No Time to Waste
by TheRealXenocide
`
Disclaimer: I do not own the characters, settings, or anything else you recognize from the show Lizzie McGuire. The plot, at it's base, has been around since Homer, and this variant since Henry Ford. However, this is the first I've seen it applied to Lizzie.
`
A/N: This was, by far, the most difficult chapter to write so far. I had a hard time writing these different conversations so that they make sense with where they end up. Strange, really, as even my friends tell me I'm long-winded at times. I think I'll give all of you fair warning. This chapter may well leave your jaws hanging several times. You've all noticed that Matt can surprise and scare people, even himself, with his honesty about Miranda. Well, you ain't seen nothin' yet. While I believe I've built a reasonable foundation, he'll open up in this chapter in ways that may be very surprising. And then there's what Miranda says. You've been warned.
A/N: Personal notes:
JAMTillDawn: I know I wrote you privately, but I have to say this publicly. You wrote that, although I'm a guy, when I write for the girls, I sound like a girl. You have no idea how much that means to me. One of my biggest worries when I write dialog is that everyone will end up sounding like me. So when you say that, it means that I am succeeding in writing characters with voices different from mine. That, to me, is a complement beyond measure. Thank You.
eclectic: Oh, Ethan will be back. He and Kate will make an appearance in a way I'd bet none of you would guess.
Heather: Weasel? I don't get it.
`
Chapter 13
Declarations
`
In the Sanchez home, Matt was trying to help Miranda into a chair in the living room. Miranda, however, was still fuming. "I think I know how to sit down, Matt."
"And how am I going to court you if I can't be a gentleman for you?"
Miranda's mood softened, if only slightly. "Oh, fine then." After being seated, she tried another tactic. "As long as you're being a gentleman, will you please get me a glass of water."
Matt caught her game, but wasn't about to let her detour him. "Of course" he replied, with no hint or annoyance in his voice. Quickly turning toward the hall, he missed Miranda's amused/annoyed expression. Matt met Mr. Sanchez on the living room doorway. "Where is your kitchen, sir? Miranda wanted some water."
Mr. Sanchez had seen his daughter's face, and could barely contain his laughter. "It's this way" he said, and led Matt further into the house. When they got to the kitchen, they met Mrs. Sanchez. "Hon, Miranda asked for some water. Would you mind taking it to her, so Matt and I can have a talk?" He put an emphasis on the last word.
Upon hearing this, Matt's face was an odd combination of dread and determination. "Of course." Mrs. Sanchez replied, clearly amused. She then leaned to her husband's ear and whispered "But don't be too hard on him, I don't think you'll want to be around either of us if you scare him off."
Mr. Sanchez was trying very hard to keep a neutral face. "Follow me, Matt." He led the way to the back patio.
As he followed, Matt gathered himself. He's known this moment was coming since their brief talk yesterday morning. Once he had gotten home, what time wasn't taken with worry over Lizzie was spent asking himself the hard questions he expected to get here. A number of his answers had surprised him at first, but he also knew they were true, and accepted them. One thing he had decided was to try to handle this with a preemptive strike. He felt he needed to get everything out in one go. He didn't trust he's nerves otherwise.
As Matt came through the door, Mr. Sanchez waved toward one of the chairs. "Have a seat" he instructed. Matt quickly complied. As the elder man settled into his own chair, he was intrigued to see that the dread had faded, and the determination seemed to have something else behind it. 'I don't think I could scare him off if I wanted to' he thought. "Young man, I'll be blunt. When I was your age, all my friends and I could think about was trying to get in some girl's pants. As I understand, times haven't changed that. So I want you to look me in the eyes and tell me your intentions toward my daughter."
Matt caught, and restrained, his flash of temper at the phrase 'some girl's pants'. He gathered himself, recollecting his thoughts. 'You must make this count,' he thought to himself, 'your future with Miranda may hinge on this moment.' He then looked the man in the eyes. "Sir, I understand why you have to do this. I've known we'd be having this talk since that first brief talk in the hall, and I've been doing a lot of thinking. And I'll be blunt with you. I have had 'those' dreams about her. But I am also aware that I am not, in any way but biologically, ready to be a father. I'm not fool enough to guarantee that it would never happen, I know so little about the changes going on in me. And to be blunt, if it were her idea, I don't know if I'd have the will to turn her down. But I will promise you that I would resist the temptation with all the will I have. I will also promise you that I would not, could not try to force her into anything she doesn't want to do. I could never hurt her like that."
Mr. Sanchez looked at Matt with surprise. "While it's good to know you've thought about this . . ."
"Please, sir, I'm not done." Matt cut in. "If our wills should fail, and we do have sex, and that does result in a child, I will never abandon her. I love her too much to do that." His face took an 'I can't believe it' expression. "It's strange. When we were talking to Ethan, he told us how he scared himself with how deep his feeling for Kate had gotten. He was most afraid when he caught himself dreaming of a wedding. Strange, but I find myself in a similar place. The difference is that I am not afraid. I know I should be. What business does a thirteen-year-old have thinking like this? But I realize now that, if I had the means to support her, I would have no problem asking her now, today, to marry me. Is that wrong?" Matt had no idea if his tactic had worked. He could only sit, and ready himself for the worst.
Now the man was nearly astonished beyond words. 'How is it possible I'm listening to a thirteen-year-old boy?' Somehow he managed one of the only questions he seemed to have left. "What makes you think you're good enough for her?"
"I'm not." Whatever answer Mr. Sanchez was expecting, that wasn't it. "No one will ever be. But, if she finds something in me to make me good enough in her eyes, I will do all I can to give her a happy life. All I can ask of you is to allow her to make the choice herself."
"And if she decides you're not?" Matt's face momentarily flashed a pained, sorrowful expression. Mr. Sanchez caught it, but let the boy collect himself. 'It hurts him to even think about it' he realized.
"While I'll be hurt, if she decides that, I'll have to let her go. If she would be happy elsewhere, I have to live with that. As much pain as I'd feel, I can't force her to stay with me, and I couldn't try."
The young man's voice had grown so hollow that the older man regretted the question. "Listen to me, Matt. I can see how much it hurts to think about it, but I had to ask. Not just for Miranda, but for you." That got him a questioning look. "In the short time we've been sitting here, you've surprised me in more ways then I care to count. I can see in your eyes and hear in your voice the kind of honesty and devotion a father can only hope for his daughter to find. But, to find it in someone so young seems unbelievable." He then took a more conspiratorial tone. "Especially when that someone is a renowned troublemaker." Matt allowed himself a small grin. "I had to ask that last question, not only so I could hear your answer, but so you could as well. I needed you to think about what, for you, must be the unthinkable. I think you've passed that test, as well. Strange as it seems, I find I believe you. Your admission that you and my daughter could have a child so young does disturb me. But I realize that you were just stating what we both already knew. And I believe you in your promises. This doesn't mean you get a free run with her. I love her and I will be paying attention to you two. But I think I can trust you with her."
"Thank you, sir." Matt said with obvious relief.
"Don't thank me just yet. There is one more thing to discuss."
Matt's face showed concern again. "What is that, sir?"
"What you said to me in the hall. About being willing to die or kill for her. I admit, I am disturbed by that."
"But, sir, wouldn't you be willing to go to any lengths, even those, to protect her?"
"Of course, she my daughter" he answered, almost insulted.
"And your wife, as well, yes?"
"Yes." Now he was getting annoyed.
"And I have no doubt my parents would for me. But is it so strange that I would be willing to do for the woman I love what you would do for yours?"
A smile crept onto Mr. Sanchez's face. "I take the point. However, I think you need to learn a few things about tact."
~~~~~~~~
Back in the house, Miranda was waiting for Matt's return. Her annoyance was tempered by amusement. "I really shouldn't be so hard on him, he means well." She said aloud to herself. "I just wish he wasn't so over the top with trying to protect me."
"Talking to yourself is supposed to be a bad sign" came a voice from the doorway.
Miranda looked up and saw her mother at the door with a glass of water. "Where's Matt? He was going to get me some water." Miranda was starting to get worried, but tried not to let it show.
She couldn't hide it from her mother very well. "I think he'll be fine. Your father asked me to bring the water while he had a 'talk' with Matt." She emphasized the word talk.
She needn't have bothered. Miranda understood what kind of talk that had to mean. Growling in frustration, she asked "why do they all think they have to protect us?!? I'm a big girl, mom. Yet Matt hovers over my every move like I'll break in a breeze, and now dad is grilling him like I'm some princess who's never left her ivory tower." Her mother was silently laughing. "And just what is so funny?"
Mrs. Sanchez tried to stop laughing. "Miranda, sweetheart, I'm sorry. But really, stop and think about it a minute. Has your father acted like this with any other boy you've dated?"
"Not that he's had much chance to, but no. Other then asking to know who, where, and what, you've both let me be myself."
"That's because, while we worry about you, we trust you. Now, what do you think might make you father treat Matt so differently?"
"I don't know."
"Don't you? Tell me, what drove Matt to tell you how he feels?"
Miranda got it. "Because of the crash. Mom, I see what you're getting at. They're both acting out of the fear they felt when the crash happened. But, mom, I can't have them hovering for the rest of my life because of this. You all know me well enough to know I can't take being crowded like that."
"We know, and I'm sure Matt knows too. But we have all been so worried about you. And it's not just the crash, either. You haven't been handling this very well. The way you've been blaming yourself. And your reaction to the news about Ethan. You really scared us."
"I was really that bad?"
"Yes." She then looked slightly amused. "Isn't it interesting how Matt knew, almost by instinct, how to comfort you?" Miranda gave an embarrassed smile. "I think that also plays a part in this. Matt has changed so much this past week. I can tell he loves you, and I think your father does, too. He just needs to find out for himself what these changes have done to the boy. And before you start, realize that this is centuries of training at work. They can try to change all they want, but fathers will always fell the need to protect their daughters. With everything that's happened, I'd be surprised if he didn't do this."
"Alright, that explains dad, but what about Matt? He tells me he knows I'm not made of glass, but he keeps acting like he thinks I am."
"Think about how the week has gone for him. He didn't know he's feelings for you until he faced losing you. Then he needed to talk to Dr. Gordon to come to terms with them. Then he comes to tell you how he feels, only to walk in on you blaming yourself, and ends up shouting his feelings at you. That same day, he's there to witness you fall apart over the news about Ethan. This has all been a roller coaster of emotions for him, and as mature as this week has helped him become, he is still a thirteen-year-old boy. I'm sure he'll settle down in time. In the mean time, I suggest you enjoy the attention. There are countless women who would gladly trade places with you."
That made Miranda chuckle. "I guess so. I did nearly put myself on my butt out there. And it is comforting to know I have someone who cares so much. I just hope he can ease up some when I'm stronger. I don't want him hovering for the rest of my life. And what are you grinning at me like that for?"
Mrs. Sanchez had an amused/amazed look on her face. "Did you hear what you said? And I quote "I don't want him hovering FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE." An interesting choice of words, wouldn't you agree?"
Miranda looked surprised. "I said that?"
"Yes, you did. It sounds like you expect to be with him the rest of your life. I'm beginning to think Lizzie's remark yesterday was accurate. You already love him, don't you?"
Miranda paused, not really wanting to answer that question. She was saved when Matt and her father entered the room. She grabbed at the chance the change the subject. "Are you okay?" she asked Matt.
"I'm fine, but I think I gave your father a scare or two."
"That you did. But I'd say things went well. You've found a good man, Miranda."
Remembering her mother's words about centuries of training was all that kept Miranda from reacting sharply to that.
~~~~~~~~
Later that evening, when the McGuire parents came for Matt, the youngsters thought nothing of the Sanchezs inviting them in for a visit. They realized something was up when the dads vanished from the living room. "What's going on?" Miranda asked from the couch she shared with Matt.
Matt made the connection first. "Does this have something to do with what you two were whispering with Lizzie about yesterday?"
Miranda had another worry. She remembered that she had left her mother's question unanswered, and she hoped she wouldn't have to in present company.
Both youngsters looked very anxious. The mothers tried to be comforting. "You don't need to be afraid, either of you." Mrs. McGuire started. "We just wanted to talk to you."
"Sure," Matt replied, "my mother and the mother of the woman I love decide to have a talk with us after having at least one whispered conference together, along with my big sister, who just happens to be my lady's best friend. No worries there." After seeing the look his mother was giving him, he realized his error. "Sorry, mom. I guess I'm still tense after having THE TALK with Miranda's father. I shouldn't have spoken to you like that."
"You're right about that." Then her face softened. "But I guess it's understandable given the circumstances."
Mrs. Sanchez decided to start the questions. "I know your talk with my husband went well, but we need to understand a few things before we can come to any conclusions of our own. The first thing is for Miranda to answer the question I asked earlier. I know you said when this began that you weren't in love with him. But we've all seen and heard things from you that have had us wondering, and then your comment earlier. Miranda, we need to know. Are you now in love with Matt?"
Matt was clearly interested in this. "What comment?"
Miranda looked panicked. "That isn't for me to tell you, Matt." Mrs. Sanchez replied. Miranda was visibly relieved. "But I think my question deserves an answer. If nothing else, Matt deserves to know."
"This is crazy." Miranda sighed in frustration. "This is all happening so fast. I hadn't even considered this until Matt told me how he felt two days ago. How is it possible to fall in love in two days?"
"That . . ." Matt was stammering with disbelieving joy. "That sounded like a yes. Miranda, did I hear that right?" He took her hands in his. "Please, trust your heart and tell me, was that a yes? Are you in love with me?"
Miranda tried to avoid his eyes, but couldn't. Tears coming to her eyes, she whispered "yes." Then her voice seemed to strengthen with the first admission. "Yes. I can hardly believe it, but yes. I love you, Matt McGuire." She then lunged into a hug that, at first, surprised Matt. This surprise meant that he was unready to hold up their combined weight. This resulted in Matt falling backwards, with Miranda winding up on top of him.
Once the surprise wore off, all four were laughing. Matt recovered his wits first. "And your father asked me about MY intentions?" That earned him a punch to the shoulder.
After the couple returned to a sitting position, Mrs. McGuire spoke to them. "We want you two to know that all of us believe you two have something special here. But, we have some concerns."
Both kids looked at her with 'oh really?' looks. "Dare I ask what these concerns are?" Miranda asked.
"After the talk I just had with your father, I think I can guess." Matt said to Miranda. He then turned to their mothers. "You're worried about us having sex, aren't you?" This took all three women by surprise. Matt pressed his advantage. "Surprised? I guess I've been doing that a lot lately. But after everything that's happened, I want to tackle things head-on. If it's alright with you two, I'd like to tell you what I told Mr. Sanchez. I don't know if it will answer all your worries, but it's a place to start." When both mothers nodded their agreement, he began. He decided to stop just before his remarks about marriage, thinking that they weren't ready for THAT bombshell yet. When he finished, all three women looked to be in a state of shock.
"Matt," Jo began, finally beginning to recover, "I am surprised, surprised and . . . proud. You've really thought this through, haven't you hon?"
"Yes. I didn't see how I could not think this through. I honestly don't know if I deserve Miranda, but I don't want to lose her because I did something without thinking."
"Don't deserve me?!?" Miranda was incredulous. "Are you nuts?!? While I'm blaming myself for everything, you're helping me see how wrong I am. Not badgering, but helping. When I needed a shoulder, you were there. And you've even kept me from falling on my pride. If anyone is undeserving here, it's me." Before Matt could object, she added "but I won't say that again if you won't. Agreed?"
A smile crept across his face. "I can't say never, but I'll try."
"Good enough." This time, the hug was mutual.
"Well, this has been a strange evening" observed Mrs. Sanchez. "But in a good way. There is still something left, Miranda." Miranda separated from Matt upon hearing this. "We've heard from Matt about this, but not you. He seems willing to leave the speed of the physical development of this relationship to you. I want the truth. To borrow from your father, what are your intentions with Matt?"
"Children" Miranda said, not missing a beat. She giggled at everyone's faces. "EVENTUALLY, but not yet. We aren't even close to ready yet. But I agree with Matt. We are still teenagers, and I expect it will prove very difficult at times to resist the temptation." She paused. "Now, I have an idea for how we can further protect ourselves, but," she looked meaningfully at their mothers, "I expect you aren't going to be comfortable with it."
At first, all three looked puzzled, then their mothers got it. Their astonished replies were simultaneous. "THE PILL?!?"
"Please don't think this means I'm going to jump Matt the first chance I get. I know they're not perfect, and I don't want to do anything to betray your trust, any of you. I'm just trying to be realistic and responsible. Just think about it a minute. What if we should give in to temptation? Are you willing to make an innocent baby pay for our mistake?"
"No, of course not" her mother answered automatically. "Please, Miranda, try to understand. I see the sense in what you're saying. But you're still my baby girl to me. I need time to think about this. I know that the current state law would let you do this without my permission, but please, let me be your mother for a little longer?"
That took Miranda by surprise. "You'll always be my mother. Nothing can change that. I respect you too much to go behind your back like that. I'll wait for you, but please don't take too long."
Matt couldn't resist the opening. "In a hurry?"
"MATT!"
~~~~~~~~
A/N: Well, that chapter is done. I hope I didn't stretch suspension of disbelief beyond breaking. I think that anything you might have trouble swallowing will be explained in the next chapter. If not, well, all I can tell you is that everything I write here is at least loosely based on real events in my life or the lives of those I care about, and those are usually things I witnessed.
Next Chapter: More nightmares, new arrangements, and Matt in tears.
by TheRealXenocide
`
Disclaimer: I do not own the characters, settings, or anything else you recognize from the show Lizzie McGuire. The plot, at it's base, has been around since Homer, and this variant since Henry Ford. However, this is the first I've seen it applied to Lizzie.
`
A/N: This was, by far, the most difficult chapter to write so far. I had a hard time writing these different conversations so that they make sense with where they end up. Strange, really, as even my friends tell me I'm long-winded at times. I think I'll give all of you fair warning. This chapter may well leave your jaws hanging several times. You've all noticed that Matt can surprise and scare people, even himself, with his honesty about Miranda. Well, you ain't seen nothin' yet. While I believe I've built a reasonable foundation, he'll open up in this chapter in ways that may be very surprising. And then there's what Miranda says. You've been warned.
A/N: Personal notes:
JAMTillDawn: I know I wrote you privately, but I have to say this publicly. You wrote that, although I'm a guy, when I write for the girls, I sound like a girl. You have no idea how much that means to me. One of my biggest worries when I write dialog is that everyone will end up sounding like me. So when you say that, it means that I am succeeding in writing characters with voices different from mine. That, to me, is a complement beyond measure. Thank You.
eclectic: Oh, Ethan will be back. He and Kate will make an appearance in a way I'd bet none of you would guess.
Heather: Weasel? I don't get it.
`
Chapter 13
Declarations
`
In the Sanchez home, Matt was trying to help Miranda into a chair in the living room. Miranda, however, was still fuming. "I think I know how to sit down, Matt."
"And how am I going to court you if I can't be a gentleman for you?"
Miranda's mood softened, if only slightly. "Oh, fine then." After being seated, she tried another tactic. "As long as you're being a gentleman, will you please get me a glass of water."
Matt caught her game, but wasn't about to let her detour him. "Of course" he replied, with no hint or annoyance in his voice. Quickly turning toward the hall, he missed Miranda's amused/annoyed expression. Matt met Mr. Sanchez on the living room doorway. "Where is your kitchen, sir? Miranda wanted some water."
Mr. Sanchez had seen his daughter's face, and could barely contain his laughter. "It's this way" he said, and led Matt further into the house. When they got to the kitchen, they met Mrs. Sanchez. "Hon, Miranda asked for some water. Would you mind taking it to her, so Matt and I can have a talk?" He put an emphasis on the last word.
Upon hearing this, Matt's face was an odd combination of dread and determination. "Of course." Mrs. Sanchez replied, clearly amused. She then leaned to her husband's ear and whispered "But don't be too hard on him, I don't think you'll want to be around either of us if you scare him off."
Mr. Sanchez was trying very hard to keep a neutral face. "Follow me, Matt." He led the way to the back patio.
As he followed, Matt gathered himself. He's known this moment was coming since their brief talk yesterday morning. Once he had gotten home, what time wasn't taken with worry over Lizzie was spent asking himself the hard questions he expected to get here. A number of his answers had surprised him at first, but he also knew they were true, and accepted them. One thing he had decided was to try to handle this with a preemptive strike. He felt he needed to get everything out in one go. He didn't trust he's nerves otherwise.
As Matt came through the door, Mr. Sanchez waved toward one of the chairs. "Have a seat" he instructed. Matt quickly complied. As the elder man settled into his own chair, he was intrigued to see that the dread had faded, and the determination seemed to have something else behind it. 'I don't think I could scare him off if I wanted to' he thought. "Young man, I'll be blunt. When I was your age, all my friends and I could think about was trying to get in some girl's pants. As I understand, times haven't changed that. So I want you to look me in the eyes and tell me your intentions toward my daughter."
Matt caught, and restrained, his flash of temper at the phrase 'some girl's pants'. He gathered himself, recollecting his thoughts. 'You must make this count,' he thought to himself, 'your future with Miranda may hinge on this moment.' He then looked the man in the eyes. "Sir, I understand why you have to do this. I've known we'd be having this talk since that first brief talk in the hall, and I've been doing a lot of thinking. And I'll be blunt with you. I have had 'those' dreams about her. But I am also aware that I am not, in any way but biologically, ready to be a father. I'm not fool enough to guarantee that it would never happen, I know so little about the changes going on in me. And to be blunt, if it were her idea, I don't know if I'd have the will to turn her down. But I will promise you that I would resist the temptation with all the will I have. I will also promise you that I would not, could not try to force her into anything she doesn't want to do. I could never hurt her like that."
Mr. Sanchez looked at Matt with surprise. "While it's good to know you've thought about this . . ."
"Please, sir, I'm not done." Matt cut in. "If our wills should fail, and we do have sex, and that does result in a child, I will never abandon her. I love her too much to do that." His face took an 'I can't believe it' expression. "It's strange. When we were talking to Ethan, he told us how he scared himself with how deep his feeling for Kate had gotten. He was most afraid when he caught himself dreaming of a wedding. Strange, but I find myself in a similar place. The difference is that I am not afraid. I know I should be. What business does a thirteen-year-old have thinking like this? But I realize now that, if I had the means to support her, I would have no problem asking her now, today, to marry me. Is that wrong?" Matt had no idea if his tactic had worked. He could only sit, and ready himself for the worst.
Now the man was nearly astonished beyond words. 'How is it possible I'm listening to a thirteen-year-old boy?' Somehow he managed one of the only questions he seemed to have left. "What makes you think you're good enough for her?"
"I'm not." Whatever answer Mr. Sanchez was expecting, that wasn't it. "No one will ever be. But, if she finds something in me to make me good enough in her eyes, I will do all I can to give her a happy life. All I can ask of you is to allow her to make the choice herself."
"And if she decides you're not?" Matt's face momentarily flashed a pained, sorrowful expression. Mr. Sanchez caught it, but let the boy collect himself. 'It hurts him to even think about it' he realized.
"While I'll be hurt, if she decides that, I'll have to let her go. If she would be happy elsewhere, I have to live with that. As much pain as I'd feel, I can't force her to stay with me, and I couldn't try."
The young man's voice had grown so hollow that the older man regretted the question. "Listen to me, Matt. I can see how much it hurts to think about it, but I had to ask. Not just for Miranda, but for you." That got him a questioning look. "In the short time we've been sitting here, you've surprised me in more ways then I care to count. I can see in your eyes and hear in your voice the kind of honesty and devotion a father can only hope for his daughter to find. But, to find it in someone so young seems unbelievable." He then took a more conspiratorial tone. "Especially when that someone is a renowned troublemaker." Matt allowed himself a small grin. "I had to ask that last question, not only so I could hear your answer, but so you could as well. I needed you to think about what, for you, must be the unthinkable. I think you've passed that test, as well. Strange as it seems, I find I believe you. Your admission that you and my daughter could have a child so young does disturb me. But I realize that you were just stating what we both already knew. And I believe you in your promises. This doesn't mean you get a free run with her. I love her and I will be paying attention to you two. But I think I can trust you with her."
"Thank you, sir." Matt said with obvious relief.
"Don't thank me just yet. There is one more thing to discuss."
Matt's face showed concern again. "What is that, sir?"
"What you said to me in the hall. About being willing to die or kill for her. I admit, I am disturbed by that."
"But, sir, wouldn't you be willing to go to any lengths, even those, to protect her?"
"Of course, she my daughter" he answered, almost insulted.
"And your wife, as well, yes?"
"Yes." Now he was getting annoyed.
"And I have no doubt my parents would for me. But is it so strange that I would be willing to do for the woman I love what you would do for yours?"
A smile crept onto Mr. Sanchez's face. "I take the point. However, I think you need to learn a few things about tact."
~~~~~~~~
Back in the house, Miranda was waiting for Matt's return. Her annoyance was tempered by amusement. "I really shouldn't be so hard on him, he means well." She said aloud to herself. "I just wish he wasn't so over the top with trying to protect me."
"Talking to yourself is supposed to be a bad sign" came a voice from the doorway.
Miranda looked up and saw her mother at the door with a glass of water. "Where's Matt? He was going to get me some water." Miranda was starting to get worried, but tried not to let it show.
She couldn't hide it from her mother very well. "I think he'll be fine. Your father asked me to bring the water while he had a 'talk' with Matt." She emphasized the word talk.
She needn't have bothered. Miranda understood what kind of talk that had to mean. Growling in frustration, she asked "why do they all think they have to protect us?!? I'm a big girl, mom. Yet Matt hovers over my every move like I'll break in a breeze, and now dad is grilling him like I'm some princess who's never left her ivory tower." Her mother was silently laughing. "And just what is so funny?"
Mrs. Sanchez tried to stop laughing. "Miranda, sweetheart, I'm sorry. But really, stop and think about it a minute. Has your father acted like this with any other boy you've dated?"
"Not that he's had much chance to, but no. Other then asking to know who, where, and what, you've both let me be myself."
"That's because, while we worry about you, we trust you. Now, what do you think might make you father treat Matt so differently?"
"I don't know."
"Don't you? Tell me, what drove Matt to tell you how he feels?"
Miranda got it. "Because of the crash. Mom, I see what you're getting at. They're both acting out of the fear they felt when the crash happened. But, mom, I can't have them hovering for the rest of my life because of this. You all know me well enough to know I can't take being crowded like that."
"We know, and I'm sure Matt knows too. But we have all been so worried about you. And it's not just the crash, either. You haven't been handling this very well. The way you've been blaming yourself. And your reaction to the news about Ethan. You really scared us."
"I was really that bad?"
"Yes." She then looked slightly amused. "Isn't it interesting how Matt knew, almost by instinct, how to comfort you?" Miranda gave an embarrassed smile. "I think that also plays a part in this. Matt has changed so much this past week. I can tell he loves you, and I think your father does, too. He just needs to find out for himself what these changes have done to the boy. And before you start, realize that this is centuries of training at work. They can try to change all they want, but fathers will always fell the need to protect their daughters. With everything that's happened, I'd be surprised if he didn't do this."
"Alright, that explains dad, but what about Matt? He tells me he knows I'm not made of glass, but he keeps acting like he thinks I am."
"Think about how the week has gone for him. He didn't know he's feelings for you until he faced losing you. Then he needed to talk to Dr. Gordon to come to terms with them. Then he comes to tell you how he feels, only to walk in on you blaming yourself, and ends up shouting his feelings at you. That same day, he's there to witness you fall apart over the news about Ethan. This has all been a roller coaster of emotions for him, and as mature as this week has helped him become, he is still a thirteen-year-old boy. I'm sure he'll settle down in time. In the mean time, I suggest you enjoy the attention. There are countless women who would gladly trade places with you."
That made Miranda chuckle. "I guess so. I did nearly put myself on my butt out there. And it is comforting to know I have someone who cares so much. I just hope he can ease up some when I'm stronger. I don't want him hovering for the rest of my life. And what are you grinning at me like that for?"
Mrs. Sanchez had an amused/amazed look on her face. "Did you hear what you said? And I quote "I don't want him hovering FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE." An interesting choice of words, wouldn't you agree?"
Miranda looked surprised. "I said that?"
"Yes, you did. It sounds like you expect to be with him the rest of your life. I'm beginning to think Lizzie's remark yesterday was accurate. You already love him, don't you?"
Miranda paused, not really wanting to answer that question. She was saved when Matt and her father entered the room. She grabbed at the chance the change the subject. "Are you okay?" she asked Matt.
"I'm fine, but I think I gave your father a scare or two."
"That you did. But I'd say things went well. You've found a good man, Miranda."
Remembering her mother's words about centuries of training was all that kept Miranda from reacting sharply to that.
~~~~~~~~
Later that evening, when the McGuire parents came for Matt, the youngsters thought nothing of the Sanchezs inviting them in for a visit. They realized something was up when the dads vanished from the living room. "What's going on?" Miranda asked from the couch she shared with Matt.
Matt made the connection first. "Does this have something to do with what you two were whispering with Lizzie about yesterday?"
Miranda had another worry. She remembered that she had left her mother's question unanswered, and she hoped she wouldn't have to in present company.
Both youngsters looked very anxious. The mothers tried to be comforting. "You don't need to be afraid, either of you." Mrs. McGuire started. "We just wanted to talk to you."
"Sure," Matt replied, "my mother and the mother of the woman I love decide to have a talk with us after having at least one whispered conference together, along with my big sister, who just happens to be my lady's best friend. No worries there." After seeing the look his mother was giving him, he realized his error. "Sorry, mom. I guess I'm still tense after having THE TALK with Miranda's father. I shouldn't have spoken to you like that."
"You're right about that." Then her face softened. "But I guess it's understandable given the circumstances."
Mrs. Sanchez decided to start the questions. "I know your talk with my husband went well, but we need to understand a few things before we can come to any conclusions of our own. The first thing is for Miranda to answer the question I asked earlier. I know you said when this began that you weren't in love with him. But we've all seen and heard things from you that have had us wondering, and then your comment earlier. Miranda, we need to know. Are you now in love with Matt?"
Matt was clearly interested in this. "What comment?"
Miranda looked panicked. "That isn't for me to tell you, Matt." Mrs. Sanchez replied. Miranda was visibly relieved. "But I think my question deserves an answer. If nothing else, Matt deserves to know."
"This is crazy." Miranda sighed in frustration. "This is all happening so fast. I hadn't even considered this until Matt told me how he felt two days ago. How is it possible to fall in love in two days?"
"That . . ." Matt was stammering with disbelieving joy. "That sounded like a yes. Miranda, did I hear that right?" He took her hands in his. "Please, trust your heart and tell me, was that a yes? Are you in love with me?"
Miranda tried to avoid his eyes, but couldn't. Tears coming to her eyes, she whispered "yes." Then her voice seemed to strengthen with the first admission. "Yes. I can hardly believe it, but yes. I love you, Matt McGuire." She then lunged into a hug that, at first, surprised Matt. This surprise meant that he was unready to hold up their combined weight. This resulted in Matt falling backwards, with Miranda winding up on top of him.
Once the surprise wore off, all four were laughing. Matt recovered his wits first. "And your father asked me about MY intentions?" That earned him a punch to the shoulder.
After the couple returned to a sitting position, Mrs. McGuire spoke to them. "We want you two to know that all of us believe you two have something special here. But, we have some concerns."
Both kids looked at her with 'oh really?' looks. "Dare I ask what these concerns are?" Miranda asked.
"After the talk I just had with your father, I think I can guess." Matt said to Miranda. He then turned to their mothers. "You're worried about us having sex, aren't you?" This took all three women by surprise. Matt pressed his advantage. "Surprised? I guess I've been doing that a lot lately. But after everything that's happened, I want to tackle things head-on. If it's alright with you two, I'd like to tell you what I told Mr. Sanchez. I don't know if it will answer all your worries, but it's a place to start." When both mothers nodded their agreement, he began. He decided to stop just before his remarks about marriage, thinking that they weren't ready for THAT bombshell yet. When he finished, all three women looked to be in a state of shock.
"Matt," Jo began, finally beginning to recover, "I am surprised, surprised and . . . proud. You've really thought this through, haven't you hon?"
"Yes. I didn't see how I could not think this through. I honestly don't know if I deserve Miranda, but I don't want to lose her because I did something without thinking."
"Don't deserve me?!?" Miranda was incredulous. "Are you nuts?!? While I'm blaming myself for everything, you're helping me see how wrong I am. Not badgering, but helping. When I needed a shoulder, you were there. And you've even kept me from falling on my pride. If anyone is undeserving here, it's me." Before Matt could object, she added "but I won't say that again if you won't. Agreed?"
A smile crept across his face. "I can't say never, but I'll try."
"Good enough." This time, the hug was mutual.
"Well, this has been a strange evening" observed Mrs. Sanchez. "But in a good way. There is still something left, Miranda." Miranda separated from Matt upon hearing this. "We've heard from Matt about this, but not you. He seems willing to leave the speed of the physical development of this relationship to you. I want the truth. To borrow from your father, what are your intentions with Matt?"
"Children" Miranda said, not missing a beat. She giggled at everyone's faces. "EVENTUALLY, but not yet. We aren't even close to ready yet. But I agree with Matt. We are still teenagers, and I expect it will prove very difficult at times to resist the temptation." She paused. "Now, I have an idea for how we can further protect ourselves, but," she looked meaningfully at their mothers, "I expect you aren't going to be comfortable with it."
At first, all three looked puzzled, then their mothers got it. Their astonished replies were simultaneous. "THE PILL?!?"
"Please don't think this means I'm going to jump Matt the first chance I get. I know they're not perfect, and I don't want to do anything to betray your trust, any of you. I'm just trying to be realistic and responsible. Just think about it a minute. What if we should give in to temptation? Are you willing to make an innocent baby pay for our mistake?"
"No, of course not" her mother answered automatically. "Please, Miranda, try to understand. I see the sense in what you're saying. But you're still my baby girl to me. I need time to think about this. I know that the current state law would let you do this without my permission, but please, let me be your mother for a little longer?"
That took Miranda by surprise. "You'll always be my mother. Nothing can change that. I respect you too much to go behind your back like that. I'll wait for you, but please don't take too long."
Matt couldn't resist the opening. "In a hurry?"
"MATT!"
~~~~~~~~
A/N: Well, that chapter is done. I hope I didn't stretch suspension of disbelief beyond breaking. I think that anything you might have trouble swallowing will be explained in the next chapter. If not, well, all I can tell you is that everything I write here is at least loosely based on real events in my life or the lives of those I care about, and those are usually things I witnessed.
Next Chapter: More nightmares, new arrangements, and Matt in tears.