Lucas

When we first got to Riley's house, her mom and dad just stared at us, oddly. Mr. Matthews just looked at me, and said, "I'm not trying to be mean, but why are you still here."

Riley took a deep breath before speaking, and and explaining the circumstances, "Well, I know it was one of your rules that we could never stay at each others houses, but Lucas has a problem."

Mrs. Matthews looked at me with concern, whereas Mr. Matthews was livid. Mrs. Matthews was the one to speak, "Oh, Lucas what's wromg.

I looked over at Riley, the worry overwhelming me. Her eyes told me to go on, it's okay. Heart thumping out of my chest, I spoke, "My mother is marrying an abusive man, if I can even call him a "man." I know it's too much to ask, but Mr. and Mrs. Matthews, can I stay with you for a few days. Only until I come up with a plan."

Mrs. Matthews just smiled, "Of course, honey. And call me Topanga. Wait until the two of you are married to call me mom." I laughed and looked at Riley, her cheeks were fiery red. Mrs. Matthew, or Topanga, just laughed, "Oh come on, it's bound to happen! I've seen the way the two of you look at each other! Besides, you're the daughter of freaking Cory and Topanga!"

Mr. Matthews' eyes flashed at the few remarks, "Topanga! Fine. Lucas, you can call me Cory. I guess you can stay. Does your mom need a break from the guy?"

I looked down, and replied, "Actually, I'm the one being beaten. My mom just stands by and watches."

Topanga looked at me with sad eyes, "Oh. Stay here as long as you want. You're always welcome here! We'll help you figure something out. I promise."

Riley

I helped my mom set up some stuff on the couch for Lucas to sleep on. Right before Lucas went to bed, I whispered something to him, "Mom and Dad are about to sleep, I'll some down in ten minutes."

Right after my parents settled down, I crept down the stairs, and spoke softly to Lucas, "Hey, can I join you?"

I could hear the smile of his voice, "Of course. I love you. Why would I want you to stay with me?" He pressed a soft kiss on my forehead. I took the extra step and softly kissed him. I felt his lips smile against mine. Hesitantly, I pulled away, even though I didn't want it to.

Quietly, I got on the couch with him, and he instantly wrapped his arms around me. I felt so safe and sound there in his embrace. Nothing could bring me down right now. Except, my father. Out of no where, I heard an incredulous voice, and I saw a light turn on, "Riley Rose Matthews! Why are you down here?! I hardly approve of you two dating, and I walk in on this when I wanted to get a drink! Mr. Friar, I don't like how you are influencing my daughter."

I felt fire course through my veins, "Dad! You have to understand, I love Lucas with all of my heart. I know that you don't want me to grow up, but it's inevitable. And, Lucas isn't influencing me. I'm making my own decisions. Even if we are dating, I still am me. He's not changing me, he's making me a better person. That's what the person you love is supposed to do, right?"

"Mr. Friar, may I speak to you in private please? Riley, we will be in your room, and I promise not to hurt him."

I relented,"Go, Daddy. Good luck, Lucas," He sent me a worried smile, so I gave him a reassuring one.

I pressed my ear against my bedroom door, eavesdropping. "Lucas," It was my father's voice, "i know of your intentions toward my daughter. And I respect that you had asked me for my blessing before you asked her to be your girlfriend." This was certainly news to me. Lucas is certainly a gentleman. Daddy continued on, "Honestly, I have never hated you, more the idea of you. Well, the idea of my little girl growing up, and me not being the most significant male in her life anymore. But, if anyone is to take my place, it's you. When I look at you and Riley, I see a hint of myself and Topanga. The kind of love that you hold on to, cherish."

Lucas' voice held a certain awe as he spoke, "Wow, thank you Mr. Matthews. I truly, really do love Riley with all of my heart. Ever since I met her."

"As I said, call me Cory. We're family now."

"Okay, Cory. Thank you."

"But, if you ever hurt my little girl, you will regret it. Although Riley would get to you first. Then me, along with her Uncles Shawn, Eric, and Josh."

"I wouldn't think of it, sir."

"Good, now let's go before Riley gets worried." That was my cue to run. I scurried off before they emerged from my bedroom, and pretended to sleep.

Daddy kiss my forehead and said one thing before leaving, "Take good care of her."

Maya

That night, I dreamed of the future, of a little boy running my way, likely no more than four years old, "Mommy, Mommy," he yelled, "Daddy's chasing me!" I felt myself laughing as I picked him up and Josh emerged.

"You little rascal," Josh pretended to lament, "You promised you wouldn't tell!" He came up, and hugged the both of us, continuing on, "My handsome little son, and my beautiful wife."

I slept with a permanent smile etched across my face.

Farkle

Today was a whirlwind, my best friend was so off, and the only one that seemed to notice besides me was Riley. She must've done something by now, knowing her meddling ways. I hope that she fixes Lucas soon, because if anyone can, it's her. I just want my best friend back. As for me and Isadora, we couldn't possible be happier.