Author's Note – I hope everyone is enjoying this story. Whether you've been a loyal reader from the beginning, a casual reader, or you've been bingeing the previous 75 chapters, you have my deepest appreciation! This storyline continues as new information from the past are revealed. Enjoy!

Chpt 76 – Un-Normal Pt 2

Time lapses and Brandon and Kelly are back in the house.

"Back to normal," said Brandon seeing some of Sammy's stuff around the couch.

"What?" asked Kelly.

"Sammy already has his stuff everywhere," said Brandon.

Kelly laughs a little.

Brandon walks to the kitchen. Kelly looks at him from the door.

"Do you want to sit?" asked Brandon.

"Sure," said Kelly.

Brandon pours Kelly a drink and they sit across from each other.

"Well, that was interesting," said Brandon.

"Yeah; they look like they need to get married right this second," smiled Kelly.

"And it totally escaped my mind that there would be a possibly that Dylan would ask me to be his best man," said Brandon.

"Really? I saw that coming. I mean; who else could there be?" asked Kelly taking a sip of her drink.

"Yeah, I guess," replied Brandon thinking.

"Imagine if he had asked Steve, would you be jealous?' asked Kelly.

"No, I don't think so; I've already done it once and it would've been fine for Steve to take over," replied Brandon.

"Admit it; you would've been disappointed and jealous," said Kelly.

"Well…. disappointed maybe; definitely not jealous," said Brandon.

Kelly is hunch over with one arm on the table holding up her chin. She is smiling at Brandon. Brandon notices.

"What? You think I would be jealous?" asked Brandon.

"I'm not saying anything. But I know you well enough, Brandon Walsh," replied Kelly smiling at Brandon.

Brandon can't help but smile along.

"Well, ok; I guess I would be jealous. But I'm happy for them," said Brandon.

"Me too," said Kelly.

"And what a shame that they won't be staying with us," said Brandon sarcastically.

"Oh, I am deeply disappointed," said Kelly sarcastically.

They both laugh.

"Oh, we haven't had a good laugh like this with each other in a while," said Brandon.

"Yeah. It was nice," said Kelly.

"So, what do you want to do?" asked Kelly.

"About what?" asked Brandon.

"Our living arrangements. Since they're not staying here; should we even bother staying here?" asked Kelly.

"Why not? Your stuff is already moved in," replied Brandon.

"Yeah; But I just don't want to get into it again with each other again," said Kelly.

"Kel, us living together doesn't automatically imply that we're gonna get into a fight," said Brandon.

"I know; I'm sorry for bring it up. It's just that I'm afraid that it's going to happen each time we talked," said Kelly.

"What? We just had a great conversation and we laughed. We can get along," said Brandon.

"I guess you're right," said Kelly.

"Good; so, you'll stay?" asked Brandon smiling.

Kelly doesn't answer right away.

"Ok, we'll stay," replied Kelly.

"Kel, I promise that I'll do my best to make this as pleasant as possible," said Brandon.

"I know you will. I will try too," said Kelly.

"Thanks," said Brandon.

"Now that I'm thinking about it. Since no one is using the other room, maybe I can share with Silver," said Kelly.

"Oh ok," said Brandon who looks hurt.

Kelly notices.

"What's wrong? Is that ok with you?" asked Kelly.

"Totally. I was just thinking that you would be back in our room," replied Brandon.

"Oh; I just figure that it'll be easier if Silver and I could share," said Kelly.

"Yeah; that's no problem. Whatever you want. I'm just happy to have you back in the house," said Brandon.

"You sure, you're not mad?" asked Kelly.

"No, not at all," replied Brandon still hurt.

"Why don't you take the room? I can sleep on the couch," said Brandon.

"No; that's ok," said Kelly.

"No; it's your house. I'm a guest; and it would make me happy if you can take the room," said Brandon.

"Ok," said Kelly who notices Brandon's disappointment and gives up.

Brandon starts to walk away. He suddenly feels Kelly's hand on his back. He stops, turns around, and faces Kelly.

"I'm sorry, Brandon," said Kelly.

"It's ok," said Brandon.

Later that evening, Kelly is sitting on the outside steps of the house. Silver sees her from outside of the house and opens the door. Kelly turns around and sees Silver.

"Hey," said Kelly.

"Hey. Sorry, you are up for some company?" asked Silver.

"Sure," replied Kelly.

"How is it being back?" asked Kelly.

"Good. It's nice to have my own room again. I guess I didn't appreciate it how much I love it here until we had to move," replied Silver.

"You had your own room at the hotel. You didn't like it?" asked Kelly.

"No, I did. I loved it…but it was always meant to be temporary. Every time I went in there, I was thinking when I'm going to leave," replied Silver.

"So, I guess I shouldn't tell you that I'm thinking about house hunting," said Kelly.

"Ugh. Already? We just got here," asked Silver.

"Yeah, it's awkward….for me at least," replied Kelly.

"I saw Brandon bringing out blankets and a pillow to the couch. Did you have anything to with that?" asked Silver.

"It wasn't my idea. I was planning on staying in your room with you," replied Kelly.

"Mmm….well, I think he was assuming that you were going to room with him….you know, given that you're both married and all. It's funny that he assumed that," joked Silver.

"I never said anything about rooming in with him…I mean, why would he want to room with me anyway? We were arguing almost every night for weeks," said Kelly.

"He's moved on from that. Why can't you?' asked Silver.

"Because it's easier said than done. You'll understand when you get married," replied Kelly.

"I hope not. You two look as confused as ever," said Silver.

"Thanks for looking after Sammy today," said Kelly changing the subject.

"You're welcome; but don't change the subject here," said Silver.

"What is it?" asked Kelly.

"He's giving you what you want. He's giving you the room while he sleeps on the couch. He's trying," said Silver.

"Silver, I know he's trying….and I know you're trying. But I can't help if I don't feel the same way," said Kelly.

"You're still mad at him for the nanny?" asked Silver.

"No," replied Kelly.

"For the fights?" asked Silver.

"No. It's been so long," replied Kelly.

"Is it Dylan?" asked Silver.

"What? No!" replied Kelly.

"Then what is it?" asked Silver.

Kelly doesn't answer.

"You don't love him anymore?" asked Silver.

Kelly doesn't answer.

"No; I don't know, it's complicated…." said Kelly fudging her words.

"Say no more, Kel. I understand," said Silver.

"Silver, I'm sorry. I just don't know," said Kelly.

"It's ok," said Silver who starts to get up.

"Can you please not mention any of this to Brandon?" asked Kelly.

"Sure," replied Silver who walks back into the house.

Kelly huffs.

We see Kelly and Brenda at the Peach Pit.

"So, to make things easier, I just made a list of what is already done and what I need your help with," said Brenda showing Kelly a printout.

"Great; looks very organized," said Kelly looking at the list.

"I don't expect you to everything by yourself. I'll be in this as well and I hoping that maybe Silver can be a bridesmaid if she's available and willing to," said Brenda.

"Totally. Please feel free to ask Silver," said Kelly.

"Great. Please also feel free to make any changes or add anything to the list," said Brenda.

"Well…it looks like you've got everything down. This looks very doable. You guys took care of the big details already," said Kelly.

"Yeah, Dylan and I had time," said Brenda.

"It's good to have free time. School hadn't even started yet and I'm; already swamp," said Kelly.

"Oh, not a problem. I'm just thankful to have you as my maid of honor," said Brenda.

"Of course. We're such close friends," said Kelly.

"Not to mention, sisters," said Brenda giving Kelly a quick hug.

"Right, sisters," said Kelly.

They let go of the hug.

"I still can't believe you're actually principal at West Beverly," said Brenda.

"Yeah, same here. I remember as a kid, I can't wait to get out of here; and here I am, running it," said Kelly.

"And Brandon is at CU. If he becomes Chancellor, you two will be a major power couple in the school district," said Brenda.

"Thanks, but I wouldn't go that far," said Kelly.

"Maybe. But if they have to choose one person, then it's gotta be you," said Brenda.

"Oh please; I'm no Ms Teasley. Sometimes I'm not even sure what I'm doing," said Kelly glaring at Brenda a little and taking a sip of coffee.

"Don't be modest, Kel. I've seen firsthand that we've been through a lot in this school, especially you," said Brenda.

"Yeah, sometimes I feel like I'm still going through it," said Kelly.

"Why? You're busy passing our detention slips?" asked Brenda joking.

"Not really," replied Kelly laughing a little.

"I'm going through different type of issues," added Kelly.

"Like what?" asked Brenda looking concerned.

"Nothing; it's not a big deal. Brandon and I are having some difficulty juggling between work and home life," replied Kelly.

"I'm sorry, Kel. If being maid of honor is too much work for you, I'll understand," said Brenda.

"No, of course not. I'm all in. Brandon and I have worked it out," said Kelly.

"You sure?" asked Brenda looking guilty.

"Yeah," replied Kelly who puts on a big smile for Brenda.

"Ok. Please let me know if you need help with anything," said Brenda.

"Oh, this is your wedding. I don't expect you to have to deal with the arrangements," said Kelly.

"Are you kidding? I was going to ask you to call Donna and drag her over here," joked Brenda.

They laugh.

Dylan and Brandon are at the house. They are both sitting on the couch.

Brandon is reading a piece of paper. Dylan glances at Brandon every now and then as he drinks his coffee.

"All there?" asked Dylan.

"Yeah, looks about right," replied Brandon.

"You think you can handle it?" asked Dylan.

"I think so. I guess if I need help, I can always call Steve for help," replied Brandon.

"Sounds good," said Dylan.

"So, you're really gonna do it, huh?" asked Brandon.

"Yeah. Is that ok with you?...cuz, I'm gonna do it regardless," replied Dylan.

Brandon smiles.

"You got that right. I can never control you two crazy kids," said Brandon.

Dylan laughs.

"But to answer your question. I'm ok with it. You have my blessing," said Brandon.

"Thanks," said Dylan.

"Are you guys planning to stay in Minnesota?" asked Brandon.

"For the time being, yeah. It's nice having Jim and Cindy helped out taking care of Abby and other things," replied Dylan.

"Must be nice to have help," said Brandon.

"Yeah, it is. Speaking of help, how are you and Kelly handling both working full time and taking care of Sammy and Winnie?" asked Dylan.

"It's tough but we're handling it," said Brandon.

"Ok. You two planning a trip somewhere?" asked Dylan looking around.

"No; why do you ask?" asked Brandon.

"You got bags everywhere," replied Dylan.

"Oh; um….no, Kelly's just doing some rearranging," said Brandon.

"What kind of rearranging?" asked Dylan.

"I don't know. She's doing this on her own. I think she's just throwing away some old clothes," replied Brandon.

"Right," said Dylan.

"Seriously, I don't know anything about it," said Brandon.

"I heard ya," said Dylan taking another sip of coffee.

Brandon looks at Dylan as he drinks his coffee.

"Listen B. I don't want to pry into you and Kelly's personal life or anything like that. But if you want to talk, I'm here for you," said Dylan.

"Thanks Dylan. But we're fine," said Brandon.

Dylan takes another sip of coffee.

"Would you like to hear a story, Brandon?" asked Dylan.

"Sure. What about?" asked Brandon.

"It's an old story about Kel and I," replied Dylan.

"Oh, do you think I want to hear this?" asked Brandon.

"I don't know. But I'm gonna tell you the story anyway," replied Dylan.

"Ok," said Brandon.

"So, right after Sammy was born, both Kelly and I were working. She was always nagging me on for not keeping up with the chores and spending time with Sammy. I mean, my job required me to go away for weeks at a time," said Dylan.

"Ok," said Brandon.

"Ok. Well, anyway, I asked her if she wants to hire someone to look after Winnie and do some house cleaning when we weren't home," said Dylan.

Brandon has a surprised look on his face.

"What did she say?' asked Brandon.

"She was against at first saying we can't afford it. But I was able to talk her into it," replied Dylan.

"Really? I've asked her about getting a nanny that my mom recommended and Kel wouldn't go for the idea," said Brandon.

"Well, there this is probably the reason why," said Dylan.

"Which is?" asked Brandon.

"Hold on, Mr. Eager. I'll get there," replied Dylan.

"Sorry; continue with your story," said Brandon.

"Thank you. Anyway, the lady turned out to be great and was a big help. Every night when we get home, Sammy will be asleep and the house would always be spotless…not like it is now…no offense," said Dylan.

"None taken," said Brandon.

"Anyway, a few months go by and Sammy was starting to learn how to talk. Both Kel and I were eager to find out what his first word will be. She was trying to get him to say mama. I was trying to get him to say dada," said Dylan.

"Ok, so what did he say?" asked Brandon.

"Mama," replied Dylan.

"Ok. Wasn't Kelly thrilled?" asked Brandon.

"Yeah, if Sammy had said to her," replied Dylan.

Brandon has a confused look on his face.

"Oh, you mean he said it to the nanny?" asked Brandon realizing what happened.

"You got it," replied Dylan.

"Oh man. Wow," said Brandon.

Brandon is taken back by the story.

"She never told me any of this," said Brandon.

"Yeah, she was pretty embarrassed about it. I wanted her to get over it because the nanny was working out so well," said Dylan.

"But you had to let the nanny go, right?" asked Brandon.

"Yeah. And after that, Kel and I fell apart. We were both really stressed out trying to take care of Sammy while working. Sammy was constantly crying. Kelly and I were arguing all the time. One day, I said I was unhappy and I left," replied Dylan.

"I hated myself for doing that, but I couldn't take it anymore. It was bringing out the worst in me. I didn't want to act that way around Kelly," added Dylan.

"When I left, I thought it would only be temporary and I would be back and we could patch things up…and maybe Sammy would be easier to manage when he's older," said Dylan.

"When did you come back?" asked Brandon.

"A few months before you came along," replied Dylan.

"Sorry," said Brandon.

"You don't have be sorry, Brandon. Everything worked out," said Dylan.

"Sure, right," said Brandon.

"As you may have notice, I'm not a perfect person, Brandon. No matter, how much I try to prove to anyone that I have changed; I just don't know when my old self will come back and get the better of me. I hope I don't act that way with Brenda," continued Dylan.

"Me too….but if you do, we're gonna need to talk," said Brandon.

"Sounds good. I can always count on you to set me straight," said Dylan.

"Thanks for telling me the story. Now, I seem to understand why Kelly was mad about the nanny," said Brandon.

"So, you did hire the nanny?" asked Dylan.

"Well, no; not really," replied Brandon.

"C'mon; spill; out with it….I told you my story," said Dylan.

"Yeah, but I didn't ask you to," joked Brandon.

"Ok then, if you want to be like that," said Dylan.

Brandon is silent for a bit as he contemplates telling Dylan.

"No, I didn't hire her. It's a long story. Kelly and I were not in a good place with each other tying to manage our busy schedules with work and taking care of Winnie. Kelly said no to the idea of the nanny…and now I know why thanks to you. I was ready to take the summer semester off, but I got the wrong idea when I saw Kelly with a teacher at school," said Brandon.

"She was cheating on you?" asked Dylan.

"No, but I thought she was. I wanted to get back at her by asking a nanny to come by and take care of Winnie as if I wasn't home," said Brandon.

"Bran, how's that getting back at Kelly for cheating on you?" asked Dylan.

"It was the best that I can think of at the moment. I just wanted to scare her. And I wasn't going to cheat on Kel," replied Brandon.

"And I assume she didn't like the nanny," said Dylan.

"No, she didn't. I was out back; so I could hear everything. Kelly was freaked out over this," said Brandon.

"But you two worked it out, right?" asked Dylan.

Brandon is hesitant about replying.

"We're separated….not officially…but she and the kids have been living in a hotel for two months," said Brandon.

"I see. So, when were you going to tell us that?" asked Dylan.

"After the wedding. We didn't want to ruin your wedding in any way," replied Kelly.

"Well, that's mighty nice of you two to do so….and I'm assuming she put some clothes here to make it look like you two are living together….for our sake?" asked Dylan.

"Yeah. They're still living here…for the time being," replied Brandon.

"You guys don't have to do us any favors. Bren and I can handle the truth," said Dylan.

"I wanted to tell you; but Kelly was worried," said Brandon.

"Yeah, I get it. So what now?" asked Dylan.

"Hey man, if this changes your plans of me being your best man, I understand," replied Brandon.

"Brandon, you were the only person I want to be my best man….for life," said Dylan.

"Thanks D," smiled Brandon.

They hug.

"So, what's gonna happen with you and Kel?" asked Dylan.

"I don't know. I really want to work it out with her. I want her back here," replied Brandon.

"Is there anything I can do to help?" asked Dylan.

"Nah; you and Bren getting married actually gave Kelly a reason to move back here. It's temporary but maybe I can convince her to stay," replied Brandon.

"Good," said Dylan.

"Yeah. We're not arguing. In fact, we're actually having good conversations…so thanks, man," said Brandon.

"Good timing, I guess," said Dylan.

"Do me one favor and keep this between us, will ya?" asked Brandon.

"I think we should tell Bren. I mean, we're getting married in less than two weeks. I don't think it's good for me to keep stuff from her," replied Dylan.

"You are changed man, D," joked Brandon.

"Alright, I'll keep it a secret…," said Dylan.

"Thanks," said Brandon.

"For now…..just promise me that you'll speak with Kel and you two can formally tell us," said Dylan.

"Ok," said Brandon.

"And soon…the clock's ticking," said Dylan.

"Ok," said Brandon.

They hug.

The front door opens, and Kelly and Brenda walk in. They see Brandon and Dylan briefly hugging.

"Whoa…are we interrupting anything with you two?" asked Brenda laughing.

"No, just two guys catching up," replied Brandon.

"Yeah; how it goes with you two?" asked Brenda.

"Good. We went through the details and we think it's going to be fantastic wedding," replied Brandon.

"Great. Well, Kelly and I still have a few items to sort through" said Brenda.

"But before that…..we thought to ourselves, why don't we make the guys dinner," said Kelly.

Dylan and Brandon look at each other.

"Well, looks like we just hit the jackpot with these two ladies, Bran. I'd say that we keep em," joked Dylan.

"I agree; they're fine choices," joked Brandon.

Kelly and Brenda laughs.

Dylan goes and hugs Brenda from behind, holds her tightly, and they kiss passionately.

Seeing Dylan and Brenda's closeness, Brandon hesitantly walks over to Kelly and unexpected kisses her cheek. Kelly is taken by surprise, looks at Dylan and Brenda for a brief moment and gives an awkward smile to everyone. Brandon looks somewhat embarrassed but smiles. Dylan and Brenda notices.

"Sorry, are we making you two uncomfortable?" asked Brenda noticing Kelly is backing off Brandon.

"No; not at all," replied Brandon and Kelly.

"Yeah, my hands are kind of dirty…so I didn't want to get anything on Kelly," said Brandon lying.

"Yeah, besides, these two were all over each other during their engagement. I'd say, it's time for some payback," said Dylan trying to help Brandon out.

Dylan leans in and passionately kisses Brenda again.

To be continued….