Season 5 Episode 9: Letty's Motherhood Journey
Disclaimer: I don't own anything from the Fast and Furious Franchise.
Friday February 13th, 2016
Rocket & Roll Bowling Alley
4:00 p.m.
Third Person POV
Brian and Mia drove down from Phoenix to watch Darryl and Alyssa's bowling match against the Jaguars to support their younger family members. The other crew members were also in attendance, making it the first time in months that everyone was under the same roof collectively.
Brian, Mia, Letty, and Roman conversed while Dom, Tej, and Ramsey were at the cafe grabbing snacks and refreshments.
"It feels good to be back in LA. Even if it's only for the weekend." Mia said
"I agree, honey. It's exciting to witness Darryl partake in something new. Speaking of Roman, how was filming for New Girl?" Brian asked.
Roman leans back in his seat with a cheeky grin. "It was amazing. I can see acting as a secondary career for me. But was there ever any doubt? I excel in every task given to me."
The three adults roll their eyes.
"And here I thought Hollywood changed you. Same ol' classic Roman." Letty chuckled before taking a sip out of her thermos.
"What are you drinking, Letty?" Brian asked curiously.
"Ginger Tea."
"I thought you hated ginger?" Roman adds.
Letty nods. "I do. But I've been feeling nauseous lately, and apparently, ginger helps ease an upset stomach. You get use to the taste."
Roman shrugs in response. A few seconds later, the remaining adults return with a platter of fries, nachos, onion rings, and beer.
"Yes, finally! I'm starving!" Mia said
"And I'm parched. Hand me a beer, would ya?" Roman asked as he motioned for the tray to be handed to him.
"Patience, Roman," Dom replied as he set down the tray.
"There's something about bowling alley food that makes it extremely delicious!" Ramsey said as she munched on an onion ring.
"The food here reminds me of Bob's Burgers and More. I'll have to introduce you sometime, Ramsey." Tej noted.
Ramsey winks at Tej. "It's a date."
"Woah, Woah! Are you going on a date? To a place I Introduced you to?!" Roman yelped, with a hint of jealousy present in his voice.
"Just a friend date, Roman. Don't get your panties in a bunch. I'm sorry, boxers." Tej replied as he chuckled, remembering their game of Truth or Dare last December.
Roman narrows his eyes. "Un-huh, I got my eye on you two!"
As everyone continues to eat, Dom observes that Letty hasn't touched any of the food.
"Do you still feel nauseous?" He asked.
"Yeah. This is my fourth cup of tea, and my stomach still hates me." Letty said.
Dom lends in to kiss his wife's forehead. "I'm sorry, love. When we get home, I'll whip you up this home remedy my grandma would make. It works like a charm.
Letty smiles in response. "I like the sound of that."
The loudspeakers then come to life with a message;
Good Afternoon Ladies and Gentleman,
Please welcome the San Diego Jaguars & The Los Angeles Foxes, brought to you by Crawford High & Silver Fox High!
The audience claps as the swarm of high school students merges onto the lanes. As Darryl waltzes in with Alyssa in tow, He scans the tables and takes notice of Brian and Mia. The younger blond instantly lights up with glee and hugs his brother and sister-in-law.
"Brian! Mia! You guys came!" Darryl expressed
"Of course, kiddo! We wouldn't miss this for the world!" Brian replied.
"Exactly! We've missed you, Darryl!" Mia added with a joyful smile.
Darryl grins in response before snagging a french fry. "I'll be sure to make you guys proud!"
After Darryl runs off to join his teammates, Roman turns to face his family. "Damn, what are we, chopped liver?"
"I'm sure it's nothing personal, Roman. He hasn't seen Brian and Mia in over a month. So Darryl is just excited to see them." Dom assured him.
"Besides, Alyssa didn't even bother to come to say hi to me," Tej said with a huff.
Ramsey gasps in disbelief. "Oh my goodness, you two are such babies! It's not like you see them every day."
"I'm just saying, Tv stars need love too, Ramsey," Roman replied.
The remaining adults shake their heads before returning their attention to their teen family members.
Let the games begin.
An hour and a half later-
"The San Diego Jaguars have a fourteen-point advantage over the Los Angeles Foxes. Can junior Darryl O'Conner bring home the victory for his school or succumb to defeat?" The announcer said over the loudspeaker.
Darryl's heart skips a beat. "Wow, way to put on the pressure!"
This comment is overheard by the opposing team, causing them to laugh tauntingly.
"What's wrong, O'Conner? Afraid you'll lose? I'd be too if I were you." Said one of the students.
Darryl lets out a suppressed huff. "Just ignore them, Darryl."
Darryl then positions himself on dots, and the bowling soars down the lane after a solid follow-through, resulting in a strike.
"You got this, bro! Just four pins, and you win!" Brian shouted.
After grabbing my ball again, I reenacted my same routine and ended with another strike.
The crowd cheers and applauds in favor of Silver Fox High's victory.
"And that's a wrap. The Los Angeles Foxes reign victorious over the San Diego Jaguars , Stellar performance all-around!"
Darryl and Alyssa high-fived each other.
"We did it!" Darryl yelled
"Heck ya, we did! Suck it, San Diego!" Alyssa said.
The Jaguars pout and storm away. The two teens then go over to where their family is seated. A series of congratulations' were shared amongst the group.
Mia hugs both teens. "This is so exciting! You both get to stay on the bowling team."
"It FeElS WeIrD To be ApArt oF a SpOrTs TeAM," Darryl replied with a cracked voice.
Darryl covers his mouth in shock as Brian and Mia's eyes widen.
"Did your voice just crack?" Tej asked.
Darryl shrugs. "I GuEsS So? WhAt Is HApPeNiNg?"
Brian lets out a thoughtful hum. "I think I know what's going on."'
~The Fast & Furious Family Chronicle~
Saturday, February 14th, 2016
LA Health Medical Group
10:45 a.m.
Brian's POV
I booked an impromptu doctor's appointment for Darryl's cracking voice. If my suspicions are correct, I believe my little brother is approaching puberty's last stage, and his voice is dropping. But if I'm wrong, at least we'll get answers about what is happening.
"You okay?" I asked.
Darryl's body tenses up at my question. He stops rocking back and forth to look in my direction. "I'm just embarrassed about yesterday."
"How come? You did such an amazing job!" I stated.
"Not from bowling. But from my voice cracking all of a sudden."
"Darryl, it's normal for that to happen during puberty."
"Yeah, but I'm 17! Shouldn't I be done with that stuff?"
"Everyone evolves at their own pace. Nothing to be ashamed of!"
Darryl raised a brow. "Oh yeah? Were you a late bloomer as well?"
I contemplated my response. Do I lie to make my brother feel better or be honest? No, Brian, you have to tell him the truth. Being deceitful won't get me anywhere.
"I mean-yes and no? I started puberty at 12 and finished before my 16th birthday. Middle School was an absolute nightmare."
I couldn't help but shiver at the thought of reliving 6th, 7th, and 8th Grades.
"I guess that's not too far off from me?"
"Exactly! I'm sure everything will be fine!"
A knock on the door turns Darryl, and I's attention to Doctor Mitchell walking into the room with a clipboard.
"Good news Mr. O'Conner, we couldn't find anything out of the ordinary from your lab results. However, your testosterone levels have significantly increased since your last visit in October 2015. And it appears from the x-ray that your larynx is expanding, resulting in the arrival of an Adam's apple."
"Which means my voice is dropping?" Darryl concluded.
"Precisely. But unfortunately, there's not much we can do to prevent voice cracking. However, I would recommend drinking plenty of water and keeping stress levels to a minimum if possible. I wish you the best of luck, Darryl. " Dr. Mitchell said before exiting the room.
Darryl chuckles lightly. "I wish I could keep my stress levels down. But the SAT is one month away, and I don't feel prepared."
"Don't worry, bro. Mia and I will pay for you to attend that SAT workshop you mentioned. I'm sorry we can't be home more to help you study. But, I believe in your capabilities." I answered back.
"That makes one of us. But thank you, Brian. I appreciate the help."
"Anytime, kiddo!"
I can't believe my little brother is growing up so fast. Where has the time gone?
~The Fast & Furious Family Chronicle~
Saturday, February 14th, 2016
Toretto Household
12:05 p.m.
Letty's POV
It all makes sense now—constant nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and a missed monthly visit.
And the stick displaying two blue lines confirmed my suspicion that I was pregnant.
I let out a nervous gulp as a result. No biggie, right? I'm already a mom to little Brian. Yet, why can't I shake these oncoming feelings of panic? Hell, I should be thrilled! I've always wanted multiple kids. Now, Dom and I will have two.
My eyes widened. Oh shit, how is Dom going to react? With everything going on with Cipher and project snowflake, I won't be any help to the crew for nine months. You can't run and move fast with a pregnant belly.
Calm down, Letty. Everything will be fine. There is, however, one person I can call. Someone I haven't spoken to in ages. But it's better than nothing.
I reached for my phone and dialed the number. The recipient picks up after the second ring.
"Hello?"
"Hey, Mama"
"Oh my goodness-Leticia! Darling, it's so good to hear from you. ¿Esta's bien?"
I sighed. "No, mamá. ¿Podemos hablar? ¿Todavía vives en Los Ángeles?"
"I actually live in Puerto Vallarta."
"Perfect. I'll hop on a plane tonight."
"And I shall pick you up from the airport. Let me know when you arrive."
"I will. Adiós, mamá. ¡Hasta pronto!"
"¡Hasta pronto, mija!"
After hanging up, I toss my phone on the bathroom counter. I can't believe I will see my estranged mother after all these years. So let's hope this trip to Mexico will be worth it.
~The Fast & Furious Family Chronicle~
Sunday, February 15th, 2016
In & Out Burger
Los Angeles CA, 1:26 p.m.
Third Person POV
"Thanks for meeting with me, Roman," Eric said.
Roman smiles in response. "Anytime, Little Nobody. You can't go wrong with burgers and fries."
"Agreed."
"So tell me-What's going on?"
"What makes you think something is wrong?"
Roman rolls his eyes. "Because I know you, Eric."
"Oh, do you?" Eric said with a huff.
"Yep. You've got that worry line on your forehead. You only get those when you're stressed, and I'm usually the one who causes them, So spill."
"Alright, fine! Remember my friend Jake?"
"The one that's in jail?"
"Yep. Except he got out early for good behavior. I tried talking to him to reconcile our differences. But things didn't go according to plan-" Eric uttered as his words trailed off.
"What happened?" Roman asked.
"Jake called me a foul human, said my betrayal was inexcusable, and that he never wanted to see me again."
After his explanation, Eric groans in frustration.
Roman gives his friend a sympathetic look. "I'm sorry, man."
"I just don't know what to do, Roman. He's the first real friend I ever made, and I screwed up!"
"Where can I find him?"
Eric uncovers his face. "Why? What are you planning to do?"
"I'm just going to talk to him. If anyone knows how Jake feels, it's me. As you know, I went through something similar with Brian years ago. I know just what to say to persuade him differently."
"Alright. I trust you. I never thought I'd say that."
Roman gasps. "Hey!"
"C'mon, Roman. You know we didn't have the best relationship starting out!" Eric said in defense.
"Touché."
~The Fast & Furious Family Chronicle~
Monday February 16th, 2016
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
9 a.m.
Third Person POV
Letty was in the comfort of her mother's house the following day. And even though she landed last night, the exhaustion of traveling put Letty fast asleep upon arrival, delaying the mother-daughter talk until now.
"Here's your tea, darling." Mama Ortiz said.
Letty graciously accepts the cup of warm liquid. "Thank you, mama."
"Anytime, Mija. So, what brings you to Mexico? You sounded worried on the phone."
Letty lets out a stressful sigh. "I'm pregnant."
Mama Ortiz squeals in excitement. "Leticia, this is wonderful news! I'm going to be an abuela!"
"Technically, you already are…."
"What?"
Letty pulls out her phone and shows her mom the lock screen photo of her, Dom, and Brian Marcos. "This is Brian."
"He's so adorable. Now I'll have two grandkids! But what's got you so worried?"
"I'm just scared," Letty admitted.
Mama Oritz gives her daughter a confused look. "What of?"
"Making mistakes, wondering if I will be a good mother. I don't have a normal life. But settling down with a family? I never thought I'd get to that point."
"You have to remember that normal means something different to everyone."
Letty takes a sip of her tea. "I know. But what if family life tears Dom and me apart?"
Mama Ortiz sets down her cup and fixes her glance on her daughter. "Well, tell me this, Do you feel as if your marriage is falling apart now with one child?"
"Well, no."
"Then there's no need to fret about that. Letty, motherhood is one of the most rewarding things in the world. And while I don't always approve of your "Fast & Furious" lifestyle, I'm certain you and Dom can make anything work. You're loving, hardworking, and trustworthy. Also, don't forget you're not alone. I'm only a plane ride away."
Letty gives her mother a grateful smile. "You're right-Thank you, mama. I'm sorry for not reaching out more. I promise to keep in contact this time, even with my fast and furious life. Now that would make for a good movie."
The two women share a hearty laugh. Things are going to be just fine.
~The Fast & Furious Family Chronicle~
Monday February 16th, 2016
Cold-Stone Creamery
Los Angeles CA
4 p.m.
Darryl's POV
After school, Ryan and I went to Cold Stone for our Ice-Cream date. Well, maybe I shouldn't say date. This was more of a hangout session. Besides, I don't even know if Ryan is attracted to guys. Hell, even I'm still confused about my sexuality. So, for now, I should focus on enjoying my classmates' company.
"Thanks again for buying me, Ice-Cream. You didn't have to!" I said.
Ryan flashes his signature smile, and it makes my heart flutter.
"I know. But it's my fault you couldn't enjoy that last slice of Pizza. It's the least I could do. And now we can become better acquainted."
I ate a spoonful of my birthday cake remix. "This is true."
Ryan drums his fingers on the table, contemplating his following words, then clears his throat and says, "So tell me, Are you and Alyssa an item?"
I choke on my saliva. I wasn't expecting a question of that nature. "Um-"
"You don't have to answer. I was curious since you two spend a lot of time together."
"It's okay. When I first met Alyssa, I was 14. I did have a crush on her. But, as time passed, She became more of a sister to me. We tried going on a date, but it failed." I explained
Ryan nods as he consumes some of his Somewhere Over The Rain Dough. "Ah, I see. That's too bad. She's missing out on such a spectacular guy. What's not to love? Beauty and smarts!"
My cheeks become flustered at his compliment. "Aw, that's sweet of you!"
"Oh, I get it because we're eating Ice-Cream. We got to add humor to the list!"
"What about you? Are you with anyone?" I asked.
"Not currently. I've had crushes on guys, but it didn't go any further than that."
Ryan averts his gaze. "I hope talking about liking guys doesn't make you uncomfortable?"
"NoT At ALl!"I covered my mouth in embarrassment. Of all times for my voice to crack, it had to be now. "SoRry, My VOiCe Is CrAcKiNg."
"No worries, man. Just a part of puberty."
Ryan and I then participated in various conversations—topics ranging from school, sports, video games, and family. Today I discovered that Ryan is the middle child of four. He enjoys math and is currently taking AP Stats. He enjoys video games and plays on the boy's volleyball team.
And before we knew it, two and a half hours had flown by instantly. Not that I'm complaining.
"This has been fun! Too bad our outing is coming to a close." Ryan expressed.
That's when it hit me. I was back to having the house to myself. "You know-Brian and Mia went back to Phoenix last night. Do you wanna come over and play video games?"
"It's a date."
~The Fast & Furious Family Chronicle~
Wednesday, February 18th, 2016
Lazy T Motel
6:00 p.m.
Roman's POV
Jake was stationed at a Lazy T Motel on the outskirts of L.A. I'm hopeful this conversation will result in a win, for Little Nobody's sake.
I knocked on Room 317's door before getting an answer.
"Can I help you?" He asked impatiently.
"Yes, hi, I'm here on behalf of Little No-, I mean Eric Reinser."
Jake scoffs in response. "Not interested!"
As he proceeds to slam the door, I catch it before it can close. "Wait, this is important."
"You're not gonna leave until we talk, are you?" Jake asked as he pinched the bridge of his nose.
"Yep. You're stuck with me."
He moves to the side to let me in. "Smart man," I commented.
Jake closes the door before continuing. "So Rickster has people vouching for him? Man, how the times have changed."
I snorted. "Rickster?! I'm going to tease him later. But for the reason I'm here, Eric told me what happened between you two, and I know how you feel?"
"How can you possibly know how I feel?"
"My best friend Brian and I had a falling out in the early 2000s. He became a cop, and it felt like a stab to the chest, given our previous lifestyles. But when I got arrested, I thought Brian would have at least tried to get me out and prove what I thought about the police to be wrong. And after months of waiting, I felt betrayed by someone I considered my best friend. Come to find out that he had no clue of my arrest, and despite my standoffish and rude behavior, Brian was still willing to help us reclaim our freedom, even if it meant getting our hands dirty with taking down a drug overlord. So basically, I'm saying you should give Eric a second chance. The guy means well, and he's riddled with guilt over what happened. He even tried to get you out countless times over the years. So allow him to make things right."
"But it still hurts," Jake whispered in a strained voice.
I nod. "I know. It'll take time for the pain to fade. For now, you got to take that leap of faith."
"I'll think about it."
I sighed in relief. "That's all I'm asking."
~The Fast & Furious Family Chronicle~
Thursday, February 19th, 2016
Toretto Household
1 p.m.
Third Person POV
Letty returned to L.A during the late morning hours on Thursday. She ended up staying a few extra days with her mother, due to the uncertainty of when they'd see each other again.
Upon returning home, Letty finally broke the news to Dom.
"Hey, babe?" She prompted
"Yes, my love?" Dom replied.
"There's something I need to tell you. You should probably sit down for this."
Dom raised a brow as he sat beside his wife on the couch. "Alright? Should I be scared?"
"I hope not-" With a shaky breath, Letty blurted out, "I'm pregnant!"
The room goes quiet. Dom's face becomes unreadable.
"Dom?" Letty said
"Oh, my goodness, Letty, this is fantastic news!" Dom expressed with a cheerful grin.
"It is?"
"Of course! I know we've not discussed family life in a while. However, I think we're ready to handle it. I mean, we're already parents to Brian."
Letty sighs in relief. "That's true. I guess I was afraid. Afraid I wasn't going to be a good mom. Usually, I don't get anxiety like this. But after hearing your reassurance, I feel much better."
"And with that in mind, I think there's one thing we need to do," Dom said
"What's that?"
"We officially retire to focus on our growing family."
Letty gave Dom a look of uncertainty. However, deep down, she knew it was the only way. They couldn't keep living a "Fast and Furious" life. "You're right. We have to retire.
The couple shared a hug. Cheers to new beginnings.