When Dave got back to his new home, his new family was grinning from ear to ear.

"So did you have fun with Alli?" Claudette asked. She couldn't help but be happy for her nephew.

"Baby, don't ask him. A man never kisses and tell. Right son."

"Right Uncle Rigde. Alli is a nice girl. She has helped me out so much. You all have helped me out so much. I want help. I need you guys to help me."

"We will son. We are behind you in every step you make. We love you and your mom."

"I also have to tell you something else. For the past month I have been cutting." Claudette walked over to her nephew and embraced him. Nothing was needed to be said. It was already stated that they would give him the help he needed.

"Should I tell him or do you want too, baby."

"Tell me what."

"What Claudette is trying to say is…. In the next couple of days your mother will be going to a rehabilitation center in Quebec. She needs to learn how to cope with her depression."

Dave was listening to his aunt. He knew she was right. His mom needed help. The help and care she needed, he couldn't provide for her.

"I understand. When do we help her pack?"

"Tomorrow. Now, let's eat a good meal."

Later That Night

Alli was telling Clare about what happened earlier. Clare digested it all but she was contemplating on whether or not she should tell Ali what was on her mind. She didn't want to be a Debbie –Downer again. Even though she was happy for her best friend. She was scared that Ali would want to jump into a relationship. Images of Johnny ran through her head. Even though Dave had a different kind of drama, she didn't Alli to get hurt.

"Alli just be careful. I don't want you to get hurt. He's going through so much."

"Yeah I know. I am taking my time. Right now, I am enjoying being happy." Hanging up the phone, she layed in her bed and thought of Dave. She knew was right. She always is. She was beginning to doubt his feelings for her. What if he did it because she was just there. What if he was just seeking attention?

Meanwhile

Dave was laying in his bed thinking of Alli. He couldn't believe that happened. Being around her felt natural. It was like the intricate pieces of a puzzle came together to make a clear picture. He hoped he didn't make her feel uncomfortable. As crazy as it sounded, he had to see her again and talk to her. He wanted to give her reassurance that he cared for her. He put his clothes on, snuck out of the house, and headed towards Alli's.

On the other hand, Alli couldn't think of anything other than Dave. She had been hurt so many times. She didn't want this to be another mistake. For some reason, Dave had a hold on her. Her heart told her that he was genuine.

"Click, Clack"

"What is that?" Alli walked to her window.

"Open up Alli-O"

"Ok." Dave skillfully climbed the tree to her bedroom. When he got in, Alli helped him. There was a little awkwardness. They were both staring at each other. Dave broke the silence.

"I came because I wanted to see you. Today wasn't a mistake. I wasn't reaching out to you because I wasn't needing affection. I reached out to you because you are you.

"I'm glad you said that. I had thought that at first but then I listened to my heart. That was so cheesy and corny." She laughed, biting her lip. She couldn't even look him in the eye. Dave tilted her chin up with his finger.

"You are far from corny and cheesy. You are understanding and caring."

"I guess I have been hanging around you for too long then." She lead him to her bed. They both got under the cover and held each other. Dave wanted to touch her again; he started rubbing her stomach. Alli held her breath. Dave involuntarily licked his lips. For once, Ali didn't know what to do. Before she knew it, they were kissing. They both wanted each other so much, but not out of lust, LOVE.

"Dave I think we should stop. I want it to happen. It's just that….."

"Now is not the right time. It's ok Alli. "

"Dave we are here. Say what you need to say to her."

"Thanks Uncle Ridge." Dave was nervous as his hand turned the doorknob. He didn't know what to expect. Would she be mad? Would she hate him? It didn't matter because she needed help. When he opened the door he was very surprised. His mom was sitting on the couch waiting.

"I packed some of my things. I need help with the rest. Dave I don't know what to say to you."

"It's ok I forgive you. I have to because you are my mom; you went through so much pain as I did. When I came here, I was so angry with you. Now I see that that was selfish of me. You need help." His mother broke down crying. Her son should be yelling at her, hitting her. He was the exact opposite, forgiving and selfless. As they got to the airport, Dave watched his mother get on plane. He waved to her. For a split second, she looked like her old self.

Two Months Later

"Here's the mail. You got a letter from mom."

"Thanks Dreds." He read it aloud.

Dave I just wanted to tell you how sorry I am for everything that I put you through. It was not your job or responsibility to take care of me. I am the parent; it is my job. I took out my pressures as mother on you. That was not fair. Your father was a good father to you; he loved you so much. Jamal loved you so much; he just couldn't handle his faculties as I. Please forgive him. You are the reason I am here. I want to better a better mother to you. I am so proud of you. You will always be my kind-hearted son who has so much love to give.

Love,

Mom

P.S. I heard you got a girlfriend? Maybe when I get better I can meet her.

"That was so beautiful, cuz." Dave just smiled. He couldn't be any happier.

"Can we go to the grave site?"

"Sure son." Ridge said.

On the ride to the cemetery, Dave was wondering what he should say? It then occurred to him that he should speak from his heart. As the put flowers on the tombstones, they stepped back to give Dave space. As he looked upon them, he wished his words were powerful enough to bring them back.

"Dad. I really don't know what to say to you right now. Everything seemed to happen so fast. I am so sorry for hating you. I was just so mad at how you treated mom. She was a good woman to all of us. You have taught me so much, even in death. Always forgive and never take anyone for granted. Hopefully you are at peace. I will continue to search for mine."

"Jamal, forgive you too. You were living the same life as me. I love you. I'm going to live my life now because I think that is what you would want me to do."

"Dad you were such a great father to me. Good-bye until we meet again."

Dave wiped the tears from his face. He had never cried like this before.

The Next Day

Dave was at his locker, getting his books for Mrs. Kwan. Alli snuck up behind him and put her hands over his eyes.

"I wonder who this could be? Frieda Pinto, Halle Belly?"

"You better shut up before I punch you in the face loser"

"I knew it was you baby." He kissed Alli sweetly.

"Are we still on for tonight, me and your family? A home cooked meal."

"Sure are. I'm going to introduce you to hot-water cornbread, greens, porksteak, corn and sweet potato pie."

"Sounds yummy. I can't wait." Alli smiled as they walked in the hallway.

"I'll see you later. I'm gonna talk to Mrs. Sauve' for a minute."

"Ok babe." The new couple kissed. Things were finally working out.