Disclaimer : I still don't own Zoey101, Another World , or Couples , just playing in that world .

' Oh my God, this place is gorgeous ! I can't believe you grew up here, Zoey ' exclaimed Lola as she and the others took in the beautiful sights of the Bayou Tech, the 125 mile waterway that meandered through St. Martinsville ,Louisiana and other historical towns .

As they passed through the quaint down town of St. Martinville soaking up in the historic buildings, the old statuary that spoke of times of the past , while the courtly streets were shaded by centuries old mossy oak trees speaking of a gentler era and a more relaxing pace than what the car full of new graduated friends were used to.

' It's home ,' spoke up Zoey, fondly, as she drove past Mr. Main's mercantile , ' though we spend more time in Boston than we do here . Our house is a few more blocks yet but there isn't enough room for all of you to stay there which is why we're heading to my Grandparents house . It's much bigger and Grandma Rachel can't wait to meet ya'll '

Chase lifted a brow couldn't help but noticing that now that they were actually down South, Zoey's accent was much more pronounced . It reminded him of their first year at PCA, oddly enough .

' Ya'll, Zo ? '

Zoey slid a sidelined glance at him .' Oh shut up, Chase ,you know, that's how I talk .'

' I know , I couldn't resist though ,' replied Chase , as they passed a stately gazebo surrounded by bright pink flowers ,' Wonder how my folks are doing with your parents ? '

Ross and Pamela were riding in the same vehicle with Mike , Amanda, and Dustin and they would be staying in the Brooks guest room while the rest of the gang would be hanging out in Zoey's grandparents house for the duration until the wedding .

His parents couldn't really afford to take the whole summer off of work to help with the wedding preparations but they were staying a week just to get things on a start before flying back to Baltimore .

.

' Our parents get along fine, Chase ,' chided Zoey, as she turned the car down a rambling dirt road that had them passing more of the local scenery as colorful birds waded among the cattails , a alligator lifted its head then ambled back into the murky water that was the bayou .

' I know '

' That was a freakin gator! You never mentioned anything about us having to be on the look out for hungry gators , Zo ' this came from a frantic Michael from the backseat ,' I mean, sure the swamps look cool and all but I draw the line out of being made into gator food . I watch those Gator shows in the swamps …..'

Quinn patted Michael's leg , sympathetically .' Relax, Michael, I think the odds of that actually happening are oh maybe 20% unless you intend to go searching for them .'

Beside his girlfriend, Logan threw his head back and chuckled .' Don't be such a girl, Barrett. No gator is gonna want your chewy hide in the first place '

Michael flipped him the bird and Lola put her hands between them to separate them before they started another lame argument . .

' Can you two stop ! Can you both act like the adults your supposed to be '

'I was just making an observation '

Logan turned his nose up at his pal. ' You were being a chicken '

Zoey sighed, heavily .' Can you two please not act like jerks in front of my entire family while you are visiting ? Folks are gonna be too polite to make you stop and I really don't want reprimanded by my Grandma either .'

Michael and Logan instantly turned contrite .' Sorry, Zo, we'll be cool .'

' Thanks ' replied Zoey as she turned the car into a long driveway shaded by two rows of glorious hanging oak trees , moss dripping down overhead from them , as an old fashioned black wrought iron gates opened to welcome them as the house came into view ,' well, here we are . Welcome to Belvedere "

' Wow '

' It's beautiful '

The house was a large rambling plantation home , the architecture blended Greek revival style with a ornate veranda overlooking the seven bedroom home giving a breathtaking view of the Bayou surrounding them on all sides . Inviting cherry wood rockers sat side by side on the stairs inviting them in and Quinn almost expected to see a beautiful woman adorned in silks sewing and drinking a mint julep .It was if they literally stepped back into a gentler time and place and it was breathtaking .

' Brooks, this is a damn plantation ! I thought you said you didn't have money ' Quinn's romantic musings were interrupted by her boyfriends quick remark .

Zoey put the car in park then turned her head to look at him .' We don't , Logan , our house is modest compared to Belvedere . It's been in our family forever , Grandpa Mac bought it years ago and had it renovated as a project with my grandmother .'

Michael put a hand on the car door and let out a dramatic sigh. ' My lil Lisa would just fall in love with this place '

Lisa had returned back to Carmel with her parents for a week then she would be joining them down here for the rest of the summer . Michael hadn't been happy about it but the Perkins had family in from all over the country and Lisa wanted to spend time with them .

He understood the importance of family but he already missed her something fierce .

Lola punched him in the arm. ' Oh be quiet , already, Michael, I miss Vince too but do you hear me whining about it ? '

Quinn groaned as she placed her hand into Logan's as he helped her from the car . '

'Don't start , you two . Lola, Vince could hardly pass up all those graduation dinner parties with his fathers business partners . I'm sure he would rather be here with you instead of with them but the graduation gifts from them will surely help his future expenses .Besides he and Lisa should both arrive down here about the same time .'

' Thanks so much, Quinn ' scoffed Lola but brightened up as she tugged on her purple tank and wished she had listened to Zoey and worn something less casual .She felt out of place in her stylish summer outfit though Quinn wasn't anymore dressed up than she was in a denim mini skirt and a shiny fuchsia blouse with cap sleeves . .

Zoey's yellow sundress seemed very Southern and right in comparison to her trendy outfit . Boo !.

The large ornate front door opened and an older woman stepped out , she had dark blonde hair swept back from her face , and was dressed in a elegant cream suit , warmth written across her face as she caught sight of her granddaughter .

' Zoey ! '

' Grandma!'

Zoey was engulfed in a warm hug .' It's so wonderful to see you ! The house looks fantastic ! Where is Grandpa Mac ? Oh my gosh, I want you to meet Chase …' She caught sight of Chase who looked as if he wanted to bolt ,' Chase, c'mon here , please .'

Rachel laughed , the sound tinkling like bells .' Mac had some last minute business in New Iberia but he'll be back in a while . Now let me see this ring my dear and meet the young man I've heard so very much about for so long now …'

Zoey laughed herself and held up her finger so her grandmother could examine the diamond sparkles..

' Isn't it pretty ? Chase knows exactly what I like '

' Quite lovely indeed ,' Rachel smiled at a nervous Chase who had joined Zoey on the front steps ,' Chase , welcome to the family .'

'

' Hi , um, I mean, hello, Ma'm ,' stumbled Chase , extending a hand ,' it's so good to meet you finally too. '

Rachel simply pulled him into a hug .' Chase, you can breath, honestly , I don't bite . Mac and I are just overjoyed that you and our Zoey have decided to marry so soon and we want to help in any way that we can .'

Chase found himself at ease .' Thanks . Your house is just pretty awesome . I can see now why Zo has her heart set on us getting married here .'

' Family tradition ,' smiled Rachel , ' but I hope it doesn't trouble your family . Zoey tells me all of your family is back in Baltimore and well, we're a large bunch so I don't want any of your family to fret over hotel costs . We can find places for all of your relatives .'

Chase thought of his father and knew he would be relieved .' Thanks and you might want to tell that to my parents too . ' He looked around for the other car but didn't spot it in the large driveway ,' Where are they ? '

' Oh not to worry, dear, ' reassured Rachel , matter of fact ,' Amanda called and they are at home getting settled in after the trip . Dustin went in town to explore and your folks will be over for supper in the evening with the whole lot of us .'

' Cool . I mean, that is good '

' Grandma , I want you to meet the rest of our friends, ' introduced Zoey as the group was clustered together on the steps in awe of the vast plantation ,' there is Lola , Michael, and Quinn and Logan are the couple joined at the hip .'

Everyone greeted her with enthusiasm .They couldn't believe they were actually going to be vacationing at a honest to God real life plantation house - it was equally as impressive as Logan's families Santa Barbara mansion .

Lola smoothed down the front of her tank top and took another step .' Your home is gorgeous ! It's like something out of Gone with the Wind .'

' It is pretty cool ' agreed Michael , rubbing his chin ,' thanks again for having us all '

' Is this part of the original plantation , Mrs. Cory ? Zoey mentioned that you and your husband renovated it ,' inquired a curious Quinn, eager to learn more about the history of the plantation ,' I understand there are still areas in and around the South that is considered plantation country and wondered if Belvedere was considered a part of that ? '

Rachel smiled , brightly .' You must be Quinn,' answered Rachel, delighted at the genuine intrest the young woman was showing ,' Zoey mentioned how inquisitive you are . To answer your question, yes , it's original structure was still in good condition when Mac and I purchased the house about ten years ago or so . It was built about 1837 and a lot of the mouldings , the wallpaper , and even several of the fireplaces are original .and still intact '

' I cannot wait to see the entire house '

' Quinn, babe, it's getting kind of hot out here ,' replied Logan , affectionately ,' maybe we could get settled in and tour the house before you interrogate the woman '

Quinn shot him a warning look but he just blew her a kiss .' Don't be rude, Logan ,' the scientist turned back to Mrs. Cory, ' I apologize for my boyfriend 's rudeness and lack of tact .'

Chase rolled his eyes ." You guys , come on '

Zoey shot Logan a evil eye .' Reese '

' No need for reprimanding the young man , it's been quite a drive from California ,' Rachel ushered for them to follow her inside the house ,' I am sure you all want to get settled into your rooms and relax a bit before supper . Come along now and I will show you to your rooms ..'

She ushered them inside and into the spacious foyer where soothing pale green walls seem to blend in perfectly , hardwood floors polished and gleamed as did the antique table and the gilded mirror on the wall dazzled and a curving cherry staircase invited them to explore the mysterious rooms that resided on the second floor as well as the galleries .

' Well, I'll be ..'

Lola openly gaped at the lovely crystal chandelier above them .' I feel as if I should be donning my day dress and paying you a call, Mrs. Cory '

' That is a delightful thought , Lola ,' replied a good natured Rachel ,amused ,' and if we ever decided to open this house to public tours, you could have fun with those acting skills of yours . However, we do have a lovely theatre in town you should visit while you are staying with us .'

Chase instantly turned to his future grandmother . ' I want to apologize for my Mom ahead of time , Mrs. Cory , because when she gets a load of this place, I am positive that she will be very embarrassing .'

' I'm sure there will be no need for apologies ,Chase ,' replied Rachel , gesturing to the double doors ,' the dining room and the sitting rooms are through here while the kitchen and the ballroom are on the other side of the house . '

Quinn sighed and grabbed on to Logan's arm with a schoolgirl giggle .' A ballroom , Logan ! '

Logan smiled indulgently at his ever the romantic girlfriend .' These kind of places all had ballrooms back in the old time days , babe ."

' Grandma , can we show them to their rooms now ? I can give them the tour later ' interrupted Zoey , reaching for the key around her neck and missing it . She had taken it off after graduation no longer needing the room key and felt bereft without it and tugged at her diamond ring in its place ,' I sort of wanted to talk to you before Mom and Dad and Chase's parents come over tonight .'

' Of course, dear ,' answered Rachel , as she led the group upstairs to the large bedrooms ,' I wasn t sure of the arrangements but Chase, you are in the blue room to the left of the bathroom . Michael , you and Logan are in the gold room and I put Lola and Quinn in the mauve room . When Vince and Lisa arrive , I have them in adjoining rooms near the ladies parlor unless you young people wish to switch it up amongst yourself , that will do .'

Chase reached for Zoey's hand .' Your not staying here with us ? '

Zoey pulled him aside to speak privately .' I might stay off and on a few nights but Chase , my parents would flip ! Even if we are getting married and I wouldn't want to embarrass myself or you in front of the whole family ..'

' Right ,' Chase kissed her cheek ,' is it a southern thing or a family thing ? I mean, I don't want that either but it isn't the 1800's anymore and couples stay together all of the time .'

He jerked his head towards Logan and Quinn who seemed to be talking heatedly between themselves . He didn't need super powers to guess what they were arguing about the sleeping arrangements .

' Bet ya those two want to share a room '

' Well, they aren't and wont ,' decided a nervous Zoey ,' it isn't how it's done '

Chase lifted his duffel bag and pointed to his bedroom .' I'm just going to check out my room now and you handle them, Zo .'

Michael and Lola had already wandered into investigate the rooms they would be staying in leaving Quinn and Logan to their bickering in the long hallway while Rachel fussed with the calla lilies in the Waterford vase on the long antique hall table .

' We are guests in this home, sweetie ,' Quinn was saying ,' Mrs. Cory wasn't suggesting we shack up together if we don't care for the arrangements she has made for us .'

' We're adults , we're together ,' pointed out Logan, trying to persuade her with his charm ,' it's not a big deal, Quinn . Michael can just bunk with Chase or stay in one of those rooms that are supposed to be for Vince or Lisa .'

Zoey cut in before Quinn lost her temper . ' Will you two stop it ! Geesh, you guys don't need to share a dang room either ! Have some good manners , Logan , for once ! Grandma already assigned you and Quinn rooms and you'll be just dandy '

Logan narrowed a brow at the blonde who had taken on an air about her .' Brooks, chill ! Your Grandma said we could switch if we wanted to and we do so relax , will you '

Zoey jabbed a finger into his chest .' Don't be a cad down here , Reese . I'm not sharing a bedroom with my fiancée and you aren't with Quinn. Got it ? '

Logan opened his mouth, caught Quinn's eye, then promptly realized it was better to just drop the whole thing before Zoey got anymore uptight over it .

' Fine '

Quinn moved around her enraged friend and pressed her lips against Logan's in a kiss meant to soothe him . He slid her from the calm into the heat until Zoey grew annoyed with their display of love and yanked her former roommate away from Logan .

' Enough , my Grandma is watching you two ! '

Quinn slid out of Logan's arms with a wave .' I'll talk to you soon, sweetie ' She ambled into the bedroom that she would be sharing with Lola and Logan sighed heading into the room he and Michael were rooming in together .

Rachel sent the young people a knowing look and tucked her granddaughters hand into the crook of her arm , patting her hand .

' Zoey, dear, I may be older but your Grandfather and I certainly wouldn't be offended or mortified if your friends wished to share a room . It wouldn't be the most scandalous thing to happen in the halls of Belvedere '

' You don't know Quinn and Logan,' chuckled Zoey with affection ,' besides it will be good for them . I thought maybe you and I could talk a bit about the wedding before Mom got here …..'

' How about we take a stroll through the gardens and chat . Is Chase joining us ? '

' Not right now ,' hesitated Zoey as they went down the backstairs , crossed the veranda and soon followed the gardens where a profusion of roses bloomed, camellias and pink azaleas lined the herringboned pattern brick walkway bringing its beauty together .The gardens were in full bloom and every bit as lovely as she had recalled them to be .

Zoey paused to inhale the fragrant scent of a rose in full bloom .' It's even more beautiful than the last summer I came back home to visit .'

' The family and I are just so overjoyed that you want to be married here this summer ,' continued Rachel, marveling at how much Zoey had grown and matured into this amazing young woman ,' I believe your cousins Ashton and Lewis might be joining us for supper as well this evening .'

' Awesome '

Rachel sensed that something was troubling her granddaughter but simply waited rather than press her about the matter .. Zoey reminded her so much of Amanda at this age .

.

She didn't have to wait long .

' Will you help me with Mom ? I know she thinks Chase and I are rushing into this wedding , the marriage , and I really don't want her to steam roll over everything or exclude Pamela in the planning . She isn't exactly happy with me since I don't want to wear her dress and I had to refuse Chase's Mom's offer of hers as well because I am designing my own ….'

' Amanda merely wants you and Chase to have a special , memorable wedding, I am sure , Zoey ,' muttered Rachel, understanding where her daughter was coming from and yet leery about taking sides between Amanda and her own grandchild ,' how about if I be the voice of reason if need be ? I honestly don't believe everything is as dire as you think it might become with your Mama .'

Zoey made a clucking sound with her tongue .' Chase and I just want a simple wedding '

Rachel gave her a squeeze .' Then that is what you and Chase shall have, dear , and meanwhile I think you should chill as your friend said ' She managed a wry smile ,' That Logan has a sharp tongue bet he could charm many a young lady with it .'

' He used to until he fell head over brains for Quinn ,' shot Zoey , making a face and making her grandmother chuckle ,' I love my friends but I just don't want anything weird to happen down here for my wedding . I love Lola to death but please Grandma , do not encourage her to become a Southern belle or I swear the girl will .'

' Honestly Zoey this would be so terrible ?"

' Yes ,' assured Zoey, touching the petal on the pale pink flower with her finger and wondering about flowers for her own bouquet,' she once pretended to have a horrible British accent for two days just to date an un-dateable British boy .'

' Would that be her boyfriend ? '

' Oh no, Lola dumped Simon after a week of boredom . She and Vince have been steady since he came back to PCA our junior year ' finished off Zoey , leaning her head against her grandmothers shoulder ,' I also just don't want my friends to do anything that would embarrass you and Grandpa either . You live here , they don't .'

' Enough with the fretting and worrying, young lady, ' scolded Rachel , leading her up the path back towards the kitchen ,' you only just got here and your nearly panicking over silly what if and might's so stop . How about we get us some sweet tea , sit a spell, and you can enlighten me all about your Chase before the others join us .'

' You will not believe how Chase proposed to me ' started Zoey as they moved back towards the veranda ,' I didn't have a clue . Chase was so adorable ! '

' Well, of course , he was ! I wouldn't repeat that to your young man, dear, ' cautioned Rachel, ever so wisely ,' you'll wound that fragile male ego '

***********************PCA*********************************************

The tester bed was draped in pink silks and fluffy duvets , the chiffarobe , and dresser were antique , a marble tricket dish held rose petals , and beautiful glass bottles filled with lotions and perfumes added to the ladies suite . Fresh flowers sprouted from the crystal cut vase on the dresser as Lola breathed in the deep fragrance of the roses as she whirled around the bedroom causing Quinn to laugh at her antics .

.

' Okay , this is way better than Logan's mansion ,' exclaimed the actress as she lifted the silver handled brush to her dark hair ,' I feel as if we are in a whole new world . It's so incredible ! I can't believe Zoey didn't tell us all about this place .'

Quinn finished zipping herself into the red sundress and adjusted the modest neckline staring critically at her appearance in the oversized gilded mirror hanging on the wall .

' I suppose with graduation and her engagement to Chase , Zoey must have felt a bit overwhelmed ,' rationalized Quinn, pushing her brown curls off of her shoulders ,' the history and the stories this place must have to tell are just fascinating to me .'

Lola opened up her purse to find the right tube of lip-gloss , leaned her head to consider .

' I wonder if it has ghosts . All old plantations should have ghosts '

Michael rapped lightly on the door .' You girls decent now ? '

' C'mon in '

Michael, Chase, and Logan all looking quite handsome in suits minus the ties joined them in the room. Michael let out a low whistle and tapped his hand on the dresser .

' Fancy too ,' said Michael, tucking his hands in the pockets of his slacks ,' our rooms are guy like but its classy like too . Only thing missing are the cigars and brandy '

' Maybe if it were the 1800's still, Michael, ' reminded Chase , evenly,' I highly doubt Zoey's Grandparents are going to willingly supply us with those '

Logan drew Quinn up into a kiss .' You are totally all wrapped up in this romantic old time stuff. Aren't you, Quinn ? '

Quinn blushed but couldn't deny it .' I cannot help it if I have always felt as if this particular time period so full of history, turmoil, and romance is well, the most romantic of time periods ! ' She smoothed down the lapels of his open collar, her tone soft and dreamy ,' Can you imagine if we'd be here during that time, Logan ? You would have surely been a successful young planters son perhaps and I could have been a visiting Northerner , we could have met by chance , something unexpected and fallen in love '

She sighed on the fantasy .' Our love would have been disapproved by all sides but we wouldn't have cared and done anything to be together .'

Logan pulled her close , exchanged knowing smiles with Chase and Michael, and dropped a kiss on his girlfriends nose .

' If you say so , baby '

Lola just chuckled ,' And I'm supposed to be the romantic one '

Chase picked up a old music box , lifted the lid, and a sad , old waltz began to play .

' Zoey's acting strange . I think she must be nervous ' stated Chase , thinking that the lilting song about after a Ball was incredibly sad ,' do you girls think maybe she is , you know, having thoughts about us getting married ? '

Michael laid a firm hand on his shoulder .' Chase , that girl loves you . If she were having second and third thoughts about dumping you, she would have did it before we left California '

Chase puzzled over this and his own nervousness . ' Why do I even ask you ? You're an idiot '

Michael grinned widely .' Aw, man, I love you too, buddy . Get a grip '

' You should have just eloped ,' offered up Logan, trying to be helpful in his own way ,' I can still get the plane , we can fly off to Vegas and you and Zoey can get hitched '

Quinn whacked him in the stomach with her elbow .' They don't want to elope '

Logan just spread his own palms and looked innocently up at the own woman he loved .

' Do you want to elope, sweetheart ? '

' No . Be quiet '

Lola sat down on the edge of the bed and gazed up at her friend .' Chase , I don't think Zoey's strangeness has anything to do with you. I think maybe she's worried about her families expectations of her and the wedding …'

If anyone understand the expectations of family, it was Lola, who had her own set of them with her mother and younger sister, at times .

' Lola is right ' agreed Quinn, firmly .

' We could still get married on the beach ' replied Chase , moving to the window ,' that might be better . Now I'm started to get scared at what kind of wedding we're supposed to pull off here at this place .'

' Just nod and agree to whatever Zoey wants and you'll survive ' suggested Logan as his own girlfriend gaped at him ,' what, Quinn ? That is what my Dad always says and he's been married 7 times so the man ought to know .'

' I like your father, Logan, but don't be stupid '

' I'm just giving my pal advice '

' You really shouldn't , you jerk ' volunteered Lola, making a face at Logan .,' a big, splashy wedding is one thing but this is one of the most important events in Chase and Zoey's life together .'

Michael placed a hand on the wall and felt a slight chill go through his body then searched his friends face to see if they felt it too . Must be an old draft .

Old house had them all of the time and damn, them all for bringing up ghosts .

They had Charles Galloway and that had been more than enough ghosts for him !

' I wonder if they had an slave quarters still standing ' mused Michael, changing the subject ,' or if there were any free slaves in this area back in the day, you know .'

' You should ask Mrs. Cory , Michael ,' suggested Quinn,' I bet she would be able to tell you . I am sure during the turn of the century there were freed servants , Creoles and Cajuns all down here . Hmm, I wonder what Zoey's family is considered ? '

Zoey poked her head in the door .' Mom's side of the family is old Creole actually and the Cory's were very modern free thinkers down here even back in the 1800's according to family history . '

' You never mentioned that before , Zoey ' brought up Michael , hands on his hips .

' Never came up when we were hanging up before , Michael ,' brought up Zoey ,' if your so curious, you need to talk to my Grandpa , he'll be glad to talk your ear off all night on everything you ever wanted to know about this side of the family .'

Chase searched Zoey's face for signs of anxiety but found them calm .' You alright ? '

' I'm good , I swear it, Chase ,' reassured Zoey, leaning in to his solidness that always made her feel safe and loved ,' just preparing myself for the battle with our Moms about the wedding . '

' I don't think my Mom is gonna be pushy or anything ' said Chase , knowing that his mother thought spending an ridiculous amount of money on a wedding was absurd when they had college and a house to think about made more sense to her .

Pamela Matthews was a sensible woman ,after all .

' Our wedding will be the talk of the town down here , expect my well meaning Mom to turn into a nutcase ' said Zoey ,' Grandma is going to do what she can to help us with her but I wanted you to be prepared .'

' You positive you want to get married here , Zo ? ' questioned a concerned Chase, slipping an arm around her waist to hold her ,' if its gonna be that much hassle , we can still go out to PCA , I bet Dean Rivers would let us marry by the flagpole pretty cheap or the beach is right across the road or Logan offered up his Dads plane so Vegas ? '

Zoey felt a laugh bubble up in her as he had expected and let it out along with the anxiety that had working on her as they turned into Belvedere earlier . Leave it to her sweet Chase , he always knew how to make her feel better .

' No, I'm sure I want us to get married here ' Zoey pressed her lips to his in an easy kiss ,' under an arbor draped in morning glory out back near the bayou '

Chase kissed her lovingly .' That is very specific '

' I've known it forever , Chase ' said Zoey, playing with his tie ,' you clean up nicely . You trying to impress the rest of the family ? '

Chase shrugged as Zoey fastened the wisdor knot . ' We figured we ought to dress up nicely for supper . We didn't figure it was the type of meal where us wearing shorts and tee shirts were acceptable down here or can we ? '

' No, your all dressed perfectly ,' assured Zoey , who had changed into a short navy blue dress ,' might us well come on downstairs and we can wander around the parlor until my cousins get here .'

' Cousins ? ' asked Michael , fiddling with his own tie . He hated these darned things !

' Ashton is our age and Lewis just recently turned , um, 22 , I think ,' explained Zoey, as they followed her back down the winding staircase ,' I haven't seen them in ages . '

She led them into a large parlor with sweeping high ceilings , pale wallpaper embossed with cabbage roses decorated the walls along with paintings of old Cory ancestors filled the space, heavy settees and ornate chairs of cherry wood and mauve velvet offered those a place to sit and rest and built in bookcases danced along side the walls .

A etched crystal pitcher and glasses sat on a glass tray on a nearby marble table offering up a libation of fresh lemonade if they were so inclined to .

'I am officially in love with this life ! ' Lola helped herself to a glass of lemonade ,' why I do declare I shall while away the days relaxing and sunning myself down here instead of dreary old New York '

' You'd get bored fast, Lola ,' said Zoey, knowing how flighty her friend could get ,' unless your going to drive down to the Quarter to find some fun . It's a bit more on the quiet side down here than in New Orleans .'

' Oh, pooh, just let me dream , Zo ,' pouted Lola , touching the silver candlesticks with approval ,' it's my vacation too . It would have been way more exciting to be an actress down here back in the old days … can't you just see me ? '

' I most certainly can and a enchantingly beautiful sight for the eyes you are , Miss ? ' spoke up a young man with golden blonde hair, powder blue eyes, and a face that could have been out of a book . He wore the sleek suit of a grey Armani and looked much older than his 22 years ,' Lewis Cory at your service and you are , lovely ? '

Lola could only grin an felt color rush into her cheeks.' Lola Martinez '

Lewis bowed low and pressed a kiss to her hand .' A pleasure indeed , Miss. Martinez '

Lola felt her heart beating loudly echoing in her own ears and couldn't help the feelings of giddiness that swept over her at Zoey's hot cousins flirting with her .

Oh wow !

' It's Lola '

' She has a boyfriend ' reminded Quinn, dryly .

Michael , ever his lady friends protector , stepped forward and crossed his arms in front of his chest and sent fixed looks towards Chase and Logan to help him out here .

They had to have Vince's back since he wasn't down here yet and Lola was being all weird and girly at this dudes old Southern charm .

' Michael Barrett , at your service , Lewis ,' rambled an amiable Michael ,' I know Lola here is a pretty girl but your laying it on a little thick . Thought it'd be the cool thing to do to save you some trouble by letting you know her boyfriend is gonna be along shortly .'

Lola shot him a dirty look .' Michael, stop it "

' Your looking out for the lovely Lola ' Lewis sized up Michael and thought he could probably take the Yankee in the fist fight if it came down to the matter .

' She is my friend so yeah , I am '

Quinn let go of Lola to tug on her best friends arm .' Lola, stop staring ! '

Zoey might have found the whole scene incredibly funny if Lola hadn't been eating up all of Lewis's charm with a spoon and her cousin had a bit of a reputation as somewhat of a cad and a player down here . Lola would be a new challenge for him and she couldn't allow that to happen or it could get awful when Vince arrived down here .

' Lewis , down boy ,' Zoey stepped forward to get between him and her friends ,' don't be oozing that charm on my friend here or her boyfriend is liable to kick your sorry ass back to the bayou for you hitting on Lola here .'

Lewis turned, caught Zoey's annoyed look, and swept her up in a hug .' You always were the bossy one , Zoey Brooks ! Have you turned into a California Yankee and forgotten your roots , cousin ? '

' Put me down , Lewis ! '

' When Grandmother told me of your upcoming nuptials I had to get down here and see for myself . Nice to see you brought along your own troops as well ' teased Lewis , sitting on the chair and helping himself to a drink ,' aren't you going to introduce me to your friends ? '

' Guys , this is my not so charming cousin , Lewis .'

Zoey quickly made introductions and found herself flanking to Chase's side for reasons unfathomable to herself . She always considered herself an independent woman and certainly not a clinging one at that but somehow she felt as if her older cousin was judging her decisions . It unsettled her more than she liked .

' Well, you know, I'm as Yankee as I can probably be ,' Chase tried to rid the room of the tension pervading it with his own humor ,' but I'm a honest guy and I love Zoey with all of my heart .'

' Glad to know, Chase , though you arent exactly who I expected cousin Zoey to be marrying ,' brought up Lewis, winking slyly at Lola ,' Ashton mentioned a James Garrett whom seemed about as perfect a man as we could imagine from Zo's letters.'

Color drained from Chase's face at the mention of Zoey's ex-boyfriend and floundered for words . He thought he had already wrestled with the whole perfect James issue but clearly having his perfectness thrown in his face by Zoey's cousin showed him he didn't .

Logan was mindful of his friends feelings though and couldn't just sit still on this thing . He didn't know what the dude was trying to prove but already he didn't like him .

' Old news , Lewis ,' pointed out Logan, lifting his chin up in a challenge ,' Garrett never stood a snowball chance in hell with Zoey because of Chase . The best man won and all .'

Michael joined Logan in agreement .' Chase and Zoey, here , soul mates and all that .'

Chase sent them grateful smiles and willed himself to relax . ' James wasn't that perfect . We shouldn't even be talking about him .'

Lewis seemed to take the hint .' Sorry if I stepped on some toes , Chase , not my intention . Zoey's been so wrapped up in her life out in California , it feels as if we need to catch up.'

' I told you and Ashton about the break up ' warned Zoey, lips tight .

' You did ,' Ashton poked her head inside the parlor ,' Ignore the jerk , he is being a insensitive brat ! I cannot believe you are finally back home, Zoey Brooks ! It's been forever and ever !'

' Ashton ! '

The cousins hugged and her friends couldn't help but notice the family resemblance between Zoey and her cousin . Both had the same coloring and the honey blonde hair though while Zo wore her hair straight, Ashton's was a mass of waves , but both shared the same kind eyes . Unlike Lewis's sharpness , there seemed to be genuine warmth there .

' It's high time you got your California self back home, girlie ! I would kill for that tan and oh my God, show me the ring ' gushed an excited Ashton , happily ,' which one of these handsome fellas is your Chase ? '

Chase raised a hand in a half hearted wave.' That's me '

Ashton looked him up and down then pulled him into a hug .' You are just the cutest ever its no wonder Zoey loves you ! Welcome to the family, Chase "

' Uh, hi and thanks ' mumbled Chase , looking from the three cousins to his friends .

' Keep your paws off my man, Ashton ! ' teased Zoey, hugging her again ,' look at you . You look amazing ! ' She wiggled her finger so the diamond winked ,' I know what your thinking but Chase got me the most perfect ring ever ! Unlike you, chere , I don't need a huge diamond '

Ashtons blue eyes twinkled .' It's lovely '

' I would want a big, huge , sparkly diamond if Vince were to get me jewelry ' added Lola

Quinn cleared her throat .' I hate to interrupt the family reunion but Zoey, maybe you could introduce all of us and we can let you get back to the visiting with your family .'

' Sorry , Quinn , I get carried away ,' apologized Zoey ,' of course , I'll introduce you all . to my favorite cousin . '

Introductions were once again made and the gang soon found themselves taking in Zoey in her element with her cousins . It was clear that she and Ashton were as close as sisters as they caught each other up on their lives while Lewis was clearly the one they had to watch out for with his cunningness . He was charming and witty with Lola and even Quinn but Logan was careful to keep Quinn's hand securely in his , not that he was worried about some slick southern man . He trusted Quinn but Lola was eating up the dudes charm as if she didn't have a boyfriend and this wasn't right .

Chase and Zoey seemed relaxed and comfortable as they chatted with Ashton regaling her with stories from PCA and their journey to be together with Michael chiming in his cents while Lewis kept conversation with Lola, Quinn, and Logan .

' Zoey and Ashton can be a handful together, those girls ,' replied Lewis, trying to sound earnest ,' I have always taken it upon myself to look after them . Zoey's never exactly been the romantic so imagine my surprise when I heard she was getting married . '

' Well, it's been a long time coming ' says Quinn, lightly . She looked up lovingly at Logan, her smile dreamy ,' rest assured they love each other very much .'

' That eases my mind '

' Does it ? Cause it was a crappy thing to do bringing up James in front of Chase and Zoey ? That's really low and I probably know more about the situation than you do ' contributed Logan, wanting to clear the air between them .

' An error on my judgment, I suppose , Logan . Judging by Zoey's letters I naturally assumed this perfect James had some power over my cousin to sweep her off her feet ' answered Lewis , meeting the cocky Reese man's arrogant gaze with his own ,' we had thought she had friend zoned Chase forever . Easy enough assumption but then as you pointed out, I didn't have all of the facts .'

' Stop being a pig, Logan ,' Lola shot him a filthy look then beamed at Lewis ,' lets not talk about James . Old news of the past . Now tell us more about yourself, Lewis '

' How about we take a stroll along the gardens and we can talk ? ' suggested Lewis , not about to turn down an invitation to get to know the lovely Lola .

' Yay ' Lola stood, her purple bangle dangling on her arm,' I would love to .'

Quinn fixed her with a knowing look and yanked her in a corner .' Lola, what are you doing ? Have you forgotten about your boyfriend all of the sudden ? Vince isn't going to be happy to find out his girlfriend is cavorting with another guy while he is away '

Lola folded her arm across her chest .' Of course not , Quinn ! I love Vince but he isn't here and a little harmless flirting never hurt anyone . I am not cavorting either ! '

Quinn smoothed her lips together , worriedly .' Be careful '

Lola tossed her hair off of her shoulders and shrugged at her best friends silliness . Sometimes Quinn could be too serious for her own good and it wasn't as if a simple walk was a promise or cheating or anything .

' There is nothing to be careful about ' called out Lola , slipping her hand into the ever gallant crook of Lewis's arm as they strolled out of the parlor together .

Quinn heaved a fretful sigh as Logan placed a protective arm across her shoulder .

' Vince isn't going to be happy when he finds out about Lola and Zoey's cousin '

Quinn bit the inside of her cheek .' There really isn't anything to tell, Logan , so please don't start trouble . Lola does love Vince and she wouldn't deliberately do anything to hurt him …please promise me you wont text or call Vince .'

Logan hesitated ,' Vince is one of my best friends, Quinn. He has a right to know that his girlfriend is flirting with another dude while he is away .'

' Do you want Lola to butt into our business , Logan Reese ? ' challenged Quinn, evenly .

' No. Dammit, Quinn , you cant be pissed at me for looking out for my friend ' argued Logan , in low undertones ,' he would do the same for me .'

' I'm not mad ,' reassured Quinn, ' I love that your such a good friend, you know that . I just hope that Lola knows what she is doing is all .'

Michael who had been listening to the happenings in the room as well turned to Zoey as well . They all knew how Lola could be but she hadn't been caught up and swept away since Vince had returned and stolen her heart and this made them all pause and worry .

' Do I need to go be a third wheel ? Is Lola safe with Lewis out there ? '

' I think Lola can handle herself with my cousin ,' managed Zoey with a laugh,' honestly , guys , it's alright . Lewis isn't going to poach from Vince . He is harmless .'

Chase frowned , instantly going into big brother mode where Lola was concerned .

' No offense, Zo, but he didn't seem harmless '

' It's not as if Lewis has taken Lola to the cotton docks to make out ,' chuckled Zoey at their confused expressions on their faces ,' flirting is part of his charm . It's fine .'

Somehow the use of harmless and fine didn't do much to convince them all of it . Whatever happened or didn't happen it looked as if they were in for an exciting summer at Belvedere if the first day was a good indication of things yet to come .

' .

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