Whew! Done. Thank you all for following me in this story's journey. I really enjoyed writing it and hearing that you all enjoyed it. I appreciate all the reviews. I want to especially thank and dedicate this chapter to JACK5T3R who has been very supportive with each chapter's appearance. You are wonderful!

Enjoy! And remember I don't own Recess and please review!

Chapter7 – Spinelli

Ashley Spinelli had not expected to wake up without vision. Well, seeing all white was sort of like being without vision. The first explanation was that she slept in so late that the sunlight streaming through her window had momentarily blinded her. The second was that she actually went blind. The third and true explanation was when Spinelli made herself care enough this early in the morning about losing her vision to bring a hand up to her eyes. It was not the sunlight nor a sudden loss of vision but rather a note taped to her forehead. Spinelli's half-awake mind and body clumsily pulled the piece of paper from her face. The curiosity that note brought was what kept her mind from reliving her reunion with T.J. last night. She filled her lungs, totally prepared to chastise one of her brothers for sneaking into her room when she was asleep until she actually read the note.

Go to Kelso's. (Don't be mad. I was paid five bucks to put this on your face.)

Spinelli frowned. So her suspicion was right—it was one of her brothers, but not from her brothers. Spinelli reread the note before a grin split her face. After leaping out of bed, threw on jeans and a t-shirt and boots, and grabbed an apple for breakfast (a very late morning breakfast as it turns out), she ran outside. She resisted the urge to turn right and see if T.J. was home. No doubt this was a scheme of his which is why she willingly is going along with it. She trusts him.

Spinelli reached Kelso's just before Kelso himself was going to go on a lunch break.

"Hi there, Spinelli. How are you?" Kelso greeted her.

"Hey. Fine. You?" Spinelli said, slightly out of breath. She ran most of the way there.

"Fairly good myself. What can I get for you?"

Spinelli has not stopped looking around the moment she entered the store. None of her friends were there. "Have you seen Gretchen or T.J. or any of the others? I'm kinda lookin' for 'em."

"Nope, can't say that I have," Kelso said. A small smile gave him away, but Spinelli was too busy searching to notice it. "What's got you all worked up?"

"Well, I was...I thought they would be here. Guess not." Spinelli felt disappointment run through her like a cold shower. She sat down grumpily on one of the stools. "Can you get me a soda, please? I'll just wait a while."

"Sorry, can't do that," Kelso answered. This shocked Spinelli. Kelso and no soda? What? "But I can get you something you might like better." Kelso pulled out an envelope and handed it to the young woman. Spinelli grinned and took it.

"Who knew you had a joking side?" Spinelli teased.

Kelso shrugged. "I like to bring it out every now and then. Go on and read it."

Spinelli tore the envelope and took out the letter inside. The handwriting was unmistakable.

Hey Spinelli!

This is where you helped me figure out to be an engineer. My dad completely agrees with the idea. It's great! Thanks for that. You're pretty amazing. But I'd like to say that to you in person. Head down to the park. Vince is waiting for you there.

Sincerely,

Gus Griswald

Spinelli's smile turned into a smirk as she pocketed the note and headed out the door with a "Thanks, Kelso!" thrown over her shoulder.

Spinelli again ran the whole way as she went to the park. She realized how out of shape she was. Sitting around in Italy eating pasta was probably not the best to keep her in shape. Maybe this was part of the surprise. Keep Spinelli Healthy goal. If that's what this was, then she was going to punch T.J. rather than thank him.

When she reached the park, Spinelli looked around, but only saw kids and mothers she didn't recognize. She wandered over to the cement basketball court. No one was there. No Vince. No random basketball players. No one. Who would give her the note? Spinelli wandered around, trying to catch the eye of anyone passing by, but no one gave her a second glance. The frustrated girl sighed and kicked a rock. It skidded across the ground and actually managed to hit the far basketball hoop. However, when it hit the base of the metal pole, its sound was a thud rather than a tink. Spinelli looked over and felt relief wash over her.

Spinelli picked up the note and read it.

Hey Spin.

Sorry for the no-show welcome, but I still wanna say thanks for attacking me the other day. Without you, I wouldn't have a date with the best girl I know. (Sorry, you're now second in my book.) You're the strength all of us needs to occasionally kick us in the butt. I appreciate that. I'll see you soon. Just head over to the mall, specifically—and I quote from Gretchen—"The store where we saw the horrible shoes that made us think of clowns." Sounds fun. And weird. Later!

Vince LaSalle

Spinelli rolled her eyes in good humor. She could practically hear the sarcasm Vince used. After pocketing this note too, Spinelli headed down to the mall. The little outlet mall in town wasn't much to look at, but it had what you needed. It was mainly for window shopping, anyway. That's how Gretchen and Spinelli saw the clown shoes. Those terrible orange and powder blue saddle shoes. Who would wear those except in costume?

The store was easily found back. Spinelli paused to catch her breath outside of the store, leaning against the window. The shoes were still there it turns out. Not only the shoes, but she saw something white underneath it. Spinelli's eyes gleamed as she went quick in and out of the store before the clerk could say two words to her. She always hated small talk. Suspicious small talk from the clerk was to be avoided at all costs. Spinelli walked down to a nearby bench, sat down, and read Gretchen's note.

Hello Spinelli.

Wonderful work in coming this far, though this is not too difficult when you think about it. T.J. was insistent that it could be easily followed so you could find us more quickly. Anyway, this is the place where you helped me find my confidence, both to go out with Vince and to be myself. For that, I thank you. I am eager for you to see your surprise. Please go to the recreational center.

Yours truly,

Gretchen Grundler

Spinelli couldn't help help but smile at remembering the happiness on Gretchen's face when she talked about Vince. The tough teen was sure glad her words and actions did good rather than harm. Though T.J. kind of convinced her the way she did things did not have to change. Her tough persona worked for her and her friends—her wonderful accepting friends she wouldn't trade for the world.

One jog to the recreational center later, Spinelli nearly collapsed on the front desk. She held up a finger to the person there to wait until she caught her breath. When she did, she opened her mouth to speak, but the bulky man behind the desk spoke first.

"I'm guessing you're Spinelli," he said flatly.

Spinelli nodded, words still escaping her.

The man handed her Mikey's note. Spinelli slid onto the ground, leaning back against the desk. Seriously—too much pasta. Oh well. She'll get back into shape eventually. Spinelli opened the fourth note.

Hello Dearest Spinelli.

I am sad at only speaking to you through note when I want to write ballads and sing songs to your wonderful kind-hearted actions. You truly are an ideal friend because you accept those around you for who they are and do not try to change them. For that and your courageous actions at my defense I could never be grateful enough. If you would please hurry down to T.J.'s home and ask for Becky, that would be wonderful and one step closer to greeting you in person.

Until then, dear friend,

Mikey Blumberg

Spinelli was happy with the note, but it was the fact that she had to run all the way back home that had her groan and curse pasta once more. Spinelli got up on her feet, took a few deep breaths, and headed out with the newest note tucked safely in her pocket.

Becky answered the door when the doorbell rang. She was not surprised to see Spinelli, but she was surprised to see Spinelli red-faced and out of breath.

"Did you run the whole way here?"

Spinelli nodded.

"The whole scavenger hunt?" Becky asked incredulously.

Spinelli nodded again.

Becky took pity on the tired teen. She stepped aside. "Here, come on in. I'm getting you a drink. Cool off. It's not like T.J. and his dweebs are going anywhere anytime soon."

"Thank you," Spinelli gasped. She went inside and sat herself down in the kitchen. Becky fetched her a glass of water which Spinelli chugged the moment she received it.

"Slow down there. Don't make yourself sick," Becky said.

"Sorry. Thanks," Spinelli said, regaining some of her breath.

"A little eager, are we?" Becky joked. She smiled when Spinelli wouldn't look her in the eye. "It's ok. I get it. You haven't seen them in a while—at least all together. Bet you missed them pretty bad. I know I miss my friends."

"How's the job search going?" Spinelli asked.

"Job decision now," Becky corrected. "You were gone all summer. You didn't hear that I have three job offers and don't know which to take."

"Cool. You're too good," Spinelli grinned.

Becky smirked. "You got that right. I'll figure it out eventually. I have until the end of the month. Right now, I'm focusing on the family—mainly T.J. and his ineptitude."

"Oh yeah? I have a hard time believing T.J. doesn't know how to handle a situation. What's got him all messed up now?" Spinelli asked.

Becky looked at Spinelli then turned away before Spinelli got the hint. It was not Becky's secret to tell, but she was sure going to enjoy watching T.J. try and deal with his newfound feelings.

"Nothing much. Probably just junior year coming up. I think he wants to run for student body president."

"He always was a leader," Spinelli said. Becky could almost detect the admiration in Spinelli's voice. The older woman smiled at the table top.

"Yeah. Anyway, here's your note. Have fun with the rest of your summer."

Spinelli took the note. "I will, especially now that I'm home."

Becky frowned. "You know, some would give their right arm to be in Italy for the summer."

"But I ain't one of 'em. Thanks again for the water!"

Spinelli shot out the door like a rocket with her newfound energy, leaving Becky behind to roll her eyes and smile.

Heya Spin,

Sorry about the run-around, but it'll be worth it. My house is where you helped make my summer not be a total waste. We all missed having you around. I missed having you around. The gang without you is not complete. I'm glad you realize now how important you are to all of us—punches and all. I need you to head to Third Street School. I promise I'll be there waiting for you.

Yours Friend,

T.J. Detweiler

The words in the note had Spinelli's heart stutter and her legs almost take flight with how fast she was running. When she was a block away from her old school, she slowed down to a walk. She didn't want to be all sweaty when she reached her friends.

Finally, Spinelli spotted Third Street. The sight of it still makes her smile with fond memories. No one was at the front of the school. Spinelli headed over to the playground in the back. There she found them. Through the fence she saw T.J., Gus, Gretchen, Vince, and Mikey all there next to the newer version of Old Rusty.

"There she is!" she heard Gus say to the others.

Spinelli waved before climbing over the fence. Once she was on the other side, she sprinted towards the group. Her friends. T.J. was the first to greet her and who got the blunt end of her gratitude. The force of the running hug he got nearly toppled him to the ground. Thankfully, Mikey was behind him keeping them up.

"Hey guys!" Spinelli said joyously. When she pulled away from T.J., she proceeded to hug every other member of the gang. It was the first time she has seen them all together. It felt as if all the pieces of a puzzle finally fit together perfectly. It made her feel satisfied and oh-so happy. After finishing with her greetings, Spinelli looked around and noticed all the food setting on a table underneath a banner hanging from the jungle gym. It read Welcome Back Spinelli. "What's going on? What's this? And why make me run everywhere to get here?"

"It was all T.J.'s idea," Gus informed her.

"Yeah, he wanted to do something extra special to make sure the gang is together again and as strong as ever—especially since we got our muscle back," Vince joked. Spinelli smirked.

"You guys didn't have to do all this," Spinelli said. "I just wanted to see you guys before the summer was over."

"And you are," Mikey said, "in a most pleasant way."

"We've got the whole day planned," T.J. informed her. "Lunch here. Sodas at Kelso's. Hanging out by the pond. Not to mention whatever else you want."

Gretchen placed a hand on Spinelli's shoulder. "This is a day to celebrate you, Spinelli."

Spinelli had to look at the ground. She shoved her hands in her pockets and coughed lightly, trying to shove away the emotion that dared show themselves. Instead of crying, she joked, "I thought that's what my birthday was for."

Everyone had a good laugh at that. Mikey announced the food should be eaten before the flies got to it instead. Each member filled a plate and picked a spot on the jungle gym to eat. They talked and laughed and reminisced until the food was gone and nearly all the cake was eaten.

After their lunch of cake, junk food, and sandwiches, the four play a while on the playground before going down to Kelso's and grabbing some sodas to take to the pond. Spinelli joked that the pond was the only place they didn't make her go on a wild goose chase. Thankfully the spitfire teen held no resentment for forcing her to get back into shape (though all that junk food might have set her back a day again).

The group stayed at the pond until the sun began to set. It was when they were all sitting in a row on a hill, watching the sunset that Spinelli suddenly sat and shrieked, "I was supposed to get my new cell phone today!"

This set the group off. They laugh until their sides hurt and tears rolled down their cheeks. Spinelli laughed too, though she was still concerned on how she was going to keep in contact with them. That's when T.J. offered to stick close and have her use him and his phone as a medium for contact until she got her new phone. Spinelli accepted the offer, ignorant of the smirks her other friends exchanged behind her back.

The group watched the stars for a while before finally admitting that they should be getting back home. They take the long way home, stopping by each house and dropping off that group member until it was just Spinelli and T.J. Spinelli had a vague sense of deja vu.

"Thanks T.J. Really," Spinelli said when they reached her walkway. "You didn't have to do this. You had already reassured me enough yesterday. I'm not turning into one of those insecure Ashley's."

"I know," T.J. assured her. "But I wanted to. We all missed you, Spinelli. I missed you."

"I missed you too," Spinelli said. She looked to the ground when she spoke her next words. "And...you know, thanks for always being there for me and stuff. I—you mean a lot to me."

T.J. felt his heart swell. Spinelli's cheeks grew pink when she saw his beaming smile at her.

"You mean a lot to me too, Spin," T.J. said earnestly. "I always—"

T.J. never got to finish. Spinelli had stepped forward and hugged him once more, tightly, as if he would disappear on her. T.J. quickly returned the hug, trying to assure her nonverbally of her importance in his life. They stayed like that for a moment before Spinelli pulled away and kissed T.J. on the cheek.

"G'night Teej," Spinelli said, cheeks flaming and heart pounding, before turning and running up her steps and into her house.

T.J. again stood there a moment, fully taking in the night and trying to memorize the tingling sensation on his cheek. Then he headed home, almost skipping as he went along.

"Good night?" Becky asked. She was seated in the entryway, reading a magazine when T.J. entered the house.

"You could say that," T.J. said cryptically.

"Thought so," Becky said. "Mom and Dad are out for the night. They told me to inform them if you came home late. It is almost an hour past your curfew, but I think I am too tired to read a clock properly. You came home five minutes before your curfew instead of sixty minutes after. Does that sound about right?"

T.J. moved to his sister and hugged her. "Yep. That sounds truthful to me. Thanks sis."

"Anytime bro. And let me know how things go as the school year progresses. If it gets you in this good of a mood, I don't think you'll ever be annoying again."

T.J. grinned. "You got it. I have a feeling this school year is going to be a very interesting one."

Becky and T.J. shared a secretive look before T.J. headed up for bed and Becky went back to her magazine.