Josh breaths a sigh of relief. He's glad Riley can help. And he knows it'll be good for Maya to see her again, even though she may not think so at first. He goes to get bacon out of the fridge to start cooking, when he suddenly hears a cry from his bedroom: "Where are you Josh! Oh God, please don't leave me!" He can hear the fear in Maya's voice as she cries out for him. He drops what he's doing and runs down the hallway to his bedroom. He runs to his bed and kneels down next to it, and Maya.
She throws her arms around his neck, she's shivering, though not from being cold. She begins to whimper. "I woke up and you were gone," she says, "I thought you had left me, I was scared."
"I'm right here Maya," he tells her trying to sooth her nerves. "I was in the kitchen putting on some coffee and starting breakfast." She nods her head without letting go of him. He untangles her arms from his neck, puts his hands gently on her face, and looks into her frightened eyes. "I'll never leave you Maya….never. There's nothing that would ever make me leave you, okay." She nods her head then and relaxes a little.
Josh gives her a warm, reassuring smile and says: "Why don't you go back to sleep. I'll keep your breakfast warm for when you get up."
"I'd rather not be alone," she tells him, "I won't be able to go back to sleep anyway, so can I stay in the kitchen with you?"
"I'd rather you get some more sleep," he says, "but sure, you can keep me company while I cook breakfast." She smiles at him slightly as she gets out of bed. As they walk to the kitchen, she leans on him and clings to his shirt even though he knows she could easily walk on her own. This is just another indication to him about how broken she is now, but he believes….he knows, she will get better. After she sits in one of the kitchen chairs, Maya's reluctant to release her grip on his shirt. After gently taking her grip off him, he tells her: "I can't cook with you're holding onto me Maya." She nods her head again and releases him. Josh gets busy with breakfast. He puts several pieces of bacon in the skillet to fry and finishes mixing pancake batter. As he's doing this, he keeps an eye on Maya. She sits in silence, with her head down, not saying a word. The old Maya would have been sitting on the counter pestering him in fun. He smiles at that thought. He looks forward to being pestered by her again someday. He decides this is as good a time as any to tell her about Riley. "I called Riley, she's on her way over," he tells her.
Maya's head snaps up and she looks at him in shock. "Why did you do that Josh? I asked you not too. I don't want her to see me."
"Maya," he begins with a slight smile, "think about who we're talking about here. If she ever found out, and she would, that you were here with me and I didn't call her, she'd kill me."
Maya thinks about what he's just told her for a few seconds, gives him a slight smile, and says: "You've got a point." He returns her smile and sees another glimpse of the real Maya. "I said some awful things to her," she tells him. "I wouldn't blame her if she hated me now."
Josh walks over to her and puts a loving arm around her. "She could never hate you Maya; she loves you; always has; always will." She gives him a disbelieving look. "Wait till she gets here," he tells her, "you'll see." Her expression doesn't change, indicating she's not sure whether to believe him or not. He decides to leave it at that. "Want some coffee?" He asks.
"Yeah, sounds good," she answers.
He brings her a full mug. When she takes a sip, he asks: "Good?"
"Real good," she answers, "thanks." He nods his head to her and goes back to work on breakfast. After she takes a few more sips, she asks: "You wouldn't happen to have some whiskey to go in this would you?"
"Josh reels around in shock and says: "Maya Penelope! You can't be serious!"
But then he sees her give him a smirk and say: "Can't blame a girl for trying, can you?"
When he sees this, he throughs a towel at her and says: "Oh you." He actually hears her giggle at him before taking another sip of coffee. He turns back around to continue breakfast, but the real reason is to hide the tears forming in his eyes. They're not tears of sadness, but rather tears of happiness. "That's the real Maya," he tells himself and starts cooking pancakes.
Later Josh puts a plate of bacon on the table in front of Maya. "Smells really good," she tells him and she picks up a piece and takes a bite. "Tastes good too," she adds.
Josh smiles and says: "Good, pancakes coming right up."
"I haven't had bacon and pancakes is so long," she says casually as she takes another bite of bacon.
"Well, you can have all you want this morning. And if I run out, I'll go get more," he finishes with a smile. She actually smiles back at him. He can tell she's starting to feel better. Soon he finishes several pancakes and puts a stack on the table along with a plate for her to eat on. He gets butter, maple syrup, chocolate syrup, and sets them on the table also. "I still says that's a disgusting mixture to put on pancakes," he begins, "but I know you like it." He smiles at her when she looks at him.
"Thanks Boing," she says which gets Josh's attention. As he's looking at her in surprise, she asks: "You don't think I'd forget my favorite nickname for you do you?" She manages a slight smile as she says that.
After finding his voice after that surprise, he says: "No, it's just been a while since I've heard you call me that. And I miss it."
"Me too," she says softly and goes back to eating.
For the next few minutes, they eat, drink coffee, and rarely say anything. It's not an awkward silence thought, but rather a peaceful silence. Occasionally Maya looks at Josh only to see him already looking at her. Finally she says: "you don't have to keep staring at me Josh. I'm not going to run away."
He nods and says: "Sorry, I didn't mean to stare. And I don't think you're about to run off, but I'm glad you told me anyway." They give each other knowing smiles and continues with their breakfast.
Maya finishes three pancakes and asks for more, which Josh in happy to get for her. She's eating contently and had about half of the new stack eaten, when they hear something outside the apartment. Then there's a knock on the door and a familiar voice says: "It's me Uncle Josh."
When Maya hears that, she looks at Josh and he sees her expression change from content to worried. As he gets up to go to the door, he hugs her gently and says: "Don't worry Maya. As soon as you see her face, you'll see that she still loves you and doesn't hate you." She nods and gives him a nervous smile as he heads to the door. When he opens the apartment door, there stands his niece with her handbag over one arm and a suitcase in the other hand. "Come in Riley, let me get that suitcase for you. We were just having breakfast."
As she comes into the apartment, she says: "I hope you saved some for me; I'm starving."
"I have some left Riley," he begins, "but you better hurry; Maya's about to eat it all."
Riley giggles as she enters the room, then she sees Maya sitting at the table and stops. She's stunned by what she sees. Josh had prepared her as best he could on how Maya looked, but nothing could have prepared her fully for what she saw. It takes every ounce of will power she has not to start crying. There sits her best friend who she hasn't seen for almost a year, and she looks like she could be dying.
Maya looks at Riley with sad eyes and says weakly: "Hi Riles."
As soon as Riley hears that, she runs toward her best friend and shouts: "Peaches." Maya is overcome with joy. She halfway expected Riley to scream obscenities at her, then leave. That's what she did to Riley the last time she saw her. But now she sees that Josh was right. As Riley throws her arms around Maya, she feels Riley's warm embrace and it's an embrace only Riley can give her. Maya hugs her back, just happy to be with her best friend again. Up until an hour ago, she thought she'd probably never see her again. Yet here Riley was, squeezing the life out of her as she often did when she was so happy to see her. But instead of complaining about it like she usually did, she let Riley squeeze her all she wanted. If she couldn't breathe, then she'd just hold her breath. "I thought I might never see you again," Riley says with tears in her eyes as she continues to hold her. "I'm so happy you're safe with us now. And we're going to take care of you till you're well."
The two friends hold each other for the next few minutes. Josh has to wipe a few tears away as he witnesses the reunion that's been long overdue. The two finally release their tight grip on each other but stay close and hold each other's hands. "I'm so sorry Riley," Maya says, "I'm so ashamed of what I said to you and I'm so ashamed of what I've done."
"It's okay Maya," Riley tells her, "We're going to get you the help you need; you don't have to be ashamed of the drinking."
But instead of comforting her, Riley's words see to make things worse for Maya. He lower lip begins to quiver and she tries to hold back more tears. "No Riley, you don't understand," she finally says, "the drinking is not what I'm most ashamed of." When Riley looks at her with a puzzled look, she continues: "I'm most ashamed of what I was doing to keep drinking' what I was doing to live. Riley, I was selling my body…."
"You don't have to say it Maya," Riley interrupts her, "I already know." Maya looks at her in surprise, then Riley answers the question she knows Maya has on her mind: "Josh told me." She takes a quick look at Josh and then back to Riley, "Please don't be mad at him Maya," Riley implores her, "When he realized what was happening with you, he had to tell someone or it would have driven him crazy, so he told me. And I'm glad he did."
"Oh God Riley," Maya says, "I'm so ashamed of what I've done; of what I turned into. I'm a terrible person." She buries he face on Riley's shoulder and begins to cry once more. Riley holds her tight again and gently strokes her hair. She looks at Josh and he sees Riley's sad eyes and what this is doing to her, seeing Maya like this. He knows what that feels like, he felt those same things only a few short hours ago. He walks over to the two young women and puts his arms around both so they'll know they're not alone. Maya feels his presence and clings to his shirt again. Riley puts an arm around her favorite uncle as they comfort each other.
Later, after Maya has calmed down some, Riley puts her hands on Maya's shoulders to get her attention. When she doesn't look at her, Riley says: "Maya, look at me." She slowly raises her head and looks into the most loving eyes she's ever seen, the eyes of her best friend. "First of all, you are NOT a terrible person. And before you start to argue with me, listen. We've learned that addiction makes people do things they wouldn't normally do. It turns them into someone they're not. And that's what happened to you. I know that wasn't you that yelled and cursed at me." Maya looks at Riley and begins to tear up. "We've had fights before Maya, big fights," she continues, "and in all those fights, even when you were the maddest at me, you never once called me a name or cursed me, did you?" Maya slowly shakes her head, agreeing with Riley. "Of course you didn't. That never even crossed your mind, because people who love each other don't do those things, even when they're mad." Maya can't believe Riley is being so understanding about this; but then again, she is Riley. "And as far as what you did to make money," Riley continues, "that wasn't you either. It was a mistake, but it wasn't who Maya Hunter is, she's a good person." When Maya doesn't say anything, but keeps listening, Riley goes on. "I know that, Uncle Josh knows that, and so does everyone else, including your parents." Maya cringes at the mention of her parents. "Now," Riley continues, "no one else but Uncle Josh and I know about what you've been doing. And it'll stay that way unless you decide to tell someone else." Maya nods her head at this. "But's that a decision you'll make after you're well, okay?" Maya nods in agreement again. "Now it's time to put that behind you and move forward. It's time to start getting your life back. And that'll begin today when we take you to rehab."
"Okay," Maya says meekly, I want to get my old life back. I want to stop drinking."
"And we'll be there to help you all the way through," Josh tells her sweetly. Then he gives her a loving kiss on her head.
Maya looks at them both and says: "Thanks Josh; thanks Riley; I don't deserve friends like you."
Riley suddenly grabs Maya by her shoulders again. This startles Maya a little and she looks at Riley who tells her sternly: "Maya Penelope, don't you ever say that again! You're the best person I know and the best friend I've ever had. And I will not let you talk about yourself like that! Do you understand me?!"
Maya looks at Josh who just shrugs his shoulders and says: "I agree with her Maya."
She looks back at Riley now and actually gives her a little smile. "Okay Riley, I understand. I'm lucky to have you in my life, and Josh. So, turn off the jets, okay?"
Now Riley smiles back at her. "Okay," She says, "jets are turned off. But don't you ever forget what I just told you." Maya nods her head at her best friend and hugs her again. As they're sharing another moment Riley looks up at her uncle at says: "Come join us Uncle Josh," and holds out an arm for him, which prompts him to join the two in a group hug.
"I'm going to need a lot of these in the coming weeks," Maya says as she continues to hold her two best friends.
"And we'll be there with plenty," Riley tells her. "You'll probably get tired of all the hugs you'll get from us."
"I doubt that," Maya replies, "but you can keep trying to prove me wrong if you want." That gets a laugh from Riley and Josh. Then Josh says: "Challenge accepted." That gets another laugh, this time from Riley and Maya.
After a few more minutes of their hug, Riley separates herself and says: "Do you have any pancakes and bacon left? I ran out of my apartment so fast I didn't eat anything and I'm starving."
"Maya didn't quite eat everything," Josh says as he gives her a little nudge. "There's a little left, I think. Come on, I'll get you a plate full."
The three sit together at the table eating. Riley devours her pancakes and bacon and washes it down with coffee. Maya eats a couple more pieces of bacon. "So good," she says. Riley looks at Maya's empty plate, crinkles her nose and says: "Maya, syrup and chocolate on your pancakes still, that's disgusting." There's a little giggle in her voice though, letting her best friend know she's teasing her.
"Really Riles," Maya responds with a smile, "I've seen you put ketchup on mac 'n cheese. Not THAT's disgusting."
"They're both disgusting if you ask me," Josh chimes in.
"And you're the blandest eater I've ever seen Uncle Josh," Riley tells him. "At least we add flavor to our food."
"What she said," Maya adds. Both girls laugh then.
"Okay, I know when I'm out numbered, I'll shut up about food now," Josh says with a smile, while enjoying hearing the two friends talking on the same wavelength again.
After Riley finishes eating, she turns to Maya and says: "Maya, I talked mom and dad into not coming over here to see you. It took some doing, but I finally got them to agree. When you do see them, you'll need to make up for that."
"Okay," Maya says, "I will. Thank you."
"Now, about your mom and dad…." Riley begins.
"Oh God no!" Maya exclaims. "They're not on their way over here are they? I don't won't them to see me like this. Please call them and talk them out of it Riley, please," Maya begs.
"Relax Maya, they're not on their way here," Riley tells her. Maya breaths a sigh of relief. "They're out of town actually." Maya gives her a quizzical look. "They're in Maine," Riley continues. "Your dad had an assignment there and your mom went with him. It's sort of a mini-vacation for them." Maya nods her head in relief. "No one has let them know that you're here Maya. You need to call and tell them that yourself. They've worried themselves sick about you over the past several months."
"No, Riley, no, please," Maya pleads, "I can't face them now, even over the phone. After what I've said to them; after causing them so much worry; I'm just too ashamed."
Riley moves closer to her, holds her hands, and tells her in a firm but gentle voice: "Maya, like I told you before, there's nothing to be ashamed of. And they need to hear your voice. They need to hear from you that you're safe and with us." She can still see dread in her eyes, so she continues: "I've talked with them a lot since we lost touch with you Maya. They've never stopped loving you. All they want is for you to get the help you need; for you to be safe. You talking to them, telling them you're safe with Josh and me, will take all their worry away. And you want them to not worry about you, don't you?" Maya nods her head in agreement. "Good," Riley says. "I'll call them and tell them you're safe with us and then just talk to them Maya. That will make them so happy."
Maya looks at Riley then, and gives her a little smile. "Okay," she says, "I do want them not to worry about me anymore."
"Okay, great," Riley says and gives Maya a hug. "I'll get my phone. Is it okay if we talk to them here Uncle Josh?"
"Of course Riley," he answers her. "I'll clean off the table.
As Josh clears the table, Riley retrieves her phone and sits down next to Maya. "Okay Maya," she begins, "I'll call them and tell them you're with us and then you can talk." Maya nods her head in acknowledgement, but still is nervous about talking to her parents.
Riley opens her phone and selects Shawn's number from her contacts list and waits for him to answer. She doesn't have to wait long. "Hey Riley," Shawn answers, "this is a pleasant surprise. What's up?"
Riley sees Maya tense up when she hears her dad's voice. She gently squeezes her hand to comfort her before continuing. Josh sits down on the other side of Maya to comfort her as well. "Hey Uncle Shawn," Riley begins, "is Aunt Katy there with you."
"Right here next to me," he responds, "we're eating breakfast together."
"Good," Riley says. "Are you at a place where we can talk on speaker phone?" She asks.
"We are," he answers, "we're sitting on the porch of a little café and we're pretty much alone right now. Just a sec." Riley hears the phone being shifted around and then Shawn comes back on. "Okay, we're on speaker phone now."
"Hey Riley," she hears Katy say. "Is there something wrong?" Riley hears the worry in her voice.
"No Aunt Katy," she answers, "in fact it's just the opposite of wrong." She takes a deep breath before continuing. "I'm at Uncle Josh's, and Maya is with us; and she's safe."
From the other end she can hear both Katy and Shawn begin to cry. She knows there's plenty of pent-up worry their letting out now, so she gives them a few moments. When they calm down some, she goes on. "She's sitting right here next to me and she wants to talk to you." With that, she hands her phone to Maya. "It's okay Maya," she tells her best friend with a smile, "just talk to them so they can hear your voice."
Maya nods, then says to her parents after taking Riley's phone: "Hey mom; hey dad; I'm here with Riley and Josh and I'm okay. Please don't worry about me anymore."
As soon as Shawn and Katy hear Maya's voice, they start crying again. Maya hears this and starts crying too. Riley and Josh stay close to Maya. "Oh baby girl," Katy says through her tears, "it's so good to hear your voice and to know you're safe with Riley and Josh."
"We were so worried about you honey," Shawn says. "We were so afraid we might never get you back."
"I'm so sorry," Maya tells them while trying not to cry. "I'm so sorry for putting you through this and for saying the horrible things I said to you both. None of it was true. It was the booze in me. I was out of my head. You two have been the best parents anyone could ask for and then I do this to you. I'm so sorry," she repeats through her sobs.
After a few more minutes of the three of them crying, Shawn says: "It's okay honey. We're just happy you're safe." He hesitates a minute as he collects his thoughts, then continues: "We can get you some help Maya, if you're ready for it." They both stop crying now and listen for how Maya will react to that, not knowing what's happened since she's been with Riley and Josh.
"I'm ready dad," she says flatly. "Josh told me about the rehab center you've got lined up for me. They're taking me there today."
"Oh thank God!" Katy exclaims. "We've been hoping and praying for this day to come. It's a wonderful place Maya. You can get well there."
"That seems to be the general consensus here," Maya says with a little laugh which makes her parents feel better, hearing her laugh.
"We'll head home right now Maya," Shawn says. "I can let this assignment go and give it to someone else. That way, we can be there as soon as possible.
"Please don't dad," Maya pleads with him. "It's not that I don't want to see you; I miss you both so much. I just can't bear the thought of you seeing me like this. Please wait till I'm better….please."
There's a brief moment of silence as Katy and Shawn look at each other, trying to decide what they should say to her. Finally Katy nods to Shawn as a nonverbal agreement passes between them. "Okay, we'll wait. But know this honey," Shawn begins, "we're coming to see you as soon as they tell us it's okay and you have no say-so in that, understand?"
"I understand dad," she says relieved, "thank you."
"We love you baby girl," Katy tells her. And Maya can feel their love in their voices and it's makes her happy. "Let us talk to Riley again, okay?"
"Okay mom," she returns, "I love you both and I'll see you soon." She turns to Riley, hands her phone back to her, and says: "They want to talk to you again." Riley takes her phone and smiles at Maya. Maya turns to Josh then and holds onto him again while softly sobbing.
Riley walks away from Maya so she can talk to Maya's parents in private. She figures they might have some questions. "How is she Riley, really?" Shawn asks.
Just as Josh hesitated before when she asked him that question, she does the same and decides to answer the same. "She's alive Uncle Shawn. She's lost a lot of weight, she's weak and scared, but she's alive." She hears Katy gasp over the phone. "She's already getting better," Riley continues, "she's lost so much weight because she's probably been doing more drinking than eating." She hears them sob again. "But she ate a real good breakfast this morning and of course hasn't had a drop of alcohol since Uncle Josh picked her up last night. And the other good news is: she told Uncle Josh last night she needed help. That's why Josh and I will take her to rehab today. Mom's getting in touch with them this morning and she'll let us know when they'll be ready for her. When they are, Josh and I will take her there immediately."
"Thank you Riley," Shawn tells her. "I'm glad you're there for her, but how did she end up at Josh's."
"That so-called friend of hers, Max, abandoned her last night at a bar. She had no place to go and no money, so she called Uncle Josh and asked him to come and pick her up, which he did of course."
"I wonder why she didn't call you Riley?" Katy asks.
"I wondered the same thing too at first, Aunt Katy. But the more I thought about it, the more I understood. It's hard to explain, but Uncle Josh and Maya have always had a special bond. He's always cared about her. No one loves her more than I do and I know she feels the same about me, but there's just something about Uncle Josh that Maya sees. I think it's probably his strength. Not his physical strength, but his spiritual or emotional strength. She trusts me completely, but trusts Uncle Josh more. If you remember the stories she confessed to you when she was a freshman in college, when she realized she'd gotten herself into trouble at a party with mostly juniors and seniors, Uncle Josh was the one she called to get her out of trouble. She knew he wouldn't judge her or be upset with her, but would protect her. As you know, he had to do that several times until she got her act together. She knew I would never judge her, but she felt safer with Uncle Josh. Now, she was ashamed for me and all the rest of us to see her, but felt less so with Uncle Josh. The only reason I'm here is because Uncle Josh knew I'd kill him if he hadn't told me." She hears soft laughter on the other end. "Like I said, it's hard to explain, but the bottom line is, she called him; he got her; she confessed to him she has a problem; and she asked him for help. If he hadn't been here, maybe she would've called me or you, but who knows. But she looked to him to keep her safe and he is."
"We think we know what you mean Riley" Shawn says. "Katy and I have talked about their relationship a lot and concluded that no matter where their relationship goes, and you know what we mean by that, we know she'll always be safe with him. But I still have my 'protective father speech' ready in case I ever need it."
Riley can't help but giggle a little, along with Katy, when Shawn tells her that. "Well," Riley begins, "that's for future consideration; we have more important things to think about right now; but for the record Uncle Shawn, I hope you have a need to make that little speech to Uncle Josh some day."
"Thank you Riley," Katy speaks up, "we do too."
It warms Riley's heart to hear them say that, but first things first. "Look Uncle Shawn, I know you'd like to come home now, but do consider staying and finishing your assignment and mini-vacation. By the time you get here, Maya will already be enrolled in the rehab center and you know they told us no one outside of the center will be allowed to talk to her for the first two weeks, so you might as well stay. You know Uncle Josh and I will take care of her."
There are a few seconds of silence on the other end and then she hears a short laugh/grunt from Shawn who says: "Darn it Riley, you inherited you mom's sense of practicality." Riley has to giggle at that. "Okay, we'll stay. But like I told Maya, we're going to see her as soon as we're allowed."
"As it should be Uncle Shawn," Riley says, "you and Aunt Katy will be the first to see her as soon as she's ready." Riley hears hers and Josh's phones beep. "Okay, Uncle Josh and I just got a text and it's probably from mom with info for getting Maya checked into the center, so I need to go."
"Okay," Katy says, "and thank you Riley for loving our baby girl so much and being such a good friend."
"Aww Aunt Katy, "Riley says, "Maya's really easy to love. She's the best person I know."
"You're so sweet Riley," Katy says, "and please give Josh our love and thanks."
"I will Aunt Katy. And don't worry about Maya, we've got this." They hang up and Riley walks over to where Maya and Josh area at the table. Maya is still clinging to Josh.
"What did mom and dad want?" Maya asks.
"They just wanted to know if we're taking you to the rehab facility we picked out for you," Riley answers deciding not to tell Maya about the whole conversation. Maya nods her head accepting what Riley tells her. "Was that a text from mom?" She asks Josh.
"It was," he answers. "They're all ready for Maya. We just need to get her there."
"Great," Riley says. "I brought cloths and makeup for you to put on Maya. Ready to get started?"
"I'm ready Riley, but I'm scared," she says. "I'm starting to feel the effects of alcohol withdrawal. I know what it feels like. There were a few times that I didn't have the money to buy anything, and those few times were awful till I got a drink."
Josh sees Maya's scared eyes and says reassuringly: "But you were alone then Maya. You're not anymore. You've got us; your mom and dad; Cory and Topanga; and all your other friends. And the people at the center will be right there to help you too. You'll never be alone in this fight. We've all got you."
"Okay," Maya says then swallows hard, "I guess we need to get started then."
"Good," Riley says with a smile. "Uncle Josh, can we use your bedroom for Maya to get ready?"
"Of course Riley," Josh answers, "just let me get some clothes out so I can get dressed."
Josh hurries to his room and gets some clothes to wear for the day. He goes into the bathroom, cleans up a little, brushes his teeth, and gets dressed. When he's through, he goes into the living room to wait for the two young women. About twenty minutes later, they come out. Maya is dressed in some nice cloths that Riley picked out for her. They hang loosely on her just like her other clothes did, but she still looks nice he thinks. And the makeup her and Riley put on her, did make her look better, more alive. "Wow, you look gorgeous Maya," Josh says to her.
"Stop it Boing," she says with a grin, "I know I look terrible. And no amount of clothes and makeup can help that."
"Maya," Josh begins, "you may not look as good as you will when you're well, but just seeing you looking close to yourself and with a little grin on your face, makes you look gorgeous to me."
Maya actually blushes a little at Josh's compliment. "Aww Boing," she says as she gives him a little nudge while smiling.
"Maya!" Riley says excitedly, "you used your favorite nickname for Uncle Josh….twice!"
"She used it once before you got here too," Josh informs her.
"She did?!" Riley asks excitedly. She hugs Maya and continues: "That's the Maya I know and love." Once again Riley has Maya in one of her constrictor-like hugs. And once again Maya doesn't mind and just enjoys the unbridled happiness of her best friend at it washes over her.
"Ready to go?" Josh asks.
"Yeah, I'm ready," Maya answers with a big sigh. "Let's do this."
They head out to Josh's car for the trip to the rehab center. Riley and Josh both stay close to her for comfort. They can tell that even though she's committed to entering rehab, she's very nervous about what to expect.
When they get to his car, he opens the back door for them to get in. "Both of you sit in the back and I'll be your chauffeur," he says with a grin; which they do. Josh gets in and pulls out onto the street and heads to the rehab center. On the way, he checks out the two occasionally in his rearview mirror. What her sees makes him smile. There sits his niece, being the wonderful person she is, gently talking to her best friend; holding her hand; and giving her words of encouragement. He makes a mental note to himself to tell Riley how proud he is of her.
After about a thirty-minute drive, Josh turns onto the driveway of the center, which looks more like an estate than anything else. There's greenery and shrubs everywhere which gives the impression that this is a nice place to visit. "This place is beautiful," Maya says, "I was expecting something that looks like a big-city hospital I guess."
"We had the same reaction when we first saw it," Josh says, "and wait till you see the entire facility, you'll love it. We've taken a tour of the whole place." Maya just nods her head.
As they near the main building, a sign appears:
Welcome to
The Zachariah Rehabilitation
and Recovery Center
"Where New Lives Are Built"
For some reason the sign startles Maya and Riley feels Maya's hand tighten around hers as she's holding it. What's wrong Maya?" Riley asks.
"I don't know Riles," Maya says. "I guess it's just the reality of it all. It's almost like I've woken up from a dream and have to face reality now."
Riley squeezes Maya's hand back and tells her: "It's going to be fine; you'll see." Maya gives Riley a smile. She's so appreciative of her best friend's support and the support of her best friend's uncle. It they weren't with her, she's not sure if she'd go in by herself.
Josh parks his car near the main building and the three of them get out. They begin walking toward the front door and as they do, Riley holds one of Maya's hands and Josh holds the other. Maya can feel the love in this simple act and it gives her hope, something she's had almost none of lately.
As they enter the front door, Maya is stunned by what she sees. The lobby seems more like the lobby of a luxury hotel than a hospital. There's several comfortable looking chairs and sofas for people to sit, magazines to read, several televisions to watch, and what appears of be a small snack bar. "This place is incredible," Maya says with wonder in her voice.
"I know," Josh replies, "it's meant to be welcoming and relaxing to everyone, both residents and visitors."
As they walk towards what seems to be a patient check-in station, an older, distinguished looking lady wearing a doctor's white smock approaches. "Riley, Josh," she begins, "It's good to see you again."
"It's good to see you again to, Doctor Anderson," they both reply.
Then Doctor Anderson turns her attention to the young woman standing between them who is holding her head down, not looking at anyone. "And this must be Maya. We're so glad you're here," she says in a pleasant voice.
"Yes mam," Maya replies respectively still not looking up. She saw the nametag on the doctor's smock. It read: "Dr. Beverly Anderson, Manager and Head Doctor, The Zachariah Rehabilitation and Recovery Center." Maya didn't feel worthy enough to look this lady in the eye. And the doctor notices this.
"Maya," she begins, "the first thing you need to remember in not to be ashamed to be here. We know that it took courage to admit you had a problem and ask for help. Never lower your eyes to anyone. No one in here will judge you or look down on you. Many of our staff were here as patients first, and afterward, decided to work here." Maya begins to look up at her now. And Doctor Anderson gives her a warm smile. "And everyone who works here," she continues, "from me to our janitorial staff and all in between are dedicated to one thing: helping you get well. And that's what we're going to do."
Seeing the sincerity on her face and hearing it in her voice, Maya keeps her head up and says: "Thank you so much. I'm scared, but ready to do whatever it takes to make me better."
"Good, now let's get you checked in," Doctor Anderson says as she leads them toward the check-in station. When they get there, she says to Maya: "We won't need much from you Maya. Mrs. Matthews has given us almost everything we need. That's one efficient and determined lady. When she sees Maya smile, she asks: "I take it you know of Mrs. Matthews traits?"
Maya looks at her, still smiling, and answers: "Yes mam. I'm sure you know she's Riley's mom so I've been around her since I was a little girl. When she sets her mind to something, she lets nothing get in her way. She's pretty amazing."
"Yes she is," Doctor Anderson answers. "Now let's finish up here." For the next several minutes, they ask Maya questions to finish up her registration. When they are through, Doctor Anderson says: "Good, that's done. Now let's head over to that room over there. I want you to meet someone."
"Okay," Maya answers her. "Can Riley and Josh come too?" She's doesn't want to be left alone.
"Of course," the doctor replies. Maya nods and the three of them follow the doctor through a door. When they go inside the very comfortable looking room, there is a young lady waiting there, sitting patiently in a chair. When they enter, she stands up to meet them. She's probably in her middle to late thirties, about Riley's height and build, has shoulder-length black hair, and piercing black eyes that seem to sparkle. When she approaches them, Doctor Anderson says: "Maya this is Christina. Christina, this is Maya."
"Hello Maya," Christina says in a pleasant voice and with a bright smile. "I'll be working with you during your stay with us. I'll be kind of a counselor and guide for you." She puts out her hand for Maya to shake.
Maya shakes her hand and says: "Nice to meet you Christina." Maya is apprehensive about meeting her. "She really seems to have her act together," Maya thinks. "She probably has a doctor's degree in psychology or something."
"Please call me Chrissy, Maya," she tells her pleasantly. Maya nods at her indicating she understands.
"Okay," Doctor Anderson says, "you're in good hands now Maya, so I'll get back to my other work. But you'll see me around a lot while you're here and feel free to ask me any question you might have. But Christina will be able to answers most if not all of any of your questions."
"Thank you," Maya says meekly as Doctor Anderson leaves the room.
Chrissy looks at Maya and sees the scared look in her eyes, and understands. "Maya," she begins, "I know what you're going through right now. You're afraid because you don't know what's going to happen to you now." Maya looks at her with a questioning eye as Chrissy continues: "And you're probably feeling the effects of withdrawal right not now and it's scary because you've felt them before and that scares you, doesn't it?"
Maya, as well as Riley and Josh, look at her in amazement. "And now you're wondering how I could possibly know that, right?" She says with a grin. The three friends nod their heads. She goes on: "Just a few short years ago Maya, I was standing right where you are now. I was scared and wondering how I was going to survive this because I was strung out. You see, my drug of choice was cocaine. And it almost killed me."
"That's incredible," Maya says, "you look so healthy and alive."
"Why thank you Maya," Chrissy says, "I appreciate the nice complement."
"No," Maya says, "I mean I would have never thought you were ever an addict."
'Why?" Chrissy asks her, "Because I'm not emaciated and feeble?"
"Yeah, something like that," Maya answers.
"Because of the recovery program here Maya," Chrissy tells her, "I got my life and my health back. And you will to before you leave us."
"Do you really think so?" Maya asks hopefully.
"Yes, I do Maya," says Chrissy. "We have a very high success rate here and I'm determined to help you get your life back. When I first came here, I was weak, skinny from lack of eating, and afraid I was going to die. But with help of the wonderful people who work here, I made a full recovery and have been clean and sober for 10 years now. I was so grateful for the help I received, I came back to work here. I've helped many just like you recover and I know you can find your way back." Chrissy can see Maya's face light up slightly from what she's told her. She goes on. "I won't sugarcoat it Maya, you've got some challenges ahead of you. But from what I've been told about you, you can make a full recovery."
"Why do you think that?" Maya asks.
"Because when I entered here," she answers, "I was alone. Both of my parents were addicts and were zero help to me as were most of my family. I was staying with an uncle who finally couldn't stand having me around, so he just dropped me off here and told them to send him the bill and that he'd pay to have me buried if I didn't make it."
"Oh my God!" Riley exclaims. "That was so cold. You had no one?"
"No Riley, I didn't," Chrissy answered. Then she turned to Maya and said: "and I recovered. And with the support you have Maya, I know you can get your life back."
Maya nods her head; understanding what she's been told. But Chrissy can still see doubt in Maya's eyes. "I've studied your file a lot Maya, "she continues, "and I've talked to the entire Maya Committee." Maya is surprised to hear her refer to Riley's name for her family and friends. Chrissy goes on: "One thing they've all told me Maya is how strong you are. Mrs. Matthews referred to you as a 'fierce amazon warrior.' And that's saying a lot coming from that amazing lady."
Maya can't help but smile at that; and Chrissy can see some confidence appear on Maya's face. "I love that lady," Maya tells her, "she's been like a second mom to me."
"I know," Chrissy says, "your mom and dad have nothing but phrase for her and for her husband. And that's the other reason I know you'll recover Maya; you have all this love and support. I've never helped anyone who's had more. I don't think any of us have."
"I'm very lucky," Maya says softly as she looks at Riley and then Josh.
"Chief among all that love and support has been these two with you," Chrissy says; indicating Riley and Josh. "I've grown to admire them both very much. They've propped each other up through this whole ordeal and I know they're two of your closest friends and will be with you through everything. So yes, you're very lucky." After a short pause, Chrissy says: "Okay, time to get our day started. Maya, come with me. I'll start by showing you where you'll be staying while you're with us and what generally we'll be doing."
"Okay," Maya says with a slight smile.
"Riley, Josh," Chrissy begins, "thanks for bringing Maya here. We'll take good care of her, I promise." She turns to Maya and says: "why don't you take a few minutes and tell them goodbye before they leave."
"Aren't Riley and Josh coming with us?" She asks worriedly. "They aren't leaving me alone are they?"
Chrissy tells her: "Maya, for your first two weeks with us, you can't see or talk to anyone from the outside. We'll keep you way too busy for that anyway."
"Please Chrissy, please," Maya pleads, "let them stay; at least for the rest of the day. I'm lost without them. I don't want to be alone."
Before anyone can say anything, Riley takes Maya's hand in hers and says: "It's okay Maya. You won't be alone. Chrissy will be with you all the time and there's so many wonderful people here to help you."
Then Josh tells her: "We can't help you anymore Maya, we've done all we can. Don't worry though. They know what they're doing here. We wouldn't have brought you here it we didn't believe that. And as soon as it's okay to come visit, we'll be right here; along with your mom & dad and Cory & Topanga. I promise."
Maya looks into Josh's loving eyes and draws strength from them. "Okay Boing, if you say so." This causes light laughter and a sense of relief from Riley and Josh.
Riley sees confusion on Chrissy's face and says: "That's Maya's nickname for uncle Josh. No one else calls him that but her."
"I see," Chrissy says as a new realization forms in her head about Maya and Josh's relationship, "pretty cute Maya."
Maya grins at Chrissy and says: "I'll explain it later."
"I look forward to that," Chrissy says. After a brief pause, she tells Maya: "Now take a few minutes to tell them goodbye Maya."
Maya nods her head and turns to Riley. She throws her arms around Riley's neck and hugs her tight. "Thank you Riley, "she begins, "thank you for always being there for me. Thank you for never giving up on me. I love you Riley." She pulls back from Riley now to looks her in the eye.
"I love you too, Maya," Riley says, "you're going to do great here. You're going to get well."
"I know," she answers, "I believe that now." She turns to Josh next, puts her arms around his neck, and hugs him tight also. Josh puts his arms around her waist and hugs her back. "Thank you Josh," she begins, "thank you for coming to get me last night. Thank you for being my guardian angel. Thank you for doing everything you could to get me away from what I was doing, even though I tried my best to push you away." Maya's voice cracks and a tear runs down her check. "I love you Josh." As soon as she says that, Riley and Chrissy's eyes nearly pop out of their heads in surprise. Maya is shocked that she said that too and releases her hug on his and tries to clarify, not wanting him to think she meant the wrong thing. "I didn't mean love you, love you Josh, I meant…"
Before she can finish Josh interrupters her and says: "I know what you meant Maya." She can see the calm look on his face and realizes he knew exactly what she meant. "I love you too." That produces the biggest smile anyone has seen on Maya in a long time. He gives her one more little hug, then lets her go.
"I'm going to hold you two to that promise of visits," she says with a laugh.
"No need to threaten," Josh says, going along with her little joke. Then he indicates Chrissy and says: "Time for you to get started now Maya. And Riley and I will see you in about two weeks."
She smiles at them both one more time and then lets Chrissy lead her to and through another door in the room. As soon as the door shuts behind her and they're gone, Riley begins to softly sob. Josh turns to her and asks: "Riley, you okay?"
"Yes, I'm fine uncle Josh, it's just…." She hesitates, trying to find the right words. But Josh understands.
"I know Riley, I know," he tells her. The two then share an understanding hug for a few minutes. Finally Josh says: "We might as well go Riley, we've done everything we can do. She's in really good hands now.
"I know," she says drying her eyes, "we've done what we set out to do, and I'm happy about that. Josh smiles as her and the two walk out of the room and back into the lobby. As soon as they do, they see Cory and Topanga standing near the door talking to Doctor Anderson.
"Mom, Dad," Riley exclaims. "What are you doing here?" She runs to her parents and gives them a hug.
"Yes, my brother, what are you doing here?" Josh also asks.
"Well, my brother," Cory begins, "we wanted to see Maya. But to honor her wishes, as Riley made it clear she didn't was to see us now, we watched on a monitor from Doctor Anderson's office while you brought her in."
"I don't know how you and Josh did it Riley," Topanga says, "it took courage from both of you to not break down while you were around her. Maya looked terrible. That poor, sweet girl, looked emaciated and depressed. But I could see that you kept everything positive and got her here. I'm proud of you both."
"Thanks mom," Riley begins, "it was hard, really hard, but…." Riley's lip begins to quiver and finally she can't hold her feelings back. She begins to cry and falls into her parents' arms.
"It's going to be okay honey," Topanga tells her. "May is going to be fine."
"Your mothers right Riley," Doctor Anderson tells her, "if she's half the young woman I'm told she is; a 'fierce amazon warrior,' I believe Topanga calls her, I have every confidence that she'll make it through our treatment and make herself well."
Riley looks at Doctor Anderson, wipes the tears from her eyes, and manages a little smile. "I know Doctor Anderson," Riley says. "I believe that too. It's just that…." Riley searches for the right words and tries not to start crying again.
Then Josh finishes for her: "She wishes Maya didn't have to go through this. She wishes that none of this ever happened to her, but it did. I feel the same." Tears appear in Josh's eyes now, "We all do," he finishes.
Topanga can see the pain on her daughter's face and her brother-in-law's. She not only wishes Maya didn't have to go through this, but wishes Riley and Josh didn't have to feel the pain they're feeling now. She has guilty feelings about that. "I wish I'd seen this coming," she begins. "I must have missed something. I just wasn't watching her like I should. If I had, none of this would have happened and Maya wouldn't have gotten into this mess she's in."
"I feel the same way honey," Cory tells her sympathetically. "I was her teacher for six years; and beyond actually, if you count all the time she spent at our apartment while she was in college. I knew her so well. I should have seen this coming."
"No dad," Riley says, "I'm her best friend. No one knows her better than me. I should have seen that something was wrong. This is all my fault."
"You can't take all the blame Riley," Josh says. "I should have protected her. I'm the oldest. I should have…."
"Stop it! All of you," Doctor Anderson says suddenly. "This was and is Maya's problem and not yours. She's an adult and responsible for her own actions. She has no one to blame but herself. You can't blame yourselves." She sees the four of them look at her in shock. "Look," she continues; softening her voice. "It's natural for her family and friends to blame themselves when something like this happens to a loved one. And I'm thinking Maya's parents feel the same way." They all nod their heads in agreement. "But you can't let what happened to her bring you down too." After giving them a moment to let that sink in, she continues. "I want the four of you and Maya's parents, the whole Maya Committee, to come in and talk to one of our resident psychologists. It's part of the service we provide with Maya's treatment. When she recovers, and she will," she looks at each of them sternly while saying that, "you all can't be hung up on your own feelings of guilt. You can't help Maya that way." After giving them another moment, she goes on. "I want the six of you to make an appointment for the first of next week. Don't put it off. If I see you haven't done that next week, I will harass each of you with calls, emails, and texts until you get in here. Got it!" When she sees them nod in agreement, she says: "Good, Maya is lucky to have each of you and her wonderful parents in her life and she'll need you in her recovery, so you need to be ready to help." She reaches into her pocket and pulls out a business card." This is who I want you to contact," she says. "No go home; get some rest; and I'll see you next week." With that, Doctor Anderson leaves them.
"Well, I guess we have our orders," Riley says with a laugh.
In the parking lot, Topanga asks Riley and Josh: "Why don't you two come on over to our place now? I'll fix us some lunch and we can call Shawn and Katy and give them a report on Maya."
"Sounds good mom," Riley says.
"Yeah, we'll be right over Topanga," Josh says.
The four get in their cars and head to Cory and Topanga's apartment.