I was a little dramatic about the plot twist last time, but nonetheless it's still a plot twist.
xxx
Riley and Maya pulled back from their embrace and smiled at each other. All was forgiven and forgotten.
Shawn and Cory then walked over to the girls with an update, Shawn rubbing the back of his neck. "We've got some bad news. Your dad has to go back to work tomorrow so we have to head home. Right now."
Riley and Maya exchanged sad looks. Their adventure was coming to an end.
"This was unfortunate, but at least we've had fun these last few days," Cory remarked, trying to look on the bright side.
Riley and Maya both nodded and smiled. It had been fun. "I just wish it didn't have to end now."
Cory nodded. "Trust me, I feel the same."
xxx
They all got into the car and started to head home, everyone feeling sad, yet happy with their trip. Maya looked over at Riley. "So, what was your favorite part of our little adventure?"
Riley grinned. "I'm not sure. It was all pretty fun. I guess the fact I got to hang out with people I love for a few days."
Maya smiled back. "Aww, yeah, that was pretty cool. My favorite part was watching Shawn rage while playing monopoly, though."
"I wasn't raging!" Shawn whined from the front seat.
Riley and Maya laughed. "Well alright then, uncle Shawn, what was your favorite part?"
"Going back to Chubbies, because I beat your dad at darts twice in a row," Shawn playfully answered.
Maya rolled her eyes. "Boys: everything's a competition."
"Hey! Don't think we didn't hear you guys placing bets on us!"
Riley blushed. She had forgotten about that.
"Oh yeah... I guess we are a lot alike," Maya whispered under her breath.
"What was your favorite part, Dad?" Riley asked to avoid continuing that comparison.
Cory shrugged not, sure if he could choose a favorite. "I don't know, probably going back to see where Shawn and I became friends. That was fun."
Riley nodded. "Yeah, I liked that too."
Maya grinned. "That was actually pretty cool."
Riley suddenly decided to lean on Maya's shoulder and sighed happily.
Maya's smile softened as she put an arm around her.
"I'm glad went on this adventure together," Riley whispered.
Maya smiled warmly and kissed the top of her head. "Me too, Riles."
xxx
Philadelphia wasn't that far from New York, so before long they made it back home. Maya waved goodbye and left along with Shawn. Maya didn't want to go home just yet, so she went for a walk in the park.
She regretted that decision...