The holidays had come to an end, and as much as Josh enjoyed them, they were always exhausting. Not only for him, but for Maya as well. Josh sat on the edge of the bed, lacing his shoes and he glanced over his shoulder at the sleeping blonde. She was truly beautiful. Everything he could have ever hoped for, everything he didn't even know to hope for, Maya was it. She was quick, always keeping him on his toes. She was kind, loving him and his family with a capacity amazed him every single day. She was smart, funny, stubborn; Maya was everything. As he lost himself in his thoughts of his girlfriend, he couldn't help but hope she felt the same about him. Josh's phone buzzed in his pocket, pulling his attention away from the sleeping girl behind him.
From: My Brotha
Hey Josh, I'm outside whenever you're ready.
To: My Brotha
On my way.
Josh texted back quickly. He quietly walked over to Maya, brushing her hair out of her face slightly and gently placing a kiss on her cheek.
Still mostly asleep, the corners of Maya's lips curled up at Josh's contact.
"I'll be back this afternoon," He whispered.
Maya nodded, barely noticeable. Josh had told her yesterday that Cory needed his help moving Christmas decorations, and while that sounded so fun, Maya would much rather sleep right now. "Love you," She mumbled, her eyes still shut.
"Love you," Josh repeated, his heart surging at those simple words.
"My brotha!" Cory smiled as Josh slid into the passenger seat of his car.
"My brotha!" Josh repeated a large smile painted across his face. Josh was lucky to have such a close relationship with his brother, and he was more than grateful to have him in times like this.
"How've you been?" Cory asked as he pulled out of his parking spot in front of Josh and Maya's apartment.
"A lot of things have changed -it's been a whole week!" Josh teased.
"Alright, alright," Cory conceded. "And Maya?"
"She's good," Josh smiled just thinking about his girlfriend. "Really good." He was worried he wouldn't see the real Maya again after what happened the previous year. But Maya was the strongest person he knew and while Josh knew she carried the weight of their lost child with her, she still managed to pull herself up and continue living her life and being in the moment with Josh every day. If he thought he couldn't love her more, over the last year she proved him wrong.
"So, it has only been a week…" Cory said sitting across from his brother at the familiar diner. "What's up?" He asked shrugging, still not sure why Josh asked to meet with him.
"Can't I just have breakfast with my big brother?" Josh asked with a sly grin slinking up the side of his face.
"Absolutely you can. Is that what this is?" Cory tried to clarify.
Josh looked up at his brother, "No," He finally whispered shaking his head.
"What's up, Josh?" Cory repeated.
"I wanted… your advice, I guess."
Cory nodded, staying quiet now, letting Josh talk.
"So Maya…" Josh started, his hands twisting in front of him nervously.
Cory had to actively try to keep the smile off his face as Josh struggled to continue.
"I mean… it's been years, we've been together for… what feels like most of my adult life, honestly."
"Mhmm…" Cory nudged Josh to continue.
"I know… I know you've known her practically her whole life - - and so have I. And I know you know her really well, and you… I don't know." Josh continued to fumble with his words. He finally looked back up at his brother, their eyes meeting, Cory immediately calming Josh. "I want to ask her to marry me, Core."
The smile he was trying to hold back earlier finally spread across Cory's face. "Josh,"
Josh exhaled and pulled a box out of his pocket. "I've got this… and I don't know if…" he continued to struggle and opened the small box.
"Josh," Cory repeated. "This is beautiful. It's great… very Maya." He added with a raised eyebrow.
"So what do you think?" Josh asked wide-eyed, looking up at Cory, suddenly feeling incredibly young and in need of some kind of reassurance and guidance from his big brother in this moment.
"Josh. I think you and Maya are a beautiful couple. You two have been through… hell together, and you've only gotten stronger. I've seen you both grow up, seen your love for each other mature as each of you have. I can't think of a better woman for you to spend the rest of your life with. And I can't think of a better man for Maya to have for the rest of hers."
Josh exhaled heavily, his whole body finally relaxing. He hadn't told anyone what he was planning on doing throughout the holidays, and it was adding a whole new level of stress for him. Josh was glad to finally have this secret off his chest, and he was even happier that Cory didn't think he was crazy and supported his decision.
"Have you talked to Shawn?" Cory asked.
Josh looked up, pausing at Cory's question. "I haven't," he whispered. "Should I?"
Cory shrugged, "You don't have to. But you know Shawn,"
Josh nodded, "I do…" he said contemplating his decisions.
"When are you going to do it?" Cory asked, pulling Josh back into the excitement of this life-changing decision his little brother was making.
"Her birthday weekend," Josh said with a small nod. "I've got a whole weekend planned out,"
"Nice. That's like… next weekend?!"
Josh nodded, taking a bite of his breakfast. "It is."
"How long have you been sitting on this, Josh?" Cory asked shaking his head.
"Since about October."
"So you've really put some thought into this…"
"Yeah," Josh said running his hand through his hair. "I mean… I can't imagine my life without her. She's perfect. Even when she's not perfect," Josh laughed to himself. "She's still perfect. She calls me out on my bullshit, she pushes me… she's sexy as hell." He added with a sly smile.
"Alright," Cory made a slight face. Josh was his brother, but Maya had been more like a daughter to him, and Cory would never be able to talk about Maya in that way with Josh.
Josh laughed and shrugged slightly. "I love her, Core. So much. That's all I feel like I need to know..."
Cory nodded.
"Do you think she's my Topanga?"
Cory laughed, shaking his head. "No, no I do not."
Josh's brows pulled together and his head tilted to the side, puzzled by his brother's response.
"I don't think she's your Topanga, Josh. I think she's your Maya. I think she is exactly who you need. You never needed a Topanga, you needed a Maya."
Josh smiled slightly, his head nodding just once at his brother's comment.
"Call Shawn, just give him a heads up."
"Yeah," Josh nodded as he closed the ring box, sliding it back into his pocket.
"I'm so happy for you little brother,"
"Don't say anything,"
"Of course." Cory agreed.
"Unless you want to tell Shawn." Josh said pointing at his brother.
Cory threw his hands up, "Nope."
Josh rolled his eyes slightly, a small laugh slipping out.
-/-/-
"No."
"Shawn," Josh said, his hand upturned as Shawn paced above him.
"No, Josh."
Josh finally stood up himself. "Shawn. How is this a problem for you? You know we live together; we've lived together for years. You like me."
Shawn shook his head. "I don't like you."
"Yes you do. And so does Maya, and I love her. You know this."
Shawn huffed. "I need to call Cory."
"I already talked to Cory."
Shawn looked up at Josh.
Josh raised his eyebrows, "You're okay with this, Shawn." He told him with a slight nod. "You know I'd never hurt her. You know me; I'm not going anywhere. You know what we've been through…"
Shawn didn't say anything. His eyes were locked on the brunette in front of him. He did know Josh; since the day he was born -longer, in fact, than he knew Maya. He did know what the two of them had been through together, and he saw how Josh supported his daughter, how he cared for Maya, and how much he truly loved her.
"I'm asking her to marry me this weekend, Shawn…" Josh was, once again, telling Shawn.
Shawn ran his hand through his shaggy hair, exhaling heavily. "Okay."
Josh nodded. "She's gonna be fine. You know me."
Shawn tilted his head, sending a strong look Josh's direction. "She better be." He said, his voice a little lower than before.
Josh smiled and put his arms around Shawn giving him a hug, a few pats on the back as he did so. "She's lucky to have you, Shawn,"
Shawn swayed his head side to side, rolling his eyes slightly, "She's lucky to have you too," He said begrudgingly.
"Thank you." Josh nodded. "I'm lucky to have her," he added, reassuring Shawn that he wasn't taking this lightly. He wanted Maya for the rest of their lives; no matter what.
-/-/-
Josh wrapped his arms around Maya, bringing her body closer to his, his bare chest against her back. Maya's breathing slowly increased with Josh's touch. "Happy birthday," he whispered, his head resting on her shoulder.
Maya smiled, her eyes remaining closed.
"I have something for you,"
Maya opened an eye, raising her eyebrow at Josh's words.
"Wanna know what it is?"
Maya bit her lip and rolled around to where she was facing Josh now.
"Good morning," Josh smiled placing a kiss between Maya's eyebrows.
"You have a present for me?" Maya's eyes were lit with excitement.
"I do," Josh nodded.
Maya raised her eyebrows.
"You," Josh started. "Have a four day weekend."
Maya's brows pulled together in confusion. She shook her head, "No I don't,"
Josh smiled, "Happy birthday,"
Maya looked at Josh puzzled, "How…?"
Josh ran his hand through Maya's messy blonde hair. "When have I not been able to get you out of work?"
Maya smiled shaking her head. Josh had been pulling this move since they first started dating; she had no idea how he managed to pull it off every time, but Maya was always pleasantly surprised.
"And," Josh started again.
"And?" Maya tilted her head intrigued.
"We are going away for the weekend. So, pack a bag, I'm going to fix breakfast, and then we'll head out."
"Where are we going?" Maya asked.
Josh shrugged, "Surprise."
Maya pouted. "Oh, come on," she pleaded wrapping her arms around Josh's neck.
Josh shook his head.
"Please," Maya tried, batting her eyes as pitifully as she possibly could. When she realised that wasn't working, she decided to try a different option. Maya pulled Josh a little closer to her and began gently placing kisses along his jaw and down his neck.
"Mmm," Josh breathed, his eyes closing at Maya's contact.
Maya moved her hands to Josh's hair, gently tugging at his dark locks as she continued to tease him with kisses.
Josh pulled Maya's body even closer to him, his hands moving down her body, his lips connecting with any bare skin of hers he had access to. He gently repositioned the two of them, pulling Maya on top of him, his hands wrapping in her hair this time as he brought her face down to his, their lips colliding with passion. "Happy birthday," he said into their kiss. This wasn't going to be a quick one, Josh was going to take his time, he was going to let Maya take her time, they had the entire day, hell the entire weekend, and he wanted nothing more than for Maya to enjoy every moment.
-/-/-
A smile spread across Maya's face as she realised where she and Josh were going for the weekend. "Josh," she whispered gently squeezing his hand.
Josh glanced over at Maya. "Is this okay?" He asked.
Maya leaned over kissing Josh's cheek, "It's perfect."
The infamous Mount Sun Lodge. This place was significant for the couple; it was where Josh and Maya first collectively admitted their feelings for each other when they were teenagers, it was where they spent their first weekend away together, the first time they finally slept together. Big moments happened here. Josh's stomach was in knots knowing he was going to add to that list with this weekend.
Maya had no idea the importance of this weekend, other than it being her birthday. She was excited to spend some time away from the city alone with Josh. The holidays were great, but it had been forever since the two of them were able to just be alone together.
Josh carried his and Maya's bag on his shoulder as the two walked hand in hand into the familiar lodge entrance.
Maya inhaled deeply. "This place has not changed," she smiled.
Josh kissed the top of Maya's head as they walked to the counter to check in.
"Josh," the man behind the counter smiled.
"Evan," Josh smiled back. "How've you been?"
Evan nodded. "Good, busy."
"That's great, man." Josh nodded.
"I've got you guys for the next three days, right?"
"Yep," Josh said as he pulled his wallet out of his pocket.
"Maya," Evan nodded toward her.
"Evan," Maya smiled sweetly.
"How's Riley?" Evan raised his eyebrow.
"Married," Maya nodded.
Evan raised his left hand in the air. "Me too, I was just checking," he laughed.
"You got any Sherpa-ing happening this weekend?" Maya asked.
Evan ran Josh's card, nodding at Maya's question, "We've got a couple of things going on this weekend."
Josh smiled to himself. He had already called and told Evan his plans for this weekend, asking for his help with a few things.
"Alright, you guys are good to go. Have a good weekend,"
Maya smiled.
"Thanks," Josh said with a slight nod Evan's direction.
Josh sat the bags down on the bed, turning to Maya, "So, what do you want to do today, beautiful?"
Maya felt her cheeks blush, she stood on her tip-toes and wrapped her arms around Josh's neck. She shook her head slightly, "Anything with you,"
Josh leaned down kissing Maya sweetly. "Well, I happen to know of an evening hike if you're up for it?"
Maya pulled her brows together and nodded, "Absolutely."
Josh held Maya's face in his hands, "How did I get so lucky?" he asked in awe of the woman in front of him. She continually took his breath away, both with her beauty, but also with who she was as a person; Maya was always down for an adventure, he couldn't remember a time she had ever said no to something. She kept his life alight and new, all the while providing him the most warming sense of stability.
As it was Friday, there weren't too many people at the Lodge yet, so Maya and Josh practically had the place to themselves. The sun was setting, as Josh and Maya left for their hike, their hands interlaced every step of the way.
"This is my favorite time of the day," Maya smiled taking in the golden hues splatter across every inch of the woods.
Josh smiled down at Maya.
"I just want to exist here forever," she sighed contently. She looked up at Josh and smiled, "Thank you,"
Josh shook his head, "For what?" he asked.
"This weekend, for knowing me so well. There's literally nothing I would rather be doing for my birthday,"
Josh wrapped his arm around Maya's waist, bringing her body closer to him. He looked off into the distance, the two standing atop one of the many mountains near the Lodge. "You make life so easy, Maya. Thank you."
Maya laid her head on Josh's chest. She wanted to capture every second of this moment, everything she was feeling, everything she was seeing, everything Josh was saying. "I love you," she whispered.
"God I love you too," Josh breathed and then kissed the top of Maya's head. "I love you too," he repeated.
-/-/-
"Maya," Josh said slowly, grabbing her hands in his.
Maya looked up at Josh, her head tilted slightly. "Josh…"
"I have one more surprise for you."
"Josh," Maya laughed shaking her head. "This was already more than enough." She smiled, pulling her hands free from Josh's and cupping his face, holding his gaze lovingly.
"God," Josh breathed.
Maya felt her cheeks blush.
"If I could give you the whole world, Maya Hart…" Josh was completely mesmerized by every inch of the woman in front of him. Her gentle eyes pulling Josh into her so intensely that he almost lost track of what he was supposed to be doing. "Come with me," He whispered, extending his hand toward Maya.
Maya still looked confused, but she placed her hand in Josh's completely trusting him.
Josh led Maya downstairs, taking her to the very familiar place in front of the fireplace of the lobby.
It was getting late, and the lobby was empty. Josh and Maya were alone, sitting together as they had many years ago, but this time, Josh had Maya pulled close to him, her head laying on his shoulder.
"Can we just stay here forever?" Maya asked for probably the tenth time in the past three days.
"Yes." Josh didn't miss a beat and he placed a gentle kiss on the top of Maya's head.
Maya closed her eyes and inhaled deeply. This was perfection to her. It didn't matter where they were, or what they were doing, Maya felt like her life was complete when she was wrapped in Josh's arms, his lips lovingly placed on her.
"This is where I fell in love with you," Josh told Maya, his arm still wrapped around her.
Maya nuzzled into Josh even deeper. "Oh yeah?"
"Mhmm." Josh nodded. "Twice."
Maya sat up and turned her head to look at her boyfriend. "Twice?" She asked.
Josh nodded. "Once, when you were in high school. God," Josh started as he remembered that day. "You were so persistent," he laughed.
Maya pulled her brows together, "Hey! I like to think I was just very sure of what I wanted in life."
Josh smiled, "That too."
Maya playfully hit Josh's arm with the back of her hand. She shook her head and curled back into Josh, laying her head on him once again.
"It killed me… knowing how I felt, but knowing I had to just watch you… wait for you."
"Play the long game," Maya said in a sing-song voice, a smile painted across her face.
"Play the long game," Josh nodded. "And then, what was that, three, four years ago, we came back up here. Me and you, finally adults, finally able to be together. I never loved you more than I did that weekend…"
"Aww, Josh," Maya smiled; she seldom heard Josh talk like this, and her heart swelled listening to him share his feelings with her. She curled into Josh even more, closing her eyes and breathing his scent in deeply.
"Hey, I need to ask you something," Josh finally broke their perfectly comfortable silence.
Maya lifted her head off Josh's shoulder, her eyes blinking open as she looked up at him, her eyebrows raised, ready for his question. "Okay…"
Josh grabbed both of Maya's hands in his and smoothly slid onto his knee in front of her.
Maya's eyes grew realizing what Josh was doing, "Josh…" Her voice was shaking.
"Maya." Josh's voice was strong and calm; the complete opposite of Maya's right now. "I want to stay here forever," He repeated the words Maya had just said moments ago. "I want to stay here with you forever."
Maya pressed her lips together, her eyes brimming with tears as she listened to the words her heart felt every single day with Josh.
"I want to spend every day with you. I want you to be next to me through every moment of my life, and I want to be there for every moment of yours. I want it to be us, no matter what." Josh said as he pulled the small box out of his pocket.
A slight whimper escaped Maya's lips hearing those words; those three words that held so much meaning for the two of them. Her hands were shaking, she barely noticed the movement Josh was making, her eyes completely engulfed in his.
Josh looked down momentarily, opening the lid to the ring box. He blinked up, his eyes grasping onto Maya's once again. "Marry me, Maya?" he requested.
Maya's pressed lips curled into a smile that reached her eyes, tears finally sliding down her cheeks. "Josh," she breathed.
Josh's chest was rising and falling heavily, and he finally realized how nervous he actually was.
"Of course," Maya laughed through her tears. Her hands immediately went to Josh's face, pulling him to her, crashing their lips together as they both stood up. Maya eventually pulled back, tears still falling freely from her eyes, "Are you kidding me?" She asked shaking her head.
Josh finally grabbed Maya's hand and slid the ring on her finger. He brought her hand to his lips, kissing it gently. "I love you, Maya Hart."
Maya threw her arms around Josh's neck, "And I love you, Josh." She laughed again, extending her hand behind Josh, admiring the new jewelry on her finger. "You're crazy," Maya said shaking her head.
"Do you like it…?" Josh asked, never taking his off Maya's face. He couldn't describe the look on her face right now, but he never wanted to forget it, he never wanted this moment to end.
Maya's eyes shifted back to Josh's, "I love it."
Josh could hear the honesty in Maya's voice, and it made his heart soar. "I love you," he said once again before pulling Maya close to him, their lips coming together with intensity.
Maya immediately buried her fingers in Josh's hair, deepening their kiss without thinking.
"Mmm," a guttural moan slipped from Josh's throat feeling Maya's hands in his hair as her tongue made its way into his mouth. He pulled back ever so slightly, "Upstairs," he whispered.
Maya practically yelped as Josh lifted her and placed her on the bed, excitement pulsing through her body. Every time Josh touched her, Maya felt electricity sparking inside of her and she yearned for more. And more was exactly what she was getting tonight. Maya reached for the hem of Josh's shirt, swiftly pulling it over his head, Josh immediately doing the same to Maya's shirt.
Josh paused, holding Maya's face in his hands, both of their chests heaving, loss of breath mixed with intense desire for the other setting every inch of them on fire. His heart was racing; she said yes. Josh was the luckiest guy in the world right now, this beautiful woman in front of him said she would spend the rest of her life with him.
Maya smiled up at Josh, noticing him getting lost in his thoughts, "You're crazy," She repeated with a laugh shaking her head.
"You're beautiful." Josh replied, immediately crashing his lips back into hers.
Maya smiled into the kiss, her hands running up and down Josh's bare back, her nails leaving slight red streaks. "Mmm," She moaned as Josh lowered his hips, putting weight between the two of them. Maya's hands had a new mission now and she blindly began undoing the belt clasped around Josh's waist as Josh's hands aptly unclasped Maya's bra.
"Fuck," Maya cursed, pulling away from Josh's lips, still struggling with the waist of his pants.
Josh continued to kiss down Maya's neck, placing soft kisses across her collarbone, his hands now making their way to her pants.
"Mmm," Maya smiled successfully as she finally got Josh's pants undone and slacked.
Josh looked back up at Maya, and for he was sure the ten thousandth time that evening, he whispered to her, "I love you,"
Maya smiled, rolling her head to the side, "I love you," She whispered back and pulled Josh to her once again, her hands tangling in Josh's hair, her leg wrapping around his waist.
The following week came and went and it took everything in Maya to not call her best friend and tell her everything that happened over her birthday, but she and Josh were having Riley and Farkle over for dinner Friday night and they were going to tell them in person then.
"So you're going to cook dinner, right?" Maya asked as she gathered her things for work Friday morning.
"Yes," Josh replied calmly.
"What are you going to make?" Maya sounded nervous; it was just Riley and Farkle.
"Maya." Josh said placing his hands on Maya's shoulders. "What's got you so worked up?"
Maya looked up at Josh, she was worked up, this was a big deal.
"It's just Riley and Farkle."
"She's my best friend."
Josh shrugged, "She's my niece."
Maya closed her eyes and exhaled.
"Go to work. Don't worry about it, it's going to be fine." Josh said placing a kiss on Maya's forehead.
Josh still managed to only have half days on Fridays, and Maya was still incredibly envious of him. But today, he would be spending that extra time prepping for dinner with his niece and her husband. Riley and Farkle finally married last summer, and it was completely Riley and Farkle. Cory was a complete mess, Auggie brought his new girlfriend and Amy couldn't have been more proud to see her granddaughter get married.
Maya walked into the apartment after 5 that evening, and she almost immediately stopped in her tracks. "Oh my God," She breathed deeply. "It smells so good."
"Thank you," Josh acknowledged from the kitchen.
Maya walked over to Josh, raising to her tiptoes giving him a sweet kiss. "Hi," she smiled.
"How was your day?" Josh asked.
"Not bad. Yours?"
"Good. Dinner should be ready in about an hour."
Maya looked around the kitchen, "What are you making?" She asked, her brows pulled together.
"Pot pies," Josh said with a smile.
"Ohh," Maya's eyes grew and she walked to the oven, going to open the door.
"No way!" Josh stopped Maya from opening the oven. "Go change. Leave the things in the kitchen alone."
Maya tucked a loose piece of hair behind her ear. "Fine. Riley and Farkle will be here in like… half an hour," Maya said checking her watch.
"Okay, relax," Josh told Maya once again kissing her forehead.
Maya pouted a little under Josh's touch, eliciting a slight laugh from the brunette.
"I don't know why you're so nervous," He shook his head as Maya walked back to the bedroom.
Riley and Farkle showed up early, as always and Josh was quick to pour everyone a glass of wine. He knew if nothing else, Maya could use one.
"So, how have you guys been?" Riley asked looking between Josh and Maya.
Maya looked up at Josh, his arm draped around her on the couch, she smiled up at him. "Good," she whispered.
Riley raised an eyebrow, Maya had yet to pull her eyes away from Josh. She looked at Farkle, he had a smile on his face seeing his friend so happy.
"How've you guys been?" Josh finally asked in return.
Farkle nodded. "Great. Busy, the holidays, man," he said rolling his eyes slightly.
Josh nodded in agreeance.
"What'd you do for your birthday, Maya?" Riley asked tilting her head to the side.
"Josh actually planned this great weekend up at the Lodge,"
"Oh yeah? How was that?"
Maya smiled brightly, "Perfect." She laid her head on Josh's shoulder remembering last weekend.
Josh nodded slightly to Maya as she looked up at him once again.
"What is going on?!" Riley finally asked.
Maya bit her bottom lip as she turned and looked at her best friend. "So… last weekend we went up to the Lodge, ya know,"
"Okay…" Riley was clueless. Farkle wrapped his arm around her, thinking he was picking up what Josh and Maya were getting at.
"Riles," Maya started, "Josh asked me to marry him," she smiled.
"What?!" Riley practically yelled as she jumped up from her seat.
Maya nodded pulling her arm from around Josh's waist, holding her hand out for Riley to finally see the ring sitting on her left hand.
"You didn't ask me first?!" Riley yelled at her Uncle as she reached for Maya's hand.
Maya and Josh both laughed. "Was I supposed to?" Josh asked.
"I mean… she's my best friend!"
Josh raised his eyebrow, "Yeah, and now, she's my fiance,"
Maya blushed at name. She still wasn't used to that one yet.
"Congratulations, you guys," Farkle finally said, standing up walking toward the couple.
"Thank you," Josh nodded.
"Yeah, yeah," Riley waved her hand to her Uncle. She pulled Maya into a hug, "Congratulations, Maya," she whispered as she hugged her tightly.
"Thank you, Riles," Maya smiled into the hug, feeling relieved to have finally told her best friend.
"We have so much to do." RIley's eyes were wide as she held Maya arms length away.
Maya's eyes grew and her brows furrowed as a nervous smile painted across her face. "Yeah," she breathed. Maya looked at Josh for help, he was laughing, shaking his head, this was all them.
-/-/-
Winter was finally coming to an end, the beginning of Spring teasing everyone with warmer temperatures during the day, with cool nights still sneaking their way in regularly. The countdown was on to get everything finalized for Josh and Maya's wedding, Riley staying in near constant contact with Maya helping her plan every little detail. It was exactly how Riley's wedding planning went last year, and Maya swore to herself she would never do that to herself, and yet… here she was.
Maya exhaled heavily as she laid on the couch placing her head in Josh's lap.
"Long day?" Josh asked without looking up from the book he was reading.
"Exhausting. What if we just went to the courthouse, screw all this pomp and circumstance."
That got Josh's attention. "Really?" he asked looking down at Maya.
Maya shrugged, "I mean, none of that is what I care about… I just want to be with you."
"Well…" Josh sat up straighter, closing his book. "Babe, we can do whatever you want to do… Is that what you want to do?"
Maya pouted, "I don't know. It's just so stressful."
"Isn't Riley helping you? Didn't she just do this?"
"Right?!" Maya exclaimed throwing her hands in the air. She shook her head, "I'm not doing this for the next nine months."
Josh laughed and began running his hands through Maya's hair that was sprawled out across his lap. "Don't stress yourself out about it, kid."
Maya closed her eyes, immediately relaxing under Josh's touch. "You just keep doing that and I'll be game for whatever," she practically moaned.
Josh laughed. "What do you want, Maya?" He asked as he continued to play with Maya's hair.
"Mmm…" Maya thought about the question. "Honestly… nothing too big. My mom, Shawn. Your mom, Riles and Farkle, your brothers and sister… what more do we need?"
Josh smiled, "It helps that we've kept it all in the family,"
Maya scrunched her nose and shook her head. "Don't say that,"
Josh laughed, "You know what I mean,"
"I was thinking early December…"
"Yeah?" Josh asked.
"Mhmm…" Maya breathed deeply once again. "And if there's what, twelve of us, food should be easy enough."
"And what kind of food do you want?"
"Grilled cheese," Maya smiled, her eyes closed and eyebrows raised at the thought.
Josh laughed. "Okay,"
"What about you?" Maya asked.
"I mean… probably some… I don't know, ham or roast or something too…"
Maya nodded, "Sure, you pick that - -hey yeah! You just decide on food and drinks and all that!"
Josh laughed. "I'll let you sleep on that one,"
Maya sat up, "No, I'm serious! You should do that part. I'll get everything else together. You're the one who cares way more about food! Ah, this just got so much easier." She smiled, incredibly happy with herself.
"Okay, well good." Josh smiled. "Feel better?"
Maya leaned toward the brunette and kissed him sweetly. "Much. Thank you."
Josh's eyes locked onto Maya's, "Of course,"
"Now," Maya smiled laying back down. "Continue," She said fluffing her hair out for Josh to keep running his hands through.
"Only for you," Josh smiled himself seeing relaxation wash over Maya once again. He would do anything to make this woman's life easier; she hardly even had to ask. Josh got completely lost in his ministrations, his eyes glued on the beautiful girl he so luckily got to call his own, he almost didn't notice when he lured her right to sleep. If every day ended like this, Josh knew he would die a happy man.
Spring finally dried into the warmth only summer in New York could bring. The city that never slept seemed to come even more alive in the summer; holidays sparking the life into everyone even more. Josh and Maya, however, were heading out Thursday morning for a weekend with their friends and family to celebrate the 4th of July away from the lights and sounds of the City.
"I am so ready for this weekend!" Maya practically bounced as she sat on her knees on the bed.
"Yeah?" Josh laughed grabbing clothes out of his drawers, packing his bag.
"Yes! It's the 4th of July, Matthews! Booze, swimming, fireworks, food!"
"And…" Josh led, waiting for Maya's final comment.
"Riley!" Maya cheered.
"There it is." Josh laughed.
Work and life seemed to continually get in the way of Maya and Riley's relationship lately. It had been months since the girls had been together, and even then Maya was beyond stressed trying to wrap her head around wedding details. This weekend was going to involve none of that. All fun, no stress.
A wriley smile creeped across Maya's face as she thought about the scheming she and Riley would undoubtedly get into this weekend. It had been far too long since they had a fun weekend together.
"You know you two are grown-ass adults, now, right?"
Maya pulled her eyebrows together. "And that matters because…? Riley and Maya will scheme for life, my love." she told Josh sitting up taller on her knees.
Josh leaned down and placed a kiss on Maya's lips. "And that is just one of the reasons I love you," He smiled. "Are you ready?" He asked zipping up his bag.
"Yep!" Maya bounced off the bed. "Let's go!"
"Settle down," Josh laughed. "We've got a day's-drive ahead of us,"
Maya eyes glanced up, "Know what we haven't done as fiances yet?"
Josh raised an eyebrow.
Maya looked at the brunette, a sly smile painted across her face.
"Alright, let's go!" Josh said with urgency as he grabbed his and Maya's bag swiftly.
Maya tossed her head back with laughter. "You know we're grown-ass adults, Matthews," she mocked his earlier comment.
Josh grabbed Maya's hand without saying a word and led her out of the bedroom.
Maya laughed knowing that the hint toward some adult fun on the road was more than exciting her fiance.
As the two made it to the front door, Josh dropped the bags he was holding and quickly spun Maya around facing him, her back against the door. This was a familiar spot for the two, they were experts at riling each other up just before heading out; it kept their sexual tension high throughout their time away, making every event heightened foreplay.
Maya laughed into the kiss Josh passionately placed on her lips.
"God, woman," Josh pulled back breathing heavily, Maya's hands between his hands, a satisfied smile spread across her face. "Do you know what you do to me?" He asked, his eyes dark with desire, locked onto Maya's.
Maya leaned onto her tiptoes, placing a quick kiss on Josh's cheek. "Let's go, we've got a long drive,"
It was late afternoon by the time Josh and Maya made it to the beach house. Cory and Topanga were already there with Amy. Auggie and his girlfriend were there as well. Maya and Josh, usually the last ones to things, were surprised that they beat Riley and Farkle.
"My brotha!" Cory greeted Josh as he walked into the beach house, Maya's hand clasped in his.
"My brotha," Josh smiled back.
"My brotha!" Maya teased, a huge smile painted across her face.
Cory pointed at the blonde. "No," he said with a shake of his head.
Maya scrunched her nose, "You're gonna have to get used to that,"
Cory waved his hand in the air, "Yeah, yeah,"
Josh leaned down and placed a quick kiss on Maya's lips.
"Your room is down the hall," Cory pointed.
Josh and Maya walked down the hall, bags in hand.
"You're going to give him a hard time forever, aren't you?" Josh asked.
Maya smiled up at him, "It's what I do."
"And to think, Riley's not even here yet," Josh teased.
Maya made a face at him, shaking her head slightly.
"I love you," Josh smiled kissing Maya's forehead.
"I know," Maya smiled, turning on her toes, heading for the door.
"Hey," Josh pouted, grabbing Maya's hand.
"Oh, you know I love you," Maya smiled slinking her fingers in between Josh's. "Come on, beer, beach, let's go," she nodded toward the door.
"Maya!" Topanga smiled seeing Josh and Maya walk through the house.
Maya hugged Topanga tightly.
"How are you?" Topanga asked pulling back, rubbing Maya's shoulders, taking in the blonde girl in front of her.
"Good. How're you?" Maya smiled.
"Better now that we're here for the week,"
"Ah, I'm so jealous, a whole week?" Maya asked.
Topanga nodded excitedly. "I'm happy everyone could make it for the weekend, though!"
"Me too. Speaking of, where's Riley? They're always here before us,"
Topanga shrugged, "I don't know, they said they were on the way earlier. Long drive,"
Maya nodded.
"Hey babe," Josh got Maya's attention. She turned to him and smiled as he extended a beer her direction.
"I love you," she smiled taking the bottle from Josh.
"I know," Josh teased Maya back with her words from earlier.
"Do you need any help with anything?" Maya redirected her attention to Topanga.
"I think I'm good for now. I'll let you know," she winked. "You guys go outside, enjoy the weather, it's beautiful out there. Auggie and Brooke are out there too,"
Josh smiled at Topanga, he extended his hand toward Maya and the two headed out to the back deck.
"My boy!" Amy smiled as Josh and Maya walked outside.
"Ma," Josh walked over to his mother gently embracing her. Amy was getting older, and Josh might have hated to admit it, but she was.
"How are you? You look good,"
Josh nodded.
"Are you old enough to be playing with this thing?" Maya asked walking up to Auggie at the grill.
Auggie smiled hearing the familiar voice, "Are you tall enough?" he teased right back.
"Funny," Maya smiled.
"Hi, Maya," Auggie wrapped his arm around Maya's neck, pulling her into a hug. "How've you been?"
Maya nodded, "Good, you?"
Auggie shrugged, "Not bad,"
"Where's your girl?" Maya asked looking around.
"Oh, Grandma's got her doing something," he shrugged.
"Poor thing," Maya raised an eyebrow.
"I still don't know how you've avoided that with her,"
"Um, because I'm her favorite," Maya said like it was obvious.
"Yeah, that's it," Auggie laughed.
Maya shrugged, taking a drink of her beer, "Doesn't matter," she whispered, "I win."
"That you do, Hart." Auggie nodded, redirecting his attention to the grill. "I'm grilling chicken and burgers for dinner, you hungry?"
"Duh," Maya nodded. She might have given Auggie a hard time, but he was actually a really good cook. These Matthews boys knew their way around a kitchen; she was looking forward to Auggie's dinner.
"Maya!" Amy called from across the deck.
"Oh, you're being summoned," Auggie smiled.
Maya narrowed her eyes and ruffled Auggie's hair. She smiled as she walked over to Amy and Josh. "Hi, how are you?" She asked hugging Josh's mom.
"Oh, I'm wonderful, honey, how are you?"
Maya nodded, "I'm good," she smiled.
"Come sit with me, let the boys grill,"
"Okay," Maya laughed. "Do you want a beer or a glass of wine or anything?"
"Oh, yes. Josh, go grab your mother a Corona, would you?"
Josh laughed and walked into the house doing what his mother asked.
Amy held Maya's hand in hers. "How are things?" she asked.
"Busy," Maya smiled honestly. "It's nice to get away for the weekend."
"I bet, you've got a big year this year,"
Maya nodded and took a drink of her beer.
"Just enjoy the moment, Maya. It'll be gone before you know it,"
Josh walked out with two fresh beers in his hand, one for Amy and a fresh one for Maya.
Maya smiled up at him, "Thank you," she whispered; he knew her so well.
Josh leaned down and kissed the top of Maya's head, "Love you,"
Maya's eyes closed at his contact, "Love you," she whispered back and felt Amy squeeze her hand gently.
Josh slipped away walking over to greet Auggie.
Amy looked over at Maya, "How are you, really?" she asked.
Maya raised her eyebrows at Amy's question.
"I know the holidays were hard on you, but you're such a tough girl - -one of the things I love the most about you," Amy said squeezing Maya's hand again. "It's only been a year, Maya,"
Maya felt her stomach drop and her breath hitch, she pressed her lips together in a tight smile and shrugged her shoulders slightly. "Some days are really hard. Stuff like this is hard, thinking about… what it would've been like,"
Amy nodded listening intently.
"But, I stay really busy, and Josh is amazing, and… there's nothing that I can do to change things. Ya know?"
"I do. After Alen passed…" she let her words hang in the air.
Maya nodded, Amy did understand.
"These are the hardest things sometimes," Amy nodded, agreeing with Maya, "being around the family and thinking how differently things could have been… but they're also the best things sometimes. Being around these people, your family, it heals you."
Maya laid her head on Amy's shoulder. "Thank you," she whispered.
Amy brushed Maya's hair gently.
Topanga stepped outside, a tray of hamburger meat in her hands for Auggie to start grilling up. "How come she was never that sweet to me?!" She complained looking at Amy and Maya.
Auggie and Josh glanced behind them, also taking in the two women on the opposite side of the deck.
"Maya said it's because she's Grandma's favorite," Auggie shrugged.
Josh laughed, "She wishes. It's because I'm her favorite, Maya gets Ma's love by default,"
Topanga rolled her eyes, "Ridiculous,"
"Hey, who's your favorite, Mom?" Auggie asked.
"I don't have a favorite!" Topanga exclaimed. "Mothers don't have favorites,"
Josh crossed his arms raising an eyebrow at his sister-in-law. "Mine does," he said with an air of cockiness to him as he nodded back toward Amy.
"Fix dinner," Topanga shook her head at the boys.
"Hello?!" Riley asked stepping into the seemingly empty house.
"Riley!" Topanga practically lit up seeing her daughter.
Auggie glanced up at Josh knowingly, "Favorite,"
Josh nodded in agreeance.
Maya sat up hearing her best friend.
Amy nodded, "Go on,"
"Riles!" Maya yelled walking toward the house.
"Peaches?!" Riley squealed running past her mother to embrace Maya in a tight hug.
Topanga threw her hands up, rolling her eyes once again. "Forget it," she said and walked back outside.
"I've missed you, buddy!"
"I've missed you too," Riley smiled.
"How the hell did we beat you guys here?" Maya asked Farkle confused.
Farkle glanced at Riley then back to Maya. He shrugged.
Maya furrowed her brow at Farkle's odd reaction. "Ooookay, anyway, I think you guys are across the hall from us," she nodded in the direction of her and Josh's room. "Everyone is outside, the boys are grilling,"
Riley nodded, "Perfect," she smiled.
"I'll go put this stuff up," Farkle assured his wife. "Go on," he nodded toward the back door.
"You need a beer," Maya said pointedly, turning toward the kitchen. It was practically the rule of the beach house; if you were there, you had to have a beer in your hand.
"Um…" Riley said biting her bottom lip slightly.
Maya immediately stopped in her tracks, she turned around to face Riley slowly. "Riles…"
Riley raised her eyebrows, shrugging slightly. "You guys might have beat us up here because we had to stop twelve times so I could puke,"
"Riles…" Maya repeated stepping closer to her best friend, her eyes wide.
"I wasn't sure how to tell you," Riley was shaking her head rapidly.
Tears were brimming Maya's blue eyes as she grabbed Riley's hands in her own.
"Please don't hate me," Riley breathed.
"Hate you?" Maya asked confused.
Riley shrugged, her eyes glued to Maya's, "I know… I mean…" she struggled to find the right words.
Maya closed her eyes and pulled Riley into another tight embrace. "I am so happy for you, Riley," she whispered. "You're going to be the best mom,"
Riley exhaled heavily hearing the words coming from Maya's mouth. She was worried sick about telling her, probably part of the reason she and Farkle had to stop so many times on their drive up.
"How far along are you?"
"Um, like, 17 weeks. I'm due the beginning of January," Riley said raising an eyebrow at Maya.
Maya's eyes lit up. "Stop it, please have this baby on my birthday,"
Riley laughed shaking her head slightly.
"Oh you're so gonna have a little Maya to deal with," Maya smiled brightly. "Poor you and Farkle,"
"You tell her?" Farkle asked walking back into the kitchen.
"You know you're child is going to be born on my birthday, right?" Maya turned to Farkle stating her new favorite fact.
Farkle laughed, "Oh God,"
Maya quickly pulled Farkle into a hug as well, "I'm so happy for you two,"
"Yeah?" Farkle asked cautiously.
"Of course!" Maya chirped. "Have you guys told anyone yet?"
Riley nodded, "My parents know,"
Maya narrowed her eyes, "I wasn't the first person you told?"
"Maya, I know it's been a year, but - -"
It finally hit Maya, Topanga, Cory, Amy, everyone was checking in with her since the moment she and Josh walked through the door. They all knew. "Riley, I'm fine, I'm happy for you," she said with a genuine smile on her face. "So come on, your brother is grilling,"
Maya laid curled up against Josh, her head on his chest late that night. Everyone had finally gone to bed, full of food and beer. Maya couldn't sleep, though.
Josh's hand continually ran through Maya's long hair and down her back soothingly.
Maya felt like her heart was made of lead and was making a permanent residence in her stomach. "I am happy for her," Maya's voice was barely audible.
"I know," Josh whispered with a nod.
"Then why does this hurt so bad?" She asked, a tear slipping down her face.
"Maya, a year isn't that long." Josh tried to reassure his finace. "You lost your child… and now your best friend is pregnant, it's okay for this to be hard."
"Everyone thinks I'm going to fall apart. I don't want to fall apart."
Josh scooted Maya closed to him, holding her tightly. His heart was breaking for her right now, but he knew there wasn't much he could do or say to make this better.
"This is about Riley, I don't want this time for her to be tainted by me,"
Josh kissed the top of Maya's head, his lips lingering as his eyes closed. "Nothing," he stated firmly, "Is tainted by you."
Maya nuzzled herself against Josh even closer.
"It's okay to be happy and sad, Maya,"
Maya nodded softly. "I think a little part of me will always be sad…"
Josh nodded, "I know,"
Maya looked up at Josh, "I'm sorry," she whispered.
"Maya, a little part of me will always be sad too. And another part of me will be sad because you're sad, and that's okay. It's part of who we are now. Am I happy for Riley? Absolutely. Will it hurt to hold that baby and watch it grow up? Like hell. But those things aren't mutually exclusive. They both exist in me alongside each other. And they'll exist alongside each other in you too."
Maya shook her head slightly. "How did I get so lucky to have you in my life?"
Josh smiled down at the blonde in his arms, "Hey, that's my line."
Maya looked up at Josh and smiled softly. "I love you,"
Josh kissed her forehead gently, "I love you,"
Maya took a deep breath. "Did they tell you she's due on my birthday?"
Josh's eyes grew, "Is she really?!"
Maya shrugged, "I mean, she said the first week in January, so basically, yes."
Josh laughed, "God help them,"
"Hey!" Maya smiled and playfully hit Josh's chest.
"Alright, we're going to get fireworks, you guys… I don't know, do what you girls do," Josh shrugged.
Cory, Auggie, Farkle and Josh were suddenly 14 year old boys again, all itching to spend way too much money on things they were going to blow up in mere seconds, but it was the 4th of July and the girls knew there was no talking them out of it.
Maya rolled her eyes and waved her hand in Josh's direction, "Have fun," she laughed. She was sitting on the table top of the picnic table outside on the back deck, Riley sitting on the bench between her legs.
Riley closed her eyes as she felt Maya's hands wrap around strands of her dark hair, pulling slightly into beginning sections of braids.
"You know, you're going to need to learn how to do this," Maya said as her hands aptly manipulated Riley's hair.
"Mmm," Riley shrugged. "I can always just call you,"
Maya laughed, "Yes you can,"
"How did you never learn to braid?" Topanga asked looking over at her daughter and her best friend.
Riley shot her mother a quick look.
"Riley Minkus!" Maya gasped.
"You're so much better at it than me Maya," Riley whined tilting her head up looking up at her friend, a small pout on her lips.
"Mhmm," Maya raised an eyebrow.
"So what's on the agenda today, girls?" Amy asked joining the girls outside.
"Mmm, more of this," Riley smiled looking out at the ocean in front of her.
"And more of this," Maya said raising her bottle in the air.
"And more of this," Brooke chimed in carrying out a small tray of food.
"Oh, I agree, more of that," Riley pointed, motioning for Auggie's girlfriend to bring the tray of food over to her.
"The boys went to get fireworks. So I'm sure they'll be up all night doing that," Topanga told Amy shaking her head slightly.
"Then I'm with Maya, more of this," Amy added raising her glass of wine.
Maya nodded in Amy's direction, "I knew I liked you,"
The girls were right; the boys were gone for the better part of two hours and came back with more fireworks than any of them needed.
"Think you got enough, there, Matthews?" Maya laughed, seeing Josh's arms full of fireworks.
Josh smiled brightly. "There's more in the car," he said placing a quick kiss on Maya's cheek.
"What?!" Maya laughed. She followed Josh back out to the car, seeing the entire trunk loaded down with every kind of imaginable firework. "How much money did you guys waste on all of this?"
"Waste?" Josh asked and shook his head, "None."
Maya rolled her eyes, "Whatever," she laughed and helped carry the rest of the fireworks to the house.
"Hey," Josh gently grabbed Maya's hand turning her to face him. "You look beautiful,"
Maya tilted her head and smiled, "Thank you. I still think you're ridiculous, but thank you,"
Josh's eyes grew in excitement, "Oh, you have no idea."
Night finally came, the guys anxiously awaiting the darkness, itching to begin setting off fireworks. Riley had fallen asleep in the living room waiting for the festivities to start, no one bothering her, knowing she was more than tired.
Maya went inside to grab another beer, Riley catching her eye asleep on the couch. Maya smiled at her best friend as she sat on the table in front of her. "Hey, Riles," she whispered.
"Peaches," Riley almost immediately mumbled back.
"Our crazy boys are about to start shooting off the fireworks,"
"Good for them," Riley said as she curled deeper into the couch.
Maya laughed, "You don't want to come watch them literally blow up hundreds of dollars?"
Riley blinked her eyes open, immediately greeted with a smiling Maya.
"Come on," Maya nodded, "you know it's going to wake you up anyway," she said extending her hand.
Riley grabbed Maya's hand as she pulled her up from the couch.
The girls walked out to the back deck, their arms linked. The boys were already set up in the sand, ready for the girls to get set.
Riley's eyes grew seeing the massive amount of fireworks on the beach. "How are we related to these people?" she asked.
Topanga wrapped her arm around her daughter, and smiled over at Maya, "It's best you just embrace it, girls."
Maya laughed and took a drink of her beer. "Must be genetic,"
"Oh God," Riley's eyes grew as her hand went to her stomach, "Please be normal," she whispered.
"Aw, Riles, that sweet thing doesn't stand a chance," Maya smiled brightly as she wrapped her arm around Riley's neck. "That's like 100% of its genes out here right now,"
"You girls ready?!" Josh yelled from down at the beach.
Maya gave a thumbs up, signaling to the guys to go ahead and start the show.
And that's exactly what it was; the boys were set on putting on a show for the girls. Each new firework louder and bigger than the one before it. They guys yelling as each one exploded loudly above them, beers continually in the air cheering for themselves. They would occasionally look over at the deck, checking to see how the girls were reacting. Each time one of the guys looked over at them, the girls would applaud and cheer, boosting their already inflated egos. The boys were having fun, and the girls liked seeing them enjoy themselves.
It was well past midnight by the time the guys had gotten through all the fireworks, their excitement still soaring. Amy had long ago gone to bed, and Riley sat with her head in Maya's lap, her eyes closed more than they were open with every blink, Maya running her hands through Riley's hair soothingly.
"Ah! Man, that was so fun!" Josh exclaimed walking up the steps to the deck.
"So fun," Maya nodded. "You guys did a great job, babe," she smiled.
Josh leaned down and placed a quick kiss on Maya's lips, his body still pumping with adrenaline.
"Great job," Riley mumbled holding a thumbs up in the air.
Josh ruffled Riley's hair, "Thanks Riley. You should go to bed," he laughed.
"Supportive wife. Watching fireworks." she pointed blindly toward the sky.
"Come on, supportive wife, we're done," Farkle smiled. "Let's go to bed,"
"Oh thank God," Riley yawned as she sat up, her eyes still closed.
"You ready to go to bed too?" Josh asked Maya.
Maya scrunched her nose and nodded slightly.
"Come on," Josh extended his hand.
Maya grabbed Josh's hand and practically jumped off the top of the table.
Josh couldn't take his eyes off Maya as she untied her swimsuit top, slipping it over the top of her head. "Hey," he whispered, pulling Maya's attention to him.
"Hey," she smiled at him.
"Come here," Josh whispered, pulling Maya to him, his hands around her bare waist.
Maya's smile grew, knowing Josh's moves by now. "We can't, everyone's right here," she laughed as Josh's lips made contact with the bare skin of her neck and down to her collarbone.
"Then we'll just have to be very quiet," Josh whispered, his lips right at Maya's ears.
Josh's words sent chills down Maya's spine, and she was immediately under his spell.
Josh carefully walked Maya back, gently laying her on the bed, his body towering above her.
"Mmm," Maya moaned as Josh's hand slipped between their hips.
"Shhh," Josh reminded her, his hand continuing on its mission.
Maya pulled Josh's head closer to her, bringing their lips together. She moaned into his mouth as Josh's fingers slipped into her. "Josh," she breathed, wrapping her arms tighter around Josh, pulling him even closer.
Josh smiled, pleased with himself at the reaction he was eliciting out of Maya. He continued working his hand swiftly beneath him, Maya squirming with excitement. "Shhhh," he repeated as Maya began moaning louder again.
"Josh," She practically whined, her hands gripping Josh's hair tightly. "Fuck," she breathed heavily. "Come onnnnn,"
Josh smiled and pulled his hand back, almost immediately replacing his fingers with what Maya was practically begging for.
Maya's breath hitched as Josh slid into her, her head rolling back. She bit her bottom lip trying to keep from waking everyone around them up.
Josh's hands laced with Maya's, her arms bent, resting against the pillows by her head. He lowered his head, connecting his lips with Maya's. "Mmm, baby," he moaned into their kiss.
Maya gently bit on Josh's bottom lip, which only urged Josh on even more.
"God, woman," Josh breathed, his hips moving with intensity as his hands moved to Maya's hair.
Maya felt her breathing increase, Josh's movements hitting her exactly the right way. "Josh," she breathed.
Josh buried his head into Maya's neck, his own breathing getting heavier as his pace increased.
"God," Maya moaned shakily, her hands digging into Josh's back, her legs clasped around his hips tightly as she felt her climax washing over her.
"Fuck, Maya," Josh breathed almost at the exact same time, his hips giving their final pulses as he went over the edge right along with the woman who completely consumed him. He finally collapsed onto the side of Maya, both of them breathing heavily. "God I love you," he whispered, gently placing a kiss right below her ear, just on her jawline.
Maya smiled, her eyes closed, her chest rising and falling at a regular rhythm again. "And I love you," she replied. "You have a good day today, babe?"
Josh's hands wrapped around Maya's still bare waist, "Absolutely," he said rubbing her stomach. "And you?"
Maya nodded. Days like today were what made the Matthews family so special to her, and she couldn't be more excited to finally, officially, be a part of them. She curled in closer to Josh, burying her head into his bare chest smiling contently.
-/-/-
"Josh!" Maya yelled. "We are literally always late, come on!"
Josh walked out of the bathroom, his hair still wet from his shower, buttoning his pants.
Maya shook her head, throwing her hands in the air.
"Oh, settle down," Josh rolled his eyes playfully.
"Ugh," Maya sighed. "You're so lucky you're your mother's favorite,"
Josh smiled proudly as he pulled a shirt on. "You know… we could always…" he said raising his eyebrows at Maya suggestively.
"Ya know, if we weren't already late, I'd totally be down." Maya said with a shrug as she glanced down at her fingernails.
Josh narrowed his eyes, "I got your number, Hart,"
Maya stood up, her eyes grasping onto Josh's, she raised an eyebrow at him.
Josh wrapped his arms around Maya, his hands resting just below her waist, "Game on, gorgeous," he whispered, giving her ass a quick squeeze.
The sexual tension between the two was high, as always, as Josh and Maya finally made their way to Cory and Topanga's for the annual Thanksgiving Matthews gathering.
"Family!" Josh announced as he walked through the front door, Maya's hand wrapped in his.
"You're late," Riley shot her Uncle a pointed look without a greeting.
"Whoa," Josh pulled his brows together. "You're feisty."
"I'm pregnant," Riley reminded Josh. "And starving." Her eyes were narrowed as she walked closer to Josh and Maya. "Peaches," she smiled, her tone softening as she greeted her best friend.
"Hi honey," Maya smiled hugging Riley. "How's my girl?" she asked glancing at Riley's belly as her hand rested gently on it.
"Grumpy," Riley directed her answer at Josh.
Josh rubbed the top of Riley's head as he walked toward the rest of the family.
"I'm sorry," Maya apologized, "I tried. Who knew I was marrying the most high-maintenance Matthews?"
"I heard that," Josh called from across the room.
Maya rolled her eyes. "I meant it!" she called right back at him.
"Happy Thanksgiving," Riley smile and laid her head on Maya's shoulder as the girls walked toward the kitchen.
"Happy Thanksgiving," Maya smiled back, placing a kiss on the top of Riley's head. "Last one before you're officially one of the moms at Thanksgiving," she said scrunching her nose at the thought.
"And this is your last holiday as a Hart," Riley pointed out.
Maya's eyes widened; Riley was right. She and Josh were getting married in two weeks. The countdown on Hart was officially on.
"Are you excited?" Riley asked in almost a sing-song voice.
"So excited," Maya forced a smile. It's not that she wasn't excited, Maya wasn't really sure how she was feeling.
"Happy Thanksgiving," Farkle said wrapping an arm around Maya, pulling her into a hug.
Maya smiled, "Happy Thanksgiving. How you holding up?" She asked nodding toward Riley.
Farkle's eyes grew wide, "Oh, not counting down the days or anything,"
Maya laughed and patted Farkle's back, "You're a good man, Farkle,"
"Maya," Topanga smiled extending her arms toward the blonde.
"Happy Thanksgiving," Maya breathed as she folded into Topanga's hug. "How've you guys been?"
"Busy," Topanga smiled.
"Oh I bet." Maya nodded.
"And how about you? Just a few more weeks until the big day, huh?"
Maya took a deep breath, "Yep. Were you nervous?" she asked Topanga, her brows pulled together.
"Absolutely." Topanga nodded.
"Oh thank God." Maya breathed.
Topanga laughed at her reaction, "It's totally normal. And you'll be nervous until the minute it's over, and that's okay."
Maya laid her head on Topanga's shoulder. "What would I do without you?"
Topanga patted Maya's head sweetly. "I love you, kiddo,"
"Talking her out of things, are ya, Topanga?" Josh asked walking over to his fiance and sister-in-law.
"You know it. Run while you have the chance, Maya," Topanga teased.
Josh wrapped his arm around Maya's waist, "You're not going anywhere are you?" he asked looking down at Maya.
Maya's eyes locked on to Josh's and in that moment, every ounce of nervousness faded away. She shook her head slowly, "No matter what," she whispered.
"Atta girl," Josh smiled, pulling Maya even closer to him, kissing her sweetly.
"Ah, get a room!" Cory waved his hand in the air at his brother as he walked down the stairs joining everyone in the kitchen.
"We can use yours, right?" Josh asked without missing a beat.
"Ahh!" Cory made a face shaking his head.
Maya's cheeks flushed at Josh's comment, his hand resting comfortably in her back pocket.
"Can we please eat now?" Riley asked grabbing everyone's attention.
The family gathered around the table, extra chairs added so that everyone could fit. As per Thanksgiving tradition, everyone went around the table saying what they were thankful for. Josh squeezed Maya's hand under the table as he expressed his gratitude for his growing family. Maya smiled and said how grateful she was to have been so accepted and loved by this family she would soon officially get to call her own.
The conversation around the table was loud and continual as everyone talked about upcoming events, between Maya and Josh's wedding, Christmas that was just around the corner and, of course, Riley and Farkle's baby that was due in just over a month.
Josh's hand rested on Maya's thigh under the table casually as he carried on conversations with his mother and brother. Without breaking the flow of his talking, Josh's hand slowly crept its way higher and higher up Maya's thigh.
Maya's eyes widened feeling Josh's hand slipping closer to the space between her legs. She shot a look his direction, not wanting to draw any attention to herself.
Josh leaned over to whisper into Maya's ear, "Game on, Hart," he reminded her of his words from earlier.
Maya kinked an eyebrow; fine, two could play that game. She swiftly slid her hand under the table as well, her hand going straight to button-fly of Josh's jeans, cupping her hand.
Josh cleared his throat feeling Maya's hand pressing against his crotch.
Maya's cheeks began flushing as Josh undid the button of her jeans and began slipping his hand under the waistband. Was he really? Maya thought to herself.
Josh used his strength and pulled Maya closer to him so he had a better angle at his goal.
Maya exhaled shakily as Josh's fingers connected with her bare skin.
"Maya?" Josh asked, feigning confusion, "You okay?" This drew everyone's attention to the blonde, which only caused her cheeks to flush more.
Riley tilted her head seeing the reddening deepen on Maya's face.
Maya shook her head, "I'm fine," she smiled, her hand clasping down a little tighter on Josh's pants.
Josh took this as a challenge and he continued to work his magic under the table. He was winning, Maya didn't stand a chance.
"Um, actually - -" Maya said and pulled her sweater down over the top of her jeans and quickly excused herself to the restroom.
Josh painted a look of concern on his face, acting like he had no idea what happened to Maya. "I'm gonna go check on her," he said and followed Maya to the bathroom. He quickly opened the bathroom door, startling Maya slightly. He turned the water on and spun Maya around, pressing her up against the bathroom door, his hands wrapping around her face, kissing her deeply. His hands quickly pulled Maya's pants down just enough to give him the access he needed, Maya doing the same to Josh's, their lips never parting. Within moments, the two were connected again, their mouths muffling each other's moaning as they finished what Josh started at the table.
If Maya and Josh were good at one thing, it was a quickie. Moments later Josh was buttoning his pants back up as Maya splashed her face with water. Josh wrapped his arms around Maya's waist, standing behind her, looking at their reflection in the mirror. Maya looked up, her eyes locking on Josh's, a smile spreading across her face.
"I win," Josh whispered.
Maya rolled her eyes playfully, "You win," she said patting the side of Josh's face.
"I love you," Josh added.
Maya turned to face him, "I love you," she smiled up at him.
Josh closed his eyes as he gently kissed Maya's forehead.
"Come on," Maya said grabbing Josh's hand, leading the two of them out of the bathroom.
"Everything okay?" Cory asked as the two rejoined the family, their hands laced.
Josh nodded.
"Sorry," Maya smiled slightly as she sat back down and began eating again, Josh's hand still clasping hers under the table.
Josh leaned over and kissed Maya's temple, "I love you," he whispered again, "Almost Mrs. Matthews,"
Maya laid her head gently on Josh's shoulder, the sound of her being the newest Mrs. Matthews suddenly not making her stomach do somersaults. She was ready. Maya couldn't think of anything she wanted more.
The first week in December came quicker than either Josh or Maya expected, Thanksgiving seeming to just have ended. It was the Thursday before their big day, both of them having the rest of the week off from work to get everything finalized and ready for Saturday.
"Josh!" Maya called from their bedroom.
Josh appeared in the doorway, "What's up?" he asked.
"I can't find my shoes!" Maya said panicked.
"You already packed them." Josh was surprisingly calm. "And Riley has your dress. And the food will be there Saturday morning. Breathe."
Maya took a deep breath. "I just feel like I'm going to forget something,"
Josh took a step closer to Maya, "Babe, if you forget something, you forget something, it's not the end of the world. Will you be there?"
"Yes."
"Will I be there?"
"I hope so…"
"You know I will. That's all that matters, don't let all this other little stuff stress you out. It's going to be perfect, you're going to look gorgeous, no matter what."
Maya's whole body seemed to relax at Josh's words. She laid her forehead on Josh's chest, "Thank you," she mumbled.
Josh kissed the top of her head.
"What would I do without you?" Maya asked.
"Be Maya Hart forever," Josh teased.
"Oh god," Maya ran her hand through her hair.
"T-50 hours, until you are officially Maya Matthews," Josh practically beamed.
Maya's cheeks blushed at the sound of her new name; it sounded perfect.
"We're leaving in about an hour," Josh reminded Maya.
"Yep," Maya nodded. "I think I'm good."
-/-/-
"Get out of here, Josh!" Riley barked seeing Josh in the suit of the lodge mere hours before the wedding.
Maya smiled at Josh through the mirror; she was working on her hair, Josh standing behind her.
"This is bad luck, what is wrong with you two?"
"Settle down, Riles," Maya laughed.
"Now, Matthews." Riley demanded.
Josh laughed and placed a kiss on the top of Maya's head. "I'll see you out there?"
Maya's eyes locked onto Josh's in the mirror and she was suddenly very aware of how hard her heart was beating. The next time she would see Josh she would be walking aisle, moments away from becoming the newest Mrs. Matthews. She took a deep breath and nodded.
Josh could see the nerves spread across Maya's face. "No matter what," he whispered.
Maya's eyes immediately softened at Josh's words; he knew exactly what she needed in that moment, he knew exactly what she needed in every moment. And that was one of the many reasons she was marrying this man.
"Go!" Riley swatted Josh's arm.
"Fine, fine, I'm leaving," Josh threw his hands up as he turned to leave.
"You ready?" Riley asked as she admired her gorgeous friend in front of her.
Maya lips curled into the softest of smiles and she nodded, "I think so…"
"Everything is good to go, girls, it's all - -" Topanga announced as she walked into the suit, stopping in her tracks seeing the girls in front of her. "Maya," she breathed, her eyes immediately filling with tears.
Maya bit her lip and pulled her brows together.
"Okay, baby girl, everyone is - -" Katy's reaction was nearly identical to Topanga's as she entered the room, finally seeing her daughter completely ready.
Maya couldn't hold back the smile that spread across her face, or the tears that began welling in her own eyes.
"Maya," Katy wrapped her arms around the younger blonde, "You look amazing," she held her close, not ready to let her go, both physically and suddenly, not ready to let her go as her baby girl.
"Thanks mom," Maya breathed into the embrace. "You don't look too bad yourself," She smiled as her mother pulled back from their hug.
"Oh," Katy blushed waving her in the air.
Riley laid her head on her mother's shoulder, "Can you believe it?" She whispered looking at her best friend.
Topanga kissed the top of Riley's head, rubbing her back, "It's going to be a beautiful day," she smiled. "Speaking of, it's time to get going, girls." Topanga announced.
Katy smiled brightly, pulling Maya into one more hug.
Riley walked over to her best friend, "You ready, Peaches?"
Maya grabbed Riley's hand, "Don't you go anywhere," she whispered.
"I'm right here," Riley smiled.
Katy and Topanga made they way to their seats, both waiting anxiously for the girls to make their appearance.
It was a small ceremony, just family; exactly how Maya and Josh had wanted it. A quiet place in the woods of Roxbury, a dozen chairs sitting on either side of the aisle outside amongst the trees, white accents gracing the area gently. Maya might have said she didn't want to get wrapped up in details of this wedding, but every inch of the event screamed Maya. It was perfect and perfectly done.
"Girls," Cory smiled seeing his daughter and Maya make their way to the entrance, their arms linked.
Riley smiled up at her dad, pulling Maya closer to her.
"Mr. Matthews," Maya whispered with a slight nod.
"Maya," Shawn breathed; she completely took his breath away. He shook his head, "You look beautiful…"
Maya smiled, "Thank you. You guys clean up nicely yourselves,"
Riley gently slipped her arm from Maya's, stepping to the side for Shawn to embrace her. She walked to her dad, placing a quick kiss on his cheek.
"How're you doing?" Cory asked glancing down at Riley's 8 month pregnant belly.
Riley placed her hand on her stomach gently, "We're holding up," she smiled.
"And how's she doing?" Cory asked with a quick nod back toward Maya.
Riley nodded, "She's holding up,"
"You two ready?" Cory asked glancing between the two girls.
Riley had a wild grin on her face, Maya's blue eyes shining with tears, they both looked at each other one last time before Maya gave the final nod, signaling that they could get things started.
Cory linked arms with Riley and signaled for the music to begin. Soft strings began and and Cory and Riley made their way down the aisle.
Josh's eyes finally glanced up, his hands wringing as he waited at the end of the aisle. He smiled softly seeing his brother, his best man, and his niece begin walking toward him. This was it, his life was about to begin.
The music shifted and all eyes were waiting for Maya to make her appearance.
"You ready, kiddo?" Shawn asked once more as he gently rubbed Maya's back.
Maya looked at the man she considered nothing but her father, her eyes brimming with tears, "Thank you," she whispered.
Shawn tilted his head slightly, "For what, Maya?" he asked.
"For everything, for showing me how a girl is supposed to be loved, for not leaving. I love you,"
Shawn's eyes filled with tears now, "Ah, Maya. I love you too," he sniffed and placed a kiss on the top of her head. "You sure you want to do this?" He asked raising an eyebrow, giving her one last out.
Maya laughed slightly and nodded, "I'm sure,"
"Alright, let's do this…"
Maya turned the corner, Josh finally getting his first glance of her. Josh's eyes immediately shined with tears and excitement as he saw the woman he was going to spend his life with. She was beautiful; she was more than beautiful, she was everything.
Maya couldn't hold back her smile as she finally saw Josh. There he was, standing in the sexiest suit she had ever seen, his hair perfect, and the look on his face piercing right through her. She could feel her heart pounding against her chest as she got closer to him.
Maya had heard people say that when you're in the moment, it's as if no one else exists but you and the one you are marrying, she laughed at the thought, but here she was, in the moment and she could have sworn she and Josh were the only people in the world.
"Hey gorgeous," Josh whispered as he took Maya's hands in his.
Maya's cheeks blushed as she smiled at Josh's comment.
Josh was still in awe of this woman in front of him, "You look amazing,"
"You're not too bad lookin yourself, Matthews," Maya quipped with a wink.
"You take care of her, Josh," Shawn reminded the youngest Matthews brother before he stepped back.
"No matter what," Josh whispered, his words directed at Maya.
"Friends and family…"
Maya couldn't tell you a single word that was said during the ceremony, she was completely lost in Josh's gaze the entire time. She was brought back to the moment as Josh gently squeezed her hands, "Babe," he whispered. Maya glanced around quickly and saw Riley holding a small sheet of paper; her vows.
Maya took a deep breath and looked into Josh's intense blue eyes as she began, "Josh… I have known you nearly my entire life… I have loved you just as long. Before you knew it, before you were ready, my heart knew, my heart was ready. Nothing in life, not time, not distance, not age," she teased slightly with a smile, "nothing could keep us away from each other. You showed me a love I never thought I could feel and gave me strength I never knew I needed. Joshua Gabriel Matthews, you have my whole, entire heart. I don't want to spend a single second of a single day with anyone else… no matter what,"
Josh breathed a breath he didn't realize he was holding, "Babe," he whispered, his hands going to Maya's face. He gently pulled her face to his, placing a soft, passionate kiss on her lips.
"Not yet!" Riley tried to correct the couple, eliciting laughs from their family and friends.
Maya blushed as she and Josh pulled away, laughing slightly.
"Sorry," Josh apologized, not really sorry at all. His eyes locked onto Maya's, "My turn," he whispered. "Maya, my love, my life," he began, "There is not a day, not a moment, that goes by that I am not completely consumed by everything about you. Your beauty, your grace, the love that you have and give to everyone around you - -Maya, I don't have word for what you mean to me. You have had me wrapped in everything about you since we were kids, amazing me even then with your passion and kindness. I couldn't imagine my life, I would never want to imagine my life with anyone but you. This is it for me, you are it for me. No matter what," Josh ended on the same words Maya had.
This time is was Maya who pulled Josh to her, pressing her forehead against his, "I love you," she whispered.
"God I love you," Josh replied, his hands cupping her face as their lips collided once again.
Riley sighed and rolled her eyes; they were not following the order of things.
"You ready to make this official?" Josh asked.
Maya bit her bottom lip slightly and nodded, her eyes screaming with excitement.
Josh looked up at the officiant and gave him a nod to continue.
What felt like moments and yet a lifetime later, Maya felt Josh once again squeeze her hands.
"You may kiss the bride… again,"
Everyone laughed as Josh pulled Maya into a kiss that completely took her breath away, his arms wrapped around her waist, her arms around his neck; no one existed in that moment but the two of them, the cheers from their friends and family silenced by the world Josh and Maya created they were the only ones a part of.
"Mrs. Matthews," Josh smiled as he finally pulled back, just slightly, from the kiss, their foreheads pressed against each other.
Maya couldn't contain the smile that took over her face. "I like the sound of that,"
Josh nodded, "So do I,"
Josh and Maya stayed wrapped in that world they created for the rest of the night, their friends and family continually greeting and congratulating them. The reception was beautiful, white lights shining a romantic glow over everyone and everything in sight. Josh had arranged not only mini-grilled cheese and tomato soup, but also a hot chocolate and apple cider bar, with an entire spread for caramel apples.
Maya had promised she would handle the cake, and that she did. The rustic feel of the entire wedding was beautifully represented in the small red-velvet cake that screamed Maya.
Riley came up with the idea of having s'mores as favors for everyone and as the evening wore down, the group gathered around a small fire pit, the fire lighting everyone with the most beautiful glow as they all laughed and roasted marshmallows together.
Josh's arm stayed permanently wrapped around Maya's waist, not wanting to let her go, almost unsure if this day was real. He looked down at the beautiful blonde pulled in close to him, her head resting on his chest. "I want to stay here forever," he whispered Maya's familiar phrase from the weekend the two got engaged.
Maya nodded, "I think we get to now," she smiled.
"No matter what?" Josh asked.
"No matter what." Maya promised.
Josh smiled sweetly as he leaned down bringing Maya into another passionate kiss. Josh didn't know life could be this perfect, that he could feel this complete, but here he was, the most beautiful woman in the world wrapped in his arms, resting her head on his chest, officially wearing his last name. There was nothing more he wanted in his life.
-/-/-
Josh and Maya arrived at Cory and Topanga's Christmas Eve night last, as usual.
"Ah, and the newest Matthews finally grace us with their presence," Cory announced as he let Maya and Josh into the apartment.
"My brotha," Josh smiled.
Cory shook his head, a smile immediately spreading across his face. "My bortha," he said as he brought Josh into a hug.
Maya stood next to Josh, a bright smile painted across her face as she waited for Cory to finish embracing Josh. As Cory pulled away, Maya didn't miss a beat, "My brotha," she said holding her arms out for a hug from Cory.
"Ugh," Cory sighed shaking his head as he hugged Maya. "That will never not be weird,"
Maya laughed as Cory rubbed her back, "You know you love me,"
"Lucky you," Cory smiled as he pulled back smiling as he took in the newlyweds in front of him. "You two look good,"
"Lots of sex," Josh nodded.
"Ahh!" Cory covered his ears.
Maya playfully slapped Josh's chest, her cheeks flushing as they often did when Josh tried to make Cory uncomfortable.
Josh shrugged, "What, it's true,"
"Everyone doesn't have to know about it," Maya rolled her eyes.
"I like you better than him now," Cory told Maya.
Maya smiled and looked around the living room, "Where's my girl?" she asked confused, not seeing Riley.
Cory motioned behind him, "She's laying down in her room,"
Maya squeezed Josh's hand, signaling to him that she was about to walk away.
Josh pulled Maya closer before she slipped away, kissing her softly, "Love you," he whispered.
Maya smiled into Josh's kiss, "Love you," she repeated.
Cory smiled to himself seeing his brother so happy with the woman he loved, the woman he was going to spend the rest of his life with.
Maya walked straight to Riley's old bedroom, her best friend the first person, aside from Cory, she needed to see. She knocked on the bedroom door gently.
"Too tired," Riley mumbled.
Maya pushed the door open and stepped into the familiar bedroom. "But it's Christmas," she smiled seeing Riley laying on the bed in front of her.
"Peaches!" Riley's voice immediately changed, a new energy evident after hearing her best friend.
"Hi buddy,"
Riley began pushing herself off the bed to greet Maya.
Maya waved her hand signaling for Riley to stay put. She kicked off her shoes and crawled onto the bed, curling up behind Riley, hugging her closely. "Merry Christmas," Maya whispered.
Riley smiled, wrapping her arms around Maya's, holding her tightly, "Merry Christmas,"
"How're you feeling?"
"Exhausted," Riley breathed.
"I bet. Just a few more days, Riles" Maya rubbed Riley's stomach. "Just a few more days, Maya Jr,"
Riley shook her head, "We're not naming her Maya Jr, Maya,"
Maya pouted. "Why not?"
Riley slowly rolled over to where she was facing her best friend now, a smile pressed on her lips. "Because," she started, "There's only room for one Maya in my World,"
Maya pressed her forehead against Riley's, her eyes closing softly.
"How's married life treating you?" Riley asked.
Maya leaned back, propping her head up on her hand, "Lots of sex," she repeated Josh's line from earlier.
"Ah!" Riley practically replicated Cory's exact reaction. "He's still my Uncle, Maya,"
"Ah, that's right, it's Aunt Maya now,"
Riley laughed shaking her head, "No."
Maya raised her eyebrow at her friend.
"No." Riley repeated.
Maya smiled, not ready to let this one go just yet. "So, do you two have a name yet?"
Riley nodded, a sly smile on her face. "We do,"
"And?!" Maya exclaimed; she'd been waiting months for this.
"We're not telling anyone yet,"
"Ugh!" Maya flopped back on the bed eliciting a laugh from Riley. "Secrets don't make friends, Riley,"
Riley rubbed the top of Maya's head, "I've got enough friends,"
Josh knocked slightly on the open bedroom door as he appeared in the doorway. "Hey niece," he smiled.
"Uncle Josh," Riley sat up smiling right back at him.
Josh nodded behind him, "Your mom said food is ready,"
Riley nodded and slid her legs off the side of the bed, Josh immediately coming over to help the very pregnant Riley off the bed. "Thanks," she smiled sweetly.
"How much longer?" Josh asked.
"About a week and a half…"
"On my birthday!" Maya exclaimed practically bouncing with excitement.
Both Josh and Riley shook their heads rolling their eyes slightly at the blonde.
"That's your best friend," Josh laughed whispering to Riley.
Riley looked up at him, "That's your wife," she reminded him.
Everyone sat down to eat, Riley taking a comfortable seat in the over-sized chair in the living room, Farkle quick to get her anything she needed.
There was virtually zero space between Josh and Maya as they sat on the couch, keeping Riley company in the living room.
"Josh, I think you've eaten more than I have today," Riley joked as Josh finished his plate quickly and began picking off Maya's without hesitation.
Josh looked up at Riley, his brows furrowed, "I thought I told you, Riles, lots of sex,"
Maya rolled her eyes laughing as both Riley and Cory let out the exact same "Ahh!" shaking their respective heads.
"That's never getting old," Josh smiled as he leaned down and kissed Maya.
"Mmm, you know what else will never get old?" Maya asked.
"No, Maya." Riley stopped her before she could even finish.
Maya nodded, "Aunt Maya," she corrected her best friend.
"I will literally never call you that." Riley shook her head.
Maya smiled proud of herself, her eyebrows raised, "We'll see."
-/-/-
"Aunt Maya!" Riley gasped as Maya and Josh walked through the front door, arms loaded down with presents.
Maya smiled brightly as Riley's two year old daughter came running to her, "My Penny!" She exclaimed, quickly putting down the gifts that were almost exclusively the tiniest brunette's, and quickly scooping the girl up, plastering kisses all over her. "I love you, I love you, I love you," she repeated.
"Aunt Maya" Penny giggled, her legs wiggling in Maya's arms.
Josh quickly snatched the toddler out of Maya's arms, throwing her over his shoulders, "My Penny." He corrected looking up at his newest niece, bouncing slightly eliciting an even louder laugh from the little girl.
"Riles," Maya smiled embracing her best friend. "Merry Christmas,"
"Merry Christmas," Riley hugged Maya close. "How are you?"
Maya smiled, her eyes practically glistening as she looked at her husband playing with Penny. "Great," she breathed.
Riley threw her arm around Maya, laying her head on her best friend's shoulder.
"How are you guys?" Maya asked.
"Exhausted." Riley's eyes were wide as she too watched her daughter and Uncle interact. "I have no idea how she has so much energy," she shook her head.
Maya laughed, "Someone has more energy than Riley Matthews?"
"She got it all from Riley Matthews," Farkle added as she joined the girls.
"What's that saying about payback from your childhood?" Maya asked tilting her head laughing slightly.
"Well good luck for you two then," Riley teased Maya right back.
Maya smiled sweetly, her eyes immediately back on Josh as he snuck open another of the many presents they had for their niece. Her heart could barely handle watching her husband interact with a tiny version of her best friend. Penelope looked just like Riley, and she bounced around with the same energy the brunette had as a small child. Maya couldn't wait to see the person this little girl was going to grow into. At almost three years old, she was the complete love and joy of the entire Matthews family, eliciting laughs out of anyone she was around, then batting her eyes and making them fall completely in love with her regardless of her prior action; that was the Maya in her Riley always said. Being born the day before Maya's birthday was also the Maya in her. It was the running dialogue in the family, and while Riley swore off naming her daughter Maya, Penelope was a very close second that brought the blonde to a puddle of tears the day she was born. Penny held such a special spot in Maya's heart, a love she didn't know she could feel.
"Josh, I swear to God, if you let her open another present - -" Riley scolded her Uncle as he grabbed another box for Penny to rip in to.
Josh waved his niece's warning off and began opening another box with Penny.
Riley shook her head, "You guys spoil her way too much,"
Maya smiled proudly, "Of course we do."
"Payback, my friend, just you wait," Riley exhaled and laid her head on Maya's shoulder.
"Are your parents here?" Maya asked noticing she had yet to see Cory or Topanga.
"Oh yeah, Mom's in the kitchen, Dad is with Auggie out back,"
Maya kissed the top of Riley's head, "I'm gonna go say hi," she smiled and stood up.
Josh's eyes were immediately on Maya, watching her every move.
Maya gave him a small smile and nod back toward Penny as she turned and headed for the kitchen. "Hello my favorite sister-in-law," Maya smiled brightly as she walked into the kitchen.
"Maya!" Topanga smiled, opening her arms to embrace the blonde in a hug.
Maya hugged Topanga tightly, "Merry Christmas," she smiled.
"Merry Christmas. How have you guys been? We missed you at Thanksgiving," Topanga said rubbing Maya's arms as she pulled her back.
Maya nodded, "We're good. Yeah, sorry, that was… all me," she shook her head, rolling her eyes slightly.
Topanga raised an eyebrow curiously at her sister-in-law.
Maya's lips were pressed together tightly, a small smile trying to creep its way onto her face.
"Stop it!" Topanga exclaimed.
"Shh," Maya laughed looking around, making sure no one heard.
"Maya!"
"Shh!" Maya repeated.
"Who knows?!" Topanga asked excitedly.
Maya shook her head, "Josh, my parents, that's it." She couldn't keep the smile off her face now. "We're telling Riley today,"
Topanga pulled Maya into another hug, "Maya," she breathed, "I'm so happy for you."
"Thank you, we're pretty excited."
"How far along are you?" Topanga asked, ready for all the details.
Maya made a face, "Four and a half months,"
"What?!" Topanga exclaimed pulling back, examining the tiny girl in front of her. "How in the world have you two kept this hidden?!"
Maya laughed, "Baggy clothes," she said with a shrug, "I don't know." she laughed. "I really didn't start showing until like last week or so, and just barely," Maya told Topanga turning to the side, pulling her shirt against her, placing her hands strategically on her stomach. There was barely a bump, and if you weren't looking for it, you wouldn't have noticed it, but now that Topanga knew, she could see it all over Maya.
Just then Cory walked through the back door that lead to the kitchen, "Hey, Topang - - Maya!" He greeted seeing the new addition in the kitchen.
Maya's eyes were wide, Cory catching her off guard. "Merry Christmas," she smiled, her hands still clasping her slightly showing stomach.
"Are you…?" He asked cautiously.
Maya nodded slightly, a smile painted on her face.
Cory quickly wrapped the blonde in a tight embrace, "Oh, Maya. Congratulations, sweetie!"
"Thank you. Don't say anything, we're surprising Riley later," Maya smiled
Cory and Topanga kept their lips sealed throughout dinner. Josh couldn't keep his eyes off Maya, though, continually checking in with her, strategically pulling Penny off his wife when he felt like she was getting too rough. Josh had been incredibly cautious with Maya over the past several months, their last pregnancy suddenly weighing heavy on his mind as Maya progressed through this one.
As per Matthews tradition, after dinner, everyone gathered around the tree to exchange, what is supposed to be, one present per person before bed. Maya and Josh ignored the rule when it came to Penny, however, and in between every present the adults opened, Josh would slide another one to the little brunette.
"Josh!" Riley scolded again.
Josh made a face at his niece, "She's three," he shrugged.
"You're ruining my child." Riley said pointedly at Josh and Maya.
Maya was sitting cross-legged on the floor next to the tree, Josh behind her, his legs on either side of her, Maya leaning against his chest. She leaned back and looked up at her husband, "We're ruining her child," Maya repeated Riley's words, a fake frown on her face.
Josh placed a quick kiss on Maya's lips. "She'll live."
"Okay, Riles, yours next," Maya smiled, "Hey Penny, take this to Mommy?" She asked holding a bag to the two year old and pointing to Riley.
"Mine?" Penny smiled wide-eyed.
"Mommy," Maya repeated with a laugh pointing again to Riley.
Penny sat down and began pulling paper out of the bag eliciting laughs from the adults.
"This is both of your doing," Riley pointed to Josh and Maya as she kneeled next to her daughter who was quickly ripping through the bag.
Penny pouted not seeing a present in the bag. "All gone?" she said, her brows pulled together, her hands upturned as she looked at her mother confused.
Riley looked at the pile of paper around her daughter, confused as well. She looked up at Maya, her brows now pulled together in confusion; Penny really was her twin.
Maya rolled her eyes playfully nodding to the bag, Josh rested his chin on the top of Maya's head as they both watch Riley search the bag.
"Can I see, Pen?" Riley asked gently sliding the bag out of her daughter's hands. She glanced inside and spotted an envelope. "Mmm," she hummed pulling the envelope out. "Please be a week of free babysitting," she joked. Riley opened the envelope, a card with, what Riley recognized immediately as Maya's handwriting, Your present is on layaway… written across the front. "Thanks peaches," Riley shot Maya a look, teasing her.
Josh wrapped his arms around Maya, as she rolled her eyes waiting on her friend to open the card.
Riley flipped the card opened, Maya's handwriting again Arriving May, 2031, and a drawing of what Riley immediately identified as a sonogram. "Wait…" she breathed and looked up at her best friend.
Maya smiled at Riley, not saying anything just yet.
"Wait!" Riley exclaimed louder this time as she pressed herself up onto her knees. Penny looked up at her mother confused. "Maya!" Tears were filling in Riley's eyes, "Is this… are you guys…?"
Maya's brows raised as she nodded slightly.
"Maya," Riley was officially crying now as she lunged into her best friend, embracing her in a tight hug, Josh bracing Maya from behind as Riley hugged onto her tightly.
Everyone had tears in their eyes as they watched the two girls embrace; this moment full of so many emotions, so much meaning.
"When are you…? How long? How could you not tell me?!" Riley exclaimed all at once as she pulled back from Maya.
Penny wasn't sure what was happening, but she followed her mother's lead and threw herself into Maya's arms.
"Penny!" Riley gasped, pulling her daughter off Maya. "Be careful," she told her gently.
Penny looked up at her mother confused.
"Aunt Maya has a baby in her tummy," Riley said pointing to Maya's stomach.
Josh pressed his lips to the back of Maya's head, this was one of those moments he would remember for the rest of his life, he wanted to absorb every second of it. His heart was pounding as he held Maya close to him, his love for this woman only growing every day they were together.
Riley held her daughter in her lap as she looked up at Maya, "So…?" she started again, waiting for Maya to answer her previous questions.
Maya nodded to the card in Riley's hand, "May," she said answering the first question, "The middle of May. Um… we've known for a few months I guess… that's why we missed Thanksgiving - -"
"Is everything okay?" Riley was immediately concerned.
Maya nodded emphatically. "Yeah, no, totally, we're fine. I was just fighting some really bad morning sickness. And we weren't ready to tell everyone just yet… but everything's fine," she assured her best friend.
Riley exhaled and nodded, relaxing for a moment. "Hey!" She said swatting Maya's knee. "Why didn't you tell me?"
Maya laughed, flinching back from Riley's hand, "We just did," she smiled.
Riley's brows set, pinched together and huffed, "Fine,"
Penny looked up at her mom, then immediately mimicked her facial expression, "Fine," she practically squeaked.
"Oh yeah, sassy britches?" Josh asked from behind Maya.
Penny pointed a tiny finger at her Uncle, "You sassy bwitches,"
"I'm takin all your presents back, then," Josh teased sticking his tongue out.
Penny's jaw dropped, "Uh!"
Maya shook her head winking at her niece, "No way," she whispered.
Penny stuck her tongue back out at Josh and crawled into Maya's lap.
Maya kissed the top of Penny's head. "I love you, little Pen,"
"Love you, Aunt Maya,"
Riley smiled looking at her best friend as she held her daughter, Josh's arms still protectively around his wife. This was the life Maya deserved, this was the happiness Maya deserved; tears filled Riley's eyes once again as she smiled seeing how complete her best friend looked.
-/-/-
"Dad!" a little voice rang through the room.
"You're being summoned," Maya whispered.
"If we don't move, maybe they'll go away," Josh suggested.
Maya laughed and curled into Josh's chest.
"Mama," another, smaller voice called.
Maya sighed, the five year old voice could be "slept through" for a few moments, but when she heard her three and a half year old calling for her, Maya knew she had to get up. She opened the door to her bedroom, "Coop," she smiled, ruffling her son's head, "Go get him," she nodded to the bed behind her, signaling to her son to go wake up his father.
Cooper smiled wildly and ran past his mother, quickly jumping on the bed, "Dad!"
"Maya!" Josh whined as Maya smiled and made her way to the kids' room.
"Hi baby girl," she smiled seeing her daughter standing on the bed that was much too big for her.
"Mama!" the tiny blonde smiled holding her arms in the air.
"Lilly!" Maya repeated the excitement in her daughter's voice as she scooped her up, kissing her face.
Lilly's hands immediately went to Maya's hair, running her fingers through her mother's long blonde locks as she hummed to herself.
Maya carried the curly, blonde hair, blue eyed spitting image of herself back to the bedroom Josh and Cooper were both in.
"Lilly bug!" Josh smiled seeing his daughter, Cooper sitting on his chest.
"Daddy!" Lilly squealed wiggling out of Maya's arms.
"Chopped liver," Maya shook her head.
"What are we doing today, kiddies?" Josh asked as he snuggled Lilly close to him and ran his hands through Cooper's hair.
"Princess!" Lilly cheered.
"Ahh, do we have to?" Cooper groaned.
"What do you want to do today, Coop?" Maya asked joining the kids on the bed.
Cooper leaned back placing his head in his mother's lap. "Star Wars!"
"That's my boy!" Josh said holding his hand up for a high-five.
Maya shook her head, laughing. Josh and Cooper had such a great father-son relationship, they were complete buds, Cooper wanting to do everything with Josh, Josh ready to do everything with his son. And then there was Lilly. At three and a half years old, this blonde firecracker was Maya 100%, she had her mother's hair, her mother's eyes, her mother's quick sass, and at almost four, Josh could already see Maya's tiny size taking hold in their daughter. If anyone was going to have this grown man wrapped around their finger, it was Lilly Matthews, Maya a very close second.
"Daddy," Lilly looked up at her dad, her blue eyes shining as she batted her eyelashes. "Princesses," she pouted sweetly.
Josh's heart completely melted, if she kept looking at him like that, Josh would be dressed as a princess himself. "Who taught you that?" he asked pinching her cheek.
"That's my girl," Maya winked.
"Bud…" Josh started looking over at Cooper.
"Ugh," he sighed, "Fine, we can go do princesses," he said giving in rather easily.
Maya leaned down and kissed Cooper's forehead. "You're a sweetheart, Coop," she whispered. "We'll go to Star Wars land, I promise," she assured him. Maya's phone started buzzing on the nightstand and she leaned over to pick it up. "Hello?"
"Aunt Maya," a very definitive voice said from the other end of the phone.
Maya laughed, "Penelope," she repeated in the same tone.
"Mom said you to come get me, she's sleeping."
Maya laughed, "Where's your mother?"
"Sleeping," she repeated, Maya could practically hear the pout in Penny's voice.
"And Dad?"
"He's in the shower,"
"Can I talk to Mom?"
Penny sighed and Maya could hear her voice further away now, as she spoke to Riley, "Aunt Maya wants to talk to you,"
"How are they awake?" Riley practically cried.
"I have no idea," Maya laughed.
"Didn't we wear them out enough yesterday?"
"Apparently not. Both of mine are up and bouncing to get out of this room,"
"I can't," Riley shook her head.
Maya laughed, "This is what happens when you get yourself knocked up before our family vacation to Disney, my love,"
"Leave me alone," Riley snapped.
Maya looked over at Josh, "Your niece is feisty this morning,"
Josh laughed shaking his head.
"Want me to come get Penny? I've got to get Coop and Lil dressed and then we can take everyone to breakfast,"
"Yes," Riley whined. "Would you, please?"
"Of course," Maya smiled.
"I love you,"
"You better," Maya teased. "Come on, little Lil, let's go get Penny,"
"Yay!" Lilly cheered and hopped up from Josh's arms.
"Hey," Josh gently grabbed Maya's hand as she picked Lilly up.
Maya looked down at her husband, tilting her head slightly.
Josh's eyes softened as he looked at Maya, "I love you," he practically whispered.
Maya smiled sweetly, "I love you, babe," she said and leaned down to kiss him.
Lilly followed suit and kissed her father's cheek.
"And I'll love you even more if you get Coop ready," Maya smiled. "We'll be back," she waved.
"Be back!" Lilly waved mimicking her mother.
Josh and Maya managed to wrangle all three kids down for breakfast, characters stopping by their table every few minutes greeted with cheers, screams and a few tears as Lilly got scared and ran to her mother's arms.
Josh looked around the table and he couldn't help but laugh. This was the definition of crazy; Cooper and Penny were loudly chatting across the table to each other, debating over which character was their favorite. Lilly was clinging to Maya for dear life, the most recent visit by an oversized bear coming up from behind her sending her into a fit of screams. Very little food was being eaten, by the kids or the adults, and Josh was sure that would lead to a meltdown or two in a few hours as well. He looked at Maya who somehow was managing the entire situation just fine. He didn't have the words to describe this moment, how perfect this chaos felt, how he wouldn't have changed a single thing about it if he could. Maya's eye caught his and a brilliant smile spread across her lips "What?" she shook her head.
She was truly beautiful. Everything Josh could have ever hoped for, everything he didn't even know to hope for, Maya was it. She was still quick, always keeping him on his toes. She was kind, loving him and their family with a capacity that still amazed him every single day. She was smart, funny, stubborn; Maya was everything. And she had given him everything. Josh leaned in and placed a kiss on her temple. "Thank you," he whispered.
"For what, babe?" Maya asked confused.
"For this, for everything. Maya," He grabbed her free hand. "I love you. This life is perfect because of you,"
Maya laughed a little, "This is perfect?" she looked at the table in front of them and down at their daughter in her lap, eating off her plate.
Josh nodded, "This is perfect." He repeated. "With you, it's always perfect, no matter what."
Maya's heart soared at those words that held every ounce of meaning in their relationship. She smiled at Josh and nodded slightly and leaned toward him, her lips gently pressing against his. "No matter what," she whispered back to him.
And that's all she wrote. I hope you guys enjoyed the roller coaster that was the ride of No Matter What. I truly loved writing it, and I am so sorry for the long gaps between UDs. I hope I did this story justice and I can't tell you guys how much I appreciate your taking the time to read this, I know the UDs have all been super long, and I can't tell you what it means to me that you put in the time to read and live through this story with these characters.
I'm going to miss you guys and this story -it's like sending your child to college! It just exists out in the world without me now. If you get a wild hair to let me know your thoughts, drop me a review, I'll give you all my love in review replies.
Thank you, thank you, thank you for hanging with me through this one. I love you guys!
xoxo
Manders
