Warped

by JJOAS

A 30 year old get's reincarnated into the body of one ten year old Jackie Burckhart and because of this cosmic hiccup this That 70's Show dimension get's a little warped. Slice of life.

3. Chapter 3

Chapter 3: 1977-1978

We slowly drove past the school, but Steven stopped suddenly. I scowled at him and he motioned with his head at a contrite looking Michael. I rolled my eyes and yelled out to Michael, "Hey! What are you doing just standing there Michael!?"

He waved me a strained grin, waved and jogged over, "Forman usually drives me since me and Pam are on the rocks…but I'm really starting to get worried. He didn't show up after school today."

I worriedly frowned and looked around noting that Eric's car hadn't gone anywhere, "What if something happened to him?"

Steven shook his head and spotted Eric's car just sitting there, "Nothing happened to him, doll."

Michael started hyperventilating, "What if he's lost or hurt somewhere? Maybe I should check the school morgue?"

At this point I sighed and got out of the car despite the affronted look Steven gave me, "Calm down, Lassie, I'm sure Timmy's just fine. Now get in the car. We can drive you home, right Steven."

Steven rolled his eyes and sighed, "Kelso just get in the car, in the back."

I grinned and Steven gave me one of those 'just for you' looks, "Also the school doesn't have a morgue, Michael." I slipped in beside Steven and he let his arm fall around my shoulders.

Michael huffed in the back seat, "Then what do we pay all those taxes for?"

Steven let out a bitter laugh, "You know what kills me? You do better in school than I do." I patted his hand gently and in return he took my hand in his squeezing it gently. Steven only did worse than Michael because school just didn't interest him that much. However, when things interested him he excelled wonderfully. Like with music, or cars. Steven was wonderful when it came to those things.

Michael pouted in the back seat and I let out a laugh hearing Steven's stomach grumble again. Damn Edna. I let my head fall on his shoulder, "You guys wanna get some grub at the HUB?"

Steven grunted a short confirmation. I think it still bugged him when I knew Edna didn't feed him. We've known each other for how long exactly? I rolled my eyes and smiled while Michael cheered out a 'hell yeah if you're buying'.

Steven scowled at Michael in the rearview mirror, "Shut up, Kelso."

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We parked nearby the HUB and quickly ordered some food to go at Michael's instance. While we walked back to the El Camino Michael chattered away, "If we're here Eric could be somewhere alone in a ditch."

I rolled my eyes and talked with my hand that wasn't holding our food, "Michael. Eric is almost a grown ass ehhh man-boy. He'll be fine, but if you're that worried we can check his house."

Steven snorted and popped a fry into his mouth as we reached our car, "You should really chill, man. Forman probably just ditched you."

Michael petulantly shook his head, "Forman wouldn't do that."

I shrugged, "He did quit his job, partied, and all that shit that went down a little while ago."

Michael kept shaking his head blocking us out as he climbed into the back seat. Steven slid into the driver's seat and I hopped on in beside him holding most of our food.

Steven rolled his eyes while I popped a fry into my mouth and then his, "Stop pouting. We're heading to Forman's now." Michael tried to beat down the small smile that crawled onto his face, but failed to do so.

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We filed into the basement via the backdoor and I held the takeout loosely in my hand while Steven draped his arm around my waist.

Donna tilted her head and looked at us questioningly while Eric cheerfully asked, "There you guys are. Where have you been?"

Michael spluttered waving his hands wildly, "Where have we- Where have you been? We've been worried sick about you. Are your fingers broken? You can't use a phone?"

I shook my head and threw Donna a spare burger. I figured she'd appreciate it and from the wide grin she threw at me she did. Fez looked at my bag of food longingly and I threw him a burger too. Fez beamed at me deftly catching the fly food. It was a good thing I had insisted on buying more that just one burger for me, Steven, and Michael. Steven rolled his eyes at everyone and patted my hip.

Eric frowned, "Scooby, Shaggy, Velma, we've got company."

Strange gay looking dude stated, "Buddy Morgan." I looked at him and raised my brow while Steven and I made our way to the chair he was currently occupying. My fries and burger would not taste as good if we weren't comfortably sitting in a chair.

Steven snorted and glared down at him, "Yeah, I know you."

Buddy offered us an easy going smile, "Yeah, I guess it's my fault since I gave Eric a ride home."

Steven growled, "So? Get out of our chair!"

He held up his hands in a pacifying manner getting up and away from us, "Okay. I really have to be going anyway."

Steven and I sat down in our respective positions. He buried his head into the back of my neck before leveling this Buddy guy with a level glare. I rolled my eyes and gave him the stink eye too. It would take me a while to calm a brooding Steven. I plucked a French fry from my takeout bag and offered it to him. Steven sighed and accepted it grudgingly. He didn't want to be distracted from brooding.

Buddy nervously laughed and turned to Eric, "So your car is still at school?"

Eric beamed and jumped to his feet, "Yeah, you're damn right it is."

Buddy started walking up the stairs, "I could drop you off if you want."

Eric nodded and started following him, "Yeah, sure." He turned back and flashed Michael a smile, "I'm real sorry I forgot about you."

However, we were soon forgotten when Buddy asked, "Did you want to drive?"

Jogging up faster up the stairs Eric cheered while they disappeared up the steps, "Hell, yeah!"

Michael whined and let his shoulder flop, "Did you see that? He just ditched me again."

A pitchy tanned blonde that was taller and skinnier than Pam glared at us. Wasn't she Annette something or another? "Do you even know how difficult it is to clique jump? Eric has achieved something very special, and you're ruining it for him."

Michael flopped down onto a nearby lawn chair, "Who cares? I'm tired and I never want to walk anywhere again." I rolled my eyes. We drove him everywhere, how tired could Michael possibly be?

Steven raised an eyebrow at her voluntary munching on another French fry, "You are?" I tilted my head at her curiously, "Yeah. I haven't seen you before."

Donna snickered and munched on her burger. Fez was currently zoned out watching the TV and eating.

Said new girl snorted delicately and glared at me and Steven like we were stale gum, "I'm Michael's new girlfriend Annette Macy. Michael, walk me home."

Michael sighed and sluggishly got up, "Okay." They both exited the basement quietly. I wondered what crawled up her butt and died. Maybe I just didn't have that much luck with blondes?

I handed Steven his burger and he let his head just flop onto my shoulder accepting the burger silently. I kissed his forehead and took out my own food. I had forgotten to eat again so food right now was awesome. I shoved another fry into my mouth happily.

Donna turned to Steven finishing off her burger, "Okay, what's your problem with Buddy? I mean, he seems nice enough."

Steven swallowed down what he was chewing shaking his head slightly, "Screw him, man. I mean, he's got the money, the car, the family. The teachers like him, the counselors like him. Everybody likes him. I hate him."

I sighed and kept eating quietly. This was true, but Steven had similar things too. Sure my money wasn't under his name, but it I spent it on him and everyone else any ways. So he kind of had money. I just got him a car for his birthday, and I thought he considered Kitty, Red, Eric, Donna, Michael, me, and even Fez family. All the other things really didn't matter…I think he was just really hungry angry. He was certainly cranky when we missed meals.

Donna rolled her eyes and stretched out her arms, "Hyde, don't you think you're overreacting just a little bit?" I nodded and smiled at her. Donna grinned.

Steven ignored our exchange and continued ranting, "Donna, let me tell you something, okay? When high school's over, Buddy Morgan's going to a great college. You know where I'm gonna be? Sitting right here with you guys. Not in college." I pinched him slightly with that dig. He nipped at the back of my neck with his greasy mouth and I pouted. I felt him rub my side so I knew he didn't mean it as a dig against me. Steven did want to go and make something more of his life than just this, but I knew that he would never just let me pay for him to do it.

Donna frowned and gave Steven a chastising look, "At least you've got great friends. We can just be your family instead, right Lin?"

I tried to convey how much I loved him with my expression, "Always."

Steven gave me that look of his again and smiled slightly, "Thanks."

I happily snuggled into him, "Anything for you, puddin' pop."

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I heard the cashier guy talk to his employee while we lounged around the HUB in a nearby table, "Just take that over to our cashier and have a beautiful day. Number 10, your order is ready."

I tilted my head to the side and sighed sipping my root beer. Steven stole my straw and sipped on our shared root beer. It was kind of boring without Eric to harass.

Michael sighed wistfully watching the HUB windows, "Yeah, I'll be right there."

Donna rolled her eyes at Michael while she read her latest Cosmo magazine. I think this one had more articles about the feminine movement.

The cashier guy cleared his throat and I swear he was glaring at our table, "Number 10. I have limited counter space. Please remove your hot dog."

Michael huffed and got up moving to go get his order, "All right."

Donna sighed and gave the cashier a shark eye stare deadpanning, "I don't see why you can't just serve us our food, Frank."

Steven chuckled waspishly adding, "We are paying customers, you know." I tapped his hand and he sighed while I snuggled further into him. I wasn't feeling all that great today.

This Frank guy stared at us and seriously stated, "I did not lose a leg in Vietnam, so that I could serve hot dogs to teenagers."

Donna shook her head, "You've both your legs, Frank."

Frank nodded and turned away, "Like I said, I did not lose a leg in Vietnam."

Fez happily walked in waving, "Hey, guys."

Steven tilted his head and looked around Fez, "Hey, man, where's Forman?"

Fez slumped into a seat giving us all a kicked puppy look, "I do not know. He's not with me."

I felt Steven tense up while he cursed, "That damn Buddy again."

I shook my head and slid my arm around my boyfriend's waist, "You know he only hangs out with Buddy 'cause he's got a Trans Am." Steven shook his head muttering obscenities about Buddy.

Annette spoke up for the first time in a while startling me. I had almost forgotten that she was there, "So, you guys only hang out with Eric 'cause of the Vista Cruiser and the basement."

Donna scoffed at her and stole a French fry from me choosing to ignore Annette in favor of reading her magazine.

Steven gave her a gimlet stare, "We've been friends with Forman since he was a kid, man."

I nodded and added, "Way before he had any of that stuff." All he was back then was knobby knees and kind smiles.

Michael smiled, "That's right." I think he was reassured when we had reminded him that Eric had indeed known us longer than Buddy.

Donna let a warm grin cross her face, "Remember when he used to have that tree house and the go-kart?" I laughed I recalled how Eric, Michael, and Steven crashed that go-cart into Mr. Winkle's rose bush pretending to be speed racers.

Frank ruined the moment and glared at Fez, "Hey, you. Buy something or get out. I've got a big wedding coming in." I felt my irritation simmer.

Donna glared up at him, "Frank, you don't have a big wedding coming in."

Frank carelessly shrugged keeping his glare on Fez whole had paled, "Did I say wedding? Because I meant to say, "buy something or get out."" Fez was about to get up and go but I pulled him back down to his seat. Steven tugged on my side preventing me from getting up and doing something potentially stupid, like kicking a certain someone's shins.

"I've got you Fez." I gave Frank the stink eye, "He'll have a burger and fries with a root beer, and keep the change." I handed Frank a ten and he grinned brightly at me. Steven frowned at Frank's back before shaking his head at me, "Doll."

I shook my head, "No Steven. I'm just mad at him now. Let me plot my vengeance. I hope that ten combusts."

He laughed and hugged me to his side, "That's my girl."

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We sat around lounging in the basement and not at my house again because Annette had insisted on tagging along. I know I had said I didn't care about the how the basement felt, but I kind of missed my sunny clean yellow couch. I think the last time Eric cleaned this couch was when we were twelve and he was punished into doing so. I safely perched on Steven's lap and he proceeded to comb through my short hair with his fingers while we zoned out on whatever was on.

Michael pouted and leaned back further into his lawn chair taking Annette with him, "I miss Eric."

Annette patted Michael's hand, "You still have me." I know she was trying to be comforting, but they'd only really known each other a week. Steven mouthed I love you against the skin on the back of my neck causing a slow smile to form on my face. My Casanova.

Michael slid her off his lap while he stood up to pace, "It's not the same, Annie. I can talk to Eric about things that I can't talk about with you."

Annette picked herself up and perched onto the abandoned lawn chair, "Okay, like what?"

Michael paced and shrugged, "For instance, the annoying things that you do."

Annette let out an aggravated, shriek, "Michael!"

Michael threw his hands up into the air to emphasize his point, "See? I can't talk to you."

Eric nervously climbed down into the basement and I gave him an unimpressed stare. Donna made a face at him, Fez frowned, and Steven out right glared.

Michael however grinned when he spotted Eric, "Hey, Eric, how's it going?"

Eric ignored Michael's question and took a seat next to Donna fidgeting now and again, "So, what is everyone looking at?"

Steven let out a bemused unhappy sound, "What are we looking at, man?"

I deadpanned, "We haven't seen you in days." Steven then proceeded to throw my jacket at Eric's head. Eric let the projectile softly land on him and he gently pulled it off and placed it on Donna's lap unheeding of the stink eye she was giving him.

Eric rolled his eyes and made a face at Steven, "What, Hyde?"

He shook his head, "If you can't tell we're upset with you."

Eric frowned and pouted, "Et tu best little sister?" Like his puppy dog pout would sway me. Not today mister. You ditched us for some rich kid. I am the resident rich kid, and I do not like being replaced.

I didn't dignify his question with a response and chose to just turn and snuggle further into Steven. I could get my jacket back off of the couch later.

Donna looked around and snapped, "Where's Buddy?" I guess she had a right to be even more peeved since she was his girlfriend, sort of girlfriend any way. He totally ignored her too.

I gave him a sullen look, "Yeah Buddy."

Eric choked out a decidedly uneasy laugh, "Buddy got busy. Yeah, I mean, I'm sure he has a lot to do." He flattened himself against the couch and tried to act inconspicuous which just meant that something strange was up.

Annette waved her hand carelessly snobbishly noting, "He is popular." The silent 'like me' was insinuated with her tone. I sighed. This just made me miss Pam. Whatever happened to her?

Fez nodded and laughed, "Yes, and so obviously gay."

Eric quickly; far too quickly in my opinion, jumped to defend him, "Buddy is not gay!" Steven gave me an 'are you serious look', and I shrugged. He nodded and watched Eric closely.

Donna let out an snorting laugh stating in a disbelieving tone, "Puuhleez, Fez." Fez frowned and shook his head.

I stared hard at Eric and watched him sweat before nodding over to Fez, "I agree with Fez. He's totally gay."

Fez beamed at me from his seat and Steven snorted out a laugh, "Doll, you know how I feel, but that's just stupid." I didn't know if he just didn't want me siding with Fez or if he really thought Buddy wasn't gay.

Michael let out an obnoxious laugh, "If Buddy was gay then he would have been all over me..." He preened and displayed his body like a model.

We all gave him a disbelieving stare and he ignored us favoring instead to parade around like said male model.

Annette rolled her eyes and flounced out of the basement dragging Michael with her, "See you guys later."

Fez looked at his newly acquired watch and pouted, "I will see you people later. I cannot be late again or my host family will make me listen to their strange music again. Good day people." With that Fez left too sparing Eric a tight smile.

Steven gave Eric a mischievous smile, "So, Forman. Now that the scary kids are gone is Buddy gay?" I pouted at Steven, so he just didn't want me agreeing with Fez. I really didn't get his problem with me interacting with Michael and Fez. I was just being kind.

Eric began to fidget and sweat harder, "I don't think it's really my place to –"

I slid out of Steven's lap grinning while I pointed at Eric, "He's totally gay! I called it, and Fez did too I guess." Steven chuckled and pulled me back onto his lap making me stumble slightly.

Eric gave me a bewildered look before a guilty expression came onto his face, "Okay, guys, hypothetical situation, crazy scenario wouldn't happen in like a million years. Let's just…Let's say, okay. That Buddy made a move on me."

Donna patted his shoulder and patiently stated, "Eric, he's not gonna make a move on you if he knows you're straight." Denial is a very long river Donna, do not ride it.

Steven shrugged, "I don't know. I mean, Forman is pretty irresistible."

Eric nodded crossing his arms protectively over his chest, "I don't think he'll make a move on me again."

I snorted out a laugh, "Again?"

Eric waved his hands wildly and backpedaled, "Or for the first time. You know what? I gotta go." With that he dashed out of the basement to God who knows where.

Steven stood up pulling me with him. I wiggled and stretched out while he stage whispered, "You know, Donna if Forman ever decides to dabble in the love that dare not speak its name I'm sure me and Lin can find you another guy. Eh, doll?"

I shrugged, "Eh." I wasn't the most social person in the world so this was really just Steven's odd sense of humor at play. I twisted my neck and a couple pops sounded and I let out a relieved sigh. Steven grinned and hugged me from behind.

Donna rolled her eyes at us and nudged me and Steven slightly, "Wanna go play board games at your place, Lin?"

Steven let out a barking laugh while we made our way out of the basement towards my house, "You girls can play your board games while I'm go watch sports drinking some beer."

Donna pulled me out of Steven's arms effortlessly and looped her arm through my now free limb, "Beer?"

I chuckled, "I do have my college ID still."

Donna shook her head, "Sometimes I forget how smart you are."

I shrugged, "Whatever, man."

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Red climbed up and strung up the outdoor Christmas lights, "Hold the ladder steady for me, Eric."

Eric nodded and did his best to hold it steady while I pinned on tinsel to the spots that I could reach with my stool.

Donna strolled on over and saw my short person problem, "You want help, Lin?"

I gave her a thankful grin and nodded, "Please?"

She laughed and started putting up tinsel too, "So, Eric, what are you doing Christmas Eve? My parents are having the same, lame Christmas party they have every year."

Red looked down at me and called out, "All right, how does that look?"

I waved and yelled, "It looks great, Mr. Forman!"

Red nodded, "Thanks, sweetheart." Red continued to put up other decorations.

I started putting up small ornaments with the tinsel and Donna aided me in that as well.

"I think it looks fabulous," Eric stated not so subtly checking out Donna's rear.

Donna shook her head and laughed when she noticed Eric ogling her, "Eric, the ornaments are up here."

He changed where he was looking at blushing slightly, "Yeah. Looks great."

I laughed and poked his belly, "Perv."

Eric grinned and shrugged, "Teenaged boy, Lin. It's what we do, but not Hyde. Don't let him do that to you."

He waggled his forefinger at me and I rolled my eyes at him. Dumb ass.

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I swung my legs sitting up on top of the dryer for once. I had managed to steal it back from Annette today, "I just love Christmas." Steven dragged his chair closer to the dryer before plopping down near me.

Steven rolled his eyes good naturedly at me and winked, "It's all about good tidings and cheer, eh doll?"

Annette shook her long blonde hair and butted into our conversation, "No it's mostly about shopping."

I rolled my eyes at her and leaned back on my forearms deadpanning, "Yeah, I'm pretty sure that's what Jesus was going for."

Annette grimaced and shot at glare at us, "I give, too. Every year, my friends and I deliver gift baskets to the unfortunate."

Donna snickered and shook her head, "I think you mean less fortunate."

I laughed plopped down off of the dryer deciding to find a seat on Steven's lap instead, "Nope, Donna; from what we've seen of Annette, I doubt she does mean less fortunate."

Annette huffed, "Whatever."

Eric pulled Donna in closer while he inspected what was on TV, "What are you guys doing watching cartoons? Holiday Inn is on." I shrugged. All the Christmas stuff I wanted to watch was off in the distant future. What show was on now didn't really matter to me.

Kitty came down the stairs holding an empty box for Christmas decorations, "Where the treetops glisten La, la, la, listen…Eric, come on, help me get more decorations. Hi, Lin, sweetie!"

Eric got up and dropped an apologetic kiss on top of Donna's head, "Sure, Mom."

I happily waved to Kitty from my position on Steven's lap. Mother and son went to the back of the basement to hunt for more Christmas decorations.

Michael wistfully looked off into the distance, "You know what my favorite Christmas gift of all time is? Lite Brite. It's fun making things with it." Annette snorted and ignored Michael.

Fez gave us a confused, "What is Lite Brite?"

I tilted my head and thought about it. I wasn't that familiar with a lot from the toys from the 70's. I shrugged, "I'm not too sure, Fez. It's just a toy Michael likes, I think." Steven chuckled against my shoulder and refocused back onto what was playing on the TV.

Michael happily stated, "It is."

Eric came back out and Kitty waved goodbye at us while she happily danced up the stairs. Eric reclaimed his seat beside Donna letting out a relieved sigh.

Annette filed her nails, "My favorite gift is cash. That way you can buy whatever you want."

I frowned at her, "I like things people give me when they're from the heart." I heard Steven snort and he planted a wet kiss on the back of my neck. Eww. Just wait mister. Next time you shower, I'm flushing the toilet.

He grinned, "You're such a sap, doll."

I gave him a droll look, "Mhmm, and?"

Eric nervously glanced at Donna, "Like, let's just say somebody gave you $9 and some change, right? You know, to buy a present. What would you get?" I gave Eric a concerned look. How'd he get broke again? I thought he did some more chores for Red. I inwardly face palmed, did he spend most of it on action figures again? Dumb ass probably forgot the next upcoming 'better give your significant other something' day.

Donna patted his knee, "Eric, it doesn't matter how much a gift costs as long as it's personal and sentimental."

Annette batted her lashes at Michael, "You know what's both personal and sentimental? Diamonds." I shook my head; that was unnecessary to say. Not everyone had oodles of cash lady. Ya gotta keep that shit private.

I rolled my eyes and Eric shot me a mischievous look before turning to Annette, "We were going through a box of Christmas decorations and we found the Christmas rat. Oh! There! It ran past you Annie!"

She shrieked and fled the basement faster than a gazelle running away from wild wolves. I beamed at Eric and we gave each other air high fives.

Donna snorted, "Dorks." This was true.

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Kitty sliced her bacon and smiled at Laurie, "So Laurie, seeing anyone special at university?" This was probably because I had someone and Eric did too. She was making sure that Laurie wasn't going to either end up a lonely old cat woman or a serial slut. I think it was too late for the latter though.

Laurie tossed her hair back and popped a piece of pancake into her mouth, "I like to date around."

I almost choked on my orange juice at that comment. She was just begging for a jab and Eric took the opportunity coughing into his hand, "Slut!"

I grinned at him, "Bless you." I popped a pancake covered in whipped crème into my mouth while Laurie glared daggers at me.

Eric beamed and took another bite of his sausage, "Thanks, Lin."

He gave a cautious glance at Red before saying, "Dad, instead of being at your party this year I was thinking of throwing a party in the basement. I mean, I think I'm old enough."

I inwardly held my breath. Usually this meant Red would say no, but I could see a twinkle in his eye today. I wondered what he was planning. I popped a slice of bacon into my mouth ignoring the faces that Laurie was making at me.

Red raised his eye brow, "Lin, are you going to be there?" I nodded and gave Red a reassuring smile.

He turned back towards Eric and nodded, "Fine."

Laurie let out a snort, "Fine? Every year he just mopes around here like it's the end of the world, and he gets a party?"

Kitty just tutted and piled on more food onto Laurie's plate and I internally cackled. Yes Kitty…make her fat. Faaaaatttt.

Eric grinned and I swear he started bouncing, "All right! Thanks, Dad."

Kitty sighed and looked at Eric sadly, "So now who's going to sing the high parts on The Little Drummer Boy?"

Laurie sneered at Eric, "Traditionally it's the man who can't grow facial hair."

Eric deftly ignored Laurie, "Dad, one more thing about the party. I need some money." I was proud he was actually standing up for himself, although I felt a little sad too. I was so used to standing up for him that it felt a little weird now that he was doing it for himself.

Red nodded and took a sip of his black coffee, "All right, Eric. I want you to pick out this year's tree. And, whatever you don't spend you can use for your party."

Eric grimaced, "You know how much I hate haggling with those tree people." I giggled and he shot me a look that clearly stated 'not now'. I couldn't help but stick my tongue out and giggled quietly. Tree people.

Red rolled his eyes before taking out his wallet, "Haggling is part of being an adult. Here's $40."

Eric stared at the money Red had just handed him, "I want $50."

Red smacked him upside the head, "Knock it off! You get $40 and you'll like it."

Eric frowned, "Yes sir." I shook my head. When Red had said he needed to learn how to haggle, he probably didn't mean with him.

Red nodded and grunted, "Pick out a good one and take Lin with you. She knows the ones your mother'll like."

Kitty threw her hands up into the air pouting, "Okay, fine. Throw your party. But can I at least make you some punch and cookies?"

Eric sighed, "Mom, no."

Kitty sent Eric a sad smile, "Just punch?" Her sad smiles always got me right in the feels... Those smiles reminded me of my mother. My actual mother from my former life.

Eric shook his head, "No, Mom."

She sighed morosely, "You can't have a Christmas party without punch. That's just insanity!"

I kicked Eric under the table, "Eric."

He rolled his eyes, "Some punch and cookies sound great mom."

Kitty beamed at Eric and patted my shoulder, "Thank you, dear."

I nodded and inwardly jumped around. Ahhh good times.

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Steven glanced back at me while I faced down a burly man in lumberjack clothes, "Forman, man, would you relax? Lin's got this handled." I appreciated Eric's concern, but really I wasn't that short or delicate.

I glared at the tree man and I swear that I felt like my right eye was twitching, "$20 and not a penny more!" He had priced the tree at $30 since it was Christmas Eve. That was ten times the normal amount that a tree cost. God damn high way robbery if you asked me; the guy should've dressed up as a pirate and not as a lumberjack.

Eric paced up and down, "She shouldn't be buying the tree in the first place."

Michael rolled his eyes, "If we went with my idea-"

Steven nudged Michael and patronizingly stated, "We probably would've gone to jail, Kelso."

Michael huffed and stated, "We could've gotten away with it." He crossed his arms and petulantly leaned against the Vista Cruiser.

I came back happily skipping while the tree man sent a glare my way writing out a receipt. I glomped Steven and grinned at Eric, "This is the first part of your gift so don't complain okay, Eric?"

Eric worriedly wrung his hands, "I know I said that I needed money at the breakfast table earlier, Lin…but…"

I shrugged off his worry, "Don't sweat it. Really. Just accept the gift with a smile."

He gave me a strained smile while Steven let me hang off of him. I don't think Steven liked it when I glomped him. Too bad! This was my favorite holiday, and Mr. Sourpuss couldn't ruin that.

Tree man came over lugging the huge tree that I had picked out, and he thrust said tree and receipt at Michael before stomping off. Steven adjusted his sunglasses and glared after the guy, "Jerk."

I shrugged, "Well…I did managed to haggle down his ludicrous price of $30 down to $15, so he has the right to be a little mad." Relief streaked across Eric's face.

While Eric and Michael loaded the tree up onto the roof of the Cruiser, Steven pulled me aside, "You didn't really give him $15 did you, Lin?"

I pouted guiltily, "No. It's Christmas. I tip people at Christmas."

He raised his eyebrow and glanced back at the lumberjack, "Why was he so pissed then?"

I winced and put on an innocent face, "I might have paid him to act that way?"

Steven sighed and pulled me into his arms giving me a squeezey hug, "What am I going to do with you Lin?"

I shrugged and planted a soft kiss on his lips, "Love me?"

He let his head rest against my forehead, "Always."

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Kitty fluffed the tree inhaling its pine scent, "This is the most beautiful tree I think we have ever had. And it's just so fresh." She beamed at me and Eric while she added on some more ornaments. I'm glad I was able to make her happy. Score one point for me! I inwardly cheered.

Laurie dragged us away from the tree and hissed, "You did not get this from a lot. You stole it."

Eric had a shit eating grin on his face, "No we didn't; Lin haggled." I nodded and couldn't help the smug smile that formed on my face. I may not have really haggled, but I did legally purchase that tree. That damn pricy tree.

Laurie rolled her eyes and shot me a dirty look, "With who? Smokey the Bear? You guys stole it."

I sneered at her, "You're one to talk. You're flunking out of university. Ain't so easy now is it, Laurie?"

Laurie looked at us shocked beyond all belief, "How'd you know?"

I smiled broadly making my eyes crinkle, "I didn't."

Eric grinned triumphantly, "We do now though."

She stomped her foot and gave us the stink eye, "Shut up!"

Eric laughed, "You shut up!"

Laurie jabbed Eric in the shoulder, "You shut up!"

I immediately stopped smiling and gave her a dark look, "Slut."

She whipped her head at me and jeered, "Nerd."

I raised my eyebrow at her making my voice sound as snooty as possible, "At least I have a high enough IQ to pass all the final exams. What can you say?"

She shook and let out a frustrated sound before stomping off, "Uggh! Shut up!"

I chuckled to myself and muttered, "Bye Felicia." Eric rubbed the spot that she had jabbed and patted my shoulder. I nodded to him and we kept on decorating the tree in an easy silence for a while finishing it with relative ease.

I cracked my back, "Basement?"

Eric nodded, "Yup."

We retreated away from the chaos that involved Mother Forman down into the basement to sort out this Christmas party Eric wanted to throw.

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Laurie came down holding a small box filled with other ornaments, "Eric, help me hang these stupid ornaments." She whined and pouted. Seriously? Really? That never worked on either of us. We knew she was really evil inside. Her horrible personality couldn't he hidden by whining and a pouting.

Eric glanced at her and went back to the note book he had found, "I can't. I'm planning a party."

She shot me an irritated look, "I don't get it. How come the little drummer boy and the intruder get to have a party?" I rolled my eyes at her poor attempt at an insult.

Eric shrugged and started to note down things, "Because I asked and Lin's coming, you stupid sister."

Laurie frowned at him, "That's not clever."

Eric continued on not really giving much thought to her, "I don't have time to be clever. I'm planning a party, Miss Dumb girl."

Someone knocked on the basement back door and I ran over to answer it, "I'll get it." I carefully opened it and found Annette with two of her cohorts standing in front of me.

Annette looked above me and tried to look around me, "Is Michael here?"

I rolled my eyes, "Eh…Gimme a sec Annette." I saw Michael trying to sneak away and I pulled him over stretching his sweater. He whined and stumbled over. I pushed him towards his pushy girlfriend and walked off.

Steven beckoned me toward the dark corner he was skulking in, "Lin, come here." If Star Wars had already been shown I could've made a dark side joke. As it stood I was just curious as to why Steven wanted me in a dark corner to himself. Oh I wonder. Sarcasameter past the yellow level folks.

I walked over to him and tilted my head, "Why?"

Steven just shook his head and sighed grabbing my arm effectively just pulling me into him, "Just come here."

I looked up at him and winked, "Steven, if you want to make out with me, the answer's probably yes."

Steven let out a short laugh, "Yeah, okay. I stole some mistletoe from Bob."

He had a goofy grin on his face for once and dangled mistletoe between us, and I melted inside. He was really trying this year and I couldn't help, but love him more for it.

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Steven and Michael lugged the beer into the basement and glanced over at Eric, "Here, Eric, where do we put the beer?"

Eric looked around and pointed at the cooler, "Put it in the ice chest." Both boys nodded and poured out the beer cans into said ice chest.

I looked at Eric's notes and poked him, "You okay?"

Eric gave me a strained smile, "Why wouldn't I be?"

I shrugged and laughed, "No reason."

Kitty came down the stairs with Laurie on her heels. They were both carrying stuff for the party. "Punch and cookies, just like I promised."

"Thank you, Mrs. Forman!" I punched Eric in the shoulder and glared, and he sighed pasting on a beaming smile, "Thanks mom!"

Eric took the punch away from Laurie and set it down onto a nearby table while I unloaded the plate of cookies from Kitty.

Laurie grinned at Eric's discomfort, and for once I didn't bother to get revenge. He was acting like a baby. Free food and probably spiked drinks were always party favors. I would have to be sure to bring out actual non-spiked juice later. Hopefully I wouldn't forget about it. Cause if I know Laurie, she'd probably do something to try and ruin this for Eric.

Kitty gave us a warm smile making sure to mess up my hair, "You know, you three you are just the best Christmas presents a mother could have." She patted Eric gently on the cheek and made her way back up the stairs.

I saw Laurie flirt with Michael successfully and laughed when Michael looked at all of us in a panic, "Gifts? No, I thought we said no gifts."

I rolled my eyes at him picking up a cookie and contemplating on whether or not I should take a bite, "No, Kelso, you said no gifts." Nah. I could eat later. I dropped the cookie and tried to focus.

Eric gave Michael a look that clearly asked if he was stupid, "What's Christmas without gifts?"

Steven agreed coming around me to place his hands on my hips, "Yeah, man."

Michael looked at us pathetically, "Where's your heart? Nobody tells me anything around here! Now I gotta go get something for Annie. She'll kill me!"

Laurie gave him a devilish grin, "Cheer up. Have some punch." She totally spiked that punch.

Michael pushed the punch filled cup away from him, "I don't want any punch. I gotta get a gift for Annie. Who I'm breaking up with." He winked at Laurie before he dashed out of the basement's back door.

I leaned against Steven, "Sometimes I really wonder about him."

Steven shrugged not really giving a damn about the pickle Michael found himself in, "Eh, most of us do sometimes, Lin."

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Annette and her cohorts wandered into the basement at some point while the party was in full swing. I leaned back against Steven and watched Fez try to pick them up. It was always entertaining.

Fez deepened his voice and flourished his arms, "Hello, ladies. So glad you could make it. May I get you something to drink? We have beer, you know."

Blonde stranger number one said, "What else do you have?"

Fez looked hopeful still, "We have punch, but we also have beer." I wondered if he was trying to get them drunk. That was kind of a creepy thing to do when I thought about it.

Blonde stranger number two stated politely, "Punch is fine."

Fez pouted and sighed, "Punch it is." He didn't leave though; instead Fez had a hopeful grin flash across his face. "Would you like to chase down that punch with a nice beer?"

Blonde number one looked at him questioningly, "Okay?"

Annette had this disgusted look on her face while she made a shooing motion at Fez, "No. She means no. We all mean no."

I looked up at Steven, "Should we help him? He's kind of tanking."

Steven shook his head, "Just enjoy the show, doll. It's funny."

Soon enough though Annette and her buddies were as drunk as skunks after Fez had given them lots and lots of punch which made me believe that Laurie really had spiked it. Note to self, only bring drinks in a can to a party when the slut was involved.

Eric wandered over with Donna in tow, "What's going on with the pep squad?"

Donna inspected them at a distance, "Yeah, they seem extra stupid tonight." They were babbling to Fez and he was drinking up the attention.

I sighed, "They're drunk."

Donna looked slightly alarmed, "Wait, what?"

Eric squawked, "How?!" He had probably seen them only drinking punch, so he was pretty weirded out, I guess.

Steven rolled his eyes, "Seriously Forman? Do you have to ask? Laurie is your sister."

Eric gaped at us. While an understanding look filtered across Donna's face, "Eric, Laurie probably spiked the punch."

Eric looked around glaring at no one in particular, "She's a demon."

Steven cracked his back and carelessly let his arms encircle my waist, "Yeah, we know, but there's not much we can do about it now, Forman."

He gave Steven and me a pleading look, "Well…just- can you guys please stop people from drinking the punch then?" Like these people would listen to us.

I rolled my eyes, "And tell them what? That's it's spiked? Not to drink the punch? They'll just drink more of it, if we tell them that." I knew I forgot something. I should've gone to get sodas from my place when I first suspected that Laurie had done something.

Eric let his head fall to his chest, "Damn it. I hate Laurie."

I nodded patting Eric's shoulder, "Yep. She's the worst."

Michael pulled out a poorly wrapped box and thrust it towards Annette, "Annie, this is for you."

She blearily gripped the box and tore it open excitedly, "Michael, what is it? It's hot rollers! And with steam!" She slung herself into Michael's arms and I couldn't help, but laugh at the expression on his face.

This in turn gave everyone the bright idea to exchange gifts. While people all around us were exchanging gifts with other people Eric, Donna, Steven, and I made our way to find some seats. At least no one stole all the seats while we watched the cheerleader train wreck.

Steven pulled me onto his lap and handed me a medium sized box wrapped in my favorite comic strip, "I got you something. It's no big deal. But, you know, Christmas."

Michael grinned and ribbed Steven from where he was standing, "Suddenly Hyde's getting bashful? This is great!" Steven shot Michael a dark look.

I slowly opened my gift and gasped, "Awe, puddin' pop."

Donna peered over my other shoulder and grinned, "What is it?"

I smiled softly and leaned against Steven, "It's a picture of me and Steven."

He let his head rest on my shoulder warmly stating, "Yeah, it's me and you when we were twelve. Remember?"

I let out a short laugh, "Yeah. I remember. I ended up tripping and falling on my face when I tried playing basketball." I traced the picture of the two of us. Me with the bandages all over my face and Steven who was piggy backing me through Eric's backyard.

Eric walked over and smirked, "Mhmm. That's why we don't let you play anymore. Cause you embarrass us." I pushed him with my foot and Steven laughed. They were mean, but it was true.

Steven let out a content sigh, "I've had it in my drawer forever, so I just framed it." He was subtly blushing and I couldn't help, but melt.

I peppered his face with kisses unheeding of the eyes that watched us, "That is so sweet, puddin' pop. Thank you!"

"Yeah, that is so sweet," Donna cooed and Steven scowled at her.

Eric fidgeted a worried frown flashed across his face, "Why don't you open my present?" He handed over a carefully wrapped square box to Donna and she happily took it.

Deftly opening the aforementioned box Donna smiled, "White Shoulders. I love this stuff. Thank you." She pecked him on the lips chastely and looped an arm around his waist.

Eric smiled goofily, "You're welcome. I wish I'd gotten you something like that though."

I rolled my eyes and internally ranted. Oh Eric. We are not in a couple competition. Seriously. Just bask in the happy.

Steven frowned, "Dude, it's nothing." He tried to wave away how much thought he had put into my gift. What the fruitcake?

I couldn't help but try to defend him, "It's not nothing. It was so thoughtful. It's the sweetest thing anyone's ever given me."

Donna smiled and rubbed circles into Eric's back, "I LOVED your perfume, sweetie."

Eric dutifully nodded, "Right. I wrapped it myself. I know how you like things wrapped."

Red came down the basement stairs and motioned to Eric, "Eric you and your little friends have to get up stairs. It's almost midnight. Hello, Lin sweetheart. How's your night going?" He had walked over to me and raised an eyebrow at where I was sitting.

Steven reluctantly let go of me and I walked over to Red handing him a chocolate tootsie roll, "It's going really well Mr. Forman. How's your night?"

He accepted my offered candy, sighed, and looked up stairs before giving me a rueful smile, "It could be worse."

"Oh! Before I forget…" I held out a slim folded envelope from my pink skinny jeans' pocket that had colorful Christmas trees pasted on it everywhere. "Because you guys are like my parents…You basically raised me when everyone left and I wanted to say thank you somehow."

I was glad everyone else was too busy exchanging gifts so they couldn't see me handing my gift to Red, although Eric, Steven, and Donna did glance our way now and again.

"Lin, you don't have to thank us. You're family," He shook his head and took the envelope any ways. Ten to one he thought it was going to be my regular pop up Christmas card with little trinkets inside. I did that every year before and I was usually quite predictable in that respect. He peaked inside and blinked rapidly then took the contents out. He held the two cheques in his hand and stared at me in disbelief, "Lin."

I scratched the back of my head and gave him a sheepish smile, "The first one is for you and Mrs. Forman since this house is…I consider this place home too even if I don't sleep in it every night. The second one is for you. I remembered all those stories about how you said you always wanted your own muffler shop…so now you can have one."

The man looked like he was going to actually cry and I bet if we only had Kitty around I would get big hugs from both of them. I panicked internally and started hopping from one foot to the other he didn't do emotions around other people. This was freaking me out. I was used to the very stoic but sweet Red. I was saved from this unforeseen problem by a very drunk Annette tackling a freaked out Michael.

She draped herself all over him sobbing all the while, "Michael, my hot rollers! I love you, Michael!"

Her friends sobbed and laughed leaning against one another, "God bless us, everyone! And Hyde loves Jackie!"

I shook my head. Seriously? How much did these girls drink? Steven chuckled and rubbed my shoulders before planting a kiss onto the back of my neck. Wha? When'd Steven get behind me? Did he wander over to me when Red looked like he was about to cry?

Red shook his head and gave a pat on my shoulder before storming up to Eric, "Eric, what the hell is going on here? Have these girls been drinking?"

Eric held up his hands beseechingly, "No. Look, Dad, I swear. They've just been drinking Mom's punch." Well…now Eric was screwed. He should've thrown Laurie under the bus.

Red walked over and smelt the punch before pouring himself a cup. He glared at Eric and took a sip, "Lousy with hooch!"

I sighed, kissed Steven gently and went over to the, clearly drunk out of their minds, cheerleaders. "Come on, Annette. I'll take you and the "sob sisters" home." I was thankful I hadn't had a drop to drink tonight besides the water that I had gotten myself from the kitchen tap.

Red's glare cooled when he noticed that I was herding the drunk girls away, "Thank you, Lin. At least I can count on you."

He pointed at Eric menacingly, "Eric, the rest of that beer goes in my refrigerator."

Red gave Donna an appraising look before firmly stating, "Donna, your father's upstairs. I suggest you join him."

I made my way out of the mess of people that were quickly leaving, but I managed to hear Red exhaustedly stating, "Steven, you help Eric clean up. And Kelso go home!"

Michael bolted out of the basement back door while Red made his way up the stairs towards the kitchen.

I shook my head while Annette and her blonde minions stumbled ahead of me. Before I could get to the basement door in front me I heard Fez holler, "Eric, do something. Lin's taking away my women!"

Eric impatiently motioned for Fez to get up the stairs, "Fez not now." Fez complied shooting him dirty looks all the while.

Donna sighed and gave him a quick kiss, "Thanks for the gift, Eric."

Donna gave me a tight squeeze before quickly departing up the stairs, "Merry Christmas, midget."

I laughed and herded the girls through the basement's back door towards where my car was, "Merry Christmas!" These girls had better not vomit on anything while I drove them home.

….Special continuation as a thank you to my lovely reviewers. You guys are awesome and amazing! This is a scene that doesn't have Lin in it, which would have otherwise been cut….

Eric and Steven picked up trash, emptied the tainted punch, and proceeded to start sweeping the floor in relative silence.

Eric looked up and gave Steven a curious look when he felt a can bop him on his head. Steven grinned at the sudden irritation that flashed across Eric's face, "So what'd you get from Lin and Donna?

Eric patted down his hair and let out a sigh of relief before chucking the empty can into the trash, "Ehh… I got an ID Bracelet with my name on it from Donna. Lin gave me a StarTrek phaser gun to along with the tree that she bought me."

Steven nodded and proceeded to wipe down all the surfaces with a damp washcloth, "Cool. Did you ask for the gun?"

Eric grinned happily putting back the brooms and dust pans in their respective places, "Yeah. I like it. It shoots out cool silly string and makes the same sounds that the one in the show makes."

Steven laughed, "That's my girl, ever the thoughtful one." He wiped his brow and hooked his aviators onto his shirt. Steven threw the washcloth back into an empty tub and flopped onto the couch.

Eric shrugged and chortled taking a seat beside Steven, "Best little sister ever. I'm really glad she helped me out tonight even if I got busted by Michael's stupid new girlfriend, and Laurie managed to ruin everything again." He stretched out and put his feet up on the coffee table.

Steven nodded leaned back into the chair and crossed his arms letting out a content sigh, "Yeah… You owe her one, although knowing her, she won't take it."

"What'd you get?"

"Donna gave me tube socks filled with candy and Lin got me a two parter again."

Eric nodded, "Yeah, she loves giving two part gifts. I could never figure out why though. Wanna share what she got you?"

Steven laughed hard and tipped his head back, "I don't think you wanna know one of the gifts, Forman. How about I tell you the G rated gift?"

Eric reddened and demanded, "God. Don't tell me you're defiling my sweet baby sister."

Steven cocked his head, "She's not a baby, but you are totally acting like one. Her G rated gift was a gift basket."

Eric shot him an amused look, "A gift basket? Like with fruit?"

Steven shook his head and stretched out his arms, "Nah. More like stuff that I'd like. Like a couple signed band shirts, new boots, spare shades, a bunch of chocolate, and her spare key on a long chain." He pulled out the chain he was wearing currently out of his shirt and showed Eric.

Eric pouted and sighed, "S'not fair. She likes you better."

Steven shrugged and laughed, "Man, I'm her boyfriend. She better like me better than you. Want some chocolate?"

Eric nodded, "Is it ones she mixed up?"

"Yep."

"I want the one with Oreos in it."

"Fine, but only half. I like that one too."

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Eric was scribbling in his note book trying to figure out how to appropriately pull off his scheme, "All right, this is no sweat. If we leave right after school we should make it to Annette's ski cabin by, like, 6:00."

Fez happily munched on the macaroons I had brought with me, "Man, I cannot wait."

Steven deadpanned, "A trip to my favorite place. Anywhere but here."

I rolled my eyes and poked Steven's head, "Really?"

He shrugged, "You know what I mean."

I sighed, "Yeah, but still."

Eric finished his plotting and sat back dreamily sighing, "And I'm betting that Alpine Valley is gonna give me many make-out opportunities with Donna this weekend."

Michael barged into the basement wearing a shit eating grin on his face, "The kid is in."

I rolled my eyes at him, "What's with the whole "kid" thing?"

Michael pouted, "It's cool."

Steven shook his head, Eric gave Michael a pitying look, and Fez giggled.

Michael sighed, "It's not cool?"

I threw a macaroon at his head, "Nope. Not cool at all."

Eric chipped in, "Dorky."

Michael shrugged and flopped into his lawn chair, "Guess who made out with Pam Macy behind the gym?"

Steven snorted, "Practically everyone after you broke up."

I shot Michael the stink eye, "She was real upset."

Michael laughed, "She wasn't when she was making out with me!"

Eric sighed, "Kelso, a lot of people hang out behind the gym."

Michael pumped his fists in the air cheering, "Yeah, that's what's so great about it. Everybody saw it!"

Steven sarcastically stated, "That's great, man."

Michael dreamily nodded, "Yeah."

Eric scowled at Michael, "Now everybody can tell Annie, you moron. Then she's gonna dump you and we won't be able to go up to her ski cabin."

Michael pouted, "She's never gonna find out."

Speak of the devil. Annette stormed into the basement with fire in her eyes. She smacked Michael upside the head and I chortled. She then proceeded to yell at him, "You are a dog, Michael! A mother fucking dirty, ass licking dog!"

Steven choked down his laugher while I hid my giggles in the nape of his neck, "Who knew she could swear?"

Steven smirked, "Apprently not, Kelso. Look Lin." I turned and almost couldn't help burst into laughter.

Annette was towering over Michael while he cowered into his chair, "What did I do?"

She jabbed his chest multiple times getting right into his face, "You kissed Pam Macy! PAM MACY! I trusted you, Michael; I don't want to be someone's second choice! And now all my friends are laughing at me. I can't even show my face in the third floor bathroom anymore. And that's the cool bathroom!"

Michael spluttered, "But, I –"

She took a breath and stood away from him shooting Michael what I assumed was a version of her death glare, "No, Michael. We're through."

Michael nodded morosely, "Okay. If that's the way you want it, we're through. And Monday, when we get back from that ski trip, it's over."

Annette shook her head, "No, Michael, no. You won't be skiing this weekend."

Michael threw up his hands, "That's just great, Annie. Cancel the ski trip and disappoint all our friends."

She gave us all a blinding smile sending Michael a glare, "No. We are still going. You are not."

Michael gave us a pleading look, "They're surely not going without me. Right, guys?"

Annette gave us a cheerful grin, "And did I mention my parents are not coming so it'll be just us?"

Before any of us could answer Eric threw Michael under the bus, "So, we'll see you Monday Kelso!"

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We were all eating dinner happily gobbling down the salad, baked rosemary potatoes, and pork chops I had helped Kitty make. She was much more relaxed after Christmas. I think it had something to do with the cheques I had given them. I don't know how she convinced Red that she still needed to work though since I had helped pay off the rest of their mortgage. Eh. It made her happy, and I wouldn't be surprised if that was all the reason Red needed.

Kitty smiled and refilled my glass of grape juice and I beamed, "Thanks, Mrs. Forman."

She nodded going back to her meal, "You're very welcome, dear."

Red waved a fork at Eric swallowing some of his pork chop, "Now, Eric, you're gonna be driving in snow so I'll put together an emergency roadside kit for you. In case you run into trouble."

Eric smiled and stuffed some salad into his mouth, "Okay, that'd be great." I wondered if he actually appreciated the fact that Red was doing something really nice for him.

Red nodded going back to his meal, "Preparation makes all the difference, Eric. Take kitty litter. I can't tell you how many times kitty litter got me out of a tight spot. Also take some candles, an empty can, and gum. If you get stuck in ice up there; use the gum to stick the candle in the can. The candle heats up the can, which melts the snow behind the tire. Then pour on the kitty litter for traction. If that doesn't work make sure you have a road flare. A road flare can save your life."

I nodded intently listening while I dug into my potatoes. Glancing over at Eric I could see he was zoning out again. I kicked him hard under the table.

Eric scowled at me and gave Red a sheepish look, "What?"

I rolled my eyes at him taking a sip of my grape juice, "He said a road flare can save your life."

Eric nodded absently, "Oh. Check. Great."

Red narrowed his eyes at Eric slicing into his pork chop roughly, "Road flare."

I gave Red a chipper grin, "Right."

Red's furrowed brow smoothed and he smiled at me, "Okay, now, good."

Kitty hummed happily, "How was school today?"

Eric brightened and started rambling, "Okay, you know my PE Teacher, Coach Wilson? He had this crusty stuff in the corner of his lip. So Kelso says to him "Coach, check out that crusty stuff" Last week, the coach- Dad? Dad, are you even listening?"

I could totally understand why Red would zone out during that. It was pretty boring to say the least. I ate another piece of my pork chop savoring how it melted in my mouth.

Red shook his head giving Eric a disgruntled look, "Of course I'm listening. And you know what I'm hearing? You need to buckle down. I've told you over and over again that school is so important. What you do now determines what you may do in the future. You want a future don't you?"

Eric looked slightly taken aback before nodding, "Yes sir."

Red nodded, "Good."

Well that was slightly awkward, but I considered it to still be a good dinner. The atmosphere was much more relaxed than last time even if Eric was being a dumbass again.

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I rummaged through my rucksack glancing up at Steven, "Puddin' pop, did you remember to bring the double sleeping bag?"

Steven rolled his eyes placing some rolled towels into our bag, "Why would I forget that, doll?"

I shrugged and stowed away our first aid kit, "You never know. Did I forget anything?"

Steven squinted at me through his sunglasses, "I don't think so. Donna, man, did you guys need anything?"

Donna had come over by the car and had been looking at us oddly. I wonder if she wanted to talk about something.

She smiled at us brilliantly, "Do you guys have an extra double sleeping bag?" Ahhh that was her angle.

I thought for a moment and nodded, "Yeah it should be in the closet under the stairs."

She started walking backwards towards my house, "Great. Can Eric and I borrow it?"

Steven shrugged and looked at me for confirmation. I gave him an 'I don't really care' look and he gave Donna a slight nod tossing Donna our house key, "Make sure to lock the door when you leave."

She mock saluted and laughed running towards my house. I rolled my eyes smiling giving Steven a kiss on the shoulder. Steven gave me a side hug while he zipped up our rucksack.

Fez sighed longingly, "Hyde, watching you and the little goddess makes me feel like I shall never find someone."

Steven gave Fez a curious look, "Yeah, man, I just don't get it. Those other girls were all over you at Forman's party."

Fez nodded sadly, "I know."

Eric and Michael seemed to have some sort of weird heart to heart, but I didn't bother trying to sort it out in my head. They were acting weird as of late. Red and Kitty came over with a sack.

Kitty brought me into a hug, "Be safe, Lin."

I smiled and returned her embrace, "Will, do Mrs. Forman."

Red patted my head and I slipped him a chocolate tootsie roll. He handed the sack over to Eric, "Here's your emergency roadside kit."

Eric gave him a thankful smile before peering into the bag, "Kitty litter?"

Red deadpanned, "Kitty litter."

Eric pasted on a strained smile, "Right."

Kitty handed Eric his bag, "Honey, I put some sandwiches in your duffel bag. Now why do you need such a big bag of oregano?"

Eric choked, "Donna's Italian." I shook my head. How stupid did he think his mother was? Kitty probably knew what they were actually smoking and let it slide. Probably due to denial or she might've thought it was better than them doing it somewhere else.

She gave him a hug, "Okay, stay warm."

Kitty handed me a brown bag, "Eric'll probably eat those sandwiches all by himself if he gets hungry enough. I made some more food for you, Steven, and your other friends, sweetie."

I beamed at her, "You're the best, Mrs. Forman."

Kitty nodded, "Make sure Donna comes back a virgin, sweetie."

I choked on my spit before nodded and following the others into the car. Steven gave me a questioning look before taking the big brown bag away from me, "Lin?"

I shook my head, "I don't wanna talk about it. I'll tell you later."

Steven shrugged, "Sure." I settled into his lap and tried to figure out what Kitty meant.

Michael called out to us while we drove out of the Forman's driveway, "Okay, I see what's going on. You're not really going skiing. This is all just a gag. You're trying to get me all worked up so you can go, "Just kidding, buddy!" Yeah, you got me. That's a nice burn."

Eric gave him a curt wave, "It sure is."

I waved at Kitty and Red's shrinking figures, "Bye-bye."

I spotted Red waving slightly while Kitty waved back wildly. I hoped we'd have a good trip, but know the gang it would just get crazy.

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We were up in the mountains by 4 pm and the snow was already drizzling around us. I was so glad I was wearing my purple parka with the fur hood. I glanced at Steven, "Warm?"

Steven chuckled and pinched my butt, "That's cause I have you and you made me wear this freakin' down jacket." It was a black down jacket that I had gotten for him specifically for this trip.

I wiggled into him causing him to let out a sigh, "But you look handsome. So?"

Steven rolled his eyes good naturedly, "Yes. I'm warm, doll. Thank you."

I pecked his lips and wiggled further into his lap, "I'm glad."

Fez stared out of the passenger window fascinated, "I have never seen snow before. It is so beautiful."

Annette sat up with Donna and Eric and started ranting, "Do you know what the best part of this whole trip is? That Michael is not here. He'd just be sitting here telling me how cute I look in my fur-trimmed coat. I know I look cute. I don't need him here for that."

We hit a slight bump and Steven caught sight of the sack Red had given Eric when it bumped into our rucksack.

He raised his eyebrow, "Forman, man, what's all this crap that Red gave you?"

Eric shrugged and distractedly stated, "I don't know. He's obsessed with kitty litter. I think he might be going insane."

I sent him an irritated glare, "Nope. He's not insane. You just weren't paying attention. The kitty litter's for traction, the candle and can to melt stuff and gums sticky so?"

Fez cheerfully pitched in, "We can stick stuff to it."

I patted Fez's shoulder, "Exactly." Steven predictably pulled me closer to him. One day I would bug him enough to tell me why he always did that.

We skidded slightly and came to a sudden halt. The snow fell around the car in flurries and everything was silent for a couple minutes.

Steven shot Eric a disgruntled look, "What the hell was that?" He turned me slightly and checked me from head to toe. I rolled my eyes at him and swatted away his hands.

Eric muttered looking out through his windshield, "I don't know."

We all got out of the car to figure out what the hell happened.

Donna shivered slightly and rubbed her arms. Why she insisted on wearing her thin coat instead of the green parka I got her for Christmas made no sense to me. She threw me a sheepish smile.

Fez stared up at the sky and glanced at the ground repeatedly trying to catch snowflakes with his mouth. He wasn't wearing cold weather clothes either. What was wrong with these people?

Annette was sulking by the car. I think she was still muttering to herself.

Steven blew out a breath and watched as visible tendrils escaped his mouth, "All right, doll. Don't say it."

I smugly smiled at him pulling him down for a kiss, "Say what?"

He rolled his eyes and got me in a tight hug, "Nothin'." He nuzzled into my neck and I pulled my wool beanie further onto my head. I could feel him mouth 'I love you' onto my skin and I beamed tightening my hold on him further.

Eric looked over at the rear left tire and let out a whistle, "I guess we hit some ice."

Annette wailed and shook, "Great, we're stuck!" I was tempted to throw a snowball at her head.

Fez picked up some snow and compressed it into a ball despite his reddening fingers, "Look, I made my first snowball. I love snow so much; my fingers are numb with joy." He gazed fondly at the snowball in his hands unaware of the damage he was doing.

Steven snorted and patted Fez's shoulder, "That's frostbite, Fez."

Fez looked at the snowball in disgust chucking it far away from him, "How rude."

He glared at the snow on the ground, "I hate your white man's winter."

I sighed and gave Fez a chastising look, "It wouldn't be so bad if you packed mittens."

Fez gave me a curious look, "What are mittens?"

Donna laughed and pushed Fez back into the car, "Get in the car, Fez."

Before going back herself, Donna shot Eric an expectant look, "Eric, do something."

Steven smirked, "Yeah, man, stop goofing around and use that kit Red gave you. Me and Lin'll be in the car." He gave him a strong pat on the shoulder before pulling me into the car.

Annette had followed us in and huddled next to Donna.

Donna shook and sighed, "It's freezing."

Fez moaned, "This is awful."

Annette wailed, "We're all going to die and I love Michael!"

Steven twitched and hissed, "Shut up!" The others went silent grumbling under their breaths. Steven glared at all of them and held me closer to his chest. I rolled my eyes and proceeded to roll down the window.

I popped my head out of the window, "Eric."

Eric paced and ran his hands through his hair, "Shh Lin. I have to think."

I rolled my eyes and pulled the sack that had the emergency equipment and threw it at his feet out of the window, "Your dad told us exactly what to do if this happened."

Eric shot me a frustrated look, "When was that?"

I sighed exasperated with him, "When you probably zoned out. Just use the gum to stick the candle in the can. The candle heats the can, which melts the snow behind the tire. Then pour on the kitty litter for traction just like your dad said. You need to pay more attention when we're eating dinner, Eric."

He sighed, "Whatever. I'll get us out soon. Make sure to calm those weirdos down."

Donna gave Eric a dirty look, "We can hear you."

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We tumbled into a rustic looking cabin. It smelt of pine and dust. When was the last time here?

Eric cheered shaking off the snow that had collected onto his coat, "All right, we made it!"

Donna nodded shivering slightly, "Yeah, just in time."

Steven sighed and plopped down onto the couch unzipping his jacket. I followed suit stripping off my parka and settling myself onto his lap, "That storm was getting pretty nasty."

Fez shuffled in shivering, "I am so cold. The snow has stolen my manhood." He fell onto the couch beside us chattering.

I looked around and saw that this place had a fireplace, which probably meant this cabin didn't have a thermostat. No wonder it was still pretty cold in here. I sighed and Steven rubbed his hands up and down my thighs, "Doll?"

I titled my head towards him, "Hmm?"

"You wanna get a fire going?" He wiggled his eyebrows and laughed quietly at my disgruntled expression.

"I hope you mean a real fire cause this place doesn't look like it has central heating," I slid off his lap and pulled him along towards the fireplace.

Eric came back into the living room with Donna both looking irritated, "There's only one bedroom."

Annette flopped onto the couch taking the seat we had just occupied looking at us forlornly, "It was gonna be for Michael and I, but since our love is dead…you and Hyde or Donna and Eric should take it. I won't need it!" She then proceeded to start crying again.

Eric coughed awkwardly, "All right."

Donna begged me with her eyes silently pleading and Eric gave me his pathetic look. I sighed and Steven shot them an irritated look, "Fine Forman. Big Red, you guys can take the room. Me and Lin can tough it out here in the living room with these shmoes."

I rubbed his arm and smiled. He bent down and placed a soft kiss on my neck, "This'll probably be their only chance to do it with some privacy any ways. We at least have your place for all our carnal sins." I giggled when he said carnal sins and he laughed quietly when he noticed. This was true.

Donna and Eric beamed at one another before bolting to their room shutting the door behind them with a snap.

I dragged a log into the fireplace and Steven searched his pockets for his lighter.

Fez whimpered, "I am freezing. The winter in my country is 70 degrees. We must hold each other for warmth." He started clinging onto a still very distraught Annette.

Annette wailed flailing against Fez, "Stop touching me!"

Fez kept clinging onto Annette and looked at her affronted, "But I am going to die!"

Steven found his lighter and I put in one more log. He leaned over and lit a piece of paper before throwing it into the log pile I had made. I dragged in the fireplace glass and we watched as it ignited giving off a warm glow.

I went over to Fez and pulled him away from the clearly distraught girl. He looked like he was going to cling to me, but fear passed through his eyes for a moment. I glanced over my shoulder and spotted Steven giving Fez a dark glare.

I rolled my eyes, and pulled Fez closer to the fireplace, "Okay, Fez, calm down."

Steven pulled something out of his back pocket and squatted before Fez, "You know what, man? This'll warm you right up." Steven handed Fez the flask I had given him last Christmas. "It's the hard stuff so don't…" We watched in awed horror as Fez chugged the entire contents of Steven's flask.

He happily muttered, "Yum, liquid candy."

I cursed and tried to take the flask away from Fez, but he got up and danced away. I glanced back at Steven who helplessly shrugged, "That was unexpected."

I sighed and started pulling our stuff out of our bag. Steven pulled out a sandwich from the brown bag Kitty had given us and helped me with one hand while he ate.

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Steven and I had found that the TV had worked and decided to make a spot for ourselves near it with our sleeping bag, pillows, and extra blanket. The fire crackled near us and no one was bothering us sort of.

Eric and Donna came out of their room looking rumpled and irritated. Eric sighed and asked, "What's going on?"

Steven looked up at Eric, ""Spy vs. Spy," man, they kill me." He popped a chip into my mouth while I continued to try and block everything else out. Annette's fake and real sobbing was a downer, but when we had tried talking to her earlier she lashed out soooo…nope.

Donna shook her head and pointed to a clearly contrite Annette, "No, with her."

Eric uncomfortably stated, "She seems upset or something." Donna rolled her eyes at his astuteness.

Donna looked around concern visible on her face, "Guys, where's Fez?"

Steven snorted, "Fez? He killed my entire flask of chocolate rum and then he ran outside, saying he had to make a snow angel."

I nodded deadpanning, "But he went out only in his underwear."

Eric pinched the bridge of his nose and glanced at Annette and a sparsely clothed deeply drunk Fez, "Look, you guys can need to go get Fez or console Annie."

I tilted my head at him and got up and out of Steven's lap, "All right, we'll take Annette, and you guys can handle Fez."

Donna and Eric nodded and we split off with our respective partners to try and do some damage control.

We approached Annette cautiously. I didn't want her throwing stuff at us again. We were less than a foot away and all she did was cry so I figured that I could just go for it.

I came over beside her and started patting her head, "Yeah, okay, we can see you're upset."

Steven awkwardly rubbed her shoulder, "Now, listen, all right? If it's any consolation Pam Macy would give it up to anybody after she and Kelso were through."

Annette glared up at us tear streaks marred with mascara caking her face, "What do you know?"

I shrugged and helplessly sighed, "Michael dated Pam for a long while so maybe it's just that he's nostalgic?"

Steven mouthed 'nostalgic?' up at me giving me a bewildered look. Annette buried her face into her arms again weeping dramatically.

I gave him an exasperated look. What was I supposed to say? What else could I say? I awkwardly patted her back while Steven took a position behind me staying as far out of this situation as possible.

The cabin door burst open and an almost naked Fez pranced in swaying, "I am a winter nymph! I love the snow. Hooray America!"

Michael came in behind him with Eric and Donna following closely behind.

Annette looked up and spotted Michael. She bolted away from us and jumped him in no time flat, "Michael! You walked all the way here in a driving snowstorm just to be with me didn't you, Michael? And you would never ever do that for Pam Macy, would you?"

Michael looked conflicted and squeaked, "No?"

Annette cooed, "Lover."

Michael smirked and carried her into the room that Eric and Donna had previously claimed, "You know it." They shut the door behind them tightly.

Eric sighed and shut the cabin door preventing more heat from escaping while Donna managed to get Fez to sit down on the couch, "Could one of you guys put his pants on?"

I shook my head and Steven gave them a dark glare, "You guys said you'd handle Fez."

Eric flopped down onto the couch, "Fine." Instead of pulling pants of Fez, Eric just covered him up with a nearby wool blanket.

We all took a seat by the fire and let out relieved sighs. This cabin trip went downhill pretty fast.

Eric wrapped an arm around Donna, "Here we are."

I nodded leaning back into Steven's chest, "Yep."

Donna let her head fall onto Eric's shoulder, "So, I still can't believe that Kelso cheated on Annie with Pam Macy. I mean, that is just a seriously uncool move."

Steven tapped a random tune against my knees, "Yeah."

Donna gave Eric a searching look, "I mean to risk everything for an ex?"

Eric gave Donna a warm smile, "I would never do that to you."

Donna grinned and snuggled closer into Eric's warm side, "I would never kiss Pam Macy behind the gym."

I let out a snort, "Never say never, Donna." Eric laughed and Donna chuckled.

Steven leaned back taking me with him, "This night turned out okay in the end. Sort of."

I nodded pulling a nearby blanket over us, "Pretty romantic."

Eric let out a sarcastic sound, "Yeah, it's just how I imagined it." Steven frogged Eric's shoulder, while Donna gave him a sharp pinch. I laughed at his predicament.

Fez looked at all of us before bolting to the bathroom, "I do not feel too good!"

Donna sighed happily, "It's not just how I imagined, but I think it turned out okay."

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Steven strolled in through my patio door smirking while I put away all the gear we had brought with us up to the cabin.

He gave me a hug from behind pulling me off my feet and swinging me slightly, "Guess what?"

I let out a breathless laugh still clutching our towels, "What?"

He placed me down back onto the ground and leaned against the kitchen island, "Forman got busted."

I raised my eyebrow and tucked the towels back into the linen closet, "For what exactly?"

Steven chortled, "Not for weed. Remember how he scratched the car?"

I nodded and leaned against Steven, "Mhmm?" I made sure to undulate my hips against his wordlessly indicating a change of topic.

Steven's eyes darkened and a roguish smile came across his face, "We didn't have any privacy in that cabin with those mooks."

I grinned and giggled pushing him back and running up the stairs, "Last one to our bed has to clean out the gutters!"

He ran after me in long strides tackling me into the bed covering us with our fluffy white comforter.

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Fez sat in the arm chair and kept flipping channels with my remote control. He alternated between channel surfing and popping chips into his mouth.

Donna and I sat at my kitchen island waiting for our cookies to finish baking in the oven. Donna had brought over one of her mother's magazines and we decided to try and figure out what made them so riveting.

I read aloud the magazine's article title, ""Hair Do's and Don'ts of Olympic Gold Medalists."" Did hair really matter when you were trying to win a gold metal during the Olympics?

Donna flipped the page over and I bounced pointing, "Oh, my God, is that Dorothy Hamill?" I loved figure skating as a child, and knew that that awesome lady was going to be an Olympic Champion no matter what kind of hair she had.

Donna nodded and off handedly commented, "She's a virgin. Speaking of ya know, those girls at school who do it, like, all the time?" I wondered how Donna could tell if people were virgins. That was an odd thing to recognize.

I gave her a curious look, "Yeah."

She let the magazine fall onto the counter top and shrugged, "All right, is it just me, or do they seem more relaxed?"

I nodded leaning back slightly taking a deep breath, "Nope. S'not just you. They're relaxed for a reason. See-"

Eric, Michael and Steven walked into through my patio door rough housing all the while.

Eric grinned at me and Donna waving from a headlock Steven had him in, "Hi."

Steven released Eric and walked over to me giving me a quick tight hug from behind, "What are you guys doing?"

Fez looked back at us and stated, "They are talking about sex." He returned to playing with my remote and munching on chips now and again.

Michael rolled his eyes leaning against my fridge, "Come on, Fez, chicks don't talk about sex, man."

Eric made a face, "It's dirty."

I rolled my eyes at him and threw an oven mitt at his face, "Yes, we do."

Eric puckered his face, "Great. Now we have to talk about Lin and Hyde's sex life. This is my worst nightmare."

Donna glared at them, "All right, you know what? Before you guys got here Lin and I were having a really good time. So get out."

Steven gave me a stoic look that seemed slightly pained, "Okay, you guys I'm gonna be nice about this. I'm sorry puddin' pop. I'd like some girl time with Donna, so why don't guys just go to Eric's basement or something."

The guys left grumbling all the while. Eric gave Donna a soft kiss and Steven wrapped me in a strong hug while nuzzling my neck, "I love you."

I smiled, "I love you too. Go have fun."

Gently smacking my butt Steven winked, "Will do, sweet cheeks."

We sat around my kitchen island and I plopped down some tacos from the fridge in front of us while Donna day dreamed out loud. The cookies felt like they were taking forever to bake.

"When I finally decide to do it with Eric I wanna be wearing something sexy," Donna munched on her taco staring out into space.

"Like a really short peignoir?" I happily bit into my taco. I had to make the shells from scratch since it wasn't something readily available to me premade at the grocery store. There wasn't that much variety back in this era food wise. I missed sushi.

Donna finished her taco in record time, "Yeah, sort of. And then there'll be candles everywhere. And soft music in the background and then Eric will come in and then we will have the most important night of our lives."

I savored eating the rest of my taco glancing at the cookies now and again, "So, if you have it all planned out then why are you still waiting?"

Donna sighed, "I want it to be really special. You can't give away your virginity more than once."

I chuckled inwardly. She wouldn't get how that was funny, "I get what you mean."

Donna looked at me expectantly, "How about you and Hyde? How was your first time together? Don't tell me you haven't done it 'cause Hyde's a lot more relaxed now, which I thought was completely impossible."

I choked on my taco and hacked it back up. Donna looked at my regurgitated meal with slight disgust patting my back while I coughed hard enough to turn red. This was certainly TMI day.

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My phone rang and I hurriedly answered it. Only a couple people knew this number at all, and I could count them on my hand. Red, Kitty, Steven, Rosita, and daddy dearest.

"Hello?"

"Lin! Remember how you said to go have fun?"

"Yes?"

"Well…we decided to go off on an adventure with Kelso's 'new car'."

"Why? What happened to your car? What Eric's"

"Nothing. Forman doesn't have his car because he's a dumbass and I don't trust the guys to ride in my El Camino."

"Okay….And?"

"Kelso was driving a stolen car and we got arrested."

"Seriously?"

"Yep."

I sighed and resisted the urge to bonk my head with the phone, "I'll come down and bail you guys out. See this is what I meant, by sometimes I really wonder about Michael."

"Yeah. I suspect it's because his mom dropped on his head as a baby. Repeatedly."

"That would explain it. I love you, puddin' pop, and I know you can't really say it because the guys can probably hear you. Me and Donna are gonna swing by the prescient and rescue your butts in less than twenty minutes okay?"

"Alright. We'll see you soon."

I put the phone down onto its receiver, "Donna get your coat."

She gave me a curious look while she unloaded our cookies into my cookie jar, "Why?"

I sighed and pulled on my green trench coat making sure that I had everything I needed in my pockets, "Cause the guys are in jail."

She straightened up startled, "What! Why?"

I dragged her towards my front door grabbing her coat along the way, "I'll tell you on the way there."

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I parked nearby and made sure to lock my car. This may have been a small town, but it certainly didn't mean that people didn't steal shit.

We went into the prescient and saw that the boys were already out waiting in the lobby sheepishly.

Donna stormed over to Eric and slapped him upside the head before dragging him away. I sighed and went over and gave Steven a warm hug.

I gave the other guys a disappointed look, "Do you guys need a ride home?"

Michael beamed, "Nah I'm just gonna drive my van home."

Fez looked at Michael warily and nodded, "Little goddess please drive me home."

Donna came back with Eric looking much happier than when they left. Eric grinned at me, "Could we catch a ride home too, best little sister?"

I rolled my eyes, "Come on you bums."

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Eric looked back at us squished in his car, "You guys enjoying your burgers? Got enough pickles on them? That's how Fatso Burger does them. Lots and lots of pickles." He grinned while Donna snuggled further into his side probably because Michael and Annette were pushed up beside them.

Fez nodded answering between bites, "Yes, yes."

I shrugged popping another fry into my mouth, "Yeah." Steven looked at me expectantly and I put a fry into his mouth as well. Lazy bum.

Michael happily stated, "It's great." Annette whispered something in his ear causing him to giggle.

Eric called back to us jokingly, "Got enough room back there?"

Annette whined and shot Michael a look, "Actually, it's a little bit crowded up here."

Eric kept that stupid smile on his face. Getting his car back made him a little too cheerful in my opinion, "Good. That's the way it should be."

Donna looked around the car, "Where do you guys wanna go?"

Fez looked at us finishing off his food, "I feel like going to the movies."

Michael grinned and gave Annette a lecherous look, "Let's go to the reservoir."

Eric took a turn on Benjamin Ave, "Movies it is."

Steven shrugged noncommittally while Fez beamed at the back of Eric's head.

Donna tilted her head, "I kind of feel like going to the reservoir."

Eric gave her a shit eating grin, "Reservoir it is."

Michael bounced Annette in his lap, "We can go skinny dipping."

I laughed, "Nope. I'm out if we're doing that. Can't swim, remember?"

Steven nodded, "If Lin's out, I'm out."

Donna looked back at us, "Well, we don't have to go skinny dipping. Kelso and his huge ego can do that alone. We can just hang out on the new benches they put nearby the reservoir."

I smiled, "Ohhhh…I heard about that from Mrs. Forman. It's supposed to be real nice."

And with that we went off to the reservoir to do God knows what.

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We sat around at our table in the HUB lounging around and occasionally throwing fries at one another. Eric and Donna cuddled next to one another while I sat in my usual position on Steven's lap. Fez wistfully sighed and stared at the other girls that walked in and out of the HUB.

Michael barged in and gave us a shit eating grin, "Annie and I did it."

I rolled my eyes at him. He always said that every couple of days now, "You and Annette did not do it."

Michael shook his head and insisted stealing a nearby chair from another table, "No. We so did it."

Donna sighed and gave him a pointed look, "You're always saying that you did it."

Steven flicked a French fry at Michael's head sending him an irritated grimace, "Kelso, she wears the pants and they have never come off."

Michael bounced and grinned, "Look at my face. This is a face that did it."

Fez stared at him with stars in his eyes, "Holy smokes, I think he did it."

Eric grinned and patted Michael's shoulder, "Kelso did it."

Michael cheered and pumped his arms, "I did it! Yeah!"

Steven gave him a sarcastic smile, "Congratulations, man. You did it in record time."

Michael beamed, "Yeah, you think?"

I snorted, "No, you moron."

Michael pouted and sat back down smiling again, "No, you guys don't understand. It's hard to explain to you kids that have never had sex before but when you're with a woman, something chemical happens. Now, Annie is totally different. She's like my love slave, and I am the master."

Donna shot him a disgusted look and I was tempted to throw my root beer at his head. The master, really? Dick head.

Steven rubbed my need and scoffed at Michael, "More like you're being a big dillhole. You are forgetting that you're not the only one who's done it here."

I rolled my eyes and elbowed Steven in the gut. He replied by tickling my side slightly causing me to pout.

Eric gagged and turned away, "I'm not listening. Lalalala."

Michael totally ignored us, "Yeah, I'm that good."

Annette walked in cheerily and waved at Michael, "Hi, sweetie. How are you?"

Michael looked at us and grinned before addressing Annette, "Actually, I'm a little bit chilly. But I left my coat up in the car."

Annette looked panicked and patted Michael's shoulder, "I'll go get it for you. Miss me." She left to go do his bidding and we all gave Michael varying looks.

Michael smugly grinned, "Handy little thing, isn't she? It's so cool."

I gave him a dark scowl, while Steven pinched the bridge of his nose.

Donna sighed and shook her head.

Fez beamed not quite getting what was wrong with this picture.

Eric looked torn between agreeing with Michael thereby pissing off Donna and subsequently me, and disagreeing with Michael.

Donna growled, "Cool?"

Michael frowned while a confused look forming on his face, "And by "cool" I mean "wrong and stupid?""

Steven shook his head at Michael's idiocy sipping on shared root beer, "See? You are a dillhole."

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The TV blared, "Don't forget, this Saturday night pro wrestling is coming to the National Guard Armory in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Watch Rocky Johnson take on 20 snarling midgets. Now, back to the action!"

Eric grinned and looked at all of us, "Rocky Johnson's coming to Kenosha? Man, we gotta go."

Steven raised my arms with his, "We're in." I laughed and wiggled while he started waving my arms around, "Damn it Steven. I'm not a rag doll."

He shrugged and continued doing what he wanted, "Mhmm."

Fez grinned, "I love midgets." Steven sent Fez a dark look. It was a well-known face that Donna always called me a midget with affection. It was only in relation to her height, which was unfair because she was like an Amazonian.

Fez pouted and turned his attention back to the TV.

Red called down the stairs, "Eric, I need to see you up here."

Eric called back, "Okay, I'll be right up." He kept watching the TV not getting up from the couch.

Donna gave him a curious look before nudging him, "You are not going up?"

He shook his head, "I'll go up when I'm ready."

I raised my eyebrow at him and stated in a warning tone, "That's seriously a bad move, Eric."

He shrugged and kept focusing on the TV, "Nah, I'll be fine Lin."

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Laurie walked in the kitchen and paused seeing how we were already seated and ready to eat.

Kitty waved to the empty seat nearby, "Sit down, Laurie, have some ribs." We had made some pork back barbeque ribs, with potato salad and creamed corn. I thought we did a great job.

She sighed, sat down primly and firmly stated, "Mom, you know I'm on my water and yogurt diet." I wondered why she was trying so hard to get thinner. It wasn't like she was really heavy to begin with.

I coughed into my fist, "The slut diet." I made sure to take a sip of my iced tea afterwards trying to look as casual as possible.

Eric beamed at me and tore at the ribs on his plate happily.

Laurie fumed, "Mom! She called me a slut."

Kitty let out a slight laugh, "Yes…well isn't this nice? My whole family together. Having family fun. Because that's what dinner is for. Right, Red?"

Red looked up from his ribs and gave Kitty a short nod, "Okay." I wonder what got Red so down. I tried to bring up memories about the 70's show, but I came up with a blank. They had been fading for years, and I hadn't really been paying attention. I inwardly sighed. I guess that would also have to go into the nope box.

Kitty sighed, "So. Eric what happened at school today?"

Eric looked cagey, "Why? What'd you hear?" I rolled my eyes at him. Really? What did you do at school that's making you edgy? Subtle you are not.

Red glared at Eric, "What's wrong with you? Can't your mother ask you a simple question without you getting weird?"

Kitty pushed the potato salad closer to Red, "Red, you need some potato salad." He grudgingly accepted it.

Red gave Eric an assessing look while popping some meat into his mouth, "Good job on returning those books."

Eric nodded and mumbled, "Yeah, I returned the books. Even though it was kind of stupid."

Red glared at Eric, "What?"

I kicked Eric under the table and he scowled at me. I mouthed an 'I told you so' and he stuck his tongue out at me.

Laurie maliciously smiled, "He said it was stupid, Daddy."

I could hear Red grind his teeth, "Okay."

Kitty sighed helplessly, "Eric, what are you gonna do this weekend?"

Eric beamed at Kitty taking a sip of his iced tea, "Me and the gang are gonna catch that wrestling match in Kenosha."

Kitty bounced smiling happily, "Now, isn't that something? Because a certain Mr. Red Forman used to wrestle in high school."

Red shook his head moving his creamed corn around his plate, "No. What I did then was real. That stuff on TV, that's all an act."

Kitty clapped and grinned looking at Red and Eric, "I don't know. I bet if you went together, you'd really enjoy yourselves. Right, guys?"

Eric waved his hands, "No, Mom, I don't –"

Red quickly shook his head, "I'm really busy-"

Kitty stated in a sugary sweet voice that promised pain, "So, you're going."

I inwardly sighed. It was certainly never boring with these people.

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The guys piled into the car while Steven and I watched on the side lines. It was looking like it would be a really tight squeeze if we all had to ride in one car.

I looked at Annette curiously, "Annette, what are you doing here? You hate wrestling."

She shrugged bonelessly, "Michael likes it, and anything that Michael likes, I like. 'Cause I like Michael."

Michael patted her head like a dog, "Yeah, that's my girl."

Eric made a face, "Oh, barf."

Donna shook her head, "That doesn't seem right."

I nodded, "Yup. I know."

I saw Fez try to wiggle around probably silently asking for some more room.

Steven gave Michael and exasperated look, "S'not gonna make Kelso change though."

Red and Bob were discussing something which led to a frustrated looking Red stating, "Get in the car, Bob."

I tapped Red's shoulder, "Mr. Forman?"

Red gave me soft smile, "Yes, Lin sweetheart?"

I returned his smile with one of my own, "Since there's so many people going to the match in the Vista Cruiser, Steven and I can just take our car and follow behind you."

Red patted my shoulder, "That's a good idea, Lin." He gave me a hug which I returned. I grinned and handed him a chocolate tootsie roll, which he gladly accepted.

Red glared at Eric holding out his hand, "Eric, give me the keys."

I shook my head while we walked away hearing Eric protest, "Why can't I drive?"

wvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvw

Michael glanced at Annette and fanned himself dramatically, "Hot in here."

Annette jumped to her feet and started fanning Michael with her hands, "You poor thing. Is that better, sweetie?"

Michael gave us a smug grin, "Yeah!"

I tugged Annette away from Michael, "Annette, can we talk to you for a second?" Donna gave Michael the stink eye.

Annette looked back worriedly at Michael, "Michael, is it okay?"

Michael dismissively waved and continued watching the wrestling match, "Yeah, sure."

We pulled Annette far enough away from Michael down a row or two to some empty seats.

I frowned at Annette and sat her down.

Donna took her by the shoulders and shook her lightly, "Annie, what the hell is going on between you and Micheal?"

Annie looked at us with big eyes and if this were an anime hearts would've replaced her pupils, "Look, Michael Kelso and I have made beautiful love. Beautiful, beautiful love."

I shook my head and sighed, "No that's not what she meant. Why are you being such a doormat, Annette?" Sure sex was nice, but that didn't automatically mean either person in a relationship should become spineless or less of a person. It certainly didn't mean that either person should take advantage of the other.

Annette sighed and gave us an irritated look, "Look, I have to be nice. What if he gets bored with me now? I don't want to lose him to Pam Macy."

I gave her a bewildered look, "Bored? Annette, he's gonna want to do it again. All guys want to do it again, although though you really shouldn't equate sex with love because sometimes guys are pigs. And as for Pam Macy…well she was Michael's first girlfriend, and he dumped her. Not the other way around. If you really feel bad about that then you need to talk to him."

Donna nodded, "Yeah, Michael's a dillhole, but if you really talk to him he'll eventually listen."

Annette smiled and stood up, "So what you're saying is, I'm totally in charge."

I sighed and groaned inwardly, "No. I'm saying that a relationship is more than sex-"

She shook her head beaming at us, "No. I own him! I am the man."

Donna groaned, "Annie, No."

I deadpanned, "Annette, No."

Annette bounced away completely missing the point of what we had been talking about, "Thank you, Donna. Thank you Lin."

We walked back to our original seats and Michael pouted whining at Annette, "You know, babe, a soda would taste pretty good right about now."

Annette gave Michael a simpering smile, "Yeah, you're right. A soda does sound pretty good. I'll have a diet." She gave Donna and me a genuine smile.

Donna shrugged, "Yeah, I'll have a root beer, Kelso."

I laughed and added, "A grape one for me please."

Michael frowned and ignored us, "Don't you want to go get it for me? Sweetie?"

Annette squared her shoulders and put her hands on her hips, "Okay, let me clear it up for you. Get us sodas. Now!"

Michael scampered away towards the snack both. I spotted Steven and Fez and waved. Steven raised his hand and sent me a soft smile. Fez waved back wildly.

Annette beamed sitting down happily, "Did you see that? I'm the man."

wvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvw

Steven and I spooned on my yellow couch watching Gilliagan's Island again. Fez absolutely loved that show for some reason, and I still couldn't figure out why.

I turned glancing at Steven, "So Valentines Day's happening tomorrow."

He hummed against my shoulder, "What do you wanna do?"

I let my head fall onto the pillow we were sharing and I clucked my tongue, "We could do what we always do every Valentines' day?"

Steven blew air onto my neck, "And it. We gotta do it too since it is a day of love."

I rolled my eyes at him glad that we were speaking quietly. It wouldn't do for Eric to hear us and freak the fuck out. "When don't we? No, I meant did you want to do something different?"

He shook his head and proceeded to give me a hickey on the back of my neck. I restrained myself from moaning and I pinched his hand. His chest rumbled and I knew that he was laughing at me. Steven patted my hip gently, "Yeah. We can do what we always do."

I smiled warmly and wiggled further into him, "Monster movies, and junk food it is."

Donna skipped in through my patio door, for once not bothering to knock, she plopped herself down onto Eric. Eric squirmed under her flailing in my fluffy arm chair, "Get off me, you moose."

Donna grinned and wiggled into him, "Eric, I didn't see you sitting there. You should really work on bulking up."

Eric straightened and pulled Donna further into his lap, "Maybe you should really work on bulking up."

Donna rolled her eyes, "What are you guys watching?"

Fez shot Donna a carefree grin, "Jilligan is on."

Eric and Donna proceeded to then ignore us and instead started sucking face.

Steven laughed and threw one of our smaller throw pillows at them, "Why don't you guys get a room?"

Eric and Donna paused and laughed. Eric picked up the throw pillow and threw it at Steven's head, "We have a room, Hyde. It's called my basement."

I snorted and managed to catch the pillow and dropped it down onto my carpeted floor, "Well, you're in my home and not your basement, buddy."

Donna flushed and sighed, "True. True."

Steven stated in a slightly snarky tone, "Hey man, me and Lin don't openly mac on one another in front of you guys."

I nodded and rubbed the arm that had encircled around my waist, "This is indeed true."

Eric pouted and adjusted Donna slightly, "Come on. That's different. Lin is like my baby sister so that'd be gross."

Steven rolled his eyes tracing circles into my hand, "So? Donna's like my sister and you don't see me acting up."

Eric puckered his face and turned to Donna, "Donna, about tomorrow night. I was thinking that maybe you and I could go out to dinner."

Donna looked down at him happily, "For Valentine's Day?"

Eric, the suave man that he was, deepened his voice, "Yeah."

Donna got up and gave Eric a kiss on the cheek, "Yeah, I'd love to go."

Eric beamed, "That's great. So then it's a date. Our first official date." I rolled my eyes at him; they were both far too formal when it came to things. If they weren't already dating what was all that coupley stuff then? Those two were complicated.

Donna rolled her eyes, "Yeah, if you don't count all the times I mauled you. Or that drive-in movie."

Eric sheepishly smiled and scratched the back of his head, "Yeah. Which I don't."

Donna looked hurt for a moment before resolved filled her face, "I'll talk to you guys later." She mussed up my hair and flicked Steven's forehead before leaving through the patio door.

"Bye Donna!" I waved at her retreating back while Steven called out, "Bye Big Red."

Michael walked in through my front door cheerily asking, "So Hey, guys. What's going on?"

Michael spotted a pensive looking Eric and sat in my recently purchased red beanbag chair, "hat were you and Donna talking about?"

Fez snorted, "Your hair."

Michael looked at all of us brightly preening slightly, "Really?"

Steven shook his head and deadpanned, "No, Kelso. Just no."

Eric sighed and gave Michael a longsuffering smile, "We're going out to dinner tomorrow night for Valentine's Day."

Michael let out dismissive sound, "Women."

I shot him a sharp look, "Michael."

He held his hands up whining, "It's true."

Steven threw a throw pillow at his face, "Kelso, shut up." It hit Michael in the head which made him give us a dirty look. He surprisingly didn't through it back and instead hugged it towards his chest while he watched the TV choosing to ignore us.

Eric bounced his leg and fingered his class ring, "I'm gonna give Donna my class ring."

Michael gave Eric a disparaged look, "No, forget rings. You wanna score with Donna, use my super funk eight-track."

Eric rolled his eyes and ignored Michael's stupid advice.

I glanced at him behind me, "Is that why you gave me your class ring, Steven?"

He smiled against my neck "Mhmm." I let out a content smile relaxing my shoulders into Steven's chest.

Eric shot Steven a disconcerted look, "You gave my baby sister your class ring before I could give mine to Donna?"

Steven raised his sunglasses and gave Eric a peeved look, "Yup. Got a problem?"

Eric put his hands up and let out a strained laugh coughing sliglty, "Noooo…Anyway, I figure it's time to make it official between me and her. She's just been waiting for any jerk to swoop down on her."

Fez laughed bemusedly, "And you are that jerk?"

Eric chortled, "Better me than some other jerk, right?" We all shot Michael a look.

Michael pouted, "Why are you all looking at me?"

Fez nodded astutely, "Because you're a cheating man-whore, Kelso."

wvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvw

Michael sat in his lawn chair with Annette precariously perched on his knee, "So, if Eric and Donna are going out Saturday night that means we have no wheels."

I shook my head and ate the last bit my Popsicle thoughtfully. He always seemed to forget that Steven and I had perfectly viable cars, not that we would ever let Michael borrow either of them.

Annette brightened, "I can borrow my dad's car. It's a Lincoln with leather."

Michael stood up picking up Annette along the way instead of just dropping her, "You know what we should do? We should ditch these guys and make out in the backseat."

Fez rolled his eyes at Michael, "You said that out loud."

Michael shrugged, "Yeah, I don't care."

Annette fluttered her eyes at Michael, "Yeah, I know. We can go shopping for clogs. Pick me up at 7:00." She pranced out of the basement back door glowing.

Michael sat back down a shit eating grin on his face.

Steven raised his hand, "Have fun, man." I silently nodded and waved.

Fez sighed, "I'm out."

Michael wiggled his eye brows letting out a lecherous laugh, "We won't be shopping. We'll be doing it. Again. 'Cause that's what we do. We do it!"

Fez shined, "Then I am in."

Michael scowled, "No, you're not invited, Fez."

Fez deflated, "Then I am out."

At that Michael excitedly got up and left the basement yelling over his shoulder, "Yeah. Well, later guys."

Fez tilted his head at us, "It looks like it's just you two and me."

Steven nodded and I let out a tired sigh. Today had been a long day, "Yeah, Fez."

Fez sat up suddenly grinning, "Can I watch you two make out?"

I shot him a disgruntled look.

Steven grimaced, "Look man, we're not into that kind of stuff." Fez deflated back into his seat pouting with his arms crossed. At this moment he reminded me of a child undergoing a time out.

I stretched and yawned, "Do you wanna just head over to my place and drag Fez along, puddin' pop?"

Steven shrugged, "What say you, Fez?

Fez jumped out of his seat, "I say yes! Can we have snacks?"

Steven rolled his eyes, "When doesn't Lin offer snacks?"

I got off his lap and we made our way to my house, "Hey, man! I'm a great hostess and that means snacks."

wvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvw

We lounged around my place eating various snacks and watching TV for a long while. With Fez around we couldn't really do what we had planned on doing for Valentine's Day, but the night was young and it was a weekend so I didn't really sweat it. We spooned in front of our TV like normal and Fez reclined in my armchair.

Fez gave us a bored look and whined, "So what do you wanna do now?"

Steven gave Fez a boneless shrug, "I don't know, man."

I shot him a curious look, "What do you want to do?" I wondered when we would be able to get some alone time tonight.

Fez bounced slightly, "Let's go to The Hub. I've got my eye on this plump girl."

Steven sighed and shifted slightly adjusting himself, "Sounds good, man, but we'll pass."

Fez gave us a pitying look, "Poor Hyde. Poor Lin."

Steven noticed that look and snapped, "What?" I sighed and rubbed my forehead and temple with forefinger and thumb. Steven hated it when anyone gave us that look. It was one of those things that just made him super irritable and slightly irrational.

He ignored Steven's obvious irritation and continued on, "Without Donna and Eric you two are bored. Like only lonely two pieces of a quartet."

I exhaled leveling Fez with a patient look, "No we're not, Fez. We do plenty of things without you guys around, including Eric and Donna."

Fez looked at us expectantly and for a couple moments all we could hear was the buzzing sounds of the TV.

Steven let out a slighted huff before pulling us out of previously comfortable position, "You know what? Lin, we're going to The Vineyard this year." I don't what made him come to this conclusion, but I didn't much care. We'd never really gone to a sit down restaurant as a couple, alone, before so I was up for it.

I sighed shaking my limbs as we all got up, "Fine, but we're dropping Fez off at the HUB first. I wanna hear about what happens between you and this plump chick that you talked about."

Fez gave me a gratifying look, "Thank you little goddess. Hyde is lucky to have you in his life. Just don't tell Eric what I said because I really like his basement and I don't want him to kill me."

Steven rolled his eyes, "Get up and get to our car before I figure out how to change Lin's mind about helping you out."

wvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvw

We had gotten to The Vineyard and were seated in less than ten minutes, which I found was weird since it was still Valentine's Day. I certainly didn't want to question it though. Wasn't there a saying about not looking a gift horse in the mouth?

My short green Mary Jane heels clicked against the terracotta floor while our waiter seated us, and I couldn't help, but grip Steven's hand. Once we were actually sitting down at a table, I smiled and took in the scene around us. We usually didn't do dates like this since Steven had a thing against large crowds, and I was kind of a homebody. Still this was nice.

Steven was wearing a plain grey t-shirt with dark black jeans and a dark blue blazer. I thought he looked very dashing, and he had grinned saying he was going against the system. That was true in this era, but not in the future. Still, it made me smile. I brushed away the creases that formed on my dress when we sat down. I had recently bought a yellow polka dotted pinup dress from the thrift store and altered it slightly. It was fitted to my body, and showed my developing figure, but still remained classy with a heart shaped neckline and thick sleeveless straps. It stopped two inches from my knees and I loved the expression it brought out onto Steven's face. It was a mix of lust and love from what I could tell.

Steven browsed the leather covered menu, "This is quite a menu."

I nodded looking at all the choices, "Yeah."

He hung his aviators on his shirt and coughed out slightly, "We got enough money?"

I nodded distracted by all the tasty descriptions, "Yep. You shouldn't worry, Steven. We'll be fine."

He shrugged frowning, "Sorry."

I smiled and kissed his knuckles melting his frown, "S'fine. Oh their roasted rosemary chicken with a crème pasta sounds nice."

He went back to his menu and nodded, "I kind of want their steak. It sounds good. Do you think medium rare is like partially cooked or something?"

I shook my head, "Nah. They wouldn't serve us actual raw things. The only place that would do that would be a sushi place."

Steven shrugged, "Yeah."

I put down my menu and waved over a waiter, "Okay, then you can get the steak and I can get my creamy pasta and chicken." From the corner of my eye I could see that Steven had nodded again with a wry smile on his face.

While the waiter made his way to us Steven grabbed my hand and shook my arm gently, "Lin. Look. Eric and Donna are eating here too."

We watched a different waiter seat Eric and Donna not too far away from us.

I looked at them and let out a bewildered laugh, "How'd we get here before them?"

Steven shook his head and stared at them, "I have no idea especially since Fez took a while to leave and we still went and got changed."

I tilted my head and looked back at Steven, "True."

Our waiter smiled and cheerfully said, "Hello! Are you folks ready to order or can I start you off with some drinks?"

Steven handed the waiter back our menus, "No, we're ready to order. I'll have a beer, a grilled steak medium rare, and a side of fries."

I smiled sweetly, "I'll have a long island iced tea please, and the roasted rosemary chicken with a crème pasta please."

"That's great sir, madame. I'll be right back with your orders," He nodded took our menus after jotting everything down and left quickly. He had the biggest reddest bow tie had ever seen. I privately wondered if it would be rude to laugh and internally shook that thought away.

I tilted my head and a frown furrowed into my forehead, "Do we look married?"

Steven gave me a befuddled look raising his eyebrow, "I dunno. You are wearing my class ring on your ring finger. By the way…please don't do that around Red. He'll probably kill me with his hunting rifle if he sees that."

I snorted and subtly fidgeted with said ring, "I'll change the ring placement later. That's not what I was getting at. He called me madame."

Steven leaned back on his chair, "So?"

I rolled my eyes at him smiling, "That means Mrs. in French."

Steven gave me a bored look, "Oh. And?"

I chortled, "And nothing. I love you."

He gave me a lopsided grin, "I love you too, doll."

wvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvw

We were half way through our meal when we saw Eric and Donna tank their date.

I twirled my pasta around my fork and paused, "Steven."

He had popped another piece of his steak into his mouth chewing thoughtfully, "Hm?"

I pointed at them with my pasta laden fork, "Look at Donna." I popped my pasta into my mouth savoring how good my pasta tasted. It wasn't over cooked and I even taste the type of broth they had used. This was a good restaurant. Or at the very least this restaurant had great chefs.

He turned and squinted at them, "Is she saying 'Here, chicken, chicken.'?" Steven snorted and took drank some of his beer shaking his head.

My eyes widened and I almost choked on what I was eating, "She's looking under their table."

Steven turned back to look at them raising his eyebrow all the while, "Is she drunk?"

I sighed and finished off the last of my past and chicken swallowing slowly, "Probably from the looks of it. She always gets a little loopy when she goes full out drunk. Oh! What's Eric doing?"

"I think…" Steven paused trying to figure out what was going on before he laughed, "I think he's actually singing, Lin." I cringed slightly. Eric did not have the voice of an angel if you knew what I meant.

wvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvw

We were half way through eating dessert when Donna decided to dive under the table.

I had a spoon full of ice cream midway to my mouth when I noticed what Donna did, "Steven, did Donna just do that?" I shoved the ice cream into my mouth making sure it didn't get onto my dress.

Steven shook his head and sighed taking another bite out of his chocolate lava cake, "Yup. I think Big Red's trying to drag Forman under with her."

I pouted and looked between their flailing date and my slowly melting ice cream, "Do you think we should go and help them?"

Steven shot them a glare before shaking his head again, "I'm almost done my lava cake though, and screw Forman even if he is your brother in all but blood. I think of him that way too sometimes, but he was an ass earlier."

I sighed and gave Steven a sad smile, "I know, but we can't just let them flounder."

Steven grunted and forcefully put down his spoon, "Damn it Lin."

I sat on the edge of my chair and batted my eyes, "Come on, please? Your lava cake won't go anywhere and I'll make you a rum and coke when we get home."

He had a mischievous grin on his face, "Rum and coke you say?"

I bit my lip suggestively, "Mhmm."

He rolled his eyes and stood up helping me out of my seat, "Fine. Let's go save Forman's dorky ass, but just so you know your ice cream is probably gonna melt in that amount of time."

I waved my hand dismissively while we walked towards our friends, "That's fine."

Steven shook his head and put his hand on the small of my back while we walked, "Bleedin' heart, Lin. Bleedin' heart."

While we headed towards her Donna yelled happily, "People, the chicken here is excellent!"

We saw Eric leave to probably go find help, or coffee, when we made it to their table.

I sat down beside her while Steven took a seat directly beside me, "Donna, sweetie. I know the chicken is great, but you need to use your indoor voice."

Donna giggled and put her hands to her mouth, "Lin and Hyde's here. Hi, Lin. Hi, Hyde."

I tried to smother down my laughter and let out a short cough patting her shoulder, "Hi, Donna."

Steven gently poked Donna's shoulder garnering her attention, "Big Red, where's Forman?

Donna goofily smiled, "Coffee."

Steven sat down and took the seat facing Donna giving her a cross look, "Ahh okay, look I'm just going to say this, all right? Donna, you are unbearably drunk. It would be okay if you were over at Forman's or over at Lin's, but this is a public place. You need to sober up and quit it."

I stood up and came over to Steven placing a gentle hand on his shoulder, "Steven. Don't be too harsh. She's drunk."

Steven patted my hand and shook his head frowning at Donna, "No. She needs to hear this. Forman's gonna give you his ring, so tonight's important, okay and you need to think about-"

Donna threw a bread roll at Steven's head effectively shocking him into silence. She then proceeded reach over towards us poking my noise, "Beep!"

Eric came back with a mug of what looked like black coffee. He gave us a questioning look and I pointed to our empty table. He let out a deep ashamed sigh before taking a seat next to Donna.

Donna pointed to us happily, "Eric. Eric look. Lin and Hyde's here."

Eric sighed, "We're on a date here."

Steven shot Eric a disgruntled look, "Yeah, man, so were we before it looked like you guys were drowning."

I nodded, "This is true. I think my ice cream might be melting."

Steven gave me an exasperated sigh, "I told you we should've just let them drown."

I frowned, "Steven."

Donna suddenly stopped and stated, "Oh, my God." She bent over at her waist beside Eric for some reason.

I gave her a confused, look, "Wait. What did she mean by "Oh, my God"?" Donna now proceeded to vomit all over Eric's shoes.

Eric groaned, "Oh, my God."

Steven let out a choked laugh, "Oh, my God."

Eric gave us a defeated look, "Look, you guys can just go back to your date. We'll be fine."

We were already standing up and inching away before he finished his sentence.

Steven pulled us away closer to our table while I gave Eric a half-hearted question, "Are you sure?"

Eric waved us away smiling sadly, "Yeah. Donna puking…is an unforeseen hiccup. But this date can be saved."

Steven let out a snort, "You sure we don't need to save it, Forman? Cause I still want to finish dessert with Lin."

Eric gagged and shot Steven a warning look, "Gross. I don't wanna puke along with Donna. You two can go. I promise; we'll be fine."

wvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvw

The stars twinkled against a dark blue sky and we all sat around the DIY fire pit in my back yard, which Steven and I had worked on last week. We placed the burning Mary Jane stick near the fire while we all reclined in lawn chairs. I comfortably slouched into Steven's lap and took two puffs of each of my inhalers. I let out a deep breath and sighed content with the world.

Circle time:

PAN TO STEVEN

Steven pulled a blanket onto both of us, "So, Forman, man I'm sorry about tonight with Donna."

PAN TO LIN

I nodded and searched Eric's face, "Is she okay?"

PAN TO ERIC

Eric smiled and threw a stick into the fire, "Yeah Lin, she's fine."

PAN TO STEVEN

Steven snorted, "And your shoes?"

PAN TO ERIC

Eric laughed, "Salvageable."

PAN TO STEVEN

Steven gave him a cursory glance, "So, are we cool, man?"

PAN TO ERIC

Eric gave Steven a warm grin, "Yeah, man. We've gotta be, we've been friends since kindergarten and Lin's basically my baby sister. We can't not be cool."

PAN TO STEVEN

Steven reclined back pulling me along with him, "That's great, man. If you break her heart, I'll kill you." I let out a giggle and tapped his knee.

PAN TO ERIC

Eric leaned in towards the fire inhaling more of the Mary Jane vapors, "That's okay. If you break Lin's heart I'll help her kill you too." I snorted out a laugh at that comment. Steven tightened his hold on me nuzzling my shoulder.

PAN TO STEVEN

He tilted his head and gave Eric a solemn look, "Deal?"

PAN TO ERIC

Eric gave Steven a lopsided grin, "Deal."

PAN TO LIN

I rolled my eyes at them, "You guys are dorks." They should really be using a bong instead of that incense stick if they wanted to do it out here.

PAN TO MICHAEL

Michael looked dazed, "Tonight, I learned there's a price to be paid for doing it. She said, "forever," man. And I think she meant it."

PAN TO LIN

I shook my head at him, "You have commitment issues."

PAN TO FEZ

Fez swayed back and forth, "The inside of my mouth feels like cotton. As if cotton was in my mouth, but it is not."

PAN TO LIN

I shot Fez a questioning look, "How'd it go with that chick?"

PAN TO FEZ

Fez continued to sway and sadly sighed, "It did not, little goddess. It did not."

PAN TO MICHAEL

Michael whined, "I don't know what to do about Annie."

PAN TO STEVEN

Steven laughed and started rubbing shapes into my thigh, "Kelso, man, sex is like muffins, okay? And once you've had a muffin, man you will put up with anything to have another muffin. And they know that. Now she really owns you." I pinched Steven and let out an annoyed huff. He continued to laugh unapologetically.

PAN TO FEZ

Fez stopped swaying unblinkingly staring at Steven, "Hyde, you sure know a lot about women."

PAN TO ERIC

Eric nudged Fez slightly getting him to blink again, "That's because he has Lin."

PAN TO STEVEN

Steven bounced me a little and nipped at my ear before giving Eric a shit eating grin, "Damn straight I do, Forman."

PAN TO LIN

I leaned against Steven taking a deep breath savoring the moment, "Indeed he does, Eric."

PAN TO STEVEN

Steven snickered, "My mind is calm like a still pond when I'm with Lin, man. That's how I know so much." I think he was just pulling bullshit out of his head at this point, but eh. He was having a good time messing with them, so why ruin his fun?

PAN TO MICHAEL

Michael nodded sullenly, "That's really cool."

PAN TO FEZ

Fez looked up at the sky, "I have a question. How much masturbation is too much?"

PAN TO STEVEN

Steven choked out a laugh, "No such thing as too much, Fez."

PAN TO LIN

I shook my head giving Fez a long suffering look, "Although that was a too much information kind of question, Fez."

wvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvwvw

AN: Thank you to everyone that favorited, followed, and reviewed my story!

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