A/N: Hi everyone! I'm so glad to be back with another update for you. Life was hectic there and I plan to have more writing time now. I think many of you are going to really like what happens here. I also want to say thank you to everyone reading and reviewing this story! Unfortunately, my email alerts stopped working for (not A03!) and I couldn't reply back. Then my alerts returned for a few days and stopped again. It's so irritating to have that happen when there is no reason for it.

Anyways, I wanted to respond to those of you who have reviewed, and I was unable to reply back.

Kim- I'm so glad you found my story! I love that feeling when finding a story, you didn't know you wanted it until you read it. It's the best. I hope you keep enjoying this fic!

WizMonCruWil- Lol. I already had that lovely moment plotted. We can certainly say that Monica's Mysterious Midnight Kisser was meant to happen regardless. As for if she knew if it was Chandler… I did purposely keep that vague, but it won't be the last time we hear about it. I have plans. Muhahaha! And Missy was horrible here. If she didn't say those things… he might have ended up being her make-out partner.

Newreader81- Thank you so much! The flashbacks are my favorite parts and I have so much to share still!

CaliforniaTexasNorthCarolina- I wish I had this done before Courteney Cox's birthday. Alas… it wasn't meant to be. Thank you for reading!

StarPotterTwilightHunger- Oo! Those are fantastic questions and theories. Only one way to find out… hee hee.

Statetech0- That is another interesting theory about what Monica might have experienced. I will only say that a misunderstanding plays a major role.

ClintonBush43Obama- Not at all! I think as shippers we ALL want to see our OTP go nuts with each other.

Katnibellamione- Nice observation and catch! Oh, there is so much about their past that has been unspoken. I love the BatB reference there! I promise we are going to get some insight in this chapter.

Camynicol5- Thank you so much! I promise it won't get too angsty, but we need a little angst now and then. I hope you enjoy the rest!

MarriedMatteney- The slow burn is going to be real, but I won't drag it out too much. Can't say much else but just wait! Forgiveness as a theme is going to play out. Another great batch of theories!

Guest- I just saw your reviews after I posted the chapter! I love that you love the twist I put in on her Midnight Mystery First Kiss. It was screaming for that change to happen and there is so much to explore with an AU like this. Hmm... does Monica know if it was Chandler? I do know the answer to that but you gotta wait. Sorry, not sorry! That is a good theory about what might have ended their friendship. Alas, I will need to keep you in suspense a tad longer.

And with everyone waiting for this… I'm sure this won't disappoint. 😉

Chapter 6

"Hey, Mon, do you wanna grab lunch? I have all these meetings today and will need all that food energy since my assistant has so graciously arranged them," he said, smirking.

"Sure. Although I have a feeling it wouldn't have happened if my boss did more work rather than goof around and 'lose' things," she retorted, complete with air quotes.

Chandler chuckled. "I'm telling you the office gremlins are real. No one seems to believe me."

"Uh-huh." She rolled her eyes teasingly. After punching a couple more keys, Monica stood. "Let's go."

It was moments like this that Chandler was glad for the second chance. He really did enjoy making her laugh and smile. It was even a rare and special treat to get the full-fledged Monica Geller laugh complete with snorts and all. But despite the good-naturedness between them, he wasn't an idiot. There was still a barrier between them. He didn't know when the time would come for them to talk about that elephant in the room, but he was okay with the current situation.

Especially since they were now taking their lunch breaks together when there was an opportunity. This was a step up from the previous breakroom coffee jaunts. Most often they would eat, taking turns at each other's desks while working. But when there was a moment that stepping away from the office altogether was possible… Chandler seized it.

Plus, it was easier to talk without anyone potentially eavesdropping. One of the things he wanted to assure Monica was the office's "unofficial" team bonding. While he did appreciate her defending him, he wasn't kidding when he told Howie he didn't mind joking at his expense. If Monica wanted to participate, then he wanted her to know he was okay with it. Hell, she probably had a whole arsenal to pick from. Of course, she was shocked he was encouraging it.

"You can't be serious."

"As a heart attack," he replied. "All I ask is you leave out the flock of seagulls hairdo."

She stared, blinking at him. "I don't understand… why?"

"To fit in. To be one of the gang. You know… office friends."

"I repeat again: I don't understand, why?"

"I know how it sounds or even looks, but I get the need to blow off steam. You should have seen me when I first started. I was bringing down the roof with my impressions of the suits. Sometimes you have to find the humor in the things that are boring."

"I get fostering a camaraderie, I do," she said slowly. "But…"

"Monica, this isn't high school or even college. I swear it's all right."

Her expression was anything but convincing as uneasiness flickered in her eyes.

"Do you want people thinking you're uncool for being friends with the boss?" he said jokingly.

Her face became clouded with anger. "I have friends already worth far more than some office jerks." She closed her eyes and took a deep breath before she fixed him with a look. "Chandler, despite our differences, I won't stoop so low to mock another person. Besides, if I do end up having one office friend, then I want it to be because we get along… not because of an impersonation."

That was the last time he brought it up to her. He hadn't expected the vehemence in her reaction to some lighthearted mockery. It was something he didn't think was a big deal (it was him that was the fodder), but he remembered how cruel some people could be towards her when he was in college. And, of course, her mother. Her refusal was more in response to her own personal experiences than sparing his actual feelings.

But to her credit, Chandler hadn't heard anymore jokes at his expense. Maybe Monica's dressing down was a reminder that the antics were too puerile. He didn't want to ask if that was why, so he took it as face value.

As he and Monica approached the elevator, she asked him where he wanted to go for lunch.

"How about we go to the dungeon?"

She lifted her brow. "Brasserie 8 ½ is not a dungeon."

"No but it's in the basement."

Rolling her eyes, Monica pushed the button to take them down. "I see your intimidation is gone now."

His eyes danced with mirth as they began their descent. Yes, she was right about that. The in-house upscale French restaurant was positively frightening for someone whose tastebuds saw spaghetti and meatballs as classy on its own. Not to mention the real terror that he could be eating snails and not even know it. Therefore, he never ventured into the restaurant… At least not until Monica expressed her curiosity to try it out and she made it worthwhile.

After all, she was able to explain exactly what the dishes were (and no… gastrique was not another name for snails). In fact, he was frankly in awe of her wealth of knowledge. He had always known this about her, but it was a joy to refamiliarize himself with this side of Monica. She would quite literally light up: her blue eyes would become this remarkable bright shade, her complexion flushed in pink hues, and her smile would stretch across her face as her hands became animated as she talked excitedly. And if her voice just happens to reach a very high decibel to that of a chattering monkey, then that was the quintessential impassioned Monica Geller.

It was the kind of passion that was envious that Chandler wished he could feel the same way about… anything. Lord knows, he didn't feel that way about school or work. Maybe the closest was the Knicks. Who was he kidding… it was figure skating, but that was a touchy subject that he would keep closely guarded even under the threat of death.

Nevertheless, he enjoyed listening to her and asking her questions. He especially enjoyed her colorful commentary on the presentation, taste, and ingredients. She would even give her input on what she would do differently if she was preparing it herself.

Again, there was no doubt in his mind that Monica was born to be a chef. The fact she wasn't snatched up was truly puzzling. Did any restaurant know what they were missing out on? It made absolutely no sense to him that she could be having this hard time in her job search. Any restaurant owner with half a brain should listen to her and her enthusiasm to know how lucky they would be to have someone with her caliber and expertise in their kitchen.

Even when he and Monica sat down and she right away launched into how he should try the blanquette de veau, Chandler could feel his lips twitching at her exuberance. Another good thing about them eating away from the office was that he could ask that question in his mind.

"So, uh, how is the job hunt going?"

The last thing he expected was the sudden change in her countenance as if she was doused with cold water. Her entire posture changed as she sagged against her chair.

"Well, to be honest, I haven't had much time to do a real hard search." She reached for her glass of water and took a long gulp. Exhaling, she explained the difficulty in finding time with the hours she had been putting in the office and the access to a computer to help with the search and typing out cover letters and the like. Before she was hired as his assistant, she was unable to afford to buy a computer and had to either borrow her brother's (if he wasn't in the middle of a paper or some other dinosaur project, which when was it not in use) or go to the library. The problem with the library was setting up an appointment time to use it and the time restrictions attached to it.

"I'm focusing on catching up on paying off my bills and everything, but as soon as that's done, then I can save up for a computer," she said. "In the meantime, I have compiled a list of possible restaurants and positions that are opened, but that's as far as I got."

It was on the tip of his tongue. Let me buy you a computer… But he knew that wouldn't be well-received if he made that suggestion. Let alone offering to loan her the money. He bit the inside of his cheek as he tried to think of a reasonable solution. Then it hit him.

Time… She needed time and a computer. Well, where was it possible to find those resources?

Clearing his throat, Chandler picked up his glass of water and swirled the ice cubes around in it as he kept his tone neutral. "I have a thought. I can run it by your boss but I'm sure he will agree with me that you have a perfectly good computer at your desk…"

"What?" she interrupted him.

He grinned from the side of his mouth. "I'm going to insist you use company time to fill out your applications and anything else you need to do in your job hunt."

She gaped at him. "Chandler, I-I couldn't…"

"Yes, you can. You're on it already. What's one more opened tab?" He shrugged nonchalantly.

"I don't know," Monica said. "Won't someone find out?"

Confidently, he shook his head. "Nope. I'll show you how I circumvent the firewalls so you can do that without raising suspicions."

"Wow. Do that a lot, huh?"

He chuckled. "How else can I starve off boredom? I've been doing it for years and if they haven't reprimanded me yet for looking at porn, then I'm doing something right."

Her nose wrinkled in disgust. "Seriously?"

"It's not always porn," he defended. "Sometimes it's online games."

xxXXxx

After lunch, Monica did agree to have him show her how he pulled it off. It only took him a few minutes to disable it and put up a blocker to hide her activities. She watched with an impressed look as she thanked him.

He was happy to oblige and was then directed by her to go back and do some work.

It was a fair trade as she was putting in a lot of effort to help his department work seamlessly. But he did warn her if he was silent for ten minutes then it was possible he died from sheer tediousness. She rolled her eyes and shooed him away with her hand.

Of course, he didn't, and the rest of the workday flew. Or as fast as it could with data analysis. Chandler didn't realize how late it was until Monica knocked on his door and let herself in.

"I wanted to let you know I filled out a couple job applications. Thank you again for showing me that trick."

He smirked. "No problem. You heading out?"

Monica nodded. "I am." Then she paused and glanced at him. "Do you have any plans this evening?"

Chandler's heart picked up. "Oh. Um, no. I-I don't."

She gave him a small smile. "If you want… Ross is meeting me at Tanner's Smith. Do you want to come with?"

This was momentous! Yes, they had left the office for lunch, but this was different. This was leaving the office and socializing. Actually, hanging out outside of work. And the fact she was the one who approached him about it! Okay, yes, her brother was included, but that didn't bother Chandler. He really did miss his former best friend and college roommate.

It would be good to see Ross.

And he was right. Ross was already there when they arrived, and despite the passage of time, Chandler spotted him immediately. Long gone was the afro and the hairy caterpillar he called a mustache. Instead, he had a much shorter hairdo, although it looked like it was getting longer as the top of his hair had some length. He was clean-shaven and wore a suit jacket and pants, but his tie was slightly loosened as the first button on his shirt collar was undone. Monica said he was working in a museum now, and he definitely looked the part… except for the attempt to appear casual in the bar atmosphere.

One of the noticeable differences between the Geller siblings was their obvious physical appearances. They both shared the same dark brown hair gene, but that was the end of their similarities. Ross was tall and lean and lacked the capacity to gain weight no matter what he ate (which Monica complained, and Ross bragged about in college), and that seemed to be holding true presently. His face was narrow, his nose long, and he had brown eyes… a stark contrast to Monica altogether. Anyone who didn't know them wouldn't be able to pick up on the fact they were related.

Yet, Chandler knew both and could pick up on the familial nuances. For one, the Geller siblings had the same curvature when they smiled, and they both had the same eye-popping gaze when they were happily surprised.

That was how Chandler was greeted when his old college buddy's eyes widened when he sighted them and then the largest smile broke across his face. It didn't take long for the two reunited friends to hug it out. Chandler was aware that Monica was standing back, allowing them a chance to have this moment. Then after some time passed, she stood next to them.

"I hate to break up this beautiful reunion, but you guys are getting stares and I want a drink," she teased them, her lips pressed together in amusement.

Both Chandler and Ross sheepishly laughed and the three sat down at their table. Once they ordered their drinks, it didn't take long for the two men to reminiscence and find their footing from years ago. It was like time didn't pass after all!

Monica had filled him in on most of her brother's life, but Chandler was able to learn more from the source. It still blew his mind about the divorce, and Ross was a father. It was a far cry from the Ross he knew back in college.

Even more surprising was that Ross wasn't playing music anymore. Neither was Chandler but he remembered how adamant his roommate had been about his Sound and how he was never gonna give it up (and later became touchy when Rick Astley had a song that came out with the similar phrase that Ross insisted, he must have overheard him).

They talked about work and Chandler had to admit it was pretty impressive how well Ross was doing in his field of paleontology. He had several papers published and he had done a couple lectures, but when Chandler asked him if he had done any digs, he conspicuously choked on his beer and stammered out how he went to Cairo.

"No, you didn't," Monica interjected.

"Damnit. I forgot you were there," Ross muttered.

"You haven't done any digs?" Chandler asked.

"Not anything super big. I did one in Wyoming as part of my grad work."

Monica chortled. "All he complained about was how it was too hot and the lack of running water."

"It was too hot!" protested Ross.

Chandler snickered. "Do you think Cairo wouldn't be hot?"

Ross grumbled as he and Monica continued laughing at her brother's expense. Finally, she announced she needed to use the ladies' room and left. Chandler took another swig as Ross commented, "This reminds me of the old days. Remember the bar we hung out before Carol and I got married?"

"Yeah." It had also been the after party when the reception ended. Chandler gulped his next mouthful of beer. He had a funny feeling where Ross was going with it, and he hoped he wouldn't.

"This place has that vibe… kind of." Ross looked around and sighed. "I can't believe we drifted apart after all we had promised about not doing that and being friends forever."

At the remark, Chandler mentally braced himself for the inevitable question.

"Why did we?" The question sounding like it just occurred to Ross. He looked at Chandler expectingly like he would know the answer to it.

Chandler could feel the sweat gathering at his temples as he was doing his utmost to maintain a calm façade. He was glad he was still holding his beer, but his grip was tightening on the glass exterior.

"I dunno," he said slowly. "I guess things just happened and time got away."

Ross seemed to accept it with a nod and another swallow of his beer. Chandler covered his shaky exhale of relief with another sip. Thank God!

"I know Monica wasn't happy you stopped coming around," Ross continued. "I know you two were friends when we were in college." Shrugging to himself, he went on. "I for one am glad you hired my sister. When she told me she had applied to be an assistant and it was your office, I didn't know what to think. You didn't owe any favors and I told Mon not to get her hopes up; well, I'm just happy she's working. She's had a rough couple of years and needed to catch a break. Really… thanks, man."

Chandler could feel the tension fading now. "She was one of the best contenders and is doing a fantastic job. It just happened to be a bonus to help out a friend too."

"Good, good." Ross paused and then looked at him intently as if trying to read him.

This time the tiny hairs on the back of Chandler's neck prickled as they stood up. Did Ross…? No. He couldn't. He would have said something earlier. He wouldn't have hugged me if he knew.

Fortunately, Monica returned to the table and Ross's scrutiny ended. He was all smiles and cheerfulness.

"Sorry it took so long. There was a line," Monica told them. "I think this is going to be my last one."

"Yeah, same here," Ross said. "I have to get up early to pick up Ben from Carol's. Wanna share a cab back?"

She agreed then looked at him next. "Chandler?"

"I'm going to stay and finish this." He raised his bottle to show the remaining contents. "I'll see you tomorrow."

"Okay. Have a good night!" She grinned at him.

"Don't be a stranger," Ross told him as they shook hands.

Chandler waved goodbye as the brother and sister exited the bar. It was then he noticed tucked in the corner was a pool table. Unbidden images rose instantaneously before he could rein them in.

Heated, desperate kisses… hands scorching against exposed flesh… a low, needy moan reverberated between them… fingers sliding into his hair to keep his head in place while his own trembled against her… the cool metal of his zipper catching his nail as he began to pull it down.

Shaking his head, Chandler blocked the memory. He would not go there.

Chandler quickly finished his beer and paid for his tab before heading home. He only hoped his roommate wasn't home too or if he was, he was keeping to himself. Frankly, Chandler wasn't in the mood to deal with his crazy shit. By the time he reached his apartment door, Chandler remembered Eddie was out of town.

At least he had the place all to himself.

Eddie wasn't bad per say. All intents and purposes he was the ideal roommate. He paid his portion of the rent and bills on time, cleaned up after himself, bought his own groceries, wasn't loud, and he never taped over Chandler's Baywatch episodes. He was, well, just a little nuts. As long as Eddie took his meds, he was a great guy. Pleasant, amiable, and not paranoid.

Off his meds, Eddie would turn into a completely different person. Chandler found out the hard way when he witnessed a complete meltdown and questionable sanity. It was frightening and sad to see it unfold. Chandler had been at a loss on what to do. Luckily or ironically (since this was why Eddie stopped taking his medicine) it was the ex-girlfriend who informed the bewildered roommate of the situation.

"Eddie will have these bouts of mania. It usually lasts a few days, but all you have to do is convince him to take his meds. He will and he'll be right as rain in no time."

Of course, she did go further to explain that Eddie was embarrassed to share this about himself with anyone. She pleaded with Chandler to give him a second chance. Eddie had been living with him for a couple months at that point and Chandler did like him in spite of his quirks. So, he figured he would try first and if it didn't work out, then he would have to find another way to get him to move out. In the end, Chandler did get Eddie to get back on track and the next day he was his lucid self again apologetic and everything.

That was five years ago. Even though Chandler could afford the rent on his own now, he was reluctant to move out or ask Eddie to leave. Part of it was that he worried what would become of his roommate if Chandler wasn't around. Although Eddie only had two episodes since living together. The second time was a lot shorter and only because he had missed a refill. But Chandler knew the real reason he hadn't left or asked Eddie to leave was that he didn't want to be living alone.

However, he was okay to have the apartment just to himself. Eddie would make small talk about his day and talking would only invite further thoughts that Chandler wasn't prepared to have. So, he went straight into his bedroom, took off his clothes and put on his pajamas, and collapsed on the bed.

Rolling on his back, he stared blankly at the ceiling, mentally willing not to go there. Yet, even when he fell into a fitful sleep, Chandler couldn't stop tossing back and forth as a long-forgotten memory that was buried now resurfaced.

xXx

The night was still young, and while the reception had ended, not everyone was ready to call it quits.

Laughing giddily with their arms around their waists, the newly married Mr. and Mrs. Ross Geller entered the bar. Behind the elated and blissful couple was the best man and bridesmaid.

Chandler caught the door before it closed and held it open for Monica who smiled graciously as she followed her brother and sister-in-law. They were already at the bar and talking to Chris, the owner. A row of shot glasses were lined up and Chris was in the process of preparing them for the wedding party.

Chandler stopped shortly behind Monica as she fidgeted with her dress, looking at the drinks with a conflicted expression.

"You're entitled to have a shot," Chandler whispered to her. "You hardly drank the champagne earlier."

He could see in her eyes she was mentally calculating the calories until she remembered vodka had the least amount. When Carol handed her the glass, Chandler was glad to see Monica take it.

"Here man." Ross gave his friend one too. "A toast to my beautiful wife. I love you so much Carol."

"I love you too," Carol said, giggling as her husband hooked his arm around hers as they tossed their drinks back.

Chandler and Monica turned towards each other and clinked their glasses before swallowing the contents. He grimaced as the newlyweds became absorbed with another activity that he wanted to ram the tiny shot glass into his eyes to blind himself. Of course, he wasn't the only one who felt the same. Monica made a face at the very public kissing scene.

"Let's sit over there, Mon. Those two are goners."

"I'll say," she agreed as they sat down in a booth away from the Gellers but could still keep an eye on them in case things went too far. "I never understood why people like making out where everyone can see. Some things are best kept private."

Chandler glanced at the couple and winced. "I'm inclined to agree about those two. It's not pretty." This made Monica giggle. "I'll get the first round. Diet Coke and rum, okay?"

"Yes, please."

Kidding aside, he was actually happy for his now former roommate. Ross was truly smitten with his wife and why not? He and Carol had been inseparable since the night of the mixer four years prior. Of course, they were destined for marital happiness. It also helped that during the whole time Ross never looked at or talked about another woman. Specifically, he never mentioned Rachel Greene.

It also happened to help that Rachel was no longer in the picture. The last time Chandler seen her was at the Gellers (senior) on Thanksgiving their sophomore year. After that, Monica's best friend made fewer and fewer appearances until it stopped altogether. While Chandler was glad Rachel wasn't around to fuel Ross's obsession, he was saddened for the one person who was hurt the most by it.

Monica.

To this day, Chandler had no idea why Rachel withdrew herself from Monica's life. Even worse, he suspected Monica didn't know either. And there had been moments when he knew she needed her best friend, and she wasn't there for her. Well, she did have a best friend, but it wasn't the same, not when the best friend was a guy and not a girl.

It was a strange twist of fate that he and Monica became the closest of friends after she lost hers. Maybe not strange. Perhaps speeding up the process would be accurate. He had to wonder if it was in the cards for them to be best friends on that particular Thanksgiving in 1988.

At least it was the one good thing to come from that cursed holiday. He wouldn't say he was partial to Thanksgiving, but he wasn't as glacial towards it. Yes, Thanksgiving '88 was memorable to his and Monica's friendship, despite the unfortunate injury he sustained with his severed toe. Okay, not completely severed… he missed the part with the nail, but he couldn't fault Monica. It was his own stupid fault to decide to play a prank while she was in the middle of cutting carrots.

Still, Chandler couldn't fathom how anyone could willingly give up being friends with her. Well, Rachel lost out there, he thought.

Grabbing their drinks, he avoided being bumped into the amorous couple. The bar wasn't super busy, which should be shocking, but the place was steadily losing patrons and the last Chandler heard was that the building was up for sale. It was a bummer considering how much time (and money) was spent here, but out with the old and in with the new, he supposed.

That can't be comfortable, he thought with a frown as his friends made out on the stools. Shaking his head, he joined Monica and handed her glass to her, and they clanked them together for another toast to the wedded couple's well-being. He watched as she twisted in her seat to watch a group of four playing pool. With Monica engrossed in the game, Chandler allowed his gaze to drift for the millionth time that night over her.

She was stunning even though she complained to him about the dress. The material was velvet (the "in" thing apparently) and it was a dark burgundy with off the shoulder sleeves and straps over the shoulder that came short above the knees, complete with a big bow in the back at the waist that was cumbersome (she kept picking at it to adjust it to let her sit comfortably), and a sweetheart neckline that teased her décolletage. Her brunette hair was all curly with half of it up in a tight updo and the rest of the ringlets framing her face.

He couldn't understand why she didn't like it (other than the bow… that thing was annoying). He thought she looked great. It hugged in all the right places, accentuating her developing hour-glass shape. She had been focused on losing weight for the last four months for this wedding. While it wasn't the first time since he had known her, she was trying, this was the first time she had been persistent, and the results were showing. She told him she wasn't close to her weight goal, but she did drop two dress sizes. Her face still had a soft roundness to it, though not nearly as full as it used to be. Plus, Monica gained a new level of energy that outshined her past energetic self. There was a certain glow about her and that was the happiness of doing this for herself.

Her profile was wistful as she returned her gaze to her brother and his wife. "I can't believe he got married." She shifted back in her seat to face her friend. "It feels surreal."

"Tell me about it. I thought they were going to break up when Ross proposed." He took a sip. "You're graduating soon yourself, huh, Miss CIA."

"Oh, stop," she said bashfully but was brimming with evident pride. "That's right! Next May and then I'll be a Culinary Institute of America alumni. I cannot wait to get out there and open my restaurant."

"Knowing you, you're probably going to be the youngest graduate to do that before you're twenty-three."

She gave him a pointed look. "You're not wrong but it is important to start from the bottom up. I was thinking twenty-three and a quarter."

"Whoa, slow down overachiever," he teased with a playful grin. "Your parents must be excited."

"Dad is. He's already bragging to his friends about Chef Monica and how I could be cooking for the president one day or even the Queen." She took a thoughtful drag from her drink. "My mom… well, she's another story as usual."

He nodded sagely. Judy Geller had been less than thrilled when Monica announced her acceptance into the prestigious culinary school. Throughout her four years in attendance, Monica consistently remained at the top of her class. Despite the accolades, Monica's mother still undercut her success and focused on other aspects of her life. Like her lack of having a boyfriend even though she was nearly twenty-two.

"She'll eat her words. Mark my word," he told her.

"I hope so. I think the only way I can impress her is if I land a Michelin star restaurant, married, and with children. Although she would prefer the marriage and children first."

"Seriously? But Ross just got married…" He thought Judy would calm down a bit with it and back off on Monica. Maybe even put all her nagging on her daughter-in-law to get pregnant with her first grandchild.

"Ah, but I'm a woman. Not the same thing." Her curls shook in response. "Anyways, how's your job?"

Chandler made a noncommittal noise. "It's a job. Figured it would do as a temporary thing until I figured out what I want to do. I spend my hours in a claustrophobic cubicle, inputting numbers on spreadsheets, reviewing spreadsheets, re-inputting numbers…" He snored off at the end as her nose scrunched in disdain at the very boring description.

"Riveting. What is it that you do again?"

"Data processing. Trust me, it's a lot more boring than it sounds."

"Then why did you take it?"

He shrugged. "Pays the bills. Don't worry. I don't plan on sticking around forever in it."

"I hope so. You should do something that makes you happy. Not fall asleep in the middle of talking about it."

"I'll drink to that." They tapped their drinks again. Chandler finished his beer and got a second one. Monica was still nursing her Diet Coke and rum until her brother and his wife managed to stop their antics to inform them they were going to head off. The suggestive tone was undeniable, and it made Monica both blanched and blushed at the same time.

Chandler promised he would see Monica home and the Gellers were gone. He cocked his head when he noticed Carol do a double-take on one of the women at the pool table who was leaning over to do a shot. He blinked but she was squeezing herself against her husband. When he looked at Monica, he gaped to see her glass was now empty and her straw was on the table. She drained what had been at least half-full the last he saw it. Though her brow furrowed towards him.

"I live just above here," she said. "You don't have to do that."

"I know but humor me. I would be a crappy friend if I didn't." He motioned to the empty cup. "Do you want another?"

Monica waved to Chris who acknowledged her. "Chandler, you live on the other side of town. Further than me."

"I'm staying Mon."

Chris brought her the drink and took the empty glass. "Can I also have a Bud Light too?" she asked, pointing to Chandler's beer.

"Sure. Be right back."

"Beer too?" Chandler said incredulously.

She glared at him. "I'm over twenty-one."

He couldn't argue with her on that as he put his hands up in defeat. Of course, he also debated if he should tell her the real reason, he wasn't ready to go back to his apartment. Like his job, he hated it. It was drafty and smelled like cabbage. His neighbors were either arguing or having loud sex—a stark reminder of his own singular status. And the fact his best friend was getting laid too didn't make him that eager to go home alone. Monica lived with her grandmother and if he recalled… there was a decent couch that perhaps Nana Geller would be cool with him crashing on it. She was spry and pretty cool for an old lady, and he was certain she liked him. Though he was already dismissing the idea as soon as it came. He didn't want to be a bother.

Chris dropped off the Bud and Monica took a hearty chug from it. He lifted a brow and asked, "Everything okay?"

"Of course! Why would you ask that?" Everything didn't sound okay, but he wasn't going to push it. He had a good sense of what could be bothering her, and why not? He was in the same boat too. They were dateless to this wedding and only had each other for company. "Let's play pinball," she suggested.

Translation: she's challenging him to pinball. There were only two, which was perfect to play side-by-side and see who could earn the higher score. Chandler knew full well that this wasn't going to be a friendly game. With Monica everything was a competition and he had seen a lot of her combative competitive side over the years to know how it could go. Throw in alcohol and he was taking his life at risk. But he needed a diversion just like she did so he couldn't resist poking the bear.

They were in the middle of a fourth round (Monica—2, Chandler—1) when Chris came over to tell them he was getting ready to leave. The group that was playing pool had already left and so it was just Monica and Chandler.

"Oh, um, I guess we could—" Chandler started to say when Monica, without halting her concentration, stuck out her hand as Chris dropped the keys into her palm.

"Thanks, Monica. Night."

"Night, Chris," she said without looking away.

Chandler frowned as Chris walked out of his bar and looked back at his friend. Chris was older than him… probably a decade or two, and yes, they were regulars, but he didn't think Chris knew Monica well enough to let her close the place. And clearly this wasn't the first time either if that exchange was anything to go by.

No longer into the game, Chandler crossed his arms. "Uh, Mon? Do you have something to share with the class?"

"Ha!" She pumped her fist in the air as she gloated. "Beat ya! Loser!" Twirling the keychain around her finger, she reached for her beer for another drink. "What do you mean?"

"Chris. Closing the bar."

"What about it?" Monica retorted. "Wait… you think…?" She tossed her head back, laughing. "Oh my God, Chandler! He's only a friend and he's married."

"Married guys can still go after young pretty girls. You forgot older. A lot older."

She snorted. "He knows my Nana and she would kick his ass if he tried anything funny. Besides, pretty doesn't actually apply here so there's no reason to get your panties twisted in a knot."

"C'mon, Monica. Don't do that."

She sighed. "You don't have to do that either. Be the big protective brother. I have Ross for that."

"He's not here so in de facto… that makes me the big protective brother now."

She gritted her teeth. "Chris trusts me to close up if I'm around. I have done it more than you know, and for the record, Ross knows I do this too."

Monica wasn't lying and he accepted that. "Very well. Glad that nothing inappropriate has happened, but that's not what I meant, and you know it." When she didn't answer, he reached into his pocket and pulled out two quarters and laid them flat on the glass of the machine. "Truth or dare."

She snapped her face at him like he grew a second head. Chandler's lips curled. "Let's make a wager and the loser has to do what the winner picks."

Monica bit her lower lip and the lure was still strong for her to resist. "You're on!"

The high score went to Chandler this time. She huffed about it but relented to the terms. Smirking, Chandler told her, "I dare you to say you're pretty and mean it."

Monica took a deep breath and looked him square in the eye. "I'm pretty."

He grinned and was pleased to see the small smile flickering on her face. "Okay," Monica said. "Since I won the most games, it's only fair that I do the same to you."

Chandler dramatically exhaled. "Fine. Get your revenge, Geller."

The last thing he expected was her to pick truth for him to respond. Even more surprising was her question.

"Have I ever fantasized about Carol?" he repeated to make sure he heard her correctly. "What kind of truth question is that?"

"Don't most guys fantasize about their best friend's girlfriends?" she rejoined. "Carol spent a lot of time in your dorm. Every time I visited; she was there. Tell me the truth, Bing. Did you imagine being with Carol?"

"I can safely say… no, I haven't. Not once. Not ever."

He couldn't tell if she was disappointed or not with his answer. Or if she had some other ulterior motive behind it. She might be his best friend, but she was a woman, and she was still confusing as hell. His beer was now empty, and he figured they should go since Chris was entrusting them to leave once they finished their game.

Monica threw him another curveball when she stated she wasn't ready to go home.

"But… the bar is closed," he said, puzzled.

"Yes. To everyone else," she clarified. "It's okay, Chandler. But we should cover the windows and dim the lights." She went over to the large window next to the entrance and pulled the drapes across to keep the public from looking inside. She repeated the same action to the side windows until no one on the sidewalk or street could see. Then she went over to the lights and flipped one switch to turn off one set to make it less bright. To his further amazement, she went behind the bar and pulled out two more beers.

"Don't worry. I'm going to leave Chris a note and pay him tomorrow for the drinks," she explained.

He didn't doubt that. "I don't think I ever saw you bend the rules like this before."

"Yeah, well, it's not every day my brother gets married. Pool table is free."

He looked over his shoulder. "So, it appears. I'll rack them up." As Chandler busied himself with getting the game ready, Monica brought the drinks over. "You want to break them?"

"I'll let you do it," she said. "It's probably going to be your only chance to hit the balls."

"How generous of you." He aimed and hit the cue ball. The first one in was stripes, leaving the solids to Monica. They decided to keep asking each other truth or dare when they were able to sink in a ball. It kept things interesting to say the least. But as the dares were pretty limiting in their location, they opted to mostly truth. It started off as innocent and silly questions. First crush? Mrs. Swanski, Chandler's first-grade teacher ("Yes she was way older than me and I would never score, but she was foxy!" he claimed). Embarrassing parent moments? Monica's dad telling her friends at a sleepover how he got his wife pregnant with Ross ("His idea of a scary story," she said). Inappropriate crushes? Dr. Burke, a friend of both her parents ("He's really handsome and successful…" she explained while he interjected, "The big tree with the mustache!?" "He's not a tree! And what is with your deal with mustaches?"). Something the other didn't know about the other? Chandler's third nipple ("I'm not going to show you").

The first game went to Monica. He sucked it up with her taunts and then demanded a rematch, which she was too glad to do. Monica broke and to his utter delight… she didn't get a single ball into the pocket.

"Too bad," he crowed. He lined up and took his shot. Solids this time for him. They finished their drinks and grabbed another one. During the second game, the truth questions became a little more personal.

Somehow the topic of first kisses came up, and he had no idea what possessed him to introduce it. He was slightly buzzed though not too drunk to lose his faculties, but it was enough for his mouth to run before his brain could stop him. Then again, the question was pretty innocuous. He might have been a dunce when it came to women, yet he was thirteen when he had his first kiss courtesy of his camp girlfriend Julie Graff. Maybe Monica had a similar story of a summer romance or a crush on a rival competitor from her wrestling days.

Therefore, he wasn't prepared for her answer or the way he had instantly froze in his spot.

"That night at the mixer your freshman year."

That was her first kiss?! No, no. She had to be mistaken. She had to have her first kiss before that night. She was screwing with him. She couldn't be serious…

Did she know? No… She couldn't have known it was me. It was a long time ago and she would have said something! Right? Right!?

Chandler could feel overwhelming panic filling his lungs while Monica let out a girlish chuckle. "Actually, I was kissed twice that night."

He stared, gawking at her while his lips moved wordlessly. Two kisses!? When? How? He searched his memory banks for that night, but his brain was in an alcohol fog, and he couldn't exactly recall what happened other than he had been irate with Ross, and he wanted to do something nice for Monica.

Misinterpreting his look, she laughed. "I know! The first kiss was very nice and the second was… not that great. I don't know who it was, but when he came back the second time the magic was gone. As disappointing as that was, it still meant a lot to me."

She took her position behind the cue ball and delivered a decent stroke that sent the striped twelve into the corner right pocket. Her point and her turn to ask him a question.

"When Rachel kissed you, did you like it?"

It took him far longer to understand what she asked him. Mostly because he was still stuck in the whammy of surprises of learning he was Monica's first kiss. When he didn't answer, she backpedaled. "You know, forget it. That was stupid. Do you see yourself getting married as Ross—"

"No."

Her eyebrows rose. "Darn! Missed it. It's your turn now."

Chandler blinked. "I mean… No, I didn't like it."

"Oh." Her tone was quiet. Embarrassed. "I could understand if you did because a lot of guys liked kissing her. She bragged a lot about how good she was… Never mind. Not important. Your turn."

She wasn't looking at him and he wondered… Had she been jealous that night? He tried to conjure that scene in his head, but it was like trudging in a river against the current. He couldn't remember.

Why wasn't she looking at him? Chandler wished she would. He could make a joke, break whatever this uneasy tension was. It would be easy to do. They were drinking after all and loose lips and tongues and all with lowered inhibitions… But he couldn't find the words to make it so. Instead, his mind was turning over on itself with the thoughts he refused to go down.

There were rules. She was his friend albeit his only close female friend. She knew things no one else did… not even Ross. How many times had she comforted him or made him feel better? Or when she found out that her brother was behind the Sir Limps-A-Lot nickname how she chewed him out about it? He was able to clearly picture her remorse in the hospital and kept blaming herself for what was obvious an accident. It had been his stupid fault, and she couldn't stop chewing her lower lip or the tears that kept making her blue eyes dark and wide with guilt. Even when he was hopped up on pain meds, he remembered the urge to take that full lip of hers between his teeth and do the nibbling himself. He wanted to know if she still tasted as good as the last time…

He chastised himself for even thinking that and was glad Ross came into the room. However, there had been other times over the years when his thoughts would cross into that forbidden territory. It was always fleeting, and he would hold himself in reproof over it.

This was Monica. His best friend. He was practically a brother to her…

But there she was standing under the subdued lighting clad in that body-hugging dress, her eyes downcast, and her teeth teasing the blood-red lip of hers.

Kissing. They had been talking about first kisses and they have been drinking and she said the first kiss was very nice while the second was not. Which one had been his? The nice one or the bad one? If the latter, then maybe he should rectify it. Prove that he could do better.

An emboldened feeling filled Chandler as he drew closer to her, his fingertips grazing the exposed back of her shoulder.

She spun around, her eyes widened in astonishment, and she gasped.

It was just him, her, and the pool table behind them.

"Kiss me," he said softly, brushing a strand of her hair behind her ear.

Monica's pink tongue swept across her lips, her breath a shaky exhale. She didn't move away or tell him to get lost or ask him "what the hell was he thinking?" He watched as her blue eyes appeared darker as they flickered from his eyes to his mouth as her chin quivered.

Chandler cupped her cheek as Monica leaned forward, eliminating the distance as their lips sealed together.

xxXXxx

He groaned, squeezing his eyes tightly. He didn't want it to continue. He couldn't. For years he had effectively blocked it out and it was surging back in a powerful vengeance.

Throwing the covers off, Chandler jumped out of bed and paced around his room. He focused on the aftermath and the years that followed. He couldn't go back to that place. He couldn't.

It took some time but eventually he was able to reclaim some semblance of control as his breathing began to even out and the memory was locked up once more. Right where it belonged now and forever.

He almost sobbed as he laughed hysterically when another distraction demanded attention. At least his bladder could take advantage of this moment.

While relieving himself, Chandler decided to count another blessing. It was the weekend and he had time to put up further barriers before he saw Monica again on Monday morning.

By the time he returned to his bed, Chandler was exhausted, and he fell asleep with no more dreams of haunted memories.

TBC…