Hey everyone! First off, I'm sorry for the long delay. Life is busy and I was trying to write the best possible chapter, but I'm not sure about this one. So, I hope you guys like it!

Secondly, to all the supporters and reviews, THANK YOU! They mean so much to me and I truly love you all so much! You all push me to be a better writer.

Thirdly, for those of you who are patiently waiting for my other stories, I'm getting to them as fast as possible! Don't give up yet!

Fourthly, thanks to somuchlovexoxo, I'm taking part in Joshaya appreciation week and am very excited for you all the read all the amazing stories we'll have!

And lastly, a special shout out to somuchlovexoxo and Laugh instead for being so amazing and for letting me bounce ideas off of you both! Thank you for being incredible friends!

Guest: Here you go! Sorry fir it being so late!

It's Allie: Hehe, definitely! So cute, I had a blast writing it and of course! And that's exactly what I was going for. I knew I had to add some sweet moments to balance it out! Yes! That was my favorite part too! I love when stories have that one moment of fate. You'd be correct and don't worry! You'll just have to keep reading and you're welcome! Thank you too for all the support!

I'mJustAnotherDreamer: It was awesome and I loved writing it! Everything about them is sweet and complicated and you'll definitely get more. Yes, our poor Riley has had to deal with a lot and I loved that small sign. It was needed. And don't worry! Keep reading to find out and I'm so happy to hear that!

Laugh instead: Yes, see! I loved that part and don't worry. Haha, they would totally do that too, if needed! I might add that somewhere else. Thanks! Loved writing all that Joshaya! It was definitely needed and the picture would have been a great idea…thank you. Glad you liked it!

MilesAndMilesToGo: That was perfectly said and who knows! Joshaya was fun to write. That was exactly what Riley needed and just keep reading!

someday00293: Right! Lol, thank you! Yes, definitely the sign she needed. Joshaya was so fun to write in this chapter and just keep reading! I'm glad liked it and you're welcome! Thank you for all the support!

madelinecoffee: Aw, I'm so happy to hear that! Me too and right?! Thank you so much and will do. That means so much to me!

Jen2000: Yes, yes, and yes! I loved writing the Joshaya moments and I happy you liked it! I know, Riley has a lot on her shoulders, but don't worry. Loved the Corpanga scene and just keep reading! Thank you and you have no idea how happy that makes me to hear that!

xaviorismy1andonly3512: That would be next step and don't worry!

Guest: Aw, thank you so much! I'm so glad to hear that. Me too and I hope you like it!

TalkingInMySleep: Yes, yes, most definitely and don't worry. Thank you and I loved writing it. I love moments like that! I loved writing Joshaya and haha, you call it whatever you'd like! I'm glad you liked it and hope you like this too!

joshaya00423: That is very true. I'll think of something! And just keep reading to find out! Don't worry and yep! And of course the sign was the perfect thing! I would never skip what a reviewer writes and I'm so happy you liked the Joshaya moments. I loved writing it! And you're review made me smile!

Brenna: Haha, I like the way you think and totally right! Don't worry and I'm excited too! So happy you liked the Joshaya moments and I loved writing them! Don't worry and thank you!

xxAmy: definitely happy bones! I loved writing Joshaya! Probably and I'm glad to hear that! It was good to see Riley getting back to her normal self and loved sign moment. It was sweet and much needed. You'll just have to keep reading and thank you!

somuchlovexoxo: Maybe? Who knows and Riley should call them out! That would be fun! Thanks for the idea! Riley definitely had a hard life and right?! Joshaya really steps and they are her family! Very true and don't worry!

WeAllFallDown2003: Loved writing Joshaya and haha, that's definitely a guy for you!

Whenitsover: Ooh, maybe?! I love your reasoning and I loved writing Joshaya! I liked the sign moment! It was sweet and much needed. You'll just have to keep reading and wow, you're awesome! I'm so happy you like this and thank you, thank you!

Guest: Here it is! Sorry it was late!

Enjoy!


At the first sight of the ugly and horrific scene on their store wall, everyone's first reactions are anger, but while Maya is still fuming with a strong urge to attack, Riley finds herself composing her thoughts and looking at the bright side of things. Which is a first for her.

"I'm so sorry, Riles. This is fucked up and I'm working on fixing it," Josh quickly assures his niece.

"Thank you, Uncle Josh. I appreciate your help," Riley responds in a calm tone.

"Of course. You know I'm always here for you. But what I don't understand is why your store is the only target," Josh growls out.

"I don't know why either, Uncle Josh. The first thing that comes to mind is just some kids having fun. Maybe we took over their hangout spot or something. This building was empty for a while before we came," Riley starts to list off, her demeanor surprising Josh. But it also makes him smile as it's nice to see the happier, more positive side of Riley again. "And also, we are not the only place that got targeted. The restaurant across the street and the shoe store both have graffiti on their buildings."

Josh turns around to see that Riley's right. Both places look exactly like the store and he bites his tongue from saying more because he can't complain anymore. "Do you want to press charges?" he questions gently, needing to ask, but already knowing what the answer will be.

"No. And I'm not just saying that. The first incident was hard to shallow, no doubt. And this is disturbing, but nothing has really been damaged. We just need to wash it off and from here on out, be careful and keep our eyes open. Maybe if this continues, we can all come together and each give a statement. That will probably hold more attention than just one or two," Riley justifies, wanting to make this as easy as possible.

"Okay. Sounds like a plan. But if you ever want to take matters into your own hands, you know I always have your back," Josh comforts her, giving her a quick hug before walking away to deal with the mess.

OoOoOoOo

Four days later and dressed casually in a peach sweater top, ankle pants and black flats for her date with Lucas, Riley restlessly paces around the store as Maya can't help but smile. "Honey, if you keep walking in the same path, there's going to be a hole in our floor."

"Haha, Peaches," Riley laughs dryly. "For some reason I can't stay still."

"I can see that. And it's perfectly normal to be nervous on the first date. Just remember to be yourself and have fun," Maya calmly suggests, giving her best friend a happy smile.

"It's easy for you to say. You're not a complete mess when it comes to stuff like this," Riley snaps back, her nerves now on overdrive as she's thinking even more about this date and how it can go wrong in so many ways.

"Now, now. There's no need to bite my head off. I was only trying to help and since we're being honest, I'm sure I'd be the same as you. My nerves would be haywire and I'm sure I'd cuss someone out to ease my mind because if you haven't noticed, I haven't been on a date in a while too," Mays adds to the conversation with a sigh.

"Oh, My. I didn't mean for that to come out that way," Riley quickly apologizes and walks to over to hug Maya.

"It's fine, Riles. I'm not mad and you know, you've actually made me realize it's time to live my life as well. So, I'm going to put myself out there and see what happens," Maya states firmly with a proud nod.

"That's amazing, Maya! You deserve to be happy and any guy would be lucky to have you in their life!" Riley beams with happiness.

"Thanks, Honey. That means a lot to me, but I wouldn't celebrate just yet. We still have a long ways to go. But enough about me. Today is about you and your date will be here any second and you deserve to be happy too. Lucas is a nice guy, so don't be afraid to open yourself up to him. Not literally though," Maya says sternly as Riley gasps in shock.

"Maya Penelope!" she shouts out as her cheeks turn red.

"Kidding, kidding. I mean, you don't have to tell him everything about you on this date. But in the near future when you two have a solid relationship because I see this as a future thing," Maya winks as they see Lucas pulling up front of the store.

Riley gives Maya a quick hug goodbye and then walks out to greet Lucas who has a bouquet of flowers for her.

"Oh, Lucas! These are beautiful," Riley gushes sweetly and with a smile as he hands them over to her and she lifts the bunch up to her nose and inhales the lovely fragrance. "Thank you."

"You're welcome, Riley. When I saw them, I thought of you. Sweet, bright and beautiful," Lucas confesses in a soft voice.

"Oh, Lucas! That's so sweet," Riley murmurs, feeling her heartbeat increase.

"It's the truth and I hope I didn't overstep. I know this is our, um, first date and all," Lucas mumbles shyly as he rubs the back of his neck.

"No, you most certainly did not overstep. I like your openness and honesty. And I like the flowers. A lot. You're a very incredible man, Lucas," Riley smiles, moving closer to kiss his cheek.

Lucas gives her a hug in return as Maya suddenly appears outside the store and takes the flowers from Riley. "Nice work, Cowboy. I'll take these inside and put them in a pretty vase. You two run along and have fun. But not too much fun," winking at the couple.

"Goodbye, Maya!" Riley announces loudly and not so gently pushes her friend back towards the store as her cheeks are bright red.

Once the two settle into Lucas' car, he drives them the short distance to the cafe they decided on for lunch and as they walk inside to see a fairly packed restaurant, Riley has to clench her fists together to stay calm.

They're seated immediately as Lucas made a reservation and are taken towards a table in the back, away from the crowds and Riley's grateful for the distance.

"I hope you don't mind sitting back here," Lucas says nervously as he sets down his menu.

"No, it's great. I, um, I don't tell many people this, but sometimes crowds overwhelm me," Riley admits and lets out a shaky breath.

"I understand. Thank you for sharing that with me and for trusting me. I'll always make sure you are comfortable and safe. And I'll let you in on a secret about me. Horror movies scare the crap out of me," Lucas whispers so the others around them can't hear him.

"Seriously?" Riley grins, her smile soft teasing. "Who knew a big, strong guy like you doesn't like scary movies."

"I get the sense that you're mocking me," Lucas pouts, raising an eyebrow up at her.

"No, no. Not at all," Riley quickly promises him, her smile still plastered on her face. "It's just, uh, you know that all that stuff is fake, right?"

"Of course I know it's fake! But you try convincing a seven year old boy that when his family lives on a farm with lots of acreage and a barn. I swear I wouldn't be outside or even enter the barn at night until I was like fifteen," Lucas shudders with shivers running up his back.

"I can see that being hard for you. Thank you for sharing that with me. So, what else are you afraid of?" Riley giggles as their waiter comes to take their orders and they spend the next two hours talking and getting to know each other.

For the first time in a long time, Riley's never felt this calm talking and hanging out with someone who isn't family or her best friends, but Lucas is different. His easiness with people and relaxed manners make him suddenly a part of her group and Maya was right. He's a good person who is also a great friend and that exactly what she needs in her life.

OoOoOoOo

The days following their date, Lucas stops by more often and Riley's smile becomes contagious and that's the cherry on top of Maya's awesome plan. All she's ever wanted was for her best friend to be happy. And Riley is slowly getting there. One day and smile at a time. All thanks to a certain someone's help.

But even with the good mood around the store, Maya still feels a sense of uneasiness. Especially at night when she's locking up the store. The attack on the other stores put her more on guard of her surrounds and even when there's no one around, she feels like she's being watched. It bothers her and pisses her off, but at this point, she can't do anything about it without real evidence.

Days turn into weeks and with nothing happening to the store in a while, Maya feels like it's the perfect time to do her own investigating. She is just about to pull out her notepad when her cellphone starts ringing. Mumbling a curse under her breath, she really wants to ignore it, but it could be Riley who's at a meeting with Josh talking about more investments to the store, or her mother checking in on her. But when she sees the name flash across the screen, her lips turn up into a smile as she greets, "Well, well, well. If it isn't one of my favorite people."

"Hello to you too, Maya. You know I'll always love you," the person retorts with a chuckle.

"As will I. So, what's going on on your end? I hope things are okay with the company," Maya wonders curiously.

"Things are fine. Well, at least for the most part. I'm actually calling for more of a personal conversation. Do you have a few free minutes?" the person questions nervously.

"I always have time for you, Farkle, you know that. And you sound serious. Are you sure things are okay?" Maya inquires, now with concern.

"Everything is fine. Really. It's just, I talked to Riley last week and she seemed happy. Very happy. But then she mentioned problems with the store," Farkle shares in a soft voice.

"Well, things with Riley are good and she is happy. Lucas has been exactly what she needs to break free from her past. As for the store, some crazy shit has been happening all around here," Maya addresses but doesn't go into details.

"What kind of crazy stuff, Maya? Are you in danger over there? Is it safe to stay there? I know your funds are a little tight right now and you can't afford a good security system, but I can help you girls out if you need me. Anything at all, just let me know. You three are family and family always support each other," Farkle declares firmly.

"I know and thank you so much! We appreciate all the support you have given us over the years. It means more than you know. But right now, I think we need to do this on our own. And Riley's in a good place and I don't want to mess that up by adding more to her plate. We've got this handled for the most part," Maya replies, her tone becoming sharper at the end.

"For the most part? My, that doesn't sound reassuring to me. What's going on?" Farkle presses gently, not wanting to upset his friend.

"Do you ever have a feeling about something, but can't prove it, even though you know it's related somehow?" Maya probes.

"Um, I guess I have at one point or another in my life. But Maya, before you take matters into your own hands, please think things through very carefully. I know you want to do what's right, but if you're wrong or get into even more trouble, that's just a bigger mess and problem for everyone," Farkle reminds her because he knows how she is when she's determined to prove something.

"Don't worry, Farkle. I've heard this speech before and I won't do anything stupid. I just want justice," Maya announces strongly.

"Though that sounds frightening, I've got your back. And resources if needed," Farkle offers willingly.

"Thanks, Farkle! You're the best! Now, catch me up on your life," Maya shifts topics as the two start talking about the business Farkle is trying to run and the new help he has from a certain girl who is driving him crazy.

Over the next few weeks, Maya listens to what Farkle told her and remembers what Josh told her too. She has to take things slow and carefully to figure everything out. But that doesn't stop her from asking questions around town on her breaks and days off to try and find anything that could help them bring down the person or people who attacked their store and the others down the street.

OoOoOoOo

It's a late Tuesday night when she's locking up the store and as she turns around to walk to her car, she sees a figure in all black walk away from the bookstore across the street and into the darkness. She quickly blinks and when looks back in that direction again, she doesn't see anything. Not sure what to think, she calls the bookstore owner to let her know what she might have seen and promises to stop by the next day.

The two talk the next morning and Maya learns that the owner, Mrs. Val thought she'd seen something like that just last week. They share encounters and that only sparks Maya's interest. She's also pleased that her Mrs. Val have become quick friends. Now, the only thing she needs to figure out is who that person is, why they're sneaking around in the dark and who they're working with as this will be the hardest task yet.

As she walks back to the store, a sudden chill runs down her spine and she stop immediately in the center of the road to look around skeptically. Not seeing anything out of the ordinary, she continues on her walk and stops again in front of Missy's store, feeling a certain unsettledness as the two just happen to catch each other's eyes with a glare.

Swiftly moving past her store and into theirs, she's determinedly walks into her office and starts to write down everything she and Mrs. Val talked about and the weird feelings she had last night and this morning. Minutes later, like clockwork, Riley enters the store with a smile and Lucas is right behind her. The three have breakfast together, talk about random things and then they all go to work and start their day.

She can feel Riley's eyes on her for most of the day and when closing time arrives, she watches her best friend casually lock the front door and then faces her with a worried expression.

"What's with that look, Riles?" she questions with a raised eyebrow as she hates Riley's concerned demeanor. It makes her uncomfortable and sad.

"I'm not giving you any look, Peaches. I'm just looking at my best friend," Riley counters with a small smile.

"You know I love you, but that's a bunch of crap. I know something's on your mind so why don't you just spit it out," Maya replies with her own smile.

"Okay, fine. You seem tense. Not just today, but for a while now. I've been watching you and somedays are better than others, but I can see that something's definitely bothering you. I know you and Josh don't tell me certain things because you're trying to protect me, but I can handle it. And if I can't, I'll work to. I'm finally learning that my parents death doesn't define me or future. That I can't always be afraid. If anything, I've realized that it taught me a lot about life. Not only about moving on from the past and things I can't control, but also about myself and my inner strength. They will always be with me, but I have to start living for all of us," Riley shares with such openness and honesty.

"Oh, Riles. You're so strong. You're the strongest person I know and your parents would be so proud of you. And, I'm sorry Josh and I didn't tell you things. You were right and we were trying to protect you, but we shouldn't have gone about it by giving you white lies. We just didn't want to lose the Riley we were slowly getting back," Maya answers truthfully as both girls have tears in their eyes.

"I'm sorry you felt that way and made things harder for you guys. And I'm sorry I wasn't the person I used to be," Riley mumbles, wiping her tears away with the back of her hand.

"Oh, Honey. Never apologize for that. Losing your family isn't something you can just brush off. You needed time to heal and cope. Time to find yourself again. I'm glad you did at your own pace and I'm happy of the outcome. You've found Riley again and you're shaping your life to the way you want to live it," Maya applauds as she walks over to hug her best friend tightly as tears are flowing from both girls.

After a few minutes of releasing the tear works, they semi composed themselves and Riley moves back to her original topic. "So now that we've cried and bonded for the day, why don't you tell me what's bothering you?"

"Okay, fine," Maya finally sighs and gives into Riley's request. "Honestly, a lot has been bothering me and it all has to do with what's been happening to our store and the others all up and down the street."

"I know, it sucks. We don't deserve this kind of rudeness. But there's nothing we can do right now. There's no witnesses, no evidence. We could do things on our own, but that wouldn't be wise or safe and we would probably only cause more problems. Which we definitely do not need. We need support on our side, not enemies," Riley lays out in a serious tone.

"Trust me. I know we can't make waves here. That's why I haven't done anything. Yet. But you know I can't just sit here and do nothing! This is our store, our life!" Maya exclaims, throwing her hands up in the air.

"I also know that. And judging by your expression, I bet you have something up your sleeve," Riley smirks, knowing how her best friend and business partner thinks.

"Just one thing, actually. And it has to do with our next door neighbor," Maya answers darkly.

"Missy? You think Missy is behind all this?" Riley questions, speechless and confused.

"Yes. Well, kind of. I have this feeing that she's involved somehow. Like after something good happens here, something bad suddenly follows. She's had it out for us since day one. And on top of that, do you ever get this weird feeling when you walk past her store?" Maya starts to explain everything she's been thinking and writing down.

"Actually, now that you've mentioned it, yeah. It feels like someone is watching me. But besides that, all your other reasons are just coincidences," Riley tries to justify.

"Strange coincidences my ass. That's a clear sign the Wicked Witch is up to something!" Maya shouts out loudly.

"Maybe. Or maybe we're just being paranoid. It's not like you can just walk up to her and ask her about all the things that have been happening around here. That would only piss her off more and we don't want her hating us," Riley utters sternly.

"I know that. I'm not that stupid and that's why I haven't done anything yet. But I know she's hiding something. I can feel it in my gut. It's that strong of a feeling. But hey...what about Lucas?" Maya offers with a smile.

"What are you talking about, Maya?" Riley presses with raised eyebrows.

"He's friends with Missy, right? Do you think he can help us out? Do some snooping around on her?" Maya suggests gently.

"Maya!" Riley yells out in horror and anger. "No! We are not going to ask Lucas to do that to his friend. That's just mean. And low, even for you."

"It was merely a suggestion. I'm sorry. And he's our friend too. It wouldn't be fair for him to be in the middle of this," Maya exhales deeply, moving back to lean against the counter.

"I'm glad you see it too. I know you hate being at a standstill with this, but give it more time and I know something will happen that will help us," Riley murmurs, joining Maya at the counter.

"So, you're just going to wait for another disaster to happen?" Maya clarifies slowly.

"Seems so. Like I told Josh a while back, I want to fix this problem just as much as you do, but it has to be done the right way," Riley replies softly.

"You're too sweet for this insane world, Riles," Maya chuckles as the two hug again.

"Well, someone has to be the reasonable one in the group," Riley states with a smile.

"True. But Honey, that's not you. I'm mean, you're getting there, but not quite. You literally ran out of the restaurant like two months ago when Josh brought up deliveries and Lucas," Maya laughs, shaking her head.

"That was a very small hiccup in all the craziness," Riley counters firmly, holding her chin up high. "I'm better now and see things more clearly."

"That's great and all right, I'll give you this one. You have always been the more levelheaded one in the group. And the most cautious. Which is a good balance for us," Maya grins, relieved this conversation went well.

"Definitely a good balance. And I trust you and your instincts, but let's take this day by day until we get more information," Riley tells her with a hopeful smile.

"I can do that," Maya nods in agreement as she wants and needs to do the right thing to get the proper justice.

OoOoOoOo

For the girls, they stuck by their word and took things day by day, but someone who heard the girls' conversation a week ago, took matters into their own hands and that meant only one thing. To take the bull by the horns and hold on tight for the wild ride.

The sun was just setting when they entered the shop and noticed no customers were inside so they took this opportunity to start their plan.

"Hello?" they call out when no one was at his register.

Quick footsteps could be heard coming from behind the white drapes that covers the entrance to the back hallway and when they are finally face to face, they smile kindly to the stunned but pleased expression on the owners face as they greet, "Hi. I'm surprised to see you. I thought you'd be elsewhere as you always seem to be busy."

"I wanted to see you. See how you are doing. We haven't talked in a while," the person continues softly.

"Really? You wanted to see me?" the other person asks startled.

"Yes, really," the person repeats, gently placing their hand over the other person hand.

"Well, I'm doing just fine. And we would see more of each other of you weren't always hanging out with her," the other person snaps back and pulls their hand away.

"Missy," the person says, exhaling with a long sigh.

"I know, I know. I'm sorry," she mumbles, looking down at the ground.

"I understand. And I have a solution you might like. How about you and I go on a coffee date this weekend," the person suggests with a smile.

"I, I think that's a fabulous idea. I'd love to, Josh. Thank you. I always knew you were sweet," Missy grins happily.

"Great! Of course and thank you. I'll pick you up around nine. Do that work for you?" Josh wonders with his charming smile.

"That's perfect! See you then," Missy beams.

"Good. See you then. Have a nice evening," Josh finishes, giving her smile and nod.

"You too. Bye!" Missy waves as Josh exits the store, very satisfied with the outcome.


And there you go folks! Please let me know what you thought!

Thanks and until next time,

Missy xx