Disclaimer : I still don't own anything Zoey101 .

' Mmm , I've missed this ,' murmured Quinn, nestling herself on top of Logan's chest as she nipped at his chin ,' being together , waking up next to you in the morning '

Logan ran a hand softly down the line of her back as his lips crushed hers in a breathless kiss , she responded eagerly to each touch , each caress, each kiss , as they tumbled together as the sunlight streamed into the room through the gauzy curtains .

It was sheer bliss for the couple .

' Me too, Quinn ,' Logan drew her closer, taking the time to cover her shoulders with the sheet knowing that would be the first place that would be cold ,' God, I love you '

He brushed back her brown hair , tucking a loose curl behind her ear as he rested his cheek against hers , happily . Logan lifted her hand dropping a kiss on her ring .

' I love you too '

She stole a sidelong glance at the man beside her , his copper curls were a bit shorter this year , and his skin wasn't as tanned as it normally had been since he had been attending film school in Boston .Logan had grumbled a bit at first even contemplated in those spray tans but Quinn had convinced him that they were harmful and that she didn't want her boyfriend to look as ghastly orange as a basketball .

Luckily for her , Logan still obsessed over his good looks so he complied with her .

It wasn't as if he had a chance to surf daily these days .

' You and the girls heading into town for the whole dress shopping ? ' asked Logan, stealing a glance at the clock on the nightstand . It was only seven in the morning so they had plenty of time before they were needed downstairs for breakfast ,' Dad put in a call to Oliver so he's going to come out here with tuxedoes for me and the guys to try on . I was thinking I'd go classic like I wore to prom …..'

Quinn rested her head against his chest .' I think you'll look very handsome ' She traced a pattern across his chest with her finger ,' Logan, it means a lot to me that you want to be involved in every aspect of planning our wedding so I was thinking about our flowers '

A gleam appeared in his eyes as Logan dropped a kiss on her nose .' We have to have those tulips because you love those flowers . If the florist in Santa Barbara cant get the ones you want shipped in, I bet Dad and Julia would be able to help '

' I thought maybe French orange tulips would be pretty with some of those white ranunculus flowers ,' considered Quinn ,' They'd be really lovely tied with a ribbon for the bouquets …maybe some baby breath for the greenery '

' Roses , babe ,' added Logan , leaning over the bed to hand Quinn his red robe which he swiped off the floor ,' I always get you roses to mark how much you mean to me ..remember when I brought you a rose for the first time ? '

Her lips curved ,' How could I ever forget , Logan Reese ? You brought me a red rose , we were slow dancing in a janitors closet , and I was going stir crazy because we hadn't actually had a real date in the entire month of our secret dating '

Logan slid into his shorts .' So your good with us having roses with whatever flower arrangements that you want ? '

' I don't know if roses and tulips will work together but I'll just ask the florist to put something together for me to see ,' Quinn pushed up the sleeves of his shirt ,' it will be original .'

She grinned at him .' Chase didn't care one whit about the flowers when he and Zo got married '

' Yeah but Chase got burned years ago on trying to bring Zoey flowers so he was cool with whatever flowers she wanted for their wedding ,' pointed out a knowing Logan ,' Totally understandable for them . We've come a long way together , Quinn, and I don't just want to blindly agree to whatever you want .'

Quinn straightened her glasses as she swung her legs over the bed as she crooked a finger at him . There was nothing more attractive to her than Logan being sweet . He liked to be all macho and tough when it was brought up but it turned her all melty .

' I don't want you to blindly agree with me ,' Quinn wrapped her arms around his neck ,' we've managed just fine with our little spats and disagreements , I certainly don't want you to start trying to placate me now . Can we just agree to both compromise on our wedding ? No going over the top, sweetie '

' I can do that ,' assured Logan, matter of fact ,' can you handle a fancy cocktail engagement party at the club ? I know your not crazy about the idea …but its really something I would like and I promise to keep it down to like a couple hundred '

Quinn paled , slightly .' The idea of that many people I don't know makes me a little queasy , Logan, but obviously this means a lot to you so we can do that . Just promise me that you wont be making deals and no press ….'

' I'll speak with Dad , babe , and he can take care of the press ' stated Logan , swinging her up in his arms ,' You'll get no wheeling and dealing from me now how about we continue this conversation in the shower ?'

Quinn giggled ,' You are incorrigible '

Logan flashed her a sexy grin .' Damn straight I am '

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' Those two are loud , my gosh ! House this huge , you would think we wouldn't be able to hear Quinn and Logan through the dang walls '

' Michael '

' Next time we stay here , I am requesting a room away from those two '

Lisa patted the side of the bed even as she rolled her eyes , exasperated .' Michael , come on back to bed ! It's still early and we don't have to be downstairs for breakfast until nine which means there are other things we could be doing '

Michael pulled on his shorts and leaned across the bed to kiss her , heartily .' Honey , now is the perfect time to take advantage of that hot tub before the others remember it is here '

Lisa grabbed his arm as she sat on her knees then began nibbling on his ear .' Or we could stay here where we are all alone and make up for all of the lost time we missed because of our course load , your job, and my extra dance practices , Michael '

Grinning , Michael moved in for a searing kiss , sliding his arm around her waist as he yanked her to him . Lisa sighed , her hands kneading at his powerful muscles , even as she changed the angle of their kiss , as need and heat consumed them .

He trailed kisses down her shoulder , moving the thin straps of her nightgown and felt her body quiver at his touch . Though they had been together frequently it just seemed as if it had been way too long and he couldn't resist when Lisa was being this seductive .

She splayed her hands across his back as he lowered her back to the bed .' Love me , Michael '

' I do love you ' expressed Michael , nudging the thin fabric of her bodice aside to reach the soft skin there ,' think I like this idea much better '

' Mhm '

Michael and Lisa were engrossed with one another that they didn't hear the door open until a bright eyed Nicole burst into their room, talking a mile a minute .' Good morning ! it's a beautiful morning and I just wanted to see if you wanted to join me in the hot tub before breakfast and …oh my God '

She stopped mid sentence as Nicole took in their state of undress and the daggers that Lisa was clearly shooting her way then died of embarrassment as Michael covered Lisa's chest with her gown . He flushed from mortification even though he thanked the Heavens he hadn't peeled off his shorts yet .

' Get out ! '

' Uh , no , Nicole ,' managed Michael , pasting a smile on his face ,' not right now . Didn't know you were into the just barging in thing ..maybe knock next time '

Lisa tried to control her temper before she tossed Nicole out a window .' Leave '

Nicole had the grace to avert her eyes .' Oh my God, I am so sorry ! I never meant to...I guess I didn't think ! I just didn't want to laze by myself and thought Michael would ..I am really , really very sorry .'

She pointed to the door .' I'm going to go now '

Flushed with embarrassment , Nicole stepped back out in the hallway as she shut the door firmly behind her , heaving a desperate sigh . That hadn't been her smoothest move ever and she certainly hadn't expected to find Michael and Lisa sharing a room together .

They hadn't last summer during their stay down south for Chase and Zoey's wedding so it hadn't occurred to her that it would be any different . Thank Goodness Michael was easy going though Lisa didn't seem to thrilled with her . Well, she would just have to apologize and smooth things over between them .

Back in the bedroom, Lisa pushed Michael aside as she covered herself with the sheet, the mood broken now along with her cheerfulness. She had been willing to suck it up and admit that she was the tiniest bit jealous and over-reacting over the flirtatious Nicole but that little interruption sent her rationalization straight out of the window . Flirty Nicole knew exactly what she was doing and no one could tell her otherwise .

' Lisa, honey , now we should continue what we started before Nicole so rudely interrupted us ' Michael reached for his girlfriend but Lisa shook her head, vigorously , as she climbed out of bed, sheet and all, giving him a perturbed look .

' Forget about sex now, Michael, because it's not happening ' Lisa began picking up her bra and panties from the floor ,' but you feel free to go join your good friend Nicole in that hot tub '

Baffled , Michael scratched his chin .' Honey, what's the matter ? I know it wasn't our finest moment but it ought to teach Nicole to learn to knock next time …she always was easily excited '

Lisa's hands went to her hips .' You never bothered to mention to me in all of the numerous stories involving Nicole that she liked to barge right into your room ? Should I just ask Chase and Logan for the lowdown ? '

Michael wasn't sure what was happening here but it seemed that Lisa was working on a good mad . Okay , he was pretty mortified too but it could have been much worse . Nicole had always been kind of innocent and a bit on the clueless side and he was sure that she wouldn't ever breathe a word of the interruption to anyone .

Heck, they'd been interrupted by all of their friends during some pretty steamy make out sessions and that had never pissed off Lisa before .

' Lola barged in way more than Nicole ,' tried Michael , hoping to lighten the sudden tension in the air ,' Lisa, it was just an accident . I'll lock the door next time so there really isn't reason for you to get bent out of shape over this …'

Lisa glowered at him .' Really , Michael? Because I betcha Nicole didn't go barging in on Chase and Zoey or Lola and Vince ..'

Michael pouted .' Whatever is annoying you, Lisa, I am sorry . I will throw on some clothes and have a talk with Nicole until she gives you a proper apology .'

Lisa plopped down on the bed, the yellow bra dangling from one arm , and she tried to calm herself . This wasn't a good way to start their vacation and it wouldn't do her any good to fly off the handle now . Not to mention, Michael didn't have one clue .

Quinn and Logan didn't need her drama to deal with as they planned the happiest day of their lives and she needed to discuss this whole Nicole thing with someone who had a better perspective , who knew he r better , and would tell her the truth .

She knew that Quinn wouldn't sugarcoat anything for her while Zoey would likely defend Nicole as they were closer . As much as she loved Lola , she didn't want to risk more drama by involving her in this whole thing and Lisa felt sure she had a right to call it so.

Michael hastily threw on some clothes while his girlfriend stewed then decided to give her some space to calm down , he simply blew her a kiss .

' I'll see you down stairs for breakfast, my Lil Lisa '

Once Michael had left the room, Lisa tried composing herself as she dressed berating herself for becoming so insecure while pondering if she was creating problems when there were none or if her relationship with Michael had grown stale ?

Did they need to move forward ?

Lisa didn't know and somehow that scared her more right this moment .

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Vince was doing push ups as if his life depended on it .

Lola still dressed in the short lavender nightie watched the muscles ripple in his forearms , sighing at how incredibly hot her boyfriend looked all the while debating with herself on broaching the topic of his football scholarship . Though they were both attending colleges in New York, Lola knew that Vince still heard from coaches in Texas .

Vince swore he was good with his decision but Lola was afraid he would have regrets choosing her over Texas in cow country . It had been on her mind since they had started the drive back towards Santa Barbara though she hadn't uttered a word .

She considered checking the cards but had talked herself out of it more than once .

' Care to join me, Lo ? '

Lola pulled out an outfit from the closet as she crinkled her nose at him .' No '

Vince stopped the exercise to stare at her , curiously .' Lola, what's been on your mind ? You've been acting high strung since we got here and don't tell me its just because your going to be Quinn's maid of honor either '

' Well as much as I love Quinn I am almost afraid of what kind of dress I'll have to wear for her ,' admitted Lola , deciding on a dark blue camisole and a short skirt ,' I don't think Quinn's going to want Zoey to design anything for us .'

' Be thankful that Logan isn't picking out your dresses ' teased Vince , taking a long gulp of bottled water ,' c'mon , out with it '

Lola let out a tired sigh .' Are we alright, Vince , I mean, us ? You don't want to do anything different with your life or date other women ? '

She had been asked out a plenty but numerous good looking college men , turning them down had been a breeze as she had only felt a slight twinge upon occasion but Lola believed in her relationship with Vince . She wished it could be easier at times but things of importance such as love took time, patience, and hard work .

Vince drew Lola to him for a soft kiss .' We've been through this a few weeks ago, Lola , I have no desire to date anyone besides you unless this is your way of trying to dump me '

Lola fisted a hand in his shirt .' Don't be dumb, Vince . Actually I was thinking more of football and your career at college ball and uh, Texas '

Now it was Vince's turn to sigh .' My career is coming along fine right now and if it wasn't , I'd be the one to talk to you about it . I thought we agreed that we were going to practice being more mature in our relationship , Lo, and talking things through .'

' Which is what I was trying to do, Vince ! This is the longest relationship that I've had and I just I don't want us to trip up …my God, Logan and Quinn are actually getting married . I figured Quinn would hold off for two or three more years so it all seems insane that she wants them married as soon as they can manage ..'

Vince understood that this was Lola's way of admitting she herself was scared of their fate together so he didn't push . He was happy with school right now , sometimes he wondered if switching to Texas would be good for him but then something always held him back. He didn't know if it was his own fear or the whole not wanting to be apart from Lola which is why he hadn't really pursued that line of thinking either .

For a drama queen and a practicing Buddhist jock, Vince trusted in them .

' It will be alright ,' reassured Vince , without skipping a beat ,' we are really good . I feel like we're actually better , more confident together than we were when we were a couple at P.C.A. Stop worrying about us '

He kissed her oh so reverently .' As for Quinn and Logan, I will continue on my repeat that Logan has been ready to marry Quinn since he fell in love with her in high school . It was only a matter of time before Quinn's romantic side took over on the yes '

' I suppose that makes sense ,' Lola stepped out of his arms ,' for the record , I am way too young to get married . I haven't even gotten a TV commercial ad yet , Vince '

' It's a good thing I wasn't planning on proposing anytime soon then ,' joked Vince , who was much more cynical on marriage than his friends . That might be due to the hell that he had witnessed with his own parents relationship ,' We'd better get dressed and get downstairs before Michael eats all the good stuff '

' Well don't tell anyone I am going off my diet for vacation '

' Wouldn't dream of it '

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While the other couples were starting off their morning with heavy discussions and playful banter , Chase and Zoey had gotten caught up on their sleep , simply gotten dressed for the day, and were already downstairs drinking coffee and nibbling on fruit before their friends joined them . Julia had already left for work and Malcolm was holed up in his office with coffee and business dealings to attend to according to Chauncey .

Chase who had never been crazy about coffee had grown accustomed to the taste of it in Paris and now inhaled the stuff drank from his quietly as he took in the morning sunlight that shimmered out the large glass windows .

' I feel like we should be watching you girls old Girly Cow cartoons '

Zoey took a sip of juice then laughed ,' Lazy morning cartoons over breakfast sounds awesome, Chase . Though I suppose we wont have time for that before us girls head into town to wedding shop - Quinn and Logan actually marrying ….I still can't get over it '

' Surreal , I know , but then I am not going to be negative as they were there for us . Those two are obviously meant for each other and we are going to help them celebrate it '

' True ,' agreed Zoey, cautiously ,' I admit I wasn't sure if they could withstand the long distance but they aced it . ' She chewed the inside of her cheek ,' I think we should obviously help them all we can but Chase , we don't have the kind of budget to reciprocate Logan for all he did for our wedding ..we can barely afford half a lobster .'

Logan had lobsters flown in as a wedding present to help with Chase and Zoey's reception , not to mention, other little things that had helped make their day special . It had been very thoughtful and appreciated but this was also Logan Reese , would he expect them to return the favor ?

' I know, Zo, and come on, Logan isn't that much of a jerk ,' reminded Chase, evenly ,' or Michael and I would owe him a bunch of money still for all the months we were broke and he made sure we didn't starve at PCA. Remember the days Michael and I were sharing microwave popcorn and Jell-O because we budgeted too much Sushi Rox and Jet Brew visits ? Those were rough but the dude treated us to a lot of food '

Logan clamped a hand on Chase's shoulder as he and Quinn joined them at the table .

' I couldn't let you jerks starve ' told Logan with a cocky grin ,' why are you talking about that ? Man, that was like forever ago .' He noted the bowl of fruit and pitchers of orange juice along with the carafe of coffee that set on the sideboard ,' Where's Chauncey ? Did you two put in the requests for breakfast already ? '

Zoey popped a grape in her mouth .' The fruit is fine for now , Logan, at least until I get back on California time to which then I'll want some pancakes '

Quinn looked at her friends with concern .' Did you two get enough rest ? '

' We're fine, Quinn,' picked up Chase , indicating his coffee cup ,' I forgot how awesome and comfortable the beds here were because I slept like a log . I have missed the Jet Brew blend unlike the - coffee with the kick you wide awake bitterness Zo and I have daily '

Zoey jostled her husbands arm. ' Parisian coffee will kick you wide awake is what he means though I swear it took them six months to stop over-charging us for it because we are Americans '

Logan chuckled , amused .' Man, Paris , I haven't been there since I was a kid . We're really happy that you two could come back here to vacation and wedding with us .'

' Oh, we wouldn't miss it for the world ,' said Zoey, looking at Quinn ,' So, Q, I know your simple is way different than mine and Chase , but are we gonna have to zap your love over here to keep him from becoming a Groom-zilla ?'

Quinn smiled, ruefully .' Logan and I discussed that this morning, Zo, and he promised me he wouldn't go over the top. I'm just happy Logan wants to be involved in the planning and decision making with me '

They all recalled how a family war over such things as number of guests , food, and décor had nearly broken out between Zoey's Mom Amanda and herself , not to mention, Chase's mother wanting to be involved, it had been tense until Zoey and Chase had a meltdown to literally take over their own wedding a week before the event .

' As long as Logan doesn't try to surprise you with the wedding ' added Zoey, teasingly .

Quinn flicked her gaze to the love of her life .' He'd better not '

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Nicole , there you are !'

Michael had run all over the huge house in search of his old friend figuring that she would have totally axed the whole hot tub thing after the whole mortifying interruption this morning yet here she was in a sexy cobalt blue string bikini lazing around in the bubbly hot water . He swallowed the sudden lump in his throat as he forced his gaze up to her pretty face lest not to be distracted by this new look for her .

He'd seen her in a bikini before lots of time except now she filled it out much better .

Damn stop thinking that !

Nicole flushed as she watched Michael striding over to her .' Michael , I am terribly sorry ! God, I'll never be able to apologize to you enough ! Is Lisa spitting mad at me ? '

Michael sat on the edge of the tub, ran a hand lightly into the warm water .' Lisa isn't happy with you , no , but I think its because she doesn't really know you , Nic. So its probably more embarrassed than anything else so if you could just try to be charming maybe smooth things over with her , I'd appreciate it .'

Nicole laid her hand over his and lifted her eyes up at him .' I understand , Michael, and of course, I will apologize again ' She smoothed her lips ,' So, you and Lisa are still serious dating , I take it ? '

' I like to think that Lisa and I are as serious and steady as it comes , Nicole ' answered Michael, carefully ,' I think we got all the fighting and immature break ups done in high school . '

Nicole moved closer the water bubbling above her cleavage as she walked , a tempting half smile playing around her pink lips as she noticed that Michael was trying not to stare .

It gave her a little jolt that she enjoyed and wondered why until now that she had never been attracted to Michael Barrett before ?

It was a puzzle .

' That is so refreshing , Michael . The guys I meet don't want relationships and commitment just a good time , which isn't what I want ,' She stepped up onto the cement stair and their eyes locked for just a second but it was enough ,' I suppose you must be one of the last good guys out there .'

Nervous laughter bubbled from Michael's throat .' Oh , I bet there are more of us out there than just me and you know, Logan, Chase, and uh, Vince '

He snapped his fingers as a thought occurred to him,' Like Dustin '

Nicole held out her hand as Michael took it to help her out , her lithe body brushing against his .

' Zoey's little brother ? He's just a kid, Michael '

' Well, yeah, but you know what I mean ,' stuttered Michael, reacting like any normal male to a sexy , half dressed , gorgeous woman ,' Whoa, look at the time , its getting late and I don't want cold pancakes so I'll see you for breakfast '

Not sure why he was working up to a panic attack, Michael ran away as fast as he could.

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Breakfast was a smorgasbord of scrambled eggs, pancakes, bacon, sausage, quiche Lorraine , fresh bagels , and more fresh fruit which the group ate with gusto amid talking over one another as they discussed everything from Lola's method acting class to Chase's latest article then right into when Quinn and Logan would have an engagement picture taken to be put in the newspapers .

They would have to sit down with Malcolm and Julia soon to discuss and plan the cocktail engagement party at the Santa Barbara country club . This would be Quinn's concession to compromise as Logan was quite excited for this pre-wedding event .

Malcolm insisted that his driver take the girls into town to aid with their shopping and they would be more comfortable in the stretch limo than in Logan's sports car which they readily agreed to . Kissing their respective boyfriends goodbye , they left the house as the men wandered into the huge game room downstairs for the big screen TV and videogames before the tuxedo whiz arrived with the suits .

Chase clamped a friendly hand on Michael's shoulder noting how jumpy his best friend had been during breakfast . Michael acting like a fool was clearly a sign .

' Ok, pal, what's going on with you ? Your acting nuts ..did you and Lisa have a fight ? '

' I don't know if we did or not but Lisa is mad at me because we got interrupted when we were, you know , by Nicole this morning ,' Michael mock whispered not wanting Vince and Logan to get wind of this ,' I went to talk to Nicole about apologizing to Lisa again ….she was in a bikini '

Chase stared blankly at him .' Ouch , that ranks up there as a worse moment . Hell that's even worse than when Zoey walked in on me and Rebecca kissing that one time '

Michael hit him .' It is the worse ! I think there might be more bad too …'

Chase frowned .' You mean seeing Nicole in a bikini ? Dude, all the girls wore bikinis so it isn't like its new or anything '

Michael looked around the room, furtively .' Chase , I think Nicole hit on me ! '

Chase chuckled at the idea .' Nicole hit on you ? Really cause I don't see that happening …I mean, we all know she is a world class flirt but she didn't even flirt with Logan in the ninth grade even though she thought he was cute . You trying to use Nicole to make Lisa jealous , Michael ? '

Michael considered this as they plopped down on the oversized leather couch while Logan pulled out a pile of video games from a wall unit as Vince studied the pinball machine in the corner .

' Okay those are good points , Chase ,' Michael calmed down a bit , listening to his friends logic ,' it might be possible I'm overreacting because Lisa's being unreasonable about this morning . After all, Nicole and I never even had a spark before …..though I gotta point out the woman fills out the bikini in all the right ways now .'

' Maybe but don't mention that in front of Lisa ' suggested Chase, helpfully ,' Besides Zo and I talked about Nicole last night . Zoey thinks she is just lonely and wants some attention especially since we all have someone except for her .'

Vince turned his attention from Punch Out to his friends conversation after catching enough of it to follow along .

' I know the girls were or are friends with Nicole but I have to wonder if the dynamics have since changed ,' brought up a concerned Vince ,' Lola was freaking out about looking as hot as Nicole . Has something shifted there ? '

Logan paused the video to contribute to the lameness of the room .' Why are we having this stupid conversation in the first place ? Dudes, Nicole is harmless . I mean it'd be a different ballgame all together if it were Dana ….Quinn seriously has issues with her but come on , Nicole is only annoying at the best '

Chase tossed a pillow at Logan's head as he ducked .' I agree that Nicole is a old friend and granted the girls did used to be close . We've all changed so its only natural it affected the friendships ….I mean lets be practical . What do we know ? '

' Nicole is not as dingy as she used to be '

' Quinn and Lola used to hang out more together back in the day than with Nicole ,' suggested Logan ,' Quinn was kind of angry with me that I invited Nicole here by accident then forgot to tell her . I offered to kick her out but that'd be rude '

' Rude ? Really, Reese ? ' Vince gave him a fixed look ,' so lets follow the original trail which is that Nicole and Zoey are still good friends . So we watch the situation and deal accordingly so there isn't trouble for the wedding '

Logan gave him a fist bump .' Yeah cause my wedding has to be everything Quinn wants it to be . I don't want her to have second thoughts about me or us ..'

' Oh calm down, Logan, if Quinn would have changed her mind about you , that would have happened a long time ago when you were more of a jerk '

' Chase is right ,' added Michael, knowingly ,' you were still a jerk , a huge one at that, when she first started falling for you and she didn't dump your ass then so Quinn loves you , man . '

Logan popped in the old Go Karts video handing the controllers to Chase .' I know that Quinn loves me , I love her . So I was thinking of having our engagement cake made into our bench ? What do you guys think -romantic, eh ? '

' Oh that is so lame '

'Or how about a broom closet cake ? That is horrible, Reese '

' Look we all love you and Quinn, we know your have always had a weird relationship but having certain objects made into cakes isn't romantic ,' this came from Chase ,' you didn't see me having a flagpole cake made for me and Zoey '

Logan flipped him the bird ,' You would have if you had thought of it, Chase '

Ever the calm in the storm, Vince stepped between the ridiculousness of the argument .

' Guys , shut up! Logan , you promised Quinn that you wouldn't go crazy and your already working on that crazy . Quinn wants a intimate pretty wedding so give it to her '

Chauncey stepped down the stairs , a well dressed man behind him.' Gentlemen , Oliver has arrived to fit you for your suits '

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Santa Barbara was a home to a bevy of wedding venues and more bridal boutiques than Quinn had ever seen before in her life from an intriguing shop called Victorian Vogue which a creative window display reenacting the wedding scene out of Mannequin caught the bride to be's eye to the high end shops such as Stella York and Panache .

Panache 's showroom held elegant , designer gowns with yards of tulle and gilded displays showcasing gorgeous jewels and ornate headpieces that stunned the eye and only gave Quinn a case of the jitters .Not so much the I changed my mind jitters but the kind that was intimidated by the high society snobbery the shop depicted when she was clearly more of a thrift store girl.

It was a bit overwhelming .

Zoey gave Quinn a slight nudge .' Quinn, what's the matter ? Logan said that Julia made an appointment for you here '

Quinn twisted her ring, nervously .' I don't think I can go in , Zoey ,' fretted Quinn, her gaze focused on the gorgeous gown with yards of silk and the fairytale style of it ,' I'm not the whole princessy type - no offense '

Zoey smiled and rested her hands on her shoulders .' None taken but I'm sure that isn't the only style of gown this shop has in stock . I bet a shop like this caters to the old Hollywood style and I can see you in something like that, honey '

Quinn was hesitant .' I was thinking more whimsy '

Lola flanked the other side of Quinn and slipped her arm around her as well .' Having second thoughts about marrying the pig ? There is still more than enough time to give back the ring , Quinn, and we can regular shop instead '

Quinn shot her a dirty look ,' No, Lola , I am not '

' Look Quinn I know none of these fancy dresses look like your style but you know this ritzy place could have our dresses instead ,' countered Lola without skipping a beat ,' we should at least go inside and take a look around . Isn't that right , Lisa ?'

' I think if Quinn is uncomfortable just looking at a window display we should find another shop ,' stated the dancer , matter of fact,' that Mary Ellen's shop looked fun '

' No, it was nice of Julia to make the appointment ,' Quinn screwed up her courage ,' I don't want to insult my future mother in law either . I am being silly …it's a bridal shop '

' I bet they serve us champagne ,' announced Nicole , holding open the door ,' come along, Quinn, standing outside debating is downright silly '

' Oh alright …' muttered Quinn as she and the others entered the elegant shop taking in the antique chairs, the gilded oversized mirrors , and racks of designer gowns sparkling with rhinestones , seeded pearls , and yards and yards of satin and lace .

It wasn't all that different than the shop they had visited when they were dress shopping with Zoey the previous summer for her wedding . Quinn brushed a hand down the skirt of her pink and orange summer dress feeling like a duck out of water though her friends didn't seem to have the same problem as they browsed various racks of satin dresses .

A smartly dressed older woman in a sleek dove grey suit approached her , a welcoming smile on her face as she assessed the young ladies casual dress thinking perhaps they were only window shopping in wishful thinking .

.

' Hello, I'm Claudia Monet,' she said , extending a hand ,' do you have an appointment , my dear ? I am afraid we only take on prospective brides by appointment only '

' I have one ,' managed Quinn, politely ,' I'm Quinn Pensky . My future mother in law , Julia Reese set up this appointment for me '

The name Reese changed everything including the haughty tone as Claudia clasped Quinn's hand as if they were long time friends as she signaled for the champagne in crystal flutes to be brought out by her associate .

' You must be the lucky woman marrying Logan ,' gushed Claudia ,' there will be a lot of broken hearts around this town when the young ladies hear that you snagged him .'

Quinn bit her tongue before she blurted out that Logan hadn't been the so called playboy prince for a long time now but that would just give the woman fodder to gossip with .

' Yes , I am marrying Logan '

Recognizing the slight tick in her best friends eye, Lola handed Lisa the green silk gown and made a quick beeline to come to her aid . She didn't think Quinn had her zap watch on her or that she would use it on the rude saleswoman but it couldn't hurt to watch her .

' Quinn and Logan have been together forever ,' explained Lola , brightly ,' I'm the best friend and maid of honor , Lola . So , Quinn here is wanting something different , dreamy and sort of fairyland '

' Whimsical '

' Yes that is what I am looking for but not fairytale …no big ruffles or long trains or princess like isn't me ….'

Claudia served Quinn with a critical eye .' Yes, I know just the gowns for you ….I'll go collect a few for you to try on '

She disappeared into the backroom as Quinn slanted a look at Lola .' Thanks for that , Lola , but who does that woman think she is ? She didn't care to give me the time of day until I mentioned the name Reese then all that gushing ….am I suppose to overlook the little crack about the other women she just threw in there ? '

Huffing , Quinn folded her arms over her chest .' Logan and I are very much in love , thank you very much '

Lola sputtered a laugh .'Geez, get a grip, Quinn , it isn't that important . I highly doubt she actually knows Logan or maybe his Dad's old ex-wives bought their wedding gowns here so she's just blowing smoke .'

' I suppose that could be true ,' Quinn picked up a silver high heel to examine ,' somehow it was easier looking for a prom dress than the gown I am going to marry Logan in - its daunting .'

' That's why we're here to help you ,' Lola patted her shoulder ,' they have some fabulous wedding dresses here but they don't have actual prices on them .'

' Well I refuse to spend thousands of dollars my family doesn't have on a dress '

' I thought Malcolm and Julia offered to buy your dress for you '

' They did but I'm not sure how I feel about it ' worried Quinn, thinking of her parents and the modest farm ,' I'm trying not to think how much our engagement party is going to be or I'll have a heart attack '

' Look Logan wants to plan the party so just let him do it ,' added Lola, trying to be helpful ,' he planned parties all the time back at PCA , they didn't suck . It's better that he handles the engagement party then your actual wedding '

' True '

Meanwhile Zoey, Lisa, and Nicole were examining a large rack of colorful silk and satin gowns hoping to find dresses that would appeal to Quinn's eclectic fashion sense . Budding fashion designer herself, Zoey unearthed a simple soft green , satin sheath with elaborate rhinestones around the neckline and waist then held it up for Lisa and Nicole to give their vote . It said something but what, Zoey wasn't sure .

Lisa put her thumb down .' Too matronly . Your married , Zo, but not old '

' The color kind of works ' added Nicole , holding up a very short white satin strapless dress against her . She imagined it would fit like a glove ,' Oh this is really sexy '

Lisa shot her a mutinous look .' That dress says I'm easy , ask me how '

Zoey looked from Lisa to Nicole , confused by the venom in the dancers voice . She had never heard Lisa be that mean ever and there was a glint of something unrecognizable in Nicole's eyes that she had never seen before either .

' Uh, what is going on here , guys ? '

Nicole responded with a syrupy smile that didn't quite reach her eyes .' I am extremely sorry for the interruption this morning , Lisa . I just assumed that Michael would be alone …it was mortifying for us all .'

Lisa wanted to just take the apology , let it go, but the gnawing feeling clawed at her . Overreacting or not , she just didn't believe Nicole to be that innocent .

' Michael wont ever be alone ' hissed Lisa , gripping the hanger tightly in her hand .,' He is my boyfriend . I'll always be right there with him '

' Now Lisa , don't be absurd ,' drawled Nicole , coyly ,' why I've never had to poach a man in all of my life '

Before Lisa or Zoey could come up with a suitable retort , Nicole went to find a fitting room to try on the sexy number with a man already on her mind .She didn't intend to poach anyone but if Michael wanted her , she intended to be prepared .

Zoey shoved the dress in the middle of the rack .' What was that all about ? Lisa , I can't believe those words came out of your mouth - oh my God, what happened ? '

Lisa shoved at her dark hair as she tossed the dress she was holding on a chair .' Zoey, I know that Nicole is your good friend but the twit has designs on Michael '

'Designs ? Michael ? Lisa , that is ridiculous ! I have known Nicole since the eighth grade and she just wouldn't be that way '

' Well I am sorry , Zoey, but this Nicole is quite obvious ,' muttered an indignant Lisa , taking a cleansing breath ,' I'm going to go see if Quinn needs my help '

Still absorbing this unbelievable information , Zoey debated internally on having a heart to heart with Nicole to smooth the tension out between her and Lisa or stay out of the matter . Maybe it was better for Quinn's sake that they just ignored it for now and not spoil the afternoon with unnecessary drama .

******************************WB************************************

' Quinn, you look radiant ! '

' Um, I don't think this is really me ' murmured Quinn, as she gazed at her reflection in the ornate mirror not recognizing the woman who looked back ,' I feel naked '

Due to the prodding of a persistent Claudia and an encouraging Lola, Quinn was draped into a cream colored form fitting lace gown , the intricate lace and chiffon sheer enough to show off her thigh while the bodice plunged revealing more cleavage than she was comfortable as thin silk caps of lace showed off her shoulders .

She crossed her arms over her chest .' I was thinking something more modest and romantic , this is too overtly sexy for me '

' Oh but Quinn, you look divine . I do have a corset gown made of Chantilly lace that you must try on …' Claudia dashed off to the backroom before Quinn could respond with a no.,' Trust me '

Quinn spun to face her friends .' Well, say something '

' Logan would likely haul you off to the pool house if he saw how hot you look in that dress '

' It isn't really you, Quinn ,' contributed Lisa , taking a sip of the champagne that had been presented to them as they shopped ,' though Lola is probably right about the Logan part '

' It's like a ten thousand dollar dress , Quinn ' contributed Nicole who was avoiding speaking to Lisa until she could speak privately with Zoey to fix things ,' the boutique I work at had one in stock by luck only .'

' Quinn, your obviously not comfortable here ,' pointed out always practical Zoey,' the salewoman isn't making an effort to find the right gown for you, we should just go to another shop . There are five bridal shops on this street alone .'

Quinn stepped down off the step and settled into an armchair .' Your right , all of you are, but I just didn't want to insult Julia or hurt her feelings as she 's always so good to me and Logan . However I have tried and this just isn't for me '

' Come on , get changed and we'll try another shop ' encouraged Lola , giving her best friend a gentle shove ,' one that doesn't want to have you show off your breasts '

Quinn gave her a fixed look .' Your still not wearing sequins in my wedding , Lola '

Lola shrugged , good naturedly .' I had to try '

*********************************WB******************************

Video games had segued into a marathon of action movies while the four men dressed in classic black tuxedoes were measured and marked while the tailor tended to them as a car screeched on screen, tired squealing , as Logan lowered his arms to the side .

' These should fit the bill perfect for us without all the hassle ,' decided Logan ,' y you might hold all the green bow ties for us until I get like a fabric swatch from Quinn on the right shade of green . '

' Of course, Mr. . Reese '

Chase scatched his head .' Isn't it green and orange , Logan ? How do we know Quinn wont want to torture us and make us mix the colors ? '

' Oh my God , an orange and green plaid bow tie ! That would be hideous '

Michael groaned as he fidgeted , feeling yet another pin .' That would make us look like nerd best men that is for sure . I don't think Quinn would do that though ….her taste has kind of tamed down over the years '

' Don't sweat it , guys , Quinn will go with the green ,' reassured Logan , watching the ever so charming Face on the A Team con the hot woman on the TV ,' you know , that Face has good looks and style . If I didn't want to become a director and producer , I could very easily be a charming scam artist '

' You are a moron '

' This is a kick ass show , Vince ,' contributed Logan ,' I mean its old but it has it all . Scheming, action, romance , and blowing things up …I don't know how we didn't find out about it before now '

' We were watching Miami Vice and Simon &Simon that is why ,' replied Vince of their nights binging old 1980's detective series in their PCA days ,' one of the dudes in my dorm had these on DVD , I caught a few episodes , and got hooked .'

' It is addictive ' agreed Michael , looking at the tailor then at the bowl of popcorn nearby ,' we about finished here ? I am starving !'

Oliver made notes in his palm pilot .' You may change back into your regular clothes , be mindful of the pins, and we'll be on our way . We will make the necessary details on these , Mr. Reese and we'll hold them until your ready for delivery '

' Thanks , Oliver ' replied Logan, removing his jacket ,' My Father is in his office if you need to speak with him . I don't know if he is wanting a new monkey suit for the wedding or if he intends to wear one of the fifty he owns .'

' Of course ' As Oliver headed upstairs , the men quickly changed out of the tuxedoes and into their jeans and tee shirts as they hung them up on a rack to be taken back to the shop.

Logan went into the mini fridge and began tossing out Blix to the guys .' I wonder how Quinn and the girls are doing looking for their dresses - Julia made Quinn an appointment at the shop where she got the dress she married my dad in ..'

He took a swig of the pina colada Blix .' I miss my Mom . God, she would have loved Quinn like I do and I could just imagine her helping with all the wedding stuff '

Logan drew a breath , rubbed absently at his heart , that always felt so much whenever he thought of his Mom . Though it had been a long time since Lorraine Reese had passed away a day didn't go by that her son didn't think of her and miss her dearly .

Julia , his stemom , was proud of him and that meant more to him that Logan ever really thought that it would . She didn't try to bribe him like some of the other step-mothers had and she truly supported him . Logan rubbed his heart a little harder , feeling off kilter.

Chase laid a hand on his shoulder , understanding .' I bet your Mom is up there looking down at you, Logan, and being just happy for you and all '

Logan nodded , bent his head to hide the emotion on display there , and managed a grateful smile to his friend . He didn't like to be that vulnerable amongst his buds but they all knew how close they had been and how much he still missed her .

' Thanks, Chase '

Vince sensed hesitation from Logan , prompted .' What is it, Reese ? We all get about your Mom and that's how its supposed to be but we can tell something else is going on in that twisted mind of yours as well .'

Michael grabbed a hand of popcorn .' You might as well spill it . Let us help '

Logan pushed at his hair in frustration .' I don't know ..I mean, I haven't even discussed it with Quinn yet but I don't know how I feel about it . One part of me wants to ask Julia to do like the Mom parts for my side for the wedding but would that be betraying my mom's memory or something ? '

He growled under his breath as he began pacing the room .' Julia never tried being my Mom ever cause she isn't …..but what could it hurt ? She cares about me and I kind of think of her that way which is really damn confusing after all of these years that she's been married to my Dad '

He had been resistant at first to Julia in his life , figuring her to be another gold digger like the previous ex-wives of Malcolm, but she hadn't been anything like the others , Julia was warm, caring, and intelligent . Quinn had convinced him that very first summer that they were a couple to give Julia a chance , a real one, that it wouldn't be anything wrong or disrespectful to his moms memory .

Still here it was almost 4 years later and Logan felt torn by how his emotions had changed .

.

Vince who was estranged from his father and didn't even discuss his mother but was a keen observer of relationships . He understood Logan's fears and hoped to alieve them .

' I don't think Quinn would be mad at you for talking about this with us ,' answered Vince , in his very wise manner of calm ,' nor do I think your Mom would think of this as a betrayal. If you want to ask Julia to be Mother of the groom, I think you should '

Logan stared at the framed picture of his nine year old self laughing with his mom on the beach , heart swelling from the love it evoked in him then at the picture beside it of his graduation from PCA with a beaming Julia and smiling Malcolm flanking either side of him . It was almost a family picture of the three of them and the only one that Logan had ever seen of them in the house .

Logan released the breath he'd been holding on a sigh ,' I think I might have too '

**********************************WB******************************

Shopping with Quinn for possible wedding gowns as well as simple maids of honor dresses was turning out to be more of an ordeal . The group were visiting their third bridal shop with no avail though the bride to be had tried on and dismissed a lace mermaid gown reminiscent of her high school prom dress, a sleek white satin sheath dress mindful of the 1940's , and an Edwardian style dress while the rest of her friends tried on numerous green dresses from short to long .

' This is impossible ! None of these are the perfect dress ! Am I expecting too much ….I just feel like I should know immediately if it's the dress for me '

Zoey clad in a short sea green dress with thin straps and a straight skirt gave her a sympathetic smile . She had been overzealous about her gown too and it was nice to see Quinn worked up in a snit over not finding even one possibility already .

' No ,' stated Zoey, giving her hand a little squeeze ,' its our first day out shopping , Quinn , and there isn't a rule that you have to find your perfect wedding dress immediately either . It will be alright '

Resigned , Quinn conceded defeat for the afternoon .' The thing is that I know what I want in my dress '

' Zoey can still make it for you ' reminded Lola, helpfully as she rejoined the others in the salon . She looked just stunning in a simple strapless dark green long dress ,' but what do you think of this dress for me ? I think it makes me look like a Buzz model '

Nicole , arms loaded with pencil thin high heels and ornate gold jewelry looked at her friend ,' You do look like a model, Lola - hmm, maybe you should try getting modeling jobs rather than acting . You might have better luck '

It was said in all honesty and innocence but made a thoughtful Lola frown - the remark just casual enough to remind her of the careful compliments given by Chase's old girlfriend Rebecca . Of course that was way after Nicole had left PCA so she wouldn't have any way of knowing about it .

' Thanks , Nicole , but I could never be a model ,' added Lola,' I like to eat real food '

' It was just a thought '

' It is a very pretty dress but I don't know if I want you girls in strapless ' says Quinn , pawing through racks of vintage gowns of all incarnations ,' I think maybe something one shoulder or off the shoulder style '

' Oh my gosh, Quinn, look at this ' announced Lisa , stepping out of the changing room with a little twirl that showed off her long legs . She looked just beautiful in a mid length pale peach chiffon dress that fastened at the waist by a rhinestone brooch ,' I know the color isn't exactly right but its very pretty and the lines are lovely '

Quinn let out a wistful sigh .' Oh Lisa , you look amazing ! I love it ! ' She turned to Zoey , an expectant look on her hopeful face, ' Zo, could we dye it or would it hurt the fabric ? '

Zoey examined Lisa with a designer 's critical eye .' It can be dyed without any problems , I think . Is this what you are thinking for all of us , Quinn ? '

' Well, I wasn't but now that I've seen it on Lisa , its got to be her dress ' says an excited Quinn , glowing with delight ,' we'll find just the right ones for you and Lola later '

Lisa pirouetted across the carpet .' Wonderful plus you'll love this - its in a bargain bin for a whole seventy -five dollars and change .'

' Perfect ,' Quinn hugged Lisa, enthusiastically ,' get changed and I'll go buy it , Lisa '

' Quinn, I can pay for my own dress '

' Nonsense , Lisa , I've got it, stated Quinn, looking at them all,' you may need to purchase new outfits for whatever numerous pre-wedding events Logan and his family may insist upon throwing so the least I can do is pay for your maid of honor gowns '

' See the third store is a charm '

' My first wedding purchase , I am so happy ,' rattled on Quinn ,' once you all get changed and I pay for Lisa's dress, we should go to lunch . '

' Oh sushi please , I'd die for sushi '

' I was thinking a burger and fries '

' Quinn, aren't you going to diet before you become a bride ? '

' Don't be silly, Lola ,' Quinn waved a hand as if swatting the idea away ,' my weight is fine . Besides which I want some fat and grease before my parents arrive in town and my mom takes over the kitchen forcing us to eat wheatgrass and kale pasta and Lord knows what her newest healthy habit is now '

Zoey pouted ,' Aw , come on, Quinn, take pity on me . I need some sushi '

' Maybe that new bistro up the road carries both '

Engaged in their dining debate nobody paid attention to the scruffy looking blond haired young men in old worn jeans and a nondescript tee shirt enter the store hiding behind a rack of men's suits , his gaze locking onto Quinn, a slight sneer filling his angular face .

He gripped the hanger of a old tweed suit , observing the lovely brunette , quietly .

By the fates, he had found her .

.