Traci and Rachel were busy decorating the Abbott house for New Year's Eve. Admiring their handiwork, Traci smiled as she said, "I think we outdid ourselves."
"It looks great," Rachel said, "I hope everyone comes."
"I notified them all," Traci said, "They said they would try to be here."
"That's what people say when they don't want to come," Rachel said.
"We're here and that's a good start," Traci said, "I'm going to check on things in the kitchen."
Upon hearing the front door open, Rachel turned to see Kyle arrive home. "Hi," Kyle said, smiling when he saw her.
"I didn't expect you home so early," Rachel said.
"It's New Year's Eve," Kyle said, "I wanted to start the holiday early. So, now I am ready to take you out on the town to celebrate." He leaned in to kiss her, cutting it short when he noticed Traci enter the room.
"Aunt Traci," he said.
"Don't mind me," Traci said, placing a pile of napkins on the table.
"I was just impressing the importance of taking my fiancé out to celebrate the approaching New Year," Kyle said.
"If you had bothered to answer my phone message, you would have noticed the plan for tonight," Traci said.
"The plan?" Kyle said.
"We are going to spend New Year's Eve right here," Rachel said, gesturing to the decorations in the room, "Traci and I have been setting everything up."
"I thought we were going out," Kyle said.
"I know we talked about that," Rachel said.
"How am I supposed to show you off, at home?" Kyle said.
"We can always go out another time," Rachel said.
"But not tonight?" Kyle said.
"We are planning this party for Jack," Traci said, "He is always so eager to have the family together, so we thought that it would be wonderful if we could get everyone all together and surprise him with this party."
Kyle nodded. "You're not disappointed about tonight?" Rachel said.
"If this will make my Dad happy, then I am all for it," Kyle said.
Victoria answered the front door bell, to reveal Billy on the other side.
"Get your coat let's go," Billy said.
"What are you talking about?" Victoria said.
"We are spending New Year's Eve together," Billy said, entering the house.
Victoria shut the door as she said, "When did we agree to this?"
"I am taking you to the best New Year's Eve party in town," Billy said, "There will be food, good company. Besides, I was thinking who I would like to kiss at midnight, you came to mind."
"Where is this party?" Victoria said.
"My place," Billy said.
"A party for two? I don't think the two of us alone at your place is the best idea," Victoria said.
"That's actually a better idea than what I had in mind," Billy said, "The family is throwing a surprise New Year's Eve party for Jack. You're invited to join us."
"I appreciate the offer," Victoria said, "I can't go. I have a million things on my mind, with my Mom and then there's Dad."
"Which is exactly why you need to come with me, to have fun and take a break from all the stress," Billy said.
"Billy, I really don't think…" Victoria stared.
"I'm not taking no for an answer," Billy said.
Victoria paused before she said, "Who all is going to be there?"
"Jack, Traci, Kyle, Abby and their respective significant others plus me and you," Billy said. Victoria was hesitating, so Billy said, "I really want you to be there."
"Okay, I'll go for a little while," Victoria said, "No promises about how long I will stay."
"Fair enough," Billy said.
"I am so glad you could make it," Traci said, as she welcomed Kerry at the house.
"Thank you for inviting me," Kerry said, "This will be a wonderful surprise for Jack."
"Kerry," Kyle said, as she entered the living room, "Nice to see you."
"And you as well," Kerry said.
Motioning for Rachel to come closer, Kyle said, "I don't think you've met my fiancé."
Looking at Kyle and smiling, Kerry said, "You're what?"
"Kerry this is Rachel," Kyle said, "Rachel this is Kerry."
Kerry and Rachel greeted each other, when Kyle said, "We got engaged over Christmas."
"That's wonderful," Kerry said, "Congratulations to you both."
"Thank you," Kyle and Rachel said. Kyle continued, "Kerry works at Jabot, she's our genius in the lab."
"He's being far too generous," Kerry said.
"How do you know Jack?" Rachel said.
"We've been dating," Kerry said.
"I didn't realize he was seeing anyone," Rachel said, "That's terrific."
Responding to the sound of the doorbell, Rachel said, "I'll get it." Opening the door, Rachel greeted Billy and Victoria.
"Quite the turn of events," Kerry said, "Last I heard you and your girlfriend were on the verge of breaking up."
"It's true that she was more than upset with me," Kyle said, "With good reason. So, I did everything I could to prove how I feel about her. Eventually, she forgave me and we realized we are meant to be together."
"I truly am happy for the two of you," Kerry said, "You are very lucky you found each other."
"You're telling me," Kyle said, "She's the best."
"This place has transformed from Christmas to New Year's Eve," Abby said, as she stood with Arturo.
"It's very bright," Arturo said, "I don't remember the last time I saw so many sparkles."
"You can thank Traci and Rachel for the decorations," Billy said.
"It's a great idea to have a surprise party," Abby said.
"It is," Billy said, "Did you hear about the other surprise in the family?"
"Do I want to know?" Abby said.
"It's about Kyle," Billy said.
"What has he done this time?" Abby sighed.
"He got engaged," Billy said.
"He what?" Abby said. Billy nodded. "To who?" she said.
"Who do you think?" Billy said, "Rachel."
"This a joke," Abby said, "Tell me you're kidding."
"That was my reaction," Billy said, "Apparently they are each other's true love."
Abby looked across the room, distastefully watching Rachel.
"What's wrong?" Arturo said.
"How can he be engaged to that woman?" Abby said.
"What, you don't like her?" Arturo said.
"I like her fine," Abby said, "This is all happened so soon. I don't see how he can really know her in such a short amount of time."
"It's quick," Arturo said, "It wasn't that long ago that he broke my sister's heart."
"There's that too," Abby said, "He's dating Lola, then they break up and next thing he and Rachel are engaged? What is he thinking?"
"Normally, I wouldn't defend him," Arturo said, "But love can be a powerful thing."
"It can also make you blind," Abby said, "Maybe it's about time I congratulate the happy couple."
"Abby…" Arturo said, following her across the room.
Approaching Rachel, Abby said, "I heard about your engagement. Congratulations, you got what you wanted."
"And what is that?" Rachel said.
"A handsome young man to spend your life with," Abby said, "And all the wealth that goes with being Mrs. Kyle Abbott."
"Abby that's enough," Kyle said, walking over.
"If you are suggesting that my love for Kyle is based on riches, nothing could be further from the truth," Rachel said, "All of your relationships may be superficial, but ours is not!"
"Oh, wow," Abby said, "Was that a direct insult to my boyfriend?"
"Everything you just suggested about me, I can say about your significant other," Rachel said.
"Abby and I have a very solid, wonderful relationship," Arturo said, "But I wouldn't expect you to understand a special connection between two people, because if you did, you wouldn't have broken my sister's heart."
"Here we go again," Rachel said, "That woman caused her own misery."
"You know what you did…" Arturo started.
Kyle stepped in between them, cutting Arturo off. "I'm going to suggest you not finish that sentence," Kyle said, "Don't talk to her like that. She did not do anything wrong."
"But she did," Abby said, "She snowed you."
"Abby…" Kyle said in a frustrated tone.
Stepping closer to Rachel, Abby said, "It's true. First you tried with Billy. You couldn't make him fall in love with you, that was a huge fail. So, now you've latched on to Kyle. You got an Abbott after all. Because all you want from Kyle, is a rich husband."
Rachel didn't hesitate, as she slapped Abby. Putting her hand to her cheek, Abby stared at Rachel in shock. Rachel tried to recover herself, regretting that she let her emotions get the best of her.
"Abby?" Arturo said, "Are you okay?"
"Yes…I'm alright," Abby said.
"Rachel?" Kyle said.
"I'm sorry, I know I shouldn't have done that," Rachel said.
"I understand why you did," Kyle said.
"You're actually defending her," Abby said.
"You were being extremely rude," Kyle said.
"I have had it," Traci said, angrily walking towards them, "That is quite enough from all of you. Tonight is supposed to be for Jack, to unite this family. That is what we all are, so I suggest you put your hostilities aside. I would hope you will not act this way when Jack gets here."
"You're right, Aunt Traci, I'm sorry," Abby said.
"Abby, I'm sorry," Rachel said, "I should not have done what I did to you."
"Must have hit pretty close to the mark to get her so riled up," Abby said.
"She apologized," Kyle defended.
"Fine, whatever," Abby said, walking to the other side of the room.
"Kyle, I'm sorry," Rachel said, "What she said to me, just made me so angry."
"I understand," Kyle said, "But you can't let her get to you like that. When Abby gets an idea in her head, she can't let go of it."
"You know that I'm not with you because of your money, right?" Rachel said, "Tell me you know that."
"I do know that," Kyle said, "You and I have something very special and if Abby can't understand that, it's too bad for her. I know you love me and I love you."
"I do love you," Rachel said, "And still would if you were bankrupt and living in a trailer."
"Good to know, " Kyle laughed, as he hugged her.
"Was that really necessary?" Billy said, to Abby, "Do you enjoy humiliating people? Because you didn't just do it to Rachel, you dragged my name into it too."
"What is with the male population in this house that makes you all defend that woman?" Abby said.
"That woman has a name," Billy said, "Rachel is going to be part of this family, so I suggest you find a way to deal with it."
"Everyone, Jack is coming up the front walk!" Traci said.
"Are we hiding or something?" Kyle said.
"Yes, everyone in the other room," Traci said, ushering people along, "Billy turn off the lights." Billy did as he was instructed and darted into the other room.
Jack opened the front door and was surprised to find all the lights off. Flipping the switch for the lights, he turned around to see and empty room.
Sighing he said, "Well, happy new year."
"Hey Dad," Kyle said, strolling back into the room.
"Kyle," Jack said, "Why were all the lights off in here?"
"Don't move," Kyle said, reaching into his back pocket for his phone, "Just stay right there."
"Why, what's going on?" Jack frowned. Watching Kyle start to video record him, Jack said, "What are you doing?"
"Okay, now!" Kyle called.
Jack heard voices yell, "Surprise!" as people began to fill the room. Jack's frown merged into half a smile as he said, "What is all this?"
"Jack, we are going to spend new year's eve, all together here," Traci said, "As a family."
"It was Traci's idea to surprise you," Billy said, "Which we did, by the look on your face."
"I was expecting a quiet solitude evening," Jack said.
"Well, we can all leave then," Billy teased.
"No, this is much better," Jack said, "I'm moved that you would all do this for me." Putting an arm around Traci's shoulders, he continued, "Looking around this room and seeing all of you here, there are not any other people I would rather spend my new year's eve with." Pausing he joked, "Kyle, are you planning to record this entire evening?"
"Just the good parts," Kyle smiled, continuing to film.
"Jack, take your coat off and stay awhile," Billy said.
Smiling Jack did just that, when he heard a familiar voice say, "Happy new year, Jack."
"Kerry," Jack said, "I'm happy you're here. I didn't know I was going to see you tonight."
"I didn't either," Kerry said, "But Traci called with this lovely invitation and the surprise part of the evening. I couldn't resist."
"It's a wonderful surprise," Jack said. They shared quick kiss, when Jack caught sight Kyle lurking nearby. "Turn that thing off," Jack said.
Kyle was checking his phone, when Abby approached him, full wine glass in hand. "You know, there is a party going on around you," she said, "And you're busy with your phone?"
"I was just checking out the video from earlier," Kyle said, "It turned out pretty good." He tucked the phone back into this pocket, noticing Abby staring across the room with a frown.
"Something's going on in your head," Kyle said, "I can see the wheels turning."
"I was thinking about Aunt Traci," Abby said.
"What about her?" Kyle said.
"It's just…" Abby started.
"Out with it," Kyle said.
"Everyone here has that special someone to be with. Everyone except Aunt Traci," Abby said.
"Nice of you to point that out," Kyle said.
"At midnight we will all kiss someone and she won't have that," Abby said, "I hope she won't feel like the odd one out. I feel bad for her."
"Aunt Traci seems happy enough to me," Kyle said, "I think she is a strong enough person to handle it."
"She shouldn't have to," Abby said, "There must be lots of men who would like to get to know her."
"Maybe this is the way she wants it," Kyle said, "Or maybe this will be the year she finds someone."
"Maybe it will," Abby smiled.
"What's that look about?" Kyle said.
"We should help her," Abby said.
"Meaning?" Kyle said.
"What do you say, that you and I, make it our new year's resolution to find someone for Aunt Traci," Abby said.
"I think you should make a resolution to stop sticking your nose into other people's lives," Kyle said.
"Don't you want her to have happiness?" Abby said.
"If she is meant to be with someone, she will find that person all in good time," Kyle said.
"There is nothing wrong with helping to speed things along," Abby said, "I'm sure between us we can accomplish our goal."
"Maybe you're right," Kyle said.
"Deal?" Abby said, offering her hand.
Kyle hesitated before accepting her handshake. "Deal," he said, as Abby giggled in excitement.
"Five…four…three…two…one!" Everyone cheered as the new year arrived. Smiling, Kyle kissed Rachel.
"Happy new year," Jack said, as he kissed Kerry.
Victoria surprised Billy by instigating the kiss they shared.
"Happy new year," Arturo said, holding Abby in his arms.
"It's going to be the best one yet," Abby said, engaging him in a kiss.
Traci watched her family, the happiness they shared made her smile. "Happy new year, Traci," Billy said as he and Kyle approached her.
"And I wish a wonderful year to both of you," Traci smiled. Billy motioned to Kyle and they simultaneously gave Traci a kiss on each cheek.
"Oh," Traci smiled, "Thank you, that was lovely."
"Happy new year," Kyle said, hugging her. As he hugged his aunt, he caught sight of Abby who raised her glass to him.
"A toast," Billy said, raising a champagne glass, "To 2019, I hope it's a great year for all of us."
"It will be a great year," Jack said, "Besides, aren't we having a wedding this year?"
"You bet we are," Kyle said, wrapping his arms around Rachel from behind.
"Any idea when?" Jack said.
"We're working on it," Rachel said, "Don't worry, we'll let you know."
"We want each of you to be there," Kyle said.
"I wouldn't miss it," Jack said.
"I'm very excited," Traci said.
"I'm glad to hear you say that," Rachel said, "Because I'm going to need some bridesmaids." She smiled at Traci.
"Me?" Traci said. Rachel nodded. "Oh, honey I'd be delighted," Traci said.
"As long as we're talking wedding party," Kyle said, "I need a best man." He looked at Jack and said, "Dad, would you do me the honor?"
"You're asking me?" Jack said.
"No one else I'd rather ask," Kyle said.
"Yes," Jack said, "I would be proud to stand up for you." Jack shared a warm hug with Kyle.
Gesturing to Billy, Kyle said, "I want you to be in my wedding party too."
Billy glanced behind him, before he said, "Are you talking to me?"
"Yes, you," Kyle said.
Billy paused and looked at Victoria, who nodded at him. "Okay," Billy said, "I'll do it."
"Way to exclude me," Abby muttered to Arturo.
"Can you blame her?" Arturo said, "Besides, you're going to be too busy with your own plans."
"The restaurant is going to take up a lot of my time," Abby said.
"Yes, the restaurant among other things," Arturo said.
"Other things?" Abby said.
"You never know what else might come up," Arturo said.
"What are you talking about?" Abby said.
"Abby, haven't you figured it out yet?" Arturo said, "We are meant to be together."
"I'm very happy with you," Abby said.
"As I am with you," Arturo said, "There's no one else I want to spend the rest of my life with." He got down on one knee.
"What are you doing?" Abby anxiously said.
Everyone else watched, as Arturo took one of Abby's hands and said, "I can't imagine my life without you and I wouldn't want to. Abby, I love you more than I thought was possible." Producing a ring, he said, "Will you marry me?"
Eyes wide, Abby stared at Arturo in disbelief. She was quiet, so Arturo prompted, "Abby?"
Abby slowly nodded, tears in her eyes, she smiled. "Yes," she said, "Yes, I will marry you." Everyone clapped as Arturo put the ring on Abby's finger. Smiling he stood up and taking her in his arms he kissed her.
"I'm surprised how quiet it is with all the people that were in the house last night," Traci said, enjoying a New Year's Day brunch, at the Abbott dining room table with Jack, "I thought we would have a full table for brunch too."
"The rest of the brood must be sleeping in," Jack said, "It was late when the party broke up."
"It was," Traci agreed, "Now, we have two family weddings to look forward to."
"First Kyle gets engaged and now Abby," Jack said, "How did they grow up so fast?"
"They do," Traci said, "But it is wonderful to see them all so happy."
The sound of the front door opening, caught their attention, as they saw Billy arrive home. Entering the dining room, Billy said, "Did I miss the entire brunch?"
"There's still plenty left," Jack said, "It's just been me and Traci so far."
"Everyone is otherwise occupied," Billy said, taking a chair.
Traci and Jack looked at him hesitantly, so Billy said, "We have two newly engaged couples in the house. It's not difficult to figure out what they're doing up there."
"I prefer not to speculate," Jack said, "Besides you just got home, where were you?"
"When I took Victoria home, I spent the rest of the night there," Billy said.
"Did you?" Jack said.
"I wanted to see the kids this morning," Billy said, "We had a great family breakfast and spent some fun time together."
"If you say so," Jack said.
"Jack, don't tease him," Traci said, "If Billy doesn't want to discuss his love life, it's none of our business."
Jack tried unsuccessfully to supress his laughter.
"Are you both done?" Billy said.
"Is it just me or does anyone else think we might have yet another wedding this year?" Jack said.
"From your lips to Victoria's ears," Billy said.
"So you are back together," Jack said.
"It's hard to say," Billy said, "She's not ready to commit to anything and with our track record I can understand why. However, I believe our relationship has promise."
"I hope it works out for you," Traci said.
Voices and laughter emerged from the other room, prompting Billy to say, "Speaking of happy couples…"
Kyle entered the dining area, Rachel's hand in his, as he said a jubilant, "Happy New Year folks!"
"Someone's in a good mood," Billy said.
"No reason not to be," Kyle said, as he and Rachel sat down, "New year, fresh start, weddings to plan."
"Does that mean you've set a date?" Jack said.
"Nothing's definite, we're thinking early spring," Kyle said, "In May."
"April," Rachel corrected him.
"Right," Kyle said, "What did I say?"
Rachel shook her head at him.
"That's not too far away to plan a wedding," Billy said.
"Like he said, it's not definite, we have to wait and see," Rachel said, "Maybe we will have it in May."
The sound of the doorbell rang, prompting Jack to stand up, instead Billy pushed back his chair and said, "I've got it."
Billy crossed the living room and opening the door he paused when he saw who was on the other side. "What are you doing here?" Billy said.
"Nice to see you too Billy," Kevin said.
"I asked you a question," Billy said.
"Is Rachel here?" Kevin said, "I brought someone to see her."
Only then did Billy realize Kevin and Rachel's 12-year old daughter was standing slightly behind Kevin.
"Is she expecting you?" Billy said.
"No, we thought we could surprise her," Kevin said.
"You'll certainly do that," Billy said, "Come on in."
As Kevin and his daughter took their coats off, Billy said, "She's in the other room, you're going to give her a shock."
Focusing on the girl, Billy said, "Hi, I'm Billy. You must be Susie."
"Susan," the girl said.
"I knew you when you were just a baby," Billy said.
"You did?" Susan said.
"Yeah, your Mom and I are friends," Billy said.
"You are?" Kevin said, "Even after…"
"People change," Billy said, "People forgive."
"Billy, who was at the door?" Jack said, entering the room, stopping when he saw their guest.
"Kevin?" Jack said.
"Hi Jack," Kevin said.
"Is this who I think it is?" Jack smiled.
Kevin nodded.
"Someone's going to be very happy to see you," Jack said.
"Rachel?" Billy called, "Can you please come in here?"
"What is it?" Rachel said, walking in. Rachel stopped in her tracks when she saw Kevin and Susan, causing Kyle to stop short behind her.
Rachel stared in disbelief, hoping she wasn't dreaming, realizing her daughter was standing in front of her. She slowly took a few steps over, unable to hold back the tears of happiness. Looking at Kevin, Rachel said, "Does she know who…?"
"Yeah, it's okay," Kevin said.
"Hi," Rachel said.
"Hi," Susan said. She looked uneasily at Kevin, so he nodded reassurance at her.
"Do you know who I am?" Rachel said, "Do you remember?"
Susan nodded, "You're my Mom."
Traci entered the room and smiled when she realized what was happening. Kyle leaned into her and said, "Is that Rachel's little girl?"
"I believe so," Traci said, "She must be thrilled." Watching Rachel and how happy she looked made Kyle smile.
"Would it be okay, if I gave you a hug?" Rachel said.
Susan didn't answer just opened her arms and reciprocated a hug with Rachel. Tears spilled down Rachel's cheeks at the feeling of holding her daughter in her arms. Looking over at Kevin, Rachel mouthed, "Thank you." Kevin smiled back at her.
Afterwards, Rachel wiped her tears away and said, "I'm so happy to see you. You got so big. I'm sorry I haven't seen you for such a long time."
"It's okay," Susan said, "Daddy said you were sick."
Rachel nodded. "I was," Rachel said, "But not anymore. I'm much better now."
Making introductions, Rachel said, "This is my daughter Susan. Most of you probably haven't seen her since she was really young." Guiding Susan further into the room, Rachel said, "Susan this is Jack." Susan offered her hand and Jack smiled as he reciprocated the handshake. "Hi," Jack said.
"This is Billy," Susan continued.
"We got reacquainted at the door," Billy said.
"This is Traci," Rachel said.
"Hi," Traci said, "I don't think you and I have ever met before. But I am so glad to have the chance to see you now."
"It's nice to meet you too," Susan said.
"And this is Kyle," Rachel said. Kevin noticed Rachel guide Kyle over by the hand and not let it go for several seconds after.
"Hi," Kyle smiled, "I'm happy to meet you. I've heard a lot about you."
"You have?" Susan said.
"Oh yeah," Kyle said, "All good stuff though." Kevin watched Rachel and Kyle share a smile.
Rachel was overjoyed to finally be able to spend time with her daughter. Jack and Traci retreated from the others, but Billy and Kyle stayed for the visit. Rachel and Susan shared the couch together, while Kyle sat on the other side of Rachel. Billy and Kevin each sat in a chair across from the others. Susan quickly became comfortable with the family, and they all noticed she was paying extra attention to Billy. Susan would smile at him and giggle at almost everything Billy said.
"Hey Kevin," Billy said, "Where's Bella?"
"She's with Esther," Kevin said, "Quality time with grandma."
"You could have brought her too," Rachel said.
"Yeah, it would have been great to see her again," Billy said.
"I wasn't sure," Kevin said, "I thought it might be better this way, since you weren't expecting us."
Pointing to Rachel's finger, Susan said, "That's pretty."
Looking at her hand, Rachel said, "Oh you mean this. It's an engagement ring."
Kevin had already noticed it. He figured Rachel and Billy were finally getting married and just hadn't said anything about it yet.
"You're getting married?" Susan said, "To Billy?"
"Oh, no," Rachel laughed, "Kyle and I are getting married."
"You're what?" Kevin said, unable to stop himself.
Looking at Kevin, Rachel said, "We're getting married."
Kevin half-laughed, prompting Kyle to say, "Is that okay with you?"
"Sure," Kevin said, "Whatever."
"How do you feel about me getting married?" Rachel said, "And with Kyle."
"I don't mind," Susan said. Leaning forward to look at Kyle, she said, "Are you going to be my new step-dad?"
"Susie, it doesn't really work that way," Kevin said.
"Actually, that's exactly how it works," Kyle said, "So, yes I will be."
"Are you okay with that?" Rachel said.
"Yeah," Susan said, "Can I be in the wedding?"
"Of course," Rachel said, "We haven't set a date yet, but we'll be sure to let you and your dad know."
Kyle noticed Kevin shake his head as he listened to their conversation. "However, you have to make sure you don't outshine the bride," Billy said. Susan giggled.
"Honey, we have to get going," Kevin said.
"She hasn't been here that long," Billy said.
"Please don't leave yet," Rachel said.
"Daddy, can we stay longer?" Susan said.
"Okay," Kevin said, standing up and pacing the room, "Just for a little while."
Kyle watched Kevin wander into the dining room and leaning in to Rachel, he said, "I'll be right back."
Entering the dining area, Kyle saw Kevin take a muffin off the table and take a bite. "Help yourself," Kyle said.
"I had forgotten how good these are," Kevin said.
"Did you live here with Rachel?" Kyle said.
"No, but I was here a lot before Rachel and I were married," Kevin said, "Or didn't you know that."
"I think you and I got off on the wrong foot," Kyle said.
"How's that?" Kevin said, devouring the last of his muffin.
"You don't seem to like me much," Kyle said.
"I don't have a problem with you," Kevin said, "You're Jack Abbott's son, right?"
"Yes, I am," Kyle said.
"How old are you?" Kevin said.
"Excuse me?" Kyle said.
"It's just that I never thought Rachel would fall for, or even marry someone like you," Kevin said.
"Someone like me," Kyle repeated, with an insulted tone, "What does that mean?"
"You seem awfully young to be in this relationship," Kevin said.
"Not that it's any of your business," Kyle said, "But Rachel and I are in love."
"You're kidding yourself if you believe that," Kevin said.
"Care to explain?" Kyle said.
"You have money," Kevin said, "That's the only explanation."
"The only explanation is that we are in love with each other," Kyle said, "I resent you insinuating otherwise."
"You may be in love with her," Kevin said, "I can understand that, but you can't honestly believe that she loves you. Trust me kid, she loves your money."
"The only reason I am not kicking you out on your ass, is that little girl in there," Kyle said, "But you don't come into my house and start making a bunch of assumptions, accusing me of things you know nothing about and insulting me and Rachel in the process."
"Tell me something," Kevin said, "How much experience do you have raising a pre-teen? Someone who will be a teenager in the not too distant future."
"Any parenting issues, Rachel and I will figure out together," Kyle said, "I can be a good father figure to her."
"She has a father," Kevin said, "She doesn't need another one. Especially one who looks like he's barely out his teen years himself."
"I'm beginning to see why your marriage didn't work out," Kyle said, "I sincerely hope you didn't treat Rachel like this."
"Don't you ever say that again," Kevin said, "I loved her and things were good with us."
"Apparently not that good," Kyle said.
"You're right kid," Kevin said, "I don't like you."
"Likewise," Kyle said, "Stop calling me kid, I'm a grown man."
"An immature one," Kevin said, "You know I would prefer Rachel to marry Billy to you and I can't stand him either. At least he seems to have found some maturity. When I saw her engagement ring, I thought that's who she was marrying."
"Sorry, to disappoint you," Kyle said.
"I refuse to let my daughter be partially raised in this environment," Kevin said.
"What does that mean?" Kyle said.
"If you marry Rachel, I won't bring Susie for anymore visits," Kevin said.
"You can't do that," Kyle said.
"I can and I will," Kevin said, "I am her legal parent."
"So is Rachel," Kyle said.
"Do you even know she was declared unfit?" Kevin said, "That's why my daughter is with me."
"That's not fair," Kyle said, "That was before, she's better now."
"This marriage of yours will fall apart," Kevin said, "Sure it might seem wonderful at first. Enjoy it while it lasts, because it won't be for long. I don't want my daughter to be collateral damage from your disaster of a relationship. I don't think either of you are fit to raise a child," Kevin said.
"How dare you," Kyle said.
Kevin took a few hard steps towards Kyle, causing Kyle to back up a few feet. "Yeah," Kevin said, "That's what I thought."
"I'm not afraid of you," Kyle said.
"You should be," Kevin said.
"What does that mean?" Kyle said, "Was that a threat?"
"You don't want to tussle with me kid," Kevin said.
Kevin walked into the other room, saying, "Okay, it's time to go."
Rachel could see Kyle was fuming. Going over to him she said, "What's wrong?"
"I want him out of this house," Kyle said.
"Why? What happened?," Rachel said, "What did he say?"
"What didn't he say?" Kyle said, "He was rude, condescending, insulting and that was just for starters."
"Kevin," Rachel said, "What exactly is your problem? You will not speak to my fiancé in that manner."
"Aww, did he come crying to you?" Kevin said.
Billy could see the tension, so he tried to divert Susan's attention away from them.
"You may not like Kyle, but it's called respect," Rachel said.
"You know, I was relieved even glad that you were well enough to be released," Kevin said, "Too bad you were not as well as I'd hoped."
"You son of a…" Kyle said, charging him. Rachel intervened and stopped Kyle from a physical altercation.
"You see that temper," Kevin said, "I don't want my daughter exposed to that."
"If I didn't have a better handle on my emotions, I would hit you myself," Rachel said.
"Clearly, your judgement is impaired," Kevin said, "Since you are marrying someone who looks and acts like he's barely out of high school."
"I am a successful business man and a Harvard graduate, thank you very much," Kyle said.
"I bet that overpriced education makes you feel entitled to anything including your fiancé," Kevin said, "It doesn't make you entitled to my daughter. Don't you call yourself her step-father again because you never will be."
"That's where you're wrong," Rachel said.
"Do you want to tell her what you said to me, or do you want me to do it?" Kyle said.
"What did you say?" Rachel said.
Kevin didn't respond, so Kyle said, "He told me he wasn't going to bring Susie for anymore visits, ever again, if we get married."
"You heartless excuse for a human being," Rachel said, "Kyle, is a good man. He's hard-working, responsible and a far decent person than you seem to be anymore. Furthermore, I have a right to see my daughter."
"Actually, you don't," Kevin said, pulling his gloves on, "You lost that right, remember? I brought her here to be nice. I wish I'd known that was a mistake. So, you go ahead and marry this child if you want to. Then I'll do what I have to do."
Billy intervened and said, "Fisher, you're a piece of work. Your daughter is standing right there and you're disrespecting her mother in front of her."
"You're not going to use Susie as a pawn to keep me and Kyle apart," Rachel said.
"Susie, time to go," Kevin said.
Rachel leaned in close to Kevin and said, "You try to keep my daughter from me and I will sue you for full custody."
Kevin looked at Rachel and for the first time he showed concern in his face. "You try and you'll lose," Kevin said.
"Don't bet on it," Kyle said, "She has me and the entire family behind her. We take you to court and I promise you, you'll be in for the fight of your life."
"I told you not to mess with me," Kevin said.
Billy grabbed hold of Kevin's arm, with a tight grip. "Don't threaten my family," Billy said, "You do not want to mess with me either."
Kevin and Billy glared at each other, before Kevin said, "Come on sweetheart, let's go."
"Are you mad at Mom?" Susan said.
"Nobody's mad," Rachel said, "Sometimes we have serious conversations. There's nothing to worry about. I'm so glad you came to visit and I will see you soon."
Susan hugged her mother and said, "I had a great time." Rachel smiled and said, "Me too."
"Bye sweetheart," Billy said. Susan walked over and gave Billy a quick hug. "You're fun," Susan said.
Billy smiled and said, "We'll do it again sometime."
"Susie, we really have to go," Kevin said.
"Okay," Susan said. She walked towards the door, but backtracked and ran to Kyle. Kevin bristled as Susan hugged Kyle. "Bye," she said.
"It was great to meet you," Kyle said, "I'll see you again. Bye for now."
Rachel shared another hug with Susan, who whispered in her mother's ear, "They're really cute."
Rachel smiled and said, "They sure are. Bye, I love you." Rachel kissed her cheek.
"I love you too," Susan said, reciprocating the kiss on the cheek. Rachel was visibly moved by her daughter's words, as the tears came once again.
"You heard her," Billy said, to Kevin.
Kevin opened the door as Kyle said, "We'll be seeing you." Susan waived as she and her father retreated down the walkway. Rachel stood in the doorway and watched until Susan was out of sight, before she shut the door.
"Rachel, he has no right to keep her from you," Billy said.
"That's right," Kyle said, hugging her, "And we won't let him try."
"I need to get her back," Rachel said, "I have to."
"You will," Billy said, "We'll see to it."