Moonlighting: The Parent Trap

by Bluemoon Stranger

The Parent Trap a la David and Maddie!

Written with madolynhaze and posted on our co-writers profile as Bluemoon Haze but thought might followers might miss it so posting as me too. Our version of The Parent Trap starring Maddie and David! Hope you enjoy it!

MOONLIGHTING: PARENT TRAP

Gin: Pop….Earth to, Pop!

Gin jabbed her father in the ribs…David Addison winced and snapped back from his far away thoughts.

David: Yeouch! Whhhaaaaatttt…!? David sat up straight on the soft cushioned couch.

Gin: Stop avoiding the question…what was my ma's favorite food?

David shrugged again. He shook his head.

David: I dunno…

Gin devoured another slice of pizza. She began to talk with her mouth full…

Gin: Like, if you ordered pizza, what would she want on it?

David: She didn't eat pizza….(David knew SHE did eat pizza and still recalled what SHE liked on it but he didn't want to talk about HER).

Gin: Didn't eat pizza…that makes no sense…who doesn't eat pizza? You never tell me anything about her. I know two things…she was beautiful and she was a bitch…

David: You nailed it.

David took a large bite of pizza and stared straight ahead at the ballgame on TV…

Knowing that she would get no more from her father about her elusive Mother, Gin shook her head, grabbed another slice of pizza and pushed the horror movie they rented to watch that night into the DVD player and pressed play…

David: Hey! The game's not over!

Gin: Whatever, Pop. You weren't watching anyway…

Sometimes Gin knew that her dad's mind was far away in the past and she only wished he would share some of those memories with her. Gin stared at the TV as the movie began. She quickly got into the movie and forgot about asking any more questions.

David stared at Gin, her blonde hair, her turned up nose…always reminded him…Despite David trying to force those memories out of his mind – sometimes just looking at Gin's upturned nose and classic looks reminded him of a complicated blonde he had tried to purge from his heart. But when his daughter questioned him about her mother it brought back all the things that he had tried so hard to forget. His mind wandered back in time…

12 years earlier…

The babies were crying in unison as Maddie and David stormed around the mansion in another heated argument. As their parents screamed and slammed doors, the babies, Virginia (Gin) and Madolyn (Lyn), screamed louder, matching their parents' octave…it'd been this way every day since the twins were born six months ago. But now the fights were getting nastier and violent. How long would it take for one of Maddie's thrown objects hit one of the babies? And this fight had turned into a doozy...

Later that night, when he finally crawled into bed nursing a cut lip, David laid with his back to Maddie, feeling more miserable than he ever. But this was now his life now - his fate. Maddie wanted to end it, sell Blue Moon, sell the mansion, the car, pay the bank and split what was left. She actually suggested each of them take a baby and go their separate ways, permanently. That's when he called her a psychotic bitch and got punched…pow, right in the kisser!

He would never understand how her mind worked…but David was a man who believed in sticking to his commitments and having babies with Maddie was committed as it got. No, they don't get along…they'd never gotten along…well, ok, they got along long enough to…well…get pregnant with the twins…but besides that, they were oil and water…but he wasn't just going to walk away, especially from one of his kids!? That was ludicrous…as far as he was concerned they were tied together forever, and that was that…

Just then, David got another kick to the ribs…and his mind snapped back to the present again.

David: Ouch! (He grabbed Gin's foot and twisted it playfully) this foot is a lot bigger than it used to be, ya know!

Gin squirmed and tossed a handful of popcorn at him. David caught some in his mouth and chewed loudly. He grinned at his daughter.

David: Thanks!

Gin: (Gestured) Pass me the red vines, knucklehead! I've asked three times!

David: Sorry…jeez Louise…

Gin: You're strange, Pop.

David: Watch the movie, will ya…

Gin: You watch the movie…

The two watched their horror flick straight through without flinching…

Later as they headed off to bed…

Gin: Pop…how much longer are we going to stay in Phili?

David: Until Grandpa D is better, honeybunch…

Gin: How long will that be?

David: I don't know, sport…we'll see what the doctor says this week.

Gin: I gotta be back in L.A. for 8th grade…

David: Well, we've got a month…let's hope Grandpa goes home this week.

David hugged Gin goodnight and sent her off to bed…her mention of starting 8th grade triggered David's mind to thoughts about his other daughter…Lyn…

Meanwhile…in Paris, France…

Maddie: Lyn!? Lynnie…I'm home!

The Hayes maid, Isabel, approached Maddie and took her coat and briefcase…

Isabel: Bonjour, Madam Hayes.

Maddie: Bonjour, Isabel…where's Lyn? Is she home?

Isabel: She no home, Madam, she play tennis today…

Maddie: Ah. That's right. I suppose I'll see her at dinner. We'll eat at 7pm.

Isabel: Oui, Madam.

Maddie: Coq Au Vin?

Isabel: Anything you want, Madam Hayes…

Maddie: Merci, Izzy… I'll go up and have a bath, would you bring me a glass of chardonnay?

Isabel: Oui Oui…

Two hours later, Maddie and Lyn greeted each other in the dining room by kissing each other on each cheek.

Lyn: Hello, Mother…how was your trip?

Maddie: Long…What was I gone? Three weeks?

Lyn: Four…

Maddie: Four…wow…well, it was very productive, thank you for asking.

Lyn: Will you be home this weekend, Mother? I have a tennis match. I thought you might want to come and watch…I'm the top rated player on the team.

Maddie: You are!? (Maddie caressed her daughter's cheek and then looked at her calendar) Oh, I'm sorry sweetie…I have to be in London this weekend. Why don't you come with me?

Lyn: (Looking disappointed) The tennis match…

Maddie: (Noticing the disappointed look on her daughter's face) I'm sorry, darling. But you know this is my busy season.

Lyn: I know, Mother…I understand…but, come to a practice sometime, I want you to meet my tennis coach.

Maddie: (Cringed) Not this thing with your coach again!?

Lyn: Yeah, he's really handsome…he's 55, he lives nearby and has a daughter my age.

Maddie: (Avoiding) Oh…well ok, maybe someday, honey…after fashion season.

Lyn: Why do you avoid men? Was my father really that awful?

Maddie: (Considers) The relationship was awful, more so than the man…(shrugged) we were kinda awful to each other. And I do not avoid men, I've just been busy.

Lyn: For 12 years?

Maddie: (Smiles) I just haven't met the right one, that's all…

Lyn: How do you know when it's the right one, mom?

Maddie: (Looks into her daughter's green eyes) It's important to find someone who shares your same values and outlook on life, Lynnie. Someone you have fun with, someone you can count on…

Lyn: …and you never met anyone like that?

Maddie: (Shrugging) I was never lucky in love, honey…but you'll meet someone great one day…(squeezes her arm) if that's what you want.

Maddie looked away and continued to review her calendar and Lyn looks at how beautiful her mother is…there had to be someone out there for her…

Meanwhile…

David: (On phone) …I miss you too, babe…

The woman on the other end of the phone began to talk dirty to David.

David: (Blushed) Honey…I didn't know women talked like that…

…more dirty talk.

David: Oh…I'm gonna hurry home, believe that…

Gin entered the room and David cleared his throat.

David: As soon as I get home it's steaks ala Dave…

Gin rolled her eyes at him…she's heard it all before. David threw her a look…

David: Alright, babe, I gotta go...got my kid staring at me.

He listened and began to laugh…Gin can only imagine…David made two kissy sounds…

David: Bye Bye…

David hung up the phone with a smile on his face.

Gin: Who…was that?

David: That woman I went out with before we left for Phili.

Gin: Your latest fling?

David: I don't know, maybe more…I like her…

Gin: (Scoffs) Can this one read?

David: My god, you gotta mean streak.

Gin: Well, come one…most of these chicks don't make it past breakfast…

David threw a couch pillow at Gin…she ducked, grabbed it and threw it back hitting him in the head.

Gin: You can do better than these women, Pop…

Back in France…

That night Maddie climbed in between her silky sheets, laid back and thought about Lyn asking about David…which brought up other memories…Gin…she silently wiped a tear thinking of the daughter she left behind. Maddie sometimes regretted her decision, but it seemed like the only option at the time…

12 years earlier…

After spending another night battling with David to the point she ended up punching him…splitting his lip open and watching blood spill everywhere, Maddie had finally had enough. She wasn't going to live like this, and she wasn't going to raise her daughters in such a volatile environment. She knew David would never walk away (a huge surprise to Maddie!), so she took matters into her own hands.

The next morning Maddie went to the bank, she cleared out her account, and then headed over to her lawyers office where she signed both her house and her half of Blue Moon over to David as her lawyer begged her not to be foolish and promised he'd get her everything in court. Maddie ignored him. Afterward, she went home, packed up Lyn, the smaller and needier of the two infants, left a note for David, demanding that he not come find her and boarded the next plane to Paris, where an old modeling friend of hers had just opened a new agency and needed someone to manage the models.

Maddie's thoughts were interrupted by a light knock on her bedroom door.

Lyn: Mother?

Maddie wiped her eyes dry, picked up her book and pretended to read.

Maddie: Yes, Lynnie?

Lyn: Can I come in?

Maddie: Come in, baby.

Lyn entered the room and sat on her mother's bed with her long legs tucked under her.

Lyn: Can I sleep in here with you?

Maddie: In here? Oh, baby…you know how I feel about that.

Lyn: I know, but I've missed you…you've been gone for ages.

Maddie put her arm out and Lyn moved closer to her mother as she put her head on her shoulder.

Maddie: I'm sorry, Darling…I know I was gone longer than usual this time, but I don't worry about you…you have Isabel…you're busy with school, you've got friends, piano lessons, sculpture class, swimming, French, Mandarin…tennis…

Lyn: Yeah, of course… I just wish we had more family here. I wish Grandma and Grampa Hayes were here more…I wish…I wish I knew my father…I wish I had a brother or sister…

Maddie looked into her daughter's sparkling green eyes and saw David staring back at her…she once again felt that pang of sadness and guilt that she just can't bare sometimes and wondered how much longer she's going to be able to keep the fact that Lyn does have a sister…and a father who's tried to contact her over the years…but she also feared Lyn will hate her for the decisions she's made.

Maddie: Well, dear…that's just not how things are right now.

Lyn: (Snuggled into her mother) I'm not saying you're not enough, Mother…I just wish…

Maddie: (Patted her head) I know, dear…life here can be a little lonely. (She kisses the top of her blonde noggin.) Alright, go on, dear…go sleep in your own bed…you've got an early match and I've got an early flight.

The next week in London, Marianne, Maddie's business partner has some interesting news for Maddie…

Marianne: Maddie, a big investor wants us to partner and open up another agency in Los Angeles, and I think you should go and head up the operation.

Maddie: Me? Los Angeles? I'm not so sure that's a good idea…why don't you go, Marianne?

Marianne: Me? No…no…I'm a New Yorker through and through…I could never live with all that sun. Besides…don't you have some unfinished business in L.A.? An ex-husband…(lowers her voice) a daughter?

Maddie: (Shrugs and looks away) We were never married…and…no…no…there is no unfinished…that business has been finished for a lonnnng time now.

Marianne: ok…well, whatever,…but still…one of us needs to go open this agency, and with me so involved in the day to day of the company here, the only logical choice is you.

Maddie: (Sighs) Really…me? Back in L.A.? When would this be happening…?

Marianne: I need you there by next week.

Maddie: Next week!?

Marianne: We'll have all of your things shipped…you'd better go out there ASAP and start house hunting…

A few days later, Maddie landed in L.A. feeling a mix of emotions. On one hand, it felt great to be back in the U.S. again, but on the other, all of the memories of her life years ago in L.A. came flooding in and she was overwhelmed… why had she agreed to this!?

While house hunting, she asked to see places in Brentwood – a neighborhood far away from her old mansion in the Hollywood Hills, which is now David and Gin's house, or was...? The last time Maddie talked to Agnes she said that Gin and David had been living in Philadelphia to help David's dad who had had a stroke – so she wasn't sure if they were even in L.A. anymore. Which was a bit of a relief since many people in Maddie's life encouraged her daily to get the girls back together…and this move to L.A. wasn't going to make that any easier.

Maddie's parents had been hounding her for years to come clean to Lyn about her twin…they were never comfortable with any of this from the beginning. In fact, they made an effort to see Gin once a year, flying her out to Chicago during her Spring breaks, but they always promise …begrudgingly, to let Maddie and David explain everything to the girls in their own way and in due time. Maddie had such a strong mind…they feared…and had been threatened…they'd be cut out of Lyn's life if they were to overstep their bounds…and there was no sense in pleading a case to David…he wanted the girls together years ago. But, Maddie is the mother, so they really had no choice but to leave these decisions in her hands.

By the second day of house hunting, Maddie found a beautiful two-story, 5-bedroom Mansion with a pool, a sundeck and picture windows overlooking an English garden. She put a down payment on the house and called Lyn, who was still back in Paris wrapping up school and activities. Lyn was beyond excited about moving to L.A. and starting a new life…she somehow felt that's where she was always meant to be. Maddie hoped this move would bring the two of them closer now that she'd be traveling less and home more. After telling Lyn all about the new house, Maddie went to Wilshire Arms Academy de Francois, a prestigious private school for girls nearby, to register Lyn for classes. The Academy school year was due to start in three weeks.

Meanwhile…

Gin slammed down the phone and started to screaming wildly…

Gin: Yabba-Dabba-Do! POP! POP! You're not going to believe this…POP!

David ran into the living room from his father's bedroom.

David: For the love of Mike, Virginia…keep your voice down, Grampa D is finally asleep!

Gin: I don't care…he's going to want to hear this too!

David: Well, spit it out, already…

Gin: I got recruited to that fancy-schmancy school!

David: Schmancy…what? Recruited…Where?

Gin: That freaking, crazy expensive academy…where they speak French…remember? They asked me to come try out for the basketball team before we left? Remember?

David: (Stunned) Yeah, but we laughed about that…you were there for 10 minutes, those snooty Frenchies looked down their noses at you and we left…we drove by honking the horn and snubbing our noses right back…we thought there was no way…

Gin: Well…I guess they missed our crude gestures, because they want me to be the captain of their basketball team…I start in three weeks… and my tuition is covered, Pop! I'm gonna get edumacated, for free!

David: (Chuckles) Free!?…well, now you're talkin'!

David gave her a high five and a hug.

David: Congrats, mi amore…I always knew they'd take you…

Gin: (Scoffs) No you didn't you big dummy…

David: Sure…sure I did…do bees buzz…do ducks quack? Sure I knew…

Gin: So…we're going back to L.A. now, right, Pop?

David hugged his daughter and looked towards his dad's bedroom door.

David: Sure, peanut…soon…soon as we can.

Gin looked up at his Dad's worried face.

The next week…

Lyn arrived in L.A. and was over the moon. She loved the sunshine, she loved the new house, she loved the half-clad cool kids who walked around with bleached hair and oversized sunglasses. The first thing she did was have their driver take her down to the beach so she could put her toes into the Pacific Ocean…the water felt great, she was living the absolute dream.

The next day, when her mother was at work Lyn looked up Blue Moon Detective Agency in the yellow pages of the phone book and dialed the number. It's one of the only things she remembered her mother telling her about her past life here and she knew this place was where her mother met her father.

Agnes: (answering phone) Got some trouble? We'll be there on the double? Fido lost? We'll find him at a low cost. Straying spouse? We'll nab the louse. Just tell us your need, we'll be there indeed. Blue Moon Investigations, how may we help you?

Lyn: (bit nervous) …Um…hi.

Agnes: (quirky) Hi!

Lyn: Is…ah…

Agnes: No need to give me one word at a time…I've gotten much faster now…give it to me all at once…

Lyn: (clears her throat.) Is…David Addison available?

Agnes: Oh, I'm sorry, Mr. Addison isn't working at this location right now, can I connect you with another detective?

Lyn's stomach dropped…

Lyn: Not working there?

Agnes: Not working here. He's on the East Coast now.

Lyn felt ill…she'd waited all this time to contact her father…she thought for sure this was her chance to finally meet him…and he's gone?

Agnes: Do you want to speak to Detective Viola? He's one of the best.

Lyn: No…merci…I mean…thank you.

Lynn hung up the phone then burst into tears.

Meanwhile…

Gin was reading a comic book in the waiting room of the hospital room in Philadelphia – her Grandfather relapsed early that morning and was rushed back in…Gin and David had planned to fly back to L.A. that afternoon. After hours of waiting, David came out to find Gin.

Gin: Pop…how is he?

David: Not great, G…I don't think we're going to make it back home tonight.

Gin was worried about her grandfather, but couldn't hide her disappointment. She only had a few days before school started. David rubbed her back…

Gin: I'm sorry, sweetie…

Gin shrugged and gave him an understanding side hug.

Gin: It's not your fault, Pop. I just want Grandpa to get better.

David: Well all do, hun…we all do.

Two weeks later, back in L.A…

Maddie pulled up in front of Lyn's school to drop her off on the first day. They both stared up at the big brick building with nervous excitement and then look at each other. Maddie tucked a bit of Lyn's long blonde locks behind her ear, smiled into her sparkling green eyes and took notice of her turned up nose identical to Maddie's own…

Maddie: You ready for this, mi amore?

Lyn: Yes, I think I am, Mother…ready as I'll ever be.

Maddie: You're going to do great…you'll make so many new friends…this is going to be a wonderful year for you, I just know it.

Lyn: I hope so…I hope I'm not too different from all the girls here in America…

Maddie: Oh honey…you'll adapt just fine…You're a Hayes…we come from a long line of strong women…now…go in there and show them what you're made of!

Lyn: Thank you, Mother…

They kiss on the cheek.

Maddie: See you tonight…can't wait to hear all about it.

Lyn climbed out of the car and stood at the curb, waving to her mother one last time before she drove away. As she turned around with an arm full of books and began walking toward the school a girl riding a skateboard at top speed suddenly was careening towards her…

Skateboarder: Whoa…whoa…whoa…

…the two girls nearly collided as the skateboarder veered out of the way just in time…still managing to knock all the books from Lyn's hands…they spilled across the sidewalk. The skateboarder sailed on down the street without bothering to stop and help and yelled back…

Skateboarder: Watch where you're walking, Blondie!

Lyn, incensed, looked towards the skateboarder…but only caught a flash of short pink hair on a tall, thin frame sporting an ill-fitted uniform, skating away at high speed.

Lyn: (yelled) Slow down you maniac!

The skateboarder flipped her off as she turned the corner at the end of the street disappearing from view.

Another girl, Becky, rushed toward Lyn and began to help her gather up her books.

Becky: Are you ok?

Lyn: Oh…Oui…merci…

Becky put the books she'd picked up back in Lyn's hands…

Becky: That little punk almost killed you…

Lyn: So reckless…I hope I never see her again…

Becky: Well…she was wearing a school uniform…so…chances are…

The girls smiled at each other. Becky put out her hand…

Becky: Bonjour, Je suis Rebecca…but everyone calls me, Becky.

Lyn: Je suis, Madolyn…but everyone calls me, Lyn…

Becky: First day?

Lyn: Yes. You?

Becky: No…I've been here since kindergarten.

Lyn: Oh…lucky…I just moved her from Paris two weeks ago…that's where I grew up.

Becky: Lucky…I've been learning French since my first year here and I'm still not fluent!

Lyn: I can help you!

Becky: That would be awesome…(taking her arm) Well, come on, Lyn…let me show you around.

Becky took Lyn under her wing and gave her the full tour of the school. Lyn was impressed. Becky and Lyn had their first classes together. By lunch time they were fast friends.

As they stood in line for lunch in the cafeteria; the girls chatted easily and shared stories about their summer vacations. Becky was eager to hear about the school Lynn attended in France and if there were any cute guys that Lyn liked. Becky filled Lyn in on all the gossip about people and the school. She pointed out the cute boys and nasty girls. Then, just as Lyn turned around to follow Becky to a table, the tray she was holding slammed right into a girl, spilling tomato sauce all down the front of her shirt…Lyn was mortified but when she looked up she locked eyes with the girl with the pink hair – the rude skateboarder!

Gin & Lyn: YOU!?

Gin looked down at her tomato sauce covered school shirt…

Gin: For the love of…(looking up at Lyn) I didn't know they had special ed here…

Lyn: (Incensed) Do you ever look where you're going!?

Gin: Trust me, I do my best to avoid little princesses like you…

Lyn: Don't worry… the stain adds to your garage band look…

Gin stepping forward with a cold look in her eyes…

Gin: You gotta problem with the way I look?

Lynn stepped forward with fire in her eyes…

Lyn: No, I gotta problem with the way you act…

The two girls stared at each other heated and ready to brawl, but as they stared deep into each other's eyes something felt strangely familiar…Just then, Becky grabbed Lyn's arm and pulled her away…the girls went off in separate directions.

Lyn: What is wrong with that weirdo!?

Becky: I don't know, I've never seen her before…but, you don't want to fight…you'll get Saturday detention…

Becky dragged a fired-up Lyn to one of the tables in the cafeteria and made her sit down as Lyn glared at Gin from across the room. A couple of girls, Becky's best friends, were sitting at the table and witnessed everything.

Jill: What's the matter? You and your sister don't get along?

Lyn: My…who? …What?

Jill: (Gesturing towards Gin) Isn't that your sister?

Lyn: My sister…ha! That animal?! No no no…I don't have a sister…I don't even know her…never seen her before in my life.

Jill: You guys look alike…

Jill looked at the other girls…

Jill: Don't they look alike?

Sally: (Looked at Gin and then at Lyn) Yeah…kinda.

Lyn: That's literally the most revolting thing I've ever heard in my life. (looking at Becky) you don't think I look like that freak, do you?

Becky: (shakes her head) I don't see it…

Meanwhile…Gin stormed across the cafeteria and into the bathroom where she dabbed at the tomato stain with a wet towel, which only seemed to make it worse. One of her basketball teammates followed her in…

Tammy: What'd that girl do to you?

Gin: She dumped her food all over me.

Tammy: On purpose?

Gin: Yeah, on purpose…she's had it out for me all day…

Tammy: I told you…some of the girls here are real bitches…but stay away from her…you don't want to fight…you'll get kicked off the team!

Gin took a deep breath.

Gin: Yeah, you're right…but my dad's gonna think I'm a real puss for not taking her out.

Tammy: (patting her on the back) When we're winning trophies he'll forget all about it.

Gin: Do you have a sweater I can borrow?

Tammy and Gin left the cafeteria and headed off to their lockers.

After school, Lyn stood on the curb waiting for her driver to pick her up. As she waited, a sportscar pulled up blaring R&B…the driver hit the horn…and who comes running to the car in her stained shirt, carrying her skateboard, but that pink haired freak! As pinkie pulled the car door open…Lyn couldn't help but get a glimpse at who spawned this manner-less monster…to her surprise her father didn't look so bad…

Gin: Hiya, Pop!

Man's voice from the car: Hiya, Champ…

The man's hand reached over to help Gin load her things into the car…

Man: You hungry? Thought we'd go do Pinks and chow down on some dogs to celebrate your first day of school…

Gin: Starving…

Gin climbed in, slammed the door shut and as Lyn watched them drive off. Lyn could hear both Gin and her dad singing to the song playing on the radio. Strangely she felt a tinge of envy that even this weird chick has a dad who cares enough to come pick her up from school. Just then, a black town car pulled up – Lyn's driver got out to open the door and put Lyn's things in the trunk.

Lyn: Marvin…drive me to the ocean, will ya?

Marvin: No can do Miss. Hayes…you've got piano in fifteen minutes.

Lyn sighed and sat back…she wished she was heading off to "grab a dog" with her dad. She reached in her bag to take out carrot sticks to snack on before practice.

Gin and David zoomed down Wilshire towards LaBrea singing at the top of their lungs to the Temptations. After the second song David turned the volume down…

David: So…

Gin: So…?

David: How was it?

Gin: It? Can you be more specific…

David: School, that big brick building with all the books and numbers…how was it?

Gin: It was education, Pop…whadda ya want me to say?

Even though the blonde girl was annoying, Gin loved her new school and was thrilled that they had returned to LA. Thankfully, Grandpop had gotten better quicker than expected and was able to go home and back to work part-time. Uncle Richie was going to stay on to help at the fish store until Grandpop was 100%.

David: (Reached over and ruffled her short hair) How'd the new look go over?

Gin: (looking in the side mirror) Good…nobody said anything… (shrugging) of course they've never seen me before, soooo…

David: I think I did pretty good on the dye job…maybe I have a future in cosmetology…

He smiled and winked at her.

Gin: I think there's a little more to it than smearing pink dye into two inches of hair…

David: (Laughing) I'll stick to investigating…so, tell me about your day!

Gin: Same as any other school…books…bells…bullies…

David: Bullies?

Gin: Well, just one…some Barbie dumped her lunch on me.

David: Dumped her lunch…you let her have it, didn't ya?

Gin: (Shrugging) I didn't want to get kicked off the team.

David gave Gin a side glance and then poked her in the ribs.

David: You going soft on me?

Gin: (Flinching) No…no, of course not…I let her have it…

David: You're an Addison…we don't take nothin' from nobody…you let her know not to mess with you…huh…

He jabbed her in the shoulder with his elbow…

David: Huh…?

Gin: Of course, Pop…she's nothing…a princess…

David sneered. He knew the type...

Gin: It won't happen again…trust me.

David and Gin pulled up at Pinks Hotdog and got in line. The begin talking about what they want to order when suddenly a shrill southern voice attached to an overly buxom brunette sidled up to them.

Leslie-Lou: David…David! There you are…

Leslie-Lou bent forward exposing her cleavage even more as David leaned in to kiss her on the cheek…though, it lands very close to the corner of her mouth. An immediate jolt of disgust and jealousy ran through Gin. Her dad did warn her that she'd be meeting her soon…

David: (Sappy baby voice) Leslie-Lou…this is my daughter, Virginia.

Gin: (Mocking) Leslie-Lou…(annoyed) Virginia!?

David plastered a grin on his face and nudged Gin to be nice. Gin forced a smile and stuck out her hand.

Gin: Hi, Louise-Lou…I'm Gin-Lou…

David nudged her again…

Leslie- Lou: Leslie, hun…Leslie-Lou…not Louise.

Gin: Right…er….sorry.

David put his arm around Leslie-Lou's waist as he rested his hand low on her hip. He drawled into her ear…

David: Whadda ya havin'?

Leslie-Lou: Oh…Sug…I don't know, do they have salad?

Gin laughed out loud…

Gin: This is the best hot dog joint in town and you want a salad?

David nudged Gin a bit harder. Leslie-Lou ordered a kids dog and water. David and Gin order two dogs with the works, cheese fries and cokes, and then move to find a table on the outside patio…Leslie-Lou rushes off to the restroom to "powder her nose."

Gin: Pop…why is she here?

David: Leslie-Lou? I told you about her…isn't she nice?

Gin: We've been back from Phili for two days…couldn't you give it a week before making me meet another one…

David: (looking smug) Another one, huh? Have there been that many?

Gin: Too many to count, Pop.

David: Well, Honey, when you got it, you got it…but I really like this one…and I think you will too.

Gin: I already don't like her.

David: You don't even know her.

Gin: You don't even know her…

David threw her a look as Leslie-Lou sauntered back to the table. Gin sat becoming even more annoyed as LL directed all conversation towards David for the rest of lunch…Gin wished she had someone to commiserate with.

The next day at school everyone was mandated to attend the Welcome Assembly in the school auditorium. Lyn was seated with Becky and a couple of other girls from her class a few rows in front of Gin. Every now and then a balled up piece of paper flew down, hitting Lyn and her friends. When Lyn looked behind her all she saw was Gin looking innocent and listening attentively to the Principal's speech, but Lyn wasn't dumb. She knew who was throwing papers at her! So, when all the new students were called to the floor Lyn timed it just perfectly and stuck her foot out into the aisle as Gin walked by and tripped her…Gin stumbled and almost fell as the other girls began to laugh…but when Gin looked back towards Lyn, she was just sitting in her seat looking innocent. After everybody applauded the new students and the Principal presented the rules to the students, the girls went back to class. As Gin and Lyn walked out of the auditorium the Principal grabbed each of them by the arm. He looked from one to the other – Gin to Lyn with a surprised look covering her face. Then she smiled at them.

Principal: Oh! …I didn't know we had twins here this year…

Gin and Lyn looked at each other with wide eyes.

Gin: (shaking her head) We're not twins…

Lyn looked Gin up and down.

Lyn: (Sour look on her face) We're not even sisters…

Principal: (looked confused.) Not related?

Gin & Lyn: No.

Principal: Oh.

Mrs. Owens, the Principal, couldn't take her eyes off the girls. They must be related in some way! They look so much alike. But thoughts of the girls fade away as she was greeted by a new teacher on the way back to her office. They fell into conversation and all thoughts of the "twins" are forgotten.

Gin: Did you hear that? Principal Owens thought that lame princess was my sister…as if!

Tammy: (looking over at Lyn and shrugging) You guys do kinda look alike…

Gin: No...we don't! I look nothing like…

Gin catches a glimpse of Lyn's side profile…and that familiar turned-up nose.

Gin: (slowly and a bit unsure)… her.

Tammy looked closely at Gin.

Tammy: Green eyes, huh? I'll see what color hers are…

Gin: (Scoffing) They're black…like her soul…

The girls laughed and pushed each other playfully as they headed back to class.

On Friday, Lyn headed for the front of school as soon as the bell rang but Becky caught up to her, and slid her arm through Lynn's turning her around…

Becky: …and where do you think you're going?

Lyn: Going to meet my driver…I've Mandarin lessons in 30 minutes…

Becky: Mandarin on a Friday? No…no…no…everyone goes to watch the basketball team on Friday…they're one of the best in the city.

Lyn: (Cringing) Basketball…

Becky: Come on! You've got to root on the team!

Lyn is dragged to the game against her will and sits, bored out of her mind…studying her Mandarin, waiting for the game to begin. Soon the music plays and the players are announced one at a time…Lyn is half paying attention when she hears…

Announcer: Number 11…Virginia "Gin" Addison…

Lyn's head immediately snapped up…

Lyn: (to Becky) What did he just say?

Becky: (clapping along to the music; shrugs) I don't know…

Lyn: Pinky-lee…is an…Addison?

Becky: (Shrugging) I don't know…

Lyn squinted her eyes to read the back of Gin's jersey and sure enough, there it is in black and white, ADDISON. Lyn's heart began to race…she felt dizzy and short of breath. This girl…who looks so much like her (people say)…has the same last name as her father!? What was going on here? She couldn't be…no, there's no way…her mother would have told her…right!? Well…who knows, she's always suspected something…she's got to talk to Gin…and soon…

After the game that night, Lyn pushed through the crowd, spotted Gin…and headed straight to her. She had an idea! Lynn pushed Gin as hard as she could, Gin landed against a wall with a bang. Gin charged towards Lyn with anger, the two girls crashed into each other, Lyn wrapped her arms around Gin as Gin landed a painful punch to her ribs…the two were tangled up until Principal Owens rushed over and pulled them apart…

Principal: Alright…that's enough! You both have Saturday detention! Be here at 8 am tomorrow morning!

As the girls are pulled apart, it's as if everything happened in… what seemed like slow motion…they stared into each other's eyes…Gin's filled with anger, Lyn's filled with curiosity, she held onto her sore ribs and winked at Gin…Gin reacted with confusion. What the hell was going on? Why did she keep getting wrapped up with this girl? And why did she seem so familiar?

The next morning the girls showed up and were placed on opposites sides of the room in the three-hour Saturday detention. After a bit when everyone settled down and the supervising teacher started to doze, Lyn moved closer to Gin.

Lyn: Psssst!

Gin ignored her.

Gin: Psssst!

Lyn: Hey! Virginia…

Gin: Shhhhh…and that's not my name!

Lyn: Gin…

Gin: (whispering, annoyed) Why…are….you…talking…to…me…?

Lyn: Move over a chair…sit in front of me.

Keeping her eyes on the teacher Gin did as she was told. Lyn talked to her in a low voice.

Lyn: Look…sorry, about the fight, but I had to talk to you.

Gin: O…k…you've got lips, you've got a tongue, what do you think they're there for?

Lyn: Away from everyone I mean.

Gin: Well, you got your wish…personally I'd have rather met in a nice quiet café where I wouldn't be jeopardizing my spot on the team, but it's all about you I guess…

Lyn: They won't kick you off…You're the best player they have…(pauses) You're awesome!

Gin: (Shrugging shyly) Thanks? (clears her throat) why are you being so nice to me?

Lyn: Because I think…

Gin: You do? So far I've seen no evidence of that…

Lyn: (rolls her eyes) I think we might be sisters…

Gin: (Shocked…loud) sisters!?

The supervising teacher opened her eyes and glared at the girls.

Teacher: What's going on over there?

Gin & Lyn: Nothing.

Teacher: Move apart, two seats between each of you.

Gin moved back to her seat until the teacher started to doze again…the girls kept glancing at each other, comparing their features. The more Gin looked at Lyn, the more she saw it…they weren't just sisters…they were twins…as identical as you could get, right down to the tiny freckle beneath their right eye…except for their hairstyles, it was uncanny. After a bit, Gin moved in front of Lyn again.

Lyn: On the count of three answer me…quietly!

Gin nodded.

Lyn: What's your dad's first name?

The girls reply at the same time…

Lyn & Gin: (whispering) David…

Lyn: (whispering) Where did your parents meet?

Gin: (whispering) Blue Moon Investigations

Lyn: (whispering) Blue Moon Detective Agency

Lyn: (whispering) What did your mother do before she worked at Blue Moon?

Gin: (whispering) She was a model.

Lyn: (whispering) Model…

Lyn: (whispering) When's your birthday?

Lyn & Gin: (whispering) March 3rd, 1988

Gin gasped and spun around…the girls looked at each other as tears welled up in their eyes.

Gin: Why…why don't we know about each other?

Lyn: (shrugs) I don't know…

Gin: So you live with mom?

Lyn: Mother, yeah…and you live with Dad?

Gin: Pop, yeah…Why would they keep us apart…what assholes.

Lyn: Selfish assholes.

Lyn & Gin: I'm dying to meet him / her.

The girls didn't know why their parents would keep them a secret from each other, but they were both afraid that if Maddie and David discovered that they had found each other, they would find a way to keep them apart…Lyn was sure Maddie would move them back to France. Gin was sure she'd be sent back to her old school. Yet, both the girls really wanted to get to know the parent they missed.

After Saturday detention the girls became inseparable at school and chatted on the phone all night. Their friends were amazed at how fast things had changed, but Gin and Lyn let Tammy and Becky in on their discovery. The four of them ate lunch together and talked about the plan the twins had concocted…

Gin: So…Lyn and I are going to switch places Friday…I'm going to live with Ma and Lyn's going to live with Pop.

Tammy: How are you going to do that? I mean, yeah, you look alike, but your hair…

Gin looked at Lyn.

Gin: Lyn's gotta cut and dye her hair…can we use your bathroom tomorrow after school, Becky?

Becky practically has her own wing at home.

Becky: Yah, of course…but…you guys act so different too, aren't your parents going to notice?

Lyn: We've been comparing notes all week. I've been memorizing Motown hits and learning which stooge is Curly, Larry and Moe… and Gin's learning how to use a knife and a fork…

Gin nudged Lyn hard and everyone laughed. The next night, the girls met at Becky's house. Carefully, Gin cut and dyed Lyn's hair to look just like her own. Afterwards, the girls stood to look in the mirror. Their mouths dropped - they were in awe of how identical they really were. Becky and Tammy didn't know which was which. The girls found it hysterical and talked about how they could take tests for each other at school. Lyn is great in English and Gin loves science, subjects the other hates.

When Lyn got home, Maddie was still out so she didn't see her mother that night.

Neither girl could sleep. They were excited and nervous and were mentally planning for the big switch the following day.

All day at school the girls could barely concentrate on their school work and kept whispering to one another during class. Their teachers were not amused. Slowly, the school day came to a welcome end.

After school on Friday the girls stood together before walking outside to their new lives, they held hands and reminded each other about last minute details of the new worlds they were entering.

Gin: Remember, take out the garbage tonight…

Lyn: (Cringing) Garbage…

Gin: …and feed the dogs, Phili's the big one, he gets a cup of food from the blue bag, and Clue is the small one, he gets a can of wet from the fridge. Oh, and the cat, Hayes…but let Pop feed her…she'll scratch you.

Lyn: Hayes!?

Gin: Yeah, Pop gave her to Ma as a wedding gift and she's still around…but she's grumpy and mean so don't mess with her. Pop's the only one she lets get close to her…sometimes.

Lyn: And remember…you have Mandarin at 5…Piano at 6 and you and you Mother are going to the Opera at 8…wear the light blue dress.

Gin: (Cringing) A dress? Opera? Eww.

Lyn: …and don't bother Mother before 10am on Saturday, it's her only day to rest.

Gin: Right…

Suddenly from outside the building there are the sounds of loud music and a car horn honking…

Gin: That's Pop…have fun, sis…

The girls hugged tightly and cross their fingers as they pulled apart.

Lyn: Love you. Have a…good…well, Uh. Enjoy meeting Mother…

Gin: Hell, ya I will!

Lyn looked at Gin with a serious expression on her face…

Lyn: Get in character, Gin…otherwise this isn't going to work.

Gin: (Straightening up) I most certainly will enjoy myself with Mother.

Lyn raced off eagerly, she opened the door to David's car and tried to hop in like she knew Gin would. David leaned towards her with sparkling green eyes just like her own and a lopsided grin… seeing her father for the first time left her frozen.

David: Hi-ya, Champ!

Lyn sat in the car trying not to stare but taking him all in. She wanted to throw her arms around him but held back.

David: (Making a static sound into his hands) Earth to Gin…it's Friday…I see an ice cream in your future.

Lyn just sat there staring at him.

David: (Taking her backpack from her hands) Hellloooooo!?

Lyn: (Snapping out of it) Oh…hello…Father…

David: (Recoiling) Father…Is this what we're doing today? Playing it formal? Fine. (British accent) Ello, Love…would you mind buckling up your seatbelt so we can get our royal asses out of here…

Lyn buckled up but couldn't find her voice; her tongue felt swollen and dry. David threw her a grin as he cranked up the music and sped off. Lyn couldn't take her eyes off him.

Meanwhile…

Lyn's driver pulled up to school and exited the town car to open the door and take her bags, but by the time he got there Gin had already dove head first into the back seat and was busy pressing all the buttons.

Marvin: (Leaning in) Hello, Miss.

Gin: (Not looking) Hey…

Marvin's taken aback…

Marvin: Miss…what…did you do to your hair?

Gin: Why? Are you a driver or an expert on fashion?

Marvin pursed his lips.

Marvin: Do you have your snack?

Gin: Naw, I wanna stop at McDonalds.

Marvin: Excuse me?

Gin: McDonalds, you know…the golden arches!

Marvin: But, your Chinese lesson, Miss…

Gin: Chinese? (Laughing) No way in hell I'm going to learn that!

Marvin: Excuse me?

Gin: What's your name? Maxim?

Marvin: Marvin, Miss.

Gin: (Leaning back and sticking her pointer finger in the air) Change of plans…

After insisting that Marvin take her through the McDonalds drive through and then past her old school where she hung out of the sunroof and flipped off her old classmates…she directed him to drive around town just so she could relax and enjoy the ultra-comfortable town car. After a half hour or so, Gin asked Marvin to drop her off at her mother's modeling agency. Marvin was worried that Ms. Hayes would be angry at him but Gin promised him that she would take full responsibility for skipping all her lessons.

"Wow!" Gin mumbled to herself as she entered the reception area. This was class. She approached the receptionist nervously. She hoped that she wouldn't screw up the charade.

Receptionist: Hey Lyn! Awesome hair!

Gin: Thanks! Where's my Ma? (Clearing throat) I mean, is my mother here?

Receptionist: I'll page her…

Gin walked around the lobby touching everything and staring wide-eyed at the fantastic view through the wall to wall windows. Suddenly her eyes spot; a vision of beauty walking towards her.

Maddie was wearing an off-white wrap dress; her shoulder length hair was parted to the side. Gin looked at her mother for the first time. Her heart was beating wildly in her chest – OMG, Gin thought in awe. She was even more gorgeous than she'd imagined. Maddie seemed to be walking in slow motion. Gin couldn't help but stare. Then suddenly, Maddie came to a dead stop as she stared at her daughter. What the HELL? She was livid.

Maddie: MADOLYN IRMA HAYES! What on earth have you done to your hair!?

Gin ignored the question as she ran to her mother and wrapped herself around her.

Gin: Mother!

Maddie looked down into a sea of pink spikes, mortified.

Maddie: LYN! Your beautiful blonde hair…

Gin looked up into her mother's eyes and saw blue daggers staring down at her…She stepped back nervously.

Gin: (Touching her hair) I'm sorry mother…it was kind of…spontaneous.

Receptionist: I think her hair looks awesome, Ms. Hayes.

Other models strolled out of the back room and saw Gin…they all love her hair.

Maddie looked more carefully at the new look and softened a bit, maybe it was fashion forward.

Maddie: Spontaneous, huh? (taking Gin's chin between her fingers.) I guess it's ok, but you should have asked me first.

Gin: I know, mother, you're right…well, it'll will grow back soon. So…anyway, (Excited) Can I see your office?

Maddie: My office? Well…sure, it hasn't changed much since you were here last week, but…let's go back…

Maddie and Gin walked back to her office. As they entered the room, Maddie's phone buzzed. It was an important call that she had to take. Gin walked around the room eyeing everything. She saw photos of Lyn, Lyn with Maddie, Maddie with famous people. As her mother continued her call, Lyn made herself comfortable in Maddie's office chair. As she listened to her mother's lilting voice: Gin began to spin round and round in the chair almost making herself dizzy.

As Maddie spoke to her client, she kept looking at her daughter spinning around in her chair. With her sparkling green eyes and lopsided grin, Lyn suddenly reminded her of her David – who loved to spin around in his chair. He needed a new one every few months or so, Maddie remembered with a pang. She pushed those thoughts aside.

Maddie: Such immature behavior. Stop you're going to break the chair! (Maddie realized her voice was too harsh so she spoke softer) Lynnie…all this California sunshine must be giving you energy, I've never seen you like this…come on, we'd better go home and change, we've got reservations at Lé Boehme and then the Opera at 8.

Gin: (Dizzy) The Opera? Old fat women singing at an octave only dogs can hear!?

Maddie: You're joking…what's gotten into you today? You love Opera.

Gin: (Smirking) Oh…yeah, sure…I'm just joking, Mother…I can't wait…I mean, I get to spend the evening with you so I really don't care where we go.

Maddie looked closer at the smirk that covered Lynn's face. What the hell...

Of course Gin lived in a mansion with David all her life but Lyn's home with Maddie was spectacular. It was so neat and clean. She thought of the untidiness of her own home and grimaced. They used to have a housekeeper but her dad had let her go when Gin got old enough to do chores around the house. But just like her dad, she often forgot to do her chores so the house sometimes looked like a tornado had swept through. That had never bothered her before she saw how her mother and sister lived.

When Gin entered Lyn's room she had to laugh. It looked like a princess lived there. Pink and frilly…NOT Gin's style and all! Gin saw the blue dress laid on the bed and almost gagged! Ewww. She hadn't worn a dress since she her Confirmation 2 years ago! And this dress was so girly girly it made her guts clench. Oh well, she had to act like Lynn who seemed to love girly stuff. Gin walked into Lynn's private bathroom and was impressed. Nice! A huge tub and a walk in shower. Damn! I can get used to this she figured. After a long, hot shower –Gin gingerly put on the blue dress. Lynn had also left her a matching bag and shoes. Shaking her head, Gin left the room feeling like a Barbie doll. But the great thing was that she was actually going to spend the night with her Mother. She was almost giddy with joy.

Meanwhile…

When Lyn walked into the mini mansion she knew right away she was not at home. Her home was pristine while this was...a mess! Shoes were thrown haphazardly by the front door. Sports equipment seemed to be everywhere! And when two rambunctious dogs ran to the door and jumped on her father she was frightened. She wasn't used to dogs! But the dogs just smelled her and looked her over. Lynn knew that they knew she wasn't Gin! But David didn't notice the dogs almost ignored his daughter. Lynn followed her father's lead, and kicked off her shoes and left them by the door. She then tossed her jacket on a nearby chair. Being not so neat was almost fun!

David went upstairs to shower reminding her to feed the dogs, throw out the garbage and get ready to go out to eat at 8.

Lyn was still afraid of the dogs. She had never been in such close proximity to animals and she had no clue how to care for them. She tried to remember Gin's instructions, but soon the food bowls were a mess! They filled to the brim with a mixture of wet and dry food because she couldn't remember which dog ate dry, wet…or whatever. She was near tears.

Lyn: (whispering to the little one) Philadelphia! Eat! (to the to the big one) Clue! Come here! Neither dog moved.

Now the trash. Yuck! Lyn searched around in cupboards for the garbage. In her house there had always been a garbage chute that trash disappeared into…she's never actually had to touch any of it herself.

David entered the kitchen fresh out of the shower wearing dress pants and no shirt. He stopped whistling when he saw the dog bowls and the trash overflowing in the pail.

David: Whatcha lookin' for sweet pea?

Lyn: Ummm…the garbage?

David: Uh-huh…nice try…

He looked at the dogs who were staring at him and then looked again at the overflowing bowls.

David: (To dogs) What's she doing to you two? Hey Gin…did you get enough sleep last night?

Lyn: (channeling Gin.) Duh.

David: (rolling his eyes) then what the hell is your excuse for this (Gesturing to the dog food bowls).

Lyn tried to look innocent. She shrugged.

Lyn: It's really not my thing.

David: If you think for a minute that by screwing up all your chores, you'll get out of doing them you are sorely mistaken missy…that's not going to fly around here.

Lyn: Have you looked into getting a maid? In home care is rather affordable these days, Daddy.

David: Is that what you're learning at that fancy shmancy school? And…Daddy? You haven't called me that since you were 2…

Lyn: Oh…well, yeah, I guess a lot of my friends have drivers…maids…

David threw her a look.

David: I don't care how much money I made, I believe in getting my hands dirty…driving my own car, taking care of my own house…I wouldn't want some stranger poking around.

Lyn: (trying to remember what Gin calls him) …they become like family, Pappy.

David chuckled.

David: Pappy?

He walked towards his daughter…

David: What's with you anyway, you got a fever?

David put his hand on Gin's forehead, but since Lynn was not used to being touched much…especially by a man, she jumped away. David looked at her confused…he and his daughter were normally very close and affectionate.

Lyn: Nah, I'm fine. I'm gonna go take a bath...

Lyn worked hard at not speaking too properly…the white cat eyed her carefully, she seemed onto her…

David: (Making a face) A bath? …you were barely showering regularly a few months ago…

Lyn: Well, I'm into baths now…

David: (Scratching his head) Yeah…sure peanut, whatever works…you'll have to use the tub in my room. I'll let you off the hook and clean up down here, seems like you could use a little help.

Lyn started to leave the kitchen when suddenly...

David: Hey, Sport!

Lyn turned around as David hurled one of her shoes at her… The shoe hit her in the chest, she flinched and grabbed the sore spot.

David: …pick up after yourself, remember!?

Lyn: La Douleur! …I mean, ouch!

David: Ah, come oh…you could have caught that easily…you are off your game, sister.

He tossed the other shoe to her softer, she missed catching that one too…David shook his head.

Lyn scurried out of the kitchen and upstairs afraid she's not acting enough like Gin.

David sorted out the dogs' food and put Hayes in the backyard for her nightly neighborhood prowl after he took out the garbage.

An hour later David is pacing downstairs, it's 7:30pm and "Gin" is still not out of the tub. Finally, he marchesd up the spiral stairs and tried the handle to his bedroom, it was locked. He pounded on the door and called Gin's name.

David: VIRGINIA AGNES ADDISON!

After about five minutes, Lyn came out in a robe, a towel on her head and a green mask on her face.

David: What are you doing!?

Lyn: I was bathing, Father!

David: For over an hour?

Lyn: …and?

David: …and …and? And…we have to be the hell out of her in 30 minutes…

Lyn: Would you kindly not curse at me!?

David: Curse!? You call that cursing!? You're gonna hear cursing if you don't get your ass out of there and get moving…

Lyn stomped off and slammed her bedroom door. David ruffled his hair, entered his room and walked into the bathroom…there were candles all around the tub, the lights were dimmed and tons of beauty products lined the shelf. He hadn't seen the bathroom in this state since…well, since Maddie lived there – he got that familiar pang in his stomach, the one he'd pushed down for years. Then, it finally dawned on David…he's was absolutely sure of what was going on, it was so obvious, he knew it would happen one day, he just thought they'd both be better prepared for it…his baby had entered puberty. A feeling of sadness overcame him as he thought about his other daughter, the twin he didn't know…she'd be changing so much and he was missing it all…if he could only spend some time with her…

Meanwhile…

Gin and Maddie were sitting at Lé Boehme just after 7pm, when the waiter was set to take their orders Maddie ordered her meal in French as usual, but when it was Gin's turn she stumbled over the French words like it was the first time she'd ever seen them (it was).

Maddie: (mortified) Darling, speak properly please. (To waiter) She speaks perfect French…she grew up in Paris for god's sake.

The waiter looked at Maddie unamused.

Gin tried again, but just decided to point at some random food item. Frowning, the stuck-up waiter headed to the kitchen.

Maddie: (Nodded with approval) Rabbit! Your favorite.

Gin almost choked on her water…RABBIT! Disgusting…how was she going to eat that? Boy, Lyn and Maddie's life was sure different from her and Pops, she could really use a burger right about now…but Gin was loving having her mother's full attention and asked her every question she's ever wanted to know about her. Maddie was pleased that her daughter was finally taking an interest in her!

In an adjoining room David, Leslie-Lou and Gin had just been sat at a table and perused the menu.

Leslie-Lou: Where is our waiter? I can't read any of this…I need a menu in English.

David: This is a French restaurant, honey…remember, you said you wanted to experience some culture.

Leslie-Lou: Culture's one thing, but I'm not going to end up with snails and duck liver…no sir, I want to read words in English so I know what I'm putting in my mouth, I read in Bon Appetite magazine that those French eat thing strangest things…now…where is that waiter!

Lyn: (mindlessly perusing the menu) Actually, French cuisine is quite sophisticated, escargot and pate are delicacies…this menu isn't exactly what a you'd find in France, but it'll do…

David: (scoff) …she spends a week at French school and suddenly she's Julia Child!

Lyn makes a small gesture and the waiter quickly approaches the table looking bewildered...he'd know that pink hair anywhere.

Waiter: Madam…you are at zi wrong tableau…

Everyone falls silent looking confused.

Waiter: I just served zi rabbit a moment ago…

Lyn panics for a moment catching on that Gin and Maddie are probably somewhere nearby…but Leslie-Lou's reaction covers for her…

Leslie-Lou: Rabbit!? I will not eat Thumper…have you got fettuccini alfredo here?

Lyn rolls her eyes and begins speaking in perfect French to the waiter…gesturing, pointing and waving all over the menu…She orders Beef Wellington for David, Rabbit for herself and kids fish fingers for Leslie-Lou along with some unique appetizers she wants David to try…Leslie is in awe, David's suspicious…

Leslie-Lou: Darlin'…those words, those sounds…were you really talkin' to him in a whole other language?

David: …yeah…Gin…I know you're in a great school, but fluent in a week?

Lyn: (Nervously laughs) I was just making it up, Daddy…who knows what he'll bring us to eat…

Lyn sips her sparkling water and peers around the room…no sign of Maddie and Gin…

After an interesting meal to say the least, Maddie and Gin went to the Opera and sat through the longest musical performance Gin had ever been to…in fact, shortly into the second half, she fell asleep. Later that evening when they got home…

Maddie: (Kissed Gin on the forehead) Well, Goodnight love, I'm heading up to bed…

Gin: So early?

Maddie: Early, honey, it's past ten!

Gin: I know, but I thought we'd watch a movie or something.

Maddie: A movie!? At this hour? You were already falling asleep in the theater!

Maddie kissed "Lyn" on the forehead and headed up to her bedroom to follow her normal beauty routine. When she came out of the dressing room, she heard the TV on in her bedroom. Confused she opened the door to find "Lyn" sitting up in bed with a bowl of popcorn flipping around the channels

Maddie: Lynnie! No eating in the bed, you know the rules, what's gotten into you.

Gin: (Keeps her eyes on the TV) Don't worry, Mother…I'll brush off any crumbs. Come on, the movie's about to start!

Maddie: Movie!? I thought we talked about this

Gin: (Shoving popcorn in her mouth) Yeah, I know…but it's Friday Ma, relax…

Maddie looked at the TV and saw that the Exorcist was about to start.

Maddie: I'm not watching that!

Gin: Come on Goldilocks…I'm right here if you get scared.

Maddie: (Shocked) Goldilocks…why did you call me that!?

Gin: (Eyes Maddie) You're the only one with golden hair now, Mother…so it seems fitting.

Maddie: (annoyed) Well, I don't like being called that…so please…don't!

Gin feels bad that she's upset her mom.

Gin: Sorry, Mama…

Gin slumped down in the bed and looked upset. Maddie looked at her daughter and felt bad. After all, Maddie had hoped they'd spend more time together and get closer…

Maddie: Oh…well, I mean, it's ok…the term Goldilocks just reminds me of…

Gin: …of…?

Maddie: …oh, I don't know, just those stupid fairytales we're all fed growing up!

Gin: Ok.

Maddie softened and glanced at the TV movie...

Maddie: Alright…well, maybe we can try it…here, move closer…

Gin's frown turned into a smile as Maddie climbed into the bed…the two of them huddled together and Maddie hid her face on Gin's shoulder during the scary parts. Shortly after the movie ended they both fell asleep…Gin nestled as close to her mother as she could enjoying the scent of vanilla and lavender.

In the morning, Maddie woke up first and at first didn't realize that her daughter had slept with her the entire night. Maddie had never allowed that before – since Lyn was a toddler and had a nightmare. She raised Lyn to be independent and brave and didn't want her to feel the need to depend on anyone but herself. But as she looked at her daughter, she smiled. It had felt nice having her warm body next to her. But of course, she would not make this sleeping arrangement an everyday occurrence!

Maddie sat up ready to start the day, but spent a few more minutes staring at Lyn. When she turned her face in sleep Maddie's heart stopped – for a second she looked exactly like her father. She shook that thought out of her head. David Addison the scourge of her existence.

11 Years ago

Maddie opened the summons slowly – her blood ran cold when she had seen it had come from California and had been delivered signed receipt. It had been 2 weeks since she had left David and taken Lynn to France – and for those 2 weeks not a day went by that David hadn't called her threatening her if she didn't return to the US with Lynn. Maddie kept hanging up on him but that hadn't deterred him. David had hired a lawyer so Maddie had no choice but to hire one too. Her lawyer frowned upon what she had done by separating identical twins but Maddie assured him that she intended to bring the other baby to France with her – at least that was the story she was going to use to scare David into leaving her alone! Of course, she missed Gin but in her bones, Maddie knew that this was the best thing to do for her, David and the girls. But she had to convince David or she would have to scare him into leaving Lynn with her.

The summons was from David's lawyer suing for custody of both girls. Maddie put her head in her hands as she dialed her lawyer's number which she now knew by heart. Maddie's lawyer told her he would sue David for full custody and she being the mother would surely win. But now that she was making a name for herself in France she knew that this custody suit would be plastered all over the news and put her in a bad light. She needed to scare David into capitulation. Maddie realized she was being cold and mean but she really felt it was best for all of them.

David Addison paced around his office staring with fright at his lawyer.

John Jones (lawyer): Calm down David.

David (running his fingers through his already messy hair): That bitch wants my girls! She can't have them!

John: You know that if you drop the custody case then she will drop it too and you will be able to keep Virginia. But if you continue with the custody case there is a good chance that you will lose both babies.

David (shaking his head): Soooo either I lose one of my babies or both? (His eyes were green ice). He hated Maddie at that moment. What a cold witch she really was…he should have left that broad where he found her, penniless and alone!

Maddie was glad that David had finally dropped his custody suit and dropped off the face of the Earth. Which she was delighted about – more than delighted…she should have listened to her instincts about that slithering snake in the grass from the beginning and been smart enough to walk away!

Lyn left for school on Monday morning after an interesting weekend, Maddie sat at the kitchen island with a cup of tea. What was it about her daughter recently that reminded her so much of HIM? Was puberty bringing out all the Addison traits that Maddie had tried so hard to mine out of her daughter? Maddie wondered how Virginia was doing being raised by David? Was it right of her to leave a little girl with such a crude, immature scalliwag like David Addison? Oh, Maddie knew that David loved his daughter(s) and would try hard to be a good dad but she couldn't see him raising a little girl properly, Maddie just hoped Virginia hadn't turned into a tomboy going around with phrases like "Do bees, be…do bears, bear…" – but she couldn't go back in time and change things. She could see David's lopsided smile and smirk in her mind's eye and she shivered. That MAN was still under her skin!

She had tried to push David Addison out of her mind and heart years ago. Maddie sipped her tea as her thoughts began to race back to that time in her life that she had tried so hard to forget!

As soon as they had sex, Maddie knew that it was a mistake. She was not supposed to be with a man like David! He was way too crude, drank way too much and had the eye for the ladies. For weeks Maddie had tried to stop whatever was going on between them. Their "relationship" was a dirty movie. All they did was have sex – over and over. Maddie hated herself for being weak for David. She couldn't control the whirlpool of emotions and desire she felt for him and that scared the Hell out of her. Secretly, she had fled to Chicago to try and think about what she wanted in her life. David or no David? It had been a very long 3 months. Discovering she was pregnant with a child that may or may not be David's added to her turmoil. But finally, she had decided to head home and see where things stood with David. But...

Til this day Maddie couldn't truly explain what had led her to marry Walter Bishop! A man she had met on the train back to LA after her exodus to Chicago. Her fear of the way she felt about David had turned her into a basket case. Maddie had known she had made a huge mistake as soon as she had seen David again after being away from him for months. She had used Walter as a shield, but it had exploded in her face. But after the annulment and a big of begging on her part, David had agreed to try again. They were happy until she had lost the baby. Even after all this time, Maddie still felt the pain of that loss.

It hadn't helped her emotional state that David had done a disappearing act soon after the loss of the son she had so desperately wanted. Maddie had been sad and alone and David was not there for her. It seemed at the time that their relationship was dead and buried but once again they made up and began anew...But their anger and hurt clouded their reunion – often causing tensions and mood swings that neither was willing to discuss.

Little by little their relationship petered out leaving both hurt, confused, angry, and bitter. David was especially bitter and began to treat Maddie insensitively and at times mean….and that all came to a head when Maddie's cousin Annie popped into town.

Annie was everything Maddie was not – she was fun, happy, spontaneous and most of all she didn't hide the fact that she wanted David. At first, David figured he's just flirt with Maddie's cousin and maybe that would somehow break through the icy veneer Maddie had erected around herself. But one thing led to another and David had found himself way over his head. It was fun boinking Annie and it was fun seeing Maddie jealous but then David realized things had gone way too far with Annie when she began to talk about leaving her husband and moving to LA for good – David knew he had to end it. Despite everything, he knew he still was in love with Maddie Hayes and that her cousin was just a poor substitute for the woman he really wanted.

Maddie remembered how she had felt when she found David in bed with her cousin Annie! All the feelings for David she had tried to bury came rushing up to the surface making what was left of her shattered heart implode. Maddie became icier as David pulled away and began a relationship with Annie. Maddie had truly felt all alone in the world and had seriously thought of selling Blue Moon and moving overseas. But that was not to be….

When Maddie discovered how David had broken up with Annie she was disgusted but slowly once again David wormed his way into her life and heart. He begged her to forgive him. He told her that he only went with Annie to get a reaction from her. David seemed like a new man. He was mature, loving, and determined to win her back. After a few weeks of fighting her love for David Addison, Maddie finally surrendered to her feelings.

So, once again David and Maddie got back together. Their sex life was still hot and wild and lo and behold 4 months later Maddie found herself pregnant again – this time with twins! At first the couple was happy and their relationship was loving and calm. But after the twins were born and the colicky duo screamed night and day their shaky relationship began to crumble under the weak foundation.

Maddie and David were still crazy about each other, but their love was corrupted by the past. And although both were crazy about the identical twin girls who they had named Virginia and Madolyn – the twins constant crying and Maddie's postpartum moods began to destroy any chance of a happy ending.

Maddie sighed as she picked at a slice of toast. Her love for David Addison had scared her. She remembered the way he had made her lose control. When she was with him, Maddie had felt that she had no control over her body, her mind, her heart – her life. And their constant fighting and all the drama had worn her out. She knew that living one more day with that man would destroy her – so she had run.

Just like she had left for Chicago, Maddie had secretly disappeared. But this time she had left behind a baby daughter. How could she ever forgive herself? The year after Maddie had left David and Gin, she had struggled with a deep depression that had almost overwhelmed her. But she had to pull out of it and with the help of meds and counseling she had overcome her depression. But she had also put a coat of ice around her heart to shield her from ever feeling that overwhelming love again. Of course, she loved Lynn, but she had kept up a distance even with her.

Tears ran down Maddie's face as she thought about her other daughter. But before Maddie could spiral into that pit of darkness again, she wrapped the ice coat around her heart and went on with her day.

David: Hi…Lyn.

Lyn stopped dead in her track…he knew?

Lyn: Lyn (scoffed) who's Lyn?

David help up the newspaper article in his hand.

David: I'm a detective, remember?

David and Lyn both chuckle and she runs into David's arms…they hug so tight and tears spring to both of their eyes.

Lyn: Father! I've missed you so much…

David: I've missed you too, honey…please don't ever think there was a day that went by that I didn't think about you or want to reach out.

Lyn: I know, Daddy, but you and Mother are so stupid!

David: (Laughs through tears) I know…you're right, you're right.

He looks into his daughter's eyes…

David: So…you and Gin…

Lyn: We found each other and knew instantly…well, almost…

Lyn went on to tell David the whole story about how she and Gin found each other. Later, they called Gin and made a plan…

Maddie didn't understand why her daughter insisted she meet her at Blue! She tried not to think about how it was always her and David's go to restaurant when they were together. The place was a mixture of different foods for different palates – it served everything from cheeseburgers and fries to steak tartare and beef wellington. Perfect for her and HIM. Unwanted memories ran over as she entered the restaurant. They had changed the décor a bit and it looked more modern, but the place was still familiar. Maddie sighed deeply. She had just arrived from LAX after a short trip to Vegas and she was bone tired. All she wanted to do was get into a hot bubble bath and rest her weary bones. She sighed, sometimes she felt so old – she shook her head to pull herself out of the funk she had been battling for days and strode into the well-lit restaurant and looked around for Lyn.

David didn't know how he was going to deal with this situation. Just the idea of being in the same country as Maddie Hayes again left a bitter taste in his mouth, much less the same restaurant, but he knew he and Maddie had to finally find a way to be mature adults…for them.

Suddenly, the restaurant door swung open and just like that all of David's animosity that surrounded their family over the past ten year left him as he stared at the vision that had just arrived. Maddie strolled into the restaurant and David's jaw dropped, he was transported back in time to the first time he saw her. How could he have forgotten the effect she always had on him? How could he forget her beauty and grace? His stomach filled with butterflies as his heart pounded so hard he thought it would beat out of his chest. As he stood up to wave her over their eyes met – green on blue – for the first time in 10 years.

Maddie thought she was dreaming when she saw a slightly balding man sitting at the table with Lyn and – could it be Gin? - but when he stood up to beckon her over, Maddie thought her legs would give out - they had turned to jelly. DAVID!? What was she doing here with…both…twins? What was going on? She couldn't help it as her eyes drank him in. Still handsome as ever – and his body was even better if that was possible. She felt something shift inside her that she had long since buried and that frightened her. A part of her wanted to turn around and run out of the restaurant but a stronger part needed to see her daughters! Her heart lurched as she looked at the two girls – identical. How had they met? Maddie had couldn't comprehend what was going on – it felt like a dream - but she finally felt at peace – her heart and soul were unbroken after so many years!

Maddie couldn't take her eyes off the twins as she approached the table. She sat down in the chair next to Lyn? Gin? Maddie shook her head,

Maddie: What on earth is going on? How did you two meet?"

Maddie had so many questions!

Maddie: I knew there was something different about you…

she stared at one of the girls who shook her head so she turned to the other…

Maddie: (shrugged) so who is who?

Both girls laughed,

Lyn: I'm Lyn Mother!

Gin: Gin here, Mom!

David and Maddie were stunned that the girls had pulled the switch off. David waved toward the girls.

David: So, start talking! Your mother needs answers!

Lynn and Gin looked at each other then giggled. Gin started first -The girls explained everything from the beginning as David and Maddie tried not to stare at one another. Both could feel the electricity at the table even after all these years…but they weren't getting off that easy for their past decisions…

Gin looked at her parents with a scowl.

Gin: How could you do that?"

Lynn: (nodded in agreement), how could you keep us apart?

Gin's eyes were cold,

Gin: that was so mean!

David gestured toward Maddie, his eyes as cold as Gin's,

David: ask Mother Dearest!

Maddie's eyes turned into dark blue marbles as she stared at David as she put her hands up in defense.

Maddie: Let me explain.

A smirk ran over David's face, he shifted in his seat.

David: Oh good, I'd like to hear this, too.

Maddie hadn't forgotten how she had itched to smack that smirk off of his face and how often she actually had done it!

Maddie: Well, as you probably noticed already,

she glared at David,

Maddie: …your father and I are like oil and water. We are entirely different people with entirely different ways of life!

Gin glared at both parents,

Gin: But you made us! So, you must have gotten along sometime!

David laughed,

David: yeah well, we never had trouble in that way...

Maddie was mortified,

Maddie: David! Not in front of the girls!

He was so crude!

David: (chuckles), I think they know how babies are made Maddie. Well, Gin does anyway! God knows how you've explained the birds and the bees to poor, Lynnie…(he winks at his daughter) I'll explain it all later, honey…

His smirk widened.

Maddie threw him a look of disdain,

Maddie: I'm sure she's been subjected to your floozies enough to learn about the birds and the bees! (she looks sympathetically at Gin) not all men objectify women like that, darling…

(overlapping dialogue)

"I thought that I was done with your insults and nastiness 10 years ago! You are the coldest, the most arrogant woman I have ever met! Once we get things settled with the girls – I don't ever want to lay my eyes on you again!"

"I thought I was done with your vulgarity and vile humor 10 years ago! You are the crudest, most arrogant man I have ever met! The girls will see each other now all the time but – I don't ever want to lay my eyes on you again!"

The girls watched their parents with their mouths open and green eyes wide. Wow! No wonder they separated! Gin and Lyn looked at each other speechless. It looked like their parents detested one another!

Forgetting the girls were at the same table and only wrapped up in each other - David and Maddie fell into the same pattern of years ago…

"Bitch!"

"Bastard!"

David threw her a nasty smirk,

David: Isn't this how the whole mess started?

Lyn began to tear up as Gin looked at her parents with distress,

Lyn: So we're a mess?"

Lynn spoke up with tears brimming in her eyes.

Gin: Look at you two! We're finally all together after 10 years and the first thing you do is fight!? No wonder you've done such horrible things to each other…and to us! We hate you for this!

Gin lashed out as she got up and ran away from the table with Lyn at her heels.

David and Maddie looked after the fleeing twins with mixed emotions. Both were happy that the twins were finally reunited but they were also worried and anxious over what it would mean to their relationship with their daughters.

David stood up to go after them, but Maddie grabbed his arm…

Maddie: let them go.

Maddie suggested.

Maddie: The girls are right…we've put them through enough…

David put his hand over hers.

David: …we've put each other through enough.

Maddie: We need to put the past in the past and talk about what comes next.

Both could feel the bolt of electricity from that one touch. They ignored it.

David sat back down with a sigh and shook his head.

David: What comes next? (He shrugged,) you tell me, Maddie! After all, it was your idea to split them up in the first place! And running away with your tail between your legs seems to be your MO."

Maddie glared at him,

Maddie: You're already getting worked up…are we going to continue to argue or can you put away your anger so we can discuss the situation rationally.

David glared back with icy green eyes,

David: ok let's discuss.

He put on his most innocent face, which came off as smug, and waiting for her to start.

Maddie wanted to slap that look of his face, but she counted to 10 and calmed her fury.

Maddie: Well, now that the girls have found each other, I doubt they will agree to be separated again.

David: Agree. (nodded his head) So…how about..they can live with me and visit you on the weekend.

Maddie: (Scoffs) oh no buster! (Maddie shook her head) how about…they can live with me! (She raised her voice.) I'm their mother!

David: and I am their father who raised Gin alone all these years without the help of nannies, maids, chefs, private planes!

David had done a bit of investigating of his own.

David: The girls belong with ME! I have time for them!

Maddie: No, me! I show them culture, expose them to the arts!

David: NO, me! I'm the sane one!

Maddie: NO! ME!" I'm the safe one!

Patrons dining nearby were staring and their dinner was getting ruined.

Gin and Lyn: Stop shouting!

Both Maddie and David were stopped in their tracks as their stern daughters stood over their table looking mortified. They glared at one another with icy eyes. But even through their anger both could feel old emotions bubbling under the surface of their animosity.

Gin: Mother…Father…no one's moving anywhere and no one's taking custody of both of us.

Lyn: That's right…Gin and I are staying where we are.

Gin: We like our lives, I like living with Pop and Lyn loves life with Mother

Lyn: Yes. In fact, the only thing that is going to change is, we are all going to be in each other lives now.

Maddie stared at David. Thank god they had these girls to set them straight.

Lyn: The only thing we ask is that you guys get some counseling to move past the past and start getting along.

Gin: Yeah…for us!

Lyn: I mean, come on…it's obvious to us…(gestures to those around them) and to everyone in here that you're crazy about each other.

Gin: You just have a funny way of showing it. But…maybe counseling will help you communicate better.

Maddie looked over at David with softer eyes. The years had been good to him. The man was still as gorgeous as ever and the dusting of gray on his sideburns made him look sexier if possible. She inwardly sighed as her heart began to palpitate in the way it always had when she was close to David Addison.

David stared at Maddie. Damn, the woman had only gotten better with age. A few small wrinkles were barely noticeable around her eyes but that didn't ruin the perfection of her face. Her skin was still rosy and clear and her hair still shiny and thick. And although David didn't want to look, he could see that her body was rounder and more curvaceous – and he couldn't stop the way his pants tightened when he was around Maddie Hayes…even more so after all these years!

David shifted in his seat,

David: Ok let's stop the name calling and try to act like the mature parents the girls deserve.

Maddie muttered sarcastically under her breath,

Maddie: yeah you're mature,

David: What did you say?

David wanted to know; he had heard her but wanted her to say it to his face.

Her fake smile appeared on her lips,

Maddie: I said yes we're mature,

She fibbed.

David threw some money on the table for the check,

David: Come on guys…let's get outta here and take a little tour.

Maddie looked at him curiously,

Maddie: Where?

David: Let's take the girls down memory lane around this city and show them where they come from…where it all began.

He ruffled Gin's…or was it Lyn's?...hair…

David: Come on, we'll get some ice cream along the way.

Lyn: Together?

Gin: All of us…as a family?

Maddie smiled at the girls excitement. David caught a glimmer of a tear in her eye.

Maddie: Why not? Yeah…let's go back to the beginning.

The four of them walk side by side to the restaurant door…David wrapped his arm around Maddie's waist along the way…

David: …sounds like a very good place to begin…again…

THE END!