Epilogue
Emily thought the news about Monica and Chandler was wonderful. Perhaps because of this, perhaps because lovers are more generous, Ross thought that maybe, sort of, possibly, it wasn't bad either.
The four of them plus Phoebe were sitting in Central Perk when Rachel and Joey came in. Rachel hesitated when she saw all of them there, but Joey propelled her into the seating area.
Hey,' Phoebe said, What's with you two?' Rachel felt self-conscious as everyone looked at her.
We're dating,' Joey said.
So that's what you've been up to,' Chandler said.
You mean you knew about this?' Monica asked. She and Rachel hadn't spoken since Rachel's visit to Ross. She had been so angry to begin with, but no permanent harm had been done, so although she hadn't liked what Rachel had done, she felt calmer about it.
Not really, I knew Joey was seeing someone. I just didn't know who.'
You're dating Joey?' Ross asked. Emily looked at her in silence. At least she wasn't glaring at her.
Yes,' Rachel said, We just thought we'd try it out.' She saw the looks on their faces, all except Emily, who didn't know very much about Joey and said, Hey, don't be like that. We're having fun, that's the main thing.' She saw Emily look puzzled as the others dropped their gazes. Er Emily.' They made eye contact and everyone else waited expectantly. I'm really sorry about what I did, and my attitude since you've been back. I had a lot of stuff I needed to get out of my system, which is gone now, so I hope you can forgive me, even though the last time I apologised to you, I didn't mean it. I really do.'
Thankyou Rachel,' Emily said. It will take a while for me to be comfortable around you, but I'll try. We can try for a fresh start.' Rachel wasn't quite sure what response she'd expected, but as the others relaxed, and she herself leaned back into the sofa, she realised that it was just fine.