Toy Story & Monsters Inc. Crossover
Author's note- know song Mary sings is from 2019 film… but I love it so pretend it's relevant. This is fanfiction, songs from the future can exist in the past. Again, the Broadway show from this chapter doesn't come out until 2008… too bad, it exists early in my story. I'm also not a doctor. Did some research for medical conditions. Hope it's good enough for what I wrote. But please don't get too stuck on little details.
WARNING: Character death.
Toys, Monsters, & Time
Chapter 5- Poor Unfortunate Soul
Andy checks his outfit for the fourth time in the mirror. He's nervous about this date. As he looks out his window to the closed one across the roof, he wonders if his nerves could be from something else. Maybe he should cancel the date with his relationship with Mary so on edge. It'd be rude to cancel now. Besides, he doesn't have her phone number, so he'd have to wait until she was already here. He'll talk to Mary after the date.
Maybe he could do both. If his date isn't too late, he could talk to Mary and convince her to sneak into his room to watch a movie. He still picked one up, hoping things would be good between them by now. He won't even care if there are no snacks. He'll find something in his cupboard if he has to.
"Andy!" Mrs. Davis calls. "Hailey is here."
Andy takes another deep breath before heading downstairs. Hailey is in the doorway wearing a simple black dress. She smiles as Andy reaches the last few steps.
"Hey," she greets softly.
"Hey," Andy returns.
"Are you two ready to go?" Mrs. Davis asks.
"I'm all set," Andy nods.
"Ready," Hailey continues to smile.
The phone delays their departure.
"One second. I better get that. Then we can go," Mrs. Davis makes her way to the phone in the kitchen.
Molly comes in from the family room.
"Who are you? Where's Mary? I want to watch a movie!" Molly frowns.
"Molly," Andy slightly scolds. "I told you; she's not coming tonight. I'm going on a date with Hailey."
"Why can't you go on one with Mary?" Molly questions.
"Because we're just friends," Andy answers.
"So," Hailey speaks up, smile gone. "Mary comes here a lot?"
"She's always here! Mary is the best," Molly beams.
"We're neighbors. We also have movie nights every week," Andy reveals.
"That's right. I forgot," Hailey notes.
A loud gasp comes from the kitchen.
"I'll be right over!" Mrs. Davis rushes before clicking off the phone.
She hurries back to the front door.
"Hailey, you need to go home. I hope it's okay that you walk back," Mrs. Davis speaks quickly.
Mrs. Davis doesn't wait for the three of them to process the news.
"Wait why?" Andy puzzles.
Mrs. Davis is out the door.
"Andy, Molly, we're going next door. Whoever is out last shut the door," Mrs. Davis doesn't wait.
Andy follows along with Hailey and Molly.
"What's going on?" Andy repeats.
He follows his mom to the Gibbses' yard. Just as Mrs. Davis begins to walk up the steps, Mr. Gibbs opens his door and quickly moves out.
"Thank you, Emily. Call me if you need anything," Mr. Gibbs requests.
"Call me with any news," Mrs. Davis counters.
Mr. Gibbs races to his car.
"Mom, why are you over here? Where is Mr. Gibbs going?" Andy starts to freak out.
Mrs. Davis takes a deep breath before placing her hands on his shoulders.
"Mrs. Gibbs and Mary were in a serious car accident. Mr. Gibbs is on his way to the hospital," Mrs. Davis shares.
Andy's mouth falls open and he isn't able to say anything. He turns and runs to the Gibbses' car.
"Andy, where are you going?" Mrs. Davis shouts.
"I'm going too!" Andy doesn't stop to answer.
Mr. Gibbs stops backing up as Andy approaches and unlocks the door for him. Andy wastes no time jumping inside. The two head off. Mrs. Davis watches until they're out of sight. She turns to Hailey.
"If you can't walk home, you can call your parents from inside," Mrs. Davis offers.
Hailey blinks her way back to reality.
"I can walk," Hailey assures before taking off.
Mrs. Davis watches her leave as well before heading inside the Gibbses house with Molly. Mr. Gibbs drives over the speed limit, but not way over to cause problems with other vehicles. He doesn't say anything, and Andy isn't sure if he should either. So many thoughts are crossing through his mind. Are Mary and Mrs. Gibbs, okay? What if they aren't? It looked bad with the parents so worried and they had to go to the hospital. He doesn't want negative, dark thoughts to enter but he can't help them from coming. What if that's the last thing he did with Mary? Fight. Tears begin flooding over. The car ride remains silent the whole way. Andy isn't sure if it would have been better or worse for either of them to have spoken up.
The first thing Mary notices is the pain. Then confusion. Why is she in so much pain? It takes some work to get her eyes to function. That's when white takes over. The machine beeping beside her catches her attention next. Is she in the hospital? What happened? There's movement beside the bed.
"Hey Mary," her father's voice is weak.
He tries to smile but doesn't manage to.
"I'll be right back," a nurse announces, leaving the room.
Mary hadn't even noticed her.
"W-Why," Mary clears her throat. "Why am I here?"
"You're going to be okay," Mr. Gibbs reassures, grabbing her hand.
Mary notices him slightly shaking.
"Do you need some water?"
Mary nods. Mr. Gibbs grabs a cup from the table beside her bed and helps her take a few small sips. The nurse returns with an officer. Mary panics and tries to sit up unsuccessfully. She groans from the pain.
"Calm down Mary," Mr. Gibbs voices.
"Please stay down until your body recovers," the nurse instructs.
A doctor walks into the room.
"How are you feeling Mary?" the doctor inquires.
"I'm in a lot of pain… and nervous," Mary eyes the officer.
"Don't worry you aren't in trouble," the doctor assures. "Can you tell me about where your pain is?"
The doctor seems to be checking on other things like her eyes with a light as he listens to her. The nurse writes some stuff down in a chart.
"My back and legs," Mary informs.
The doctor moves the sheet out of the way. He feels around her legs and down her foot. The doctor pauses.
"Can you feel this, Mary?" he wonders.
Mary's eyes widen when she shakes her head.
"How about this?"
Again, she shakes her head.
"Okay, I'd like to run some more tests. Let's not stress until we get some results, alright?" the doctor looks to Mary.
She nods. Then notices the officer is writing some stuff down too and worries again. He finally looks up at her.
"I'd like to ask you some questions if you feel up to it," the officer starts off.
"Okay," Mary gives her permission.
Mr. Gibbs does as well.
"Do you know why you're in the hospital?" the officer begins.
Mary thinks about it for a moment but shakes her head.
"Do you remember what happened yesterday? Saturday," the officer guides.
"It's Sunday?" Mary sidetracks.
"Yes, early Sunday morning. Do you remember anything from yesterday evening?" the officer refocuses her attention.
Mary thinks again. Saturday. That's usually movie night with Andy. Did something happen during the movie? She fainted or something? No wait. Andy couldn't do movie night. He cancelled their plans to go on a date. She was at home last night.
"I was at home last night…" Mary recalls.
The officer nods.
"Your father said you went to the store," the officer prompts.
"Yeah, we were going to get flour and… ice cream. We walked around the store and… I don't remember anything else. Mama, she…" Mary realizes her mom isn't here. Is she hurt too. "Where is my mom?"
No one seems to want to answer her. Her father looks at the others and nods. He comes even closer and gives her hand a squeeze.
"You got in an accident. You were both rushed to the hospital but… your mom died in surgery," Mr. Gibbs starts to tear up again.
Mary's face scrunches up in confusion. She shakes her head. No, that isn't right. Her mother is fine! But tears are pouring out of her face, and she can't speak. The doctor, nurse, and officer give the two of them some space. They're alone for a while before her physical pain becomes increasingly worse. The doctor returns and gives her some pain medication.
"Andy is here. He's been waiting all night with me. Do you want to see him?" her father discloses.
Mary thinks about it.
"I'm too tired. I just want to sleep," Mary denies.
"You sure?"
But he can see her heavy eyes losing the battle to stay awake.
"Okay. Maybe later."
"Will you stay with me?"
"Of course, sweetie. You get some sleep. I'll be here," her father promises with a kiss on her forehead.
The medication finally knocks her out.
Turns out her pain and lack of movement is from an incomplete spinal cord injury. The doctors (more are assigned to her case) feel hopeful that she'll walk again with time and therapy. For now, she's confined to a wheelchair. Frankly trying to understand it all is overwhelming, especially when her thoughts are overrun by her mother.
Mary, along with the others that stayed home, learn that they were hit by a drunk driver. He also died in the crash. Mary didn't want to learn more about him. Not when he took her mother's life. As the days go by, Mary is able to remember their last conversation. She writes it down so she will never forget. Not that she thinks that's possible after what happened.
After a few days, she's able to return home. She cries again with the rest of her family. Mary misses school that entire week. That Thursday, the 17th, is a hard day for the Gibbs household. It would have been Sofia's birthday. Not that any day since her death has been bearable.
Mary also doesn't see Andy. Even when he tries coming over. Though he still drops off her homework. Saturday, a week after the tragic accident, Andy comes over again.
"Hi Mr. Gibbs, I don't want to be rude, but I'm not taking "no" for an answer this time," Andy determines.
Mr. Gibbs hesitates but eventually gives in.
"Mary, Andy is here to see you," Mr. Gibbs opens the door wider.
Andy walks in and sees Mary on the couch. Her wheelchair is off to the side.
"Dad," Mary's eyes widen in betrayal.
"I have to run an errand. Andy can stay and help if you need anything," Mr. Gibbs continues.
"I don't need a babysitter," Mary grumbles.
"But you might need help with your siblings. I'm only taking Elena with me," Mr. Gibbs doesn't budge.
Mary nods. Mr. Gibbs comes over to give her a kiss on the forehead.
"Traitor," Mary whispers.
"Love you too," Mr. Gibbs smiles widely.
He takes Elena and leaves. Andy slowly approaches the couch where Mary goes back to doing homework.
"You're actually doing homework?" Andy notices.
"You keep bringing me a ton," Mary doesn't look up.
"Yeah, but the teachers would understand if you waited longer with…"
Mary stops.
"I'm sorry that was insensitive," Andy apologizes and takes a seat in front of her on the coffee table. "I'm not sure what to say. Actually, I have so much to say. I just don't know what you want to hear."
He looks up to see Mary crying.
"M," Andy expends his empathy and tries not to cry too.
Mary leans forward and pulls Andy closer so she can hug him. She shakes as she cries into his shoulder. Andy rubs her back soothingly and lets her cry for as long as she wants. After some time, Mary pulls back and the two continue to talk.
"Sorry I've been ignoring you. I just couldn't handle your company to be honest, it's nothing personal against you. I didn't want to see anyone," Mary explains.
"You don't need to apologize. I remember the feeling. I'm not the one you wish would walk through the door," Andy understands.
Mary nods with a sad smile.
"I hate that you know this feeling," Mary shares.
"I hate it for us both. So, probably another insensitive question but, your injury will you…"
"…be able to walk again?"
Andy nods. Mary sighs.
"The doctors think so. It's only a minor injury considering. I'll start physical therapy after school."
"You're going back Tuesday?"
"Yeah. I'll try to anyway. Though I probably won't be all mentally there."
"Are you sure you're ready?"
"I think so. It'll just be an adjustment physically."
"I'll help you! And classes we don't have together, I'm sure our friends are more than willing to help! And I'll even take you to classes you have no one in with," Andy volunteers.
"I know you will, thanks. Speaking of, does everyone in school know what happened?"
"I don't think so. I told our friends; they were worried when you were gone for a couple days. There are rumors going around though. Hailey told people you were in a bad accident."
"Oh…"
"I didn't tell her anything!" Andy quickly defends. "She was there when we got the call."
"During your date?"
"We actually hadn't even left my house yet."
Mary nods.
"This seems petty, but… are you still mad I cancelled our plans. If I had stuck to our movie night you wouldn't have left and–"
Tears prevent Andy from finishing. Mary pulls him in again for a hug. Fresh tears coat her cheek as well.
"I don't blame you Andy, not one bit. You can't blame yourself either, okay?"
Andy nods. Mary pulls away once they've calmed down again.
"Now, help me with math so I can get this over with," Mary lightens the mood.
Andy ends up catching Mary up on all her homework. A second movie night is abandoned. Mary doesn't bring it up, and Andy isn't sure it'd be right of him to. Sunday rolls around, Mary sleeps most of the day. Monday, being a holiday, is a day off school. The two hang out for a little bit. They watch TV on the couch. Later that night, Mary is looking through the pantry when she sees a bag of flour. Her shaking hand grabs it to confirm the contents. New tears threaten to drop. Mary knew deep down she wasn't to blame for her mother's death, but how do you tell that to a little girl whose mom only was in that situation to make her happy?
February 22nd, 2005, Tuesday
It takes some effort to get Mary in and out of the car. Luckily, her dad is able to pick her up. Once back in her wheelchair at school, Mary can't help but notice the people watching her.
"Will you be okay? I can take you to your first class if you want," Mr. Gibbs offers.
"That's okay. Andy and I have the same schedule today. He said he'd take me to all my classes," Mary declines.
"You sure?" Mr. Gibbs turns to Andy.
"Positive. I'll take care of her," Andy promises.
"Okay, call me if you need anything. Or have the school call if you need to go home early. Go to the nurse if your pain gets too much and–" her father starts spiraling.
"I will dad," Mary stops him. "I'll be fine."
Mr. Gibbs finally leaves. Andy pushes Mary's wheelchair. She tries to ignore all the stares. They stop when they come to some stairs.
"I'm not sure I can lift you up these," Andy guesses.
"As much as I'd love to see you attempt to show off your "impressive" muscles. You could take the ramp," Mary gestures.
Andy awkwardly laughs and takes the small detour.
"Right, sorry. Probably should pay attention to those.
"Maybe," Mary laughs.
They arrive at their Spanish class without incident. The teacher wants to talk to her before class. Since the teachers and other school staff are aware of her situation, they were able to make some adjustments. They brought in a small desk without an attached chair for all of her classes. It's placed closest to the door, not where she usually sits. Andy insists on moving seats to be next to her. The teacher doesn't argue.
For PE, Mary sits in the library and writes about the history of frisbee golf, what the leg-able students are playing this week.
"It was awful," Mary recounts to Andy as he pushes her to Beginning Drama.
"Are you going to have to do that every time?"
"Just this week. Once I've started doing exercises with my physical therapist the school athletic trainer is going to help me during PE," Mary divulges.
"Oh, and you're going after school today?"
"Yep. It'll be my first one. After my check-up."
Jordan and Lance greet her as she enters the room.
"Hey Mary! Where were you during PE?" Lance greets.
"Library. Writing a paper," Mary answers.
"Nerd," Jordan teases.
"She can't do PE idiot!" Andy fumes.
"Dude, I was joking," Jordan holds up his hands in defense.
"Don't joke about stuff like that!" Andy glares.
"Andy, it's fine," Mary places a hand on him to calm him down. "I know Jordan doesn't mean anything by it."
Andy relaxes.
"Sorry," Andy's jaw tightens.
"It's fine," Jordan accepts.
Once class starts everyone sits in a circle. This is normally done on the ground, but with Mary in a wheelchair, now they're all in chairs.
"Alright students, as you know our spring musical rehearsals will start tomorrow. Today is the last day to audition if you missed any days last week during lunch," the teacher reminds. "And remember, we're doing a Christmas Carol!"
"I think we have our Tiny Tim; you're not still scared to go on stage are you, Mary?" Zack laughs.
Andy stands immediately from his chair.
"You want to say that again?" Andy warns in a raised voice.
"Andy," Mary tries to get him to sit back down.
"Andy, please sit back down," the teacher addresses. "Zack, that was highly inappropriate, apologize."
"Sorry Mary," Zack tilts his head, his eyes and lips showing no remorse. "You know I was kidding, right?"
Mary nods.
"Zack, go to the office," the teacher directs.
"I said I was sorry!" Zack points out defensively.
"Go now before you get yourself in worse trouble," the teacher demands.
Zack gets out with an angered expression and leaves the room.
"I'm sorry about that Mary," the teacher apologizes for him. "And know if any one of you acts like that to another student there will be consequences. Now, I'm going to go deal with that in the office. Everyone decide how they will help out for the school play if you're not auditioning for a role."
The teacher leaves. Andy is finally able to sit back down.
"Are you okay Mary?" Andy turns to her.
"I'm fine. Are you okay? That's the second time you've exploded on someone," Mary shows concern.
"I'm fine," Andy grits his teeth. "I'm going to the bathroom if Ms. Fishner asks."
Andy leaves the classroom. Mary blinks in confusion.
"You know he cares," Lance speaks up from her other side.
Jordan moves his chair to be directly in front of Mary.
"He just blames himself," Jordan adds.
"That idiot. I told him not to!" Mary sighs.
"It was really scary for him. Not to diminish what you went through, but Andy was terrified. When his mom got the call that you were in an accident, he didn't know what to think," Jordan shares.
"He didn't know if you were alive," Lance emphasizes.
"Andy was scared you died while you two were fighting. He wished he could take back what happened over anything."
"He went with your dad to the hospital after the call. He waited all night to hear the news. When they heard your mom didn't make it, he cried and got even more scared of what it meant for you. Then the doctors said you would make it."
"He cried again. And waited. Even after you said you were too tired to see him. He stayed until his mother came Sunday night to take him home."
"Then he heard you were paralyzed and blamed himself all over again. He wasn't at school on Monday. And when you still didn't return Tuesday, we asked what happened. Andy cried during the whole story."
It felt like she was hit in the chest.
"Oh Andy," Mary almost cries.
"He may not have gone through what you did, but he's still in pain," Jordan concludes.
"Thanks for telling me," Mary smiles. "He's such an idiot, he would never tell me."
"Of course," Lance nods.
Andy returns and sits back down.
"Sorry for my outbursts," Andy apologizes.
"It's okay. I forget this is hard on you too. I'd react the same if someone was talking bad about my best friend," Mary smiles encouragingly.
"I just hate people saying things when they don't understand."
"Just try to ignore them, like you said, they don't understand."
"But didn't it hurt to hear Zack say that?"
"Sure, but Zack is an idiot. Plus, I am crippled now," Mary teases.
"Yeah, but Tiny Tim could still walk," Andy jokes back.
Mary lovingly punches his arm.
"Will you be okay not auditioning?" Andy wonders.
"I'll be okay. It'll give me time to work on my confidence for the fall."
"You're going to do drama again?"
"I think so."
"Not me."
"Good. I'll do so much better without you holding me back," Mary sticks out her tongue.
"Cute you two," Lance rolls his eyes.
"Hey, Mary," Jordan interrupts. "Is your dad picking you up?"
"Yeah, why?" Mary confirms.
"Just wondering how you'll get to the parking lot. Isn't your tutorial pretty far?" Jordan remembers.
Mary tilts her head in confusion. Wouldn't Andy just take her?
"Did you forget we have a baseball game today?" Jordan adds.
Mary's eyes widen as she turns to Andy. She did forget. Andy rubs the back of his neck nervously.
"I was going to quit the team," Andy shocks them.
"What?!" Jordan nearly falls out of his chair.
"Quit the team?" Mary puzzles.
Lance is silent but equally shocked.
"Why would you quit?" Mary questions.
"I just have too much to do," Andy shrugs.
"You made varsity," Jordan deadpans. "You couldn't stop talking about wanting to be on varsity for weeks!"
"Months," Lance corrects.
Mary processes the information and comes to a certain conclusion.
"Maybe you two should take a lap," Mary suggests.
"What are we in? PE?" Jordan appalls.
Mary gives him a look.
"I'm gonna stretch my legs. Coming Lance?" Jordan changes his mind.
"Coming," Lance stands too.
Andy avoids her gaze once the others leave.
"Are you quitting for me?" Mary guesses.
Andy's eyes scrunch up, still not looking up.
"W-What? No," Andy denies.
"Andy," Mary doesn't believe him.
Andy sighs.
"I just want you to have as much support as you need. The thought of not being for you again if you need me…"
Mary grabs his hand.
"I'll be okay. You don't have to be the only one that helps me out. I'll ask Lauren to take me to the baseball field. She wanted to go to the game anyway."
"Can you? Shouldn't you call your dad? He'll get worried. Why would you come? You should go home and rest," Andy speaks quickly.
"I'll text my dad. He'll be fine with it. And of course, I'm not missing your first game. Now, no more of this quitter talk."
"Since when do you get to boss me around? Just because you can't walk now?"
"Since forever actually."
Mary manages to get to Andy's game easily with the help of Lauren. Christopher, Lance, and April watch as well. Andy and Jordan play very well and help the team win.
Sofia's funeral is two weeks after her passing. Her parents come up from Mexico to attend. All of Mary's friends come in support as well. Andy insists on pushing Mary's wheelchair the whole day and never leaves her side.
As the days, weeks, and months go by, Mary continues her physical therapy, but progress is slow. There are times when Mary wants to give up on walking, just accept she'll be confined to a chair for the rest of her life. Andy acknowledges there's nothing wrong with that, but it's much too soon for Mary to give up. Dealing with her significant loss contributes to the lack of motivation. When you haven't been through the situation, it's impossible to truly understand and describe the pain.
Mary thinks about her mother every day. Misses her every day. Plays videos of her every day. She starts seeing someone professional to talk to. Sophomore year comes to an end.
As tradition, they go to the carnival, but being in a wheelchair limits their ability to do much. They spend time in the town as well. When she's not hanging out with her friends, Mary spends her time working on walking again.
August 23rd, 2005, Tuesday
Late morning, Andy is sitting on his steps. Mary is in her chair next to him. They're enjoying the nice, unusual breeze as they soak up the sun. Andy has his eyes closed.
"Are you sure?" Mary inquires.
"Yes," Andy replies without opening his eyes.
"Really sure?" Mary stresses.
"Yes M," Andy lightly laughs.
"But I'm in a wheelchair–"
"What?!" Andy eyes pop open. "You didn't tell me that!"
"Andddd… it might make things harder for your big day."
"I don't care. You're my best friend. You're coming with us," Andy determines.
"You're stubborn now that you're so old."
Andy hits my shoulder lightly. Mary laughs. Jordan's mother pulls up and drops him off.
"Dude!" Jordan greets. "Did you pass?"
Andy grins widely.
"I'm now a legal driver," Andy confirms.
"Sweet! Show me."
"No way!" Andy protests.
"Why not?!"
"He's embarrassed by his picture," Mary rolls her eyes.
"So?! That's what makes it better! You've seen mine," Jordan points out.
"That was your own fault," Andy shrugs.
"I'll steal it one of these times," Jordan narrows his eyes.
"Good luck," Andy wishes.
Christopher and Lance arrive shortly after. Mrs. Davis shuts the door behind her and Molly.
"Are we all set?" Mrs. Davis looks at everyone.
"All set," Andy nods.
"No one needs to go to the bathroom before? It's a long drive and I'd rather not stop if I don't have to on the way," Mrs. Davis voices.
Everyone shakes their head.
"Do you have the snacks?" Andy remembers.
"I left them on the counter. I'll grab them and pull the car out. Can you take Molly next door?" Mrs. Davis decides, going back inside.
"Can I have a ride, Mary?" Molly jumps up and down.
"Sure," Mary smiles.
Molly hops onto her lap, her backpack lightly hitting Mary in the face. Mary playfully moans.
"Did you grow since last time?" Mary teases as she makes her way down the driveway.
Molly laughs.
"No!"
Andy watches her with a smile. His careful eyes make sure she has no problem getting down to the street. Unsurprisingly, no cars pass by on their quiet street. That makes her pathway clear. She pauses once in front of her driveway. It takes a few tries to get over the slight curb. Andy stands to help, but before he can take a step, Mary manages to make it over. The slight jolt makes Molly laugh again.
"Again!" Molly pleads.
"I still haven't obtained any upper body strength! Just once knocked me out," Mary shakes her head.
"Dude," Jordan interjects Andy's thoughts.
"What?" Andy notices all his friends are staring at him.
"Overprotective much?" Lance contributes. "If you're so worried maybe you shouldn't have invited her."
"Mary and I always spend our birthdays together," Andy states plainly. "I'm not missing out just because she's in a wheelchair and things might be harder for us."
"Mhm, that's the reason," Chris mumbles.
"What was that?" Andy questions.
"I'll tell you when you're grown up," Chris relays.
Andy rolls his eyes.
"Not more jokes about the two of us. We're just friends," Andy concretes.
"We know," Jordan wraps his arm around Andy. "But when we're right, we get to tell you we told you so."
"It was awfully admirable of you to put Mary before yourself after the accident. Even dumping Hailey," Lance smirks.
"Okay I didn't "dump" Hailey. We never actually went on a date. Mary needed me and Hailey didn't understand that," Andy reasons.
"It's been six months, I think Mary will be okay if you're not constantly hovering over her," Chris mentions.
"I'm not hovering over–"
"Limbs burning! Someone please help!" Mary dramatically requests as she makes her way up the driveway.
Andy immediately leaves the conversation to help her. Instead of being practical, Andy grabs her hands and starts pulling her up the driveway. The two of them burst into laughter when Andy nearly lets go of Mary, causing her to move slightly back.
"They're hopeless," Jordan shakes his head.
Chris and Lance both shake their heads as well.
Mrs. Davis pulls out of the driveway. Chris and Lance take the back seat. Jordan, Andy, and Mary sit in the middle row. Mrs. Davis listens to some tunes while the five teens talk amongst themselves. The drive is long in traffic but eventually the group gets to their destination, Dodgers Stadium.
"This is the best birthday ever," Andy gazes up at the large stadium.
Mary laughs.
"It's definitely the biggest so far," Mary agrees.
"I'm glad you came, even though you don't particularly like baseball," Andy admits.
"It's not that I don't like baseball, it's just hockey is so much more exciting and violent," Mary corrects.
"Then maybe we'll go to that."
"We should. Busy right now?"
"Just a little."
The group finds their seats in the stadium. They're in the top row in their section, due to Mary's need for a disability spot. However, since their section is around the middle, they still have a nice view. The players come out shortly to warm-up. The game starts a little after seven. First inning no one scores. The second, Colorado Rockies score one while Dodgers get three. Nothing in the third. Mary starts getting cold. She pulls a folded-up blanket from behind her.
"Well that's nice," Andy notices from beside her.
Andy is on her left. Mrs. Davis is on her right.
"Finally, an advantage to being in this chair," Mary smiles. "Able to keep warm."
She wraps it nice and tight around herself.
"Warm now?" Andy inquires.
"Except my ears. But it's fine."
Andy shakes his head with a smile on his face. He takes off his beanie and hands it to her. Mary beams and places it on her head.
"I honestly don't know why I haven't stolen some of your beanies from you."
"You have my red one."
"I told you I gave it back to you!"
"And yet, I can't find it anywhere."
"Not my fault if you lose your stuff," Mary laughs.
"Lost, got stolen," Andy holds his hands out as if weighing them.
Mary hits his arm.
"Lost," Mary clarifies. "But maybe I better keep this one, so it doesn't get lost either."
"No way! The blue is my favorite!"
"Too bad."
The Dodgers end up winning the game 8-3. It's late when the group heads back home. Mrs. Davis emphasizes that they sleep on the way back since their first day of school starts the following day. Jordan, Lance, and Chris fall asleep easily. Even with Chris snoring up a storm.
Andy and Mary try not to laugh too loudly. But they can't help but turn around to watch their friend.
"You weren't kidding. How does anyone sleep with that noise?" Mary laughs.
"The three of us are used to it by now. But I don't think you'll be able to catch a wink."
Mary holds out her hand.
"Again?"
"Again!"
Andy takes out his wallet and hands Mary his driver's license. She giggles.
"I love this."
"Because I hate it? Not nice."
"I'd frame it."
"Hey, you can't keep it. I need it to drive."
"Aww," Mary pouts. "But it's my favorite picture of you."
"Just wait until your picture. I'm going to make fun of it too."
"If I ever drive."
"When you drive."
"When I get my license, my picture is going to be flawless."
"I'll believe it when I see it."
Despite the obnoxious snoring, Mary becomes sleepy. Her head leans on Andy's shoulder as she falls asleep. Andy smiles and rests his head on hers.
Back at the Davis resident, the three boys get picked up by their parents. Mrs. Davis goes inside while Andy walks Mary to her door. Andy goes to knock on the door.
"Wait," Mary stops him.
"What?" Andy turns.
"Help me up the step."
"I can't lift your chair. Your dad will be able to."
"Just give me your hand," Mary reaches out.
Confused, Andy steps forward and grabs her hand. Mary holds it tightly and grabs his hand with her left hand as well. Both hands are gripping tightly. Mary leans forward. Andy's eyes widen as Mary lifts herself up to stand. Her legs shake but she's standing!
"Oh my gosh Mary!" Andy exclaims. "You're standing!"
Mary grins.
"I can walk a couple steps too," Mary adds.
"Well show me!"
Mary switches her grip so she one hand in each of Andy's. She takes two steps before nearly crumbling. Andy helps her sit back down.
"Like I said, only a couple steps," Mary laughs.
"Still, that was incredible! Definitely the best birthday gift I could have asked for."
"Oh, good because I actually didn't have time to get you anything."
"How long have you been able to move?"
"Stand? A couple weeks. Walk? A couple days. I didn't want to tell you until I got a little better."
"You'll be back to your old self in no time."
"I can actually believe that. Hopefully before the play."
"You're auditioning?"
"Something small. You going to come see me?"
"Opening night for sure."
"Or you could be in it. Not too late to switch to advanced drama."
"No way!"
The two laugh until Mr. Gibbs hears the commotion and opens the front door.
August 24, 2005, Wednesday
Andy drives himself and Mary to school. He parks in the student lot. He helps Mary stand then sit down in her chair.
"Excited?"
"For junior year?" Mary ascertains.
"What else?"
"I'm excited for you to drive me everywhere."
"I love driving my own car. So happy my mom got that promotion."
"Lucky you. You and your mom getting a new car. I'm never going to get my own."
"Until your siblings drive you will."
"True."
Andy pushes Mary through the school. They find Jordan, Lance, April, and Lauren mingling at a table by the lockers.
"Morning you two!" Lauren welcomes enthusiastically.
"Morning Lauren, Jordan, Lance, and April. How are you?" Mary returns.
"Tired," Jordan yawns.
"How? You slept the whole way back," Andy jokes.
"I need tons of sleep! It took me a while to fall back sleep once I got home."
"You poor baby," Lauren teases.
Jordan sticks out his tongue. Lauren follows suit.
"Those two," Mary whispers to Andy.
Andy laughs quietly.
"And they say we like each other."
Mary laughs awkwardly.
"Yeah…"
For her birthday, Mary has a small party on Friday after school with her friends. They come over, play board games, watch movies, and eat lots of junk food. April and Lauren stay the night for a spa sleepover. Her walking improves, but Mary still can't get very far. The following day, Andy comes over.
Mary is the one to answer the door.
"Hey Andy, what's up?"
"Yesterday got me thinking, and I was wondering if you wanted to start up movie night again."
That takes the breath out of her lungs.
"I know last time we were supposed to have it was the worst day ever. But I miss them. It may be too much, but I'd love to try."
Mary thinks about it, nodding in thought.
"Okay. Sounds fun. I miss them too."
"Great! I have the perfect movie. I'll see you tonight? I'll come over to get you."
"Alright. I'll see you then."
Andy turns and jogs across his lawn.
"Wait! What letter are we on? I need to get snacks!" Mary shouts.
The two of them start up movie night again. They attend most of the football games. By the end of October, Mary can walk pretty much on her own. She can get tired easily, so she does have to sit more often. Andy plays on the varsity team. Mary wears his jersey on game day. And Lauren wears Jordan's… interesting.
Mary plays Lady Capulet in the school play of Romeo and Juliet. By January, Mary can walk as if the accident never happened. When she isn't spending all her free time working on her recovery, she's practicing for her spring musical audition.
January 16th, 2006, Monday
Mary is pacing back and forth at lunch, running the lyrics in her mind. She even hums to herself at times.
"Do you think we should intervene?" Lance suggests.
"At this point I'm not sure there's much we can do," Lauren sighs. "Might be best to just let it play out."
"So weird thinking of Mary being in a musical. I didn't even know she could sing," Chris watches her.
"You know, me neither. Well, car singing but I feel that's different," Andy realizes.
"Don't you want us to give you input before your audition?" April speaks up.
"I'm already nervous as it is," Mary stops her pacing to answer.
"But you can sing, right?" Jordan makes sure.
"My parents always said I have a beautiful voice. You know how parents are though. I know I'm capable of singing well at least. I've just always gotten so nervous about singing in front of others," Mary informs.
"But you won't be nervous now?" Lance wonders.
"I've been working on my confidence. I know I can do this…" Mary pauses. "But maybe you guys could come to my audition?"
"Are we allowed to?" Chris figures
"Yeah, as long as you're not disruptive," Mary approves. "I only really need someone in the audience today."
"Is today the singing?" Andy questions.
Mary nods.
"I'll be there," Andy promises.
All five of them sit in the seats in the auditorium after school. They sit towards the top so the students auditioning can focus. Students auditioning sit in the front few rows. Mary twiddles her thumbs as the nerves truly sink in. The director, and drama teacher, stands from about the middle of the seats. She has a makeshift table in front of her with papers and pens occupying the space.
"Attention students, thank you all for auditioning. As you should know, today will be the first round with singing. I asked that you choose a song you think fits your voice and it be from a musical or adaptation. You will sing the whole song unless I stop you for any reason, so try to pay attention if I raise my hand. Once I call your number please take your place on the stage, say your name, grade, and which song you will be singing. Give a thumbs up to the sound techs so they can start your music when you're ready. And remember, we're here to support each other. If there is to be any helpful criticism to be said, it will come from me and only me. I ask that you stay for everyone's audition even if you have gone, except if you truly need to leave," Mrs. Fishner addresses. "Now with that I think we're ready to begin. We'll start with one when you're ready."
Mrs. Fishner sits back down and readies her papers. A sophomore boy steps onto the stage. One after another sings a song they selected. Most do really well. Some, Andy hopes, only sing to get into the play and will take on non-singing roles or the chorus. Though none are too terrible. Mary told him earlier that singing isn't a requirement if you want a non-singing role. Mary finally takes the stage.
"My name is Mary Gibbs," Mary speaks hesitantly into the microphone. "I'm a junior and I'll be singing Beautiful Ghosts sung in the Cats adaptation film."
Mrs. Fishner finds her paper and nods that Mary may continue. She takes a deep breath to calm herself. No one down below seems to be paying attention or the least interested. Andy bites his lips, hoping she can do this. Locking herself in her room is one thing, this is so unlike Mary. Finally, Mary gives the stagehands a thumbs up. The light music cues.
(NOTE: commas and periods signify pauses. Multiple dots mean the note on that word is stretched out. Highly recommend listening to Beautiful Ghosts sung by Taylor Swift to understand how it's supposed to sound.)
"Follow me home, if you dare to," Mary starts quieter. Her head is tilted down slightly. "I wouldn't know, where to lead you. Should I take chances, when no one took chances on me? So I watch from the dark wait for my life to start with no beauty in my memory…"
Her head looks up, her eyes seemingly more confident. Her voice no longer waivers. The students watch surprised.
"All that I wanted, was to be wanted. Too young to wander London streets alone and haunted. Born into nothing, at least you have something, something to cling to. Visions of dazzling rooms I'll never get let into. And the memories were lost long ago, but at least you have beautiful ghosts. Perilous night, their voices calling. A flicker of light, before the dawning. Out here the wild ones, are taming the fear within me scared to call them my friends and be broken again is this hope just a mystical dream? All that I wanted, was to be wanted. Too young to wander London streets alone and haunted. Born into nothing, at least you have something, something to cling to. Visions of dazzling rooms I'll never get let into. And the memories were lost long ago, but at least you have beautiful ghosts."
Her friends are amazed. Chris even has his jaw dropped. Andy is the only one capable of smiling. Though he confessed to never hearing her sing, that wasn't entirely true. Mary practiced so much that there were times she forgot to close her window. Though, he was surprised the first time he heard it. Andy didn't want to embarrass or frighten her with his unapproved listening sessions. He made sure to keep encouraging her so others would hear her amazing voice. As the music picks up, Mary's voice becomes stronger.
"And so maybe my home isn't what I had known what I thought it would be. But I feel so alive with these phantoms of night and I know that this life isn't safe but it's wild and it's free…"
Some of the students are standing at this point and cheering. They stop themselves shortly.
"All that I wanted, was to be wanted. I'll never wander London streets alone and haunted. Born into nothing, with them I have something, something to cling to. I never knew I'd love this world they've let me into. And the memories were lost long ago. So I'll dance with these beautiful ghosts. And the memories were lost long ago. So I'll dance with these beautiful ghosts…"
Most of the students, if not all, are standing and clapping. Mary sheepishly takes a bow and steps off the stage. Chris' jaw is still dropped.
"I'm sorry, who was that?" Jordan comes to his senses.
"She can sing, sing," Lauren notes.
"She'll definitely get an adequate role," April determines.
After everyone finishes singing, Mary meets up with her friends. They shower her with compliments.
"What role did you get?" Lance inquires.
"I don't know yet. We have speaking auditions tomorrow then dancing the day after. Then callbacks if needed," Mary explains.
"Dance?" Chris puzzles.
"Just basic choreographs. To make sure we're able of moving and learning simple things," Mary concurs.
"What musical are you doing again?" Jordan asks.
"The Little Mermaid," Mary smiles.
"Oh I love it! Who are you hoping to get?" Lauren beams.
"Not sure. I'd be happy with one of the sisters. Maybe Carlotta but that may be a reach," Mary ponders.
"A reach? Go for the lead! Be our Ariel!" Lauren exclaims.
Mary laughs.
"Ariel will go to one of the seniors. They're much better," Mary waves it off.
"But she's your favorite princess," Andy divulges. "Wouldn't you rather play her?"
"Sure," Mary shrugs. "Who wouldn't? But I'll be happy with whatever role I get. I'm not expecting to get the lead."
Her friends leave it alone after that. They know she's right. It would make sense for the lead to go to a senior. Besides, being in the play is all that matters. They're proud of Mary for being in the musical in the first place.
Mary's friends continue to support her, but they don't attend any of the other audition rehearsals. Modest Mary reports that she did her best and hopefully it's enough. It's more than enough.
January 20th, 2006, Friday
Mary checks her phone for the time. Again.
"You know it isn't time yet. You're just torturing yourself," Andy pauses from eating his sandwich.
"I can't help it! Time is going by so slowly," Mary whines.
"Let's hope she doesn't get any role so this can be done with," Chris mumbles.
"Hey!" Mary stands in protest.
"I was just kidding!" Chris laughs awkwardly. "You'll be fine."
"Yeah, so don't worry about it. Why don't we head over now?" Lauren suggests. "Maybe the walk will help get rid of those nerves."
"I guess. You don't have to come with me though," Mary agrees.
"Where else would we be? Waiting here like bad friends?" Andy shakes his head. "Let's go now."
Andy stands, causing the others to follow. They begin to walk off when they notice Mary frozen in place.
"Um?" Lance presses.
"I'm too nervous," Mary bites her lip.
"Oh for the love of…" Andy grabs her wrist and drags her with them.
They take the long way to the drama room, where the cast listing is going to be put up. There's a sea of people by the time they get there. Mrs. Fishner arrives shortly with a paper in her hand. She maneuvers through the students to her door. She tapes it to the door before stepping aside for the students to look at.
"I'll go up alone since there's so many people," Mary volunteers.
"You sure?" Andy worries.
Mary nods before making her way through the front. The others watch as her eyes gaze at the paper. Mary turns to Mrs. Fishner and seems to be asking her something. The teacher nods and places a hand on her shoulder.
"Uh oh," Jordan voices.
"Doesn't look good," Lauren voices the same thought.
Mary makes her way back to the group. She doesn't seem to be breathing.
"Well?" Andy breaks the silence.
"I'm in the play," Mary blinks back into existence.
"That's great!" Lauren beams.
"I'm Ariel…" Mary continues.
"WHAT?!" Lauren explodes.
"Wow, congrats!" Jordan offers.
"Knew you had it in you," Lance smiles.
"That's so awesome! I'm so proud!" Andy sweeps her up in a hug.
He lifts her up and spins her around once before gently setting her back down.
"I think I'm gonna be sick," Mary laughs. "I still can't believe it. I had to ask Mrs. Fishner if it was accurate."
"Of course it is. Mrs. Fishner is always organized. Plus, she knows talent when she sees it," April assures.
"So princess of the seas… who's your prince?" Lauren raises her eyebrows suggestively.
"Oh um…" Mary thinks back to see if she remembers. "Sam. He's a senior."
"Oooo. A senior! How nice. Oh wait!" Lauren realizes. "Sam Daniels?"
Mary nods. Lauren squeals.
"You're so lucky. He's so hot! I'd kiss those lips!" Lauren phrases.
Mary turns slightly red. Andy isn't so sure he likes this train of thought.
"Isn't Sam a jerk?" Andy points out.
"Very obnoxious and full of himself. Pretty popular and I guess he can be a bit of a jerk at times," Mary lists off.
"Someone's been doing their homework," Lauren laughs. "Who cares what he's like. Anyone would kill to share the stage with that hunk."
"Can we stop drooling over this guy? I'm still hungry. I didn't get to finish my lunch," Jordan interjects.
"Yes, yes," Lauren waves him away. "You boys go eat. Mary, April, and I will be talking strategy."
Lauren whisks the two girls away.
"Strategy for what?!" Andy demands but receives no answer.
The following month is hard for Mary. Especially when the date of her mother's death rolls around. Luckily, her friends are very loving and help her through it. Baseball starts up and Mary can't make every game due to rehearsal. Spring flies by. With each passing week, Mary feels more prepared for the play. She's long accepted her role as Ariel and has done her best to give it justice at every step of the way.
April 21st, 2006, Friday
Members of the community gather in the Tri-County High School auditorium. They pack into the seats and enjoy conversation as they wait for the show. Andy, Jordan, Lance, Chris, April, and Lauren find a perfect spot in the middle, having gotten there early. Andy watches as students in the Orchestra set up their instruments and music sheets in the small pit in the front of the stage. The conductor converses with one of the students.
Andy looks at the clock, the show will be starting soon. He's anxious to watch. In the early days it was him that helped Mary run lines. But as time went on, they both got too busy.
"Uh oh," Lauren draws their attention.
She's looking down at her phone.
"What?" Jordan worries.
"Mary," Lauren sighs. "She says she doesn't know if she can go on. Apparently, she can't even be in the auditorium. She's on the field hoping I'll come rescue her, take her home."
"Does she say why?" Andy scrunches his eyebrows.
"Nope. Nerves I'm guessing. I should probably inform the understudy she might have to go on," Lauren goes to stand.
"Let me talk to her. Give me a few minutes," Andy requests.
"You better hurry," Lauren notices the time.
With a nod, Andy quickly stands and jogs to the field. Mary is sitting in the middle of the field, the one they come to lay on when they sneak out from time to time.
"Don't you have a show to be at?" Andy startles her.
Mary takes a breath.
"I needed some air."
Andy sits down next to her.
"What's wrong? Why don't you want to perform?"
"Lauren told you? I'm gonna kill her," Mary mumbles.
"And what? You thought I wouldn't notice when it wasn't you on stage?"
"I was hoping…"
"Are you scared?" Andy ventures.
Mary shrugs.
"What if I make a fool of myself? I don't deserve it!"
"Of course you do! Why would you think otherwise?"
Mary bites her bottom lip.
"Sam. He's been telling people I only got the role because of what happened to me. My mom and being paralyzed," Mary elaborates.
Andy turns his head momentarily so Mary can't see the angry expression on his face as he contemplates how to kill Sam.
"Is that true?"
"Probably."
"Mrs. Fishner told you that? Where did Sam get that idea?"
"Does it matter? It has to be true! There were better girls than me that didn't get the role."
"Mary that's crazy. You have to believe in yourself. And forget what Sam said."
"I can't!" Mary growls in frustration and stands.
She needs to pace to calm her nerves. Andy stands as well.
"If it is true, then that's exactly why you need to go out there."
"What?" Mary stops her pacing.
"Go out there and prove to them you deserve it. That you're Ariel and don't give them any room to doubt. Make Sam eat his words."
Mary still seems to hesitate.
"You worked so hard for this. Don't let an asshole like Sam ruin it."
"Maybe you're right… Oh gosh. I can't believe I have to kiss him… my first kiss too," Mary covers her eyes.
Andy's eyes widen.
"Your first kiss?"
"Yeah. You know I haven't kissed anyone before."
"Yeah but… I thought you two would have in rehearsal."
"Mrs. Fishner wanted us to save it for opening night. And I was hoping I'd kiss someone before now but… here we are."
"Just kiss anyone?" Andy teases.
"Anyone I care about! I know first kisses don't really matter in the scheme of life, but when I look back on my first kiss it'll be with someone I don't even like. It won't even be a real first kiss! It'll be a disappointment."
Mary's eyes widen.
"Not to mention I've never done it so what if I suck! What if I do it wrong in front of all those people?! I'll never live this down! I'll–"
But Andy interrupts her next thought. He had slowly moved closer until they were an arm's length away. Amongst her ranting, Andy pulled her closer by her arm and with his other hand used it to cup her cheek. He tilts her head until their lips meet.
On Mary's part, she's not sure what is happening, but she doesn't care. She closes her eyes and enjoys kissing Andy back. She savors every second, every moment of their lips touching, knowing the moment will be over soon. Andy pulls back with a smile.
"There, now I'll always be your first kiss."
Mary's face reddens. What does she say? Thank you? She settles for a nod. Too afraid of what could come out if she speaks.
"Will you come back and do the show? I really want to see you in it."
Mary nods again. Andy helps lead her back to the auditorium. They go their separate ways so Mary can change. Andy sits down in his seat. A few minutes later, Mary takes the stage. She's wearing a bright red wig and costume. It sparkles on the stage. Her smile shows no earlier fears. Every note is perfect, every movement graceful. Even the chemistry between Sam and Mary feels real. The audience loves the kiss at the end. Andy can't help but think his kiss with Mary was so much better.
Thank you so much for reading! Please review!
The baseball game is based off a real game. Hope the progression seems natural and isn't too slow. I want to build up the character's background before introducing other Monster Inc. and Toy Story type crossover.