A/N: First off, two responses to Guest reviews of the previous chapter. To the first, yes I plan to continue the story past this chapter, so no worries there.

To the second, yes, I fully admit I've blown the pacing of this story. This chapter is a little shorter than the last one, but I suspect they will all be around this length going forward. Sorry about that. I'll see what I can do.

A quick reminder. In my headcanon, the gang are the Class of 2004, so this chapter starts in the summer of 2003.


The early August day was as hot and humid as those days tended to be, but the prospective students of Ashland University and their parents didn't notice as they explored the campus. Keesha and Phoebe were among the students in the front, attentively listening to their escort. Keesha's mother and Phoebe's father hung towards the back, the former quietly describing the campus to the latter when needed.

After the tour, the group broke for lunch. The Franklins and Tereses found a table in an isolated corner of the cafeteria to talk.

"So, what did you girls think?" Mr. Terese asked.

"I love it," both said simultaneously. The girls looked at each other in surprise.

Mrs. Franklin laughed. "I take it that wasn't an intentional mind meld." Her expression turned serious. "It is a good school. Are you both sure you could see yourselves going here?"

"Yes," again simultaneously, resulting in more funny looks around the table.

"I don't know quite how to put it, but I just have a really good feeling about this place," Keesha stated.

"Yeah, it feels right somehow," Phoebe added.

"Well, before we go we better make sure we know how to apply and the timetable," Mr. Terese proposed.

After lunch, the walk through campus was much less structured, and the girls joined some of the other students for some independent exploration. Once they left, Mr. Terese turned to Mrs. Franklin. "They said this place is twenty thousand a year, right?"

"Unfortunately."

Mr. Terese sighed. "Let's go find the financial aid office."


It was a perfect fall Saturday in September. Dorothy Ann, Keesha, and Wanda had spent it hanging out, intentionally doing as little as possible. For Keesha, having free time on fall weekends was a new experience. Switching out field hockey for editing the school paper still made her weeks as busy as before. On the weekends though, her task load was much lighter since the paper obviously didn't publish then. She was determined to take as much advantage as possible.

However, one of the Frizzle females was missing, and thus the other three were off to see her. Keesha parked her Civic in front of the local convenience store. The girls entered to find Phoebe working the front register.

"Hey guys!" Phoebe greeted cheerfully.

Before anyone could give Phoebe a proper greeting, Wanda blurted out "Holy shit, you guys weren't lying."

"Why would we lie, Wanda?" an annoyed DA asked.

"Because it's our hippie Pheebs, working for The Man," Wanda countered. "It's unnatural."

"Thanks Wanda. I think," said Phoebe. "But if I'm going to be able to go to Homecoming and Prom this year, I need this job." She was telling the truth. Her father hated to say it, but he made it clear at the beginning of the year that to attend both dances, and to have any chance of buying new dresses for them, Phoebe would need to get a job. An actual paying job, not just volunteer work.

"Damn, that sucks," Wanda replied in an attempt at sympathy.

Phoebe let out a small smile. "It's OK. It's kind of nice to earn my own money. Maybe you all should try it." Her smile turned into the closest thing to a smirk she could muster. The other girls quickly demurred.

"I'm too busy studying. I have to keep up if I'm to be valedictorian," DA explained.

"The paper is taking up a lot of my time," Keesha added.

"Blech! You sound like my mother," Wanda complained. She looked around to make sure no one of authority was listening. "Hey Pheebs, can I get a pack of smokes?"

Phoebe folded her arms. "Wanda, I know you're not 18 yet."

"C'mon. What good is having you work here if you can't hook me up with smokes or beer?"

"Anyway," Keesha interrupted. "When do you get off work Pheebs? Want to hang out then?"

Phoebe checked the clock (it was around four) and shook her head. "Not until ten. I'll probably be too tired by then. Sorry."

Wanda frowned. "This is why jobs suck and I'm staying away from that shit as long as possible."

"Well, that's your right Wanda," Phoebe said patiently. Just then, a customer approached. "Sorry guys, I gotta go. See you."

"Later Pheebs. Give me a call tomorrow if you're up to it," Keesha waived as the girls headed out the door. As they headed back into Keesha's car, she let out a sigh.

"What's the matter? Miss your girlfriend?" Wanda teased.

"Shut up, Wanda," Keesha growled.

"Seriously. You could stand to learn some maturity and responsibility yourself," DA snarked.

"Whatever," scoffed Wanda. The joke would be on her though a week later, when her mother gave her a similar monetary ultimatum. As a result, Wanda would spend the fall and winter months until softball season working at McDonalds. The gang was not shy in teasing her about this development.


Keesha stood on the edge of the track and the grass motionless. Only her eyes moved, darting back and forth towards the object of her desire. Around her was the cacophony of the game on the field and the cheering of the crowd around it, but to Keesha it barely registered. She remained lost to the world until Phoebe tapped her on the shoulder.

"Wha? Oh hi, Pheebs."

Phoebe giggled. "Find something you like." She craned her head towards the Walkerville High bench.

Keesha sighed. "Yeah."

"Oooh," Phoebe squealed. "Who?" At the moment, the defense was trotting onto the field. Phoebe looked at Keesha, and quickly realized that her eyes were locked on number 56.

"Ralphie? Are you sure?"

"I know. We tried once, but I have this feeling of incompleteness, like we missed something," Keesha explained. "But he's moved on."

"How do you know?"

"Because he's dated a lot of girls since we broke up. He's the star athlete and he's taken advantage of it. He barely notices me now."

Phoebe gave a look of concern and grabbed her best friend's arm. "C'mon, let's go talk in private." She led Keesha to the outskirts of the track near the bleachers. "Ralphie's one of our best friends. Even as he got more popular, has he ever forgotten about us?"

"No," Keesha was forced to admit.

"Well, I don't know what he thinks of you romantically anymore, but he still likes you even after breaking up, and that's something."

Keesha didn't say anything, so Phoebe tried another tactic. "Have you thought about asking him out first?"

The dark haired girl looked at Phoebe like she had a second head, which only served to frustrate Phoebe. "C'mon Keesh! It's the twenty first century. The guy doesn't always have to do the asking. That's outdated thinking."

"If that's the case, how come you've never asked a guy out?" Keesha retorted.

"Umm…uh…" Phoebe trailed off as her face burned a dark crimson. "I don't like anyone enough to ask," she finally sputtered out. "Really though, what do you have to lose? Homecoming's coming up. You should him ask to that."

Keesha shook her head. "He has a date for Homecoming, remember? That bimbo Jessica."

"Oh yeah. I'm sorry."

"It's ok. You're just trying to help." Keesha walked away with her head down, no longer interested in the game.

Two weeks later at Homecoming, Keesha was back to staring sadly at Ralphie, this time as he grinded with Jessica on the dance floor. He had once again played well in a Walkerville High victory, and had college scouts all over him salivating about his baseball talents. He was on top of the world, and while Keesha thought she had things mostly figured out, she knew she couldn't compete with all the other stuff going on in his life.

Once again, her reverie was interrupted by a tap on the shoulder from Phoebe. The auburn haired girl didn't wait for a greeting this time. "You OK?"

Keesha tried to put on a brave face. "Yeah. I'll manage. Where's your date?"

"Getting some punch. Where's yours?" Phoebe's (completely platonic) date was Tim. Arnold and Wanda also went together, as did Carlos and DA, who became a couple again over the summer. For her part, Keesha went with Jeremy, who turned out to be a nice guy once he got over losing the editorship.

"I think he's talking to some of his friends. Whatever. It was obvious nothing was happening there."

Phoebe gave her a sympathetic look before discreetly pointing at Ralphie. "Don't give up. According to Wanda, he's not that serious with Jessica. I still think you should try asking him out. I bet he'd say yes."

Keesha turned away. "We'll see, Pheebs."

Just then, the proceedings were interrupted by a crash, followed by DA stomping away, yelling "Screw you, Carlos! We're through!" Carlos followed, trying to plead his case. "C'mon DA! I didn't mean to fall into Florrie's arms!"

Keesha and Phoebe looked at each other. "Somehow I saw that coming," the former deadpanned.


Keesha sat down with a moan of relief. Her 18th birthday party was a blast, but exhausting. At the clock neared midnight, her partying tank had hit empty. She had just closed her eyes when she heard a cough. Annoyed (she had told Phoebe to keep people away), she opened her eyes in the tiniest slits possible.

It turned out the interrupter was Ralphie, which was enough to get Keesha fully awake again. "Uh, hey Keesh. Everything alright?"

"Oh, um, yeah. Just resting a bit. Long day."

"Makes sense. Great party."

"Thanks."

Thinking that was the end of the conversation, Keesha closed her eyes. Ralphie had other ideas though.

"So Keesh, I, uh, was thinking…"

"Yes…" Keesha's voice projected irritation. Her eyes stayed closed.

Ralphie took a deep breath and grew enough nerve to say what was on his mind. "Ever since we broke up I've wondered, in the back of my mind, if it was the right thing to do. We're seniors now, so it's now or never."

"What are you getting at?" Keesha's eyes were wide open now.

"Um, uh…" Ralphie stammered as his confidence faded. "I want to try dating again," he finally spat out.

Keesha stood there in shock, not quite believing what she just heard. However, she didn't realize how long she sat speechless until Ralphie gave her an impatient look.

Finally, she answered. "I'd like that."

Ralphie beamed perhaps the biggest smile of his life. The two figured out a time for a date before Ralphie parted for the night. He kissed her on the cheek. "Happy Birthday, Keesh."

Keesha beamed right back. "Thanks." When he left, she collapsed back on her chair, this time in bliss.


One Saturday in early December, Phoebe was lounging in her bedroom reading The House on Mango Street when she heard a car horn outside her window. She looked to find Keesha outside in her Honda. Confused by Keesha's brusqueness, Phoebe headed outside to figure out what her best friend wanted. As Phoebe walked her front sidewalk, Keesha motioned for her to get in the car.

"Hi Keesh. What's going on?" a still lost Phoebe asked. Keesha immediately handed her a booklet. "What's this?"

"It's the learners' permit manual. Get studying," Keesha commanded.

"Um, what?" Phoebe's confusion continued unabated.

"Pheebs, now that I'm 18, I can be the person who rides along while someone learns to drive. So, we're going to get you that license, and I'm going to be your teacher. My grandma says she'll help too."

"Really?! That's great! Thank you." The circumstances (no car and no adult around to teach her) that kept Phoebe from getting her license two years ago with everyone else still held. Thus, she was the only one in the gang who didn't have it. They was mostly understanding of that, but Phoebe still wondered when and how she was ever going to learn. She had to at some point.

"No problem Pheebs. Schedule your permit test as soon as possible. It's easy, so don't worry about it. Schedule it as soon as we're done."

Phoebe scrunched her face. "What do you mean, 'as soon as we're done'?"

"We're finding an empty parking lot, and you're taking the wheel for a while."

Phoebe's eyes widened in panic. "What? Keesha, no!"

Keesha just ignored her pleas and hit the road.


Walking out of the Walkerville Post, Keesha felt on top of the world. She had spent the day there as part of a shadowing program for seniors, and had loved almost every minute of it. She learned how journalists get their information for their stories, how they write them, and how the paper gets made in time to be delivered in the morning. There were some tedious parts, as in any job, but overall it had been a great experience for Keesha that further resolved her goal to become a journalist.

Keesha excitedly drove to the veterinarian's office to pick up Phoebe from her shadowing day. She couldn't wait to tell her best friend how awesome her day had been. However, when she arrived at the vet, Phoebe was standing outside looking very glum. Phoebe entered the car without a word.

Keesha read the situation correctly and figured Phoebe wouldn't want to hear about her great day just then. "You OK?"

Phoebe shook her head. "The vet had to put down two dogs and a cat today. One of the dogs had been hit by a car. His owner was a little girl, and it broke my heart to watch her cry." Phoebe started to cry herself. "I know it ends their suffering, but I can't do it. I can't look in their eyes and watch them die. I just can't."

Keesha pulled over so she could hug Phoebe. "I'm sorry."

Phoebe continued crying for a few more minutes before pulling herself together. "Thanks, and thanks for letting me do that. I was holding it in all day."

"No problem, Pheebs." Keesha restarted the car. "You need anything?"

"Um, can I hang at your house for a while? I need some time with Jake."

"Of course."

Phoebe flashed her first smile of the afternoon before changing to a more embarrassed expression. "Oh no! I never asked about your day! I'm sorry."

Keesha couldn't help but laugh. "It's alright Pheebs, and I had a wonderful day…" Keesha regaled Phoebe with her experience as they drove to her house.


The Twins gathered at Keesha's house on a gray February afternoon. Their college applications had long since been sent out, and the responses were in. Both girls had made their decisions, and it was time to tell each other what they had chosen.

Before Phoebe arrived, Keesha looked over her acceptance letters one more time. She had applied and been accepted to Akron, Ashland, Wooster, and Ohio State (where she applied at the insistence of her mother). She grabbed the letter of the school she chose and hid the rest. Shortly after, Phoebe arrived, the letter she chose hidden in a plain manila folder. Phoebe had been accepted to Ashland, Wooster, and Kent State. Her anxiety was evident on her face. Keesha figured why, as Phoebe had made no secret she wanted them to go to the same school. Keesha was worried that if their choices didn't match, Phoebe would switch. That was not a conversation Keesha wanted to have. As much as she cared about her best friend, she had to do what's best for herself.

"Ready?" Keesha asked. Phoebe nodded. The two simultaneously showed which letter they chose. Both picked Ashland University.

Phoebe threw up her arms and squealed in delight. She jumped up and hugged Keesha before the dark haired girl could even blink. "Oh! I'm so happy! I was so scared about leaving home without you by my side."

Keesha completed the hug, but didn't say anything. As best she could, she made her decision without taking Phoebe into account. She liked the Ashland campus, it was reasonably close to home, but not too close, and it had a journalism program. There were plenty of reasons for Keesha to choose Ashland that had nothing to do with her best friend. However, while Keesha crowed about her independence, in reality she wasn't ready to not have Phoebe by her side either. Keesha smiled in a mixture of joy and relief.


It was a beautiful late March afternoon, perfect for a celebration of love, and how Keesha wished she was anywhere else. Her father was getting married to his much younger paralegal. As Monique walked down the aisle, Keesha tried her best from her seat in the pews to keep her expression neutral. The couple was already irritated with her after she declined Monique's offer to be a bridesmaid.

Next to Keesha, Phoebe was wiping her eyes. Not knowing Mr. Franklin or his bride-to-be very well, she reverted to general happiness for the couple. She was at the wedding as Keesha's guest, the latter knowing she would need moral support.

Afterward, the two were sitting at the main table waiting for Keesha's dad and his wife. "What a lovely wedding," Phoebe remarked with a big smile.

Keesha frowned. "I should've known your sentimentality would win out. I should've brought Ralphie."

Now it was Phoebe's turn to frown. "Why does it bother you so much? They seem happy. Isn't that the important thing?"

Keesha opened her mouth in an exaggerated manner as if she were about to rant. After a beat though, she realized she didn't have one. Defeated, she sighed. "I don't know. I didn't like how much younger Monique was. I never really thought it would last this long, so I never gave her a chance."

Phoebe touched her best friend's arm. "It's not too late. If your father loves her, there has to be something good about her."

"I…I don't know."

"Think about it."

Keesha sighed again. "I'll try."

"At least smile when they're introduced."

"I was hoping you didn't notice that earlier."

Later during the reception, Keesha's father asked to dance with her, and for Keesha it was now or never in terms of making peace.

"Dad, I'm sorry for being difficult about this. It's nice to see you this happy. Congratulations."

Mr. Franklin smiled. "Thank you. Apology accepted."

The two wordlessly continued to dance. When the song ended, Keesha tried to break apart, but Mr. Franklin stopped her, grabbing her hand. "Would you like to talk to Monique. I know she'd love to start getting to know you."

Keesha nodded. "I'd like that." She was somewhat sure she believed that.


Phoebe's annoyed expression at the lunch table confused the gang. Sure, that kind of look was normal on Wanda or perhaps Tim or even Keesha, but Phoebe? Something was up. That said, no one would dare ask. Phoebe mad was a rare enough occurrence that the gang didn't want to risk poking the potential hornets' nest.

Luckily, or perhaps unluckily for them, Phoebe verbalized her complaint. "Burgers again? Why can't this cafeteria provide real vegetarian options?"

"Because nobody wants to eat vegetarian. It sucks," Wanda blurted out, earning her a cross look from Phoebe.

"Well, some of us don't eat meat, and it would be nice to have that choice treated with respect," Phoebe retorted.

"Relax Pheebs. No one's disrespecting your choices," said Ralphie carefully. "We just…don't agree."

"You know, I can make a veggie burger that's just as good as a regular hamburger," Phoebe proclaimed. Six of her friends guffawed at that suggestion. Phoebe folded her arms and scowled.

"C'mon Pheebs. Be serious," Ralphie stated as he tried to get his breath back.

"I am," said an icy Phoebe.

"Then prove it!" interjected Carlos. "Who here cooks the best real burgers?" Tim quickly raised his hand. "OK then, Tim vs. Phoebe in a burger-off."

Tim smirked. 'No problem. This will be easy."

"Her veggie burgers are pretty good actually. I've had them," Keesha inputted. She was the only who didn't initially laugh at Phoebe.

Wanda scoffed. "Keesh, I know you're compelled to defend Beanpole at all times, but don't be ridiculous."

"She doesn't need to defend me, Wanda," Phoebe said forcefully. "Tim, I accept the challenge." The two shook hands.

"Is this really necessary?" pleaded the ever conflict averse Arnold.

"Yes," everyone else answered.

That Sunday, the gang gathered at Tim's house for the contest. Judging the contest would be Ralphie, Carlos, Dorothy Ann, and Wanda. Arnold, while he showed up, wanted no part of it, and Keesha was (correctly) deemed too biased.

Phoebe went first. She described the burger as she carefully plated them and passed them out, giving each judge her sweetest smile. "This burger was made with lentils, caramelized onions, mushrooms, and breadcrumbs for a base, served with a wheat bun. Enjoy."

The four dug in. "Say, this is pretty good," Ralphie said in amazement

"Yeah, it is. Nice job Pheebolino," added Carlos.

"I have to agree. This is fantastic," concurred DA.

All three turned to Wanda. "Holy shit, this doesn't suck."

Phoebe smiled. "I'll take it, Wanda. Thanks."

Tim advanced with his burgers, each haphazardly placed on a paper plate. "Here's mine. It's a hamburger made out of meat on a bun, with nothing. Add ketchup if you want. I couldn't care less."

The four judges each took a bite, and the response was immediate.

"This is better," Ralphie declared.

"Way better," agreed Carlos.

"Yep, definitely," concluded DA.

"Not even close," said Wanda to complete the verdict.

"Really, come on guys!" yelled Keesha. She snatched Ralphie's burger from him and took a bite. "Sorry Pheebs, this is way better."

"Yep, sorry Pheebs. That's what happens when you don't use meat," crowed Tim.

"I…I don't understand," stuttered Phoebe. "I've been working on this recipe for years." She made a face. "Although it has been a long time since I had a burger with meat."

Tim wordlessly handed her the last burger. Phoebe grabbed it, held it for a moment, and took a bite. "This is better," she stated. "Now, excuse me, I'm going to go throw up."

The rest of the gang just shrugged and went back to eating.


Phoebe stared at the large envelope addressed to her. The envelope contained her financial aid package for her freshman year in college. The contents of the envelope would not only determine how much aid she would receive, it would determine if she could go to college at all. Her family was not in a position to pay anything out of pocket. Phoebe's father always told her that he'd find a way to get her through college, but she knew better. Her future was dependent on how much money some nameless, faceless bureaucrats decided she could have.

Phoebe looked at the time. Her father wouldn't be home for a few more hours, but she couldn't wait any longer to open the envelope. At the same time, she didn't want to do it alone. Thus, she called Keesha.

Keesha arrived to a very nervous Phoebe. She rubbed the auburn haired girl's arm to try and calm her down. It didn't work. Phoebe just stared at the envelope, unable to get herself to open it. Finally, she gave it to Keesha, her pleading eyes making it clear what she wanted.

Keesha took it, but before opening it, tried to soothe Phoebe's nerves. "You know Pheebs, it's OK if this doesn't work out. We'll figure out how to get you to Ashland."

Phoebe was not convinced. "We'll see."

Keesha tried a different tactic. "Well, maybe you don't want that many loans. You'll be stuck paying them off for years."

Phoebe's eyes suddenly got a lot steelier. "That's fine."

"Um, OK."

"Keesh, listen. Daddy and I have never had a lot. Ever since it's been just the two of us, he's worked his butt off and sacrificed so much for me. He'd put off things, important things, because I needed something. If the college didn't give him enough classes in a semester, he dealt with the humiliation of applying for food stamps because he wouldn't let me go hungry. He never complained all those years when I volunteered for free when I should've been earning money for the family. For the last 18 years, he's taken care of me. Now it's my turn, and I'll do whatever it takes so that burden isn't his anymore."

Keesha stood there stunned after her best friend's monologue. She looked around the tiny house. She noticed the very worn living room furniture, the same furniture that was in the house when the two of them met ten years ago. She noticed the old appliances in the kitchen, many of which look like they had been repaired at least once. She thought back to all the things her and the rest of her friends had that Phoebe didn't, or activities they took part in that Phoebe didn't because her family couldn't afford it. Most of all, she thought about how Phoebe never complained about her situation. Not once, which suddenly seemed remarkable. Keesha took a deep breath.

"OK Pheebs, I understand. Now let's do this." She finally opened the envelope and silently read its contents. When she finished, Keesha broke out into a big smile. She handed the letter to Phoebe. "Read it."

Phoebe took the letter and soon had a wide smile of her own. "It's all paid for, and mostly grants! The loans aren't that bad!" Happy tears flowed from both girls as they embraced.

"I've got to get dinner ready and wait for Daddy to get home," Phoebe said after they broke the hug. "I can't wait to show him!"

"I bet. See you tomorrow," Keesha replied. The two hugged once more before Keesha left. As she did, all she could think about was They have more than earned this.

However, Keesha also couldn't get the images of Phoebe's house out of her mind. Thus, she made it clear to the rest of the gang that "We need to do something special for Phoebe's birthday this year."


PING! On that sound, the crowd collectively turned its head towards the outfield fences. They rose as one and cheered as the ball cleared the fence. Trotting the bases after yet another home run was Ralphie. Walkerville High's star baseball player from his first game as a freshman, he was now considered easily the best player in the area as a senior, if not the whole state.

Slowly the crowd sat back down, including Keesha. Since becoming Ralphie's girlfriend again, she was a regular fixture at his games whenever she didn't have commitments to the paper. At first, this wasn't a problem for her. She even enjoyed it despite never liking baseball. Lately though, something felt off, and going to the games started feeling like a chore. As such, Keesha was spending the games thinking long and hard about her and Ralphie's relationship.

That thinking got even more complicated earlier that week during lunch. Seemingly on impulse, Ralphie stood up in front of the whole cafeteria with an important announcement.

"Fellow Walkerville Wildcats! I am happy to announce that I have accepted a baseball scholarship to The Ohio State University!" The cafeteria erupted in cheers. When they subsided, Ralphie led the room in the ubiquitous O-H! I-O! chant, which just resulted in more cheering.

Back at the gang's regular lunch table, Dorothy Ann folded her arms in annoyance. "No one cared when I got a full academic scholarship to Ohio State."

"That's because no one cares about nerds. Duh," replied Wanda matter-of-factly.

As the rest of the gang congratulated Ralphie or continued bickering, Keesha sat there lost in thought. The announcement confirmed what Keesha already knew, that her and Ralphie would be going to different colleges. Yes, Ashland and Ohio State were only eighty miles or so away, but given how different their lives were going to be, those eighty miles were a chasm. Keesha liked Ralphie. She liked him a lot, but deep down she knew she didn't feel for him strong enough to consider trying a long distance relationship. She suspected he felt the same. Thus, she knew what she had to do.

After the game, Keesha hung around and waited for Ralphie. When the tall, brown haired boy saw her, he beamed as he greeted her with a kiss. "Great game, right Keesh?"

Keesha smiled back, but with a lot more restraint. "Yep, great job as always."

"Thanks. It's amazing! A scholarship to Ohio State! I've always wanted to be a Buckeye."

"I know. That's great. But, uh, we need to talk."

Ralphie's hundred watt smile petered out upon hearing that. He sat down on the bleachers. "Is this what I think it's about?"

"Ralphie, I like you a lot. You know that," Keesha started with a bit of panic in her voice.

"But we're going to different schools, and you don't think a long distance relationship would work," Ralphie finished.

"How did you know?"

"Because I'm not dumb. You don't think I haven't thought about the same thing?"

Keesha grimaced. "You're right. I'm sorry. What do you think?"

Ralphie rubbed the back of his neck, his habit when he got nervous. "I like you a lot too Keesh. You're by far the best girlfriend I've ever had."

Keesha smiled. "Thanks. I feel the same way about you."

More neck rubbing. "But…"

"But…"

"Long distance is really hard, especially given all the other changes in our lives. If I, uh, really really cared about you, maybe I'd say try it, but I'm not sure I do."

"Love, Ralphie, the word you were looking for is love, and if you can't say it, then that's probably not how you feel."

Ralphie looked down at his feet. "Are you mad at me?"

"What? Of course not. I'm not sure that's how I feel about you either."

The two sat in silence, the only sound coming from cars going by.

"So, are we done?" Ralphie asked with a mixture of fear and purpose, but mostly fear.

"Probably," replied Keesha with just as much fear. "I mean, if we aren't going to continue this at college, we might as well rip off the band-aid now. There is one more thing though." She fidgeted with the hem of her shirt. "Will you still go to Prom with me?"

For the first time in the conversation, Ralphie smiled. "There's no one else I'd rather go with."

The two locked arms and Keesha rested her head on Ralphie's shoulder. They stayed that way for a while until Ralphie said, "Besides, everyone knows Phoebe is your true love anyway." Keesha playfully smacked his arm for that.


As their daughters became closer and closer, Keesha's mother (and grandmother) and Phoebe's father found themselves getting to know each other as well. While nowhere close to best friends, the Franklin and Terese adults were friendly with each other. This would prove necessary, as what they were about to request required a united front.

The two families were having dinner together (something they occasionally did), when Keesha's mother spoke up.

"Girls, just to make it clear, we're all happy for you going to Ashland together."

Phoebe smiled in thanks, but Keesha pursed her lips. She knew something was up.

Mrs. Franklin continued, "However, we do think it would be a good idea if you don't live together, at least not as freshmen."

"What? Why?!" yelled Keesha.

"Um, do you agree, Daddy?" Phoebe asked softly.

Mr. Terese took that as his invitation to speak. "Yes pumpkin, I do. College is about trying new things, finding yourself, and meeting new people. We think that would be easier for you both if you didn't room together."

Keesha's eyes glowered in fury. "Are you trying to say Phoebe and I shouldn't see each other at college?"

Her grandmother jumped in. "No sweetie, of course not," she said in a calm voice. "We know how important your friendship is to each other, and we never want to see that suffer."

"Keesha, I thank God every day that you're in my daughter's life," Mr. Terese added.

"But," the younger Mrs. Franklin finished. "We all feel it would best if you two branched out and met other people while at school. We fear if you live together you'll just stay in a self-created bubble and not make new friends or explore things individually. All we're asking is one year living apart. After that, if you both want to live together, we won't stop you."

Silence hung in the air as the girls thought about it. Finally, Keesha asked if they could be excused. Her mother agreed and the girls headed to Keesha's bedroom.

Keesha wasted no time. "What do you think?"

Phoebe hesitated. "I don't know."

"C'mon Pheebs, I know we haven't talked about this yet, but do you want to room together next year?"

"Of course I do! But, maybe our parents are right."

Keesha internally groaned, not surprised. Unlike the rest of the gang, Phoebe never really developed the typical teenage urge to rebel. "And maybe they're wrong and we'll be just fine," Keesha said out loud.

For a few moments, Phoebe didn't say anything, lost in thought. Keesha stood there trying to stay patient.

"I agree with them," Phoebe finally said in the most confident voice she could muster.

Keesha frowned "Why?" she grumbled.

"Well, as I thought about it, I realized that a different roommate gives me an in to making new friends at college. You, you're not going to have any problem doing that." Phoebe turned away, as if ashamed. "For me though, it's really hard. I don't know what I would've done if you all hadn't fallen into my lap that year with Ms. Frizzle. I've talked with DA and Tim, and both their older sisters made lifelong friends in college. I want that."

Phoebe turned back towards Keesha and grabbed her hands. "You're my best friend, and I hope we're best friends forever, but this is my chance to make new friends and find myself. It scares me to death, but I have to try. I hope you understand."

Keesha gave Phoebe an understanding smile. "Of course I do. If that's what you want."

"So you're willing to do what our parents say?"

"Yes, but not for them. I'll do it for you."

Phoebe threw her arms around Keesha. "Thank you. Sophomore year, we can room together. I promise."

"I'm going to hold you to that."


Even though any 18th birthday was going to be a big deal, so far Phoebe's was like most of her previous ones. Carlos was making stupid jokes. Wanda was complaining about her birthday being last among the group. Tim was quietly doodling something that he would later give to Phoebe. Everyone had donated to the animal shelter in her name. Keesha was keeping everyone in line, and they ate the chocolate cake Phoebe baked. It was all Phoebe wanted, no extra fuss. Everything in her and her friends' lives was about to change, and she wanted to keep things the same as long as possible.

For most of the party, that was exactly what happened, and Phoebe was perfectly content. The cake had just been devoured, and Phoebe was ready to see everyone off when she was stopped by Carlos.

"Sit back down Pheebolino. We have one more thing for you."

Phoebe arched her eyebrow. "You do? But you guys already showed me what you donated to the animal shelter. What else could there be?" Just then, Arnold and Ralphie reentered the room carrying two fairly large boxes. Phoebe eyed them with suspicion. "What's that?"

"Open it and find out," replied a smirking Wanda.

Phoebe continued to look confused, gazing at each of her friends to try and gain any clues. Alas, all seven remained neutral, giving away nothing. Finally, she opened the two presents to reveal a new desktop computer and printer.

The auburn haired girl gasped. "Guys, you…you shouldn't have."

"Well, we wanted do and we did," Carlos declared.

"Yeah Pheebs," Arnold continued. "You're going to need your own computer and printer, and we all decided to pitch in and get you one."

Phoebe blushed. "Um, thanks guys, but you didn't have to. Daddy and I have been saving some money for college expenses. I could've gotten some used equipment, and if not, I could've made do somehow."

Keesha put an arm around her best friend. "Pheebs, we've watched you make do for the last ten years. For once, we figured you shouldn't have to make do. Take the money you've saved and spend it on other stuff you need."

Upon hearing that, Phoebe swallowed hard before the tears began to flow. "Thank you guys so much! You're the best friends I could ever have!" She went around the room hugging each of them.

The heartwarming moment didn't last long though. Once the hugging was finished, Wanda turned to DA, "That'll be five dollars, please." DA sighed and slapped the money into Wanda's hand in disgust.

"Do we even want to know?" Tim asked.

"Oh, I bet DA five dollars Phoebe would cry after we gave her her present," Wanda said triumphantly. "You know DA, for someone so smart, that was a really stupid bet to take."

"I know, I know," groaned DA. "I put way too much faith in our Pheebs keeping it together."

The rest of the gang rolled their eyes. Except for Ralphie, who used the commotion as a cover to go get the last slice of cake.


Keesha put the finishing touches on Phoebe's face. Upon completion, she took a step back and exclaimed "Ta da!"

Phoebe looked in the mirror and smiled. "It looks great! Thank you so much." It was prom night, and the Twins were at Keesha's house getting ready. Keesha did Phoebe's makeup at Phoebe's behest. With that done, the two declared themselves ready and went downstairs to head to DA's house, where their dates would meet them. Ralphie was going with Keesha, as they agreed despite the break up. Tim had agreed to take Phoebe on the grounds that she was the least likely to make him dance. Arnold and DA were going together, as they had been dating the second half of the year. That left Carlos and Wanda, a combination which worried everyone.

Before Keesha and Phoebe could leave the house though, Keesha's mother and grandmother insisted they pose for pictures (Phoebe's dad had come to terms with his daughter growing up earlier in the evening). With their plastered, but mostly legitimate, smiles, the two stood for the endless shuttering of the cameras. Keesha was wearing a green dress, Phoebe a red one. The two were now the same height, owing to Keesha wearing heels while Phoebe opted for her Birkenstocks. Once the two Mrs. Franklins finished taking pictures, Keesha's grandmother came up to her.

"Before you go, I want to take a look at my granddaughter." She grabbed Keesha's face. "I'm so proud of you, such a confident and self assured young lady. Have a great time tonight."

"Thanks Grandma."

Mrs. Franklin let go of Keesha and turned to Phoebe. "And now my other granddaughter."

Upon hearing that, Phoebe smiled as wide as she could. Keesha winced, not out of jealously, but out of fear Phoebe would start crying and ruin her mascara.

Luckily, Phoebe found a way to keep it together even as Mrs. Franklin took a hold of her face. "I can't put into words how happy I am that you've been in Keesha's life. I hope you stay as sweet as you are forever."

"Thank you, Mrs. Franklin," croaked Phoebe.

With that, the elder Mrs. Franklin let go of the girls. Keesha's mother saw them off. "Have a great time girls, but remember to be smart and make good choices."

The girls nodded and headed to DA's. After some last minute finishing touches, they waited for the limo they had rented (courtesy of the largesse of the Perlstein and Parker families). The boys were already inside.

"Bad news ladies, they replaced the champagne with non-alcoholic stuff," Carlos warned.

"Somehow, I think we'll live, Carlos," replied DA dryly.

"She's right dude," Tim added. "The afterparty will take care of all that."

Ralphie high fived him. "You're the man, Tim!"

The eight chatted amicably during the limo ride to the hotel where prom was being held, all in an attempt to conceal their nerves at such a big night.

As the dance went on, Keesha and Ralphie got their groove on. They knew after tonight, the dating part of their relationship was over, but having made peace with that, it was time for some fun.

For their part, Phoebe and Tim were sitting at the table the group commandeered for themselves. They weren't saying much. Tim was content to draw Carlos and Wanda, who were doing whatever they felt like. At the moment, Carlos was holding Wanda by her ankles while she walked on her hands in the middle of the dance floor.

"And they're not even drunk yet. I think," Tim noted as he drew. He was so engrossed that he didn't realize Phoebe wasn't paying attention. Her focus was on the last couple, Arnold and DA, who were awkwardly but pleasantly dancing. She wasn't sure how they got together, other than the fact that DA was the last of the gang Arnold hadn't dated. Phoebe had to admit it kind of worked, although she didn't get the impression it was all that serious. Both of them were going to Ohio State in the fall, but from what she had been told, they did not intend to continue the relationship in Columbus.

At that moment, Keesha came to the table and sat down, as her and Ralphie took a break and he went to the bathroom. She noticed Phoebe's forlorn look and immediately guessed the problem.

"Wondering why that isn't you dancing with him, isn't it?"

Phoebe glared at her. "How did you know?"

"Because other than Tim, you haven't dated anyone since breaking up with Arnold. I know you. You were probably fantasying about prom night with him since you were eight."

"I'm sitting right here, you two," said Tim with a smirk.

"Sorry," said Phoebe. At Keesha, she shook her head. "I'm beginning to think we know each other a little too well."

"No yo don't. Look Pheebs, you broke up with him for a reason. Twice, might I add. You've moved on. Don't backslide now."

"I'm not backsliding! I'm just…wondering a little what might have been."

Keesha squeezed Phoebe's shoulder. "It's OK. I think we're all doing that in some way right now."

As the Twins mulled that over, the rest of the gang was heading over for a break. Carlos and Wanda had stolen a tray of cheese and crackers for everyone to eat. DA took the moment to stand up and address everyone.

"Guys, I don't know if you've noticed, but we spent a lot of time in high school dating each other."

"No DA, can't say I have," replied Carlos sarcastically.

"Shut up Carlos!" DA shot back. She calmed herself down and continued. "Well, none of those relationships worked out for various reasons. Despite that, we're all still friends. Do you know what that means?"

"There wasn't nearly enough sex involved?" Wanda asked, which caused the more sheepish members of the gang to take a sudden interest in the table.

"No," DA said flatly. "It means that it's clear that the eight of us were meant to just be friends. This dating thing just confuses everything."

"Agreed," Ralphie quickly added. Keesha gave him a look, but ultimately nodded her agreement as well. One by one, the gang realized DA was right. Most of them had suspected that was the case, but hearing it out loud just crystallized those thoughts.

"OK, with that settled, let's party!" declared Carlos. He grabbed Wanda and they went off to create more mayhem. The other six looked at each other a moment.

"Want to dance?" Ralphie asked to no one in particular. When his friends turned their gazes towards him, he clarified. "I mean in general. Just all of us. Together."

Keesha stood up. "I like that idea." One by one the rest of the gang, even Tim, got up. Save for interludes to keep Carlos and Wanda in line, the group stayed self-contained for the rest of the evening. They spent their high school careers, their childhoods really, together. It was only appropriate they spent Prom night as one group.


Clad in her cap and gown, Phoebe clapped for each of her fellow graduates as their names were called to pick up their diplomas. The students were being called in alphabetical order. When she heard "Keesha Marie Franklin," Phoebe stood up and cheered in exuberation. This earned her plenty of strange looks.

As she sat back down in embarrassment, a guffawing Ralphie, sitting next to her, tapped her arm.

"Are you going to do that for all of us?"

"Um, maybe not to that extent."

Ralphie laughed until his face suddenly perked up as if he just realized something, which is exactly what happened. "Wait, isn't your middle name Marie too?"

"Yeah."

"That explains how you two are so close I bet! You really are sort of twins!"

"Yeah, maybe Ralphie," replied Phoebe, humoring him while not letting on she thought the same thing when her and Keesha first met.

One by one, the gang was called up to receive their diplomas and officially graduate. Unfortunately for Phoebe, she was last alphabetically, which gave the group plenty of time to plot. When "Phoebe Marie Terese" was called, the gang whooped and hollered as loud as they could, drowning out all others. Thus, as Phoebe went to claim her diploma, anyone taking a photo of it would have discovered a shade of red that no one had seen on human skin before.

After the ceremony came the myriad of pictures. The gang had just taken one last photo of just themselves before heading home to change for the afterparty. The last two remaining were Keesha and Phoebe.

"Wow. We made it," said Phoebe with wonder.

"Yeah. Go figure," Keesha replied. She put an arm around her best friend. "Thanks for going through it with me."

Phoebe countered with an arm of her own. "You're welcome, but I should be thanking you. I never would've gotten through everything without you."

"Don't sell yourself short. You've always been there for me."

The two stood silently for a moment, but did not break their half-embrace. Phoebe had a look on her face that Keesha knew well. It meant Phoebe had something to say but hadn't gathered up the courage to say it yet. Keesha gave her a gentle back rub to try and help with the anxiety.

Finally, Phoebe blurted out, "Keesh, I'm scared."

"Of what?"

"The future. We're all going to be in different places."

"Pheebs, half of us are going to Ohio State. That's not even two hours from where we'll be."

"Yeah, but Carlos will be out of state, and Tim all the way in Boston. I…I just don't want to drift apart."

If Keesha was surprised at Phoebe's unease, she didn't show it. This was something Phoebe had worried about during every major transition. In truth, Keesha was a little scared too.

"We can't guarantee anything. We just have to try, and I think we're going to try a lot harder than most of these people will with their high school friends. We go too far back and have been through too much shit."

Phoebe smiled and began to relax a little, which Keesha took as a sign her reassurance was working. "And remember, we have each other, and that's not changing."

The auburn haired girl's smile got a little bigger, and she moved in to fully embrace Keesha. "See, there you are helping me again."

"Anytime, Pheebs. Anytime."


A/N: I looked it up, and Ashland is currently $30,000 a semester. Given the exorbitant increase in tuition over the past decade, $20,000 seems like a decent enough guess for what it was in 2003/04.

Yes, the Burger-Off is mostly ripped part and parcel from Ron and Chris's competition from the Parks and Recreation episode Soulmates.

To recap the gang's college destinations for those that haven't read Twenty Years On, Keesha and Phoebe: Ashland; Arnold, DA, Ralphie, and Wanda: Ohio State; Carlos: Purdue; Tim: Boston Fine Arts College (which isn't real, but is the school Jane was heading to at the end of Daria).

Next: College begins. I'm hoping to keep this to just two or three chapters so as not to make the pacing problem worse.