Disclaimer: Not mine!

Author's Note: Thanks for the reviews, all! I was thinking, I need some OCs for this fic, so should I like come up with a random number and whoever left that review give me an OC? Is that a bad idea?

Anyway, I do want to apologize to the Dexter and Princess fans. I think I made them a little meaner than I meant to :/

There's plenty of Brick/Blossom in this chappie and I've got some cool Bubbles/Boomer stuff planned, but I'm really drawing a blank with Buttercup/Butch. Help? D:

Okay, so this is a loooong chappie! Took me a while. I do hope y'all enjoy it! (:

...

(As always, Blossom's POV)

Brick smirked, "I'm beginning to think you're the one who missed me."

I chuckled, stepping forward coyly, "Brick, I missed you as much as a little kid misses steamed broccoli on pizza night." That wasn't a lie. I loved steamed broccoli as a kid. I still would if these crazy pregnancy symptoms weren't screwing with me.

"You must've missed me a lot. Broccoli was my favorite growing up," Brick leaned back casually in his leather chair.

I frowned. He liked broccoli too? We had something in common? "Okay, I'll just cut to the chase," I walked to his desk and pulled out a red file from my bag. "We need to reschedule a few court dates."

He raised an eyebrow as he grabbed the file and flipped through its contents, "You mean all of them?"

I shrugged, "Same difference."

"May I ask why?" Brick questioned, curious.

I bit my lip. I couldn't let him know that I had no lawyers right now, "I've just got some surgeries set for that day and I won't be able to make them," I replied smoothly. He gave me a knowing grin. I exhaled and slammed my hands on his desk. I leaned forward, so I could meet him eye-to-eye, the only thing between us his mahogany desk. I was perfectly aware of the view I was allowing him down my shirt and I was hoping I could work that my advantage. Hey, what's the point of having feminine wiles if you can't ever use them?

Brick smiled devilishly and I hoped it was because he pretty much getting a free show. "Blossom, don't lie to me. That hurts," he feigned sadness.

I licked my luscious lips and tried to play it cool, "What would I be lying about?" I asked, feigning ignorance.

Brick smirked, rested his elbows on the desk and leaned closer to me, "I know your little hospital has an attorney problem," he clarified, his warm (with a dash of... cinnamon?) breath encompassing me.

I froze. Damn it. He knew. I withdrew, stood up straight and crossed my arms across my chest, "How'd you know?"

"Well, I certainly don't feel compelled to answer your questions now," Brick stated. I glared. "But it doesn't matter how I know. What matters is that you're getting sued for millions of dollars next week and you can't do anything about it," Brick grinned.

Those words hit me like a sharp knife in the side. He was completely and utterly correct. I stood no chance if I didn't have my lawyers. I bit my lip and closed my eyes, trying to hold back any moisture. Damn these hormones. I couldn't cry in front of Brick.

Maybe it was because I was showing vulnerability. Maybe it was because he didn't really hate me. Maybe he did what he did because deep down, he cared about me.

"I'll bet the judge is going to be pissed when he finds out we've rescheduled these dates again," Brick finally said with a groan. I opened my eyes to see his warm smile and I knew he was serious.

"Thank you, Brick," I murmured. He nodded in response. I bit my lip. Okay, real reason I was here. Come on, Bloss, you got this. You can do this. Don't chicken out now. Look how far you've come. ...Okay, I suck at peptalks. I just need to come out an say it. I took in a deep breath, "Brick, maybe you're not such a horrible, terrible human being..."

"...Thank you..?" Brick looked at me quizzically. "Back at ya, Blossom," he responded.

I couldn't stop my lips from twitching into a smile, "Thanks. ...Friends?" I stuck out my hand for him to shake. Well, this is it. He can shake my hand and affirm that we could be friends (and maybe in the future, more) or he could leave me hanging there awkwardly.

Thankfully, he did not choose the latter. His calloused, yet gentle, hand took mine and shook it firmly. "Yeah, I guess I could live with that," he smirked. "I'll see you... whenever our new courtdates are."

"It's a courtdate!" I called out as I turned around to leave. From the look on his face as I left, I think Brick would agree that I made the right choice when I put on this pair of tight trousers.

And I think I could agree that this was a success.

Blossom Utonium and Brick Jojo were friends.

Friends!

...

It had been a week since Brick and I decided to be friends and I was due for my mid-pregnancy appointment. I was exactly half-way through my pregnancy! Wow! The first half wasn't too hard, but this second part was going to be intense.

My symptoms had increased from just mood swings, hungriness and peeing all the time to aches in my lower abdomen, backaches, occasional dizziness, constipation and even a little heartburn. My tummy was growing rapidly and I knew I couldn't keep this a secret any longer. I had gained ten pounds already and my uterus was almost the size of a cantaloupe. I even felt my very first kick! Nowadays, I have this instinctive urge to rest my hand on my growing swell, but I have to fight it or else I'll draw too much attention to that area.

But, despite all the problems I was having, I had this glow to my face and I was, honestly, excited. I was going to be a mother! That feeling just... I couldn't put to words to it. It was amazing.

The elevator dinged and I left my thoughts as I stepped out of it and walked to Sara's office. I stepped into the lobby and saw probably my least favorite person in the world...

"Princess? What are you doing here?" I asked, confused at seeing her. Why was she here?

Princess scoffed, "What are you doing here, Blossom?"

"I work here?" I raised an eyebrow.

"Well," Princess said snootily, ignoring me, "If you must know, I'm here for prenatal care."

Prenatal care? She was pregnant? "You're... Seeking prenatal care?" I asked incredulously. Her being pregnant wasn't surprising (I mean, come on. Princess slept around. Everyone knew that!), but if she was seeking prenatal care, that meant she planned on keeping the baby. Now that was a shocker.

"I thought you were the smart one," Princess jeered, "It means I'm pregnant."

I rolled my eyes, "I knew that, Princess. Well, congratulations," I shrugged, "Hope you and your baby live happy lives together," I wished genuinely. Being a mom-to-be made me a nicer person, and I wasn't sure what else I could say to her.

"...Thanks," Princess replied, obviously surprised at my goodwill. "Well, Blossom, aren't you going to ask who the father is?"

I wasn't. It wasn't my business. Plus, Princess herself probably didn't know.

She didn't wait for me to respond, "I guess you wouldn't know him. I mean, he's rich, affluent, and successful. So no one you'd be aware of," she flipped her hair and gave a little victorious smirk.

Okay, that's it. "Try me," I grit my teeth.

She shrugged, "It's no use, but whatever. The father of my baby is Brick Jojo."

At the sound of his name, my eyes widened and I felt my body go numb. Brick? My Brick? The father of my baby was the father of Princess's too? I swallowed in shock, and if I wasn't so consumed in my own surprise, I would've noticed Sara behind me. She had heard our entire conversation and she too was frozen solid.

"Well?" Princess scoffed, "You are such a loser, Blossom. Whatever."

I frowned, "Goodbye, Princess."

She rolled her eyes, let out her little snobby wave and walked out of the office lobby.

I, however, was still numb. Logically, I guess it made sense because Brick and Princess did go out for a while, but a part of me had this feeling that Princess was up to no good. The only reason she was keeping the baby was probably just to force Brick to get back with her. But I doubt her plan would work. I mean, it was Brick. I let out the breath I forgot I was holding in as I turned to go to Sara's office. I was surprised to see Sara standing in the doorway, her eyes wide.

"What are you doing out here?" I asked, pleasantly surprised. I was slowly thawing, but I was still shocked.

"I just wanted to come get you myself," Sara explained. Then, quietly, "Blossom, what did Princess say about Brick Jojo?"

I gave a quizzical glance before answering her question, "She just said he was the father of her baby," I swallowed. I felt hot tears well up in the corner of my eyes. Brick was mine. How this happen to Princess too?

Sara softened, "Blossom, what happened?"

"Brick's the father of my baby too," I blurted. I let those tears fall, staining my face with red splotches and wetness. Sara gave me a comforting smile as she wrapped her arms around my shoulders and led me to her office.

"Blossom," she said gently, handing me a tissue. I sniffled, taking the tissue and wiping the damp spots on my face.

"Sorry," I croaked. "I just... I can't believe it... I know Brick's supposed hate me, but we were making real progress... I really thought we had something special," I whispered.

Sara bit her lip, almost apprehensive to show any emotion. Finally, she let out a content smile to herself, as if she was happy with my relationship with Brick. "I'm sure he'll come around, sweetie," she said reassuringly, "Princess doesn't hold a candle to you."

"T-Thanks," I wiped the last of my tears away. "I don't know what's going to happen with me and Brick, but..." I trailed. Suddenly, I was curious. Why was Sara talking to me about this? And why was she interested in Brick earlier? She knew something about him... But what? "Do you know Brick?" I asked curiously.

Sara stiffened at the mention of his name and I instantly regretted asking. The look of sadness, regret and pain flashed in her normally sparkling eyes. I couldn't say I wasn't still curious though. Actually, examining her face, she shared a lot of features with Brick... The red hair and creamy skin being the obvious ones, but her nose, cheekbones and chin resembled Brick's. She was probably old enough to be his mother...

"Okay, let's get started with your appointment. I'll bet we'll find out the gender today," Sara grinned. I grinned too, getting really excited all of a sudden.

She led me to the examining chair as she rolled up my crimson blouse and spread the cool gel on my slightly swollen abdomen. She brought out the ultrasound handheld and rubbed it across my belly, but instead of the screen facing me, it was facing her. I could she was smiling as she scrolled along, so that must've meant nothing major was wrong.

"Well?" I asked excitedly. "What am I having? A boy or a girl?" I had to suppress the urge to squeal.

"Both!" Sara replied happily.

"B-Both?" I whispered. Oh my gosh! My child was both? It didn't matter to me, but... Society wasn't so friendly to people who weren't completely one gender. How could I bring up my little boy (and girl) without him (and her!) feeling terrible about him(and her!)self. "I..."

Sara laughed at my somber reaction. How could she laugh at something like this? "Blossom, I meant you're having twins," she turned around the screen for me to see two little fetuses beside each other.

I squealed, "Oh my gosh!" I waved my hands zealously, "Twins?" What a relief!

"One boy, one girl," Sara clarified. I couldn't stop smiling. "Congratulations."

I could feel my eyes dampen, but the tears were ones of joy. "W-Why didn't we know it was twins before?" I inquired.

Sara shrugged, "One of them probably was in front of the other last month when we did this. It's not uncommon," she responded. "But both of them are looking great! And at this point in time, they've both developed reflexes like yawning, stretching, smiling and frowning."

I was ebullient! Twins! Twins! I eagerly listened as she told me more about my future children, but my mind was still bouncing. We talked a little more about my babies but my appointment was over soon. She gave me a print-out of the ultrasound and I decided I would get it framed.

As I left her office, I pulled out my phone and dialed Bubbles's and Buttercup's numbers. I had to tell them; we could conference.

"'Sup, Bloss?" Buttercup replied to my call.

"Blossom! Did you have your appointment?" Bubbles asked giddily.

"I'm doing great and yes, I just had my appointment. Guess what I'm having?" I grinned.

"What are you waiting for?" Buttercup exclaimed.

"Tell us! Tell us! Tell us!" Bubbles was probably bouncing up and down right now.

"I'm having twins! A boy and a girl!" I answered.

"OMIGOSH!" Bubbles cried.

"Congrats, sis," Buttercup replied, "So we get a niece and a nephew?"

"Yup! I'm so-" Just then, my phone beeped, signaling that someone was trying to call me on the other line. "I'm getting another call, but I'll talk to you girls at home! Love you!" I hung up on them and pulled my phone off my ear to see who had called me.

The ID read 'Dexter'. Ugh. I clicked the red button, rejecting his call, and shoved my phone into my pocket. I had agreed to lunch with him today, but that didn't mean I was going to talk to the guy more than I had to.

...

About six months ago, my long-time boyfriend Dexter and I split ways. He said I hindered his research and that he needed to get away and I never got love or affection from him anymore. It gotten pretty messy. It wasn't the break-up that bothered me, I guess it was the entire relationship. I really cared about him... I did everything for the guy and in the beginning he was really sweet, but as our relationship progressed, he opted for his experiments over me. It came to the point where I was completely ignored and left playing second fiddle to a lab. In retrospect, I wasn't upset after our split because Dexter left me, I was frustrated that I had wasted all my time and effort in a guy who didn't care about me. In a guy that took me for granted.

It hurt. I always thought Dexter would be the last person to do that in a world of jerks, but I was wrong. I hated that I fell for him and he pretty much used me. I was never going back to a guy like him. Especially not since I met a guy like Brick. Brick... Brick was nothing like Dexter. The feelings I had around him were emotions I never felt during my year-long relationship with Dexter.

So when Dexter called me up and asked me eat a -friendly- lunch with him, I was wary at first. But he seemed genuine and it had been a while since I'd seen him last. I agreed, thinking it couldn't hurt, but after saying yes, he's been calling me like all the time. I really don't want to talk that much to him; I'm only meeting him at that restaurant for... I don't even know why...

"Blossom!" Dexter stood up and waved as I stepped into the restaurant. I forced a smile as I walked over and took a seat in front of him. "Greetings."

"Hello, Dexter," I said congenially. Maybe this wouldn't be so bad after all.

"Have you gained weight?" Dexter asked objectively.

I narrowed my eyes in anger. How dare he ask that! "Excuse me?" I said, my voice dangerously low. Okay, I was wrong. This was going to be terrible.

I think I scared him into silence because he didn't say a word to me until we had gone through our appetizers and entrees. It was during dessert that he started again.

"You must be curious as to why I've invited you to lunch today," Dexter started. I slowly nodded as I took a bite of my chocolate cake. He continued, "After the end of our romantic relationship, I noticed a direct decline in my research and my productivity. I have tried an assortment of remedies, but alas," Dexter looked down, then back up at me, "None have been an adequate substitute for your emotional and occasionally intellectual support."

"Are you saying you want to get back with me because your research is less productive?" I exclaimed, outraged. "This whole lunch was a ploy to get me back?"

Dexter shrugged, "Call it what you want. But it is the truth."

"I-You just expect me to come back to you? Like that?" I asked, incredulously. Maybe I was overreacting. Whatever, pregnancy hormones.

"Blossom, I meant..." Dexter tried to explain himself. The waiter came by and dropped off the check, and after splitting the bill, Dexter suggested we take a walk. He didn't say anything for a while until, "I apologize for what I said earlier. It was not polite of me."

I huffed. I wasn't okay with it, but I couldn't leave an apology hanging, "It's okay."

"Blossom, is there any chance we'll get back together?" Dexter asked, stopping to turn towards me, his hands fidgeting behind his back.

I gave him an apologetic smile, "I'm sorry Dexter, I've moved on." Dexter was being really considerate and I appreciated that.

At my response, he glowered, "You're making a mistake, Blossom. You'll never-"

Never mind. Scratch that. "I'll never what?" I spat. Damn mood swings. "Be taken for granted like that ever again?"

"You'll never find anyone better than me!" Dexter threw his hands in the air. "Don't you see that?"

"No, I don't see-" my train of thought was cut short.

"Blossom, babe!" a strong set of arms wrapped around my waist as they pulled me closer into a kiss. I had no idea who it was, and I really didn't care as long as it got me away from Dexter. I mean, after all- Brick! It was Brick! No one else kisses that well. Erm, insert nervous chuckle here.

I grinned, "Brick," I turned around to face him, so incredibly relieved.

"Is this guy bothering you?" Brick asked, scanning gaunt Dexter intensely in intimidation.

Dexter paled, "Not at all. It was nice seeing you, Blossom," he said hurriedly as he left.

After he rushed off, I let out a sigh of relief, "I can't thank you enough for that, Brick," I said earnestly.

Brick grinned, "No prob. Crazy exes are the worst," he replied. Crazy exes... Did that include Princess? Does he know about his baby with her?

"Tell me about it. Anyways... Speaking of exes..." I started, trying to be subtle, "Have you talked to Princess lately?"

At the mention of her name, his eyes immediately darkened, "Yeah. And I bet you have too. She tell you she's pregnant with my kid?"

"Y-Yeah, actually she did," I replied, a little surprised at the tone of his voice. He seemed angry. "Are you alright?" I asked.

Brick shrugged, "Yeah, I'm fine. It's just kinda pathetic of her to do that. I've been slammed with more than enough paternity suits to know better. She's a whore and I don't believe for a second that the kid's mine," he finished coolly. I couldn't believe he actually just said that!

"So all women who get pregnant are whores?" I spat.

Brick raised an eyebrow, "What's wrong with you?" he reached out to put an arm on my shoulder.

"Nothing," I shrugged away his hand, "You're an ass, Brick. Imagine what Princess is going through right now!" I nearly yelled, "You've got no right to talk about her like that!"

"It's public information," Brick said slowly, "Why are you so riled up?"

"Because, Brick Jojo, you're a douche. I don't ever want to see your face again!" I screamed before storming off.

...

The other day, Boomer called our house and I picked up by accident. I guess I just didn't realize it was him until it was too late. On the phone, he was begging me to meet him so he could explain his side of the story. I felt sorry for him, and I hated seeing Bubbles not happy, so I went out to meet him. Hopefully we'd be able to sort things out.

I don't care if my life's screwed up, but I don't want my sister's to be. Brick probably hates me after I yelled at him like that last week. But what he said was unbelievable... How could he talk so casually about those things? There was no way I could tell him about my (our...) babies now.

Back to Boomer. This better be good...

"Boomer, you've got five minutes to explain yourself," I told the blond. "I'm only here because I care about Bubbles."

"Good, because I care about her too," Boomer replied, shaking me away from my thoughts. "And just hear me out! It was a complete misunderstanding..."

(Flashback- Omniscient POV)

It was almost three and Bubbles would be here soon. Her kindergarten class got over ten minutes after the high school's 7th period was dismissed and Bubbles always came over to Boomer's classroom to keep him company.

Today was an early-dismissal day, so Bubbles got off work a little earlier. She decided to surprise Boomer, but he had no clue. In fact, as soon as class got over, he was surprised enough by the appearance of an old... 'friend'.

"Princess?" Boomer looked at her quizzically. "What are you doing here? And what are those flowers for?"

Princess looked down to the bouquet of yellow flowers in her hands and shrugged, "It was from one of my many admirers. But I came here because I need some help. I need to ask you a question, Boomer... About your brother."

"Which one?" Boomer asked slowly, knowing that talking to Princess was like walking on thin ice; it never ended well.

"Brick," Princess answered, rolling her eyes, "Who else would I be talking about? Anyway, what does he say about me?"

"He's never really mentioned you..." Boomer replied, knowing it was a lie. Brick had complained about Princess in the past, but Boomer didn't want to hurt any feelings.

"Oh," Princess looked taken aback, "Well, surely he talks about me! Think harder!"

"Well, I..." Boomer wasn't sure what to say.

"Ugh, this is hopeless!" Princess groaned. Suddenly, her frown turned upside down, curling into a smile, "Say, Boomer, you don't have a girlfriend, do you?"

"Yeah, actually I do..." Boomer inched away from Princess. In response, she just pressed closer to him.

"What do you say about her?" she asked curiously.

Boomer wasn't sure where Princess was going with this, but he didn't see any reason to not reply, "Well, I don't really talk to my brothers about her, but I tell her that..." Boomer paused, "Well, I want to tell her that, 'You're the most beautiful girl in the world. I think I'm in love with you because you're absolutely the most wonderful person I've ever met and-'"

"Boomer Jojo, you stop right there!" a soft, shaking voice commanded.

"Bubbles!" Boomer spun around to see his beautiful blonde girlfriend's eyes red with tears. Suddenly, he became aware of what the situation looked like. "No! God, NO! It's not what you think!"

Bubbles lip quivered, "Boomer, I can't believe you! I really, really liked you and you're here all over Princess? You got her flowers and you said those things to her?" Bubbles exclaimed. She wiped her tears with the corner of her sleeve, "We are over! I never want to you ever again, Boomer Jojo! Congratulations, you broke my heart!" she cried before running off.

"Bubbles, wait!" Boomer called out after her. He pushed Princess off of him and dashed out of his classroom to see where she went, but it was too late.

"Wow, what a loser," Princess scoffed, "I never liked her or her sisters anyway," she said snootily.

"Shut up, Princess. And get out of my classroom," Boomer demanded bitterly.

(End of Flashback- Back to Blossom POV)

"W-Wow," was all I could muster, "It was really a big misunderstanding?"

Boomer nodded earnestly, "Blossom, these past few weeks without Bubbles have been the worst."

"If it was all an accident, then why didn't you tell her?" I asked.

"You don't think I tried?" Boomer exclaimed. "She won't answer her phone or her messages and she unfriended me on Facebook. Blossom, she hates me!"

"No she doesn't," I shook my head, "Boomer, she's been miserable too. I've never seen her this hung up over a guy. Ever. And there's been a lot of guys."

"R-Really?" Boomer choked out.

I nodded my head, "You two are meant for each other," I told him, "I'll figure something out and let you know, alright?"

"Wow, thank you so much, Blossom!" Boomer said thankfully. "You're the best!"

I smiled and nodded my head, "I know."

...

After leaving Boomer, I had put some thought into how I could get him back with Bubbles as I walked home. There was a lot of options before me, but I had to pick something that'd work. Unfortunately, as I walked by the park, my thoughts were interrupted by an obnoxious Jojo.

"Hey there, Doc. Looking niiiice."

I spun around to see Butch Jojo grinning licentiously at me and I glared, "Don't you have a girlfriend to go bother?" I raised an eyebrow.

He shrugged as he walked over to me, falling to my pace, "I skipped my follow-up appointment with you and I heard that was bad, so-"

"So you're trying to make it up while I'm on my walk?" I finished for him. I stopped, as did he, and I took a look at him. I peered around for his scrapes, that looked like they healed and the CT scan from right before his discharge was clear, so his concussion had healed. I was about to tell him he was fine until I something out of the corner of my eye. It looked like a black-haired girl of Buttercup's build in a steamy liplock with a tall, greasy-haired, almost green-skinned man who looked like-

Ace. It was Ace. Oh god, it was Buttercup too! What were they doing in the middle of the park? Kissing in broad daylight? Anyone could see them, including Butch. Oh, god.

"Hmm, I think there might be minor disphageal scarring on your right side," I randomly made up some medical mumbo-jumbo to keep Butch's attention. Oooh, Buttercup better have a good explanation for this!

Butch paled, "Is that bad?" he swallowed, nervous.

"Well, it can be if it's not spotted early enough," I reassured him. I was just distracting him, I didn't want to scare him!

"Okay, okay..." Butch started to nod slowly, "Do I need to get to a hospital?"

"Actually, it affects your optical nerves," I continued my improvisation, "So you should turn away from the sun so your eyes aren't strained," I gripped his shoulders and turned him so that his back was completely facing Buttercup.

"What do I need to do, Doc?" Butch asked.

"Well, there are a few-"

"What the hell?" Butch saw a reflection in the window of a car parked on the side of the street. He spun around to see Ace and Buttercup ending their kiss and he turned red. I heard a growl as he rolled up his sleeves and stormed over to Ace.

"Butch! What are you doing here?" Buttercup cried. As he readied to punch the lights out of Ace, Buttercup held him back, "Are you fricking insane? What are you doing?"

"Punching this slimeball. Why the hell were his lips all over yours?" Butch said menacingly as he grabbed Ace's collar and lifted him off the ground. But Ace wasn't fazed. That stupid self-satisfied grin was slapped on his face.

"I think Butters would know the answer to that," Ace said wickedly. Butch looked over to Buttercup, raising an eyebrow, as if to ask 'can I hurt him already?'.

"I..." Buttercup started, "I kissed him."

"What?" Butch whispered, dropping Ace unceremoniously on the ground, "It was you? Why?" Butch asked, his voice barely a whisper.

...

It had been three weeks since I talked to Brick last, two since I ran into Boomer and Butch. I had no idea what was going on between Buttercup and Butch and I still hadn't come up with a genius plan to get Bubbles and Boomer back together, but in my defense, I've been super busy lately.

Not only have I been operating and seeing patients like usual, but I've been running around trying to gather evidence for those lawsuits. I've had to sort through piles of paperwork and revisit surgeries from months ago to collect information that would support me, but I still haven't been able to find much. It's not that I'm a bad doctor and I really did mess up (because I know I didn't!), I'm just a bad at being a lawyer. And to top it all off, I was freaking pregnant!

I was eating all the time and it was definitely starting to show. What I had three weeks when I last saw Sara was barely anything. My abdomen was expanding and my pregnancy would be pretty clear in a few weeks. I had bought a few maternity clothes already, but thankfully, I didn't need them yet. Today, I was wearing this cute baby pink blouse that billowed around my tummy, hiding my growing swell. A pair of white trousers and an unbuttoned white sparkly sweater, along with pink swirly dangling earrings and pink pumps, finished off the outfit.

In short, I looked pretty good. But that wasn't going to stop me from getting sued. Hell, I didn't even know when I was getting sued. Brick still hadn't faxed over our new courtdates. Ugh. Maybe Isabelle could help.

"Has Mr. Jojo's office sent the rescheduling of our cases yet?" I asked her. "It's been weeks since I asked him to," I told Isabelle, "Do you have them?" I asked her, leaning against her desk.

She shook her head, "No, I haven't recieved any new dates, but his office faxed this over a few hours ago," she handed me a piece of paper.

"Thanks, Isabelle," I took it with a smile as I headed back to my office. I wonder what it said...?

Blossom,

I reviewed the cases I filed against you and came to the conclusion that my evidence wasn't substantial. In light of this conclusion, I have no other choice than to drop the fourteen cases. So don't expect any rescheduled courtdates.

Brick

He... He... He completely dropped every case he was going to sue me for.

What the hell?

...

I kept rereading his fax over and over again, looking for the clue that would signal to me that it was a joke. But I couldn't find it. And it was unnerving. Sure, if he really did drop the cases, I was getting off the hook. I could stop freaking out about all of those lawsuits and finally focus on some more important things. But... After what I said to him that day in the park... If he dropped those cases, something must've changed. And I was getting a bad feeling that it wasn't a good change.

Maybe it was the hormone oxycotin kicking in, giving me these overly caring (almost maternal) instincts, but I sensed that something was wrong with Brick. I think I was genuinely worried. My mind was on Brick as I sped down the highway. Finally, the exit came and pulled into the parking lot of Townsville Office Park. I parked my car, entered the building, hopped up the stairs and headed for his office. I could see the office was empty, only Brick laying his head on his desk.

I knocked softly, alerting him of my presence as I walked into his expansive office. His head slowly rose up and I took a closer look at the man before me; he was a mess. His hair was disheveled, his eyes surrounded by bags of weariness, an empty bottle of scotch on the floor beside me. Oh my gosh, what happened?

"Brick, are you alright?" I asked softly.

"Yeah, whatever," Brick muttered.

"Why did you drop those lawsuits?" I stepped closer to him, clutching my purse to my side, desperate to hold onto something. It was terrifying seeing Brick, one of the strongest, most self-sufficient and self-confident men I knew, like this.

"I told you," he replied tersely, rubbing his sullen eyes. "Do you want me to sue you?"

"Of course not," I answered gently, taking another step towards his desk. As I did, an envelope on the mahogany wood came into my sight. It was placed as far away as he could put it, but I soon realized it wasn't distant from his thoughts. "What's that?" I asked, motioning to the beige envelope.

Brick shut his eyes tightly as he replied, "A letter from my mother."

I smiled, "That's great! Why haven't you opened it yet?" I tilted my head to one side, looking at him.

"Because I never had a mom," Brick murmured. I felt my heart thump out of my chest.

Okay, our mom died when we were born, but Ms. Keane filled her shoes and loved us like we were her own. She nurtured us since that day we stepped into her kindergarten classroom and she never let us feel like we didn't have a mother.

So, I didn't know what to say to Brick... I wasn't as unfortunate as he was, but I knew he'd hate it I showed pity. Instead of saying anything, I moved to his side and rested my hand on his shoulder comfortingly.

He softened at my gesture and continued, "Our dad may have been eccentric, he may have had his quirks, but he loved us. He took care of us. He never turned his back on us like our mother did."

"Brick..." I whispered, my heart going out to him.

He swallowed, "He loved her so much... I never understood why. It hurt him too much to talk about her. He only told us about her once... When we turned ten. But he never mentioned her again."

"What'd he say?" I asked, gently. I looked into his deep eyes, giving him a reassuring smile. It was easy to tell that Brick had been bottling this up and it was time for him to let it out.

"He said that we were just like her. Boomer was caring and sensitive, like she was. Butch was persistent and dedicated, just like her. And me? I was strong, intelligent and had a heart of gold... Just like she did," Brick closed his eyes, trying to hold back his emotions.

"She sounds like a great person," I commented, trying to uplift the somber mood.

Brick's eyes turned red as anger flashed in his orbs, "No, Blossom! Don't you see?" he exclaimed, "If she was so great, why did she leave us? Why did she abandon her children? What kind of heartless bitch could do that?"

I was frozen in shock, "Brick, how could you say that about your own mother? I know what she did was terrible, but-"

"She had her reasons, right?" Brick smirked sardonically, his voice dripping with bitterness. He gave a mirthless laugh, "And when I asked Dad why she left? You know what he said? He said that was she was young; that she had dreams. She wanted to be a doctor."

It all made sense now.

That's why Brick hated doctors so much. His own mother left him to go to medical school and he grew up feeling abandoned and rejected. His feelings festered and his hatred for medical professionals probably grew and since he had had no stable female figure in his life, he went from woman to woman. He wasn't in a stable relationship because he didn't know how. He didn't have the love and affection of a mother growing up and as a adult, he didn't know how to give that to another woman.

I didn't know what to say. I mean, what could I? I wrapped my arms around Brick, engulfing him a warm, caring hug.

He was about to start another tirade, but my embrace silenced him. Instead of yelling out his frustrations, he rested his chin on my shoulder and let them all melt away.

"I hate her," he finally murmured, his forehead resting on the crook of my neck.

"Brick..." I pulled back from the hug so I could see him eye-to-eye, "I know she left and I know that must have hurt you so much, but... You don't even know her," I said gently, "You're a great guy and I think you should give her a chance to be a part of your life. Maybe you'll actually like her," I suggested with a warm smile as I peeled open the envelope and handed him the folded letter.

Brick's eyes narrowed, "I don't want to. She doesn't deserve a second chance. Not after what she did," he said venomously as he balled up her letter and violently threw it in the trashcan.

"Don't do it for her. Do it for you," I pulled out the letter and uncrinkled, handing it to Brick, "If you don't at least read this, you'll be questioning this moment for the rest of your life."

Brick couldn't think of a reply until he finally let out a grunt of agreement, snatching the letter from my hand.

"Go on," I whispered encouragingly. He took in a deep breath as he looked down at the parchment and read it aloud.

My dearest Brick,

I've heard so many wonderful things about you from the people of this town. They say you're an amazing man. It makes me proud to think I supplied such an incredible person with half of his genome, but I'm so ashamed I can't call myself your mother.

I know you must hate me. If you're anything like me at all, Brick, you must be harboring a terrible hatred for me. It's understandable, justified, completely warranted. What I did to you and your two brothers was horrible and absolutely unforgivable. You probably don't want the least to do with me.

You're asking yourself, 'Why did this cruel bitch write to me now?'. It's been 25 years since she left me and she's just decided to contact me? To be honest, Brick, I'm surprised this letter isn't sitting in the trash and that you're actually reading this. But... Brick, I wanted to come back into your life. I really, really did.

But I couldn't. I couldn't cause any more pain to you, your brothers, or your father. I kept telling myself that if I stayed out of your lives, you'd forget me, heal and move on. But I knew I created a hole in your heart that would never be healed. And everyday, I knew that hole would get bigger.

Brick, I want you to know that I love you. I love you so much. I have been awful at showing it, but I promise, not a day goes by that I don't think of you, your brothers and Moe. I am so ashamed that I abandoned you. That I hurt you. Brick, it hurts me so much that I've hurt you.

I apologize for the tear stains on this letter. I doubt a few words written on some fancy paper will change your mind and opinion of me, but I needed to let you know how much I care about you. If you never want to see me, I completely understand. But if you do, I will always be available.

Sincerely,

"Okay, I can't read that signature," Brick finished. He put the paper down and looked at me for my response. I knew I must've looked terrible, with tears flowing down my face. But that letter was so powerful... I wiped my tears and gave Brick a confident smile.

"That was beautiful," I murmured.

He simply nodded, opened a desk drawer, placed the letter inside and looked back up at me. Rubbing his eyes a final time and running a hand through his rich red hair, he said, "I'm sorry."

"Don't be," I said simply. He frowned. "Brick, it's okay to be human."

I thought I didn't care about him. I thought I had convinced myself that he was jerk. But he wasn't. He was cocky, arrogant and self-assured. He was annoying, angry and a pig. But he was human. He had feelings and frustrations and emotions just like everyone else. He had this charm and when I was with him, I always felt complete.

Brick was far from perfect. But then again, so was I. But I think we were perfect for each other.

"To answer your earlier question, Blossom," Brick returned to his usual composure, "I have no interest in wasting my time suing you anymore."

I grinned, "That's great," I replied, relieved. Looks like good ol' Brick is back.

"And if we could completely forget this ever happened, that'd be great too," Brick added.

"Not a chance," I responded with a warm smile. Brick glared. "I think it's really sweet that you opened up to me."

Brick let out a defeated smile, "Yeah, well, I know I can trust you, Blossom," he replied.

Suddenly, I felt awkward. Even after those horrible things I called him, he still felt comfortable around me? "Brick," I looked down, afraid to face him, "I'm sorry about what I said a few weeks ago," I heard my voice crack as tears formed in the corner of my eyes. God, I could not cry again! But it was true, I really was sorry. But I was terrified too. If Brick reacted like that to Princess, there was no way I could ever tell him about me!

"Don't be," he mirrored my earlier statement.

"I should be," I whispered. "It was terrible of me to say." It really was. He had no idea why I was so frustrated and I don't think he ever would. I don't think he'll ever know.

"Blossom, shut up," Brick demanded, his signature smirk upon his lips. I was about to respond, but he cut me off with a breathtaking kiss.

"Brick..." I murmured as I pulled away from the kiss, "I like you," I blurted out.

"I like you too," Brick whispered, grinning back at me.

...

Blossom's having twins! I wonder what she'll name them...? If you've got some cute name ideas, leave 'em in a review!

I really hoped y'all enjoyed this. And if you've got some Buttercup/Butch plot ideas, PLEASE don't hesitate to let me know!

And as always, I do love reviews. They make me feel all happy and fuzzy inside. So leave one! Tee hee C: