurt look on her face. "Heck, no Mrs. G! I thought you had more faith in me?" Still thinking the fiery lady replies:

"To tell you the truth Blair didn't seem a bit surprised. She only hugged me and walked away." The tough brunette is astonished. "But how could she know?" Edna points at Natalie and Tootie. "The same way they found out. They overheard Nancy and Sue Ann." Jo can feel her head go red. Of course! Those 2 gossip mongers were worse than piranhas and they loved to torment Blair. Seeing the enraged look her delinquent had, the guardian tries to stop her.

"Remember that violence is not a solution Jo." The tough brunette explodes: "But Mrs. G, don't you realize those 2 bitches enjoy nothing more than to hurt the Princess!" Edna replies. "And I will not have you swearing either. I am proud of you for wanting to protect your best friend but there are other ways." Jo reluctantly replies: "Oh yeah? Well the only way we Bronx people know how is the hard way!" The kind housemother embraces the troubled girl. "Sh. I know how you feel baby, but believe me when I tell you that requiring violence would only get you kicked out of school and what would become of me without my beloved delinquent?" Jo looks at her housemother surprised. "Would you really miss me that much Mrs. G? I always thought Blair was your favourite?"

"I love my 4 girls equally, although in different ways. For me Blair has always been like my own flesh, the orphan I have been looking for all my life, and found; Natalie was the shy forgotten girl no one paid attention to, but who craved so much of nurture; Tootie was the little girl who only wanted to be loved; And you my dear are the tough delinquent who was looking for a firm hand to look after her, and you found me. So you see: if any of you ever walked out on me it would break my heart…" Jo doesn't know how to answer to such emotional words. In fact, she has never been the mushy type like the other 3 girls were. In the end she kisses her guardian on the cheek. "Thanks Mrs. G. I love you too." The 2 younger girls approach them:

"Can we get a kiss and hug too, like Jo?" the black girl says. Edna garret embraces both Natalie and Tootie. "I am a very blessed woman with 4 daughters! And a guardian angel has saved me from leaving Eastland, although I still don't know who it is." Suddenly a realization hits the tender hearted woman hard. Blair. It had to be her sensitive girl who did it. "Oh my god how could I have been such a fool?" Edna says in a high voice. "What's wrong now Mrs. G?" Jo is concerned. Her guardian looks at her.

"Oh Jo I should have known. Blair did it. She is the one who saved me from leaving Eastland….." The Bronx girl looks at her suspicious. "Are you sure? I mean, how would she do it?" The look the red haired lady gives her confirms it. "Of course: with money as usual! That's how the Warners solve anything!" Edna is now worried. "Jo, please: Blair did it out of love because she cares about me and did not want to see me leave Eastland." The tough brunette looks at her unconvinced. "I still see it as a hand out. The Warners think they can buy people just because they have money! They are the worse kind and Blair is no better!"

Suddenly Jo who is lost in her own words hears gasps and realizes her mistake too late. Blair is standing there looking at her with a hurt look. The tender hearted debutante has heard everything the Bronx girl has said and tears are flowing down her face. The next thing she says breaks Jo's heart.

"Is that really what you think of me Jo? Am I really this bad that you of all people hate me? I thought you were my friend but I was wrong. You are not better than Nancy or Sue Ann. In fact you are worse, because you pretended to care when you really hate me!" Blair runs away leaving a heart broken Jo in tears…

Edna Garret who had witness all the drama is torn about what to do. Her 2 beloved girls had the biggest argument she had ever seen, and it breaks her heart to see them so angry at each other. In the end she decides to look for Blair. She knows Jo has gone out for a walk, and that Natalie and Tootie have gone to the cinema. She takes a plunge and opens the girl's bedroom door. Blair is sitting in her bed reading a book. She clears her throat.

"Can I talk to you Blair?" No answer. "I know what you did for me and I want you to know that I love you very much darling…." Blair looks at her in surprise. "What are you talking about Mrs. Garret? What did I do?" The tender hearted housemother takes the girl in her arms while saying: "I am talking about you going to Mr. Bradley so I didn't have to leave Eastland." The debutante looks at her astonished. "But how on earth did you know? I never told a soul…." Edna kisses her hard.

"Don't you think I know you well enough by now to consider you my own flesh and blood? When are you going to realize you have a golden heart my darling?" the tender hearted girl rests her head in her beloved housemother's chest and whispers: "I could not bear to see you leave. You are everything to me and without you my life would be empty. Do you know that I love you more than my own biological mother? It was the least I could do to threaten the headmaster." Still holding her Edna replies:

"And of course you overheard Nancy and Sue Ann, right?" Blair nods. "Well, let me tell you something young lady. When Jo found out how hurt you might be she threatened to beat those girls. Of course I had to stop her." Edna chuckles. "Joey was willing to do this for me? I guess she doesn't hate me then." Blair says relieved. "Jo cares so much about you Blair. She tends to let her tongue get loose but that's because there are certain things she can't understand. I am sure you can talk to her later on, though?" The housemother's eyes are twinkling. "Thank you so much for this talk Mrs. Garret. I don't know what I would do without your wise words." Blair stands up and decides to go searching for her best friend.

After what feels like hours Jo decides to walk back to school. She hears footstep. "Who's out there?" She hears a voice she knows so well. "Relax grease monkey. It's just me." The Bronx girl is overjoyed on seeing her dear friend standing next to her. "Blair? Why are you here?" The debutante says to her. "Do you want me to leave?" She then turns her back but the tomboy stops her. "Oh no. you're not going anywhere Princess." Blair looks at her in surprise. "Not until I tell you how sorry I am…." A heartbroken Jo says. In answer to that, the sensitive debutante takes the distraught brunette in her arms. "I am sorry too Joey. You are my best friend. My sister at heart and I love you…." Jo cries softly in Blair's shoulder and they walk arm in arm back to their beloved Eastland.

September 1982. Edna Garret was making a special dish for her girls. Almost 3 months had passed since she last seen any of them: my girls. Summer vacations were finally over and this was another year at Eastland. Jo and Blair's last year realizes the tender hearted housemother with regret. Next year her 2 oldest girls would be in college and away from her watchful eyes. The door opens and her 4 beloved girls yell: "we're here Mrs. Garret!" The red haired lady hugs them tightly. "I have missed you so much girls!" She looks at each of them one by one.

"Tootie you have grown so much! Natalie you've lost some weight! Jo, you're tanned! Is that a new outfit you've got Blair?" They all laughheartily and look forward to their new school year.

On her way to the classroom Jo is walking with Blair, Tootie and Nat when a tall blond lady in her twenties stops her. "Excuse me young lady but I am new here. Could you tell me where the senior English class is?" The Bronx girl takes an immediate like at the warm lady. "Come with us. I am a senior. Are you one of the girl's big sister or are you just visiting?" The tall blond lady looks at her amused.

"I am the new English teacher. And you are?" The tomboy is so astonished she has lost her voice. Blair speaks up for her. "Hello there. My name is Blair and she is Jo. We will both be attending your class." The lady shakes hand with both girls. "My name is Maggie and I am very pleased to meet such lovely young ladies." The tough brunette cannot explain why she feels so drawn to this young lady. Usually she's not the mushy type. What's wrong with me? Is Blair brushing up on me? Usually she is the tender hearted one, not me. The new English teacher is also very drawn to Jo. She likes the way the brunette puts up a tough façade, when all she can see is a soft heart. "We'll catch you later guys!" cry Tootie and Natalie in unison.

When the 3 of them arrive in class they see a few new faces. Sue Ann and Nancy are sitting beside each other as usual. When they see Blair they smirk at her. Maggie immediately notices at Jo scowling. "Is there something you two want to tell me or do you want to talk to the Princess privately?" Nancy and Sue Ann look down the floor at once and remain silent. The tough brunette growls: "I didn't think so." Maggie is fascinated by the tomboy's protection towards her blond friend she calls Princess. She pretends to be tough but she is a teddy bear. Blair smiles at her best friend in gratitude. Jo grins back at her thinking: no one messes with my Princess. The bell rings at once. Maggie speaks up:

"Hello to everyone. My name is Maggie Warner but you don't need to call me Mrs. to make me feel old. I am your new English teacher and I am 26 years old." She then smiles at Jo and Blair reassuringly. "I look forward to a great senior year, after all this is my 1st teaching session." The Bronx girl looks at her in admiration. She has never met such a young person wanting to teach in such a prestigious school. From that moment on, she knows without a doubt that this young lady would become an important part in her life.

December 1982. Jo and Maggie are walking together and laughing when suddenly she sees her new dear friend bend like she was having bad cramps. "What's wrong Maggie? Do you have your time of the month or what?" The tall blond lady looks at her younger friend with tenderness. She caresses her cheek before replying: "oh it's nothing Jo. It's probably something I ate earlier on." The tomboy looks at her in concern. "You aren't hiding anything from me, are you Maggie?" The English teacher lies to her. "Why would I hide anything from you honey? You are the smartest young girl I have ever seen and very important to me. And you have to keep your promise to me to become the best English teacher in history!" She then caresses Jo's cheek playfully. "Thank you for all you have tough me Maggie. I shall never forget you for as long as I live."

The Bronx girl's words are like staggers through her heart for the tall blond lady. If only she knew how true her words are. Soon I will be gone and there is nothing I can do about it. Maggie is very saddened by her reality. She had been diagnosed with cervical cancer just a month ago, when she was adjusting so well to her new environment. Why was life so unfair? She had met the most amazing intelligent young girl and soon she would lose her. What would become of her young friend and how would she tell her the truth: the only people who knew her deadly secret where the other teachers, the headmaster and the housemother. She could not bear to see her friend get hurt. She had to keep her in darkness for her own sake. When the time came for her to leave, she would simply tell her that a new job opportunity had come and hope Jo wouldn't hate her for deserting her. Another sharp pain forces Maggie to bend over. The tough brunette cannot take it any longer: "What is it Maggie? Do you want me to take you to the infirmary?" The English teacher smiles at her reassuringly. "Yes Jo. Maybe I could lie for a while." The tomboy takes Maggie's hands and they walk to the infirmary. The nurse opens the door for them. "My friend is not feeling well today. Would you please look at her?" Jo says worried. Maggie has trouble standing. Nevertheless she asks Jo to leave her alone with the nurse.

On her way to the dorms Jo freezes when she hears Sue Ann talking to Nancy, Cindy and Molly excitedly: "I am telling you the truth guys! Maggie is leaving Eastland at the end of the month."

Jo stops dead in her tracks. She could not have heard those words. Maggie her idol, would not be leaving Eastland before she graduated. They had even made plans for the big ceremony. The English teacher had promised to read a poem in her honour and to visit her often at college. She'd even made promises to continue tutoring her. The tomboy can feel tears rolling down her face. What she hears next confirms it:

"Apparently she got a new job offer in Atlanta: one that pays really well if you know what I mean." Nancy comments: "You don't say! I wonder if Jo is aware that her idol will be deserting her soon. Sometimes I think those two are too close for a teacher and a student." What Molly says next is too much for Jo to bear: "I wonder is Blair is jealous. If it were me, and my best friend was spending more time with somebody else I would." The Bronx girl cannot stand it any longer and decides to go out for a walk to calm her nerves.

The next day at school Maggie notices right away Jo's cold attitude towards her. Does she know something? Thinks the English teacher worried. She looks at her younger friend for confirmation, but the tough brunette is giving her the cold shoulder. Blair also notices Jo cold demeanour towards her favourite teacher. She wonders if they are simply having their 1st fight, like any good friends would. She knows how close Maggie and Jo are. They had bonded right away. Like Mrs. Garret and me. Lately though, her beloved housemother had been so busy catering for meetings, that she hadn't had any time for any heart to heart talks with her. On top of that, her very best friend had distanced herself to spend time with her beloved English teacher. The bell rings and everyone gather their books to leave in a hurry. Maggie approaches Jo.

"Are you mad at me Jo? Have I done something to offend you?" The tough brunette explodes: "I can't believe you have the nerves to ask me such a question when we all know the reason why you are leaving school: you couldn't wait to get more money, right!" Maggie is saddened when she hears those words but cannot deny them. "Who told you?" Jo is angered by the minute.

"So it is true, isn't it? How could you be such a hypocrite and pretend to be my friend when you were planning to leave all this time?" Maggie tries to reason with the Bronx girl. "It isn't like that Jo. I really do care about you and you cannot imagine how much I will miss you." She wants to caress the young girl's cheek but Jo brushes her off. "Leave me alone and go to your fancy school. I don't ever want to see you again. So why don't just leave tomorrow instead of at the end of the month?" The tough brunette storms out of the room leaving the English teacher stare at her with tears in her eyes.

Early the next day when Jo enters the English class she is surprised to see that Maggie hasn't arrived yet. She had probably taken her advice and decided to leave school earlier after all. Good. Who needs her anyway? Suddenly Mr. Bradley walks into the class and clears his throat.

"I am sorry to be the one to have to give you the bad news, but Mrs. Wagner has been taken to the hospital last late last night. It was rather sudden and I'm afraid it looks bad. You see, she has cervical cancer…" On hearing those last words Jo gets up her seat and runs as fast as she can.

The Bronx girl enters the nearest hospital she sees in town and goes to emergencies. "Could you please tell me if Mrs. Wagner is a patient in here? My name is Jo and I need to tell her I'm sorry right away…." Jo let the tears run freely in her face. "Mrs. Wagner you said? Let me see. Yes, she is in room 13. Are you a relative of her?" asks the nurse. "Yes, I am her younger sister. Please let me talk to her?" The Bronx girl is in despair. "Of course dear, but she is unconscious right now." Jo smiles the nurse in gratitude and walks towards room 13.

When she sees her beloved friend and idol lie unconscious in her bed she cries silently. She walks towards her bed and take Maggie's hands in hers. "I don't know if you can hear me but I want you to know that I love you very much and how sorry I am for having been such a bad friend to you." Jo bends towards her and kisses her cheek. Maggie then opens her eyes. "Did you really mean what you said, about loving me and being my friend?" Jo hears her say in a fainted voice.

"With all my heart: i should have realized there was something wrong with you that day I took you to the infirmary." Maggie caresses the young girl's cheek. "You couldn't have known. You felt naturally betrayed." Jo looks at her before replying. "I should have been a better friend. Please forgive me." The English teacher kisses her friend's hand. "There's nothing to forgive darling. I love you too but I am not getting any better." The Bronx girl freezes on hearing those words. "How long do you have to live?" Maggie doesn't answer immediately. "Not long." Jo starts to cry softly.

"You have to promise me to be strong Jo. And to become an English teacher in my honour, will you?" Maggie holds the tomboy's hands firmly. "I promise." They hug tightly. "I will miss you so much my young friend…

"Suddenly Jo is enraged. Why was this happening to such a young person? Was there no mercy or god on this planet? Maggie was her idol. The most passionate friend she had ever had and now she was going to lose her for a killer disease just when things had been going so well and smoothly between them. This could not been happening. Not now. Not ever. She cries in frustration and runs out of the room. She hears Maggie call her but is too heartbroken to stop.

A week later, Maggie's Warner funeral takes place. Edna Garret is standing with her 3 girls. Jo is too heartbroken to attend the funeral. She is riding on her bike thinking about Maggie. How she would never hear her laugh. See her eyes smile at her.

Jo is too angry to cry. Suddenly she realizes she has arrived at the church where her idol would be buried. The Bronx girl steps out of her bike and walks slowly towards the cemetery. She sees her housemother holding Blair's and Natalie's hands. Tootie is standing next to Molly, Cindy, Nancy and Sue Ann. The headmaster is also there. She then hears the priest begin his speech: "we have lost another young life, but let me assure you it was in god's will…" The Bronx girl explodes:

"What god? There was never a god for me and there never will be! If that was the case Maggie would still be with us! Where is the justice here? You have some nerves to talk! What kind of god would let such a brilliant person die at such a young age? She was so full of life and ideals. She loved to teach young people and was passionate about everything she believed in. This isn't unfair and I will never forget her, for as long as I live. Goodbye Maggie and forgive me for not having being able to save you…" A heartbroken Jo takes off with her bike thinking about how things would never be the same.

June 1983. The day of Jo and Blair's graduation has finally arrived. Jo was especially glad her senior year was about to end. It had been the toughest 6 months she had to endure after losing a friend at such a young age. She was at the top of her class now and after college she would become an English teacher in Maggie's memory. For Blair on the contrary it had been a rather difficult year. Jo had distanced herself from everyone, including her. They had applied for the same college, but even so, the tender hearted debutante knew she would not see much of the tough brunette. Tootie and Natalie also felt neglected. They missed their older friend's joyful nature and knew that once she left the school, they would never her again. Edna Garret cannot bear to see one of her girls leave Eastland without a second glance. She decides to take action and thinks of a plan to reach out to Jo.

Later on that day Edna Garret opens the girl's bedroom door holding to boxes in her hands. "Girls, I have brought you farewell gifts." Jo is a little annoyed. "You shouldn't have Mrs. G." Blair decides to break the ice. "Of course she should. We're graduating." The housemother laughs on hearing the debutante's comments. She would miss her 2 older girls so badly. She tries to stop a tear from rolling down her cheek. She decides to approach Jo 1st. She hands her the box and waits for her to open it.

"You know I just love to see people open their present!" Edna says. The Bronx girl opens her gift to stare at some kind of stone. "That's lovely Mrs. G. It's a rock!" Blair, Natalie and Tootie look at the precious stone with curiosity. "It's a Geo. it reminded me of you: tough on the outside, but inside there are lots of wonderful things going." Edna Garret says very emotional. "Thanks Mrs. G. I'll keep it in my desk and think of you." Jo is overwhelmed. "Just promise me you'll never throw it at Blair!" They all laugh.

The housemother approaches Blair next. She waits for her to open the box. "Mrs. Garret. This pullover is lovely!" The housemother answers: "i knitted it myself." The tender hearted debutante is touched. "You went all this trouble for me? There's got to be a story to it." The red haired lady cannot think of anything to say. "I thought it would keep you warm." Blair insists. "And?" the housemother blinks. "And that it would match your golden chestnuts eyes." The jealous blond girl cannot believe that's all there is to it. She feels left out and like second best. She cannot help but feel that her guardian had gone out of her efforts to please Jo, but not her. Hurt and betrayed she explodes:

"Is that all? What about all your words of wisdoms? What about my inner self?" Edna sees clearly how rejected Blair feels and feels remorse. She knows she has neglected the debutante lately, gone out of her way to reach out to Jo. She tries to reassure the sensitive girl that she still cares for her, and hasn't forgotten her. "Blair you don't need me to tell you about your inner self?" The look the debutante gives her is enough to see how wrong she is. She rectifies herself. "I can't think of another girl who's grown as much as you have. You've matured. You're sensitive, and caring, and I feel lucky to have you as my friend." The tender hearted blond is so relieved and touched on knowing her housemother still loves her. She hugs her guardian very tightly.

Jo observes the scene with tenderness. "You're the best Mrs. G." The red haired lady embraces both her girls and cries silently. "Just promise me girls that you will never forget about me, and that you will look after each other." Jo and Blair say in unison: "we promise." Natalie and Tootie decide to join them for a group hug. The 5 of them remain holding each other for a while, afraid to let go.

September 1983. 18 year old Blair and Jo were beginning their freshman year at Langley. They had both been accepted and today was their 1st day. It was strange not having their beloved housemother and little friends Nat + Tootie around. The 5 of them had become a family in the last 4 years they had been forced to live together. Of course they'd promised to keep in touch but things would never be the same. The chain had been broken and they had split. Nancy and Sue Ann had been accepted at another college, so it was unlikely they would ever see them again. Cindy still had a year to go, while Molly was in the same class as Tootie.

Meanwhile at Eastland 16 year old Natalie was excited to enter her junior year. She was the older girl now and had a right to boss 15 year old Tootie who was just a sophomore. She was sad to think of her 2 older best friends gone. She had never met such opposite best friends as Blair and Jo. She recalls when a 12 year old vain debutante 1st started at Eastland and how she had been the meanest girl back then. How it had taken a certain fiery red haired lady to mould the pampered heiress.

She thinks of the day a tough delinquent changed everybody's life at Eastland. How she had known then, that her and Tootie's life would never again be dull. She cherished those almost 4 years gone too soon…..

A week later Edna Garret was getting ready to visit her 2 college girls with Tootie and Natalie. She had baked a cake for the occasion. She was so happy to finally be able to escape the pressure of Eastland. Oddly enough, the school had become a nightmare after Blair and Jo's departure. Mr. Parker had added more hours for the housemother and loaded her with hard work. Lately the red haired lady had toyed with the idea of opening her own gourmet shop. She knew all she had to do was to call one of her sons. Both of them had connections and they could easily arrange something for her. In fact, the more she thought about it, the more she liked the idea. "Come on girls let's go before Mr. Parker decides to cancel my only day off." Tootie and Natalie take their guardian's hand and leave the school hurriedly.

When the 3 of them arrive at Langley they soon realize how different it is from Eastland. The people there dress and speak differently. Their carefree demeanour impresses the red haired lady who only gaps at them. Suddenly she hears somebody giggle and soon enough comes face to face to a very different version of the Blair she remembers.

This new Blair has bleached spiked hair, heavy make- up and wears sunglasses. Her mini skirt is so short all you can see is her black boots. Edna gasps at her horrified. What had become of her sensitive debutante? She had just started a week ago and already she was another person. Blair giggles like a silly school girl. Standing next to her are 3 girls the housemother has never seen. One of them is very pretty. She looks Latin with her wavy black hair. The others 2 are rather plain. Both have mousy brown hair and are wearing kilts with pins on it. Blair makes the introduction:

"Hello Mrs. Garret. It is nice to see you. Let me introduce you to my 3 new friends: this is Boots she says pointing the Latin pretty dark haired girl, she is our cheerleader and the others 2 are Miriam and Valerie." Edna looks at the debutante angrily. "Where is Jo Blair and why are you dressed like a femme fatale? Have you gone back to your wild ways, because if you are I am just on time to straighten you again." The heiress burst out laughing. "Come on Mrs. Garret lighten up. My new look is called "The new romantics": it's the 80ies era now so people have more freedom."

Just then Jo joins them followed by Natalie and Tootie. "Is that you Blair? What happened to your neat appearance?" The black girl asks her gaping at her. "I must confess that you look wild and more dangerous than Jo." Natalie giggles followed by a scream when the tough brunette punches her arms. A very furious Edna Garret addresses Jo:

"Will you tell me what is happening here and what has gone into Blair's head? Why is it that the minute i turn my back, you girls turn wild?" The Bronx girl doesn't know what to answer so she shrugs. "I had nothing to do with what the Princess has become, Mrs. G. Soon after she joined the "gamma" sorority club she changed her look. The fiery lady glares at Jo before responding. "I see. But are you 2 still friends at least?" Jo looks down the floor before replying. "Not really. We don't see each other that much anymore. We just don't have the same interests. I know you don't want to hear this Mrs. G but we are no longer the teenager girls of the carefree years." Edna Garret is very saddened when she hears the Bronx girl speak that way. From that moment on, she decides to leave Eastland and open her new Gourmet shop close by, so that she can keep an eye on her older girls. She would go to the headmaster's office right after arranging something with her sons. Then she would ask the 4 of them to move in with her and help her install her own bakery. She hears Blair giggle again and sights. She could not believe that her sensitive girl had taken a wrong turn. She would do anything in her power to keep the trouble debutante right.

Two weeks later Edna Garret hands her notice. She is in Mr. Parker's office. When the headmaster read her letter of resignation he is too shocked for words:

"Will you please tell me why are you leaving us Edna? I thought you liked it here at Eastland. In fact, not so long ago you were heartbroken about the idea of leaving this school and your girls."

"Mr. Parker, I am taking Natalie and Tootie with me. They will still be attending Eastland of course, but they will live in my new home." The headmaster smiles ironically. "And where will that be when we all know you don't have a house. Don't tell me you're taking them to Appleton?" The fiery red haired lady answers calmly: "I am opening a gourmet shop with a little help from my 2 sons. You have a month to find a replacement for you. I will be gone by the end of the fall."

"You can't just take those 2 girls with you. I know you like to pretend they are related to you, but you are not their biological mother. Do you realize that they have parents of their own? You don't have the authorization and once they found out…" Edna interrupts. "I have already spoken to Natalie and Tootie's parents and they both agree with me, so you see Mr. Parker, it is all been taken care of."

The headmaster smiles at her bitterly. "You know Edna I have really underestimated you and I'm sorry. You will be deeply missed here and in the short time I have known you, I have come to care very much for you. Oh I know I'm not much of a person to show my emotions but I mean it when I said that you are quite a remarkable lady. I shall be sad to see you leave next month but I am happy for you." The red haired lady realizes she had underestimated Mr. Parker too. She had always thought of him as a tough careless man, with no consideration for anyone but himself. Hearing him express himself like this meant a lot to her. "Thank you Mr. Parker. I want you to know that I have enjoyed living here for the past 4 years. Eastland has been like a second home to me after my hometown Appleton." They shake hands and shortly afterwards the fiery lady smiles pleased with herself.

Autumn 1983. Finally after a month of hard work, Edna Garret has finally moved into her new bakery with her 2 younger girls. The red haired lady has built a lovely gourmet, with a little help from Natalie and Tootie. She hadn't seen Jo and Blair for over a month now, and she really missed them. Now that everything was done, she would go to their college to speak with them about the new arrangement. She knew how delighted the Bronx girl would be. With Blair though, she wasn't so sure. Instinctively she knew that the debutante had distanced herself from her and it really hurt. She knew that once you started a new life, things were bound to change, but still. She sights and decides to speak to each of them later on this afternoon.

When she arrives alone at the Langley College, Edna Garret asks the headmaster where she can find Jo and Blair. "Miss Polniaczek is right here." He says pointing to the tough brunette who is sitting in the living room reading a book. "Thank you." The red haired lady walks towards the Bronx girl.

"Hey Mrs. G I'm so glad to see you! I was wondering if you forgotten us?" Jo embraces her guardian tightly. "Honey I could never forget my girls. I have some news I'd like to share with you, but will you please tell me where Blair is?" The tomboy looks down at the floor. "I don't know Mrs. G. Lately things have gone out of control with the Princess. She goes out with a different guy every night and she has also been skipping classes. I'm actually surprised she hasn't been fired yet, but probably the Warner industry has something to do with it. When you have that much money you can buy people." Jo's voice is full of bitterness. Edna cannot believe her ears. Things had gone out control and she wasn't about to let it continue. When she speaks next, her voice is full of authority.

"Tell me where I can find her immediately Jo, please." The tough brunette looks uncomfortable before replying: "There is a bar about a mile from her where she likes to hang around. I have a few hours free so I can come with you if you like?" The fiery red haired lady nods: "Very well. We are taking my car." While they drive the housemother spots Blair riding behind some guy's motorcycle. They ride so fast that for a while, she loses them from sight. She continues driving when Jo suddenly says:

"That's the bar at the corner Mrs. G." They get off the cars and walk towards the bar. Edna is disgusted at what she sees inside. Black leather jackets people with spiky hair are smoking at the top of their lungs. She coughs. Suddenly she hears someone giggling and sees the pampered debutante smoking a cigar with some sleazy guy. Somehow this feels like a deja vue. It brings back memories in how she had 1st met the heiress just over 4 years ago. She narrows her eyes and walks towards Blair.

"Oh hello Mrs. Garret, what are you doing here? Would you care for a cigar?" The debutante laughs. The fiery lady is enraged: "Do I look like I want to smoke to you Blair? What has gone into you and where is the sensitive girl I knew?" The sleazy guy next to the Blair sneers. "Who's this old lady honey? Is she bothering you cos I can take care of her if you want me to?" The debutante looks at him before replying:

"There's no need Max. It's between her and me. Look Mrs. Garret. I am not the same girl you knew from 4 years ago. I am an adult now so I can do with my life what I want and you have no business to mess up with it." Edna Garret cannot believe what she hears. She had to do something to stop this new Blair take the wrong path. Glaring at the blond girl she answers calmly.

"Oh yes I can young lady. You are not an adult until you reach the age of 21 and you're barely 19 now. You will do as I say and come with me even if I have to drag you out of the bar. Is that clear?" The pampered debutante explodes: "Mrs. Garret you are not my mother! You were my guardian at Eastland, but now I don't need you, alright? I have a mind of my own and you have no right to control me or influence me. I don't mean to be rude to you, but I don't feel the same way I used to. You can see for yourself that we have grown apart." On hearings the last words Edna's heart breaks. It takes her a super natural force for her not to break into tears. Jo cannot take it any longer. No one messes up with her beloved guardian.

"Cut it out Blair. If only you could hear yourself speak. You should be ashamed at how badly you're treating this kind lady who has done nothing but love you beyond anything those last 4 years! Is this how you repay her? By insulting her?! You know, if it were me, I would have you seat in my knees by now and spank you hard! Do you realize you sound more like a 3 year old, rather than an almost 19 year old woman? Grow up Blair and then you can talk!" The Bronx girl's words cut right like daggers into the debutante's heart. She lowers her head and feels tears run down her face. The sleazy guy next to her approaches Jo slowly saying:

"Nobody messes up with my baby here, did you hear me punk? I have a knife here and I can cut you to pieces if I want to…." The tough brunette is ready to face the challenge. Edna Garret gasps in fear. Suddenly Blair stands up to stop the sleazy guy. She says with determination:

"If you touch my girlfriend or my guardian I will cut you to pieces Max! Nobody messes with my sister and my mother, did you hear me?!" The sleazy guy is lost at word. The debutante looks at Jo and Mrs. Garret with tenderness before answering: "Let's leave this horrible place. I've had enough of pretending here. You have opened my eyes Jo and I shall never forget what a true friend you are. And you, Mrs. Garret are a role model to me and I should be bending my knees to ask for forgiveness," On hearing those words the tender hearted housemother takes a weeping Blair into her arms while kissing her. Jo joins them for a group hug. They walk back to the car arm in arm. Edna Garret is so relieved to have her sensitive trouble maker back where she belonged: with her. She would always be grateful to the Bronx girl who was the most loyal human being she had ever seen.

January 1984. For her 19th birthday, Blair has organized a big birthday bash. She has invited all her college friends into the new bakery "EDNA's EDIBLES". Jo and she had been living with their beloved housemother and their 2 younger friends for 2 and half months now. The bakery had turned into a success thanks to their good team work. Tootie was the cleaner, Natalie the apprentice cook, Jo the cashier and Mrs. Garret the boss. Blair was in charge of the customer service section: she took care of their guests and made sure everyone was at ease. She smiles thinking about what a turn her life had taken and she only had Jo to thank. Her best friend had saved her from taking the wrong path last fall. The debutante's new college reputation had gone straight into her head and she had dropped her 2 best friends Mrs. Garret and Jo like a hot potato. She sights and tries to clear those bittersweet memories from her mind. She looks at her 4 friends tenderly. Tootie and Natalie are chatting away, while Jo and Mrs. Garret count the money. She walks towards them.

"What do you want me to do for you Mrs. Garret? The last customer has left and soon the party will start." The housemother looks at her smiling. "Today it's your birthday honey so get ready before your guests arrive." Blair embraces her guardian and goes upstairs to try on her new dress.

Later on that night everyone is dancing to the pop beats. All the guests have arrived but Blair is nowhere to be seen. "Leave it to the Princess to be late on her birthday." Jo growls.Suddenly she hears gasps. She looks around and what she sees takes her breath away. The blond debutante looks astonishing beautiful in her new red dress and with her hair cascading. She smiles seductively to every male who looks her way.

Her hair had grown very fast after she decided to get rid of the spiky look she had last fall, when she was hanging with the wrong crowd. Blair is now dancing and chatting to a guy Jo has never seen. For some unknown reasons Jo doesn't trust the man who dances so close to her Princess. He is very good looking but his eyes are too close together and he has a way at looking at Blair like he is undressing her. She notices Sue Ann, Nancy, Cindy and Molly having a group dance with Tootie and Natalie. Mrs. Garret is chatting away with Mr. Parker who has also been invited. Just then the music stops and Blair joins Jo hand in hand with Prince charming.

"Jo, I want to introduce you to Cliff. I met him just now and discovered he's studying to become a doctor. He is on his final College year and had great grades." The tough brunette shakes hands with him before answering: "Nice to meet you. So who did you come with if you've only known Blair for a few minutes?" The handsome blonde smiles at Jo and replies: "I came with Mr. Parker. My father is best friends with him, and when he told me there would be a party for young people I decided to join him. Of course I didn't know this gorgeous young lady would be the guest of honour." Blair beams at the compliment. Jo is scowling now. Nope. She did not trust this too perfect to be true guy. She knew her best friend was rather naïve so she decides to keep an eye on them. Just to make sure. Edna Garret approaches them.

"Who is this young man you haven't introduced Blair? I have never seen him before. Does he go to the same College as you?" The debutante smiles warmly at her guardian. "His name is Cliff and I have only met him a few minutes ago. He came with Mr. Parker." The red haired lady shakes hands with him. The next song is a slow dance so the debutante and Cliff go to the dance floor. Edna Garret watches them suspiciously. She doesn't like the way the young man is holding Blair.

The look Jo gives her is enough to confirm her suspicions. They are now kissing. The songs stops but the debutante and her young man can't let go of one another. After what seems like an eternity they split and Blair comes towards them.

"Mrs. Garret, do you mind if I go for a ride with Cliff? It is my birthday after all and he has promised me to show me the stars with his new telescope." The fiery red haired lady's heart freezes. She knew Blair was a natural flirt, like her biological mother, but she didn't realized how naïve the debutante was. If she'd let her go with that stranger she would never see her again. She could feel it in her motherly heart how dangerous this young blond man was. She had to do something to open the debutante's eyes. She takes her hands and pulls her away. "Excuse us." She says to Cliff.

When they are alone in a corner the fiery red lady speaks up: " Blair I know it is your birthday but there is no way I will let you leave town with a stranger, no matter how good looking he is. Do you remember how it was with Chad? How he almost raped you when you were barely 16 years old? You may be naïve but I am not. I am ordering right now not to leave, and if you disobey me I will have to ground you….." The pampered debutante explodes in rage: "how dare you speak to me like I was a 12 year old Mrs. Garret?! I am 19 now so when are you going to start treating me like an adult?!"

Edna responds calmly: "when you start acting like one. Jo is a few months younger than you, but she surely acts a lot more mature than you. Have you not learn everything I have taught you all these years? Oh I know you came too late into my life. I realize now, that at age 14 it is a bit late to change, and that you have Monica's flirty genes in you Blair, but please listen to me when I say this young man is no good for you. I have a bad vibe about him and so does Jo."

Blair is too stubborn to reply so she just turns her back on her guardian. Edna touches the young girl's shoulder tentatively. The tender hearted girl is in tears now. She knows her guardian is right but doesn't know how to give in. It is the kind housemother who makes her 1st move. She takes a sobbing Blair into her arms while stroking her hair.

Jo has been watching the scene with tenderness. She was no fool. No matter how often her guardian had said she loved her girls equally, she knew Blair was and would always be the number one. You can't chose who you love and it was obvious the debutante felt the same way about Mrs. G. She may act like a spoil brat most of the time but in the end she always obeyed the wise housemother. They walk arm in arm to join the rest of the guests. The tough brunette sees Blair speak to a disappointed Cliff. Shortly afterwards the young man leaves the party. It figures. He was just after the Princess body. Good riddance to him thinks the Bronx girl. The party lasts a few more hours. Jo yawns. She is beginning to get really tired. She is definitely not a party animal. She only hoped 1984 would be a good year.

Spring 1984. Finally it was beginning to warm up and the flowers were blooming. Jo, Blair, Tootie and Natalie were sitting in the garden taken some fresh air. Edna Garret was watching them through the window kitchen and smiling proudly. She couldn't believe what a blessed woman she was with such exemplary girls. More like young ladies. Natalie had turned 17 and Tootie would be 16 next month. She thought with regret at how fast her little girls where growing. All of them were dating now: even little Tootie. Suddenly the phone rings:

"This is Edna's Edibles. Oh hello Jeff. Do you want to speak to Blair?" The housemother yells to her: "Blair, Jeff is on the line for you." The blond girl picks up the phones while smiling seductively. "Hello darling." Edna Garret sees the debutante's face go all white. "I understand. Goodbye."

"What is it Blair?" The debutante smiles with sadness. "Jeff has just broken up with me. It is no big deal." It was for the sensitive debutante Edna knew. She wants to take her into her arms but Blair brushes her off and runs upstairs into her room. Just then Jo, Natalie and Tootie come inside.

"Hey Mrs. G. Where's the Princess?" The red haired lady answers worriedly: "upstairs into her room. Jeff just broke up with. I think she needs some time alone." Jo nods knowing too well how her best friend reacted towards rejection. It would probably take her a while to get over getting dumped.

In the following days Blair changes radically. Edna Garret is very saddened to see her little girl go back to her wild days. She comes home late every night and she hardly helps in the store anymore. The other girls have also become reckless. They all have their own routine and keep forgetting their shifts. The only one who is brave, is her little Tootie, who for some reason is also feeling left out.

"Mrs. Garret Nat has forgotten to take me to the cinema today. It's bad enough when your boyfriend dumps you, but when your girlfriend does it, you know you hit bottom." The red haired lady sights: "Well, how would they like it if I decided I didn't want to cook anymore? I don't even know why I bothered making this lovely Chinese buffet!" They hear the door opens and a loud Jo burst in:

"Hey Mrs. G. Don't yell at me but I was looking at some leaflets for the next year." Edna is about to answer when she sees Natalie come in next. "You will never believe it Mrs. Garret but the headmaster is after my permanent record. Do you know what it's like to have a permanent bad record on your junior year?" Tootie whines at her best friend. "Nat you forgot that we were supposed to go to the cinema." The chubby girl looks at her friend and answers: "did I just dump you? Boy you must feel really bad!" This is like a mad house. Edna thinks. Next she sees the debutante walk in:

"Well hello everyone! Did you miss me?" The fiery red haired lady marches right in front of Blair: "And where have you been young lady?" The pampered heiress just giggles: "Out on a date of course! Meet my new Beau Steven!" Natalie and Tootie shake their head before commenting:

"Ever since she broke up with Jeff she has been dating any top guy in town!" Blair says next: "Say hello date!" The geek looking guy smiles shyly. "Hi. Oh Blair. I had a wonderful time, so maybe we could meet up again?" The debutante brushes him off. "I'm sure you had and maybe next time if you're lucky we will." She then closes the door in his face. The fiery red haired lady does not like what she sees. She decides it's about time to take a firm hand on the troubled debutante.

"Blair I want you to go to your room immediately. You're grounded. There will be no more dating and phone calls for a month. You will be treated like a little girl until you learn how to behave like an adult. Now I want you to march upstairs and I mean it!" yells the fiery lady. On hearing the commotion Jo comes running downstairs, only to find a very angry housemother arguing with the debutante.

"I will not go to my room. Like I said before you are not my mother and this is not the 15th century. I am a free citizen and I will do as pleased!" An even angered Blair leaves the house slamming the door. Edna Garret is near tears. She was losing her beloved little girl and she didn't know what to do. She knew what a difficult child Blair has always been, due to her neglected upbringing. She thought that by moulding her at the tender age of 14, she would have learned the values of life and what really mattered. She looks at her other 3 girls who were a lot easier than the heiress and sights. Why did she have to love her so much and what else more could she do. She had to think hard about what next step to take.

Early the next morning when Edna descends the stairs she sees Jo, Natalie and Tootie having breakfast at the table. No sign of Blair. She sits down with them. She tries to drink her coffee but is too sad. "Don't worry About Blair Mrs. G. Eat." Jo says pleasantly. "I'm sorry Jo but when one of my girls is missing that's when I do worry. What if she had an accident?" The housemother trembles thinking about it. "Believe me Mrs. G, but what Blair had last night was no accident!" Tootie and Natalie burst out laughing now. "Girls please!" yells a very worried Edna. Just then, they hear the front door open and a very reckless Blair walks inside: "hi!"

The fiery red haired lady cannot take it any longer: "Where have you been Blair and why did you not come home last night? I want an explanation right now. Have you been skipping classes again? And don't bother lying to me because your headmaster just called to tell me how badly you were doing on your tests. Like it or not you will be grounded for 2 months now, so I want you to march upstairs to your room and stay there until I order you to come out. Is that understood?"

The pampered debutante wants to answer but when she sees the angry look of warning her housemother directs at her she walks slowly upstairs to her room.Jo, Natalie and Tootie are marvelled at the great influence their fiery guardian still has over the debutante.

"Mrs. Garret you are amazing. Do you know that you are the only person in the world who has power over Blair?" A very astonished Natalie answers. "Nat is right Mrs. G. Blair may not always show you gratitude but she looks up to you like nobody else does. All you have to do is raise your finger, and she then runs back to you." The Bronx girl answers also amazed. Edna Garret smiles pleased. It was true. Out of all her girls she knew that Blair was the one who needed a firmer hand to keep her right. She might be upset and angry now, but soon she would come to realize that the fiery red haired lady had her best interest at heart.

Meanwhile in her room Blair was so enraged she thought she was going to explode. She was actually amazed of the power the fiery red haired lady had over her. A power she's had from the very 1st day they lay eyes on each other. The tender hearted girl cries softly. She knows she has acted like a spoil brat and that she has been punished because she deserves it. She feels so embarrassed she wants to hide in her bed. She wants to go back downstairs to apologize to her beloved housemother but she is too afraid. She walks slowly to open the door. The whole house is quiet. She wonders if everyone has gone out. She descends slowly the stairs. All the lights have been turned off. She sits in one of the sofas. She gasps when she hears a voice she knows so well:

"Who gave you permission to come downstairs young lady?" An astonished Blair looks directly into her guardian's eyes.

"I am sorry for behaving like a rotten brat Mrs. Garret. Please forgive me. I know I have a tendency to be nasty and luckily you are here to keep me right. I want you to know how much I admire you even though it may seem like i take you for granted at times." A very emotional Blair says. Edna Garret sits beside her, and the blond girl rests her head in her guardian's chest.

"I forgive you my darling but you are still grounded for 2 months". She hears Blair breath slowly and realizes the debutante has fallen asleep. She caresses her cheek and smiles. She had her girl back. Things would be alright for as long as they had each other. Edna stands up and walks towards the window to look at the stars. The sky is full of them tonight and she feels very happy. A dark shadow passes over her mind when she thinks about the day her girls would leave the house and build a family of their own. Always is not forever.

eyHey HH