Author's Note: I want to thank Micheala and Superfan for their great review and since they summited a great review, I already sent them this chapter. If you want me to sent you chapter 18, before I post it, just summit a great review and a working email address.

Inside Pacey's apartment, Joey was absolutely changed. Her raised spirits were justified. She was holding her son for the first time in eight months, but Joshua was not struggling or crying. He was smiling immensely. It was as if he knew that she was his mother. This entire year was hectic for Joey, but for first time in eight months, Joey was actually happy.

Pacey was watching Joey holding their son. He had nothing to say because there were no words that could describe the moment. However, the silence had made his day. This made him feel that he had a reason to stay.

After a few moments of silence, Joey looked up at Pacey and then she said, "Pacey, thank you so much."

"For what?" Pacey said mystified.

"I know that you kept Joshua not because you wanted to or just to rebel against everyone. You kept our son, because you knew it was the right thing to do… I really admire you for that." Joey started to get tearful.

Pacey grabbed her hand to hold it. He did not say anything because being there for Joey was enough. More importantly, this was the first time that all three of them were together.

"You know," Joey spoke, "I really wish that I don't have to go back to reality. Because the moment I go back, I won't be able to face any of it… The moment my dad finds out about this, he'll go crazy. He'll probably send me across the country… My sister will just put me in more therapy sessions… Our so-call friends would most likely turn this into a soap opera event… I really wish all of that could just go away... But enough with the tearfulness. I just want this moment to stay positive."

"You don't have to go back." Pacey explained.

"What are you talking about?" Joey wondered.

"You know you're welcome here." He equivocated.

"I can't just stay here for the night and not go home. My family would be worried. Knowing my sister, she would call the police. And when I do come home the next morning, my dad would give me a lecture." Joey rambled.

"What I meant was… You are welcome to stay here; you are welcome to move in." Pacey recommended.

"Move in?" Joey repeated.

"You don't have to go back Joey. Not if you don't want to. You can move in and stay with me and Josh." Pacey elaborated. Before Joey could speak, Pacey leaned in and kissed Joey passionately. Joey (who was still holding Josh) enjoyed the zealous kiss.

This was it. Joey had an obligation to make her own choice and no one else could make it for her. After the past, Joey knew that she could not ignore the problem. She would have to make a choice and wait for the aftermath.

"Joey, I'll be right back. I just have to go to the kitchen and get Joshua a bottle." Pacey said.

"Okay…" Joey whispered.

"Be back in a second." Pacey got up and took the bottle. Pacey did not have to go get a bottle. All he was doing was trying to give Joey some time alone to think. He wanted her to have a moment alone to digest what he just told her.

About fifteen minutes later, Pacey came back hoping that Joey had come to a reasonable decision. Nonetheless, Pacey was appalled when he came into the living room to find that the only living soul there was Joshua. She left Joshua alone in the living room and she left a note. Pacey grabbed the note and had no idea what to expect.

Dear Pacey,

You have no idea how much you made my dreams come true by keeping Joshua. But, to be completely honest, even though it was my dream, I'm not sure if I was ready for it to come true. You will probably be a great father…. However, I'm not sure if I'll be a good mother. I made this decision not because I'm afraid. I made this decision for Joshua. I think it would be for the best that I leave.

I know that this might not be exactly what you want to hear, but just remember that because it sounds like good idea, and looks like a good idea, does not mean it will be a good idea. It might seem like it is a good idea that I'll be a mother, but I know it is not.

Love,

Joey.