Chapter 2 Moonchild Wildflower

Rory gave his hand one more squeeze before she let go. Jess and Sarah got into the SUV and drove over to the diner before stopping outside and deciding what to do.

Jess spoke first and said, "Rory and Finn have offered for us to stay with them at their suite in Finn's hotel in Hartford. She says it has 5 bedrooms so plenty of room for all of us. According to Rory the chef is doing a huge Thanksgiving dinner which we are invited too. April, Luke, Lorelai and William were planning on going to Hartford tomorrow and going swimming with Rory's family. Luke said we could go to the Dragonfly and Sookie would feed us. I am not looking to stay in this town. It would be too easy to run into Liz and TJ. But I am concerned about a 4 hour drive home with 3 littles and them having no dinner and sleeping the whole car ride and then being up all night. And who knows the last time Doula was actually fed. What do you think we should do? Thank you for standing by me just now. Your support meant everything to me. Sorry I think I am still in a little bit of shock that I was able to say all of that."

Sarah lovingly squeezed Jess' hand. She thought for a moment and then took Jess' phone and called Rory and said, "Hi! If it's not too much trouble and you wouldn't mind us crashing we would love to spend the night with you all. We are concerned about driving back home with 3 littles and them being hungry and up all night as we know they will nap in the car. Thank you for taking care of us. I think Jess may be in a little bit of shock over everything. Any chance you might have some extra suits with you for tomorrow? The boys would love a chance to go swimming."

Rory cheered quietly and said, "Finn will call right now and take care of everything. Just give your name to the front desk when you get there and they will give you a key. I will text you the hotel address. Yes I have extra and am happy to share. Mia, Finny and William would love that. See you back there tonight. Safe travels. You will not be allowed to pay for anything. Don't fight me on this one. You won't win. Please just take care of Jess. I am worried about him. This was a lot."

Sarah replied, "Ok. Thank you for everything. See you later." She then turned to Jess and said, "I think I should drive. You have just been through too much." They quickly swapped seats as Jess knew Sarah was right. Sarah programmed the gps to the address Finn sent her and they were on their way.

Rory hung up the phone and went and found Finn. Finn excused himself and went outside and made the proper phone calls. He set up for the 5 of them to have dinner in the dining room for a full Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings. He texted Jess the address of the hotel as well as the name of the manager in case they needed it. He texted that they had dinner reservations for the 5 of them downstairs whenever they were ready and not to fight him on any of it. That they were family and this is what family does. Finn even said make sure you try the creme brulee, It's to die for. Finn was thrilled they were going to stay. He was worried when they came to get the kids that it was a long drive for them to go back home tonight and it sounded like an emotional time. Finn knew Rory would fill him in on everything later tonight.

Rory, and Luke walked back inside. They called April and she walked back into the living room. Liz and TJ were still just standing there still in shock. Finn joined them after he finished his phone calls and nodded to Rory which made her smile.

TJ then began talking and asked, "Was I really that obnoxious about the air tights? I don't remember being rude to anyone about them at our wedding or at Jess'. How come I don't remember yelling at Jess at his wedding. I don't think I was that bad that he took my kid and never wants to see us again."

Luke shook his head in disgust and Lorelai started talking and said, "You're kidding right? You can't be that stupid can you? Or are you just the biggest idiot to ever walk the earth. When the minister asked if anyone had any objections to Jess and Sarah getting married that they should speak now or forever hold their peace you stood up and yelled at him in front of a packed church that he was rude to not wear air pants to his wedding. The minister was shocked that you would yell like that. Everyone there was actually. Jess looked so regal in his tux and Sarah looked breathtaking in her dress. What the absolute fuck is wrong with you that you think it's ok to embarrass Jess and Sarah like that on their wedding day no less. Then anytime anyone saw you, TJ the rest of the night all you could talk about was Jess' lack of air pants. Multiple people came up to me and asked if you were having or had a stroke or were you just that stupid and obnioxous. I would reply just stupid and obnioxous and they felt sorry for us and Jess and Sarah. They then asked me to please take your car keys away as you were so drunk they didn't know how you were still standing up. You reeked of alcohol the entire day. You even threw up in the limo on the way home. And I know that because they called me to tell me they were keeping the deposit I put down on the limo for you. Luke and I paid for the family's limos as a part of the wedding present to Jess and Sarah. You really are a terrible drunk."

TJ just stood there and said, "Really. I remember having a fabulous time at the wedding. I thought everyone was so nice and the bar had lots of great drinks. I thought everyone loved me. I'm such a lovable guy. I don't remember anything else though."

Liz then said, "He really hates me. He never wants to talk to me again. He took my kid away. I did my best. I thought we had a good life. But listening to what he just said right now I couldn't have been that bad could I? A permanent restraining order and he took Doula and is looking for permanent custody of her. I thought he would be so happy to see me today. I thought you all would. I thought he would love my surprise visit. He's my baby boy and he apparently hates me. What did I do that was so bad? I heard what he said but I just don't think it was so bad. That's why I keep calling because I hope eventually he would pick up and talk to me."

Luke fielded those questions, "You really can't be that stupid right? You're my sister and I am supposed to love you and I promised Dad I would look after you but you just don't seem to get it. I think all the alcohol and drugs fried your last brain cells. Cause you can't be this stupid can you? I knew things were bad with you and Jess but I never knew how bad. But drugs, alcohol, molestation and prostitution. Those burn marks are enough to turn anyone's stomach and you did nothing to stop them from happening. Dad would be so ashamed of you right now. I am ashamed of you. Now I feel absolutely awful that I didn't step in sooner. No child should ever have to worry where their next meal is coming from. Wonder if there is going to be a safe place to sleep or a bed to sleep in. How many times did I have to come bail you out? How much money have I loaned you over the years and never ever have you tried to pay any of it back. Not even a dollar of it. Instead you only asked for more. Like I am your own personal bank. Well this bank is officially closed forever. There were times I didn't have it to give you but I somehow scraped it together anyway so you and Jess would be ok and safe. We are talking over 75 thousand dollars that I have loaned you but, that wasn't enough was it. I didn't know until today that the money wasn't going into safe housing or food but up your nose and down your throat. I feel so very stupid that I never realized that before today. You may be my sister but your son deserved a whole lot better than what you gave him. I deserved better than what you did to me too. Now I think it might be best for everyone involved if you and TJ left and went to go surprise someone else's family. I am going to agree on what Jess said that you have hurt me and him and my family more than I ever thought was possible and I would like you to leave. When and if you can ever get your shit together and can be sober and drug free for longer than a couple of days maybe then we can talk. But for right now, Happy Thanksgiving. Happy Holidays. Happy whatever. Here's the door. Leave. Don't let it hit you where the good lord split you."

Liz replied, "You really want me to leave. See I thought you all would love us coming and invite us in with open arms. We were hoping you might even let us stay for a while as we have no place else to go. And no money to go anywhere else. Please let us stay. We're family. We need help getting back on our feet."

Luke was now angry. Angry beyond words. He started yelling, "Oh my god does it ever end. The only reason you came here was for another hand out. How stupid can I be to expect anything different. How were you going to feed Doula or get her diapers or anything else? Now I am glad that Jess has taken the necessary steps to take permanent custody of Doula as if he didn't I would. When is it ever going to be enough. When is it ever going to be Luke and Lorelai have done enough for us. Or are you always going to be there with your hand out. Apparently coming here tonight has shown me it is never going to be enough. When are you ever going to start paying me back all the money I have lent you over the years. I doubt that will ever happen so I won't hold my breath. Lorelai and I have worked damn hard to make sure that there was food on the table. A roof over our heads and anything else we need. Lorelai and Rory spent the first 9 years of Rory's life living in a shed so that Lorelai could save every penny that she made to buy them a house and a safer place to be. She made damn sure Rory always ate and if there was a question of not having enough money Lorelai always went without food included. But after hearing Jess just now I know you didn't feel the same way. Lorelai worked her way up but you didn't do the same. You are always looking for a handout or someone to help you. You probably don't even have a job right now and haven't had one in months. You are a mooch. Are you even drug free and sober or did you bring drugs into my house? You know what I don't care. Get out. I do not want you in my house. I do not need you here and I don't feel I need to help you out any further. Rory, Finn I have a favor to ask of you."

Rory and Finn walk over to Luke and Luke whispers to Rory, "Can you go get the spare key from the top of the door frame at the diner. I don't trust Liz to not try to go there and stay in the apartment. She knows where the key is. It has been in the same place for years. I put nothing past her at this point. It shouldn't take you very long. There is only one on the front door and not the back door."

Luke then says, "Thanks Rory and Finn. Dinner will be on the table by the time you get back. The ladies will watch the kids for you. I am going to help Buddy go plate everything up."

Luke then turns back to Liz and TJ and says, "Get out NOW! Or am I going to have to call Cops to get you to leave my house. I do not want you here. You can not stay here or at the Diner apartment or anywhere else that we own. I do not care if you have no place to stay. There are no vacancies at the Dragonfly Inn and even if there were you can't afford to stay there and Lorelai wouldn't comp your room after how you both have behaved. Maybe try sleeping in the park or town square and telling yourself what a fun camping experience that would be. I am sure Taylor would just love that. I am sure he has some fines he could come up with. I don't care if you don't have money for food or if it's Thanksgiving or anything else. I am done. I have more than fulfilled my promise to Dad that I would look after you but I don't think he ever thought you would still be looking for a handout at 36 or be still strung out on drugs and alcohol. So again I am going to say there's the door. I want you gone and I never want to see you again. I will also promise you I will be there with Jess next month to make sure that he gets permanent custody of Doula and if he can't take care of her I will. You will never see your daughter and have custody again. I have every receipt for all the money I have loaned you. We even have a copy of the video from the church where TJ had his little outburst and you at your drinking toast at the reception. That will go a long way to show how much of a deadbeat mom and dad you really are. And how little you have changed over the years. NOW GET THE FUCK OUT OF MY HOUSE NOW!"

Maisy grabbed Luke's arm and said, "Lucas, please go inside and help Buddy and try to calm down. Please. Lorelai and I will take care of everything out here. They are not staying for dinner or anything else I promise."

Luke grabbed his and Lorelai's keys out of the bowl by the front door before joining Buddy in the kitchen. He put nothing past Liz and he didn't want her stealing his keys trying to get into the diner.

Liz said, "You too Maisy. I thought for sure you would be by my side."

Maisy replied, "Why should I? Do you know how many times I saw Luke and his business struggle as you needed more financial help than he could give you. But you never cared. We were worried Luke was working himself into an early grave as he was working at the diner during the day and took a job as a stock person at the supermarket in Woodbridge at night. Did you know he took a second job to try to help you? Probably not. You probably wouldn't have cared either. It was coming to you right. We tried to help but Luke was too proud. I know you didn't help pay any of Wiliam's hospital bills which were huge. Luke had to pay those off over many years but you didn't care. You just kept asking for more and more. You needed the help and he would tell me that family helps family. But you never asked if he could afford it or if he needed the money back or anything. You just expected it was coming to you. Like Luke owed it to you. Which is so far from the truth it isn't even funny. Well I am here to tell you that family helps family but it is not a one sided relationship and it has been a one sided relationship for way too long. Luke deserved better than how you treated him. He deserves better now. So does Jess. Buddy and I will also be there next month to make sure that Doula and any other kids you may have in the future will not be allowed to stay in your care. William would be rolling over in his grave if he knew what you were doing and what you have done. Or even how you have treated Luke. Now you have been asked to leave his house and I suggest you do that or I will have to call the cops. Have a nice night. Hopefully you dressed warm as it is chilly out there."

Liz and TJ stood there in shock for a moment. Liz thought that Maisy, one of her parents' oldest friends, would be on her side. She was mistaken yet again. She was mistaken about many things that were said tonight. It appears that she had finally worn out her welcome with everyone that mattered to her. That they were being asked to leave a dinner that smells amazing and she was starving. That Jess had left with Doula and she had lost custody of her. It was just all too much and Liz broke down and started crying. The thing was everyone standing there expected the fake crocodile tears and just stood there awkwardly while she cried not offering any remorse for what she said and did. No one even bothered to offer her a tissue to dry her face. When Liz realized that her crocodile tears wouldn't solve anything and nothing would change she used her sleeve to wipe her face and grabbed TJ's hand and reluctantly walked out the door. Lorelai followed them and as soon as they were on the porch she slammed the front door closed and locked the door. Liz just couldn't believe that they would all turn their backs on her. It was a true shock to her. She always thought they would help her as family helps family. Liz and TJ slowly walked to the town square and went and sat in the gazebo. Liz saw the diner and thought what he didn't know wont hurt him and maybe they could get something to eat. Liz walked over to the diner and ran her hand over the door frame hoping to find the key she knew was always there. When she came up empty handed she realized that she lost again.

As Liz stood there crying Finn and Rory came back from their quick errand. Rory walked into the kitchen and handed the key to Luke and Luke put it in his jeans. He gave Rory a hug before turning back to help Buddy with dinner. Rory knew how hard this must be on him and she didn't want to push him to talk. She knew he would talk when he was ready. Finn stayed in the kitchen and was happy to be able to help run plates of food out to the table. He was happy to feel needed and really didn't know how to help in this situation.

Liz said, "Shit. That key has been up here for years. I was so hoping that we could sneak into the diner and stay in Luke's old apartment upstairs. But there is no key here. What are we supposed to do now? I can't believe my whole family turned their backs on us. What are we going to do for food or shelter? I'm starving and that dinner smelled so good. Did Luke actually think we should sleep in the square. I used to tell that to Jess when he was a kid as I had no other option for us but we're not kids. They should have wanted to help us. I can't believe they would kick us out. I can't believe they would treat faaammmilllyy like that. It's hard to believe they all turned their back on us."

TJ spoke and said, "I still don't understand why they were mad at me. Air pants are the best thing known to man. I don't think it was so wrong at the wedding. That really doesn't sound like me. You told me they would let us stay with them and give us money. What are we supposed to do now? What about Doula?"

"I don't know. I just don't understand. Today was nothing like I was expecting. I just don't know what to think or do. I don't think we are getting Doula back. Did you know we missed 2 court dates? I didn't. I wonder where they sent those forms to. Maybe she is better off with Jess."

Liz and TJ reluctantly went and sat back down in the gazebo. It was a cold November night and they had no place left to go but to hunker down and hope everything would be better in the morning. What they weren't counting on is Luke calling Taylor who called Coop and who told them to keep walking as there was no overnight sleeping at the square without a permit. Both Liz and TJ tried pleading with Coop but were unsuccessful. They started walking to crazy Carrie's house hoping she might take them in. It was a long shot but the only shot they had.

Meanwhile back at the house Luke and Buddy began plating everything and got dinner ready. Finn was happy to run all kinds of food out to the table. It all smelled so good.

Buddy turned to Luke and said, "I want you to know how proud I am of you. I know tonight could not have been easy for you in any way shape or form. You are stronger than I ever thought possible and I am so proud of you and of this family."

Luke replied, "Thank you for being here Buddy and for everything you said. I don't think it has all hit me yet. I surely wasn't expecting all of this tonight. Now let's try to go eat something. I don't think I am going to be great company but I am going to try."

Luke called the family to the table and Maisy, Rory and Lorelai helped put the kids in their seats. Once everyone was settled Luke said, "Happy Thanksgiving everyone. Thank you all for coming and for sticking by me and Jess with everything that was said tonight. I honestly can't believe everything that went on and I don't think it has hit me yet. Finn, Rory thank you for going to get that key from the door frame of the diner. It has been up there since my dad owned the place and Liz knew it was there. I put nothing past her to try to sneak in there and stay at the apartment. I appreciate that you all went and did my errand no questions asked. Now everything here smells delicious. Let's try to enjoy it with family. I love you all from the bottom of my heart. I am still in a little bit of shock so please don't be upset if I don't talk much or talk out of turn."

Just then Rory's phone rang. Luke looked at her sideways as if to say no phones at the table and it's Thanksgiving and Rory said, "Let me just take this and I will explain everything in a couple of minutes. All good. I promise. Start without me."

Rory spoke to Sarah who told them they arrived at the hotel and had checked in and had the bags brought up. They couldn't believe how beautiful the room and hotel were. Sarah then told her that they were heading down to dinner in just a few minutes after a bathroom and diaper change pitstop. She was grateful that they stayed because she didn't think that the ramifications of everything that had been said tonight had hit Jess yet and she knew that Jess might need Rory and Luke before this was all over. Rory promised her that she and Finn would be there for whatever they needed and that they would see them in a few hours. She asked if they wanted to come back for dinner and Sarah said that they were going to stay at the hotel as Jess was just drained. Rory said she understood. She also suggested that maybe Jess should text the therapist and let her know what had gone on.

Once Rory came back to the table she said, "I am sorry but I had to take that call. That was Sarah. They just got to our hotel room in Hartford and are heading downstairs shortly for dinner that Finn setup for them. They are planning on spending the weekend with us and their boys and probably Doula too are going to go swimming with us all tomorrow. I told Sarah that between you and me mom I was sure we had suits for the boys and I guess Doula too and Sarah too. I told Sarah that we all would be there for Jess and you too Luke for whatever you needed. Sarah told me that she thinks that none of this has hit Jess yet and he still seems to be in shock. I invited them to come back here for dinner and Sarah said that she thought it was better for them to stay there and have a quiet dinner just the 5 of them. Sarah said that she thought Jess was just emotionally drained. I am so happy that they decided to stay the weekend. I even suggested that maybe Jess should text his therapist and tell her everything that happened. Sarah thought that was a good idea. I know tonight was nothing like we planned but I have to tell you Luke and you as well Maisy that I am so proud of you both. I can't imagine that any of this was easy tonight but you both seemed to keep your cool and your wits about you. Luke that you knew to tell me to go get that key was commendable. I don't know if I could have done the same. Now everything smells delicious so I am going to say I am grateful for all of you and for family. Everyone at this table is my family and I wouldn't have had a night like tonight any other way."

Luke spoke up and said, "I don't think I kept my cool at all but thank you for saying all of that. I am sorry I raised my voice tonight. I am very happy that they are staying and that you and Finn will be there tonight to help Jess and Sarah. I think they are going to need it. Tonight and everything that happened and everything that has been said hasn't hit me yet. Maisy, Buddy, we are planning on taking William to Hartford tomorrow to go swimming at Finn's hotel and then all have dinner together again tomorrow. You are all welcome to join us if you would like. You know you are welcome to join us in anything we do. I don't know how great company I will be though. I am just having a hard time wrapping my brain around it all. All that abuse and Liz thought it was ok and acceptable. That she and TJ came here for another handout disgusts me. I called Taylor who was going to call Coop to tell them that without a permit they were unable to camp out in the town square. I am sure that made Liz very mad but I just don't care anymore. I can't continue to fight her battles or be her bank anymore. I would think after doing it for the last 20 years it would be enough but apparently it is never going to be enough with Liz."

The rest of the meal was quiet and relaxing. Finn had poured Luke a couple of fingers of scotch as he knew he needed them after everything that happened. Luke was grateful that his family was there to take care of him and help see him through all of this.

Meanwhile back at the hotel after a quick diaper change the family of 5 went downstairs for an amazing dinner. Everything was delicious. Neither Jess nor Sarah could believe how much food Doula ate but they both realized that they had no idea when her last meal was. Finn had made sure they had an amazing table and great service. Both of them were just happy to be there and were enjoying the meal and the time together. Neither said much about Liz or TJ as the wound was still raw for both of them. They both chose to spend the time on their kids and their new larger family. Sarah was happy that Jess was happy. As was if a weight had been lifted off of him. Jess promised her that he would text his therapist Mary to let her know what happened. He actually thought it was a good idea.

Once done with dinner the 5 of them returned to the suite where Jess and Sarah gave the boys and Doula a bath. Doula was so dirty it was hard to believe. Once they took her diaper off Sarah took a couple of pictures to show how dirty she was and how long it had been since she had a bath. They took q-tips to get the encrusted dirt out of her belly button and scrubbed her hair. She had dirt caked between her toes. Both of them were disgusted and knew it was now obvious that she wasn't being cared for. Once done Sarah got her into a clean diaper and put her in a pair of John's Pajamas. The clothes in her diaper bag were gross and in need of a good washing and honestly looked 3 sizes too small and many were threadbare. Sarah then went about cutting her toe and fingernails and getting her ready for bed. The 5 of them sat on the sofa in the main room just giggling and talking softly and Jess started making up a story. Before he got even half way through the story the kids had fallen asleep. Jess decided that he thought it would be best if they all stayed in the same room as then if any of the kids woke up in the middle of the night they would be there to comfort them. They were in a strange place afterall. Jess carried the kids to the queen bed while Sarah pulled down the sheets. Once everyone was situated in bed Jess and Sarah went back into the main room to talk and wait for Finn and Rory and their kids.

Jess seemed to be taking it all in stride. He knew he was in shock as he was not expecting to see Liz or TJ tonight. He went and got himself a glass of scotch and asked Sarah, "Do you think I was wrong or too harsh tonight? I know I probably hurt her feelings but I was on one of Luke's rants and it felt so good to be able to say everything that I needed to say. I was told to write it all out in a letter and maybe someday I could mail it to her. To me this was better though as now the rest of the family knows how horrible of a person she is. I know I probably forgot a lot but it felt good nonetheless. I don't even know if I make sense anymore. I hope you're not upset, we took Doula. If it's too much I can talk to Luke and Lorelai about maybe taking her. I know we have enough money so that shouldn't be a problem. Sorry I am rambling."

Sarah replied, "Jess I am so proud of you. I know how hard that must have been to confront her and tell her that you thought you had a shit childhood. You didn't yell or scream or cry, you just laid it all out on the line. Of course I am not upset that we would be raising Doula. I was there in court with you when we spoke to the judge and I signed the same paperwork as you and I am going to be by your side next month when she officially and permanently becomes part of our family. I wouldn't have signed the papers if I didn't want your sister and didn't think we could raise her better than Liz and TJ. Could we talk about changing her name though to something better than the name for a midwife? Is her middle name just as bad? Maybe we could use that? Sorry now we are really on a tangent. Sweetheart you have come so far in the last 2 years. Mary has been such a help to you. That you were able to talk about being molested tonight and how Liz hurt you and everything she did or didn't due to you is huge. That you came out and said that you haven't returned an email, text or phone call in 2 years and you have no plans to return them now is huge. Hey, that you even told Luke what he means to you. He is more like your dad and your family than Jimmy and Liz ever were. I hope you know how much I love you."

Jess began to belly laugh, "If you think Doula is bad her middle names are Moonchild and Wildflower. I think we need to change it to something that isn't going to get the kid bullied or kicked in the ass all the time. It was hard enough growing up with a girl's name. I won't do that to my sister too. Maybe Susan or Margaret or even Mary. Just please no Elizabeth or Liz or Beth. Actually could we talk about maybe changing it to Katherine. That was Luke's mom's name. Katie for short. I am happy you convinced me to stay here this weekend. I think the boys are going to love swimming tomorrow and I know I would like to spend some time with Luke and his family too. I really have missed Luke. I am happy we have nothing to drag us home this weekend or even next week. I still don't think it has hit me yet. I am finally free out from under her grasp and she knows it. She knows that if she contacts me again or shows up where I am she can be arrested. Good thinking about bringing the paperwork and even the extra car seat. It's like you had a sixth sense that they would show up this weekend. How did you know? Moonchild Mariano? Or should it be Wildflower Mariano? Both have a nice ring to it right?"

Jess started laughing at himself. "Oh my I needed that." Sarah also began laughing as well. It felt good to laugh like this. They knew there would be rough days ahead but for right now everything was better. The two of them sat on the couch and continued to talk.

Once Sarah stopped laughing she replied, "I don't know how I knew. I was just thinking it was holiday and she probably wanted to be with family and thought we would welcome them with open arms. I figured we had the room in the truck it wouldn't hurt us to pack it. Glad we bought the bigger SUV. I think it will be easier now that all three of them are in car seats. Oh god those names are horrible. Who picked her name? Were they stoned or drunk or they just spent a lot of time at Woodstock. No she can't have Moonchild as a first name and Wildflower is even worse. She would definitely get hurt with those. How about Katherine Michelle. Katherine for Luke's mom and your grandma and Michelle for my mom. Just a thought. I am glad we are spending the weekend. I think once it hits both of us it might get worse before it gets better. By the way my folks want to come to court with us next month when we officially adopt her. I told them that I didn't think it would be a problem. Maybe we should make reservations for lunch for everyone after. Maybe ask Luke and Lorelai and Rory and Finn if they would like to come and spend the weekend in Philly too. We should try to spend more time together as they are all the family you have. I can't believe this room. It is gorgeous and dinner tonight was absolutely incredible. Finn was right that Creme Brulee was so yummy. Everything was amazing and I am so stuffed. I couldn't believe how much food Doula ate but then again who knows what and when she was fed last. And I couldn't believe how dirty that bath water was. It was like they hadn't bothered giving her a bath in weeks. I wasn't thinking we probably should have given her a bath when we got here. I think we are going to have to do some clothes shopping for her. The stuff in her bag was gross and looked way too small."

"Lets not worry about clothes for her. I am sure that Rory has some we could borrow for tomorrow and we can always put Nana Lorelai on the case. Worst case condition she wears some more of John's clothes till we can get her clean clothes. Your right that bath water was gross. It's like Liz didn't even notice or care. But that's Liz for you. I really thought she would put up more of a fight with us when we took Doula. But maybe she was just happy not to have a kid to take care of. Who knows. Who cares. I love that everyone wants to be there next month to see her have a permanent home. I think before we change her name to Katherine we need to talk to Luke and Lorelai and make sure that they aren't going to be upset if we use it. The last thing I ever want to do is hurt Luke or his feelings. I I love the idea of making lunch reservations for all of us. Maybe Maggiano's and we could do family style. The blending of all of our families together. I am sorry that we didn't stay tonight and eat some of Buddy's cooking. He really is an amazing chef. So now we are going to have 3 under 3. We really have our work cut out for us and I better keep writing best sellers right?"

Sarah laughed and said, "We will manage. It may be rough but I would rather it be a little harder for us and know that she is safe and can't be harmed than be with Liz. Anything would be better than that. Ooohhh Maggiano's. I love their chicken Parm. That would be a great idea. I think we need to figure out how many people we will be so we can make a reservation. Do you need a drink refill?"

"I think I'm good but I do think I might go in and take a hot shower if you are ok with me leaving you out here."

"Go enjoy your shower. I could be happy reading my book for a bit. I will keep an ear out for the kids."

Jess went and started the shower. While he was gone Rory, Finn, Mia and Finny returned back to the room. Rory was able to catch Finn up on everything on the car ride back to Hartford. Finn was shocked to hear everything and now understood why the kids shouldn't have been there.

Rory asked, "Where is Jess? I am assuming that the kids are out cold. Ours too. Finn let me help you get them into bed. Good idea to change them into PJ's before we left mom and Luke's."

Sarah responded, "Jess went to take a shower but he has been gone a while. Do you need help getting your kids to bed?"

Rory shook her head no and Sarah went in to check on Jess. When she got there she found him sitting on the floor of the shower in his boxers crying. He was incoherent and honestly was scaring Sarah a bit. She quickly walked back into the main room just in time to see Finn and Rory come out of the bedroom.

Sarah spoke and said, "Finn I need your help. Jess is sitting on the floor of the shower in his boxers and he is incoherent. He has been there a while and I think we need to get him out. He is too heavy for me to lift. Will you help me?"

Finn took off his jacket and shoes and quickly walked into the bathroom. Finn shut off the water and was able to help him stand. He wrapped him in a towel and moved out of the way and left the bathroom. He was hoping to give him some space and dignity and Sarah said she would help him get changed and into some PJ's. This was exactly what Rory was afraid of and was very happy that they decided to stay with them this weekend. Once Sarah had him dried off and in dry PJ's she put him to bed. She came out and spoke to Rory and Finn for a moment and thanked them for helping Jess. She said she did not want to leave him alone and they both understood and she returned to their room. She quickly got changed to her PJ's and crawled into bed and held Jess tight all night long as he cried for his lost childhood as well as losing both of his parents. He finally fell into a deep sleep about 1 am. Sarah was very grateful for Finn's help.

On the other side of the suite Rory and Finn got ready for bed. They were both grateful that the Mariano family was staying with them for the weekend. They knew they did the right thing by inviting them to stay. They knew it would be a long road back for Jess but they would help anyway they could. Both fell into a deep sleep happy for family and each other's company.