Disclaimer: I don't own Gilmore Girls. If I did, believe me, it would have turned ou quite differently.
A/N: Another update! I'm getting used to it.
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CHAPTER 22 - SHEET HAPPENS
"Don't touch that, it's not ready yet," Stephanie warned.
"Okay, Mom," Finn replied dutifully.
"Since I'm the mom here, why don't you two take this opportunity to clean your room?" Stephanie suggested with a smirk, pointing at Logan and Finn.
"Yeah, Logan. Do you really think Rory's going to grace those ratty sheets with her silky skin?" Finn teased.
"Sorry to burst your bubble, but Rory and I aren't dating," Logan retorted.
"Is that your excuse for not changing your sheets?" Stephanie shot back.
"Oh my God, can we drop this?" Logan groaned.
"By the way, where's Rory?" Colin interjected.
"She's not coming tonight," Stephanie informed them.
"But it's Friday night," Finn protested incredulously.
"I know, she said she has a family thing," Stephanie explained.
"So, she's really mending fences with the Gilmores?" Logan asked, raising an eyebrow.
"Why are you so curious if she's not your girlfriend?" Finn quipped.
"Excuse me, I thought I was talking to Stephanie," Logan countered.
"Yes, Logan. Rory's patching things up with the Gilmores and is having dinner with her grandparents tonight. Satisfied?" Stephanie clarified.
"More or less," Logan muttered.
"What's this? Thinking about joining the family?" Finn joked.
"Cut it out, Finn. Logan's having a rare moment of genuine thoughtfulness; let's not ruin it," Stephanie said with a grin.
Logan suddenly raised an eyebrow. "You know, Steph, it's funny how you're all over me and Finn about the sheets. Why aren't you on Colin's case? Or is it because you've been, uh, personally inspecting his?"
Colin, looking caught off guard, stammered, "Whoa, hold on a minute—"
Stephanie's eyes narrowed as she glared at Logan. "Seriously, Logan? That's the best you've got?"
"Oh, this is getting interesting," Finn said, leaning forward with a mischievous grin.
Stephanie crossed her arms, her tone icy. "For your information, Logan, Colin knows how to keep his room clean without my supervision. Unlike some people."
Logan smirked. "Right, because he's got you to supervise it for him."
"Maybe Colin's just naturally tidy. Not everyone needs a girlfriend to teach them basic hygiene," Stephanie shot back.
Finn couldn't resist chiming in. "Wow, Logan. If you're trying to deflect attention, you're doing a terrible job."
"They're trying to deflect attention too, don't be manipulated," Logan shot back.
Colin, still looking uncomfortable, finally spoke up. "Can we change the subject? This is getting awkward."
"Agreed," Stephanie said firmly. "Logan, if you're done stirring the pot, maybe you should think about changing those sheets. Who knows? It might improve your love life."
Logan reluctantly stood up, shaking his head with a smirk. "Alright, I'll go change the sheets. Happy now?"
Stephanie turned to Finn with a satisfied smile. "See? Progress."
Logan tried to roll his eyes, but Stephanie locked hers with his, her expression softening slightly. "It's a start. Sometimes a small change can lead to something bigger."
Logan paused, catching the underlying message. "You really think it's that simple?"
Stephanie shrugged, a knowing smile playing on her lips. "Simple? No. Necessary? Absolutely."
Logan held her gaze for a moment longer, then nodded slowly. "Maybe I should change those damn sheets..."
Finn and Colin exchanged bewildered glances.
"Are we still talking about sheets?" Finn asked, scratching his head.
"Feels like we've entered the Twilight Zone of laundry," Colin added, bewildered.
Logan smirked. "You two really need to keep up. Yes, we're still talking about sheets. Maybe you could start a debate on the best techniques too."
Finn's eyes lit up. "Oh, now there's an idea! Colin, hospital corners or the military tuck for sheet changing?"
Colin, catching on, played along. "I don't know, Finn. I've heard the European style, where you just throw the duvet over everything, is quite popular."
Stephanie shook her head, laughing. "You two are idiots."
Rory stood in her dorm room, the floor a chaotic sea of clothing. She bit her lip, staring down at the mess with a mix of frustration and anxiety. Tonight was important—her first Friday night dinner with her family since the big fallout. This dinner was her chance to show them she had her life back on track.
She picked up a pale blue blouse, holding it against herself as she examined her reflection in the mirror. "Too casual," she muttered, tossing it aside. Next was a black dress, sleek and elegant, but she immediately rejected it. "Too formal."
The clock on her desk ticked away the minutes, amplifying her stress. How was it so hard to find the right balance?
"Please don't go there," she made a note to herself.
Rory sank down onto her bed, surrounded by piles of discarded outfits. Her mind drifted back to the last time she had been in such a wardrobe crisis. It was the night she had felt so lost, so utterly defeated. That night she ended up at a party, looking for an escape, and met Logan. She remembered the reckless spontaneity of their first encounter, the way he had lifted her spirits with his effortless charm.
"Don't even go there," she reminded herself.
The roller coaster that followed—those dizzying highs and crushing lows—left her unsure about reaching out to him now. She picked up her phone, hesitated, and then set it down. This was something she needed to face on her own.
Returning her focus to the mess at hand, Rory thought about what this dinner symbolized. It wasn't just about reconciling with her family; it was about proving to herself that she could rise above the mistakes she had made. She needed an outfit that said, "I'm composed, but I'm still me." She wanted to appear confident without seeming overdone, to show them she was in control.
She stood up, scanning the room with renewed determination. A flash of red caught her eye—a simple yet elegant red blouse that she hadn't considered before. She paired it with a fitted skirt that was professional but not too stiff. As she looked in the mirror, she felt a spark of hope. The outfit was perfect: it was a statement of her independence and resilience.
Rory took a deep breath, feeling a mixture of excitement and nerves. She still had a lot to prove, not just to her family, but to herself. The memories of her tumultuous relationship with Logan lingered in the back of her mind, a reminder of how far she had come. She couldn't rely on anyone else to define her journey. This was her chance to show everyone, including herself, that she was ready to move forward.
With one last look in the mirror, Rory smiled. She grabbed her bag and headed out the door, feeling a sense of calm amidst the lingering apprehension. Tonight was a new beginning, and she was ready to embrace it.
Rory parked her car in front of her grandparents' house, her hands gripping the steering wheel tightly. Her nerves were frayed, and it showed in her increasingly futile attempts to parallel park. She backed up, straightened out, and tried again, but the car refused to cooperate, making her frustration mount.
"Come on, Rory, it's just parking," she muttered to herself, cheeks flushed with embarrassment as she narrowly avoided grazing the curb. She glanced at the clock on the dashboard—she was already late.
Suddenly, a sharp rap on her window made her jump. She turned to see Logan grinning at her, his expression a perfect blend of amusement and charm.
"Need a hand?" he asked through the glass.
Rory rolled down the window, her heart racing. "Logan! What are you doing here?"
"I had a hunch you might need some assistance," he said, leaning casually against the car. "Or maybe I just don't trust your parking skills."
She huffed, half amused, half exasperated. "You know, I was handling it just fine."
"Of course you were," Logan replied, his eyes sparkling mischievously. "Scoot over, Ace."
With a reluctant smile, Rory slid over to the passenger seat. Logan slipped into the driver's seat and, with a few deft maneuvers, perfectly parked the car.
"Show-off," Rory mumbled, unable to keep the smile from her face.
He flashed a cocky grin. "All in a day's work."
Seeing her still tense, Logan's expression softened. "Hey, you'll be great. And if it gets too unbearable in there, I'll be right out here waiting for you. You're going to knock 'em dead."
His confidence was contagious, and Rory felt a little of her anxiety melt away. She took a deep breath. "Thanks, Logan. That actually helps."
Logan watched her, his expression suddenly serious. "I mean it, Rory. You got this."
Rory nodded, turning to face the imposing house. Just as she was about to get out, she noticed Logan standing there with an expectant look, almost like a puppy waiting to be invited inside.
"Wait a minute," she said, turning back to him. "Did you... did you expect to be invited in?"
Logan's suave demeanor faltered for a moment. "Well, I—uh, I figured I could, you know, be moral support. If you need it."
Rory raised an eyebrow, a smirk playing on her lips. "Moral support, huh? How did you even know I'd be here?"
He hesitated, his usual confidence slipping. "I have my ways," he said, avoiding her gaze.
Rory's eyes narrowed playfully. "Logan, did you plan this?"
He shifted uncomfortably. "Okay, maybe I did. But only because I thought you could use a friend tonight."
Rory considered this. Weighing the possible scenarios—both good and disastrous—she finally decided. "Alright, but we need a cover story."
Logan's eyes lit up. "I'm all ears."
"You're just here because you gave me a ride," she said, holding up a finger for emphasis. "We're not dating, and you absolutely cannot stain my grandmother's white napkins again. And no embarrassing stories about me, especially involving sex or alcohol. My grandparents still think I'm a virgin, okay?"
Logan struggled to suppress a laugh, but his eyes sparkled with mischief. He leaned in closer, a teasing grin on his lips. "Your grandparents still think you're a virgin? Oh, this is going to be fun."
"Logan!" Rory hissed, her cheeks flaming. "I'm serious. If you mess this up, I'll never forgive you."
"Relax, Ace," he said, his tone both soothing and playful. "I promise I won't ruin your pristine image. Your secret's safe with me."
Rory took a deep breath, feeling a bit more composed. "Okay. Let's do this."
They walked up to the front door together, Logan's usual swagger toned down just enough to be respectful, but not losing his characteristic charm. Rory knocked, her heart pounding. The door opened to reveal Emily Gilmore, her sharp eyes assessing the duo instantly.
"Rory, you're late," Emily said, her tone a mix of sternness and relief.
"Hi, Grandma. This is Logan—" Rory began, but Emily cut her off when she landed on Logan and widened with surprise. "Logan Huntzberger! What a delightful surprise."
Rory blinked, taken aback. "You two know each other by name?"
"Of course I know Logan," Emily said, her tone softening considerably as she ushered them inside. "Logan's parents are good friends of ours. How are Mitchum and Shira, my dear?"
Logan smiled, his charm turned up to eleven. "They're doing well, Mrs. Gilmore. Thank you for asking."
As they walked into the grand living room, Rory's surprise grew. Richard Gilmore looked up from his book, a smile spreading across his face. "Rory... And Logan! What a surprise."
"Hi, Grandpa," Rory said, her voice a bit strained. "Logan was kind enough to give me a ride."
Logan shook Richard's hand firmly. "Good to see you again, Mr. Gilmore."
"Likewise, Logan," Richard replied. "How's your golf game these days?"
"Better every time, thanks to your tips," Logan said with a wink, causing Richard to chuckle.
Rory blinked, taken aback. "You two play golf together?"
"Quite often, actually," Richard said, clearly enjoying her surprise. "Logan's a fine golfer."
"And a great conversationalist," Logan added with a grin. "Mr. Gilmore here has the best stories."
Richard chuckled. "Remember that time at the club, Logan, when you gave that impromptu lesson to the CEO of that tech company? What was his name again? Davis?"
Logan laughed, a warm, genuine sound. "Oh, yes! Davis. Poor guy couldn't tell a driver from a putter. I think he was more interested in the business deals being made on the green than actually playing."
Richard shook his head, smiling. "And then you managed to get him to close that deal after only two holes. Impressive work."
"Just following your example, Mr. Gilmore," Logan said smoothly. "You always know how to make things happen."
Rory felt like she was in an alternate universe. Her grandparents were exchanging inside jokes with Logan, and he was fitting right in, effortlessly charming them both. She watched in amazement as Logan and Richard continued their conversation.
"Remember the time we played that charity tournament, Logan?" Richard continued. "You managed to outdrive everyone, even those old pros."
"Ah, yes," Logan replied with a smirk. "And then I managed to miss the easiest putt on the last hole. That was embarrassing."
Richard chuckled. "Well, we can't all be perfect. But your recovery shot from the bunker was legendary. I still talk about it."
Rory could hardly believe what she was hearing. She knew Logan was good with people, but seeing him so deeply connected with her family was shocking. Logan caught her eye and gave her a small, self-satisfied smile as if to say, "See, Ace? I'm not just charming; I'm adored."
Emily clapped her hands, looking delighted. "Well, this is a lovely surprise. Come, let's sit down for a few drinks."
Just as they were about to sit, the doorbell rang. Rory's heart skipped a beat as she turned to see her mother, Lorelai, standing there. It was the first time they were seeing each other since their big fight. Rory had apologized over the phone, but seeing Lorelai in person brought a flood of emotions.
"Mom," Rory said softly, her voice trembling.
"Rory," Lorelai replied, her eyes misting over.
Without another word, Rory stood up and walked over to her mother, wrapping her arms around her in a tight embrace. They held each other for a long time, the room filled with a palpable sense of love and forgiveness. Emily and Richard looked on with tender smiles, while Logan watched the scene with a newfound respect.
After what felt like an eternity, they finally pulled apart. Lorelai greeted everyone with her usual warmth, her eyes landing on Logan for the first time.
"And who might this be?" Lorelai asked, her tone light but curious.
"Mom, this is Logan. Logan, my mom, Lorelai," Rory said, trying to keep her voice steady. "He's... a friend from Yale and gave me a ride today."
Emily and Richard, however, couldn't contain their excitement. "Logan is a wonderful young man," Emily interjected. "We're so glad Rory brought him here."
Richard nodded in agreement. "Indeed. It's clear that they make a good match."
Rory forced a smile, her discomfort obvious. "Logan is just a friend, really. He was kind enough to help me out."
Lorelai raised an eyebrow, a playful smirk on her lips. "Just a friend, huh? That's quite a suit for someone who's just giving a friend a ride."
Logan, not missing a beat, grinned. "I take my role as Rory's chauffeur very seriously."
Lorelai chuckled, appreciating his humor. "Well, at least you're well-dressed for the job."
As they moved to the dining room, Emily served the food with a flourish. "So, Rory, how's everything at Yale?" Richard asked.
Rory took a moment to gather herself, feeling the weight of her grandparents' expectations and the warmth of Logan's hand beneath the table. She glanced over at Lorelai, who was beaming with pride, knowing her daughter was back on track.
"Yale's been great, Grandpa," Rory began, her voice steady. "I'm doing well in my classes, making new friends, and learning a lot."
Emily nodded approvingly. "That's wonderful to hear, Rory dear. It seems like you're finally finding your way again."
Richard chimed in, his tone gentle yet pointed. "And having the right people by your side certainly helps, doesn't it?"
Rory glanced at Logan, feeling a slight blush creep up her cheeks. "Yeah, Logan has been really supportive. He's been there for me as a friend, helping me get things back on track."
Logan gave her hand a reassuring squeeze under the table, their eyes meeting briefly with an unspoken understanding. Lorelai caught the moment, a knowing smile playing on her lips as she silently cheered for her daughter's newfound happiness.
Emily leaned forward slightly, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Logan, dear, you seem quite fond of Rory. It's refreshing to see such loyalty and care."
Logan grinned, effortlessly charming as ever. "Well, Rory's easy to root for, Mrs. Gilmore. She's got a knack for surprising everyone."
Richard raised an eyebrow, his voice filled with paternal approval. "And how are things with your family, Logan? Mitchum and Shira must be quite proud of you."
Logan nodded, his expression genuine. "They're doing well, thank you. Always supportive, just like Rory's family here."
Logan couldn't believe his own words.
Lorelai glanced at Rory, her heart swelling with pride. She knew this was more than just friendship between her daughter and Logan, but she kept her observation to herself, savoring the moment of Rory finding her stride again.
As dinner continued, filled with laughter and the clinking of cutlery, Lorelai couldn't help but steal glances at Rory and Logan. She saw the subtle gestures, the shared looks that spoke volumes. It was a quiet affirmation that her daughter was not only back on track academically but also finding happiness in unexpected places.
Later that evening, as they said their goodbyes at the door, Lorelai pulled Rory into a tight hug. "I'm so proud of you, kiddo," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion.
Rory hugged her back just as fiercely, feeling a sense of gratitude for her mother's unwavering support. "Thanks, Mom. I'm glad you were here."
Logan approached them, his easy smile lighting up his face. "Thanks for having me, Lorelai. It was a pleasure meeting you."
Lorelai gave him a playful wink. "Likewise, Logan. Take care of my girl, alright?"
Logan nodded, his gaze turning fondly to Rory. "Always."
As they walked away from the Gilmore mansion, under the blanket of stars, Rory felt a sense of contentment she hadn't felt in a long time. She glanced at Logan, their fingers brushing lightly, and they shared a quiet smile, knowing that this was just the beginning of something special.
And Lorelai, watching from the doorway with a soft smile, knew in her heart that Rory was indeed back where she belonged—surrounded by love, support, and the promise of a bright future ahead.
After leaving her grandparents' house, Rory made her way toward her car, only to be reminded by Logan of their history—if he had given her a ride, so she owed him another trip back. She protested half-heartedly but agreed to call someone to fetch her car while Logan drove her home. He was, after all, impeccably dressed for the job.
As they cruised down the road, Rory couldn't help but be charmed by Logan's effortless wit, though she was determined not to let it show.
"So, this is part of your chivalrous act, huh? Playing the chauffeur in a suit?" Rory teased, glancing sideways at Logan.
Logan grinned, his eyes twinkling mischievously. "Absolutely. It's all part of the service, Ace. Consider it my way of ensuring you arrive home safely."
Rory rolled her eyes playfully. "Right. Because heaven forbid Rory Gilmore gets behind the wheel after a nice family dinner."
They shared a laugh, the tension easing between them. As they approached a stoplight, Logan stole a quick glance at Rory, his smile softening. "Fine, but let's be clear, Huntzberger. This isn't some grand romantic gesture."
Logan chuckled, opening the passenger door for her. "Who said anything about romance? Just two pals sharing a ride," he quipped as she slid into the seat.
As they cruised down the road, Rory couldn't help but be charmed by Logan's effortless wit, though she was determined not to let it show.
"So, about my grandparents," Rory began, trying to keep the mood light. "I'm sorry for that. Sometimes they can be quite a lot."
Logan waved off her apologies casually. "No need to apologize. It wasn't the worst to be mistaken as your boyfriend tonight."
"I didn't know you had such a talent for being an ass-kisser like that," Rory teased, her eyes sparkling with mischief.
Logan feigned shock, placing a hand dramatically over his heart. "Me? An ass-kisser? I'm wounded, Ace. Truly."
"Oh, please," Rory shot back, rolling her eyes. "I can't believe you were like, 'Oh Richard, thank you for your tips, now I'm doing better, blah blah blah.' The performance was Oscar-worthy."
"Hey, you're just jealous of my social skills," Logan retorted, wagging a finger at her. "They love me, and that worked out just fine for you. I stole the spotlight, and your comeback turned out smoothly."
Rory couldn't help but laugh, shaking her head. "Touché. Thanks for being such a good sport. They mean well, even if their methods are... unconventional."
Logan leaned in slightly, his grin widening. "Unconventional is one word for it. But I must say, if enduring a bit of meddling means spending more time with you, I think I'll survive."
Rory felt a flutter in her chest but kept her tone light. "Survive? You thrived. I swear, I saw my grandmother measuring you for a wedding tux."
Logan chuckled, the warmth in his eyes unmistakable. "Well, I do look rather dashing in a tux, don't I?"
Rory rolled her eyes again, but her smile gave her away. "You're impossible today."
"And yet, here we are," Logan said, his voice softening. "Two impossible people having a perfectly wonderful time."
Rory's heart raced at the sincerity in his eyes, but she wasn't ready to drop the teasing facade just yet. "Okay, Mr. Smooth-Talker."
Logan glanced at her, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. "They do say there's a fine line between meddling and matchmaking. Maybe we should test that theory," he suggested with a playful glint.
Rory raised an eyebrow, feigning skepticism. "Oh really? And what would that entail, Huntzberger?"
"Well, for starters, how about we go out on a real date? Wine, candles, romance, and everything." Logan proposed casually, though his eyes betrayed a hint of seriousness.
Rory frowned. "Logan... we've talked about that before."
"Come on, Rory. Does it seem like I'm kidding?"
"Well, you always told me that you only took girls on dates for the happy ending."
"That used to be true. But that's not enough anymore for us. What do I have to do so you can take this seriously?"
Rory tilted her head, a small smile tugging at her lips. "I suppose that could be arranged, under one condition..."
Logan leaned closer, intrigued. "Name it."
"You have to ask nicely," she teased, a playful challenge in her tone.
Logan mock-gasped, placing a hand over his heart. "Oh, Rory Gilmore, would you do me the honor of accompanying me on a date?"
Rory pretended to ponder for a moment, enjoying the game. "Hmm, you're getting warmer."
Logan grinned wider, his gaze locking with hers. "Please, Rory. Will you go out on a date with me?"
Rory laughed, unable to resist his charm. "Okay, maybe you've got yourself a date."
"Thank you, milady. I just wonder if your family will like me that much when they find out I might be the one to take your V-card if the date goes really well."
"Oh, shut up!" she playfully slapped him.
As they pulled up in front of Rory's dorm, Logan turned off the ignition. Before Rory could open the car door, he reached out, gently touching her arm to stop her.
"One more thing," Logan said, his voice low and earnest. "I believe I've earned a tip for my faultless work tonight," he added, raising an eyebrow suggestively.
Rory felt a thrilling tingle run through her at the challenge., but she maintained her composure, leaning in slightly closer to him.
With a mischievous glint in her eye, she placed a soft, lingering kiss on his lips, allowing her feelings to speak where words might falter.
"That's your tip," she murmured with a knowing smile, pulling back just enough to keep him wanting more.
Logan's smirk widened, his eyes gleaming with desire. "I think I've just discovered my dream job," he said softly.
Rory laughed softly, their lips barely a breath apart. The rush of excitement and nervous energy was almost overwhelming, and she knew she had to pull back before the longing consumed her. "You might want to save up your energy, Huntzberger," she whispered, her voice tinged with caution.
"That's a shame—I just put on fresh sheets today."
Rory raised an eyebrow, her smirk returning. "Really? How many thread counts are we talking about here?"
Logan leaned in slightly, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "A thousand-thread count. Only the finest for when I have special company."
Rory felt a flutter in her chest but kept her tone light. "Oh, only the best, huh? Sounds pretty luxurious."
Logan's smile softened, a touch of genuine warmth breaking through his teasing. "Only the best for you, Ace. Can't have you thinking I don't know how to spoil a girl properly."
Rory felt a warmth spread through her at the sincerity in his eyes, but she quickly covered it with a retort. "Well, we'll see if those sheets live up to the hype, then."
Logan chuckled softly, his gaze lingering on her. "Trust me, Gilmore, they'll be worth the wait. Just like you."
Rory felt a rush of attraction coursing through her veins, amplified by Logan's proximity and their banter. The desire was undeniable, and she found herself drawn to him more than she cared to admit. Yet, a part of her hesitated. They knew better than that right now.
Rory smiled and couldn't resist pecking his lips again. Then she stepped out of the car, glancing back at him with a grin.
"And just to make sure you bring your A-game. How about a pizza?"
Logan nodded along and watched her walk towards her dorm, a rush of warmth flooding through him. He knew one thing for sure: he was deeply in love with Rory Gilmore, and this time, he was determined to make it right.
A/N: We're almost at the end! What are your guesses on how the story will wrap up? Let me know in the comments.