Hey everyone! I cannot thank you guys enough for all love support on this story! It means the world to me and I'm excited for this crazy journey!

For all my awesome loyal Joshaya fans, you guys are awesome and make me smile J Most you had the same idea for the end and I'm sorry to disappoint. BUT…just keep reading and I'm sure you'll enjoy it!

And also, I apologize for the sadness of the last chapter. I'm sorry it was a shock and surprise, but I had that idea from the beginning and it had to be something huge for Riley to be so reserved and cautious. Thanks for understanding and hopefully happier moments will come!

Lastly, if you guys are up for it and want to do it (I'm not sure if it did this on this story or not) but if you have any questions you want to ask me (personal or story wise) I'll answer honestly and to the best of my ability!

It's Allie: Right! Maya is always trying to help Riley (along with Farkle and Josh) and that was funny, huh! Josh totally deserved it and it's always so fun to write them! Who knows…lol. Haha, Riley's so used to them bickering and I actually thinks she likes it. And probably not…lol. Dinner was definitely crazy and answers will be coming! I know. I'm sorry! Of course, thank you for reading this and that means a lot. AND it's totally fine to be greedy! It forces me to write and give you guys' hopefully awesome chapters!

madelinecoffee: Thank you, Riley will be an evolution and here it is!

I'mJustAnotherDreamer: He definitely deserved to squirm and me too. Jealous Josh is always fun! I know the ending was a shock, so sorry and poor Riley indeed. Totally wasn't Josh fault, but remember, Riley was in a conflict with what to do with Lucas…and don't worry. Answers are coming! You're welcome and thank you too.

Jen2000: Most definitely fun and true, things were going so well. Right! He totally deserved it and jealous Josh is always fun! Haha, you can totally picture his face. You know, who knows what those two know…maybe we push the envelope and sees what happens?! I know…writing about Corpanga broke my heat too, for them and Riley. Mama Bear Maya always knows and definitely big reveal. I hope you liked it, hope the wait wasn't too long and thank you such!

someday00293: Thank you and like I mentioned, it always fun writing jealous Josh and bickering Joshaya. Definitely siding with Maya too! The age of Maya's boyfriend was super fun to throw in and you're so welcome! Love them too! It's good to have Riley back to and I know, I'm sorry! Take all the time you need and yeah! Joshaya needs to work together! Thank you so much and again, sorry!

Brenna: That's Joshaya for ya! Always pushing each other's buttons. Maybe…and I think so too! The age was fun to add and I know, major 180 turn at dinner. I'm sorry for the shock and answers will be coming! You're welcome, thank you and here it is!

Laugh instead: Thank you! He totally deserved it and jealous Josh is fun! Haha, a picture would have been awesome, darn…she likes their bickering and that's a good point, but I'll never tell…lol. Yep, things were going in the right direction and them bam….sorry for the shock. Yeah, the question was harmless, but remember, Riley was in a conflict on what to do with Lucas. But don't worry, answers are coming and I hope my PM was okay. I enjoyed our conversation and thanks for the idea! You're welcome and I'm glad!

joshaya00423: Oh, totally. Those two always push one another and that whole 'date/age/jealousy' was fun to write! Riley back at the store and dinner were good and then I know…sorry. But don't worry, answers are coming! And here it is, hopefully it wasn't that long of a wait.

MilesAndMilesToGo: Thank you and he definitely deserved it! It's always fun to write jealous Josh and I think that's everyone favorite too! I know and who knows what could have happened if she was their when Riley told the truth. Maya will always have Riley's best interest and with protective Maya, you better watch out…lol. Yeah, he wasn't expecting that either and true, he's always been the calm and reasonable one. And most definitely caring. He will feel bad and don't worry, answers will be coming!

xxAmy: Joshaya definitely needs to and thanks, but don't worry. Answers will be coming soon. That's true, someone or people are still out there and maybe…who knows. You're welcome and I'm glad, thank you. Haha, you're welcome and that was definitely fun to write!

Guest: Here you go!

TalkingInMySleep: I know and I'm sorry! Maya definitely was a character in this chapter and it was fun to write. She'll always have Riley's back and will always push Josh. I think so too! They definitely need a plan and answers will be coming! I'm glad you're welcome!

Enjoy!


After watching Maya run out the door of the restaurant in a frenzy, Josh hastily rushes to their waiter who unfortunately is with another table, shoves his credit card in the other man's hand and demands that their bills gets paid immediately as there is an emergency. The waiter looks between Josh and the other customers who instantly nod and wave that it's okay and then walks away in a hurry.

"I'm very sorry for interrupting your dinner," Josh apologizes quickly before he starts to follow the waiter.

"Wait! I mean, excuse me", the woman shyly calls out, stopping Josh's movement.

"Yes?" he questions in confusion.

"I know you're in a rush, but you were with those two girls who just ran out, right?" the woman, who Josh now realizes looks to be around his mother's age asks.

"Yeah," Josh sighs, rubbing the back of his neck.

"I, um, I just wanted to say I'm sorry for whatever troubles you three are going through and I hope it all works out," the woman smiles softly and Josh finds himself smiling back.

"Thank you. That really means a lot and I hope so too. Have a great rest of your evening," Josh finishes, giving the couple one last smile and nod and then rushes off to find his waiter.

When he does finds the waiter seconds later, he holds out Josh's credit card and check as Josh leaves a very generous tip and signs a sloppy signature.

"Thank you. I appreciate your help and I'm sorry for interrupting. Have a good night," Josh say swiftly, placing his card back in his wallet and pulling out his car keys.

"It's not a problem, sir. I saw what happened. Good luck and have a good evening as well," the waiter nods and then sprints back to his waiting tables.

Josh speedily walks out the door, runs to his car and once inside, puts the petal to the metal as he has to get to Riley. And Maya. And he doesn't care if he gets a ticket. This is serious. Luckily for him, he doesn't get pulled over, makes the thirty minute drive in about fifteen and after finding a parking spot right behind Maya's car, he bolts up the stairs two at a time and lets himself in Riley's apartment with the key she gave him.

The second he closes the door behind him, he hears Riley's muffled voice coming from behind a door and Maya's soft pleading voice and knows this will be a long night. He follows the voices and once he passes a wall by the front door, he sees Maya sitting on the ground in front of Riley's bedroom door.

"Please come out, Riles. We need to talk," Maya sighs.

"No! We don't need to talk about anything. Go home, Maya!" Riley yells back.

"No luck?" Josh whispers when he's right behind Maya, scaring her and causing her to hit her head against the door.

"It's about damn time you showed up, Matthews," Maya hisses as she rubs the side of her head.

"Sorry about your head and I would have been right behind you, but someone had to pay the bill," Josh explains, rolling his eyes as he sits down next to her.

"Oh, right," Maya mumbles. "I'll pay for my share and thanks for taking care of it."

"It's not a problem and dinner is on me so don't worry about it," Josh waves off, giving her a small smile and then looks towards the door. "How's it going with her?"

"As well as you think it could be going considering she broke down at dinner. And at least she talking. That's progress," Maya answers honestly.

"Thanks for being here with her. I'll give it a try and if nothing works, we need a plan," Josh says and then gently knocks on the door. "Riley? Can we talk?"

"Ugh...not you too Uncle Josh. And no, we can't talk. I just want to be alone right now. Can't you see that?" Riley groans loudly.

"We figured that since you locked yourself in your bedroom, but we can't leave you, Riles. Now when you're like this. We'll give you some space, but we'll still be here in the morning and we're going to talk," Josh settles in a firm tone as he gets up from the floor and offers Maya a hand.

She looks at Josh's hand, back to the door and then reluctantly take Josh's hand with a sigh. The two quietly walk to the kitchen as Josh takes a seat at Riley's small dining table and Maya leans against the sink counter.

"Do you think us being here is a smart choice?" Maya wonders, looking down at her feet.

"Honestly, I don't know. I don't want her to feel trapped since we know she gets upset when people interfere in her life, but I don't to be anywhere else tonight," Josh retorts softly.

"Same here," Maya nods in agreement. "Do you think this pattern is going to change?"

"I hope so. Things were going so good for a while, but now I think the biggest hurdle is her learning trust herself and know it's okay to let others in. She needs to have that loving relationship once again. We're lucky to have relationships with her, but us, Farkle and our family can't be the only ones. She deserves so much more," Josh continues as silence takes over for a few seconds.

"You're right. She does deserve more, but that's a long way away. You ready for another uphill battle?" Maya questions with smirk.

"I'm always ready. And hey, I know you're spending the night so I hope you don't mind, but I'm staying too. You can have the spare bedroom and I'll sleep on the couch," Josh says trying to accommodate Maya.

"It's not a problem and I figured you would be here. Thanks for offering, but with everything that's happened, I don't know how much sleep I can get. I was actually going to watch some TV for a while. Want to join me?" Maya offers in a tentative voice.

"I know what you mean and that sounds fun. I'd like that, thanks. Want me to grab the wine and popcorn?" Josh asks with a knowing grin.

"Yes please!" Maya eagerly cheers with a smile. "You know me so well."

"That I do," Josh chuckles as he shakes his head. "I'll be out in few minutes."

"Sounds good. And Josh-," Maya utters, her tone shifting to something more serious and instantly gets Josh's attention.

"Yeah?" He inquires with a raised eyebrow.

"Thank you. Not just for tonight, but for always being here for Riley. And for me," Maya reveals in a tone that shakes Josh's core.

"I'll always be here for you both. No matter what happens and what craziness gets in our way," Josh promises again as the reply makes Maya heart skip a beat.

Not being able to find the right words without ruining the moment, Maya just gives a half smile and nod before walking out of the kitchen. Josh watches her leave and suddenly realizes that they just had a serious, intimate conversation. There were no jabs, insults or bickering involved and he's actually very pleased with the change. See, they can have a civil conversation without arguments! If only Riley could have witnessed it. But sadly, she's the reason why they are both in her apartment tonight. To pull her out of the darkness and towards the light at the end of the tunnel. He knows the pain she's lived with for the past twelve years. He's lived it too. But now, it's time to let go of it once and for all.

He walks around Riley's medium size kitchen, grabbing the wine glasses and popcorn all while thinking of the perfect plan. The first thing that comes to mind is some sort of therapy or counseling. But he knows how much she dislikes that. While she was living with him and his parents, her grandparents, his mother thought grief counseling would be the right course of action to help Riley deal with the horrible accident, but after only two meetings, she cried and begged not to go back. So reluctantly, but understanding, his parents agreed and let her cope in her own way. She did go back eventually, a few years later and it did seem to help so maybe that's what she needs again. To talk to someone with an open mind and where she can just vent her anger, sadness and guilt without them trying to make her feel better. He'll talk to Maya about this and hopefully the two of them can come up with something that works all around.

By the time he's done with his 'plan', the popcorn is finished and he joins Maya who is already half lounging on the couch and is hooked on an episode of "Chopped" on the Food Network. The only network they agree on. He gently placed the tray of snacks and wine in front of her as she mumbles a 'thank you' without looking away from the TV.

He whispers back, "You're welcome," and settles next to her on the couch once she repositions herself as he too quickly gets absorbed in the show.

He's not sure on how many episodes they've watched before he feels Maya's head fall onto his left shoulder. Taking a fast glance at her and then his watch, he's surprised it's almost two in the morning, that Maya fell asleep on him and that he's not tired. He debates if he should move her to the spare bedroom, but when he shifts to really look at her, she somehow cuddles closer into his side.

"Okay. I'll let her sleep a little bit longer before I wake her up. She's had a long day," he says to himself and goes right back to watching the show to see who wins.

OoOoOoOo

"Um, what's going on here?" A soft, but stern voice questions, waking Josh up as he slowly opens his eyes to sunlight and Riley staring down at him.

"What?" he grumbles and tries to sit up, but has pressure on his left side. Hurriedly, he looks over to see what's holding him down and spots Maya asleep at his side. "It's not what you think."

"And what is it that I think?" Riley inquires with a raised eyebrow.

"I, uh. Maya wake up. Riley's here," Josh announces in a loud voice and gently shakes the sleeping blonde.

Sluggishly rubbing the sleep from her eyes, Maya sits up and groans, "What's with all the yelling?" as she stretches out her body and catches two pair of eyes staring at her. "What? Why are you two looking at me like that?"

"Oh, no reason," Riley grins as she walks.

"Speak, Matthews. What's with the stares?" Maya presses, glaring at the brunette.

"Riley found us asleep on the couch. Together. You looked quite comfy, snuggled into my side," Josh answers simply.

"I was not comfortable sleeping on you," Maya fires back as she gets up and scowls down at him.

"Was too. You fell asleep on me and I obviously fell asleep before I was supposed to take you to the spare bedroom," Josh repeats as he too stands up and the two are in an intense staring contest.

Neither have moved and when Riley returns with three cups of coffee, she sighs and calls out, "Okay, children. There's no need to argue. You two fell asleep out here together and it's not a big deal. It was actually cute. But that's not what we're discussing right now. Please, sit down," as she makes her way in front of the two and places the small tray on the table between them.

"We don't speak of this ever again," Maya growls as she and Josh both sit back down on the couch and on opposite sides.

"Riley, what you saw wasn't cute, but whatever. How are feeling?"

"I'm better. I really am. I'm sorry for my behavior and outburst last night at the restaurant and I'm sorry for blocking you two out when you guys came over to be with me. I just, I can't seem to to get over the past," Riley confesses sadly.

"Don't worry about your actions last night. It's understandable given what you have been through. It was traumatic and we're not asking to get over the past. We know it will always be there, but you can't continue to live in fear. We want you to open your heart again to all the good things that could come. Your parents were and still are some of the best people I know and now it's time to live for them. What happened to them wasn't your fault, you have to know that," Josh joins the conversation, his heart aching for everyone.

"How can you say that Uncle Josh! It was my fault. I was the one asking all sorts of questions, complaining about Auggie because he wanted to play with me and taking my dad's attention away from the road. If I was asleep or something, he would have seen that car coming and everyone would still be alive," Riley shouts in frustration as tears are running down her cheeks.

"Riles. My sweet, sweet, Riles. You didn't cause the accident. That turn was dad was taking was a blind corner and the other driver was driving well over the speed limit. It was the other drivers fault for driving recklessly. Your dad was focused and no matter what you you think, something would have happened anyways given the circumstances," Josh tells her again even though it's hard to hear and gets up from his seat, bringing Riley into his arms as she soaks his shirt.

"I just wish I could go back to that day and change it," she whispers, clinging to Josh.

"I know. I know. We miss them too, so much. I wish your family could have been here your accomplishments. Mine and Maya accomplishments. For everything good in Eric, Morgan, mom and dad's life. But I know they're looking down at us and are very proud of the people we've become. You have Cory's vision and kindness and you have Topanga's determination and strength. And that's a hell of a thing! You're destined to do great things and you will. We all know and believe it," Josh murmurs, kissing Riley's hair.

"Thank you, Uncle Josh. For everything. I'm going to try and be the person my parents raised me to be. I'm going to be fearless and confident," Riley states firmly as she gives her uncle one last hug before pulling away from him and wipes her cheek with her hands, pulling herself together.

"That's a perfect first step. And maybe it'd be a good idea for you to talk to someone unbiased. Someone who can help you understand things differently," Josh suggests cautiously, watching Riley's reaction.

The room goes silent for a minute or two before Riley settles, "I'll definitely think about it."

"Good. That's all I ask. Now, how about breakfast? I'm starving," Josh switches subjects as his stomach lets out a loud rumbling noise.

"That's an excellent idea, Matthews," Maya agrees as the three grab their wallets, phones and the girls grab their purses and head out the door to their favorite place.

Breakfast is nice, quiet. And Riley really is taking into consideration Josh's suggestion and how to change her outlook. But she also has to this on her own terms. When she's finally ready to let everything go.

Later that afternoon, the store is busy and Riley is grateful for the distraction. This store and what she's giving her customers is what her parents always taught her. To find something you love and others will follow in your passion. And she couldn't have done it without Maya and Josh. She owes those two more than they'll ever know because they supported her and gave her an outlet and a place to call home.

Once the crowds have thinned out a bit and the sun is starting to set, the door opens and as Riley is about to greet the customer, her jaw drops in shock.

"Uh, um. Hi, Lucas," she stammers and feels her cheeks heating up.

"Hey, Riley. I'm sorry to stop by this late, but I, um, just wanted to see how you were doing," he says timidly as he rubs the back of his neck.

"It's not, it's not a problem. I'm sorry I've been M.I.A for a while, but I'm doing good. Well, better. Thank you for asking. How are you?" Riley retorts as she shifts from side to side.

"I'm good. Work keeps me busy," Lucas answers simply with a shrug of his shoulders.

"I'm glad to hear that. And uh, I hope things won't be too awkward between us since I'm starting deliveries again," Riley mentions and then bites her lower lip.

"No, of course not. That's great. But Riley, listen. I understand why you stopped deliveries, but was kind of caught off guard when I stopped seeing you. I thought I did something wrong and as girly as this sounds, I was a little hurt. I thought we were becoming friends," Lucas confesses, looking right at the sad, but still beautiful brunette.

"We are becoming friends, Lucas and I'm sorry I made you feel that way. It's just, dang it...don't hate me but it's not you, it's me. I knows that's the most overplayed quote in the world, but it's the truth. I have trust issues and a hard time opening up to people. But I'm trying to change that and I really appreciate how awesome you've been. All I'm asking for is a little more patience," Riley professes and feel anxious, but not as scared as she thought for sharing something very personal with someone she doesn't know very well.

"I'm sorry to hear that. If you ever need another ear, I'm always here to listen and to help. And Riley, thank you for telling me. You're a very strong woman for admitting flaws and that makes you even more beautiful. We all have our faults, it's just that some are easier to deal with than others. We're only human after all," Lucas remarks with a small smile.

"Thank you, Lucas. And you're right. Everyone has something they've dealt with or will have to deal with. I'm slowly learning I don't have to stop living my life because something terrible happened. Also, would you, um, be up for restarting our breakfast get togethers?" Riley questions with hopefulness.

"I would like that very much. I'm off tomorrow, but I can still stop by if that's okay with you," Lucas offers, his normal, charming smile shining through.

"Oh, I wouldn't want to take away from your day off," Riley instantly stops him.

"I don't mind. I don't have much going on, but if you're not comfortable with that I understand," Lucas backtracks, not wanting to burden Riley.

"No, no. It's fine. I'll see you tomorrow and I'll bring breakfast," Riley says, taking charge for once.

"Riley-," Lucas starts before getting cut off.

"Please, Lucas. Think of this as my apology and thank you," Riley explains with a grin.

"Okay, fine. Thank you. But all next week, breakfast is on me and there are no arguments," Lucas settles with a firm stance.

"Oh, okay. If you're sure," Riley sighs with a raised eyebrow.

"I am," Lucas laughs, the deep sound making Riley smile and sends her heart to flutter. "I'll see you tomorrow."

"See you tomorrow," Riley nods as Lucas give a quick wave and smile before exiting the store.

OoOoOoOo

The next morning, bright and early, Riley, Maya and Josh are at opening the store as Lucas joins them minutes later.

"Hey, man. It's good to see you," Josh smiles as the two guys shake hands.

"Good to see you too. And you too, Maya," Lucas nods as Riley comes out from the back with boxes of pastries.

"Aw, Lucas. You really did miss us," Maya teases as she places a hand over her heart.

"Don't push it, Maya," Lucas warns, but still has a smile on his face.

"I see some things haven't changed," Riley chuckles and shakes her head. "But it's nice to be back on a normal routine."

"I agree. And since Lucas is here, maybe he can help me move those shelves into the other room for your classes," Josh announces, eating his croissant.

"Yeah, I can help. It's no problem," Lucas responds as the two guys quickly shove the remaining pieces of food into their mouths and head towards the back.

Once they are gone, Maya turns to Riley and asks, "So, how are you feeling, Honey?"

"Good. A lot better, Peaches," Riley answers honestly.

"I'm happy to hear that. See, isn't it nice to have people on your life?" Maya probes, winking at her best friend who is now flustered and blushing.

"Maya! It's not like that. We're friends, like you suggested and forced," Riley hisses.

"Friendship can also lead to more," Maya sings in a happy tone as she walks away and leaves Riley's mind racing.

For the rest of the week, Riley tries to focus on herself and the store, but Maya's words seem to always pop back into her mind at the worst of times and it doesn't help that she sees Lucas mostly every day. Being friends with Lucas, she can pretty much handle. Thinking past that, she's nowhere near ready. She's never look towards the future and never had a guy thrown into the mix. It's a scary thought and one she wants to forget. And hopefully the others will to.

OoOoOoOo

Weeks pass by and everything finally feels like it's back to normal. The store is doing really well. The art classes are so popular both girls have to rearrange their schedules to fit more of them in. And even Missy has been pleasant. Er, maybe pleasant isn't the right word, but she's been civil and hasn't given Riley any more problems. So that's a plus in her book.

Over the weeks, deliveries continue to come and that's the best part of Riley's day, though she would never say that out loud. And having breakfast with Lucas has been incredible. She has quickly come to realize that he really is a good guy who cares and doesn't push for questions when she becomes silent from their conversations. And when he wants to be, he is kind of funny. Their conversations are always genuine and they learn new things about each other every time they talk. She learns that Lucas grew up in Texas and has a farm. Well, a family farm that's run by his grandfather. And he learns Riley is a movie fanatic and can quote quite a lot a lines and references. They laugh and have a good time with one another and Riley actually feels like a twenty-four year old young woman.

The next morning say their normal goodbyes like every other morning and once the truck drives away, Riley pulls out her necklace from under her shirt and holds it tightly in hand and says in a whisper, "Mom, dad, Auggie. I miss you all every day and I love you so much, but I'm scared. Should I really take a chance on Lucas? He's a great person, but I don't know," when suddenly, the loud rumbling noise breaks her thoughts and she sees Lucas' truck back in front of her store.

Rushing to the door, she opens it and Lucas walks straight inside with a serious expression on his face.

"Is everything okay, Lucas?" she wonders in concern.

"Everything's fine. I forgot my scanner and have a question for you," Lucas replies, his demeanor still tall stern.

Riley swiftly looks around the room, spots the black rectangular object sitting on her counter and walks over to retrieve it.

"Here you go," she smiles as she hands it over him. "And what would you like to ask?"

"Date. You and me," Lucas blurts our.

"What?" Riley inquires back in shock.

"That came out all wrong, sorry. Let me try this again. Would you like to go on a date with me? It doesn't have to be fancy or anything. We can do coffee or lunch," Lucas asks nervously as maybe the second time will be the charm.

"A date?" Riley repeats softly. "I, oh. Okay, yes. I'll go out with you," and then gives him a shy smile.

"Really?" Lucas confirms with excitement.

"Really," Riley nods and then walks over to kiss his cheek.

"Great! We can plan something over breakfast tomorrow," Lucas offers, his smile taking over his whole face.

"Sounds good," Riley agrees happily.

"Okay, bye!" Lucas concludes, giving Riley a hug that lifts her off the ground and then walks out the store with a bounce in his step.

Riley giggles to herself and thinks, 'Okay, things are really getting better for me.'

But of course, she has the worst luck. That weekend, only days after she and Lucas set a day for their date and things were looking up, the back and side of Changing Strokes was vandalized once again with spray paint and paint covering every inch of the building and crude and awful 'drawings' front and center.


And there you go folks! Please let me know what you think and if you have any ideas/suggestions, leave a review or PM me!

Thanks and until next time,

Missy xx