Maya and Josh meet about an hour after Maya leaves Josh's apartment so she can shower and change clothes at her apartment. Josh and Mati do the same. For their first "date," along with Mati, they decide to go to the park near Maya's apartment where her and Josh reconnected and where she met Mati for the first time. After walking around the park for a while together, Mati sees the ducks in the park and asks her dad if she can feed them. Josh says yes, knowing it's one of Mati's favorite things to do and one of his, and Maya's, favorite things they like to watch her doing. Josh gives her some money and Mati runs off to buy some duck feed for her favorite ducks. Maya and Josh find the bench which he was sitting on when he and Maya met for the first time after she returned to New York. "I think the fact no one is sitting here right now is an omen, a good omen," Josh remarks. "I agree," Maya answers with a big smile as the two sit down to watch Mati play with her ducks. This time though, they sit close to one another and hold hands. At one point Maya remarks casually: "I've always enjoyed holding hands with you." Josh looks down at her and smiles. "So have I," he tells her. After looking into each other's eyes for a moment, Josh leans down and kisses Maya. When they separate, they look at each other for a moment, then Maya lays her head on Josh's shoulder as they continue to watch Mati.
A little later, Maya sighs and shivers a little. "Everything okay?" Josh asks. Without looking at him, Maya says: "Yeah, everything's fine. I was just thinking. I feel like a schoolgirl on her first date; or like I felt on my first date with you." Josh chuckles. "Well," he begins, "this is sort of like a first date for us I guess. Like you said earlier, we are two different people now." Maya thinks about this for a minute, then smiles. "Yeah, I guess it is," she replies, then continues. "When you said "first date," my first thought was: 'except we know each other pretty well this time.' But then I remembered that we knew each other pretty well on our first date back then too." This gets a smile from Josh. "Yeah, I guess we did," Josh answers; then kisses Maya once again.
As they sit on the bench together, enjoying being with each other again, old memories return to both of them. Memories of when they dated before and how happy they were then and the hope they can have that same kind of happiness again. Those memories cause them sit closer to one another. They both remember how happy they were then and how happy they are becoming again. They remember how affectionate they used to be with each other. They begin snuggling with each other and share more kisses; kisses they've both missed. After a while, Mati happens to notice this. "Ewwww," she proclaims with somewhat faked disgust. "I told you they'd be more of this," Maya reminds her. This causes Mati to roll her eyes at them, but then laugh as well.
After a while, Maya looks around while laying her head on Josh's shoulder, she notices several people taking pictures of them. "Oh boy," she exclaims with a sigh. "What?" Josh asks. "We're having our picture taken a lot," she answers. "I hadn't thought about that. I'm sort of a semi-celebrity now so a lot of people are curious about my personal life. We'll probably be all over social media soon and the gossip rags as well. That's a drawback about being in a relationship with me now….less privacy." She looks at Josh with a sad smile and says: "Sorry about that." He just smiles and kisses her again. "I don't care about them or what's on social media about us. We'll protect Mati from all the prying, but as for me, I don't care. Let them think what they want to think. They don't know anything about us or our history or our relationship. But what I do care about, is you and our relationship; and if that means being all over social media, then it's well worth it." She smiles at Josh, loving everything he's just said. Then she kisses him again. "Your daughter's pretty smart," she says. "I guess she knew what she was doing when she made you my boyfriend." This causes Josh to laugh out loud. "Yeah, I guess she did," he answers. They hold each other and forget about the world around them and just enjoy each other's company.
After about an hour, Mati finally gets tired of playing with the ducks, and joins Joah and Maya on the bench. They let the little girl rest for a little while as they pass the time in easy, natural conversation between the three of them. At one point Mati says, to no one in particular: "I think I could eat something." Josh and Maya see her smile as she's saying this. "Something tells me that my daughter wants a hotdog from our favorite vender," Josh says with a grin. Before Mati can say anything, Maya says: "I could go for a hotdog myself. In fact, I haven't had one since I was with you when we first met." Mati gives Maya an astonished look and exclaims: "well, that settles it. We need to get Maya a hotdog!" This causes the two adults to laugh and Josh says: "let's go get some then." As she did before, Mati grabs both their hands and leads them toward Mr. Morrison's hotdog cart. And just as before, when they near his cart, Mati let's go of their hands and runs ahead of them. Josh and Maya watch as he sings and Mati dances. When they finish, he begins to make Mati's hotdog. As Josh and Maya approach, Mr. Morrison notices two things. This is the first time Maya has been to see him since her first time with Josh and Mati. And second, he notices the two adults are holding hands, which they weren't before. This makes him smile. When he finishes Mati's hotdog, he asks: "the regular for you Josh and Maya?" They both say yes and he begins making their hotdogs. When he finishes those, he hands them to Josh and Maya along with a bottle of water for each. Josh insists on paying for it all, and Maya relents. When he sees the pouty look on her face, he leans over to her and says: "come on Maya, you know I always pay when we're on a date." The causes the beautiful blond to smile broadly. "This has become so natural," Maya begins, "that I forgot we were actually on a date. Thanks Josh." With that, she stands on her tiptoes and gives him a short but affectionate kiss. "Ewww," Mati exclaims as she sets down at a nearby table, "stop with the kissy-face stuff and eat your hotdogs!" This, of course, gets a laugh from Josh and Maya as they sit down with her. "I told you there'd be some of that," Maya reminds her. All this gets from Mati is a scrunched-up nose expression. The three begin to happily eat their hotdogs after that.
As they eat, they talk and laugh as they always do when they're together. Neither Josh nor Maya can remember the last time they felt this happy and at ease. After they finish, Josh collects their trash and takes it to a nearby garbage can to dispose of it. He leaves Mati and Maya at the table as they begin to talk about art and what they might sketch together next. The trash can is close to the hotdog stand and after throwing their trash away, Mr. Morrison motions for Josh to come over to his stand. When he does, the older man smiles at Josh, and says: "Things seem a little different between you and Maya since the last time I saw you together. It was obvious then that you two shared an affection for one other, but I can sense a change. The way you look at each other is different and you're holding hands." Josh can't help but smile a slightly embarrassed smile. "Things are different between us now Mr. Morrison," Josh tells him. "Maya and I have actually known each other since we were children. Her best friend is my niece and we've always liked each other." The jovial hotdog vender smiles upon hearing this. "When we were younger, before Maya left to study art in Europe, we dated the whole time she was in college. That was a very special time for both of us. We've just rekindled our old romance. I didn't think it would be possible to feel those feelings again, by Maya is an incredible woman and I finally realized that it was okay to feel that way about someone again." Mr. Morrison is pleased to hear this. He's grown quite fond of the tall, soft-spoken, young man and his daughter. And it's obvious that Josh is happier now that he's ever been before, since he first met him. He puts a fatherly hand gently on Josh's shoulder, and softly says: "I'm happy for you Josh, and for Mati as well. And I can tell that's Maya's equally happy to be with you too. I wish you both much happiness." Josh smiles. "Thank you Mr. Morrison. Maya came back into my life, just when I, and Mati, needed her the most." He makes his way back to the table where Mati and Maya are still siting. "What did Mr. Morrison want?" Maya asks out of curiosity. "He could tell something was different between us now, and he asked about it," Josh answers. Maya nods, and with a slight smile just replies: "oh." But Mati also has something to ask about this. "So, he could see you were boyfriend and girlfriend now?" After her dad tells her he could, Mati says: "Well, it's obvious with all the kissing you two do." The adults can tell that Mati was only about half serious, and was teasing them with the other half. "Oh, it is that obvious?" Maya asks jokingly. "I don't think it is," Josh adds, getting in on the joke. "Now this is obvious," he says as he leans over Mati and gives Maya a little kiss. "And like this," Maya says, kissing Josh back, continuing the teasing of Mati. Then Josh and Maya share several more quick, but very affectionate kisses. "Ewww," Mati says. "You two are doing that just to annoy me!" Josh and Maya laugh, then Maya looks down at the little girl, smiles and says: "You know, your dad isn't the only one I like to kiss." Then Maya leans down and begins kissing Mati on her cheeks, temples, and forehead, which makes her start laughing.
The next couple of hours are spent walking around the little park while Maya and Mati pick out things they want to sketch together. Maya continues giving Mati tips and showing her different things she thinks will help the little girl improve her drawing. At one point Maya realizes that she has been neglecting Josh as she concentrates helping his daughter. "Josh, I'm so sorry," she exclaims. "This is supposed to be our first date and I'm paying more attention to Mati than you." Josh can see she's a little upset with herself by this, but she needn't be. "It's fine Maya," he tells her. "We're supposed to be having fun on our date. I am, and I believe you are too." Maya can only smile at his response. "I am Josh. I'm having a really good time." Josh smiles a little mischievous smile and tells her: "I'm happy and will stay happy as long as I can get a kiss every so often." Maya's smile spreads across her face. "I think that can be arranged," she answers and kisses him with as much passion as she dares in public. They move on to another small park that has a playground. Mati asks if she can go play on the swing set. Josh tells her it's okay, but not to go wondering off where he and Maya can't see her. They find a bench to sit on so they can watch Mati. The bench hadn't even gotten warm before she puts her arms around Josh's neck and kisses him several times. Josh, in turn, pulls her tight to him and kisses her back. After several minutes of this and several giggles from passers-by, mostly children, they settle into a quiet cuddle while holding hands. Maya sighs, leans her head on Josh's shoulder, and observes: "When I went to bed last night, this was the last thing I expected to be doing today, making out with my old boyfriend." This causes Josh to laugh. "I believe I can understand where you're coming from," he says with a chuckle. A comfortable silence falls between them. As much as they enjoy talking to each other, just sitting together and not saying anything, comes natural to them as well.
Later, Josh asks: "How do you think we should break the news to our families that we're dating again?" Maya has to laugh. "Gosh Josh, you make it sound like we'll be bringing bad news or something." Josh's eyes widen as he realizes how that sounded. "I didn't mean for it to sound like that. I was just thinking that it's probably going to come as a surprise to them, since we've never even discussed the possibility of us dating again." Maya sits up and looks at Josh. "Well," she begins, "that's not exactly true, as least not when it comes to me." Josh looks at her in confusion, so she explains. "Riley and your mom both saw that my old feelings for you had returned. And I told my parents and Cory and Topanga." This surprises Josh and he asks why she told her parents and his brother and sister-in-law. Maya is a little embarrassed to tell him, but knows she needs to. "When I first realized that my feelings for you had returned, I felt like a terrible person. I felt bad because instead of helping you heal like I thought I should, there I was wanting to kiss you. I felt so bad about it that I thought I needed psychological help. But I decided to talk to them first to see what they thought about me." Josh is shocked to hear this from her. "Maya, that was crazy to think that. You've helped me more than I imagined anyone ever could. I hope they straightened you out about that." She smiles warmly when Josh tells her that. "They did," she answers. "Anyway," she continues, "that's how they found out about my feelings for you. However, they'll probably still be surprised. I told them that you weren't interested in me like that anymore." Josh suddenly takes Maya in his arms and tells her: "Maya, I'm so sorry. I didn't realize what I put you through. You've been nothing but good for me since you've been back. And the last thing I'd ever want to do is hurt you in any way." Maya, touched by Josh's words, stifles a sob. "It's okay Josh," she says. "I hid my sadness from you as best I could, because I didn't want to hurt you as well. You didn't do anything wrong. It just happened." Seeing the pained look still on his face, she continues. "Besides," she begins with smile, "the kisses you've been giving me today have washed all that sadness away." This changes Josh's mood and a bright smile appears on his face. "Well I guess I'd better keep you happy them," he says as he kisses Maya again.
After a few moments, Maya says: "As for telling everyone about us, why don't we start with Riley and Farkle? We could go over and see them today, Mati can play with the twins, and we can tell them then. I know Riley will be over-the-top happy for us and Farkle will just be regular happy for us." This gets a chuckle from Josh who tells her that sounds like a good idea. Maya texts Riley to see if they can come over with Mati and of course Riley is delighted. When Mati comes back to sit with them after playing in the playground, they tell her they're going to go visit Riley, Farkle, and the twins, which excites the little girl.
Later, they're buzzed into the private entrance of the Minkus's penthouse apartment and take the private elevator to the top floor. Riley and Farkle are waiting for them at the elevator doors. Mati immediately asks where the twins are, but before anyone can answer, they here: "We're in our room Mati, come play with us!" With that, she runs out of sight. The four adults just laugh and shake their heads, knowing the three girls love playing with each other. "Let's go into the den and relax," Riley suggests. Once there, she asks her guests and her husband if they'd like something to drink, which she gets for all of them. Maya and Josh have been holding hands the whole time they've been at the apartment and sitting much closer to each other than they normally do when they're around others. They both wonder if Riley or Farkle have noticed. When Riley brings them their refreshments, she does notice them holding hands and pretty much cuddling together, reminding her of how they were when they were dating while Maya was in college. She's excited, but hesitant to say anything, remembering that her husband has warned her not to interfere with their relationship and let whatever happens, happen naturally. She glances at Farkle, who has also noticed the closeness of the two and has concluded that it could only be because of one thing. He smiles at Riley and nods this head slightly, indicating to Riley that he thinks is okay to say something to them.
"Are you two an item now?" She asks hesitantly. Maya smiles at her best friend and answers: "You could say that." To prove her point, she kisses Josh right in front of her and Riley sees that her uncle enjoys it. Suddenly, Riley let's out a scream: "YAAAAA!" And launches herself at her best friend and uncle, hugging both their necks tightly as the couple sit on the couch. When she finally releases them, she's still excited and has questions. "How long? What changed? Are you sure?" Josh and Maya wait for Riley to calm down a bit before talking. "We're actually on our first date right now," Maya explains, "we had a long talk about it this morning." Josh continues: "My old feelings for Maya had returned. They probably started to return on the first day we ran into each other at that park." Riley smiles. "I just knew you two had feelings for each other again," she says. "What changed?" Josh smiles at his inquisitive niece and continues. "I had feelings for Maya, but I didn't act on them. I felt if I did, it would tarnish Ann's memory or it'd be like cheating on her." Riley is astonished at first about this revelation, but the more she thinks about it, the more she understands why Josh would think that. Her uncle is loyal to a fault sometimes. "Uncle Josh, "she begins, "you know that's not true don't you? Ann would never have thought that. She would want you to be happy. And I know no one else in our family would think that either." Josh nods his head. "I know," he says, "Ann told me that." Riley's eyes grow big at that statement. Josh gives her a knowing smile and explains. "She appeared to me this morning in my room, in the same way Shawn's dad did with him when he needed advice." Maya adds: "And she came to me in a dream and told me that Josh and I had her blessing." Maya's eyes get a little misty as she remembers that encounter. "You got to talk to her?" Riley asks. "I did," Maya answers, "but only for a few minutes. I wish it had been longer." Riley gives her a knowing smile. "You two would have been friends," Riley tells her best friend. Maya smiles, "the best of friends," she answers. The four share a moment of comfortable silence before Riley says: "I think everyone saw that you two wanted to be together ever since Maya got home. This news is going to make a lot of people happy."
"And speaking of other people," Farkle says, "who have you told, besides us?"
"No one," Josh answers. "Like Maya said, this is our first date and it started this morning after breakfast. We've spent the day together with Mati, just enjoying each other's company while watching her play."
"I've been thinking though," Maya begins, "mom and dad have been wanting me to have dinner with them, so why don't we do that soon, Josh? I'll ask them to invite Cory and Topanga and that you and Mati will be coming with me." Josh nods and says: "That's a good idea."
"Oh, like that won't be suspicious at all," Farkle chimes in with a laugh. This causes the other three adults to laugh. "Well, if they do get suspicious," Riley begins, "at least they'll be suspicious of good news." The others smile and agree.
Suddenly, the room is invaded be three young girls, led by Mati. "Penny and Liz wanted to come see Maya and dad," she declares. Then she looks at Josh and asks: "Have you told them you're boyfriend and girlfriend yet?" This gets the twins attention. "Aunt Maya and Uncle Josh are boyfriend and girlfriend now?" Penny asks. Before any of the adults can answer, Mati answers her question. "Yes they are. They've been holding hands all day and doing all that kissy-face stuff." This gets a laugh from Riley and Farkle. "Ewwww," the twins moan is disgust. "Now girls," Riley warns her daughters, "Aunt Maya and Uncle Josh make each other happy as boyfriend and girlfriend. So, shouldn't we be happy for them?" The twins look at each other and smile, then Penny says: Yes, we should be happy for them, and we are. But them kissing each other just seems weird. It's even weird when mommy and daddy do it." This gets a chuckle from the adults. "Well, good luck getting them to stop," Mati says, "they've been doing it all day." The girls wrinkle their noses. Maya can't risk telling them, "like I told Mati earlier, Liz and Penny, you're probably going to see a lot of it. It's fun kissing your Uncle Josh." To emphasize her point, she kisses Josh and holds it for a few seconds. "It still seems weird," Liz begins, "but we love you both and if it makes you happy, then I guess we can get used to it." Josh and Maya smile, give each of the twins a hug, and thank them for understanding. Josh looks down at the three bright-eyes girls, smiles and tells them: "You know girls, they'll come a time when you'll enjoy kissing like Maya & I and your mom & dad do." This gets wrinkled-nose stares from all three girls, not buying what Josh just told them. "Not likely dad," Mati tells them, which bring more knowing grins for the adults. Later the girls beg Maya and Josh to come play with them in their room, which they do happily. Later, as the two adults and three children play together, Riley and Farkle stand in the doorway of the room and watch them. "I knew Josh would be good with our kids, but Maya surprises me," Farkle says. "I know," Riley says, "mom says it just comes natural for her." Farkle thinks about that, then nods his head in understanding. "The twins called them Uncle Josh and Aunt Maya," Riley observers. "Kinda sounds right doesn't it?" Farkle immediately looks and her and warns: "Riley." She smiles at him and says: "I know, I know. I won't say anything to them or anyone else about that, she hesitates with a smile, then says: "But a girl can hope, can't she?" Farkle smiles and kisses her gently. "Yes," he responds, "we all can hope."
A few days later Maya, Josh, and Mati make their way over to Maya's parents' apartment. Cory and Topanga are also there along with Maya's two brothers. Shawn lets them in and Mati rushes in and says is a loud voice: "Family." Maya notices everyone takes the announcement in stride and all answer in unison: "Mati." Maya can't help but smile. She turns to Josh and asks: "She got that from you, didn't she?" She remembers that was the way Josh always entered the Matthews apartment. "You might say that," he answers. Maya's smile grows. Then she stands on her toes and kisses him. No one notices the kiss, except Topanga and Katy, who just smile at each other. They both had surmised that the couple may be going to tell them tonight at dinner they are dating now.
They all make small talk while dinner is being prepared and then sit down to eat. During dinner, Maya and Josh sit next to each other. Mati wanted to sit between Chet and Alan, which the boys didn't mind. They treat Mati like a little sister now, which everyone loved, especially Josh. As dinner goes on, Shawn and Cory begin to notice how close and "chummy" Josh and Maya seem to be with each other, but just pass if off as them being close friends.
After everything is cleaned up after dinner, they all retire to the living room to enjoy the company of family and friends. After a few minutes of conversation, Katy asks: "Maya, did you have something you wanted to tell us?" Maya, surprised at her mother's question says: "What do you mean?" Katy rolls her eyes. "Oh come on Baby Girl, and you're still my Baby Girl, your dad and I have been trying to get you over here for dinner for weeks and when you finally agree to come, you also want Cory and Topanga to be here as well as Josh and Mati. Now, we didn't mind any of that. We love all the Matthews, but that still seemed unusual to us and with the way you've been acting around each other tonight, well, it seemed obvious to us what you and Josh wanted to tell us." Cory and Shawn look at their wives, then at Josh and Maya, and finally look at each other in bewilderment. "I dunno," is all Cory can say to Shawn. "Shawn Hunter," Katy exclaims, "do you mean to tell me you didn't see them kissing when they got here?" Cory suddenly screeches out: "Kissing, you two were kissing?" Topanga just rolls her eyes. "Men never notice anything," she says, which gets a laugh from Katy. Mati pipes in now: "Dad and Maya are boyfriend and girlfriend now. Any while it may seem weird at first, it really makes both of them happy." Cory and Shawn just stare at each other in disbelief for a few seconds, but them smiles break out on their faces. Finally Cory looks at the couple, smiles at them, and says: "Well, it's about time you two." Shawn responds with: "Yeah, about time." Maya looks at her dad and asks: "So you're okay with us dating then?" Then she looks around the room and asks: "You all are?" Topanga answers her: "Of course we are honey. If fact, we were all hoping this would happen, but we didn't say anything. It was your decision to make." Shawn asks: "What changed? You never indicated, in any way, that you might date again." Maya looks to Josh to answer her dad. "About two weeks ago, Maya and I had a revelation about our relationship. We had a good conversation about it and decided it was okay to act on our feelings for each other. And here we are." Maya can see confusion on everyone's faces, and says: "We'll go into the details some other time, but think of Chet Hunter advising dad after he'd died." This gets astonished looks from the four adults, but they decided to leave it at that for now.
"Who else knows?" Topanga asks. "Just Riley, Farkle and the twins," Josh answers. "We asked them not to tell anyone so we could do it in person." Cory asks: "So mom and dad don't know?" Josh shakes his head and says: "No, not yet. We're planning on going to see them in a couple of days and tell them." This makes Cory happy. "Good," he replies, "this will make them very happy, especially mom. She's told me several times that she thinks you two should be together; that you belong together." That little bit of information makes Josh and Maya happy.
The rest of the evening was spent catching up with what everyone had been doing since they last saw each other. As the evening draws to an end, Josh says: "We'd better go, it's already pass Mati's bedtime." Maya and Josh thank them for a great dinner and evening. Goodbye hugs are exchanged as they get ready to leave. As Katy hugs her daughter, she says to her: "I happy for you Maya, and Josh too. You two are really good for each other." Maya is almost moved to tears. "Thanks mom," is all she can say. She says the same thing to Josh, and the three other older adults echo her sentiments.
Later, as Josh and Maya take a taxi to Josh's apartment, Mati is sitting between them in the back seat, half asleep. Maya looks at Josh and tells him: "This evening has been pretty much perfect." He smiles and agrees with her, then leans over Mati and kisses this amazing woman who is once again in his life.
Two days later, Josh and Maya, along with Mati, drive to the senior Matthews' house in Philadelphia. Alan and Amy are having a discussion before Josh and Mati arrive. "So he didn't say who he was bringing with him and Mati?" Alan asks Amy. "No, he didn't," Amy replies, "he just said he had someone he wants us to meet and she's very important." Alan's eyes grow wide. "She," he repeats. "He didn't say who this she was?" Amy shakes her head. "No, he just said he wanted us to meet her." Alan thinks for a minute, then asks: "Do you think it's a new girlfriend?" Amy scowls. "I hope not." This shocks Alan. "Why wouldn't want Josh to have a girlfriend? The last one he had turned out to be pretty special." Amy nods. "Yes, I know. But I want Maya to be his girlfriend if he ever has another one." Alan smiles now and pulls his wife in for a hug. "Honey," he begins, "we've gone over this. We shouldn't try to push them together. They have to decide if they want to be together as something other than friends." Amy sighs as they release from their hug. "I just can't imagine anyone in the world who could be better for him, and for Mati, than Maya. And from the times I've seen them together since she's been back, the way they look at each other, I just knew they'd get back together romantically at some point. But maybe I misread them both." Alan is sympathetic. "Yeah, me too," he says. "But it's been ten years since the last time they dated. And they've both been through a lot since then. They've changed. Maybe friends is all they can or want to be now." Amy nods, knowing what Alan says makes since. Alan smiles and says: "One thing we all know, friends or not, Maya loves Josh, and Mati, and has been good for them both." He pauses and them chuckles a little. "Who knows? She may have been the one that introduced him to this girl." Amy just looks at Alan and gives him a disapproving look.
About an hour later, there's a knock on the Matthews' door. When they open it, they are immediately set upon by an energetic little girl. "Grandma, grandpa, I'm so happy to see you." Mati immediately hugs her grandparents, as she always does. "Ohhhh, we're so happy to see you too sweetheart," Amy answers as they hug her back. They go on to welcome Josh with hugs as well. Then Amy notices that there's no one else with them. "I thought you were bringing someone for us to meet Josh." Josh smiles and says: "Oh, I did. She's outside on her phone. She got an important call just as we pulled into the driveway." When he sees an annoyed look on his mother's face, he continues. "She stays busy ma. She's kinda important." When his parents hear this, they give Josh questioning looks. "She definitely wanted to come though" he continues, "so she made sure to put plenty of time aside to come with me." This really didn't seem to satisfy Amy though. "You're really going to like her grandma, and you too grandpa," Mati says before her grandparents can speak. Her grandparents see a huge grin on Mati's face, which they don't know what to think of. "Now Mati," Josh warns, "I said to let me introduce her to grandma and grandpa." Before anyone could say anything, there's a knock on the door. "That'll be her," Josh says. "I guess she took care of whatever that call was about." Josh opens the door and Amy and Alan see a big smile form on his face as he reaches out for her hand and says: "come in." As he leads her into the living room, Josh announces: ma, dad, I'd like you to meet my girlfriend….Maya." Maya steps out from behind Josh, still holding his hand, and sheepishly smiles at Josh's parents, two of her most favorite people in the world. Amy and Alan's eyes nearly pop out of their heads. "Surprise," Maya says, still smiling but just not as bright, not knowing how her boyfriend's parents will react to her, but hoping it'll be positive. She needn't have worried. Amy is the first to react. "Maya," she says with the warmest smile Maya has ever seen from her. She rushes over to Maya and pulls her into her arms. "This makes me so happy Maya. You and my baby belong together. I don't know how you did, but I'm glad you figured it out." Alan, standing next to Amy, says: "I couldn't agree more." Then he gives Maya a warm hug.
"Come in, come in," Amy implores, "and tell us how this all came about." They all take seats in the living room where Josh and Maya explain how they finally decided they needed to act on their feelings for one another. They purposely leave out the part about Ann visiting each of them and giving them her blessing to date. They weren't sure how Mati would react to that at her young age. Later, while Maya was playing with Mati, Josh filled in the rest of the story for his parents, focusing on the reasons her hadn't acted on his feelings for Maya. His parents reiterated what everyone else had, that by dating Maya in no way tarnished the memory of Ann. This made Josh happy that his parents believed it as well.
They spent the rest of the day, and night, at Josh's parents' house and left early afternoon of the next day, after Josh and Mati visit Ann's grave, like they always do when they come to Philadelphia. Before they left, Amy and Alan took the time, individually, to sit and talk with Maya and express to her how happy this made them, not only for Josh, but for her as well. "Your happiness is just as important to Alan and me as Josh's," Amy told her. That brought Maya to tears and she hugged Amy tight for telling her that. As they were saying their goodbyes before Josh and Maya left, Alan had something to say to his youngest son. "Josh," he began, "you've turned into a wonderful man that your mom and I are very proud of. And if you're smart, and I know you are, you'll never let Maya go. Ever since you two dated in college, Amy and I realized what a special woman she is. And we are both overjoyed that she's back in your life." Maya is overcome with emotion again and can only say: "thank you grandpa Matthews." He hugs the beautiful young woman that he and Amy love so much and tells her: "Alan, you should call me Alan now, honey." This surprises Maya. Then Amy says: "And you should start calling me Amy." Maya nods with a somewhat embarrassed, but grateful smile. As they are pulling out of the driveway, headed back to New York, Mati says: "I told you grandma and grandpa really liked you Maya." Maya could only manage a bright smile at the little girl as she tried to hold her tears of happiness back.
Over the next several days Maya and Josh's relationship became known to all their friends. They, along with Riley and Farkle, even did a video conference with Lucas, Autry, Zay, and Isadora, in Texas, to tell them the good news. Lucas gave Josh a hard time, telling him: "Well it's about time Josh. Only a blind man could miss the goo-goo eyes Maya was giving you." This got a huge laugh from everyone, except Maya. She took exception to Lucas' statement. "How do you know I was making goo-goo eyes at him Huckleberry; you've haven't seen us together since I've been back." He replied instantly: "I didn't have to. I remember you looking all goofy when you two dated while you were in college." Before Maya could say anything, Farkle says: "He's right Maya; we all saw it." This got even more laughter from the group. Maya finally gave up and just said: "Shut up!" But she couldn't hide the big smile on her face. When the laughter finally died down, Lucas, with a sincerity they all recognize, and with a soft smile, tells Maya: "It's good to see you so happy Maya." This was echoed from everyone else in the group. Autry, who didn't know about Josh, other than Riley mentioning she had an uncle who was only three years older than her, didn't get much more info from Lucas after the video conference. So she called Maya the next day to get their story. Maya, who had grown quite fond of Autry, told her about her and Josh, beginning with when they first met as children, till when she left for London, and ended with their reuniting in New York.
The local press in New York also found out about the famous artist's new love interest, as the local news rags put it. Several pictures of them together, including many of them kissing, had showed up on social media. There was also speculation that the little girl occasionally seen with them, was her "love child" with this man. Maya finally had enough of this speculation about her and Josh, and she certainly didn't want Mati drug into it, so she decided to put an end to it. She called a small press conference and explained her and Josh's relationship. She also explained who Mati was and asked them to leave her out of any stories they'd write about them. They all complied with her request, mostly because Maya had always made herself available to them, which they appreciated, but also partially because some of them had run afoul of Maya's temper when they got too personal with her.
Over the next several weeks, Maya and Josh saw quite a bit of each other as they became reacquainted as a couple. She still came to Josh's apartment once a week to work with Mati on her art, which they both enjoyed immensely. And, as she'd promised Mati, the three of them still did things together as well as her and Mati having a girls' day together. But they also spent time together just the two of them. There were quite dinners together, movie nights with just the two of them, walks in the park, and attending art shows together, both those of Maya's, as well as other art shows that Maya wanted to go to. And they grew closer. Josh even got used to being "the love interest of the famous artist," as he was being referred to in the press. Maya hated that. She wanted everyone to know that Josh was so much more than that. But he told her he didn't mind. That was her public life, which he blended into. He was much more interested in their private life together, where he and Maya shared a mutual respect and affection for each other.
On one of their dates, they decided to spend the weekend together. They asked Riley if she'd keep Mati for the weekend, which she happily agreed to do. As her and Josh were leaving Riley's apartment, she told Maya to have fun, and then gave her best friend a big smile and an understanding wink, which caused the beautiful blonde to blush.
They spent all day Saturday together, meeting for breakfast and then exploring the city, not planning anything in particular, and just doing things as they thought of them. They ended up having dinner together at a small café near Central Park. After dinner, they returned to Josh's apartment for a relaxing evening watching movies, at least that's what Josh thought was going to happen. He had just closed and locked the door behind him and was turning around to ask Maya what movie she'd like to see, when he suddenly found himself engulfed by arms and legs, a mess of beautiful blond hair all around his face, and soft lips pressed against his. Her tongue pressed against his teeth demanding entry, which he happily complied with. As Maya deepened their kiss, Josh was reminded of Maya's passion. She was passionate about everything she did. She was passionate about her art of course, but she was also passionate about her family and friends, passionate about the charities she championed, passionate about encouraging children pursue and enjoy the arts, and, as Josh was remembering now, passionate, very passionate, about her love making. They hadn't even discussed being intimate with one another since they'd started dating, but there was no mistaking about what his amazing girlfriend's intensions were tonight. She released her legs from around him and began pulling him down the hallway to his bedroom, while never stopping kissing him. As they entered his bedroom, she began tugging at his belt and unzipping his pants with urgency. He saw this and unbuttoned his shirt and threw it on the floor. When he began to help her with his pants, she stopped and with one quick motion, pulled her top off and threw it on the floor, quickly followed by her bra. The two sat on the bed and started removing cloths as fast as they could. The room soon looked like a laundry hamper had exploded in it. Clothes, shoes, and socks were laying everywhere. Maya finished first, slid into the bed, and waited for Josh. When he finished, he slid in next to her. But instead of him immediately getting on top of her, like she expected and wanted, Josh just suddenly stopped and stared at her as if he was seeing her for the first time. This puzzled Maya. She wanted to grab him and pull him down on top of her. And she could tell he wanted her as much as she wanted him, but for some reason, he just laid there looking down at her. Finally she asked: "Josh, why are you staring at me like that? You've seen me naked before." This seemed to snap him out of his trance. He smiled the sweetest smile Maya thought she had ever seen, then with a smooth, passionate voice, he answered: "I'd forgotten just how truly beautiful you are Maya." That nearly drove Maya crazy. "Oh god Boing," she said with a moan, "I want you; I want you right now!" As she reached up to kiss him and pull him down on her, he leaned down to do the same. But because both thought the other wasn't going to move, instead of their lips crashing together, it was their foreheads. And that made a noticeable "boink" sound. Both grimaced at the shock of what just happened, rather than the pain. Josh wasn't hurt and he could see Maya wasn't either. "Guess we're a little out of practice," Maya observes with a grin. Josh had to grin and agree with her. "Shall we try that again?" Maya asks. "Oh yeah!" Josh answers excitedly. But again, each thought the other wasn't going to move. This time their foreheads didn't collide, but neither did their lips…again. This time it was their noses that crashed together and it did hurt this time. So much so that Josh pinched his nose with his thumb and forefinger to see if he was bleeding. He wasn't, but it still hurt. Then he feels Maya shaking under him, and his first thought was that she was crying because he'd bumped her nose too hard. He looks down to check on her and sees her face has turned a bright red. But instead of crying, her face was contorted and she was shaking because she tried her best not to laugh. As soon as she saw Josh's concerned look, she couldn't hold back any longer and began laughing uncontrollably. Josh, who now realized the absurdity of what had just happened, started laughing as well as he fell back on top of her. In between breaths, Maya says: "You'd think we were a couple of teenagers who hadn't done this before." Josh could only manage to say: "I know," as he continued to laugh at their predicament. Finally, after their laughter died down, Josh picks himself off of Maya and looks at her. She's still smiling, obviously not upset at what just happened. She reaches up and gently caresses Josh's face. "Not only are we out of practice," Maya begins, "but we're probably tired as well. So, if you'd rather not continue, that's fine. I was looking forward to falling asleep in your arms tonight anyhow." Josh smiles down at her and says: "Okay, but is that what you really want?" He immediately sees a little devilish grin form on her face that used to drive him crazy, and still does. "No really," she answers. "Good," he says as he leans down to kiss her, and this time their lips do connect. As their passion for each other grows, they both realize they want, they need each other right now.
The next morning, Josh's eyes slowly open. He looks up at the ceiling and realizes he's in his bedroom at his apartment. Then Maya's face, glowing in passion, flashes through his mind. And for a second, he wonders if the night he just spent with her was a dream. He looks to her side of the bed and she's not there. But that side looks slept in, the bed is still warm from her laying there, and he smells her perfume on the pillow. A big smile forms on his face as the memory of last night awakens in his mind. Then, he remembers when they dated before, she was almost always the first one up. She loved to start a pot of coffee for them and sometimes start breakfast. He hopes that's what she's doing now. And he wants to find out, so he gets out of bed and finds some cloths to lounge in, warmup pants and an oversized t-shirt. Just as he gets to the kitchen, he stops, smiles, and shakes his head from what he sees. She has her back to him making coffee, and he sees that somehow, she's found one of his old NYU t-shirts and put it on. When they were together before, she loved to wear his NYU t-shirts. He was so much taller than her, that she could almost wear them as a dress….almost. Then he remembered that when she did wear one of his t-shirts, she never wore anything under it. This brings a smile to his face as he wonders if she's wearing anything under this t-shirt. As if to answer his question, she opens a cabinet door and reaches for two coffee mugs on the top shelf. When she does, it causes the bottom of the shirt to rise up just above her hips. What he sees is, in fact, her bare, beautiful, butt, which causes him to grin from ear to ear. He walks up quietly behind her and gently puts his arms around her waist.
"Good morning Gorgeous," he says softly into her ear; then places a gentle kiss on her neck. This causes her to shiver with pleasure. She slowly turns around to face him, keeping his arms around her. She puts her arms around his neck. "Good morning Boing," she says with a smile, "how did you sleep?" Not taking his eyes off hers, he says: "Very good, the best I've slept in a long time."
"Good," she replies, "then I did my job last night." This causes Josh to smile and turn a bright shade of red. "I shouldn't be embarrassed by her saying that," he says to himself, "but Maya always had a way of making me uncomfortably happy." Maya giggles slightly and tells him: "Oh Josh, you shouldn't be embarrassed. I enjoy making you so tired you sleep well." Josh can't keep from laughing slightly at her telling him this. Maya gives him a good-morning kiss, which he enjoys, which makes him to kiss her back. They kiss gently again, followed by another. Soon, they're making out like two people who haven't seen each other in a while, which is true for the way their relationship is right now. Their kisses deepen and then deepen some more as their passion for each other grows. Suddenly Maya pushes herself away from Josh, which causes him to groan in surprise. She smiles that wonderfully devilish smile Josh loves, then in one swift move, her t-shirt comes off and flies across the room. This temporally stuns Josh and he's unexpectedly confronted with his beautiful naked girlfriend. Maya soon makes her intentions very clear, if Josh didn't already know, by pulling his t-shirt off and sending it following the shirt she just took off. Then she throws herself at Josh, begins kissing him passionately, and pulls him down onto the kitchen floor on top of her. As quickly as he can, Josh removes his warmup pants and sends them flying as well. He begins to place hot kisses on Maya's face, neck, and chest, as the two lovers give into their passions for each other again.
A while later, after they've recovered, they get up from the floor and retrieve their clothes. Once they've done that, Maya looks at Josh and says: "That was nice Josh, really nice, and I know we used to make love in the morning, on the kitchen floor of your apartment, all the time, but I guess ten years makes a difference. I mean, my butt hurts, my back hurts, and my knees hurt, so next time, how about we take it to your couch or back to your bed?" Josh nods, but with a smile. "That's fine with me. Even though you were absolutely amazing, my back, knees, and elbows hurt too. I guess I'm not as young as I thought I was." Maya smiles, shakes her head, and remarks: "You're plenty young enough to make me scream Matthews." Her teasing makes him blush, but he's glad Maya is happy. Josh takes Maya in his arms and holds her tightly but gently. She wraps her arms around his waist and the two just stand there, in the quiet, holding each other, and enjoying just being close to each other, something they did a lot once. After standing like this for a few minutes, Maya sighs deeply, and says: "I've missed this; I've really missed this." She hugs Josh tighter as she says this. "Me too," he replies as he holds her tighter as well. This was something, holding each other, that was a thing in their relationship before. Neither had ever experienced anything like it, before or since.
As they continue to hold each other, Josh's stomach suddenly growls. Maya, who's ear is on Josh's chest can't help but giggle a little. "Between last night and this morning, seems like someone worked up an appetite," Maya says with a little grin. "Well, I do have this wonderful girlfriend who seems to like to tire me out," Josh says. Maya looks up at Josh's smiling face, then gives him a quick kiss. "Here," she begins as she let's go of him, "sit at the counter and I'll fix us some breakfast." As she heads to the kitchen, Josh says: "I can help." She smiles and pushes him back into his chair. "No, I want to cook for you this morning," she tells him with a warm smile. "I learned a thing or two about cooking while I was gone." Josh relaxes and watches her cook breakfast. He enjoys watching her cook more that he thought he would. Not only is she a very accomplished cook now, but occasionally, when she reaches for something, the hem of her "dress" rides up high on her hips, which Josh enjoys seeing. She caught him looking a couple of times, but she didn't mind. She would giggle like she used to and then give him a quick kiss, letting Josh know that she appreciates the fact Josh can't seem to take his eyes off her.
After they finish eating their breakfast, Josh helps Maya clean the kitchen. Then they sit at the counter and finish their coffee; Maya leaning on Josh so they can be close. This was a new, but familiar romance for both of them, which they couldn't get enough of. Later, Maya looks up at Josh and sees him deep in thought. "What do you want to do for the rest of the day?" She asks. He looks down at her and she sees a slightly worried look on his face. "Are you okay Josh?" She asks. He seems to be searching for the right words to say, but is having trouble finding them. But Maya thinks he wants to ask her something; she also thinks she knows what it is. "You want to get Mati and the three of us spend the rest of the day together, don't you?" He's surprised that she's seemingly read his mind. "He sheepishly says: "Yeah, I guess I do." Then he realizes how that might sound to Maya and wants to clarify. "It's not that I don't like spending time alone with you Maya," he says hastily. "You're amazing and I love our time together. And if you want to spend the rest of our time today together, just you and me, I'm fine with that. I have so much fun with you, as always, and I don't…." He's suddenly silenced as Maya gently puts a finger on his lips to stop him from rambling. "It's okay Josh," she says, "I miss her too." This brings a smile to his face. "Really?" He asks. "Mmm Hmm," she answers softly with a smile. "I want to take a quick shower before we leave though," she tells him. "Yeah, I could use one too," he says. As Maya's getting up to go to the bathroom, Josh says: "You know Maya, I could take a shower with you." She turns around and sees a devilish smile on his face. "You are insatiable Joshuah Matthews," she says with a big grin, "and that would be fun, but if you do, we'll be a lot later picking up Mati from Riley, if we make it there at all." Josh contemplates what she's told him, and says: "You're right. Go ahead with your shower and I'll take mine when you're finished." She smiles at him and says: "Okay, but I'll take a raincheck on that shower." She gives him a seductive smile before she turns to go to the bathroom. But to tease him one last time, she takes off the t-shirt she's wearing, just before disappearing into Josh's room.
Riley waits patiently for the elevator door to her apartment to open. As soon as it does, a big smile breaks out on her face. "Maya, Uncle Josh," she says, "welcome and come in." She hugs them both before leading them into their comfortable little den. So how has your weekend been so far," she asks the couple. She notices that they've been holding hands the whole time. Maya and Josh smile at each other before Maya answers her best friend. "It's been great Riley; relaxing, easy going, quiet, and fun." This warms Riley's heart. She's wanted them to be together ever since Maya returned to the city. Then Maya adds: "especially last night." Riley's eyes grow big and a knowing grin forms on her face. "Maya," Josh cautions, a little embarrassed about her revealing this to his niece. "Oh, relax Uncle Josh," Riley says as she rolls her eyes. "I knew all about your love life with Maya before. We told each other everything back then, and we still do." Josh is surprised to hear this. He had no idea Maya talked to Riley about the intimate part of their relationship they had back then. "Even though it was a little weird talking about my uncle's sex life," Riley adds. Josh's face turns red when he hears this. Riley sits down next to her uncle, hugs him, and places a kiss on his cheek. "I didn't mean to embarrass you Uncle Josh," she tells him sincerely. "You made Maya so happy back then, and she was dying to tell me. But we never discussed it with anyone else." She sees Josh smile and relax after telling him this. "And you're making her happy now," she continues, "so I imagine I'll hear all about last night at some point." Josh just shakes his head and smiles, knowing there's nothing he can do about these two best friends discussing what he and Maya do together. It's only slightly annoying to him and he can't bring himself to be upset with either of them. "Sorry," he hears Maya say, a little embarrassed herself. "It's okay" he tells her, but them he thinks of something. "Besides," he begins, "I can't wait to tell the guys at work how wild my girlfriend is in bed." He gets the response he was hoping for. "Joshuah Gaberial! Uncle Josh! Both women say simultaneously in shock, then they see the big grin on his face and knew they'd been had. "Okay, we probably deserved that," Riley says, grinning at her favorite uncle," but we're still going to talk about your relationship with Maya." Josh says: "I know and I understand." Then he kisses both of them on the cheek.
"So, you wanna pick up Mati and spend the rest of the day with her?" Riley asks. "Yeah," Josh answers," we both kinda miss her." Riley smiles. "That's so sweet," she tells them. She's been having a lot of fun with the twins, but I know she'll be thrilled to see you here. I'll go get her." Riley leaves the room and a moment later, Mati comes running into the room. "Dad! Maya! What are you doing here?" She asks excitedly. She hugs them both, then sits down between them. "Your dad and I missed you," Maya tells her as she hugs Mati again. "Yeah," Josh begins, "we missed you so much that we decided to come and get you early so we could spend the rest of the day with you." They didn't get the response they expected from her. She just smiles slightly and gave then a weak "okay." Josh and Maya look at each other questionably. "It's okay if you don't want to come with us Mati," Josh tells her. "Maya and I won't be upset." She looks at her dad and says: "No, it's not that dad. It's just that, I've been having so much fun with Penny and Liz."
Josh and Maya see the twins standing near with disappointed looks on their faces. Josh looks at Maya, who smiles and nods; indicating that it's okay with her to take all three girls with them. "Penny, Liz," Josh begins, "if it's okay with your mom and dad, would you like to come with us?" All three little girls get excited. Penny and Liz rush over to Riley, who has just been joined by Farkle because he heard a commotion in their den. "Can we go with Uncle Josh, Aunt Maya, and Mati pleeeeese?!" Maya thinks it's so cute, the twins wanting to go with them. Riley looks at Josh and Maya, and asks, "Are you sure about this? You know they can be a handful, and when you add Mati in with them," she trails off with her question. All three girls start saying: "We'll be good, we promise, please?!"
"We're sure," Josh tells them. "It'll be fun."
"And besides," Maya adds, "You're only be a phone call away." Riley smiles. She looks down at her daughters and tells them: "Okay, you can go, but behave yourselves and do exactly what Uncle Josh and Aunt Maya tell you to do….okay?" They both promise they will, then Riley tells all three girls to go put on some comfortable clothes and shoes. They run out of the room and return soon, excited and ready to go. As they're getting ready to leave, Riley tells Maya: "Have fun and call us it you need us." Maya smiles at her best friend, then kisses her on the cheek. "We will," she replies, "and you two have fun while we're gone. I know you don't get that much time alone, so take advantage of it like Josh and I did last night." Riley grins sheepishly. "I was just thinking the same thing," she tells her best friend. "I guess great minds do think alike." This gets a laugh from Maya. She hugs her best friend, then her and Josh leave with the excited girls.
Maya and Josh were somewhat surprised at how well the girls acted. They were expecting at least some trouble from them, but they were on their best behavior. They did exactly what Josh and Maya told them to do and never got too far away from them, so they could keep an eye on the three. They went to several places they thought the girls would like going to together. They didn't go to an art museum, like Maya and Josh usually did when Mati was with them. When she asked them why, Josh told her that Penny and Liz wouldn't enjoy that like they would and they wanted to do things all three of them would enjoy. This seemed to make her happy.
Later on in the afternoon, as evening approached, they ended up in a small park. Josh and Maya sat on a bench and watched the trio play together. Josh had bought a couple of model airplanes the girls could throw around and chase which was what they were doing now. Their laughter echoed all through the park. Maya and Josh couldn't help but smile as they watched them play together. They held hands and Maya laid her head on Josh's shoulder as they watched. After the girls had been playing together for a while, a couple walked up to them. They seemed to be about Maya's parents age or a little older. When they approached, the woman said: "We've been watching you daughters play together; they seem so happy. Then we saw you two watching them, holding hands, and thoroughly enjoying yourselves watching them. We just had to come over and tell what a beautiful family you have." Maya, startled by the couples misunderstanding of their situation, quickly looks at Josh, turns back to the couple, and says: "Oh, no, they're not….." But Josh interrupts her. "Thank you," he says. Then he looks at Maya and without taking his eyes off her, says: "Maya and I are very lucky." The couple smiles at them, then leaves. When Maya gives Josh a questioning look, he tells her: "Look, I didn't want to spend the next thirty minutes explaining our situation. I'd be saying: 'the oldest girl is mine, but not hers (meaning Maya); and the two youngest don't belong to either of us, but they do belong to her best friend, who happens to be my niece.'" Maya stops him then. "Okay, okay," she begins, "I get what you're saying." She smiles at him which causes him to lean down and kiss her before telling her: "Besides, I do feel like we're very lucky." Maya, hearing the love in Josh's voice, can only smile and return his kiss.
As Josh leans back, with Maya snuggled up to him, as they watch the girls continue to play with one another, he can't help but think that he would never have believed he could be this happy again. But what he didn't know, what he couldn't have known, was that something would soon happen that would break his and Mati's hearts for the second time in their lives.