Halloween
"Dad, will you be still," Mati admonishes, "you're going to mess up our work."
"I can't help it Mati," Josh tells her, "the brush tickles my nose." This gets a giggle from his excited daughter. It's October 31st, Halloween, and Josh will be taking Mati out trick-or-treating. It's the early evening and the pair are putting the final touches on their costumes. The last two Halloweens have been hard on the father/daughter pair. Mati's mother, Ann, loved Halloween and took Mati on her first trick-or-treating adventure before the baby could even walk. As Mati got older and understood what Halloween could get her, candy, she'd get excited too. But the first Halloween after Ann was gone, Mati really didn't want to go out, she said it just reminded her that her mother was no longer with them. Josh didn't want to venture out either, he would have much rather stayed home and spent a quite evening with his daughter. He finally decided, after talking to his mom and dad, that he'd take Mati trick-or-treating, telling the little girl that her mom would want her to go and continue to have fun. And she did have fun, though not as much as in the past. By the next Halloween, Josh had made the move to New York. And like last year, it was fun, but not as much fun. For the past two Halloweens, Josh had not worn a costume. He'd just taken Mati around and watched her collect her candy. But this year promised to be different.
This year Josh was wearing a costume, and his face was even being painted to make him look like a clown, a scary clown. That was Mati's idea. But this Halloween would be different, and more fun. And the reason why was because of an old friend of Josh's who Mati wanted to go with them, Maya. When Mati asked her, she first looked at Josh to see if it was okay with him. He nodded to her that it was and told her later that she needn't have asked because her going made Mati happy. It was Maya's idea to do the face painting. She thought it would appeal to her little art student's creative side, and it did. Maya found paints made for body painting that wouldn't irritate the skin and also brought a variety of brushes for them to use. Mati wanted to be a skeleton, so Maya painted her face. Maya decided to be a vampire and Mati painted her face, and they both painted a scary clown's face on Josh. The evening had already started out great with all three laughing, sometimes hilariously, as they painted each other's faces. Josh wanted to help Mati paint Maya's, but Mati would have none of it, saying she didn't want him messing up her effort on Maya's face. "Dad, I love you," she began, "but you're a Matthews and have no art talent at all. Maya told me that and I've seen some of Riley's paintings." That got a big laugh from Maya. When Josh pointed out that she was a Matthews as well, Mati informed him that her mother had given her enough talent to overcome his lack of it. "Your daughters pretty smart Josh," Maya says, "maybe you should listen to her." Josh could only shake his head, knowing he wasn't going to win the argument with his daughter and her art mentor.
Finally, the two artists laid down their brushes and admired their work. "I think we're done. What do you think Maya?" Mati asks. "I think you're right Mati," Maya answers. "I don't think we can make this clown look any scarier." This gets a nod of approval from the little artist. "Well, then let me see," Josh says, so Maya hands him a mirror. After looking at their handy work for a few minutes, Josh says: "okay, I have to admit. I couldn't have done anything like this. I do look pretty scary." Mati rolls her eyes and says: "Well it's about time dad. Leave the painting to the professionals." Josh is taken aback by his daughter's brashness. It's not like her. But then he sees a slight grim form on the little girl's face. "Oh you," he says as he realizes she's teasing him. Then he wraps her up in his arms and starts tickling her, which causes her to laugh uncontrollable. Maya watches the two interact, and it warms her heart. Mati and Josh would both smile and laugh when she first met them together. But she knew Josh didn't laugh like he once did when she knew him before, and she suspected the same was true for Mati. But here they were laughing till tears were coming into their eyes, and she's like to think that she had a small part in causing this joyful laughter. "Alright you two," she finally says, "stop it. You're going to mess up you face paint and I don't want to redo it." This gets the two to quieten down somewhat.
"All right," Josh says, "let's all get our costumes on and get to trick-or-treating."
"Yeah!" Mati says excitedly. She knows what that means, candy. About a half hour later, Mati and Maya emerge from Mati's bedroom with their costumes on and wait for Josh. He finally emerges from his bedroom with his on. "Took you long enough," Mati says with a teasing grin. This gets a giggle from Maya. "Hey," Josh replies, "these clown pants and shoes were harder to get on that you'd think." This gets a laugh from both girls in the room. "I have to say Mati," Josh says, "you look great in your costume. You make a scary skeleton."
"Thanks dad, and you make one scary clown," Mati says, which gets enthusiastic agreement from Maya. Then Mati remembers something, "Oh wait, I forgot my bucket for the candy!" Then she runs of to her room to retrieve it. After she leaves, Josh looks at Maya's costume and says: "You look great too, Maya; sexy even." Maya smiles at first, but then gets a panicked look on her face. "Oh God Josh!" She exclaims. "Did I go too far? I went for a consume that would hug me a little tight, like Elvira, Mistress of the Dark. But I wasn't going for sexy. Is it inappropriate for going out with Mati? I can change if it is and put on regular street cloths." Josh could see that Maya is worried. "No Maya," he says, "you look fine and you are absolutely appropriate." Maya breathes a sigh of relief. "But," he continues, "you can be completely appropriate and still look sexy." This causes her to look at him and she finds him softly smiling at her. She remembers that was the way he used to smile at her when he found what she was wearing to be attractive and sexy. She's happy that her face is painted because she feels her face get warm and knows it's turned red under the paint, but apparently not painted enough. Josh grins at her and say teasingly: "I think you should have put a little more red paint on you face." She feels her face get warmer, which causes his grin to grow. "I'm kidding Maya, but you do look great." She looks at him and returns his smile. "Thanks Josh," she says. Before anything else can be said between them, Mati runs back into the room and proclaims: "Okay, got my bucket; let's go trick-or-treating!"
The trio first stopped at some apartments in Josh's building, some of his neighbors. All were amazed at their costumes. As a result, Mati got lots of candy. Next, they ventured out of the building to visit some local shops and businesses, as is the tradition in New York. Again, everyone who saw them was amazed and delighted with their costumes. To Maya's delight, no one recognized her under her costume and face paint. As far as she was concerned, this night was about Mati's fun…. and Josh's. Mati collected even more candy and most of the people in and around the businesses wanted to take their picture. At first Maya didn't want to be in the pictures. She felt like it was Josh and Mati's night to be together and she'd be intruding. But everyone insisted she be in the pictures also, and Josh said he wanted her in them as well. And when Mati practically begged her to be in the pictures with them, she couldn't refuse.
After this, they headed to Cory and Topanga's apartment. Not only were they going to be there, but so was Riley, Farkle, & the twins, Auggie & Avia, and Shawn, Katy, & Maya's brothers. Josh used his key to get in the building. When they opened the apartment door, everyone that was there suddenly stopped and stared at them. Cory finally broke the silence, saying: "my brotha, when you told me that all three of you would be doing costumes this year and that Maya would help, I thought you'd look great, but this is incredible. You didn't say you'd be face painting." Everyone else there had costumes on, but most were just rentals from costume stores. Some were more elaborate, like Augie and Ava's, which were their favorite comic book superheroes. Cory and Topanga were dressed as a lawyer and teacher, which one might expect, except Cory was a lawyer and Topanga was the teacher. Others were not as creative. Katy wore her old Nighthawk Diner waitress consume, which she still had. She told everyone the reason she wore it was because she could still get into it, which she was proud of since the last time she wore it was almost twenty years ago. When Shawn was asked why he didn't have a costume on, he responded with: "I do, I'm dressed as Katy's favorite customer." This drew moans from everyone in the room because he was just wearing regular street clothes. "Well," Josh began, to answer Cory, "when you have a friend that's a world-famous artist, you kinda want to use that talent." This drew laughter from everyone. Then Mati piped in: "It was Maya's idea. And I loved it." When this drew more laughter, Josh added: "and when your daughter is as aspiring artist, it's hard not to go with the painted faces."
Maya loved the interaction with her family and friends. She had forgotten how wonderful that was and how important family was to her and everyone there. Topanga and Riley had prepared snacks for everyone for their little "pre-party" as they called it. The building the Matthews and Hunter's lived in was having a roof-top Halloween party which they were all going to. It was for apartment building residents and their invited guests. After the little group had some refreshments and socialized a bit, the children began begging the adults to move to the roof-top party because they knew there would be more candy to be had. Finally, everyone headed to the roof.
Once there, they found the party in full swing. There were several stations set up with someone at each guarding the caches of candy that was only given up when scary children came by with the ultimatum: "trick or treat." There were several games to play for everyone, including bobbing for apples. This causes Riley to tell the hilarious story of her and Maya's first Halloween party together where they first met Farkle who, according to Riley, saved her from drowning in the bobbing tub. "I kept telling you to 'lift your head, Riley,' but you didn't listen." Riley and Maya had to tell the story to everyone there who hadn't heard it.
Towards the end of the party, the organizers announced that secretly, judges had been mingling in the audience to determine the best costume for a prize. The head judge then announced: "Most years this is a hard decision, but this year it wasn't, although it was a three-way tie. The prize goes to the family with the scary-clown dad, the vampire mom, and the skeleton girl. Would you three please come up and claim your prize?" As they came forward, Maya was embarrassed. She tried not to go with them, but Mati and Josh insisted. "Don't worry Maya," Josh told her, "just go with it." When they got to the stage amongst applause, the judge handed Josh their prize. As he was taking it, someone in the audience recognized Maya and shouted: "hey, they cheated; the vampire lady is Maya Hunter, a world-famous artist. No wonder their faces look so great." Everyone started laughing, including the man who had exposed Maya, obviously in fun. After Josh claimed their prize, he felt an explanation was necessary, if for no other reason than to help with Maya's uneasiness. "On behalf of all three of us, thank you to the judges," he began. "My name is Josh Matthews and this cute little skeleton girl is my daughter, Mati. And yes, the vampire lady is Maya Hunter, the Maya Hunter." This got a round of hushed ooo's and aaa's. "Cory and Topanga Matthews, who live in this building, and many of you know, is my big brother and sister-in-law. And Maya's mom and dad, Shawn & Katy Hunter, also live in this building." Then he looks at Maya and gives her a warm smile before turning back to the audience. "She's also Cory & Topanga's daughter, Riley's, best friend. And because of that, Maya and I met when we were children and have been close friends ever since." After a brief pause as people took that in, Josh continued: "And if anyone thinks using Maya to paint our faces is cheating, well tuff! I say: if you got the big guns, you use 'em!" This brings a roar of laughter at Josh's joke from the crowd. When he looks at Maya again, she's just shakes her head and rolls her eyes, clearly amused at Josh, but happy for his explanation to the crowd.
Later, after the roof party ended, all of Josh's family and friends returned to Cory and Topanga's for a few minutes to freshen up before they left to go home. Josh was the first to begin to leave. "Well everyone," he began, "my little skeleton here," referring to Mati, "is all tuckered out, so I need to get her home and put her to bed." As he was getting ready to leave, Maya says: "I'll go with you and help put her to be bed Josh, if you'd like." He responded: "thanks Maya, I was hoping you would." This caused several knowing looks to each other from the other adults in the room that Josh and Maya didn't see. After they said their goodbyes, Josh and Maya left with Mati. After they left, the others began to get their things together to leave. At one point Corey asked Shawn: "What do you think Shawnie?" He nodded at the door that Josh and Maya just left through, and Shawn know he was asking about Josh and Maya's relationship. The others gathered around to hear Shawn's reply. "They enjoy each other's company, that's obvious," he says.
"And it's also obvious they like each other….a lot," Katy adds.
"They always have, even as children," Topanga says.
"But do you think it'll turn into romantic feelings for each other, like they had before?" Riley asks eagerly. They all turn to look at Riley, a little troubled that she asked the question they'd all been thinking, but had been avoiding asking. Farkle then decides to join the conversation. "I apologize for my wife bringing this up," Farkle begins. Riley looks at him, a little agitated, but sees his smile and relaxes. Farkle continues: "Riley wants them together again, but I've warned her not to push; that could make things worse." The four older adults exchange knowing smiles, then Topanga turns to her daughter and says: "We'd all like to see them together again honey. The four of us have talked quite a bit about their relationship, and we can see what it's done for Josh."
"His bright smile and the twinkle in his eyes have returned," Cory adds."
"And my baby girl seems happier that she has been since….well, since they were together before," Katy says.
"And on top of all that," Cory adds, "it's obvious the positive effect she's had on Mati. Josh and I have talked about that. Mati absolutely adores Maya, and it's obvious to me that's been good for her."
"But I have to agree with Farkle, Riley," Topanga says while giving her daughter a little hug. "We shouldn't push; even a little bit. We all know how Maya feels about Josh, but none of us knows if Josh has those same feelings for her. And if he senses even a small attempt at matchmaking, we don't know how he'll react."
"As great as he seems to be now," Cory begins, "I think he's still pretty fragile emotionally. He loved Ann so much; but I do think he'll be open to another relationship….sometime, if not right now."
"It's okay to want them together Riley," Farkle tells her as he sees her slight disappointment, "we all do." But we need to let them figure it on their own. Okay?" She looks at her husband and then the others and says: "okay, I see what you're saying. So I'll back off." This gets soft laughs from the little group of adults as they all come to the same conclusion.
Maya opens the door to Josh's apartment. He'd handed the key to her on the train as he was holding Mati, who was sleeping the whole time. "I think we need to get her face paint off before putting her to bed," Maya says. "I agree," Josh answers. Maya had noticed Josh was having more trouble walking in his big clown shoes while carrying Mati, so she suggests: "Josh, why don't you go ahead and take your costume off and I'll start cleaning Mati's face." He nods, thanks her, and heads to his room. Maya sits Mati down in the bathroom and begins to clean the sleepy little girl's face with a warm washcloth. When she's finished, she begins cleaning her face. When Josh comes back, he sees what's Maya's done and says: "Why don't you take a washcloth with you and clean your face and change in my room and I'll do the same here and meet you in Mati's bedroom. She quickly agrees because she's eager to get out of her costume. "Any why don't you spend the night here, Maya," he continues. "It's late and I know you're tired." She flashes a big smile and says: "thanks Josh, I was just about to ask if I could. I am tired." She goes into Josh's room, cleans her face, and puts on some sleeping pants, and an oversized t-shirt that Josh had insisted she leave at his place so she wouldn't have to sleep in his much-oversized PJs when she spent the night again.
When she enters Mati's room, Josh is just beginning to take the little girl's costume off. Maya retrieves a set of PJs for her and helps Josh get her into them. By this time, Mati was awake enough to say: "I had a great time tonight, thanks dad." He kisses her check and says: you're welcome." The way she looked at her dad, just makes Maya's heart swell with happiness. Then she turns to Maya and says: "thank you too Maya. Our costumes were the best ever!"
"You're welcome honey," Maya says. "I had more fun tonight that I've had in a long time. And that's thanks to you and your dad." She smiles at Mati and then Josh as she says this. Mati lets out a big yawn, then holds out her arms to Maya and says: "good night hug," which Maya is happy to give her. Once again, Mati holds on a little longer and says softly: "I love you, Maya." Her eyes fill with tears again as she looks down at this little human she's learned to care about some much. "I love you too, honey," she answers and kisses her cheek before she lets go of her. Mati hugs her dad and they exchange "I love You's" as well, then he tucks her in and Josh and Maya leaves her room.
After leaving Mati's room, Maya walks into the living room and sits down on the couch. Josh, sensing somethings up with Maya, and believes he knows what it is, follows close behind her. As he sits next to her, he waits for her to talk to him. She looks at him, as she wipes the last tears from her eyes, and asks: "How do you do it Josh? How do you not turn into an emotional mess or a melted puddle on the floor when that sweet girl of your looks at you with those big eyes and says 'I love you'? How Josh, how? I mean, I'm having trouble telling you this and you seem so calm and in control."
Josh can only smile at his old friend. This is what he expected was bothering her and he knows what she's going through. As she looks at him for an answer, he says: "Well, there's actually good news and more good news about that. The good news is: as time goes by, it gets easier, until you don't turn into an emotional mess for the next hour." He chuckles a little at this, which causes Maya to smile as she realizes her plight. "And the more good news," he continues," is that wonderful feeling you get which caused you to lose it in the first place, never goes away. You'll always have it. Even when you've had a bad day and feeling down, when she looks at you and says she loves you, all your troubles just fade away." Her smile grows with his explanation. "And like I've told you before," he continues, "it's okay to get emotional. It just tells me how much you care about my little girl."
Maya is overwhelmed and before she realizes it, she throughs her arms around his neck and hugs him. When she finally realizes what she's done, she let's go and meekly says: "sorry."
"Why?" Josh asks with a smile. "I've 'surprise hugged' you a couple of times. That's what friends do with each other." When he sees Maya relax, he says: "if I had a dollar for every time you and Riley hugged, I'd have more money that this Minkuses."
This causes Maya to laugh out loud, which makes Josh happy. Then Maya notices something she hadn't noticed earlier in the day. She sees the blanket, sheet, and pillow that she uses when sleeping on Josh's couch folded neatly and resting on one of the living room chairs. "Expecting me to spend the night here Matthews?" She asks with a knowing smile as she indicates the bed coverings.
"Well," Josh begins with a knowing smile of his own, "Mati loves it when you're here and have breakfast with us. And maybe I do too." The two share an awkward moment until Maya says: "I'd better get to bed so I'll be awake when she get's up. This causes Josh to smile as he starts making Maya's bed on the couch. After they've said their good nights, Maya lays on the couch looking up at the ceiling. She thinks: "tonight was great. I really enjoy doing things with Josh and Mati." She sighs then and asks herself: "Should I tell him how I really feel? I don't want to mess our friendship up, and I certainly don't want to hurt Mati with a conflict between her dad and me, but still….."
She decides to think about that some more later. She closes her eyes and falls instantly asleep. What Maya couldn't have known was that the Holiday Season would bring about feelings in her, and others, more powerful than she'd ever felt.
Thanksgiving
It was very nice of Farkle to do this for us," Katy says from the middle seat of the large SUV she, Shawn, Maya, and Maya's brothers are riding in. They're on their way to Philadelphia to spend the Thanksgiving weekend with the Matthews's at Alan and Amy's home. Farkle had also provided similar transportation for his family as well as Cory, Topanga, Auggie, Ava, Josh, and Mati. A driver was also provided for each SUV. Farkle had also had his personal assistant to book hotel rooms for everyone not actually staying with Alan and Amy. Farkle was going to pay for the rooms as well, but Maya put her foot down and insisted that she pay for the rooms. Farkle finally backed down, knowing just how far he could push his and Riley's childhood friend. This is the first time, in a long time, the Matthews and Hunters had been together in one place. Eric and Morgan were also coming with their families. They both were looking forward to seeing Maya because it had been almost fifteen years since either had seen the now-famous artist. Maya hoped they still saw her as just Maya, Riley's best friend, and not a "famous artist." Her fears were laid to rest where Eric texted her that he can't wait to see "Mayonnaise" again. She laughed out loud at his text.
They arrived Wednesday evening and after everyone got settled into their hotel rooms, they were all driven to the senior Matthews' house by their drivers. As they began piling into Alan and Amy's home, they were all warmly greeted by the patriarch and matriarch of the Matthews clan. They were also greeted by Morgan as well as Eric's wife. The two women had insisted on coming on the Tuesday before Thanksgiving to help with the preparations for the large family gathering. Amy, now in her late 70s had balked at the idea at first, but Morgan and Alan had insisted they would need and appreciate the extra help. Amy finally gave in but later thanked them for coming early to help as she realized it was much needed.
Maya patiently waited her turn to be greeted by Amy and Alan. When they finally got to her, both older Matthews paused and looked at her intently. Maya wasn't sure what to make of this. She had expected to get a hug from each, like she always had upon seeing them. Then, she saw Amy's lower lip begin to quiver slightly and her eyes get a little moist. She saw Alan's eyes tear up as well. Then a big smile broke out on both their faces and Amy says: "Oh Maya, it's so good to see you. We've both missed you so much." Now Maya can't hold back her own tears. "Grandma and grandpa Matthews," she begins, "I've missed you both so much, as well. It's so good to be home." The three embrace and enjoy a tender family moment. Maya remembers these hugs and the love that goes with them. Amy and Alan have always treated her like another granddaughter ever since she first met them when she was seven years old and visiting with Cory, Topanga, and Riley. They release each other finally and wiped their tear-filled eyes. Alan looks at Maya and says: "we are so proud of you honey and everything you've accomplished. And not just for what you've done with your art, but also what you've done since you've been back in New York." When she looks at them questioningly, Alan adds: "we'll talk about that later."
Mati suddenly appears next to Maya and says: "I think grandma and grandpa love you Maya."
"I think they do honey," she answers the little girl "but not as much as I love them. They've always treated me like a granddaughter and loved me like one ever since I was a little girl."
Suddenly Josh appears next to them. "And this is where I met Maya for the first time, Mati," he says to his daughter, "when she came to visit grandma and grandpa,….and me, for the first time. And we've been friends ever since." The two share a warm look with each other, which isn't lost on the rest of the little family group in the room, including Alan, Amy, Shawn, and Katy. Slight smiles appear on each of their faces as well as the others. Unbeknownst to almost everyone there, each was thinking the same thing, hoping that maybe the two would get back together again, romantically. But each was afraid to mention it to anyone else.
Maya continued around the room, greeting everyone there. She especially wanted to see Eric and Morgan, who she hasn't seen since before she left for London. Morgan greeted her with a big, long hug and referred to her as her "little sister." Maya looked at her questioningly and said: "you haven't called me that in a long time."
"Not since you were in college and dating my little brother," she reminded her. Maya's eyes grew big with that remark. This was the first time anyone had mentioned her former relationship with Josh since she'd been back home. "You two were so happy together back then. Most of us, if not all of us, believed you two would be together forever."
"It was the happiest time of my life," Maya said before she could stop herself. Morgan had always been easy to talk to, almost as easy as Josh, and she always felt relaxed around her, but still, she didn't want to say out loud what she just said. Morgan could see that Maya was uncomfortable talking about her past relationship with Josh, and understood why. "I'm sorry Maya," she began, "I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable, it's just that seeing you two together again and smiling at one another, it just brought back a lot of good memories of Josh when he was so happy. We haven't had any of those lately."
Maya smiled at the only female Matthews sibling. "It's okay Morgan," Maya tells her. "I've been trying to help Josh, and Mati, heal a little from this terrible tragedy they've been through. I hope I'm doing some good."
"Oh Maya," Morgan says with one of the warmest smiles Maya had ever seen, "you've done more good than anyone could have ever hoped for. I haven't seen Josh since you've gotten back, but I have talked to him on the phone, and I could hear a change just in his voice alone. All he would talk about was how much you'd helped Mati heal; how you've made her smile and laugh again like she did before she lost her mother. And he told me how you calmed Mati's fears when she thought she was going to forget her mother." Maya looked at Morgan in disbelief. She couldn't believe Josh had told Morgan that story. He'd told her she'd handled that very well, but she never thought he'd tell anyone about it. She wasn't ashamed of how she'd handled it, Josh was happy with what she'd done in easing his daughter's fears, but still, to tell Morgan, or anyone for that matter, was something she hadn't expected. "We were both in tears while he was telling me about that," Morgan said, "and he said he thought you'd come back into his life right when he and Mati most needed someone like you."
"Thank you Morgan," Maya begins, "that's sweet of you to say. He's told me the same thing, but I guess I had a hard time believing it. Maybe I should."
''Yes, you should," Morgan says. "He won't talk about himself much," she continues, "but you've helped him tremendously as well. I can see it, and so can everyone else. He's told me how you've gotten him to open up about his loss and how just talking about it has helped. No one else could, but you did."
"And we all love you for it Malala," comes a voice from behind Maya, which she instantly recognizes. She turns to see a big grin splattered across his face. "Eric!" She says excitedly while returning his smile. He holds his arms out for a hug, which Maya gladly accommodates. As the two share their hug, Eric says: "seriously Maya, you've done more good than you realize, I think. But the rest of us can see it, and I mean all of us: mom, dad, and Cory as well as Morgan and I." Maya nods her head in acknowledgement, afraid to say anything out of fear she might lose control of her emotions. When they finally end their hug, Eric says: "so tell me Maya, are you and Josh getting back together again? Because it you are, that'd be great."
"Eric!" Morgan says firmly to get her big brother's attention, then shakes her head indicating for him to not go where this conversation in going. He sees her and returns her nod in understanding. But Maya sees the exchange between the two. "It's okay Eric," she says, "but to answer your question, no, we're not back together again. He's still grieving for Ann, so I'm being the best friend I can be."
Eric takes a moment to think about what Maya's just told him. Finally, he smiles and says: "And that you've been Maya. He's talked to me, as well as Morgan, Cory, and mom & dad, about everything you've done for him and Mati." He pauses for another few seconds as he looks at Maya and contemplates what to say next. "Josh told me once that you had the greatest capacity for love he'd ever seen. I never understood what he meant by that, until now, since you've been back in his life, and if we haven't told you enough, we love you very much for what you've done for him and Mati."
"Done for all of us, Maya," Morgan adds.
"Thank you Eric," Maya says. "I had good influences growing up." The three remain silent for a few seconds, each not knowing what to say next. Then Eric rolls his eyes, shakes his head, and says: "my darn brother and his lessons." With that, they all three laugh and the awkwardness between them subsides.
The rest of the evening was spent catching up with those who haven't seen each other in a while. Maya found herself being the center of a multi-way tug-o-war between her brothers, Riley's daughters, and Mati. The parents of the children kept trying to keep them away from Maya as best they could so they all wouldn't be all over the petite blond all at once, but that proves to be a losing battle. Maya tells them she doesn't mind though; that it's been a long time since she's had this much fun and this many loving her all at once. Then she adds: "the bruises won't last long," as she tackles one of her brothers and they roll across the living room floor. Finally, Amy had enough of the shenanigans, and shouted: "enough!" The room went silent and everyone looked at the matriarch of the family, fearing they had upset her by roughhousing in her house, but then a slight smile appeared on her face. "I'm happy that everyone is having fun getting reacquainted with one another, especially with Maya, and that is in the spirit of this particular holiday, but," she says the "but" with emphases, "I do not want my living room in shambles. So please, just tone it down a little."
"Yes ma'am," the entire room responded, along with a few chuckles. Then Maya's oldest brother, Chet, shouts: "Maya started it!" He has a grin on his face as he looks at his big sister. Maya's mouth flies open as she feints surprise. "Why you little rat!" She answers him through giggles she can't hold back. "Now you're gonna get it!" She jumps on Chet, who's still laying on the floor, and begins to tickle him in his ribs. She hasn't done this in a while but remembered it was his weakness, he was very ticklish, and he still is. He begins laughing hysterically and is unable to get away from Maya who is relentless in her tickling. Finally, with his last breath, Chet shouts:" I give, I give; Maya didn't start it; I did." With that, Maya stops tickling him and begins laughing along with everyone else in the room. When the laughter dies down, Maya helps Chet up off the floor. As he gets his breath back, he stares at this big sister, along with Alan, Maya's other brother, or "little A" as he's called when he's at his grandfathers' house. Maya prepares herself for whatever her two younger siblings are planning on doing next. The two brothers look at one another and then back at her. Then, little A says: "it's good to have you home Sis." Chet nods his head in agreement and says: "yeah, really good Sis."
A huge grin forms on Maya's face and her face turns red as she tries to keep from crying. She can see the sincerity in her brothers faces and realizes how much she's missed them. She throws her arms around their necks and hugs them tight. "You're the best brothers a girl could ever hope for," she begins, "and I love you both so much."
"Love you too Sis," they both say in unison.
Everyone goes back to talking and enjoying the feeling of being with loved ones. Maya notices Mati sitting on the couch by herself. She decides to sit down next to her and see what's on her mind because the little girl seems to be bored. She is the youngest there and sometimes has no one to play with. "Are you having a good time Mati?" She asks. "I am Maya," she answers. "It was fun watching you and Chet wrestle, until grandma made you stop." Maya can't help but laugh at Mati's observation. Seeing that she has nothing to do, Maya asks: "Would you like to draw something Mati? I think everyone here might like to see what you can do. And I bet none of them know how well you can draw."
"I for one would like to see that," Alan says as he sits down beside Maya. "So would I," Amy chimes in as she sits next to Mati, causing her and Alan to bookend Maya and Mati.
"Alright then," Maya says. She looks towards the front door of the house and asks: "Cory, could you hand me my tote bag please?" Cory spies it and says: "coming right up." He hands the tote to Maya who immediately pulls out a sketch pad and drawing pencils. "Draw something for grandpa and grandma Mati," Maya tells her. "I think they'd love to see what you can do now." The little artist looks at the sketch pad for a few seconds and then at her grandparents who are looking at her expectantly. Mati then notices a few others in the room have gathered round the couch they are on and obviously want to see what she does also. "Everyone's watching me Maya," Mati says in a low voice. "I….I don't know what to do." Maya can tell the little girl is nervous. She's never had an audience before while she drew. She smiles at the little girl and pats her gently on one of her hands. "It's okay honey," Maya begins. "They're just interested in what you can do. Your dad, and me, may have bragged to some of them about you." She gives Mati a big smile to assure her that it's okay. "What should I draw?" She asks. "It doesn't matter Mati," Maya answers. "Just pretend you're home and in your room with no one else in there with you and just draw what you feel." Mati nods, thinks for a moment, and then starts to sketch.
She is meticulous in what she's drawing, which means she's not going very fast and the drawing doesn't take form rapidly. Because of this, some of those standing around loose interest in what's she's doing and decide to entertain themselves in other ways and wait till she's finished. Even Alan and Amy, who are sitting close to her, glance away at some point. Maya understands this. To those watching, the creative process can be slow and tedious. But to the artist doing the creating, it's anything but. Maya knows that Mati's mind in awash now with many ideas which she has to wade through to decide what to put on paper. And the farther she goes along, the more ideas seem to form in her mind. The trick, Maya knows, is not to let all those ideas overwhelm you and kill the creative process. And that's where she, as Mati's art mentor, comes into play. She watches the little girl draw and when she notices that Mati may be bogging down somewhat, she encourages her to slow down a bit, pause, take a big breath, and relax before continuing. When she realizes this really helps her, she thanks Maya for the advice and continues. Maya's happy she's helped, hugs her slightly, and kisses the top of her head. After about a little more than half an hour of drawing, Mati holds up her finished sketch and asks Maya what she thinks of it. "It's beautiful Mati," the older artist replies. "It's one of the best drawings you've done so far.
"Well then, let's see it then," Amy declares. Mati looks at Maya with worry on her face. Maya can see Mati's worried about showing her drawing to her grandparents because she doesn't want to disappoint them. Maya understands that the little girl doesn't yet have the confidence she should, but believes that will come in time. "It's okay Mati," she tells her little student, "they'll like it, I'm sure."
She hands her drawing to her grandmother and waits for her reaction. Alan gets up and moves to the side of the couch that Amy is on so he can see it too. The two oldest Matthews are pleasantly surprised at what they see. Mati's drawn a cornucopia, or a horned-shaped basket, filled with fruit and vegetables with leaves scattered around it. The drawing is mostly done in pencil, but Mati did add some fall colors for the season. It's simple but pleasing to look at. "I saw this on a poster in a store dad and I were in last week, and I thought it was pretty," Mati says in explanation. Under the drawing, she'd drawn, in script, the word: "Thankful."
"Mati, honey," her grandmother says. "I had no idea you could do anything like this. Like Maya said, it's beautiful."
"Thanks grandma," Mati returns with a smile. "I'm glad you like it. Maya says I got my talent from my mom and not my dad." Everyone looks at Maya for an explanation. "It has to be," she begins. "All the Matthews I've known have had many wonderful traits. Doing art is not one of them." There's silence for a few seconds and Maya wonders if she's offended any of the Mathews clan that's in the room. While she hopes not, it's the truth and she's not backtracking on what she said. "Well, she's not wrong," Josh finally says to break the silence. "I'm proof of that," Riley says in defense of her best friend. After a little more silence, Morgan says: "Oh come on Matthews family, we were all thrilled when we got 'C's' in art class when we were in school." This finally gets a round of laughter in the room. The rest of the evening is spent relaxing and watching movies.
As everyone, that isn't staying at the senior Matthews' home, is getting ready to leave for the evening, Mati runs up to Maya and the older artist gives the little girl a hug and says: "I'll see you tomorrow Mati." She smiles down at Mati and continues: "Tomorrow is going to be a fun day; I just know it." This gets a big smile and a return hug from Mati. "See you tomorrow morning Maya," Josh says. The two exchange warm smiles as Maya says: "Yeah, see you then Josh." The two hold each other's gaze for a few seconds before Maya leaves. That evening, as Riley and Farkle are getting ready for be in their hotel room, Farkle hugs his wife tenderly and says: "don't get involved with them honey. Let them decide where their relation will go".
Riley looks at her husband in frustration and says in her defense: "You saw how they looked at each other, everyone did."
"I did," he answers. "And believe me, nothing would make me happier that to see them back together again like they were in college. But,…." He begins while holding a finger to Riley's mouth to stop whatever she was about to say, "we have to leave them alone when it comes to this. Like I've told you before, they're different people now than they were when they were in college. And interfering might do more damage than good." Riley finally relents….again. She has never lost her inclination to "fix" things. "I just want them to be happy,' she says.
"I know you do darling," Farkle says as he kisses her gently. "But we have to trust that life knows what's it doing." Riley nods silently and kisses her husband back and nothing more is said about her best friend and uncle the rest of the evening.
The next morning, Thanksgiving Day, people begin arriving at the Mathews' home to get this day of thanks started. The morning is filled with more laughter, stories, and companionship. Amy had prepared a light breakfast for everyone, a smorgasbord of light snacks to eat with the attention of not ruining dinner. This was easy for the adults, but the children had to be constantly reminded: "you'll ruin your dinner." While snacking, all the younger women helped Amy prepare the Thanksgiving dinner. Maya insisted on helping so she could spend more time with Amy and the other women of the family. Amy tried to shoo them off, insisting she didn't need help, but Maya let her know quickly that it was not going to happen.
As dinner time approached, Amy instructed to the men to start setting up tables for everyone to eat on. It was crowded, but with a little ingenuity, everyone could be seated within talking distance of each other. Next, the plates, glasses, napkins, and silverware were placed at each chair. Finally, the food was placed on the tables so the largest dinner ever prepared at the Matthew's home could begin.
Before they began though, Alan stood up to address the assembled family. "Before we get started," he begins, "Amy and I have decided we should revise an old Thanksgiving family tradition."
"Not the 'What I'm thankful for' recitations dad, please," Cory says as he rolls his eyes. "You only see those on TV shows now." Amy stairs daggers at her middle son, then looks at his wife with a knowing glance and states: "Topanga." The wife in question immediately gives Cory a light smack on the back of his head. "Owe!" Cory shrieks as he looks at his wife. "What was that for?!" He asks. "You know what that was for Cory," she answers, but with a grin. Cory finally grins and says: "Yeah, I guess I do," he agrees. "Please continue dad."
Alan just looks at Cory and shakes his head and grins. "Anyway," Alan continues, "Cory was correct. Since this is the first time in a while, we've had all of our children," he looks around the room, then his eyes stop on Shawn and Katy, letting them know he includes them in their family as he always has, "our grandchildren," he continues, and again looks around the room with his eyes stopping on Maya this time, for the same reason he'd stopped on her parents, "all under one roof, and now our two great-grandchildren," we decided that tradition should be revised this year, with one exception: no one has to say anything if they don't want to. It's all voluntary." He pauses to let that sink in, then continues. "I'll go first, and we don't have to go by age either. Amy and I are thankful that we've lived long enough to see our children grow up to be the fine adults they've become. And we're thankful that we've lived long enough to see our grandchildren grow into fine adults as well. And we're especially thankful to have seen our great-grandchildren. Starting out as a young couple, we could never have dreamed of or come up with a better life than we have. And while there has been some tragedy, most has been joyful."
After pausing again, Alan finishes with: "Now, if anyone else would like to say something, now is the time." To Alan and Amy's surprise, others wanted to say what they're thankful for. Eric was thankful that he'd gotten out of what he called "the dirty game of politics" and was happily in a "real job" now. Morgan and Cory both said that them, and their spouses, were thankful, like their parents, for seeing their children grow up into fine adults. Riley, as expected, was thankful for her husband and children, but this time she added how thankful she is able to spend time with her best friend after a decade of separation. When she looked at Maya, the famous artist blew her a kiss. Chet and Alan (Little A) both said they were thankful for all the food in front of them, "if", as Chet put it, "we could get to eating it." This got laughter from everyone except for their parents and big sister, who just looked embarrassed. Riley's twin girls then said: "what Chet and Alan said," the room erupted in laughter again.
After the laughter died down, there was a brief moment of silence. Then Alan asked, "would anyone else like to say anything? Remember, it's strictly voluntary. It's okay to say nothing." After a short pause. Alan was about to say: "let's eat," when his youngest spoke: "I would like to say something." Everyone looked at Josh; most were surprised; believing he had nothing to be thankful for. Josh smiled slightly at their surprised looks. "As I'm sure you all know, I haven't had much to be thankful for lately." This gets knowing and sympathetic looks for everyone. "But I haven't been completely without something to be thankful for. Despite my loss, I've had the most amazing daughter to keep me going." He looks down at Mati, who is sitting beside him, and smiles; she returns his smile. "I can see Ann in her face. She has her mother's bright smile and from what I've been told, she inherited Ann's art talent as well." This draws smiles and a few chuckles from everyone.
"At first, after our loss, Mati was all I focused on; trying to make her days a little easier; a little brighter. And that kept me going for a while. But my own sorry soon got the best of me. Mati realized it and help brighten my days." After a pause, Josh looks at those sitting with him at the dinner table, then continues. "Everyone here had a hand in getting us through this, from Cory and Topanga taking time off from work to be with me all the time, to mom and dad letting Mati and I stay with them for a while, and for lending two strong shoulders for me to lean on and cry on; to Shawn, the coolest guy I know, doing the coolest thing I've ever seen: crying with me when I needed to." Josh pauses again and swallows. "But there's one person at this table who has done more for Mati and me than she, and maybe everyone else could ever realize." He reaches across to the other side of Mati to where Maya is sitting; Mati insisted on sitting between her dad and Maya; and takes her hand in his and gently holds it. This surprises Maya. "An old friend reunited with me just when Mati and I needed her the most." He looks intently at Maya now, and smiles. "We were happy, Mati and I, but truthfully, the joy had gone out of our lives, and I had given up on ever getting that joy back. But then, seemingly out of nowhere, Maya walked back into my life and all that changed. She seemed to instinctively know what I, and Mati, needed. I won't go into details, but she got me to open up about my grief and calmed Mati's fears about losing her mom." He paused again and continued to hold Maya's eyes with his. "And I shall be eternally grateful. And that, is something to be thankful for."
Everyone is speechless but overjoyed with Josh's Thanksgiving thanks. "Well said son," Alan says softly, breaking the silence. Maya, still looking at Josh, become teary eyed, and a single tear runs down her cheek. "Josh, I….I don't know what to say," Maya finally gets out. "Nothing to say, Maya," he answers. "I'm just thankful for you."
Again, there is silence at the table, until Mati speaks up. "Can I say something grandpa?" She asks. "Of course you can honey," Alan answers her, "go right ahead." Mati smiles and nods her head. "I have a lot to be thankful for too," she begins. "After mom died, I was scared and confused. I didn't understand what was going on. But as dad said, everyone at this table helped me." She smiles brightly and continues. "Even Chet and Alan played with me, though they used to say they didn't like hanging out with little girls."
"We still don't Mati," Chet piped up. "But mom and dad made us." This gets further laughter from the group, because everyone knew Chet was joking. The two Hunter boys had voluntarily hung out and played with Mati as much as they could. Shawn and Katy were very proud of them.
"But most of all," Mati continued, "I'm most thankful for my new best friend, Maya. Dad has done a great job at being my dad, but ya know, there's just some things you want to talk to another girl about." This gets smiles, a little laughter, and knowing looks from everyone. Maya can't take her eyes off the little girl sitting beside her, who's stolen her heart.
"I'd like to say what I'm thankful for grandpa Matthews," Maya says. After Alan gives her knowing nod, Maya begins. "As this holiday approached, it's caused me to reflect on what I'm thankful for. I didn't know we were going to revise this old tradition, but I did remember doing it in the past, and that caused me to reflect." Maya pauses for a second to collect her thoughts. "I could spend all day talking about what I'm thankful for; starting with the day I crawled into Riley's room when I was six years old; a day that changed my life forever, for the better, and mom's life as well. But I'd like to concentrate on the past ten years or so, especially the last few months since I've been back home. Ten years ago, with the support of family and friends, I took a leap of faith. I moved to where art began, Europe, to study art. I was thankful I had the will to work hard and sacrifice to chase my dream and make those who've always believed in me proud." She looks right at Riley when she says this. "And while I'm thankful for the opportunity to come home for a short while to be with family and friends, I am most thankful that I had the….whatever it is inside of me, that gave me the ability to help an old friend, and his daughter, in there time of need. I don't know where it came from, but I'm thankful it was there." She pauses now and looks down at the smiling little girl next to her. "And I am very thankful for my new best friend, Mati. She's been a joy to me ever since the first day I met her." She leans down and kisses Mati on her cheek. "I love you Maya," Mati suddenly says and hugs Maya tight. Maya's voice cracks as she says back to her: "I love you too honey."
There is a long moment of comfortable silence in the room as everyone's eyes are locked on the famous artist and her newest protégé, during which a few sniffles cand be heard. Maya notices the silence and says: "okay, let's eat before my brothers start throwing rolls and who knows what else at me." This gets a round of laughter from everyone and Alan says: "let's eat everyone."
The rest of the afternoon is spent devouring large amounts of delicious food and everyone enjoying each other's company. Stories are told, sometimes embarrassing stories, of childhood and teenage years. Maya is the center of many of these stories as some of the deeds and misdeeds of her teen years are relived. Maya just rolls with the punches and rolls her eyes at times to some of the stories. When some of the younger family members eye Maya with surprise, she retorts: "they're exaggerating guys….well, on some maybe not….but most they are. Okay, enough picking on me, how about we talk about Riley's senior year of high school and freshman year in college."
This gets a large shriek from both Riley and her father. "Mama!?" Riley's twin girls say, with surprise, at the same time. Farkle comes to his wife's defense. "Aunt Mayas just teasing girls," he says. "Your mom was a perfect angle during all her school years." Riley looks at her husband lovingly for his defense of her. "Yeah, while she was asleep," Maya retorts, which get howls of laughter from all the adults, except Riley, but even she can't suppress a small smile.
After dinner is over, the men retreat to the living room to watch football after Amy shoos them out of her kitchen. She enlists the help of some of her grandchildren to help cleanup and wash dishes. While this is going on, the adult women gather around the table to enjoy some coffee and conversation, without the mention of pre-adulthood antics or football. A few hours later, Josh comes back into the kitchen asks Mati if she's ready to go. "Ready to go where?" Maya asks. "We're going to go visit mom," Mati says. Josh sees his old friend is confused and explains further: "Whenever we visit here, Mati and I go to Ann's grave, to let her know how we're doing." Then Mati says: "I think she'll be happy to see how we're doing now, Maya, and it's because of you that she'll see we're much happier now."
Maya has to choke back a sob. "That's so sweet of you to say Mati," she says as she scoops the little girl up in her arms and kisses her cheek. "I love you Maya," Mati says as Maya hugs her. When she releases Mati, she once again looks into the most loving eyes she's ever seen. "I love you to baby gir….I mean honey." That Freudian slip wasn't lost on Riley, Topanga, or Katy, but none know what to make of it. Maya, hoping no one noticed what she just said, looks at Josh and Mati and says: "I think that's a wonderful thing for you both to do Mati."
"Tell Ann hello from all of us Mati," Morgan says, breaking the slight tension at the table. She knows of Josh and Mati's ritual of visiting Ann's grave when they're in Philadelphia.
After Josh and Mati leave, Alan walks into the kitchen, looks at Amy, who nods at him, then approaches Maya and asks: "Got a few minutes for your old grandpa and grandma?" Maya smiles, and says: "Always got time for you." They retreat to the back patio, which is a little chilly, but not unbearable. Maya turns and faces the elder Matthews and looks at them with questioning eyes. Alan smiles and says: "Maya, we told you earlier that we wanted to speak to you about what you've done since being back in New York, and it had nothing to do with your art." Maya nods her head, indicating she understands. "You've been so good for Mati and Josh." She looks at them in surprise, not expecting them to say what they did. "You may not know it, but we know what you've been doing with them." When Maya looks at them confused, Alan continues: "Every since Josh moved back to New York, he calls us almost every day; usually after Mati's bedtime. It was his way of coping with what happened to Ann. We could tell this helped and he was getting better, along with Mati, but he still wasn't the same as he was before. Most didn't pick up on it, but his family did. But things began to change, for the better, when you came back into his life. He's told us about everything you've done for him: listening to him, giving him a shoulder to lean on, and to cry on, and crying with him. He said you got him to open up and talk about his loss and his concern for Mati. And that alone has lifted his spirits. His smile and the twinkle in his eyes are almost back to normal, as well as his laugh. And the same goes for Mati. You've helped him so much Maya, and for that, we are forever grateful."
Maya says noting for a few seconds, slightly stunned by Alan's kind words. "Thank you grandpa," she finally says. "That means so much to me, coming from you, and I've heard it from others as well." She swallows, collection her thoughts, then smiles at them slightly. "I don't know where it came from, especially with Mati, but I'm just glad I had whatever it is, and was able to help them both."
"I know what it was, Maya," Amy says. "It was the mothering instinct in you. Most women have it and you certainly do."
"Whoa, whoa, whoa, grandma," Maya exclaims, "I'm not trying to be Mati's mom. She had a mom, a wonderful mom, who was irreplaceable. I'm just trying to ease her fears and pain some." Alan and Amy look at one another and smile. "We know you're not trying to be her mom Maya," Amy says, "and so does everyone else. But what I meant was, you've instinctively known what to say to her and when to say it. Josh told us the story about how you showed Mati that she'd never forget her mother; and how you defended her at your art show from some rude woman and told Mati she did nothing wrong; and how you straightened out everyone is Mati's art class, including her teacher, that Mati wasn't lying when she said she knew you." Maya smiles at that. She knew she was probably pretty rough on her teacher, but in the end, it all worked out. "And there's probably a hundred other little things you've done for her that Josh hasn't mentioned," Amy continues. "Maya, you've done more for both of them that anyone else has or could do, I believe. And Josh has told us more than once that you came into their lives right when they needed someone like you the most. It's simply a debt that can never be repaid."
Maya is near tears after listening to what they've just told her. Finally, she's able to say something back to them. "There is no debt to be paid grandma. The fact that I've helped them to be happy again is more that I could have ever hoped for." The three share a family hug. "This family means so much to me. I'd do anything for you guys," Maya says as she releases Alan and Amy. The door to the patio opens, and the rest of the family comes out to see what's going on with the eldest Matthews and Maya. When Alan sees their inquisitive looks, he says: "We've just been thanking Maya for everything she's done for Josh and Mati since she's been back." Everyone there echo's Alan and Amy's sentiments. Shawn and Katy embrace their daughter and Katy tells her: "We're proud of you Maya." As Maya looks around at this family that has given her everything, she says: "This has been the best Thanksgiving ever."
Christmas
The door to Cory and Topanga's apartment suddenly flies open, revealing Maya, who shouts: "Merry Christmas everyone. Sorry I'm running late. I was wrapping these last few presents." Riley runs to her best friends aid and says: "Let me help you Maya. You should have called so someone could have helped you with these."
"It's not a problem Riles," she responds. "Most of mine are already here anyway, these are just a few small ones for the kids."
"Well, we were about to start dinner without you," Josh says with a smile as he helps Riley with the gifts. Before she can respond, Mati says loudly: "No we weren't dad! We would never start Christmas dinner without Maya." She marches over to Maya, turns to face everyone in the room, folds her arm in front of her chest, and dares anyone to disagree. And no one does, but it does get a round of laughter from everyone. The food is put on the tables and everyone finally settles down to eat. Eric and Morgan are spending Christmas this year with their spouses' families, but other than that, everyone that was at Thanksgiving dinner in Philadelphia, is at Corey and Topanga's, which made for a crowded but happy apartment. Mati, as usual, wants to sit next to Maya, but Josh makes her sit with the other kids at the kids' table. He doesn't want the other kids to think Mati is getting preferential treatment. She protests at first, but Maya calms her down and promises she can sit with her on the floor when they open gifts, which makes the bubbly little girl happy.
After dinner, and after much teasing of the kids that dishes much be washed before opening gifts, which gets groans and several "Please, can we open gifts now?" from all the youngsters, they're told it's time to open gifts. The kids are assigned to be gift distributors. They do a good job until they have a couple of gifs in their pile, and then one by one they abandon their jobs so they can open their gifts. This gets good-natured eye rolls from the adults, and Riley and Maya volunteer to finish the gift giving. There's a lot of laughter and excitement as wrapping paper is torn from boxes and gifts are exposed. As much as the adults enjoy their gifts, the gift of joy from watching the children open their gifts brings far more happiness than material gifts.
As things finally begin to wear down and paper begins to be gathered up along with empty boxes, Mati looks at her dad with inquisitive eyes, who nods at his excited daughter. Mati turns to Maya and says: "Maya, I have one more gift for you." She looks at her little companion and answers: "Oh, you do? One more?" This gets everyone's attention because no one by Mati and Josh knew this was going to happen. "Here Maya," she says, as she hands Maya a small, neatly-wrapped box. It's about as wide as Maya's hand and twice that in length, and about an inch thick. When Maya gets the wrapping paper off, she finds a plain, white, cardboard box. She slides the top off and as soon as she does, she gasps out loud, which silences the whole room. "Oh, Mati," she says as she looks at the gift inside. "Do you like it Maya?" The little girl asks. "I love it," she answers as tears blur her vision. Laying the simple box is a beautiful, golden, heart-shaped locket, attached to a golden chain. And engraved on the outside of the locket are the words: In Our Hearts. "It opens Maya; open it," the little girl pleads. Maya finds the button that opens the lock and pushes it. When she does, the locket springs open. What Maya sees inside causes her tears to overflow and trickle down her face. On the left side of the locket is a picture of Josh and Mati. And on the right is another engraving which reads: Always and Forever. Maya is stunned into silence with what she holds in her hands. "Do you really like it Maya?" Mati asks with an anxious voice, still wondering if Maya truly likes her gift. Maya's heart swells as she looks at the little girl. She brushes the tears from her cheeks, looks at Mati with loving eyes, and says: "It's the most beautiful gift I've ever received Mati; thank you." With that, she takes Mati in her arms and squeezes her tight, trying to find some way to express how she truly feels about this gift, but fails. And through still blurry eyes she sees Josh looking at her with a satisfied smile on this face. Believing this was at least partially his idea, she silently mouths the words: "Thank you." Josh looks at her in surprise and says: "Don't thank me. This was all Mati's idea. The locket, the picture, the engravings, everything, was all her idea. All I did was find a jeweler who could engrave it."
She finally let's go of Mati and tries to clear her eyes. Suddenly a familiar hand appears next to her head with a tissue in it. "Thanks Riles," she answers without even looking. "I'm glad you like the locket," Mati says. "I wanted to get you something that would remind you of dad and me." Maya, clutching the locket in her hand, smiles at this sweet girl she's learned to love. Then she brings the locket to her mouth and kisses it. "Mati," she finally says when she gets her voice back, "I will cherish this gift for as long as I live." Maya pauses for a second as a thought pops into her head. "Mati," she begins, "most people don't know this, but the chain on a locket like this is made to a specific length. If it was longer, it'd hand down around my belly button. If it was shorter, it would be up around my neck like a chocker. But because it's this length, it hangs in the middle of my chest….next to my heart. And that's where it should be." This gets a warm smile from the little girl as she scoots next to Maya to snuggle. Then Maya thinks of something else. She holds up the index finger of her right hand. "Mati," she begins, "do you know what this is?" Mati sees the ring on Maya's index finger and answers: "Of course I do Maya. It's the friendship ring Riley gave you on your fourteenth birthday." Maya smiles at her answer. "Yes, it is," she says. "And I can't describe how much this ring means to me. It's the most precious thing I own. It meant so much to me that I told Riley that I would never take it off for as long as I live, and I haven't." She looks over to her best friend and the two exchange knowing smiles as Riley holds up her friendship ring. When she looks back at Mati, she continues: "I never thought I've ever own anything else that would mean that much to me, but now I do." Before she can even turn around, that same familiar hand appears asking for the locket so she can help put it around Maya's neck. Riley and Maya can still read each other's minds. Maya pulls her hair away from her neck so Riley can put the locket around her and clasp it in the back. After she has, Maya looks at Mati and says to her: "I'll never take this off Mati for as long as I live. That's what it means to me. And in the future when I'm feeling sad or down, I'll take this locket, looks at it, and open it to see you and your dad's picture and read what it says, and I'll feel better. I'll feel better because it'll remind me how lucky I am to have you and your dad in my life." She takes Mati in her arms then, hugs her tight, and says: "I love you Mati, I love you so much." Mati answers with "I love you too Maya." By now, there's not a dry eye in the room because of what everyone's witnessed.
The rest of the evening is spent cleaning up the living room and seeing what everyone got for Christmas presents. Everyone was excited to see the locket that Maya now wore around her neck. When it was Riley's turn, Maya said: "Bay window; bay window right now." She wanted a special place to show it to Riley. As they sat in their old spot, Maya let Riley look at the locket all she wanted, but of course it never left her neck. "It's beautiful Maya," Riley says, "there's a lot of love in that locket, just like on our friendship rings. "You didn't know anything about this?" Maya asks. "No, I didn't," her best friend answers, "no one did."
As the two friends continue looking at the locket, there's a knock on the door. They both looks up to see Amy standing in the open doorway. "Hi grandma," they both say in unison, which causes Amy to smile. "I haven't seen the locket yet Maya, may I look at it now?"
Of course grandma Matthews," Maya answers. Riley, sensing that her grandmother may also want to talk with Maya alone says: "Come sit here grandma," she says as she gets up and indicates the place where she was sitting. "I need to check on my girls and make sure Farkle isn't overwhelmed with them." This gets a chuckle for Maya and Amy. After the senior Matthews sits next to Maya, Maya hands the locket to her while still keeping it on. After taking a few moments to look at it inside and out, Amy says: "It's as beautiful as you said it was Maya. I know you must love it."
"I do," Maya says. "This was completely unexpected and I will cherish it forever. Did you know about this? She asks. "No, I didn't Maya," Amy answers. "No one did apparently except Mati and Josh." Maya nods her head at that. Then she looks at Amy and says: "Your son has raised an amazing daughter." Then Maya smiles as she remembers something from her past. "Riley's always told people that I was easy to love. I don't think I fully understood that, until Mati came into my life. And I'm so grateful Josh lets me hang out with her."
After a moment of contemplation from Amy as she looks at Maya admiring her locket, she asks: "Have you told him how you feel about him Maya?" Maya freezes at Amy's question. She finally looks at her surrogate grandmother and asks: "Told who about what feelings grandma?" Even Maya knew that wasn't very convincing. "You know what I'm talking about Maya," Amy states flatly. Finally Maya gives in and asks: "Am I that obvious?" This gets a warm-hearted chuckle from Maya. "No," she answers with a smile. "But I've raised four children and have grandchildren and great-grandchildren. And I've learned to pick up on certain things." Maya nods at that. "And I wouldn't be surprised if your mom and Topanga suspect it as well." Maya smiles and says: "they know, along with dad & Cory and Riley & Farkle. I told them, but no one else knows." She continues: "when I realized I had feelings for Josh, I felt guilty." She knew Amy would wonder why she thought that and went on. "I felt guilty because instead of being Josh's friend when he needed someone the most, I wanted to go out with him." Before she could say anything else Amy speaks up: "I hope everyone told you that was ridiculous; you're a good person Maya and you can't help the way you feel about someone." Maya smiled at Amy and continued. "They did, and I got over it, but not my feelings for him. So to answer your question, no, I haven't told him."
"Why haven't you Maya?" Amy asks. "I can see this is troubling you." She looks at Amy, a little surprised and answers: "I guess I'm afraid he doesn't feel the same way, and that would hurt." Suddenly Maya thinks of something, looks at Amy, and asks: "Wait, you know Josh as well as anyone, you're his mother and can pick up on things. Do you know if he feels the same about me?" Amy smiles at Maya, seeing the hope on her face, but answers: "No Maya, I'm afraid not. I used to be able to read him fairly easily. When you were in high school, I could tell he liked you, even if he wouldn't admit it." This gets a knowing smile from Maya. "But ever since he lost Ann, I haven't been able to read him at all. Maybe someday I'll be able to again, but I can't now. I know he loves you Maya, as a friend, because of what you've done for him and Mati, but other than that, I can't help." Maya nods her head as she absorbs what Amy's just told her. "So I guess I'm on my own with this aren't I?" Amy gives her a sympathetic smile and says: "I'm sorry honey. I wish I could help, but yes, you're on your own I'm afraid." After she gives Maya a moment to think, she adds: "But I think you need to tell him Maya. Clear the air on this, and deal with what comes with it. Either way, you'll be better off." Maya sighs and nods her head in understanding. "If it helps any honey," Amy begins, "if you two ever did get together again, that would make a lot of people happy. Especially your parents and Josh's." This gets a surprised look from Maya. But when she sees Amy's knowing and loving smile, she knows what she has to do. She's just now sure how or when she's going to tell him.