"What is this all about?" Angela shrieked softly.

She is dressed in a cozy pink robe and is being slowly guided down the stairs by Tony. Her feet are snug in her pink bunny slippers, the eyes catching the light with every carefully placed step. Tony, with a reassuring grip around her waist, is holding his other hand over her eyes, ensuring she doesn't peek. He wants her to get the full effect of his surprise and from the perfect vantage point.

"Just keep 'ur eyes closed," Tony instructed.

"They closed, they're closed," she swore as she descended the last step and walked into the living room.

Her hair is adorned with a dainty, soft pink ribbon tied into a delicate bow - It matched her robe and slippers. She often wore them around the house, they added a touch of elegance to her otherwise casual look. The bow sits just above her ear, securing a small section of her hair - The rest cascading down in gentle waves.

"Okay okay, are ya ready?" He asked.

"Yeah," she assured as he released her from his grip.

"Open sesame…"

The living room is transformed into a magical Tahitian Twilight paradise. Soft, twinkling lanterns, casting a gentle glow over the room. Tropical palm trees with lush tissue paper greenery artfully arranged all around her creating a dreamy backdrop.

Angela's eyes widen in astonishment as she takes in the scene before her. Her mouth opens slightly in a gasp of surprise, and she brings her hands to her face, overwhelmed by the beauty and the effort Tony has put into this. She slowly turns, taking in every detail - the carefully chosen decorations and the overall ambiance that perfectly captures the theme of a Tahitian Twilight … II.

"Tony …" she whispers, turning back to meet his gaze.

"Angela Bower, THIS is your prom" he announces.

"Whattt?" she breathes.

"It's called Tahitian Twilight II" he explains, holding two fingers in the air.

Her eyes are filled with gratitude and amazement.

"You are so sweet." Her head shook side to side, deeply moved.

Tony takes a moment to enjoy her reaction, a warm smile on his face. He stepped over to the cassette player and as the music began, he asked her to dance.

Their bodies moved together in perfect harmony without an ounce of effort. The ease with which her hand just dangled from his, the seamless coordination, each step fluid and graceful. It was as if they moved as one. Angela was glowing - still captivated by the beauty of this gesture.

"You know Angela, this really is like your first prom" he pulled back slightly to look at her.

"What do you mean?" Angela asked, genuinely confused.

"Look, through the window," he pointed out towards the sky, "a full moon." She rolled her eyes, but couldn't stifle her laugh and Tony's face lit up in amusement.

"You think you're so funny," she teased, "are you done?"

Tony bit down on his lip and smirked.

She leaned back into him, her cheek next to his as they continued to move in unison to the beat of 'Ain't Nothing Like the Real Thing'. The voices of Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell filled the room. She sang along to the lyrics in her head, 'I played my game, a fantasy I pretend, but I know in reality I need the shelter of your arms to comfort me.' She snuggled in closer, the feeling of his strong, protective arms around her making her knees weak.

"Tony?" Angela pulled back creating a small space between them, "this really is very sweet of you. Thank you." Her eyes reflected the soft lighting in the room around them and with a tender smile, they looked deeply into each other's eyes, the connection between them palpable. He held her close and the music seemed to fade into the background as they shared this intimate moment.

She reflected on the last several months, quickly settling on Frankie. She wondered how serious he had really considered that proposal after everything they'd been through together. How can a man go through this much trouble for me and be in love with someone else? It just doesn't add up.

Then there was Geoffrey. She now asked herself if she had been seriously considering it or if perhaps she had gotten caught up and fallen in love with the idea of it all … but Geoffrey was not the right person. 'Only with the right person' she remembered them both agreeing.

She sighed absentmindedly and Tony turned slightly to look at her … but she was too lost in her thoughts to notice.

Angela thought about Dr Bellows and her confession - Questioning if she did the right thing by not telling him. Wondering where they'd be today if she had come clean. In the end, she was just grateful that he had once again chosen her … 'our family' she corrected. 'I could have lost him' she shivered in his arms as the realization struck, as it had many times since … and often.

"Are you cold?" Tony rubbed her arms trying to warm her up.

"No, not at all," she smiled warmly at him. 'Always looking out for me' she thought. "But if it means you'll hold me closer then yes." Her tone was playful and light, but her eyes told him otherwise.

"I'm starting to feel bad for dragging you out of bed. We don't have to keep dancin'."

She brushed a non-existent piece of fluff off his shoulder as a way to get her arms up and around his neck. She knew she was treading on thin ice. "I'm exactly where I want to be" she admitted and Tony felt his heart swell with her words.

He noticed the warmth of her head gently resting on his shoulder and thought about how right this all felt with her during these moments. 'Only during these moments. Kinda cruel,'he thought,'We could be so good together if we didn't have to face the rest of the world.' He too often wondered what Angela was about to say before Sam walked in. But he'd never ask. He had his suspicions and he wasn't prepared to broach any of it.

'Frankie was perfect for Tony.' Her mind, still tumbling around thoughts she couldn't string together. 'The Brooklyn, Italian beauty … the smart, elegant, successful Brooklyn, Italian beauty … she had it all. I wish I could have told Tony how I felt. But, perhaps it wasn't our time. There has to be a reason the universe sent in Sam to interrupt us.' She exhaled the thought away.

Tony pulled her closer to him. 'The course of true love never did run smooth.' Angela's words reverberated in his head.

Tony began to make circles on her back with his thumb. The small motion made her skin crawl. 'I am happy Frankie is out of our lives.' She thought. 'Love is important.' Tony's words came back to her. 'He didn't love Frankie.' She smiled against his cheek.

"Thank you Tony, this day has ended perfectly." She caresses between his shoulders.

"I'm glad you like it, Angela." His thumb, still making circles on her back.

"Tony, I love it! This is so … well, romantic." She shrugged bashfully.

"I guess for two people who ain't a couple, we do a lot of romantic things." He chuckled. But quickly regretted it when a sad smile briefly crossed her lips. He pulled her tightly into his arms once again wondering why he had such a hard time wrapping his head around giving into whatever this was constantly pulling them together.

His thoughts drifted to their argument at Christy and Lyle's wedding. For two people who aren't a couple they sure fought a lot like one too. He smiled, remembering the Rangers game in Madison Square Gardens. Angela furious and perched up on his lap. His smile turned into a grin.

"What are you thinking about? I can feel you smiling." Angela giggled but her hot breath on his ear sent shivers down his spine.

"The New York Rangers." He replied innocently.

"Well … there goes the romanc…'' before the words were out of her mouth Tony pulled back and suggestively looked her dead in her eyes. "Oh…" She nodded knowingly, "thooose Rangers."

Tony moved closer to her ear. "I wasn't thinking about the game though…" he whispered. Leaving Angela fighting to smoothly catch her breath despite the heat rising deep within her.

"Oh?" Was all she was able to mutter.

He gently twisted the hair at the nape of her neck around his finger sending chills through her body. Unable to resist, she surrendered to his touch, a soft moan slipping from her lips. Deep down, she would never openly acknowledge it, but she had missed his touch. There had been fleeting moments before, but this felt different. This felt like returning to the place where she belonged.

When the song came to an end, Tony squeezed her side and smiled. "Drink?"

"Yes please" an exasperated Angela breathed out.

As he walked into the kitchen she made her way to the window and looked up at the sky, remembering the last time they were alone under the light of a full moon. She felt her body respond to the memory. His exploration of her body that he seemed to know so well despite the few times they'd given in. 'Who knows what another full moon might bring us?' she wondered.

Tony returned holding a glass of wine in each hand and paused to admire her - She took his breath away. He watched a soft smile spread across the side of her face. Unable to resist, he walked up to her, embraced her from behind, and gently kissed her temple. "I don't think I mentioned this before," he began, "but you look absolutely stunning in the moonlight." Angela turned with an amused smile.

"Oh yes, I must be ravishing in my nightgown, robe and bunny slippers of all things." She blushed.

"Angela," his tone serious, "You'd look beautiful in a trash bag."

"What?" She giggled. "Well, thank you... I guess."

"And those slippers..." Tony grinned, "irresistible." Angela laughed and shook her head. "Drink?" He offered her a glass, which she gladly began sipping.

"Tony?"

"Hmm?"

"Do you remember that night on the billboard?" Angela needed a way to lighten the tension she felt building up.

"That is not something I will soon," he paused, "… possibly ever forget!" He snickered. "We said it all that night didn't we?"

"Yes, well, we don't often get to be alone. I guess we have to take advantage when the opportunities present themselves."

"And I learned some very important things about you that night too." He teased. Her jaw dropped anticipating what it was this time. "Like … your fear of heights." He laughed. "That was new."

"Yes well, to be fair I didn't realize that billboards were that high." She still felt slightly embarrassed.

"Angela! You are in advertising!" Tony started to laugh.

She had no defense for that so she flipped the narrative "Are you laughing at my fear?" She asked indignantly.

"Oh no, I am not laughing about your fear, Angela." He replied honestly "I actually just remembered the call from Eddie!"

"The call!" Angela's eyes widened in mocked horror as she too burst out laughing.

"That was mean of you..."

"Me!? No way, you had it coming." She winked and without hesitation continued, "I liked Eddie," she said. Tony felt a pang of jealousy, though he couldn't quite understand why. He was quite sure Eddie didn't exist… yes … quite sure. "He was a bit rough around the edges, but he has a good heart." She noticed him tense up. "But he doesn't hold a candle to you," she whispered in his ear, and he immediately relaxed. "You're a much better cook," she teased.

"I'll be sure to stay on top of the menu then," came tumbling out of him, thick with the jealousy he was trying to hide. 'You have no idea what you do to me, woman!' he thought, feeling a mix of frustration and desire.

"Tony, you can't be serious."

"What?"

"You know he's not real … right?"

"I know," he retorted.

"I think it's cute when you get jealous," her hand touched her lips. That was not meant to come out.

Tony's eyes darted to hers amused but also a little annoyed and Angela picked up on it.

"I just mean that you tend to be protective of the people you lo … care for. Sam, Jonathan, mother, me … It's nice to feel cared for. You being jealous … in a way … shows you care. About me. And that's a nice feeling."

The voice of Percy Sledge filled the room with 'When a man loves a woman'.

Tony got animated, turned his wine glass into a microphone and sang along "... Can't keep his mind on nothin' else. He'd trade the world. For the good thing he's found."

"I love this song." Angela joined in trying to lighten the mood.

Tony reflected on his feelings for Angela. With Marie, everything had been straightforward—he loved her, he married her. It was that simple. But this was different, despite his wishes for it to be simple - it just wasn't.

She was so full of love and so kindhearted, it had nearly broken him to see her expression when she told him about her own prom night. He was amazed by the lengths she had gone to make Sam's prom unforgettable. His heart swelled with so much love and gratitude for her that it ached. When Sam and Jesse left, he noticed the wistful look in her eyes and knew exactly what he was going to do.

"Hey Ange?"

"Hmmm?"

"What's the true story behind Sam's dress?" He knew there was more to it because after the initial excitement she had been quiet and avoided conversation with him all day. Which happened to work out to his benefit since she went up to bed early but now that the surprise was executed he wanted to know what really happened.

"Uh, it mostly went exactly as I told you earlier."

"Mmhmm … and … what about the part that didn't go exactly as you told me earlier?"

She inhaled deeply. "I ran into Frankie at the boutique."

"Ah …" Tony replied.

Tony embraced her once more, and Angela was overwhelmed with emotions as they swayed to the music. She marveled at how he had managed to get everything just right and so quickly. No man had ever done anything this romantic for her. Tony filled her with such a whirlwind of feelings that it sometimes left her breathless.

"Are you going to elaborate?" He pressed.

"Do I have to?"

"No … I guess not. But you might feel better if we talked about it," he offered.

"I think we said all that needed to be said on the matter up on that billboard." There was nothing that wasn't said that night. Tony's run in with Frankie was no different from her time with Geoffrey. She understood. It was hard to pause your entire life for something so fleeting … so undefined … so … elusive. Their steps, still moving in perfect unison to the music they were no longer hearing. "It was just … weird seeing her. You know?"

"Tony nodded. I do know." He too had his moments of struggle. "But I also don't want you to feel like you can't talk to me about things like that if they bother you." Not that he ever opened up to her about it. He was always so afraid of where the conversations might lead.

"Tony, I know that our relationship is an intricate mess. I know there are going to be some really hard days but I also know that we have some really great days. Thankfully, the vast majority of them are great! You said it yourself - better to live out my days regretting that we did, then to look back one day and regret that we didn't - right?"

Tony inhaled a sharp breath, "right," he agreed.

She longed for him to confess his feelings. Despite Dr. Bellows' warnings, she yearned to hear him say it first. She knew she loved him deeply, and no one else could ever fill her heart the way he did. Tonight, after seeing the lengths he went to, she was certain he felt the same. She just wished he would say it. She didn't want to force it though; she wanted his confession to come freely from his heart, naturally and unclouded by any pressure. But, as the years passed, she didn't know how much longer she could play this game either.

"Well, despite all that, you really came through for Sam today and I can't thank you enough." Tony said, pulling back slightly to look her in the eyes. His grip never loosening around her.

"Tony … there is nothing I wouldn't do for her," Angela replied.

"I know, and Angela, you have no idea what that means to me."

"She's our little girl, Tony," Angela said with tears in her eyes.

"I know," Tony said nodding in agreement "she really is" he reaffirmed and he meant it. Not that it wasn't true before the paperwork was filed but now it was official. So no … he didn't love Frankie … how could he possibly fall in love with anyone else?

"And thank you, for this … for tonight," she looked all around the room, taking it in once again.

"I want you to have nothing but happy memories Angela," Tony said softly. "If you let me, I'll rewrite every bad experience with something beautiful."

With that, Angela leaned in and kissed him tenderly. "Tony sweetheart, that's impossible but I appreciate the thought."

The word sweetheart, that so casually slipped from her tongue, lingered in the air between them. There was no way they were parting as just friends tonight. They were more than just friends and always would be.

Their lips came together again in tender surrender, one minute, two, three, they lost track of time as they melted into each other in the moonlight. She just couldn't get enough of what he was making her feel.

She found the seam of his shirt and ran her hands up inside and across his bare back as she nipped at his lips.

His grip tightened around her waist and he pulled her closer, placing butterfly kisses along her jaw to her ear where he softly tugged at her lobe. Kissing and caressing the sensitive spot on her neck.

"Tony," she sighed and pulled him closer, her hands resting beneath his shirt on his shoulder blades.

"Angela, we can't get carried away, the kids … Mona will be home sometime," he said reluctantly.

"Sam will likely beat Mother home and Jonathan won't be home until tomorrow night," she replied, taking his lips in hers once again in an attempt to shut down all the coherent reasoning going on inside his head.

Tony stopped resisting, letting his tongue find its way into her mouth.

"I want to be with you," Angela whispered with heavy, desire filled eyes when they broke apart for air.

Tony released her and stepped back, holding her at arm's length. He tilted his head, marveling at the beautiful woman who had stepped up and become a mother to his daughter. He couldn't, wouldn't deny her. Reaching out, he cupped her cheek, gazing at her in awe.

"Ange, we don't have all night, I'll have to clean up," he said, trying one last time to throw reason into the moment.

"I'll help you, we'll have plenty of time, it's a long way till dawn," she bargained but Tony wasn't sold. "Tony … I want you." She pleaded.

That was the tipping point.

He worked his sneakers off and kicked them toward the TV. She took his hand wanting to lead him from the living room, up the stairs and to his bedroom...

But they didn't make it.

They stood facing each other at the bottom of the stairs. She backed him into the banister and took his lips in a slow sensual kiss, reaching around him to pull off his shirt up and over his head. She released his lips only long enough for the shirt to fly off and land on the armrest of the chair behind her.

"Angelaaaa" he pulled away. She looked at him incredulously. "What if someone comes home, how are we gonna clean all of this up quickly if you throw my clothes all over the place?"

"Tony …" she was in utter disbelief that he was still able to function because right now she'd have their clothes spread out all over this house and they'd be making a much bigger mess all over that couch if it were up to her. "If you are still concerned with any of this that could only mean I'm still wearing way too many clothes." She eyed him seductively and began tugging at the robe.

She was such a beautiful sight, standing there in her pink robe, bunny slippers, and for a moment he lost himself in the fantasy of them. He grinned at her.

"Ugh, finally! I know that grin" she teased.

"Pleasant memories," he deadpanned.

"Of me?" she smiled innocently and bit down on her bottom lip knowing all too well what it did to him.

"Always of you," he whispered, wrapping her in his arms and taking her lips with a desperation she had never known.

"Hmmmm," Angela hummed in contentment.

Tony pulled back and rewarded her reaction with a slow sensual kiss that made her toes curl. She knew the spell wouldn't last. These moments came all too infrequent and she was determined to savour every moment.

She ran her hands up his arms around his shoulder and then down his muscular back. She kissed him, pulling at his plump lips. He put his arms around her slender waist and pulled her close moving from her jawline to her ear. Tony slowly opened up her robe, slid it off her shoulders and down her arms until it was neatly pooled around their feet. Angela mischievously kicked it away with her foot and smirked against his lips.

"Woman you are insufferable … Mmm the silk one, my favourite," he whispered, quickly distracted, his hot breath sending shivers through her.

Her hands lowered and ran over the top of his jeans, teasing his lower back. He took her in, she was perfection, standing there in her silk gown, Tony's hands itched in anticipation of the feel of lace, silk and skin against his hands.

She stood back and kicked off her bunny slippers.

"Not the slippers" he mumbled against her lips.

She pulled away amused "I'm not sure that's a fetish I could get on board with…" but he reclaimed her lips before the words could leave her mouth.

She ran her hands from his hips, across his hard abs, and up his chest running through the soft dark curls. She leaned in and nipped at his collarbone, gently suckling against him.

Tony stood rooted, enjoying her sensual ministrations, his hands running up and down her bare arms taking in her scent. She smelled of lavender and honeydew and it was driving him wild. He pulled slightly to bring her mouth to his and poured his heart into that kiss.

He kissed her over to the sofa and released her lips only to kneel in front of her. Their eyes heated as they looked into each other. He slowly raised her left foot off the floor and ran his hand up her calf, caressing the tender flesh. Not releasing her eyes, he sat her left foot down and slightly lifted the right. This time, caressing his way to her knee.

Tony reached down and slid the hem of her nightgown up her legs placing soft, wisp-like kisses on every new inch of exposed flesh. Her knees came into view, and he continued moving the gown upward. He ran his hands sensually up the sides of her outer thighs, under the gown, to her waist. When he found the top of her silk panties he started to tug on them. Angela raised her hips and he slowly pulled them down her long, slender legs, kissing her thighs, the sides of her knees, until the panties were discarded on the floor. Angela slowly parted her legs and threw her head back as Tony leaned in and ran tender kisses along her inner thighs.

Angela shifts back on the couch, her head rolling further back in pleasure. Tony followed her, moving from her parted thighs to her stomach through her gown. She looked down at him and caressed his hard back. Tony rose slightly to take her lips in a hot, open mouthed kiss. He pulled at the night gown until it was bunched around her waist, then continued until it was completely over her head, leaving her naked to his gaze. He kissed her lips, then trailed down her neck before taking her breasts into his mouth, his hands grazing around her waist and up her silky smooth back as she arched in delight.

Angela ran her hands around his shoulders and down his back. She pulled him up by his cheeks, placing her hot mouth on his in a long sensual kiss. Her hands resting against his waist teasing the tops of his jeans. She pulled him upwards, their lips parting in a pop, she stared up at him and he caressed the side of her face. Angela then sensually undid the button of jeans and carefully tugged on his zipper, the jeans following shortly after. Tony took his cue, and removed them completely, along with his socks, before locking lips with her once again.

Angela's body was on fire and she needed a release. She pulled off his briefs and stood up next to him, then in one swift motion took his lips in hers and pushed him down onto the sofa. Never taking her lips off of his, she straddled his lap and they were both naked against each other. Angela savoured the feeling of his hot flesh trembling beneath her fingertips.

"Tony, I know it's complicated, but at this moment, if we don't think about tomorrow … Does this make you happy?" she whispered in his ear.

"You make me happy," he replied, showering her shoulders with kisses.

Angela leaned down and took his mouth in a searing kiss, lining her center up on top of his. She teased his lips with her breasts and tortured him with a slow sensual dance. She kissed his chin, down his Adam's apple, past his collarbones, down the center of chest and stomach until she was kneeling on the floor.

Angela cocked her head to the side, biting her lip at the sight of his perfect aroused body. She ran her fingers down his stomach, across his hip bones and caressed his outer thighs. Tony looked at her with hooded passion. He couldn't take it and pulled her crashing their lips together and devouring her mouth. She was his essence and he wished they could just disappear into another time and place, where their lines weren't so blurred and confusing. He grabbed her waist and lifted her gently on top of him as he sucked on her ever tempting bottom lip. He ran his hand up her smooth silky leg, cupping her thigh and parting her legs to straddle his now painful arousal.

She smiled down at him, running her hand through his hair and down his cheek to his chest where she leaned down to place a searing kiss over his heart.

"Tony," she whispered.

She pulls herself up and straddles a top of him once more, running her hands down his stomach tracing each muscle.

"Hmm?" The only response he was able to produce at this moment.

Tony could feel the heat coming off of her, just hovering above the area he most wanted her to be on. He shifted slightly and unintentionally pressed gently against her as he did and that was her undoing…

With zero recollection of the message that sentence had originally set out to deliver, Angela rises, reaches between them to take him in her hands and lowered herself onto him. They both hissed at the sensation of finally being joined once more. They couldn't deny the pull. The need to surrender to the irresistible chemistry between them was overwhelming.

Angela rocked her hips against him, Tony brought his hands to her chest and caressed her as she made love to him. Their rhythm momentarily interrupted as their tongues duel. He runs his hands up and across her sensual back as she starts to tenderly move against him once more. Angela pulls her mouth away and sits up, her back arched against his strong grip on her lower back. He watches her with each thrust - how she rolls her head in abandonment, the thin sheen of moisture collecting on her skin, he glances at the place of their joining, the place where she has claimed him.

"Mmm, Tony," she sighs, shifting and switching to a circular motion on top of him.

"Ah Ange," Tony moans, throwing his head back in pleasure as this new sensation sends chills rippling through his entire body.

Tony leans forward and she wraps her legs around his waist.

"I will never be able to walk past this couch again without getting a hard on," he admits, drunk with passion.

He slides his arms through hers and cups her shoulders in his hands tilting her back and watches himself slip in and out of her. Leaning in be begins trailing kisses aimlessly until he catches a nipple gently between his teeth. His tongue teasing and swirling to the same beat as the dance below. He pulls her close, mouthes joined once more and their chests rubbing against each other, the soft feel of her breasts against the hard calluses on his hands. He reaches for her perfect back, grasping her shoulders and laying his head back, breathing harshly as he began to match her rhythm, increasing the urgency of his strokes.

"Oh God, Ange," he was incoherent with pleasure but needed to feel her come undone around him.

"Mmm Tony, I'm so close," she whispered against his damp hair line as her down thrusts met his upward strokes.

He tilted slightly now, stimulating her at a different angle. Her head fell forward as she cried out. Knowing she was there, Tony pulled her close taking her screams of passion in a deep kiss as he wrapped his arms around her waist and plunged into the delicious abyss of ecstasy. Angela rode her orgasm and her liquid heat consumed him bringing him to the brink as he released inside her.

They stilled. Their bodies covered in sweat, breaths coming harshly. As they tenderly ran their hands across each other's back, they slowly came back down from the bliss. Tony kissed the side of her head, her shoulders, her neck, anywhere he could reach.

"Ange, that was…" Tony trailed off breathlessly.

"I know," she whispered softly.

Angela didn't move from his lap, foreheads pressed together as their breathing continued to settle. They each took their turn showering the other with kisses.

"Everytime, it just gets more…" Tony paused, not quite able to find the words.

"It does," she finished for him. Knowing exactly what it was he wanted to say but also unable to find the words herself.

"Ange, I, l ah," he trailed off. He couldn't say it. Even now. Even though he knew in his heart that he loved her with every fiber of his being, he was still too scared. Too insecure. "I care about you. A lot." He compromised.

"I care about you too Tony." She replied, her voice catching as she realized that he was so close to opening up. But still so far. "Thank you,' she said tenderly.

"Eh oh! … you did all the work," He tried to lighten the mood but struggled. She didn't owe him anything. He owed her! - Everything! and the one thing he knew she wanted most, he couldn't seem to be able to give her. He was ashamed. On so many levels, he was ashamed.

"Thank you for rewriting an old memory with a much better one," she specified, leaning down to place a soft kiss on his lips.

"I only want you to have good memories Angela" he said once their lips parted.

She nodded, still too wrapped in the emotion.

"Just hold me," she whispered.

"Always," he replied, closing his arms tighter around her waist.

In the softly lit living room, adorned with palm trees and twinkling lanterns that so perfectly set the scene for Angela's Tahitian Twilight redo, they held each other close on the sofa. The gentle strains of Unchained Melody played in the background, adding a nostalgic touch to the intimate setting.

The room was a beautiful blend of colors and lights, with Angela's scent of lavender and honeydew filling the air. It was serene, almost magical, as they lay entwined, thoughts of their intimacy still lingering when a heavy silence settled over them. The bittersweet reality of their situation weighed on their hearts, knowing that soon they would have to part and return to the facade of "just being friends". This room, once filled with the joy of overwritten memories, now seemed to echo with the unspoken words and torturous emotions of their decision to live this double life. The flickering lanterns cast dancing shadows on the walls, mirroring the turmoil within them. Each note of the music seemed to pull at their heartstrings, a reminder of the love they share but could not openly express. As they held each other tighter, they silently vowed to cherish these stolen moments.

With a reluctant sigh, they slowly disentangled themselves, the warmth of their embrace almost immediately turned cold. Angela glanced at the clock, the reality of time pressing upon them.

"We should start cleaning up before Sam comes home," she whispered, her voice tinged with regret and he was so happy that she did it because he had been hesitating himself for the last ten minutes.

He nodded, his eyes reflecting the same sorrow.

Together, they began to tidy the room, their movements synchronized as always. The lanterns were carefully extinguished, the palm trees broken down, and the cushions fluffed back to their original state. The scent of lavender and honeydew gradually faded, replaced by the crisp, clean smell of a freshly tidied home.

As they worked through this shared task, it brought a sense of normalcy, a brief respite from the emotional storm. By the time they finished, the room looked as if the magical evening had never happened. They exchanged a final, lingering glance, a silent promise of future stolen moments, before stepping back into their roles as friends.

"Did you find your panties?" he asked.

"Sure did … under the sofa." she bashfully admitted but it didn't stop her from lifting up her nighty to show him. "Did you get the sock I found in the cushions?"

He lifted his foot and wiggled his sock worn toes.

They sat next to each other on the sofa with tea in their hands and turned on the TV. Tony put on a movie to watch together as they waited up for Sam.

Needless to say, when Samantha walked through the door Tony was laying up against the armrest of the couch and Angela tucked right in between his arms with her head on his chest - both sound asleep.

Samantha quietly opened the back door, trying not to make too much noise and stepped inside to find Mona sitting at the kitchen table with a cup of tea.

"Hey! What are you doing here?" Sam asked pleasantly surprised to see her.

"I figured somebody should be up waiting for you." Her eyebrows raised.

"What?" Sam asked incredulously "Dad's not waiting up for me!?" she never would have believed it had she not seen it with her own eyes when Mona pointed her in the direction of the living room.

She peeked in through the swinging door. The familiar scent of lavender and honeydew greeted her, a comforting reminder of Angela's presence in their lives. She tiptoed into the living room, expecting to find her dad and Angela watching TV. Instead, she was met with a sight that made her heart swell with a mix of emotions.

There they were, sound asleep on the couch. Her dad was leaning against the armrest, and Angela was nestled comfortably in his arms, her head resting on his chest. They looked so peaceful, so right together. Samantha couldn't help but smile at the sight.

She loved Angela like a mom. Angela had always been there for her, offering advice, support, and a shoulder to cry on. Samantha had long suspected that there was something more than friendship between her dad and Angela. She had seen the way they looked at each other, the way they seemed to understand each other without words. It was obvious to her that they had feelings for each other, even if they hadn't admitted it to themselves yet.

As she stood there, watching them sleep, Samantha wondered when they would finally acknowledge what was so clear to her. She hoped it would be soon.

With a soft sigh, Samantha decided to let them rest a little longer. She quietly made her way back to the kitchen and joined Mona with her own cup of tea.

Mona was excited to hear all about Sam's prom, "so kiddo, tell me all about your evening!"

"It was good," Samantha replied, her thoughts still lingering on her Dad and Angela.

"Good?" Mona asked, surprised at Sam's lack of enthusiasm and words.

She hesitated for a moment before asking, "Do you think those two will ever admit what we all know?"

Mona's eyes twinkled with understanding. She set her teacup down and leaned back in her chair, considering Samantha's question.

"Ah kiddo, love can be a complicated thing, dear," she began. "Sometimes, people are afraid to admit their feelings because they're scared of what might change. Your father and Angela have a special bond, and I think deep down, they both know how they feel about each other."

Samantha nodded, feeling a sense of relief at Mona's words. "I just wish they would see it too."

Mona reached out and gently patted Samantha's hand. "Give them time, sweetheart. Sometimes, the heart needs a little nudge to find its way. But I believe that when the time is right, they'll realize what we've all known for so long. Until then, we just have to play the game along with them and cherish the moments we have together as a family."

Samantha smiled, feeling a bit more hopeful. "I hope you're right."

The buzzing and bright colours of the screen of death (hahahah been dying to use this in a story for years!) signaling the end of programming invaded the living room, pulling Angela and Tony from their slumber. Angela stirred first, blinking sleepily as she realized she was still nestled in Tony's arms. She smiled softly, savouring the warmth and comfort of the moment before nudging him awake.

"Tony, wake up," she whispered, her voice barely above a murmur. "I hear voices, I think Samantha's home!"

Tony groaned softly, his eyes fluttering open. He glanced around, momentarily disoriented, before his gaze settled on Angela. A slow smile spread across his face as he remembered where he was. "Hey," he said, his voice husky with sleep.

"Hey," Angela replied, her smile mirroring his. "I think Sam's in the kitchen!" The excitement in her voice filled Tony's heart with love.

They disentangled themselves from their cozy embrace once again and quietly made their way to the kitchen, following the sound of the voices. As they entered, they saw Samantha sitting at the table with Mona.

"Hey, Sam," Tony greeted, his voice warm and affectionate. "How was prom?" He asked while placing a kiss on the top of her head.

Samantha looked up, her face lighting up with a smile. "It was amazing, Dad. We had so much fun. The decorations were beautiful, and the music was great. I danced all night!"

Angela leaned against the counter, her eyes twinkling with curiosity. "Did you take lots of pictures?"

"Of course," Samantha replied, her excitement evident. "Will you take me tomorrow to get them developed Angela?"

"Of course sweetheart," she promised. Her lip curled into a smile as she remembered calling Tony sweetheart earlier in the night. She looked at him to find him wearing the same smile.

Samantha blushed, feeling the warmth of her love and support. "Thanks, Angela. It was a night I'll never forget. Thanks to you." She stood from her chair and wrapped her arms around Angela. "Thank you SO much for the dress. All the girls went crazy when they saw it."

"I'm so glad sweetheart," Angela placed a kiss on the top of her head.

They spent the next few minutes chatting about the prom, Samantha sharing all the details while Tony and Angela listened with rapt attention. The kitchen was filled with laughter and stories … and family. Angela looked to Tony and he gave her a knowing wink.

After getting Samantha to bed - which was no easy feat as she was still so excited from her night - Tony and Angela stood in the dimly lit hallway, the soft glow of the nightlight casting gentle shadows on their faces. The evening had been perfect—filled with laughter, deep conversations, and a sense of closeness that neither wanted to end.

Angela looked up at Tony, her eyes sparkling with warmth. "Tonight was really special, Tony. Thank you."

Tony smiled, his heart swelling with affection. "Yeah, it was. I can't remember the last time I felt this… content."

They stood there for a moment, the silence between them comfortable and full of unspoken words. Tony reached out and gently tucked a strand of Angela's hair behind her ear, his touch lingering for just a second longer than necessary.

"Goodnight, Angela," he said softly, his voice filled with tenderness.

"Goodnight, Tony," she replied, her voice equally soft. She took a step back, her hand trailing down his arm before finally letting go.

As they turned to go to their separate rooms, both felt a sense of longing, but also a deep sense of peace. They knew that whatever the future held, they had this moment—a moment of pure, unfiltered connection.

XXXXXXX

The living room was bathed in the soft, golden light of the late afternoon sun, casting long shadows across the floor. The air was still, with only the faint hum of the refrigerator breaking the silence. As the light shifted, a small, delicate pink hair ribbon peeked out from underneath the edge of the plush, cream-colored flower print cushion.

The ribbon was slightly frayed at the ends, hinting at its frequent use. Its position suggested it had been hastily tucked away, perhaps in a moment of careless abandon. It seemed to whisper of hidden stories and untold secrets, waiting patiently to reveal its significance.

As the family gathered in the living room over the course of the next few days, the ribbon's presence became more pronounced as the cushions shifted from use. It was a small detail, easily overlooked, but to the keen observer, it was a clue—a hint of something more. The ribbon held a secret, one that could change everything once it was found and its story uncovered.

A/N: Apologies for the screen of death outburst lol and also for the ridiculous amount of detail on the hair ribbon but if you know me you know I'm completely obsessed with Angela and those damn irresistible hair ribbons. Hope you enjoyed it!