Chpt 88 - It's My Birthday and I Can Invite Who I Want To – Part 2

Kelly, Silver, Sammy, and Winnie are at Brandon's apartment. They are putting up decorations. Kelly and Silver are trying to put up a banner on the wall. They are standing on chairs on opposite ends.

"Is this the biggest banner you can find?" asked Silver.

"Yeah, why?" asked Kelly.

"It's very big," replied Silver.

"Just help me," said Kelly not having any of it with Silver's small talk.

We hear a knock on the door.

"Who is it?" asked Kelly.

"Brenda and Dylan," replied Brenda from the other side.

"Come on in. It's open," said Kelly.

Brenda and Dylan open the door walk in.

"Hey guys," said Brenda.

"Hi," said Dylan.

Everyone says hi to Brenda and Dylan.

"Wow, this looks really nice," said Brenda.

"How does the banner look?" asked Silver.

"Looks good," replied Brenda.

"It's very big," said Dylan.

"I know, right? That's what I said," said Silver.

"It's fine...just make sure it's not crooked," said Kelly.

"Looks good to me," said Brenda.

"Thank you," said Kelly.

Kelly gets down from the chair.

Brenda walks up to Kelly.

"So...," said Brenda.

"So...," said Kelly.

"So...good job with the decorations," said Brenda.

"Thanks. I hope Brandon likes it," said Kelly.

"Oh, he will. You know my brother, he never misses a chance to be the center of attention," smiled Brenda.

"I'm really glad you guys made it back in time for the party," said Kelly.

"Thanks. We're happy to be here," said Brenda.

"So, how was La Jolla?" asked Kelly.

"It was good. It was work trip for Dylan...but I enjoyed myself helping him out," replied Brenda.

"Oh, you worked too?" asked Kelly making a drink for Brenda.

"Yeah...well, sort of. It was just a beach cleanup. I just helped," said Brenda.

"Actually, this was my first time getting seeing Dylan work at his many gigs," added Brenda.

"Oh, I didn't know that. I thought you would've gone to many of them," said Kelly.

Kelly stops as she realizes that it's probably better not to bring up her and Dylan's past relationship.

"Anyway, never mind. Well, that's great that you two had a great time. You didn't miss much here," said Kelly giving Brenda her drink.

"Thanks. So, how's he adjusting to the new apartment?" asked Brenda.

"Good. Good...he's practically a changed man," replied Kelly.

Brenda gives Kelly a confused look. Kelly notices.

"I mean, much improved from the last time you guys saw him," said Kelly.

"Oh. I'm glad he's doing well," said Brenda.

"Yeah, me too," said Kelly.

"Where is he?" asked Brenda.

"He's at his physical therapy," replied Kelly.

"Oh right; how's that going?" asked Brenda.

"It's going well. He made a good friend. Her name is Tina," replied Kelly.

"Oh ok," said Brenda surprised.

"What's she like?' asked Brenda.

"She's nice. I've only met her a few times. But she's nice," replied Kelly.

"Oh, interesting," said Brenda.

"Yeah. She's also coming to the party," said Kelly.

"Really?" asked Brenda surprised.

"Yeah, why?" asked Kelly noticing Brenda's reaction.

"No, nothing...," replied Brenda.

"Oh ok. You looked surprised there for a moment," said Kelly.

"I did?...I did. I'm sorry; This seems like big news," said Brenda.

"Well, I'm not sure if it's big news. She's a friend...and she's coming to the party. That's it," said Kelly acting casual.

"You're right; sorry, never mind my reaction," said Brenda.

"It's ok. We're all ok. We're all happy to be here celebrating Brandon's birthday," said Kelly still playing it cool.

"That's why I'm here," smiled Brenda.

Dylan walks up to Brenda and Kelly.

"I know why I'm here. Where's the birthday boy?" asked Dylan.

"He's at his physical therapy session. I'm going to go pick him up in an hour," replied Kelly.

"Would you excuse me for a moment? I...I have to go to the bathroom for a moment," added Kelly quickly excusing herself.

Dylan has a confused look as he watches Kelly go to the bathroom.

Kelly quickly turns around for a brief moment.

"Help yourselves to the food tray," said Kelly.

Kelly turns around again and walks into the bathroom.

Kelly closes the door behind her. She turns on the sink. She leans forward. She makes a bowl shaped with her hands and gets some water on her face.

Someone knocks on the door.

"Someone's in here," said Kelly.

"Kel?" asked Silver.

"Yeah?" asked Kelly.

"Nat's calling. He wants to know how many burgers to bring?" asked Silver.

"Whatever," replied Kelly.

"Ok, I'm gonna say 20," said Silver.

"Fine," said Kelly.

Kelly closes her eyes.

Some time goes by and we see Kelly coming out of the bathroom.

Kelly sees that a few more guest have arrived.

She sees Silver and goes to her.

Silver, I'm going to go pick up Brandon. Winnie's asleep in Brandon's room. Can you check on her every 15 minutes?" asked Kelly.

"Yeah, sure," replied Silver.

"Ok. Thanks Silver. I'll text you when we're on our way back," said Kelly.

"Ok. Sounds good," said Silver.

Kelly goes and grabs her coat and car keys.

She starts to walk towards the door. Brenda notices and walks to Kelly.

"Hey," said Brenda.

"Hey Brenda," said Kelly putting on her coat.

"Where are you going?" asked Brenda.

"I'm going to go pick up Brandon and Tina," replied Kelly.

"Oh ok. Is it ok if I tag along?" asked Brenda.

"Oh, I'm not sure if there's enough room in the car," replied Kelly.

"It's ok. We can take our minivan. There's plenty of space," said Brenda.

"Oh, I don't want to take you away from the party," said Kelly.

"Not at all," said Brenda.

"Ohhh kkkkkk; let's go," said Kelly.

Brenda looks at Dylan and signals to him that she's going to go.

Brenda and Kelly walk outside.

"Ok, where is your car? asked Kelly.

"That's it," replied Brenda.

Kelly sees the car and is surprised.

"Wow, this is big. Are you sure it's a minivan?" asked Kelly.

"Yeah, it's one of those new all-electric van things...it's supposed to be very environmental friendly; good for the fuel economy," replied Brenda.

"Ah, I see," said Kelly.

"Here, you drive; since you know the way," said Brenda handing Kelly the keys.

"Ok. Thanks," said Kelly.

Brenda and Kelly are in the car. Kelly is driving.

"So, how do you like it?" asked Brenda.

"It's good," replied Kelly.

"Smooth ride; isn't it?" asked Brenda.

"Yeah. This is my first time driving an all-electric car, let alone a car this big," replied Kelly.

"It also and smells brand new," added Kelly.

"Yeah, it is," said Brenda.

"You two rent it for your stay here?" asked Kelly.

"No, actually, it's for you guys," replied Brenda.

"Oh...wait...what?' asked Kelly shocked.

"This is our present to Brandon...and to you too. We think that it'll really help him. Plus, you can drive him everywhere in this," replied Brenda.

"Oh ok...I...I guess...thanks," said Kelly still surprised.

Brenda senses Kelly's shocked reaction.

"I hope it's ok and not too big of a deal," said Brenda.

"It'll be fine, I guess. I'm just worried about the parking. Brandon's place doesn't have a garage," said Kelly.

"You can park it on the street," said Brenda.

"Yeah, I guess," said Kelly.

"Or at your place," said Brenda.

"Yeah, I guess that'll work too," said Kelly.

"I'll tell you what; if you and Brandon don't want it, just let us know; we'll take it back," said Brenda.

Kelly turns and looks at Brenda briefly before turning her attention back to the road.

"No, it's not that. I'm sure it'll be fine. I'll...we'll see what Brandon says," said Kelly.

"Ok, thanks. We were a bit hesitant at first because we don't want Brandon to think that we think he wasn't going to get any better, which he will, of course. We just don't want him to think the wrong way," said Brenda.

"I agree," said Kelly.

"Thanks," said Brenda.

"No, thank you...this is one hell of a gift. It's so kind and generous of you guys," said Kelly.

"Well, don't tell him this but we really feel bad for him and everything that's happened. And we really think that he's going to benefit with this. He can now carry his wheelchair in it...plus it'll have plenty of room for Sammy, Winnie, and Silver too. You guys can go on a road trip together," said Brenda.

"Yeah, that's all very nice. Thank you again. I'm sure Brandon will love it," said Kelly.

"I hope so," said Brenda.

"Well, you two just crushed my gift to Brandon. In fact, I don't think anyone can top a new car," said Kelly smiling.

"If you don't mind me asking, what did you get him?" asked Brenda.

"I don't mind. I got him a shirt from the Gap," replied Kelly.

"Oh ok. I think he'll like it," said Brenda with a surprised look.

"Is it that bad?" asked Kelly notices Brenda reaction.

"No, I just said that he'll like it," replied Brenda.

"Do you think it's too simple? I mean, I know we're separated but I'm still his wife. I don't want to overdo it...or under do it," said Kelly.

"Kel, don't think too much of this. You're giving him a party, you gave him a beautiful son and daughter. What more can he ask for?" asked Brenda.

"Well, since you put it that way, thanks," replied Kelly.

"You're welcome. We sisters have to stick together," said Brenda.

"You still consider us sisters even though Brandon and I are...technically not together anymore?" asked Kelly.

"Kel, you started being my sister when we were in high school," replied Brenda smiling.

Kelly turns and smiles at Brenda.

"Thank you. That's very sweet. I considered you my sister too in high school," said Kelly.

"Yeah, remember our pact in high school? We're not going to let a guy get in the way of our friendship," asked Brenda.

"I thought that was just for Dylan," replied Kelly joking.

Brenda doesn't respond right away.

"Just kidding," said Kelly.

They both laugh.

"So, sister, do you mind if I share some news with you?" asked Brenda.

"More news? Did you get Brandon something else?" asked Kelly jokingly.

"No. Dylan and I have decided on a wedding date," replied Brenda.

"Oh great. Good for you guys. When is it?' asked Kelly.

"On Jan 12th," replied Brenda.

"Well, that's great. I'm really happy for you guys. Have you told Brandon already?' asked Kelly.

"No, actually you are the first to know," said Brenda.

"Oh, thanks. I suddenly feel so special," said Kelly smiling.

"Thanks. I wanted tell everyone but I don't know if Brandon would mind us telling this during his party," said Brenda.

"Oh, I don't think he would mind," said Brandon.

"Good...I also don't want him to overreact. I know that we had delayed the date until Brandon was better...but we just feel like we don't want to wait any longer," said Brenda.

"I'm sure he'll be fine. And it's not about him. This is about you and Dylan and what you two want," said Kelly.

"I know but I don't want him to be upset or stressed out over this," said Brenda.

"Bren, is it ok if I be honest with you?" asked Kelly.

"Yeah, of course," said Brenda.

"If anything, I think the news is going to help him. He was so stressed out about us and his work; and worried about letting down so many people. Now that you guys decided to get married before he's 100%, he's going to feel better knowing that he's not delaying your wedding further. That'll be one less thing for him to worry about," said Kelly.

Brenda stays silent for a moment.

"You make a very good point," said Brenda.

"I'm glad you see it my way," said Kelly.

"Yeah, I do. Thank you," said Brenda.

"Anytime, sister," said Kelly.

"So, I got your message. Are you sure? We have enough food. We got a huge cake. We can easily make this a joint birthday party," asked Kelly.

"Yeah, I'm sure. This should be all about Brandon," replied Brenda.

"Why?" You ok?" asked Kelly.

"I just feel like ever since Dylan and I announced our engagement, we've been the center of attention everywhere we go...and people kept asking me questions. So, I just as less attention as possible," replied Brenda.

"Ok...but you know this is about your birthday; we don't have to talk about your engagement," said Kelly.

"Still; I just want to blend in with the background," said Brenda.

"Oh, that's no fun...," said Kelly.

Brenda gives Kelly a serious look. Kelly notices.

"Ok, if that's how you feel about it," said Kelly.

"It is," said Brenda.

"Ok," said Kelly.

Kelly and Brenda walk into Lakeshore Physical Therapy.

Susan, the receptionist sees Kelly and waves to her. She is on the phone.

"This looks like a nice place," said Brenda.

"Yeah, it is. There he is," said Kelly pointing out Brandon.

Brenda smiles.

"We're early. Should we wait in the car or are they ok with us waiting here?" asked Brenda.

"Here's fine. It shouldn't be too long," replied Kelly taking a seat.

We can hear Bill loudly encouraging Brandon to work harder.

"C'mon Brandon. You can do it. Don't give up now," said Bill.

"Sounds like the army," said Brenda.

"Yeah, some of these personal trainers can be pretty tough," said Kelly.

"Tough is fine but should he be yelling at him like that?" asked Brenda.

"It's not really yelling. It's loud encouragement," replied Kelly joking.

"So, which one is Brandon's friend?" asked Brenda.

"All the way on the left," replied Kelly.

"Ah ok," said Brenda.

Tina sees Kelly and Brenda.

She gets onto her wheelchair and slowly makes her way to the front to Kelly and Brenda.

"Kelly, hi," said Tina.

"Hi Tina. How are you?' asked Kelly.

"Good. Nice to see you again," replied Tina.

"Good to see you too," said Kelly.

"This is Brenda...she's Brandon's sister," added Kelly introducing Brenda to Tina.

"Brenda, this is Brandon's friend, Tina," said Kelly introducing Tina to Brenda.

"Hi," said Tina and Brenda to each other.

"Tina, I hope your session here gave you a good appetite. We have plenty of food at the party," said Kelly.

"Oh, thanks for the invitation. I actually just told Brandon that I won't be able to make it," said Tina.

"Oh no. Is everything ok?" asked Kelly acting surprised and a little relieved.

"Yeah, everything's fine. It's just that….," replied Tina being a little anxious.

Kelly and Brenda notices.

"Sorry, I was trying to find the right words to say this," said Tina.

"No worries. If it's too personal, you don't need to tell us," said Kelly.

"Oh no, it's not that. Don't tell Brandon this because I don't want him to think I'm anti-social or something. But I'm not that big into parties or gatherings with strangers especially since I'm one of the only ones in a wheelchair. I usually stay by myself and I feel like an outcast. I usually spent the day by myself because I don't have a lot of friends. So, having to go to a party with a bunch of strangers is a little too overwhelming for me right now," said Tina.

"Tina, I understand. It's ok. We definitely don't want you to feel uncomfortable in any way," said Kelly.

"Thank you. And please don't tell Brandon this. He was sort of my only friend here…even though I think he sort of hates me right now for not coming to his party," said Tina.

"Thanks Tina. We won't say anything to Brandon. I'm sure he doesn't hate you," said Kelly.

"Thanks," said Tina giving Kelly a weak smile.

Tina starts to move away.

"Tina, wait," said Kelly suddenly.

Tina stops and turns around and comes back to Kelly.

"Yes?" asked Tina.

"I hope that I'm not the reason for you not being to come," said Kelly.

Tina looks uncomfortable and doesn't respond.

"Well; no…but," said Tina.

"Either way, I know that I didn't a first impression with you, Tina…and I just want to say that I'm sorry. I didn't mean to take my anger out on you. Brandon and I have been through a lot especially for the past few months. It's difficult. He's been through a lot; we both have," said Kelly interrupting Tina.

"I'm sorry; I 'm not trying to hurt him," said Tina.

"Good; because I'm not saying that at all. To be honest, I'm partially to blame for making things worse for Brandon…but ever since he met you, he's been a whole new person. He seems to be much happier and actually pleasant to talk to again. He actually reminds me of the man that I fell in love with," said Kelly.

Brenda shows a weak smile on her face but neither Kelly nor Tina notices.

"It's ok that you can't come but if you could at all, it would mean a lot to Brandon and it would make him really happy if you come and celebrate his birthday with him," said Kelly.

"Oh um…I don't know what to say," said Tina.

"Say you'll come and give it a chance…even for a few minutes would make him happy," said Kelly.

"I don't know; how many people will there be?" asked Tina.

"It'll be just friends and family. They're all very nice. You can be yourself. If at any point you feel uncomfortable in anyway, you can go. No questions asked," replied Kelly.

"Um…ok," said Tina.

"Great. I'm glad," said Kelly.

Brandon notices Kelly and Tina talking. He wipes his sweat off his forehead. He gets onto his wheelchair and goes towards them.

He then sees that Brenda is there too. He smiles.

"Hey Bren. I didn't know you and Dylan were back," smiled Brandon.

Brenda goes and hugs Brandon.

"Oh…..; maybe I'd better keep my distance for now," said Brenda accidently catching a whiff of Brandon's sweat.

"Sorry, I was going to remind you," said Brandon.

"It's ok. You looked good out there," said Brenda.

"Oh, I'm doing ok I guess," said Brandon.

"You looked great from here," said Brenda.

"When did you and Dylan get back?" asked Brandon.

"About an hour ago. We came straight here from the airport," replied Brenda.

"Well, you made great timing," said Brandon.

"Oh, I couldn't miss my brother's birthday party," said Brenda.

"I'm glad you could make it," said Brandon.

Brandon glances at Kelly and Tina.

"Hey Kel. Tina…looks like you two are getting along," said Brandon.

"Yeah. I was just telling Tina about the party," said Kelly.

"Yeah, too bad you couldn't come, Tina," said Brandon.

"Actually, my schedule suddenly opened up and I can come for a little while. That is if it's still ok," said Tina.

"Of course. So glad you can make it," said Brandon smiling.

"Well, if you'll excuse me, ladies; I'll go and take a quick wash and be right back," said Brandon.

"Ok," said Kelly.

"I guess I should go take one too," said Tina.

"Ok. We'll wait for you both here. Take your time," said Kelly.

Kelly and Brenda sit back down on the bench.

"That was a very nice thing you did," said Brenda.

"Thank you," said Kelly.

"I just think that you were a little too hard on yourself," said Brenda.

"About what?" asked Kelly confused.

"About you're the one who's making Brandon's life worse," replied Brenda.

"In a way it is. I let my uncertainty get the best of me. I could've acted against it and just went with my gut feelings that I still want to be with Brandon. But after Brandon's stint of using Winnie to get back at me, I lost it…and all I wanted to do was to get back at him," said Kelly.

"A few months have gone by now…you two seemed to have calmed down," said Brenda.

"Yeah. We were fighting for our chance to work and neither of us is working now. I just feel like I'm bringing us down. Look at my family, it seems like we're all over the place. People ask us if we're still together and I just don' t know what to tell them. And do you know what the worst part of this is?" asked Kelly.

"What?" asked Brenda.

"We don't even know what to tell our kids. They look at us confused because we are confused. It's so difficult not be able to explain it to our kids because we don't know how to explain it to ourselves," replied Kelly.

"I'm sorry," said Brenda.

"Me too…and I don't mean to bring you down on your engagement," said Kelly.

"It's ok," said Brenda.

"I'm really happy for you both," said Kelly.

"Thank you," said Brenda.

They both smile at each other.

To Be Continued…