"Hey, Lucy, can you come here for a second?"

There was a short pause before the sound of footsteps knocked against the hallway floor and into the kitchen. Lucy ran in and came to a complete stop beside the kitchen counter. She was confused when she saw her mother sitting at the table with a plate of brownies. She slowly walked towards the table and stood there for a second.

"Mommy, what's this?"

"Brownies," Spencer said, with a smile. "Come sit down. We should talk."

"Am I in trouble?"

"No, just want to have a nice mother, daughter talk."

"Okay."

Lucy scooted out a chair, climbed up on it, and sat Criss-crossed. She folded her arms on the table and eyed her mother curiously.

"Luce, do remember when I told you about Toby and I having a date?" Lucy nodded. "Well, that is what I want to talk to you about."

"Are you and Toby going on another play date?"

Spencer smiled and nodded, "yeah, we are. Tomorrow night, Toby invited me to this dinner that means a lot to him. Believe me, sweetie if I could, I would bring you along with me, but I can't. You understand that, right?"

"Right."

"Okay, so I was thinking it might be nice if you spent the night at your Aunt Hanna's and Uncle Caleb's house. Would that be okay with you?"

Lucy nodded, "yeah. Mommy, can I ask you a question?"

"Sure, honey. You can ask me anything."

"Is Toby your boyfriend?"

"No," Spencer laughed. "I think we're just friends."

"If he's a boy who's your friend, wouldn't that make him your boyfriend?"

Spencer curled her lip and nodded once, "in a way, I guess. It's not like how Caleb was Hanna's boyfriend before they got married. It's different with me and Toby."

"I wish Toby was your boyfriend," she admitted.

"You do?" Lucy nodded. "Why?"

Lucy shrugged, "because Toby seems to make you smile a lot. Aunt Aria told me that Uncle Ezra used to make her smile a lot when they were young."

"Yeah," Spencer smiled softly. "Toby does have a way with making me happy."

"And if there's anybody who can make my mommy happy, he should be your boyfriend."

"Yeah, I suppose."

Lucy looked around the room for a second before asking, "may I have a brownie now?"

Spencer laughed, "yes."


Tonight, Spencer is going to dinner with Toby. He'll be here to pick her up in under four hours. Though it may seem like a lot of time to get ready, it's not for a girl. She still hasn't decided on what to wear to the dinner. She told Toby on the phone she would wear something extra spicy as a joke. Now, she's thinking maybe something spicy would look good on her, but what? What should she wear?

Normally, her friends would help her out with this, but they're not here. Hanna already came by to pick up Lucy. Plus, picking out good outfits for a date is something she needs to learn to do on her own. Her friends can't always be there to pick out her clothes and do her hair. No matter how much she may need it. Spencer Hastings is an independent woman dammit. She can pick out her own outfit to wear on her date.

She looked through each of her dresser drawers and scanned her closet for something good. She does have a few dresses that might look good on her. In the very back of her closet, her hand stumbled upon a red slimming panel tea dress. When she touched the material of the dress, she froze. Then, after rubbing it between her thumb and pointer finger, she pulled it out of her closet. This used to be her favorite evening dress. She remembers the first time she put it on. Now, looking back, she wishes she never even bought the ridiculous thing.


Loud music pounded Spencer's brain as she stood outside of one of the largest clubs in Europe. She and a few girls she met on the trip went shopping this afternoon. They went out and each of them bought some smoking hot dresses. Karen, who is a friend of Spencer's, suggested they all wear their dresses and sneak into a club. Lauren, who is another friend of Spencer's, was able to scoop out the hottest club in town.

"I can't believe we're about to get into one of the hottest clubs in town," Karen squealed.

"And thank god we're in Europe because all of us are the legal drinking age," Lauren added.

"It's great being eighteen," Karen grinned.

"Maybe for you," Lauren teased. "I'm nineteen."

"Guys we're next," Spencer whispered.

Karen did a little mini clap, "alright ladies, let's go make some memories."

The three of them slipped in through the side door and cut their way through the crowd. Tons of people are here tonight. Everybody looks like they're having a good time. The music's not too great, but it's not completely terrible. Lauren pointed out the bar and they made their way. The three of them took a seat on each of the stools and ordered their drinks.

As the hours ticked by, Spencer's friends each got swept away by some guy off to the dance floor. Spencer's been sitting here drinking beer after beer waiting for this night to end. If her parents knew that this was how she was spending her time in Europe, they would be so pissed. Oh well. They didn't seem pleased when she told them about her plans to study in Europe and work. When Melissa made plans to work in Europe, everyone was thrilled. Spencer can still remember the fight she had with her parents at that dinner just a few weeks ago.

"Excuse me, miss," a sweet, man with a British accent caught her attention.

Spencer turned in her stole. Her mouth dropped when she saw the man's face. She's seen this man before. She saw her back in her own hometown just a few weeks ago. Twas the night she had a fight with her parents at dinner.

"Hey," she smiled. "Small world, I wasn't expecting to see you here or ever again."

"Well, this is where I'm from," he smirked. "I'm surprised seeing you here. I'm beginning to think you're following me."

"No, I'm just here for a good time with my friends."

"Ah, do you mind if I sit?"

She shook her head, "not at all."

The night started out with them having a peaceful conversation over a few beers. This guy seemed totally nice and innocent. He told a lot of jokes that made Spencer laugh. He told stories that seemed too extreme to be real, but he swears they really happened. This guy just seemed perfect. Spencer couldn't seem to keep her mind focused on anything other than the 'fine British boy' in front of her. Towards the end of the night, when the guy leaned in to kiss her, all of Spencer's thinking process went right out the window.


Spencer played with the dress for a long time before taking it between her two hands. Using all her strength, she ripped the dress in half then threw it in the garbage can. Why did she think keeping that dress was a good idea? Maybe it was a reminder of who she needs to stay clear of. Then again, who really wants an everyday reminder of your past mistakes? The only good thing that came out of that night was Lucy. She just wishes it could've been with someone else who really did care about her. Not just herself, but Lucy too.

She looked through her closet some more and finally found the perfect dress to wear. Spencer picked a black seamed sheath dress with black pumps. She curled her hair in thick curls and coated her eye's with black eyeliner and mascara, Normally she tries not to wear too much makeup, but on nights like these, she wants to look extra good.

As expected, Toby knocked on her door right when he said he'd be here. Spencer finished getting ready a few minutes ago but kept looking at herself in the mirror. She wondered if there was anything else she could do to make herself really stand out. After hearing Toby knock a second time, she ran to the door and opened it. Of course, Toby showed up looking handsome as hell in his suit and tie. His hair is pushed up and back in a hot hair style. His left hand is down by his side and he removes his right hand behind his back and presents her with a single white rose.

"Hey, beautiful," he smiled.

She smiled and reached out to accept the rose. On past dates, men don't normally bring her flowers. A couple men did, but they were always the dead looking red roses. Spencer likes red roses, but she prefers white. How did Toby know she liked white roses? Maybe it had something to do with the painting of the vase of white roses in her living room.

"Thank you," she finally thanked him for the rose.

She invited him inside for a bit after Toby noted they still have a few minutes before the dinner starts. He waited while Spencer looked for a vase to put her rose in. She wants it to last long and stay healthy. Like this relationship, that's clearly blooming between Toby and herself. Toby recommended bringing a jacket since it's a little chilly outside. Spencer insisted she would be fine. Really, she was hoping that if she did get cold, Toby would give her his suit jacket to wear. She knows it's a bit silly not to bring her own jacket, but there's just something so sweet about a man offering his jacket to a woman. She grabbed her purse off the counter and made sure her phone was in there. Just in case, Hanna or Caleb needed to get a hold of her.

Toby walked Spencer to the car and opened the door for her before getting in on the driver's side. The drive to the dining hall took less than ten minutes. Where they're going is right here in Rosewood. Again, Toby opened Spencer's door for her when they got out. She sent him a sweet smile when he took her hand and lead the way.

When they entered the main room, the room was dimly lit with lanterns sitting in the middle of each of the tables. Spencer linked her arm with Toby's as they walked through the crowd of men and women. Toby noticed how some of his fellow workmates kept eyeing Spencer up and down. Seeing those guys fawning over her gave him a strange pang of jealousy. He moved closer to her hoping to send a message to those other guys.

"Did I tell you how amazing you look tonight?" He said to her.

She smiled, "I think you've mentioned it on the way here."

"I can't express it enough. You look beautiful."

"Thank you," she grinned, giving his cheek a little peck with her lips. "You look good yourself."

As they were walking to one of the tables, they were approached by Officer Brandon and Barry. Scott is one of the officers who's not a big fan of what he did in the shooting. He claims it was stupidity, but Lorenzo assured him Scott was just jealous.

"Cavanaugh," Brandon greeted him. "What a pleasant surprise. Everyone at the station was placing bets on whether you would come tonight. I owe Barry $30."

"This is a dinner for all the officers, so of course I came."

"And you brought a date. Aren't you going to introduce us to the lady?"

Toby looked at Spencer then back at them, "yeah, this is Spencer. Spencer these are my co-workers Brandon and Barry."

"Hi," Spencer shook each of their hands.

"You're very lucky, miss," Barry said. "To have someone who's willing to put their life on the line for you."

Spencer wasn't sure if that was supposed to be a compliment or a jab at what Toby did. Based on their body language, and sarcastic tones, she's guessing they're just over here to give Toby a hard time. These bastards don't appreciate good workers when they see one.

"Maybe you two can learn a thing or two from Toby. Instead of standing there wetting your pants, maybe you should try doing your job next time," Spencer replied.

"Wow," Brandon chuckled. "Kittens got claws."

Spencer glared at the two men and opened her mouth to say something snarky back. Toby placed a hand on her shoulder and she closed her mouth.

"We're just going to go find our table now," Toby said. "I'll see you guys later."

Toby took Spencer's hand and they continued walking. They reached their table and Toby pulled out a chair for Spencer. She thanked him before checking her phone to see if she missed any calls. No calls were made so far. Toby sat beside her. They were soon accompanied by Lorenzo and his fiance. Toby introduced Spencer to Lorenzo then, Lorenzo introduced his fiancee to the pair. The four of them fell easily into a conversation.

"I'm very pleased that I'm finally getting the pleasure to meet you, Spencer," Lorenzo said, "Toby's told me a lot about you."

"Has he?" Spencer shot Toby a teasing smile.

Toby blushed, "It's possible I may have mentioned you a few times."

She smiled, "how sweet."

Towards the middle of the night, Tanner stood up and gave a speech about the officers. She praised them on how good of a job they did. Spencer smiled a lot when Tanner talked about one of their bravest officers.

"Before I end things tonight," Tanner spoke. "I want to take just a few minutes to honor one of our own officers. This person was very brave and stood beside his fellow officers. He did what he had to do to save the life of everyone in that bank. I am so proud to have this officer on my team serving for our town. Ladies and gentlemen, I present this bravery award to… Officer Brandon."

Everyone in the room started clapping expect for the ones sitting at Toby's table. Toby was stunned that Tanner called on Brandon. Although, he didn't look nearly as upset as Spencer did.

Tanner went on," Brandon walked into the bank with a couple other officers. This man took great risks to help everyone who was in the bank that day. If it weren't for him, everybody would've died that day. Thank you, Brandon, for your bravery."

Brandon walked up to the stage and accepted his award from Tanner. When he walked back to his table, Brandon sent a smug look in Toby's direction. Brandon walked off stage after receiving his award then, took his seat. Tanner didn't say anything after that. Instead, she walked off the stage and took a seat.

"Is this some kind of joke?" Spencer whispered.

Toby placed a hand over hers, "it's okay."

"No, it's not okay. He's not the one who saved everyone."

"But, he was there," Toby clarified.

"I don't understand. I thought this dinner was about you."

"It's for all the officers who were there."

"You should've been the one to receive that award. You're the one who risked your life to save everyone. You and Lorenzo both did."

"Hey," he brushed her hair back. "Just you being alive and okay is reward enough."

"I just hate how you were completely robbed tonight."

"I'm really sorry about this," Lorenzo said. "They made it seem like you would get recognized."

"That's okay," Toby shrugged. "I'm not in this for the awards. I'm here to make a difference and continue protecting the lives of everyone in this town. That's what matters to me."

"I guess you're right," Spencer said.

"Hey, I should probably get you home. It's getting late and you have to get up early to get Lucy tomorrow."

"Right," Spencer started to stand up.

"It was nice meeting you, Spencer," Lorenzo said.

She smiled, "you too."

When they walked outside, the air felt bitterly cold against Spencer's bare arms. Toby noticed her shiver and took off his suit jacket to give to her. She pretended like she didn't need it, but he insisted. Now, Spencer has his jacket wrapped around her upper body. Just knowing it belongs to him is keeping her warm. They got in his car and started back to her place. Like any other date night, Toby walked her to her front door.

"Well, tonight didn't go as expected, but I still had a good time," she said.

"Really?"

"Yeah. I think just being able to spend time with you was enough for it to be a good time."

He chuckled nervously, "well, I knew I was fun to be around, but I didn't know I was that fun."

His thumb brushed over her pale cheek. Her skin is ice cold and he can see her breath every time she exhales. Spencer looked into his blue eyes and swore she saw a twinkle. It was like looking at the stars. She almost wanted to make a wish. How could she have anything to wish for when all she wants is standing right in front of her? Well, there is one little thing she's wishing for.

As if he was reading her mind, Toby leaned in until his lips were pressed firmly on hers. Finally, she thought as her slightly cold hands reached up to frame his face. It felt like a thousand fireworks ignited inside his chest. His heart began pounding like a race horse. He wrapped his arms around her waist and hers went around his shoulders. The kiss felt warm and comforting. It was everything they both dreamed about. Truthfully, it was even better than they dreamed about.

Even though their minds were still screaming for each other, their lungs screaming for air grew louder. Very slowly, Toby pulled away from her and rested his nose against hers. A huge smile spread across her lips and Toby's face mirrored her reaction.

"Wow," he said, breathlessly.

Spencer smiled, "I bet officer Brandon never gets rewarded this way."

Toby laughed, "that's the best award I've ever received."

She kissed him for a short second then took a step back. She thanked him for taking her out tonight then promised to call tomorrow. They said their last goodnights and even shared a short goodbye kiss before Spencer went inside with Toby's jacket still around her shoulders. Toby walked back to his car and smiled the whole way home. Spencer too couldn't stop smiling. Even when she changed out of her dress. When she lied down in her bed, that 'I just go kissed' smile never left her face. Spencer felt around on her bed with her hand until she felt Toby's jacket still sitting there. She grabbed it and held it between her arms like a little girl holding her teddy bear. She sniffed the jacket and smiled. It smells just like him. Tonight was definitely one of the best nights she's had probably her whole life.


Spencer and Toby finally kissed! Empathize on the finally. The night didn't go as expected, but at least, they weren't interrupted and got the whole evening together. Plus, they kissed. Who could be disappointed about that? Thank you for reading and please, don't forget to review.