BREAKFAST AND SHOPPING

The next day Adrian awoke to an empty bed, and was very disappointed to believe that she had dreamed the whole thing, until the smell of cinnamon gave her hope again. She quickly found her robe and put it on and opened her bedroom door to see Ben in the kitchen making breakfast with Mercy sitting in a highchair. She was just as happy today as she was the day before when she realized this wish was real. She then went into the kitchen and kissed Ben on the cheek as he placed the French toast out of the pan, and onto a nearby plate.

So what is all this she asked her husband as he began working on another set of toast for breakfast. Well since I won't be able to make dinner tonight I thought that I would make breakfast this morning for my girls. This way you have plenty of energy to do whatever it is you have to do today he said with a laugh. Oh so you want me to spend the day shopping for your Christmas present I believe she said smiling at him, as she got out the orange juice, and glasses. Well, if you haven't gotten it yet, I wanted to makes sure I gave you energy to shop for a good one. Okay Ben, I get your meaning just make sure my gift from you is just as good she said. Wondering if the gift she got him before the wish was still good enough.

As Ben heard Adrian mention her gift he wondered to himself also if the gift he got her was still where he placed it. He had spent a lot of time thinking about the gift before he got it and didn't know if it was appropriate to give to Adrian since they were just friends. But, now he knew that the gift he had gotten was perfect for this occasion. It was at this moment that they both heard a knock on the door, which even caused Mercy to look up from her breakfast of baby cereal and juice in a bottle.

Are we expecting anyone Ben asked Adrian as he looked at her, since she did not seemed that surprised. Yeah, we are she said smiling at him and headed to open the door.. Hi Adrian, Amy said with John in her arms, and giving her a hug, Merry Christmas. Hi Amy, she said returning her hug and welcoming she John and Ricky into the condo. What are you guys doing here Ben asked as he came into the living room shocked to see them. Well Adrian called and said that she wanted me stop by, and I decided to bring Ricky since his car is in the shop, and John has been missing Mercy as well.

Amy placed John on the ground who quickly ran to Ben , and asked to be held by him. Hey buddy Ben said picking John up and holding him closely. He was surprised how relaxed they all were together, since the last time they were all together like this Ben, and Adrian, had severed all ties with Amy and Ricky which included their relationship with John. But, then he remembered that in this world with Mercy, he and Adrian never split, and she never wanted Ricky back. Which is something Adrian had figured the day before which is why she called Amy and asked her to stop by.

So, what's for breakfast Ricky asked as he smelled the delicious cinnamon smell coming from the kitchen. French toast, eggs, sausage, and fruit Ben said as Ricky went into the kitchen past Ben and toward the high chair to pick up a now giggling Mercy happy to see him. Well it seems we came at just the right time didn't we Ricky said as he kissed Mercy and tickled her tummy. Oh come on Ricky Amy said we just had breakfast at home. No, Ricky said we had a bowl of oatmeal at home not one of Ben's five star breakfast buffet's he said getting a plate from the shelf.

Well, we do have enough for all of us Ben said as he placed John in a chair and began making him a plate of food as well. Please Ben, you have enough food for an army Amy said as she also took a place, at the dining table. Tell me about it Adrian said, I never can tell why he always cooks so much when there are only a few of us she said taking a place. Well, he is Italian, Ricky said as he and Ben began to get plates and silverware for their families. What is that supposed to mean, Ben asked a little offended at Ricky's comment. I'm just saying Ben, Italian's are famous for having big families and even more famous for preparing big meals for their families. Hey that is just a stereotype Ben implied as he brought out a huge plate of French toast and eggs.

Oh yeah then besides you and Adrian why did you make enough food for family of twelve, he said getting the orange juice and fruit from the refrigerator. I just wanted to make sure my family was well fed Ben replied. Yeah right Ricky said, Adrian better be careful or she might get fat, or in other case scenarios prepare to have a lot more kids he said laughing. This comment made Adrian take on a serious note remembering her weight gain after Mercy's death, and also a little happy to think that she and Ben would once again have more children. Adrian are you okay Amy asked as she looked at Adrian with a worried tone after noticing her expression. I'm fine Adrian replied, coming back to the moment. I just thought how many kids Ben does want to have in the far, far, future she said, with a mischievous face looking at Ben..

Ben, gulped hard as he heard what Adrian had told him about having more children, but the thought of being a father again always had its merits to him. He had those thoughts when he discovered Adrian was trying to get pregnant again when he and she started their separation. Initially after Mercy died he wanted to leave, because of his grief and depression. But, then when his father told him of her plot to have another child, he realized that he and Adrian were both still very young and could start a family later when both were truly prepared be parents. Now that they were parents in this world the thought still had the same effect as he sat at the head of the table.

Adrian then looked at Amy and Ricky, and said don't worry Ben Boykewich won't have me barefoot and pregnant any time soon she said, taking Ben's hand in her own and kissing it. Oh how sweet, Amy said looking at the two of them, and Mercy. Ricky, she asked looking a little jealous how come we don't do stuff like that around others. Because, unlike Ben Ricky said with a smirk, "I'm not that whipped." Excuse me Ben asked becoming angry. I'm whipped. "Mr. I'm Not Gonna Live With Anyone" until I'm Married., Ben replied sharply.

This embarrassed Ricky who remembered his words to Ben , about Amy moving in with him. Yeah Ricky, Adrian said smiling proudly at her husbands snappy comeback, how did that work out for you. Yes, Ricky explain it to all of us said Amy folding her arms and looking at Ricky with a smile and a homicidal look. Okay, so maybe there are instances where I let Amy get the better of me he said a little shocked at Ben's ability to one up him. Yeah Right, Mr. Underwood Amy said flashing her engagement ring in front of him, I guess that's why I'm engaged to you right now as well.

Yeah, Ricky Ben said now taking his friends humiliation to a new level, so which one of us is more whipped. Fine, Ricky said having being the center of attention for to long I guess Ben, has more control over his relationship than I do in mine he said angrily. Ricky, its not about control Adrian said looking at him with concern, its about doing things that make the other person happy. Ben knew that us being married would make both of us happy. Just like Amy knew you two living together would make both of you happy as well. Also how you realized getting engaged would have the same effect Ben chimed in. Alright, that is enough of Embarrass Ricky Day can we all eat now.

Of course but first Adrian said, taking Ben's hand and Mercy's. Amy caught on to what Adrian was doing and grabbed Ben's hand since they were seated oppositely, and Ricky's . Ricky then touched John's hand who also grabbed Mercy's. Then the two families silently prayed for a moment together, each making a silent prayer for one another and their families and children. But, Adrian an d Ben both gave thanks to God and their prospective angels Sarah, and Antonio who gave them this great gift.

As they all finished breakfast, Amy and Ricky volunteered to do the dishes as a way of being polite, while Adrian got dressed. At the same time Ben took John and Mercy into the nursery to play. The three had such a fun time playing with all of Mercy's stuffed animals and dolls. John played with a large teddy bear in the corner which was bigger than him, and he enjoyed tackling the giant teddy bear, as Mercy watched and laughed in amazement. Ben, looked on also amused at the acts of the young boy.

He also was a little defensive since he believed that John was actually doing all this as a way to impress Mercy, which Ben thought reminded him of Ricky. But, Ben quickly lost that thought as he saw Mercy get up from the floor and grab, his own stuffed teddy bear off the ground and hug it tightly to her before running back to his arms. This made Ben cry as he held his daughter for a moment remembering how he did the same with his own father so long ago.

It was in that instance that Adrian came into the nursery and saw the sight. She to remembered the bear that Ben had told her about, and got out her cell phone and quickly snapped a picture of her family before coming into the room. As she knocked, Ben quickly wiped his tears and put on a large smile to hide his former look. Adrian was wearing a red sweater with a white turtle neck which accentuated her curves, with black jeans and white boots with fur. She lifted her daughter who was wearing a similar outfit in color but she also had on golden earrings in her small ears. Adrian then asked Ben if he had packed Mercy's bag, or was he too busy playing to do so..

I packed it he said grabbing the bag out of the corner and handing it too her. I also put in two changes of clothes eight diapers, a box of wet wipes, and two dolls that she could play with. Her sippy cup has orange juice, two bottles of milk, and a box of animal crackers. Did you also throw in a life raft, and poison kit Adrian asked with a tease. No,. but I could he said taking her in his arms and kissing her. Okay Mister she said breaking free from his grasp, we have to run, but make sure you take a change of clothes with you to Ricky's tonight, and change there. Why Ben asked puzzled at her request. Amy and I have a surprise for both of you so just do it she said taking Mercy and the bag in her arms. Alright he said as she left the room.

Amy I'm ready to go, Adrian said as she entered into the living room okay she said coming from the kitchen, and getting her jacket. So, Ben you are okay giving Ricky a ride to work this afternoon aren't you Amy said taking John from Ben who carried him from his fight with the big teddy bear. It's okay Amy, we still have two hours before works so we got it he said. Okay see you guys, they both said as Amy and Adrian kissed their significant others and headed out the door.

So where are they going Ben asked as he and Ricky stood alone in the condo? I have no idea, Ricky replied back to him. All I know is Adrian called yesterday and was a little surprised at how I spoke to her and asked to talk with Amy. Then Amy told me that she would be with Adrian all day today until tonight after work so I should look to you to be my driver for the day. Your driver for the day Ben said, I thought you didn't like being driven around, Ben asked. I don't but, my PRIAS is in the shop getting a new battery, Ricky said dryly.

So the environmentally friendly bad boy Ricky Underwood doesn't know how to fix his own car Ben laughed. Like you know how to fix a car Ricky said, with a glare. Actually I do Ben said with a look of pride, Mike taught me about engines while I was growing up. So let me get this straight, Ricky asked. You can cook, and you can fix a car but you don't like being stereotyped as an Italian? Hey not all Italian's can cook and fix cars Ben said with a temper. Maybe, Ricky fired back but it still surprises me that you an Italian who grew up with a silver spoon in his mouth still know how to do all those things. It's just a coincidence Ben said, as he left the room to get dressed for work. Yeah right, Ricky fired back as he sat down on the sofa and started watching the t. v. to wait for Ben..

ADRIAN AND AMY

So, how is married life Adrian, Amy asked her as they unloaded their children from the car and placed them in the double stroller. The girls decided to take Amy's car since it was bigger. Adrian decided that

she would keep her car even before she and Ben were married. Adrian decided that if either of them would get a minivan or an SUV for their daughter after she was born it would be Ben. Something Ben was not happy about since Adrian drove a "97 Ford Mustang" and he drove a "08 Mercedes XL". But Adrian let him know that she loved her car, and even if she did give it up she would have to drive his. So both parents kept their prospective vehicles, even in this world since both vehicles could support a child safety seat.

Well, after last night Adrian said thinking back to the day before she spent with her family it's terrific. That's great Amy said as they both went into the mall with their kids and went looking into the stores to finish their Christmas Shopping. Adrian felt happy to be here with Amy with their children in tow. Deep down, she always liked Amy and was kind of encouraged by her for being able to go to school, and raise John. Even though they had their dispute over Ricky, Amy always impressed Adrian with how she could stick to her guns and fight for what she wanted. Which she thought was probably why Ricky chose her over her.

In her own deep secrets she never really wanted Ricky back, but wanted to see if she could have the life Amy had with Ricky since she and Ben were denied that life with Mercy. She really wanted Ricky back primarily because of John who she had grown to love as if he were her own son, Ricky was just a bonus. But, another reason was because she didn't believe that she and Ben could make it if she did choose him seeing as they fell apart after Mercy died.

But, Adrian later realized Ben and she were both only going through grief which she had learned from a counselor that her father made her see is what actually caused the downfall of her marriage and several other relationships following the death of a child. The counselor who also lost a child informed Adrian that Ben's actions were typical for a father to lose control after the death of his child. Adrian found out that Ben actually wanted to leave because he felt powerless, and less of a man since he could not protect his child from death. Adrian also discovered Ben turning to drink and other bad habits was normal as well since many also turned to self destructive methods as a way to deal with their guilt and grief

The counselor also helped Adrian to realize that Ben was quite mature for someone so young to deal with the situation for so long without becoming dependant on this type of behavior. She realized through her own relationship with Omar and Dante that she also turned to self destructive habits as a way to cope with the loss as well. It was when it came time to sign the final divorce papers at the beginning of December that Adrian realized she did not want to walk away from her marriage, and lose the man that she realized she was still in love with that made her regret all of her past mistakes.

Now in this world she was happy that none of those horrible things had happened. She didn't ruin her relationship with Amy in an attempt to get back Ricky. She didn't get involved with two brothers who were both to old and too troublesome for her. And she was very happy that she didn't sleep with Henry and ruin his and Ben's friendship as well her own with Henry and Alice. But, most importantly she was very happy that she still had Ben as her husband, and her daughter Mercy, even if it were only for another day and a few hours.

So how is the life of the modern engaged couple Adrian asked Amy as both began to patrol the several men's stores in the mall to look for gifts for Ben and Ricky. Well, it is a little difficult living in a small apartment with Ricky and I in the living room, but I love being close to Ricky and John. Amy said, but she hesitated in her statement which caused Adrian to wonder. So she looked at Amy and said BUTTTT? But, Amy replied I just wonder if I am ready to be married, this young Amy said looking at Adrian.

This statement surprised Adrian, who assumed that Amy would be thrilled to be marrying Ricky instead of Ben. She thought that Ricky was the man that she always wanted so she asked Amy about her feelings. So what brought that out Adrian asked looking worried about Amy. Well, I look at you and Ben and I am thrilled to be marrying Ricky, but then I look at my friends, and other girls my age who are dating so many other great guys, and having so much fun and I wonder if I am giving up so much she said a little ashamed of her remark.

So, you feel like you are missing out because you and Ricky will be stuck together for life Adrian replied as she and Amy continued to walk. Unfortunately yes Amy answered her back. Ricky, was my first and even though I love John, and would never give him up for anything in the world, I wonder if I am giving up something and just settling for Ricky because he is John's father, she replied. Do you ever feel like that with Ben, she asked. I mean I know that you love he and Mercy but do you ever feel like you are missing out. You gave up Ricky, and your other life of freedom and everything to be married.

Adrian looked at Amy with an expression of love & understanding for her plight, Adrian knew exactly what Amy was talking about. After she and Ben broke up she did feel a bit relieved to have her freedom and her life back as she thought but there was also something else that she missed. So she confided in Amy all her feeling about the situation. Amy I definitely know what you are talking about, but trust me freedom is not all it's cracked up to be.

Amy I could go out to parties, and dance with great good looking guys and even take them back home to have my way with them or them with me but it's all empty. The feelings you get when you are doing all those things only last for a moment, and when the moment is over you are left with nothing but, guilt, shame, and loneliness. When I used to do those things I thought I was lucky until the next day when I would have took at myself in the mirror. Why was that Amy asked looking at her with a shock at Adrian's confession. Because I didn't like myself when I did those things, and I missed Ben.

What do you mean Amy asked a little puzzled at her last statement. Adrian, then thought fast since she realized that none of those things happened in this world. I mean, I missed being able to wake up with the man I knew I loved. Someone who loved me, and accepted me for all my flaws and faults and still had faith in me. I missed being able to just stay home with someone and watch a stupid movie just because it feels nice to be in his arms. I remember back before I even knew Ben or Ricky, and even though I had lots of freedom I didn't really have a home. That is what Ben and Mercy give me a home. A place where I know I am accepted and appreciated. Not for my body or what I do, but for who I am which is why I love being with Ben, and Mercy;

With them I can truly be me, myself. A woman who gets to play with dolls with a little girl because it takes me back to happier times. I don't have to wear a ton of make up and provocative clothes to get a guys attention. I can be wearing sweats, and be fat, and I know Ben will always be there and think I am the sexiest woman in the world. I can be studying and he brings me tea so I can stay up without even having to ask. Being married means that when you are at your lowest someone is always there to pick you up, which is what Ben does for me, as she remembered how Ben was there for her after Mercy's death.

But, it still works both ways, Amy no one can do it alone not Ben, and not Ricky. You have to be just as strong for Ricky as he is for you. Something Adrian regretted not being for Ben as she remembered how much she realized he was hurting during her session with the counselor. Ben, and Ricky are like us. What do you mean Amy asked trying to figure the similarities between them. Amy try and deny it as much as we want you and I are similar we just chose different paths because of our lives. The same can be said for Ben and Ricky

Ricky and Ben are both strong good guys who learn to adapt and adjust to their lives as they change. But both do their best to make us happy. Ben and Ricky both keep their feelings about some things locked inside and hidden from us to protect us from their pain. They do it not to worry us, and because they don't want to make us unhappy. So we have to be their to find out those secrets and feelings otherwise they might stay hidden till the wrong moment. Remembering her and Ben's fight in the nursery.

That's what marriage is being able to be there, for the person you love even when they don't want you to be. Something she wished she had been for Ben before they broke up. So no matter how things get difficult you have to hang in there or you may regret giving up a good thing, Adrian said as a tear escaped her eye, as she remembered her feelings for losing and hurting Ben in the real world. Adrian, are you okay Amy asked as she put her arm around her friends shoulder. Yeah, I'm fine she said as she wiped her eye, and checked on the kids. Well thanks for talking to me Adrian, I really needed that Amy said as she began to rub her engagement ring.

Hey Guys what are you doing here, as Amy and Adrian heard a cry coming from a distance. They both looked up to see, Madison, and Grace coming down the esculator. We're finishing up the last of our holiday shopping Amy told them, as Adrian composed herself, and turned with a broad grin. Yeah, so what are you two doing here, Adrian asked as she turned to speak to her friends. Well, we decided to shop for our guys today and we needed one another's opinion Grace added. What do you mean Adrian asked. Well since I am dating Jack again, and Madison and he talk more I figured she would be the one Jack told about what he wanted, Grace responded. And since Grant and I are together I figured that Grace would know what he might like better than I did Madison chimed in. So since when did you two switch up Adrian asked, not knowing the situation. Adrian, you know we all switched guys during the grad party Grace commented looking at her a little shocked. Yeah, well she probably is a little off since all she and Ben did at the party was look all googly eyed at each other Amy said laughing.

Adrian, then smiled and realized that at the grad party in this world she and Ben went as a couple and probably spent the entire night together. Also because she didn't lose Mercy Grace didn't have the incentive to go to Africa with her step father and meet Daniel. Which probably meant she never broke up with Grant until the grad party where she kissed Jack and where she no longer kissed Ricky. But she also wondered what happened between Alice and Henry and whether or not they broke up.

Well have you guys seen anyone else besides us Adrian asked as she picked up Mercy who now began to fuss after being in the stroller for so long. No, so far its just us since Lauren and her family decided to take that trip to Vermont for Christmas, Madison said. Yeah so it's just us girls and John Grace said reaching to pick up Mercy who gladly went to the blond and play with her long curly tendrils. Yeah, well you guys can help us shop Amy, said. Adrian and I are both looking for gifts for Ben and Ricky.

Sure thing Madison added, as she looked down into the stroller and began to play with John. John who was the only male in the group loved the attention he was getting from all these beautiful girls, so he was not the fussy. In a way Amy was kind of glad he took after Ricky in that respect since he loved being surrounded by women, but he still did not like other male children just as his father but she had to be happy for what she had and not for what she didn't.

As the group patrolled the mall they went from store to store searching for gifts that all deemed appropriate for their male counter parts and all found it hard. They were each grateful for the help that other girls in the group gave when it came to choosing gifts. Grace gave Madison great advice when it came to getting a gift for Grant she selected an autograph baseball bat at a sporting good store since Grant's dad was also a baseball legend, and Grant was on the team.

Adrian helped Grace select a shaving kit for Jack since as Grace implied they were taking it slow this time and the gift although meaningful was at the same time not that personal. Madison helped Amy choose an authentic cologne for Ricky which she believed tailored to Ricky's scent. Amy was skeptical at first, but after sniffing it thought it just perfect for her fiancee. She was also a bit worried about how well Madison knew Ricky's scent, but Madison assured her it was just her intuition about guys.

Now everyone had a gift for their partner, save for Adrian who didn't know what to get Ben at all. She thought the cologne she brought him in their previous world would have been good enough, but not in this world. This was their first real Christmas together here, and even though it would end she wanted the gift to be meaningful. Unfortunately in this world she also could not figure what do you get the man who literally had everything. Come on Adrian, Madison said jokingly you gave him his first child and was the first girl to have sex with him you pretty much can't top those gifts.

Adrian looked at Madison with a scorn, but she had to admit there was truth to those words. She had sex with Ben, and gave him a child so she literally gave him everything that he had ever wanted. It was then that they decided to go into a jewelry store where Adrian used to have her engagement ring resized.

As they entered into the store a new woman behind the counter turned her nose up at them as she saw Amy and Adrian enter with Mercy and John in tow.

I'm sorry but many for our items might be too over priced for you she said. Also we only accept most valid credit cards, no exchanges or refunds she said with a snooty tone. It was at this moment that all the girls took offense to this Adrian especially. She walked up to the woman and asked who she thought she was. Well, Miss she said I am the new assistant manager and it is my job to judge all clientale of this business. Well in that case I would like to talk with your supervisor Adrian asked becoming even more annoyed. Adrian let's just drop it, and go somewhere else Amy suggested. We will Adrian said just give me a minute as she held Mercy to her. The Asst. Manager then disappeared into the office to get her supervisor. As she returned an older gentle man with a bright smile and a gray hair followed her looking annoyed as he seemed to be examining something with a pair of special glasses he wore on his head. He was a bit upset until he saw Adrian and a large smile came to his face.

Adrian, he said shocking everyone in the store including the Asst. Manager. How are you doing my dear, and this must be the little one who caused me such a hard time as he touched Mercy's hand causing the young girl to giggle. I'm fine Mr. Rambizi Adrian said as she hugged the old gentleman. Sir, you know this girl the Assistant Manager asked staring at them. Of course this girl is wearing some of my best work as he pointed to Adrian's engagement ring, bracelet, and wedding band. And I must say I had a very hard time creating work that as your husband stated matched your beauty.

Excuse me, his manager asked as she was still stunned at all she was understanding. Yes this is Adrian Boykewich, the daughter of our city's new District Attorney, and the daughter in law of one of my oldest friends Leo Boykewich. Leo Boykewich she said stunned at this news. You mean the KING OF MEAT, who is one of the richest men in the city. Yes, Mr. Rambizi said annoyed at having to be repeated. Why, what did you do he asked becoming upset again. Nothing that important , Adrian replied she just underestimated us because of our children. Your children, this young girl in your arms is the reason we met, she caused you so much trouble with your fingers and me much stress having to resize your ring.

Her ring the Asst. Manager asked yes. Though this ring is not my design it is a work much greater than even I could master, designed by one of the jewelers of the royal family more than fifty years ago. It is priced at more than any diamond in my shop is worth. It is and it belongs to this girl, the Assist. Manager said in shock. Really, but I assumed, she said and was cut off. What Adrian said as she held Mercy with pride that because I am a teen mother, I am just worthless, well I;m not she said. And its not my jewelry or my family's fortune that make me rich. It's my daughter, my husband, family, and friends.

So Mr. Rambizi, I 'm sorry but I won't be shopping here today. But, Merry Christmas and I hope we see you in the New Year. But Karen is it ,as Adrian' looked at her name tag I hope I will not be seeing you.. As Adrian left the store with her friends turned to Karen and said Karen get ready to close the shop he said. But sir she replied we are not at the end of the day yet. It is for you Mr. Rambizi said as he returned to his office and continue his work.

As they all left the store and continued their shopping Amy went to Adrian and placed her arm with in hers, and whispered I'm proud of you Adrian she said. I'm proud of myself Adrian replied. That I don't need Ben's money to make me happy, I just need him. You really do love him don't you Amy said as she looked at Adrian. Yes, I really do he loved me when no one else did, and he helped me to learn to love myself. It was at this moment that Amy knew what gift Adrian could get for Ben. Come one she said, grasping Adrian's hand.

All the girls were surprised when Amy led them to a thrift store in the mall separated from the other stores. Why are we here Adrian asked looking at Amy quizzically. Well you said you didn't know what gift to get for Ben, but that was because you were looking for new gifts. But, you forget Ben is an old fashioned guy, with old fashioned taste. You're right Amy Adrian said realizing that Ben didn't like new things he was very nostalgic. So she Mercy, Amy, Grace, and Madison browsed the store.

While they were browsing Mercy pointed to an item in a display case which also caught Adrian's attention. She went to the case and asked the cashier how much the item was. When she discovered the price she was overjoyed and reached into her wallet to get out her debit card. Amy went to the counter with Adrian and saw her purchase, as Amy looked at the gift she knew that Adrian had chosen the perfect gift. Madison and Grace, were both a bit puzzled at this item but neither wanted to question Amy and Adrian's insight into Ben Boykewich.