Hey everyone! First off, thank you all so much for the support, follows and reviews! They push me to be a better writer and to expand my ideas into something great! I hope you all stick around to see where this goes!

For those of you who might have missed it, I updated Hard Hits a week or so ago.

And for those who are waiting for my other stories, they should be up soon. My one shot will probably be up first and then who knows. But I promise they will all be updated!

Guest: Thank you and me too! Sorry it took so long. And me too! I needed to end on something sweet.

Guest: You're welcome and thank you too! I'm glad you're liking this. With Rucas, you'll have to wait and see. As for Missy, that's a work in progress.

Guest: Here it is!

It's Allie: LOL, maybe and that's very true! Pieces of everything (the vandalism, Riley's past and Joshaya's concern for her) will be revealed as the story continues and you're welcome. Thank you too!

somuchlovexoxo: Maya definitely is Riley's right hand woman and you'll learn things about Riley's past as the story continues. Yes, Joshaya together is a very good team and you know I had to add a little bit of sweetness.

Laugh instead: First off, thank you for all the reviews! You're awesome! And if you want me to answer (the best I can) everything you wrote/said, I'll send you a PM. Just let me know!

someday00293: You're welcome and I'm glad you like this one! Thank you for your review and what you said at the end. That means a lot. Yes, Joshaya can only agree on Riley and Maya is totally being the best friend in helping Riley with Lucas. Josh is being the nice, caring uncle and helping Rilaya and Missy is just Missy. As for everything else, pieces will revealed as the story progresses.

Jen2000: Haha, that's right and I'm glad I brought you back! Thank you for both your reviews! As for Farkle, I have him dividing time between the store and his business. Though, I haven't really thought about it. Grumpy Maya was fun to write and as for Joshaya, Rucas and all the drama, you'll just have to keep on reading to find out! But I'm glad you liked the end!

joshaya00423: Yep, good old Rcuas. And of course Maya say it! Missy, is well, Missy…Josh is sweet Josh and piece by piece things will be revealed so stay tuned!

xxAmy: Oh, Joshaya…I'm glad you liked the end! Keep reading to find out and thank you so much!

TalkingInMySleep: Thank you so much! Missy is definitely something and keep reading to find out about Joshaya and everything else!

Brenna: Keep reading to find out about Joshaya, but the one thing you always know is that they have Riley's back. Missy is trouble and who knows about Rucas, but I like your idea! Thnak you so much and I'm glad you're liking this!

Cheerra12: Here it is!

MilesAndMilesToGo: You're welcome though, I tend to always add others in my stories and this one definitely needed Joshaya. As for them, keep reading to find out about them and everything/everyone else and you know they'll always come together for Riley. Thank you so much!

I'mJustAnotherDreamer: Lol, I guess I have been and I'm sorry, not sorry! (You know I love you all) it's fun to write them, I like to keep people guessing and just keep reading, please! Pieces will be revealed as the story continues!

Enjoy!


One week. One week is all it takes to get the store back to normal. The second Maya opens the door the following week, their regular, loyal customers come rushing in and offering gifts and sympathy. Both girls are overwhelmed with the gesture, but feel the love and couldn't be more grateful for their friends and supporters.

Every day since the break in, Maya watches Riley like a hawk and is slightly confused with what's happening with her. She can see the 'real Riley smile' every once in a while and other times it's the fake one she's perfected over the years, but even when the fake smile appears, it somehow still reaches her eyes and her demeanor never changes. Either she's a really great actress or she's more comfortable with dealing with stressful situations. Which is a good thing to hope for.

Of course she also feels bad for going behind her best friend's back and telling Josh what she knows, but with the two of them keeping tabs on her, it's the only way they can help her. Truly help her move on and push through her insecurities and overcome her troubled past. And every day she hopes to see Lucas, even though she knows he probably won't come by so she can talk to him. But she doesn't know the right way to approach the certain subjects of Riley and Missy without causing more problems and unwanted questions.

And the cherry on top of all of this is that Riley changed her schedule so she's not at the store in the early morning when deliveries would have come. She's deliberately hiding and as her best friend and sister, she's going to pull her out of the shadows one way or another.

OoOoOoOo

It's the next week and after the morning crowd thins out, the phone rings loudly, breaking Maya away from her thoughts. Quickly setting down the box of paint brushes, she rushes to the phone and greets, "Good afternoon, Changing Strokes. This is Maya. How can I help you?"

"Afternoon, Maya, it Josh," the deep voice says pleasantly.

"Hey Josh. What's up?" Maya wonders as she leans against the counter.

"I was hoping to talk with Riley. Is she around?" Josh asks in a soft tone.

"No, she's not here right now," Maya answers casually.

"She's not? Is she still coming in late and staying even later?" Josh pushes, but keeps his tone calm.

"Yep," Maya replies, popping the 'p' at the end. "It's been two weeks and a half weeks and I still can't talk her into coming in regular time again."

"Same here. I've talked to her like, every couple of days and she's still very adamant in keeping this schedule. Have you seen Lucas or Missy around?" Josh inquires curiously as they are the main reason Riley is hiding.

"Missy, yes. And before you say anything, don't worry. We've kept our distance from each other and haven't said a word to one another. We just scowl in each other's direction. As for Lucas, no. I haven't seen him since right before the break in, but I'm hoping to see him soon," Maya mentions honestly.

"Thank you for not doing things the Maya way," Josh lightly chuckles. "And why would you want to see Lucas?" his tone quickly harshens.

Maya ignores the rough tone, rolls her eyes and answers, "I know you don't want to hear this because you're the protective uncle and all, but I think there's potential for something to happen between Riley and Lucas. And I want to talk with him about what happened with the store,"

"Riley and Lucas? Like together, together? You really think there's something going on between the two of them? Since when? And why would you want to talk to him about the store, Maya? Don't start rumors or cause more problems," Josh starts to list off and warn sternly.

"Whoa. Calm your roll, Matthews. I'm not going to tell him any of my theories or what happened between Riles and Missy. I know it's not my story to share and for you to think that, it's a little insulting. But I do want to know if he's heard anything from any of the other store owners and residents who live around here. He's a friendly guy who others talk to and he might have different information. I know we all just want to find out who did it so we can finally move on. Now, as far as your freak out concerning Riley and Lucas, yes I think something good could happen between them. There were sparks the second they met and what other guy that you know of would have breakfast with a girl he just met every morning if he wasn't interested? I think he likes her, but knowing Riley, I'm pretty sure they're going on her terms and that means staying in the potential friend zone," Maya lays out bluntly as she catches her breath.

"Yeah, I'm sure you're right. Riley doesn't let anyone in, but for me, it's reassuring that she's being cautious with guys. For your other reasoning, I think it's a good idea to talk with Lucas. Maybe he does know something we don't. And Hart, if Riles isn't back to her normal work schedule next week, the three of us are going to have a conversation, all right?" Josh suggests with concern.

"For you, of course it great. But for her it's not a good thing. She needs to be able to live her life openly and freely. She hasn't let anyone in for a long time. But, it's understandable. Aw, thank you, Joshy! It's a miracle that you agree with me. That means a lot. And that sounds like a plan," Maya agrees, her tone light and teasing.

"Good. And tell Riley I'll be by tonight with dinner. You can stay too if you'd like," Josh continues, getting back to business.

"Will do and thanks for the offer, but I have plans tonight," Maya retorts.

"Thanks and no problem. You got a hot date or something?" Josh questions and then smacks his forehead with his palm. He doesn't care what she does in her personal life.

"A very hot date with a great guy named Noah," Maya quickly counters with sass.

"Well, I'm sure the two of you will have a great time," Josh snaps.

"We definitely will," Maya fires back sharply. "We'll have dinner, maybe watch a movie and then I'll put him to bed."

"Wait. What?" Josh questions in confusion.

"Goodbye, Joshua," Maya hangs up with a groan as she sees Riley enter the store. "Good afternoon, Honey."

"Hi, Peaches! How are you today?" Riley asks with a smile.

"I'm good. How are you?" Maya asks back and watches her friend carefully.

"I'm good as well. And I can't thank you enough for opening the store these past few weeks," Riley appreciates as she walks over to her best friend and embraces her in a hug.

"It's not a problem. You know I'd do anything for you. But just out of curiosity, when might we go back to the normal schedule?" Maya inquires gently, not wanting to upset Riley.

"Soon, very soon. I know it's not fair to you for to be doing all this extra work," Riley mumbles guiltily.

"I'm not complaining and I really don't mind it, so don't worry. Okay? And to ease your mind, I haven't seen him," Maya throws out randomly, watching Riley's eyes widen before she takes a quick glimpse to the front door.

"Not yet, but I know he'll come. If he asks about me, you know what to say," Riley finishes, the fake smile on her lips as she walks away to the back offices.

The two work in peace for the next few hours, chatting about random things and Maya being very careful not to push Riley into topics she doesn't want to talk about until she leaves for her date. Riley continues working, helping the handful of customers that come in and once the sun starts to set, Josh arrives with a box of pizza. The two eat and only talk about work as Riley cleans up the front area and sets up the side room for classes for the next day and Josh checks the books and makes sure things are on track.

About two hours later, the two head home as Riley gives Josh a sweet embrace before hopping in her car and driving up the street. Josh sits in his car and waits a minute or so before following Riley home, even though he promised he wouldn't. He just has to make sure she's safe and he makes it to her apartment just in time to see her unlock her door and walk inside. Feeling better knowing she's okay, he goes over the list he made in his head at the store on the drive home as he too is very perplexed by Riley's demeanor. Her actions and attitude are still very Riley, but there's a wall holding her back and he and Maya have a lot to talk about and work out.

OoOoOoOo

The next morning, bright and early, Maya takes a long sip of her coffee before unlocking the door to the store as today is a new day and hopefully better then yesterday. She just places her purse and coffee on the counter when the loud knock scares her to death and makes her jump in surprise. Clutching her chest, she swiftly turns around to see Farkle dressed in a savvy business suit and eagerly waving at her. Motioning that he can enter, he quickly walks in as Maya meets him half way.

"Morning, Farkle. What's up?" she grins happily.

"Good morning, Maya and nothing much. But I am leaving today. Actually my flight is in a few hours. I tried calling Riley, but she didn't answer so I left her a message. Is there any possibility that you can call her and that she'll answer?" he wonders hopefully.

"Um, I can try a few things. Don't worry. I'll get her to answer eventually. And I'm so sad you're leaving. It's been a lot of fun having you here these past couple of months. I'm really going to miss you," Maya frowns sadly.

"I'm going to miss you too and I agree, it's been awesome seeing you and Riley and being able to hang out like we used to. But My, is she going to be okay?" Farkle inquires with uneasiness.

"I hope so. I really hope she can get past this. She was doing so well and slowly opening up to others and for the first time in a long time, we saw the old Riley and it was amazing. But after the break in and other situations, she went back to shielding herself. She's still carrying the guilt, anger and sadness," Maya admits softly as she wraps her arms around her upper body.

"That's terrible. She has to know it wasn't her fault. But at least she has you, me, Josh and uh, Landon, Logan- whatever his name is," Farkle sighs sorrowfully, wishing he could do more for his friend.

"Yeah, but she's not budging from her comfort zone. We're here for her, but I don't think we're helping all that much. And um, you mean Lucas?" Maya asks with a raised eyebrow and small smile.

"Yes, him. Didn't they have a thing?" Farkle continues, thinking back to all he's heard.

"If you think breakfast every morning with some conversation is a thing then sure. He's a part of this too," Maya mentions casually.

"Well then, I hope he can help. He seems like a good guy. Keep me updated with everything, please," Farkle requests gently.

"Us too. He is a good guy and of course!" Maya promises, him a quick hug and then goes on her mission to call Riley.

She calls from her cell phone the first time and like Farkle, she has to leave a message. She tries again, getting the same response and then decides to call from the landline on Changing Strokes. It rings and rings before Riley finally answers and is not pleased. But Maya ignores the bitchy tone and explains to her friend that she needed at the store ASAP! Riley questions the demand, but Maya keeps repeating that she's needed. Finally after a few minutes of arguing, Riley agrees to be there in fifteen minutes. Pleased with herself, Maya relays the message to Farkle and then gets to work before customers arrive.

Close to twenty minutes later, the front door swings open with a very unhappy Riley stomping in.

"You summoned me, Maya?" she hisses with her arms crossed over her chest.

Maya tries really hard to keep a straight face and then opens her mouth to reply, but Farkle beats her to it. "Actually, I did," he shares coming out from the back.

"Farkle? What are you doing here?" Riley murmurs in surprise.

"I'm heading back home. I wanted to see you before I left and that's why we called you this morning," he explains with a small smile.

"I'm sorry for ignoring you and I'm glad you called, the both of you," Riley apologizes to her friends and then walks over to hug him.

"Why don't the two of you talk in private in Riles office? I think customers may be coming soon," Maya suggests with a happy grin as she speedily, but calmly ushers the two to the back.

"Thanks, Peaches," Riley nods happily as she loops her arm through Farkle's and walks away.

Once Maya hears the door close, she hurriedly runs to the front door and spots the familiar truck still sitting outside. Perfect!

Quietly as possible, she opens the front door, sticks her head out and does a quick, but loud whistle, trying to get Lucas' attention. Which she does. Duh, she's a pro at this. He looks over his shoulder in confusion by the noise and then is shocked when he sees the suspicious blonde waving at him. He holds up his pointer finger, indicating for her to wait a minute as he delivers all the necessary items to their owners.

Once he finishes, he puts his equipment back in the truck before walking over to the store and asking, "Yes, Maya?" in a neutral tone.

"Well, hello to you too, Lucas. I have a few questions for you," she tells him simply.

"Uh, I'm still working. Can't it wait?" he wonders with a raised eyebrow and glances down at his watch.

"I know you are, but I'll only take a few minutes of your time. I promise," Maya counters in a whisper.

"Fine. What do you want to ask?" Lucas sighs, crossing his arms over his chest.

"First off, why haven't you been by since the um, incident?" Maya presses curiously.

"I haven't been by because you guys stopped deliveries, you know that. And I'm sorry for what happened. It sucks that something like that happened to such great people," Lucas mumbles.

"You think I'm great?" Maya teases with a big grin.

"Not you. Riley and Josh," Lucas instantly corrects.

"Fair enough. And even though we stopped deliveries, that didn't mean you had to stop coming by. You've been having breakfast with us for a while now and we're all friends. Also, not to dampen the mood or anything, but have you heard anything about the break in?" Maya points out and then adds one of her big questions.

"No, I haven't heard anything. Sorry. Everyone is sad, but being pretty silent about it. And fine, that is true and if you want the real reason, here it is. I did stop by, last week to be exact and I didn't see Riley so I thought since you guys stopped deliveries, that I must have done something wrong. I mean, we haven't talked in over a month," Lucas admits, shifting from side to side.

Maya closes her eyes for a second, trying to remain calm as of course these two are have to be so damn difficult. "Lucas, you and Riley are very similar and it's adorable and kind of frustrating at the same time," she sighs, shaking her head. "And you didn't do anything wrong, trust me. The reason you didn't see Riley is because, uh, she changed her schedule since the break in. It was a hard hit for all of us. But if you care about her in the way I think you do, please don't give up on her. Come to the store every once in a while to say hello or something. You were and are a great friend to her and she needs that. Now more than ever."

"I won't give up on her. She's special and I like that. I'll try and stop by more. Thanks, Maya," Lucas nods with a small smile.

"You're welcome, Lucas and thanks too. Bye," Maya finishes, giving him a quick wave before they separate.

Maya rushes back inside the store just in time to see Riley and Farkle exiting the back and her timing couldn't be more perfect. The three share a final group hug before Farkle heads out and once the two are alone, Maya steals a fast glance at Riley who actually looks content.

"You okay, Honey?" she whispers as she gently bumps her shoulder against Riley's.

"Yeah, I'm good. Thanks, Peaches. For everything. Especially for holding down the fort after you know what," Riley murmurs softly.

"No need to thank me, Riles. We're partners and best friends and I'll always be here for you. And to be honest, who knew working mornings could be so interesting," Maya lightly chuckles.

"I know and I really truly appreciate that. And haha, I've only been telling you that for years," Riley laughs loudly as that sound is music to Maya's ears. It's been far too long since she's laughed like that.

"Okay, okay, once again you're right. And since you're here, are you going to stay?" Maya wonders.

Riley bites her lower lip, thinking the question over before giving a small nod and replying, "Yeah, I'm staying. I think it's time for things to get back to normal."

"I couldn't agree more," Maya grins happily as the two hug and baby steps are better than nothing.

OoOoOoOo

The next day, Maya calls Josh to tell him the good news about Riley. He's thrilled with the information and decides the three of them will still go out to dinner, but to celebrate instead of having to yank Riley out of her shell. Maya's on board, but it takes some convincing for Riley. Maya talks about it all day and Josh even calls her, asking her as nicely as possible and then practically begs her to come. So, after being worn out from the constant chatter of the two, she finally agrees. Half of her wanting to go and the other half just to get them to shut up. They make plans for this upcoming Saturday and things seem to be slowly falling back into place.

OoOoOoOo

Josh is the first to arrive at the popular, but antiquated bistro right outside of the downtown district as they all needed to get away for a night. He nervously taps his foot as even though tonight will be fun, it may also be slightly uncomfortable as there are things that need to be discussed. But he'll ease into it like the caring and concerned uncle he is.

He sees Riley weaving her way through the tables' seconds later and instantly, his lips curve into a smile as she looks happy. That's all he and their family and friends ever wanted for her. She gives him a quick wave before reaching the table and then walks over to give him a hug.

"Hey Uncle Josh, thanks for arranging this," she beams cheerfully.

"Of course, Riles. I figured we all needed a night out and this gives us the perfect opportunity to have fun and adult conversations," Josh chuckles.

"We could, but with you and Maya, adult conversations is kind of a stretch. You two disagree on almost everything," Riley jokes with a giggle.

"We can act like adults, thank you very much," Josh grumbles as he rolls his eyes. "And speaking of Maya, where is she? I thought the two of you were coming together?"

"That was the plan, but she had to stop by someone's house on the way so we drove separately," Riley explains, taking a sip of water.

"By someone's house, do you mean her boyfriend Noah? You don't have to cover for her Riles. I already know," Josh tells her brusquely.

"Boyfriend? What are you talking about Josh?" Riley inquires with a raised eyebrow.

"Last week she told me she had a hot date with a guy name Noah," Josh repeats in a loud voice.

Riley tries very hard to keep her composure, but the stern look on Josh's face is priceless and she can't help but let out a vey unladylike laugh. "Oh, Uncle Josh. She's totally pulling your chain."

"What?" Josh snaps, glaring at his niece. "Tell me everything."

"She did have plans with a guy named Noah, but he's three years old and a smidge younger than her. She was babysitting for her next door neighbor. And for you to be this worked up over a three year old is kind of funny," Riley shares, the smile never leaving her lips.

"That woman," Josh mumbles under his breath, but loud enough for Riley to hear as he shakes his head in disbelief.

"You two sure are something," Riley states and then looks at the menu as Josh rolls his eyes at her.

He's about to say some snippy remark when Maya suddenly appears and he decides it's better to keep his comments to himself if they wanted a peaceful night.

"I'm so sorry I'm late. I had to make a quick stop. I hope you two weren't waiting too long," Maya apologizes, taking a sit next to Riley and quickly opening her menu.

"No, we weren't. You're fine, My," Riley answers with a soft smile. "Right, Uncle Josh?"

"Right. Riley mentioned it when she arrived and the two of us were just chatting," Josh adds simply before the waiter walks over to their table.

They all order drinks. Much needed drinks if you ask me. Josh, a strong shot of whiskey. Maya, a cosmopolitan. And Riley, an iced tea. Once the waiter returns with their drinks, they place their order and then talk about life and random things. The girls talk about how great it was to see Farkle and reminisce about the past and Josh talks about a coworker who wants to rent a party bus for his birthday.

They laugh about everything and before they know it, their food is being served and the conversations obviously shifts to food and the best food item on the planet. Of course Maya and Josh argue over the best kind of food with Maya quickly claiming it's pizza because everybody loves pizza while Josh goes in the other direction and goes with burgers and fries, America's classics. They both want Riley's opinion, but she's smart enough not to get in the middle of it and claims spaghetti, or any type of pasta is the best. The two look at her with wide eyes, like they couldn't believe she just said that and then go back to their conversation.

Riley should have stopped their bickering when it went past the ten minute mark, but this is their normal and she wouldn't have it any other way. With a smile on her lips, she continues to eat and listen to their outrageous conversation until the dessert menu comes. That immediately shuts them both up and things become civilized once again as the three of them decide you can't go wrong with a chocolate molten cake.

The topic shifts again and they talk about the store. Maya carefully eyes Josh as he asks about the classes and all that, but Riley answers with a smile and it seems like things are going in a good direction. Their cake arrives a few minutes later with now all three talking about the store and quickly bouncing ideas off one another for new projects and classes they can offer. Riley excitedly pulls out her phone and starts making notes until Josh says the one sentence that stops everything.

"So, you're going to start deliveries again?"

Riley's expression suddenly drops to a blank, stoic one as she mutters, "Yes, I guess I'll have to."

"Riles, it's okay. And remember what we talked about a few months ago? We're not going to let that she-devil win and Lucas is your friend. There's nothing wrong with being friends with him," Maya gently soothes before narrowing her eyes at Josh.

"Yes there is!" Riley shouts loud enough to grab the attention from the few tables around them and then quickly waves an apology. "There is and you wouldn't understand."

"Then help us understand, Riley. We care about you, love you and only want you to be happy," Josh utters tenderly as he reaches over to place his hand on top of hers.

"I don't deserve to be happy and everyone I care about, with maybe the exception of the two of you, gets hurt because of me. I can't risk that. I won't risk that," Riley whispers harshly, her eyes getting watery, but she keeps it together for the most part.

"That's not true, Honey. You can-," Maya starts to firmly counter back before getting cut off.

"It is true, Maya. Lucas could get hurt by me because I know for a fact that Missy has something up her sleeve and my parents died because of me. I was fine living in my own bubble and feeling guilty and broken about everything, but no, you two had to push me out of it and now look at me! I'm more of a mess and still fighting demons!" Riley wails, jumping out of her seat and runs out of the restaurant.

Maya and Josh look stunned and heartbroken at each other as this wasn't how the night was supposed to go. In a blink of an eye, Maya's out of her chair and pulling Josh out of his, holding the front of his shirt in a tight grip and bringing him eye to eye with her as she hisses, "We need a plan and we need one quick. We have to fix this no matter what it takes and the next time you want talk about a sensitive topic, let me know before hand so I can tell you no and kick your ass," before sprinting after Riley.


And there you go folks! Hope you liked it and if you have any idea/suggestions for this or any of my other stories, leave me a review or PM me!

Thanks and until next time,

Missy xx