Acceptance

[fol_fan1989]

Hello!
I've started watching and loving FOL again, and it's inspired me to start a new fanfic. I know this board hasn't been active in over a year, so I don't know if anyone is even interested or will see this, but I wrote this this afternoon and thought I'd share.
This is sort of a continuation of a fic I wrote over a decade ago, with the focus being more on Jo and her two daughters, Jamie and Julia. Of course the other FOL girls and MRS. G will be part of it.

***
Chapter One

Jo sat on the couch in Blair’s living room, waiting for her friend to come downstairs.
“Blair,” she called. “We’re going to be late.”
“How do I look,” Blair sang as she came down the stairs dressed in a pink sweater and jeans.
“You look fine. Come on. I told Jamie and Julia we’d be there ten minutes ago. Natalie and Tootie are already there.”
“You’re just anxious because Julia said she has news.”
“No, I’m annoyed because you made me pick you up and are making me late to dinner with my daughters and our friends.”
Blair put on her coat, and they left.

The Chug-a-Lug bar had been turned into an Italian restaurant decades ago, and every time they returned, Jo was still impressed by the transformation. She and Blair greeted Natalie and Tootie excitedly at a table in the back.
“Where are my girls,” Jo asked.
“They had to visit the little girls room,” Natalie said. “There they are.”
Jo turned around and grinned at her twin daughters as they approached. Julia walked confidently with her cane in one hand and holding onto Jamie’s elbow with the other. Cancer had taken her eye sight when she was a toddler, and Jo had done her best to make sure Jamie and Julia had grown up with the same opportunities and same treatment. They were seniors at Eastland now, where Jo, Blair, Natalie, and Tootie had begun their life-long friendship.
“Hi, Mom,” Jamie said brightly.
Jo greeted and hugged each of her daughters, and they took their seats. Jo sat between Julia and Blair. Jamie sat on Julia’s other side, with Natalie beside her. Tootie sat between Natalie and Blair.
“So, Julia, I’m dying to know,” Jo said once they’d been served drinks. “What’s your big news?”
“Well, I found out last week they’re naming me valedictorian at Eastland.”
Excitement erupted at the table as everyone congratulated Julia.
“I’m so proud of you,” Jo said, leaning over and kissing Julia on the cheek. She’d fought like hell to make sure Julia had every accommodation she needed to be successful at Eastland, and it had paid off.
“You’re a chip off the old block,” Tootie said. “You know your mom was valedictorian.”
“I know,” Julia smiled proudly.
“Are you both excited for graduation,” Blair asked after everyone had been served salad.
Jamie nodded. Jo noticed she’d been quiet the whole evening.
“I’m excited to not have to live with Erika anymore. She keeps moving my things and not telling me,” Julia said. “The other day I was late to class because I couldn’t find my tie.”
“I told you I’d talk to her for you,” Jamie said. “With my words or my fists, whatever’s necessary.”
“You’re a chip off the old block, too,” Natalie said. Everyone laughed.
“It’s okay,” Julia said. “Next year you and I will room together at Langley. You wouldn’t dare move anything without telling me.”
“No, I learned my lesson about that a long time ago.” Jamie took a bite of her lasagna before changing the subject. “Aunt Nat, how’s the newspaper biz?”
“It’s dying,” Natalie said sadly. “I’m going to have to find a new job soon. My editor’s been laying people off left and right.”
“Well,” Jamie said. “If you’re interested, I heard Langley is looking for a new Creative Writing instructor. I’d take your class.”
“Professor Green does have a nice ring to it,” Tootie said.
“It might be too late in the year to do anything for the Fall, but I’ll keep it in mind. Thanks, Jamie.”
Jo knew that Jamie had developed an interest in writing thanks to Natalie, but she wasn’t sure it was a stable career path for her. She didn’t want either of the twins to struggle like her parents had.
They talked and laughed through dinner, and after they’d settled the check and said good-bye to Natalie and Tootie, Jo pulled Jamie aside.
“Are you okay, sweetie? You’ve been kind of quiet tonight. Are you upset Julia got valedictorian?”
“Of course not! Julia works harder than anyone I know. She deserves it. There’s no competition here. We both got into Langley.”
“And I’m so proud of both of you for that.” Jo hugged Jamie tightly. “Is anything else bothering you?”
“No. It’s nothing. Julia and I should get back to the dorms so we don’t miss curfew.”
“Okay,” Jo sighed. “I love you two. I’ll see ya soon.”
Jamie and Julia said good-bye, and Jo and Blair walked back to Jo’s car.
“Well, what a nice evening,” Blair said happily as Jo pulled out of the parking lot.
“Yeah,” Jo said quietly.
“Julia had wonderful news. Why aren’t you jumping up and down?”
“Something’s up with Jamie, and I don’t know what.”
“What are you going to do? Follow them back to Eastland and spy on her?”
Jo let out a little laugh. “Oh, Blair. That’s so juvenile.”
“Isn’t that what we would have done once upon a time?”
“Maybe, but we’ve matured since then. I have to let her come to me on her own.”
“Jo, you’ve done beautifully raising both of them. You have a good relationship with them. She’ll come to you.”
“Thanks, Blair. You know I couldn’t have raised them without you, Natalie, Tootie, and Mrs. G.”
“Have you heard from Mrs. Garret lately?”
“No, but she’s coming for graduation.”
Jo pulled up in front of Blair’s house, and they said their good-byes.

[fol_fan1989]

Chapter Two

Jamie dropped Julia off at her dorm and walked to the other end of the building where her room was. She could see light coming from underneath the door, so her roommate, McKenzie, was up.
“Hi,” McKenzie greeted her brightly.
“Hey,” Jamie said quietly. She took off her shoes and hung up her coat.
“How was dinner with your mom and aunts?”
“Fine.” Jamie turned to her. “You didn’t have to wait up, you know?”
“I wasn’t going to be able to fall asleep anyway.” McKenzie sat on Jamie’s bed.
Jamie sat beside her on the purple floral bedspread.
“So, did you tell her?”
“I couldn’t,” Jamie said, lowering her head. “Not in front of everyone in the middle of a restaurant. Not with Julia’s news.”
“Jamie,” McKenzie whined.
Jamie looked at her when McKenzie took her hand. Her long blonde hair cascaded over her shoulders. She was barefoot and wore black running shorts with a faded blue Eastland t-shirt that brought out her eyes.
“You have to tell her eventually.” McKenzie’s voice was soft.
“I know, but I’m scared. If I come out to her, I’ll also have to tell her about us. She’ll be so mad…”
“It’s going to be okay.”
“Easy for you to say. Your parents are lesbians. I bet they were thrilled when you came out to them.”
“They were not thrilled,” McKenzie replied flatly.
“Sorry, I know it was rough for a while.”
“It’s never easy to come out to anyone, James. But I know this has been eating you up, and eventually it’s going to be more painful to keep everything inside than it will to just tell her.”
Jamie closed her eyes and nodded. She felt McKenzie’s soft hand on her cheek and moved closer. McKenzie closed the gap between them, and their kiss shot electricity through Jamie’s body, making her heart flutter.
Jamie clung to her and kissed McKenzie hard. She pulled away to catch her breath before she kissed her gently on the mouth.
“Will you lay with me until I fall asleep?” Jamie asked in a whisper.
Jamie knew even asking was risky, especially this close to graduation. It wasn’t something they did often, since two girls in the same bed was strictly prohibited according to Eastland dormitory policy. They never did more than kiss, and they were always clothed, either spooning or lying on their backs holding hands under the covers. When one of them fell asleep, the other got up and slept in the bed on the opposite side of the room, lest they get caught by staff doing nighttime checks.
“Okay,” McKenzie replied, gently brushing hair away from Jamie’s face.

[fol_fan1989]

Chapter Three

“I can’t believe I let you talk me into this,” Jamie said from where she sat in the passenger seat of her mother’s car.
“Jamie, I know this isn’t your thing—it’s not my idea of a good time, either. But you two need dresses to wear to graduation.”
“Yeah, Jamie,” Julia said from the backseat. “What are you going to do? Go commando?”
Jo chuckled.
“Julia,” Jamie protested.
“Now girls, don’t start. Come on. We’re late. Blair’s probably bought out the whole first floor of Macy’s by now.”
“Aunt Blair’s joining us?” Julia asked. She opened the car door and unfolded her cane; the clicks it made as the sections came together reverberated off of the parking garage walls.
“I made the mistake of mentioning to her that we were doing this today, and she invited herself along,” Jo replied. “Come on.”
A few minutes later, they found Blair in the dress section of Macy’s, her arms already loaded with options.
Jo rolled her eyes.
“She’s got, like, twenty dresses already,” Jamie whispered to her sister. “Maybe this won’t be so bad.”
After exchanging greetings, Blair started holding up the dresses she had in her arms. “Jamie, what do you think?”
“I just want something simple,” Jamie replied. “None of those look simple.”
“Julia, come with me,” Blair said. “I’ll tell you about what I’ve found so far.”
Jo felt relieved that Blair had come. It might mean they were there longer, but Blair would patiently explain every dress to Julia in ways that Jo couldn’t. She knew more than one name for colors and was always up on the current styles.
Jo flipped through a few dresses on a rack and pulled one out. “What about this, Jamie?”
Blair looked up. “Jo, that’s black. It’s a graduation, not a funeral.”
Jo rolled her eyes. “They have it in other colors, Blair. What do you think, James?”
“I kind of like it in the green,” Jamie said. “The purple’s pretty, too.”
A few hours later, they left the mall with dresses and shoes, as well as accessories thanks to Blair’s insistence. Jo put the packages in her car and turned to Blair.
“Thanks for helping today,” Jo said. “They both found what they wanted. The purses and jewelry weren’t necessary—”
Blair cut her off. “You saw the way Julia was practically salivating over that velvet purse, and how Jamie’s face lit up when she saw that necklace. I wanted to spoil them a little. You only graduate from high school once.”
“Well, we all appreciate it.”
“Hey, Mom,” Julia called. “Is everything okay?”
“Yeah,” Jamie said. “We’re starving.”
“Can we get burgers,” Julia asked.
Jo hugged Blair and said good-bye and returned to the driver’s seat of her car. “Burgers sound perfect. Let’s go.”

[fol_fan1989]

Chapter Four

Jamie sat in the Eastland library, trying to study for her last final. She rubbed her eyes and sighed.
You’ll fail, she thought. You’re not smart enough to remember Physics.
These kinds of thoughts had been swirling in her head for weeks. She wasn’t sure where they came from, but they were getting louder. So far she’d been able to push them aside and had done well on her exams.
It was getting late, and she gathered her things. She wanted to go to Julia’s room, but it was too late. She’d be lucky if she made curfew. Maybe McKenzie would be awake.
Jamie hurried down the hallway to her room and unlocked the door. Any hopes she’d momentarily held for talking to McKenzie were dashed. The lights were off, and McKenzie was sound asleep in her bed.
Jamie got into bed and closed her eyes. She had time to cram in the morning.

Two days later, Jamie was finishing packing.
“You’re staying in Peekskill for the first part of the summer, right,” she asked McKenzie, who was packing on the other side of the room.
“Yeah, I told you. My parents are going out of the country after graduation, so I’m staying with my grandmother until July.”
McKenzie crossed the room and took Jamie’s face in her hands. “That’s the third time you asked me that today. Are you okay?”
“Yeah,” Jamie whispered. “Sorry.”
McKenzie kissed her gently. “We’ll have more time. But now we have to finish packing. Tomorrow’s graduation, and after that you’re going back to your mom’s, and I’m moving in with my grandmother. I’m not going to NYU until September. We talked it all out. Nothing’s changing.”
“But everything’s changing,” Jamie protested. She heard the anxiety in her voice, and she wanted to cry.
“Honey, everything’s going to be okay. We are going to be okay.”
“But you’re coming to the party at my mom’s tomorrow, right?”
“Yes.” McKenzie said firmly. “Relax. We made it through finals. I have to go take some things to my grandmother’s. But I’ll be back soon. You have dinner with your family tonight, right?”
“Yeah, Julia and I are staying at my mom’s tonight. Will you be back by four?”
“I don’t think so. Sorry.”
“I guess I’ll see you tomorrow, then?” Jamie frowned sadly.
“Don’t look like that.” McKenzie kissed her softly.
Jamie wrapped her arms around her and kissed her back.
“I’m yours,” McKenzie whispered. “Nothing’s going to change that.”
Jamie wanted to protest again, but McKenzie pulled away.
“I have to go.” McKenzie shouldered a tote bag and picked up her suitcase. She’d packed everything else into her car. She stole one more kiss and told Jamie she loved her before leaving.
Jamie sighed and fit a few more books into a box before she taped it shut. Someone knocked on the door. Had McKenzie forgotten something?
“Come in,” Jamie called. She stacked the box she’d just taped in a pile with the others in the corner.
“Hey, sweetie,” Jo entered, beaming.
“Hi, Mom.” They hugged. Jamie didn’t want to let go. “I’m almost ready.”
“All right. I’m going to help your sister load things into the car. We’ll be right back. You need anything?”
“No, thanks.” Jamie replied. She wanted to ask if they could talk, but Julia was waiting. Jamie could tell her mother was running on adrenaline and excitement.


The next morning, Jamie stepped into her green graduation dress. She’d allowed Blair to fix her hair and applied a little makeup.
“Mom, can you zip me up?”
Jo stood beside her in the mirror. She zipped Jamie into her pale green dress and smiled.
“Oh, Jamie. You look beautiful.”
Jamie smiled at the sweetheart neckline and pleated skirt that hit just above her knees. “Are the straps twisty in the back?”
“Let me see.” Jo adjusted the criss-crossed straps in the back of the dress and fastened the sparkling necklace Blair had bought around Jamie’s neck. She faced Jamie and put her hands on Jamie’s shoulders.
“I mean it, kid,” Jo said. “You look stunning. I’m so proud of you, honey.”
“Thanks, Mom.”
Jo kissed her cheek. “I’m going to go check on Julia and Mrs. G. We have to leave soon.”


Jamie stood beside Julia in the line of graduates.
“Jamie,” McKenzie called, running up to them.
“Hey, Kenzie.” Jamie smiled with relief. They hugged.
“Isn’t this exciting? Julia, how are you feeling about your speech?”
“Nervous,” Julia said.
“You’ll do great.”
“Thanks, McKenzie.”
“I have to go find my spot. I’ll see you two later.”
Jamie wanted to steal another hug, but McKenzie rushed off and joined a sea of red graduation gowns.
Julia continued muttering her speech under her breath, and the graduation march started. Jamie’s heart swelled, and she wanted to cry. She was proud of her sister and her fellow graduates, and sad her Eastland days were behind her.

[fol_fan1989]

Chapter Five

“Okay, Jamie, Julia, stand over here so I can get a picture,” Mrs. Garret said.
Jamie sighed. She wanted to take her graduation gown off. She was starving and wanted to go home to enjoy their party.
“Okay,” Jo said. “One more, and then we’d better get home.”
Jamie stood with her sister and smiled at Mrs. Garret.

Within half an hour, they were all gathering at Jo’s house.
“Let’s get a few more pictures before too many people get here,” Tootie said.
The twins posed by the front door—Jamie in her pale green knee-length sleeveless dress and Julia in a long royal blue satin off-the-shoulder dress.
“Why don’t we go outside and take some pictures,” Natalie suggested. “It’s such a beautiful day.”
Jo smiled as she watched Tootie and Natalie orchestrate pictures. Jo, Natalie, Tootie, Blair, Mrs. Garret, Jamie, and Julia posed in every possible configuration.
“I should go inside and make sure the food’s ready,” Jo said. “I think I heard a car door out front.”
“I’ll go see who it is,” Jamie said.
Everyone went inside, and Jamie hurried to the front door.
“Hi, Lily,” Jamie greeted Julia’s best friend. “Julia, it’s for you!”
“Julia, I’m so proud of you,” Lily said excitedly as she ran to Julia.
Jamie saw McKenzie coming up the driveway, followed by two more of Julia’s friends.
“Hey, guys,” Jamie called.
McKenzie ran to her, and they hugged.
Jamie’s friend, Sara, was the last to arrive. Tootie was running around taking candid pictures with her camera as everyone talked, laughed, and ate.
Later, Jamie sat with her sister on the couch as they opened cards and gifts. Jo sat on the other side of Julia so she could read her cards.
“Thanks, Aunt Tootie,” Jamie and Julia said in unison after opening a cards and cash from Tootie.
“You’re welcome. Don’t spend it all in one place.”
Jo handed Jamie a card and long rectangular box wrapped in purple paper.
“That’s from me,” McKenzie said. She stood beside Jamie.
Jamie opened the card and smiled at McKenzie’s sweet note.
“We did it, babe,” McKenzie’s note read. “I’m so proud of you! You are so smart and strong, and I am so lucky to have you in my life. I love you!”
Jamie tore off the purple wrapping paper, took the lid off of the box, and gasped. She clasped the silver tennis bracelet around her wrist and stood.
“McKenzie, it’s beautiful! I love it! Thank you!” Jamie threw her arms around McKenzie and kissed her mouth without thinking. She pulled away quickly, feeling her face get hot.
Oh, God. What had she done?
The room was silent, and Jamie bolted out of the room and upstairs.

[fol_fan1989]

Chapter Six

Jamie sat on her bed, tears running down her cheeks.
God, I’m an idiot, she thought. Now everyone knows! Way to come out to your entire family and friends, Jamie. I bet McKenzie ran out and won’t want to talk to me anymore, much less be my girlfriend… If that’s even what we are…
Someone knocked on the door.
“Jamie?”
It was her mother. She should have known.
Jo came in and sat beside Jamie on the bed. “Oh, honey. Don’t cry.”
That only made Jamie cry harder.
Jo put her arms around her. “Shh.”
“I’m sorry, Mom,” Jamie sobbed.
“What? Why?”
“I wanted to tell you… I didn’t want you to find out like that… I feel so stupid… I’m so embarrassed…”
“Jamie,” Jo kissed her forehead. “Baby, look at me.”
Jamie raised her head, tears dripping from her chin. Her mom wiped her tears and spoke gently.
“You don’t need to be sorry for loving someone. You’re an affectionate, loving person, and that can never be a bad thing.”
“Even if it’s McKenzie? Oh, God, McKenzie… I must’ve embarrassed her… She left, didn’t she?”
“No. She’s downstairs with Julia and the other girls.”
“Really?”
“Really. Everyone downstairs loves you, Jamie. We want to celebrate you and your sister. We can talk more later, okay?”
“Okay,” Jamie said softly.
Jo hugged her tightly. “I love you, and I’m proud of you.”
Jamie hugged her back. “Thanks, Mom. I love you, too.”

[fol_fan1989]

Chapter Seven

The following evening, Jamie was in her room unpacking when she heard a knock on her door.

“Come in,” she called.

“Hey, sweetie,” Her mom came in. “Do you need help unpacking?”

“Sure.” Jamie didn’t really need help, but she figured her mom wanted to talk. She was right.

Jo picked up a pair of sneakers and put them on the floor of Jamie’s closet.

“What’s McKenzie doing for the summer?”

“Staying with her grandmother,” Jamie folded a sweater. “Her parents will be out of the country. They were at graduation yesterday, but they’re leaving Saturday on business.”

“McKenzie must be happy to have her parents around for a few days.”

“Yeah,” Jamie said quietly. She already missed her girlfriend, and she knew McKenzie didn’t have the best relationship with her parents, since they were never around.

Jo sat on the bed.

“How long have you been dating her?”

“Since March. We’ve never really been out, though. Not like how we want. I guess I ruined that.”

“Why do you think you ruined anything?”

“Because… We talked about how we wanted to do it… How we wanted to tell people…”

“Honey, come here.”

Jamie sat beside her on the bed.

“I’m sorry it didn’t happen the way you planned.”

Jamie started to cry. “Mom, I didn’t want you to find out like that…”

“I know you didn’t. It’s okay.”

“What is? That it didn’t happen like I planned? Or that I’m a lesbian?”

“Both.”

“It’s really okay with you that I’m gay?”

Jo lifted Jamie’s chin so she could look at her. She wiped tears from her daughter’s cheeks.
“It’s more than okay, Jamie. All I’ve ever wanted is for you and your sister to be happy. I don’t care who you love.”

“What about Aunt Blair? Aunt Natalie? Aunt Tootie? Mrs. G? God, I let them all down…”

“We all love you. You didn’t let anyone down, honey.”

Jamie leaned against her mother and cried. She wasn’t sure if she felt relieved or still anxious.

“Mom, I wanted you to be proud of me…”

“Baby, I am proud of you. I couldn’t be more proud.” She kissed Jamie on the top of the head.

“I was so worried… I couldn’t stop thinking about how to tell you and what you’d say…”

Jo sighed, knowing Jamie had inherited her tendency to constantly worry. “I never want you to be afraid to tell me anything.”

“I know, but this felt different. I don’t know why.”

“Because this is part of who you are, and it’s something that some people still have a problem with. It’s better than when I was growing up, but there are still people who don’t want to accept people who are different.”

“There were rumors going around for a long time about me and McKenzie,” Jamie admitted. “We were mostly able to ignore it, but she had to stop me a couple times from confronting some jerks about it.”

“I’m sure some people thought that about me and your aunt Blair.”

“Really,” Jamie let out a small laugh. “You and Aunt Blair?”

“Yeah, but we knew the truth, and Blair convinced me that was all that really mattered. I’m sorry you’ve already had to deal with that.”

“No one ever did anything; it was all just talk.”

Jo stroked Jamie’s long dark hair. “Does Julia know?”

“Yeah. She said she already knew somehow.”

“I’ve known for a long time,” Jo admitted.

“What? You have?” Jamie raised her head and looked at her mother, genuinely surprised.

“Yeah, since you were about eleven.”

“I was so afraid to tell you, and you already knew?”

“I’m sorry it worried you so much. But the fact that your family knew just means you’ve always been true to yourself.”

“How come you never said anything?”

“It didn’t matter to me either way if you’re gay or straight. You are my sweet, brilliant, kind, loving daughter, the same as you’ve always been.”

Jamie hugged her tightly.

“I love you, Mom.”

“I love you, too.” Jo kissed her cheek.

They heard the front door open and Julia called out.

“We’re up here,” Jo called.

Julia raced up the stairs.

“Hi, sweetie,” Jo said when Julia appeared in the doorway. “How was ice cream with lily?”

“It was good. I’m really going to miss her when September comes.”

“You guys still have all summer,” Jamie said. She worried that was more than she’d have with McKenzie.

“Did I miss anything while I was gone?” Julia made her way over to Jamie’s bed. Jo patted the space next to her.

“I came out to Mom,” Jamie said.

“I thought after yesterday it was pretty obvious. You had to do it twice?”

“We were just talking about things,” Jo said.

“Are you okay, Jamie?”

“Yeah, I’m all right.”

Jo put her arms around her daughters. “It’s still early. What do you say we have a family movie night?”

“Ooh, can we watch Titanic?”

“Julia, there have been a million movies made since 1997,” Jamie protested.

“You two go figure out a movie,” Jo said. She stood. “I’ll make popcorn.”

[fol_fan1989]

Chapter Eight

The following Friday everyone gathered at Mrs. Garrett’s for their usual biweekly dinner.
Jo and Jamie stood on the porch. “Mom, are you sure everyone’s fine with it?”
“Jamie, that’s the fifth time you’ve asked me. Yes. We love you. It doesn’t matter.”
Mrs. Garrett opened the door and greeted them warmly.
“Where’s Julia,” Mrs. Garrett asked.
“She wasn’t feeling well,” Jo said.
“Allegedly,” Jamie said.
“Jamie,” Jo scolded.
“What? I’m just saying I don’t buy it.”
Mrs. Garrett laughed. “Everyone else is in the kitchen. Dinner’s almost ready.”
Everyone greeted each other with hugs, and Blair, Natalie, and Tootie expressed their disappointment that Julia was sick.
“Jo, I made your favorite,” Mrs. Garrett said.
“Spaghetti?”
“No, pot roast.”
Natalie and Tootie laughed.
“I’m kidding, Mrs. G. I love your pot roast,” Jo said.

Soon they were all sitting around the table, laughing and eating.
“Aunt Blair, can you pass the potatoes, please?”
Blair didn’t move.
“Aunt Blair?”
“Yo, Blair,” Natalie said. “Pass the potatoes.”
Blair handed the dish of potatoes to Natalie, who passed it to Jamie.
“Thanks, Aunt Nat,” Jamie mumbled.
After everyone had eaten, Jo, Blair, Natalie, and Tootie volunteered to do the dishes.
“It will be like old times,” Tootie said enthusiastically.
“Calm down, Tootie,” Blair said. “We’re just doing dishes.”
Jamie wandered into the living room, and Mrs. Garrett followed a few minutes later. They sat beside each other on the couch.
“How’s your summer going so far, honey?” Mrs. Garrett asked.
“Okay I guess.”
“And how’s your McKenzie?” Mrs. Garrett smiled.
Jamie blushed. No one had called McKenzie her girlfriend or anything like it. She was still getting used to the idea herself. She instinctively touched the bracelet McKenzie had given her; she hadn’t taken it off since receiving it. “Oh, we haven’t seen each other since my graduation party. She’s spending time with her family. She’s spending the summer here with her grandmother.”
“Well, when do you think you’ll see each other again?”
“Soon, I hope.”
“I hope you’ll bring her to dinner soon.”
“Really?” Jamie folded her hands in her lap and looked at the woman who was like a grandmother to her.
“She’s important to you, so I want to get to know her. Your sister’s brought a few boys home over the years, but you’ve never brought anyone home.”
“Thanks, Mrs. G. I’ll ask her.” They hugged, and Jamie held on a little longer than Mrs. Garrett.
They heard yelling from the kitchen. “Jo, I’m sorry.”
“Blair, I don’t believe you!” Jo came into the living room. “Jamie, let’s go.”
“Jo,” Mrs. Garrett stood. “you’re leaving now? We haven’t even had dessert yet.”
“Sorry, Mrs. G. We have to go check on Julia.”
“What happened in there?”
“Ask Blair. I won’t repeat it in front of Jamie. Thanks for dinner, Mrs. G. We’ll see you soon. Come on, Honey.” Jo put her arm around Jamie’s shoulders and ushered her out the door quickly.

[fol_fan1989]

Chapter Nine

Natalie sat at Tootie’s kitchen table the following afternoon.
“I really don’t understand Blair sometimes,” Natalie said.
Tootie took a bite of her salad before responding. “You mean what she said last night? I know. I don’t blame Jo for getting so upset.”
“Jamie’s in love. How can anyone think that’s wrong?”
“I know. I grew up in the theater; I’m around gay men all the time. Most of them are wonderful, and not because of who they’re attracted to.”
“The thing I don’t understand is how Blair can be so judgmental of Jamie but accept Julia and Jerri without hesitation.”
“You remember how she was the first time Jerri came to Eastland? Maybe it will just take time.”
A knock at the door interrupted their conversation.
“Jamie,” Tootie said when she opened the door.
“Hi, Aunt Tootie. I’m sorry I didn’t call…”
“Come in. You’re always welcome here. You don’t have to call first.”
Tootie lead her into the kitchen.
“Hi, honey. What a nice surprise,” Natalie said, getting up and hugging Jamie.
Jamie leaned into her and hugged her tightly.
“Can I get you anything,” Tootie asked.
Jamie shook her head and fiddled with her bracelet.
“How’s Julia,” Natalie asked.
“She’s fine. Feeling better.”
A few moments passed in awkward silence.
“Do you need to talk about something, Jamie,” Tootie finally asked.
“Yeah,” Jamie spoke slowly and fiddled with her bracelet. “I didn’t sleep at all last night, and my mom is still upset… I have to know, what did Aunt Blair say last night?”
Natalie and Tootie both sighed and looked at each other. Tootie tried to answer but faltered.
“She used a derogatory term when referring to you,” Natalie said slowly. “I’m so sorry, Jamie.”
“Why does she hate me?” Jamie tried to blink away tears.
Natalie took her hand. “I don’t think she hates you.”
“Maybe she just needs time to accept it,” Tootie said.
“But why?” Jamie’s voice rose. “ I’m no different than I was before she found out!”
“We know,” Tootie said gently. “I’m not going to defend her. Sometimes people need time to accept things.”
“What if she doesn’t? What do I do then? What if I’ve ruined my mom’s relationship with her best friend?” Tears ran down Jamie’s cheeks.
“You don’t need to worry about your mom’s friendship with Blair. It’s their relationship,” Natalie replied. “They’ve been through a lot together. They’ll get through this, too.”
“I don’t know what to do.” Jamie wiped away her tears.
“You just keep being true to yourself,” Tootie said.
“We love you, and we’re here for you,” Natalie added. “You’re not doing anything wrong.”
“Mrs. Garrett wants me to invite McKenzie to dinner. I don’t feel like I can do that now.”
Tootie encouraged her again to give Blair time and wait a few weeks before inviting McKenzie.
“I should go,” Jamie finally said. “I told my mom I’d be back soon. Thanks for the talk.”
Natalie hugged her before Tootie walked her to the door.

[fol_fan1989]

Chapter Ten

Julia sat on the edge of her bed with her phone in her hand. She thought about Ian. They’d barely made it home in time last night, what with her mother and sister’s early return home. Though her mother was so upset Julia wondered if she’d have known if she came home late. Of course she would have. Julia couldn’t get away with anything.
Her phone vibrated twice quickly in her hand, and she smiled. It was Ian; she’d set different text patterns and sounds for people she called and texted most often. She flicked her fingers across the phone’s screen, listening to the speech output read his message:
“Hey, beautiful. Last night was great. When can I see you again?”
She felt her cheeks warm as she remembered the feeling of his hands in her hair and his lips on hers the night before. Their make out sessions were always hot and heavy, but she never let it go past that. She knew the risks. Pregnancy was not part of her plan. She had too much to do. She wanted to volunteer, go to college, make a difference in the world somehow. But for a second last night, she’d thought about going further with Ian.
She responded to his text:
“Last night was great. I’d love to see you again, but not sure when. Maybe we could try for next Sunday? I think my mom has plans that night, so she’ll be out.”
He responded right away.
“Sure. I’ll miss you ‘til then.”
She texted that she’d miss him, too. She leaned back on her pillows and stroked the velvety blanket beneath her. It was soft and comforting, a gift from her mom years ago. She’d taken it with her to Eastland, and even though it was summer, she’d put it on her bed at home.
Someone knocked on her door. “Come in,” she called.
“Hey,” Jamie said from the doorway. “How are you feeling?”
“Fine.”
“Mom’s making pizza for dinner. She wants to know if you feel up to it or if you want soup.”
“Pizza’s fine.”
“Okay, I’ll tell her everything’s fine!” She sneered the word ‘fine’ sounding almost angry. Julia wasn’t sure if she was angry or teasing her.
“What happened last night? You and Mom have been moody all day.”
“I don’t want to talk about last night. Mom said you can come help if you’re feeling up to it.”
Julia heard Jamie’s bedroom door slam shut moments later. She sighed and reluctantly headed downstairs.

[fol_fan1989]

Chapter Eleven

The following Sunday, Jo pulled the laundry out of the dryer and walked through the kitchen to the living room to fold it. She paused at the kitchen counter to fold and put away some towels. Jamie sat at the kitchen table on the phone.
“McKenzie, what’s wrong? Sweetie… You what? Oh, my God. Are you okay? Yeah… Okay… Kenzie, slow down…”
Jo picked up the laundry basket and went into the living room, not wanting to make Jamie feel like she was listening in on her phone call.
Jo hated doing laundry. When the girls were at school and it was just her, she put it off as long as possible. She sighed and started folding and sorting clothes.
“Mom?”
Jo looked up at Jamie, who had tears streaming down her cheeks.
“Honey, what happened? What’s wrong?”
She moved some clothes so Jamie could sit beside her. It took Jamie a minute to respond, and Jo became more worried with every silent second.
“McKenzie came out to her grandmother, and it didn’t go well.” Jamie started to cry harder. “Her grandmother kicked her out.”
“Oh, Jamie. I’m sorry. That’s terrible,” Jo said sadly. She gently rubbed the back of Jamie’s hand.
“She doesn’t have anywhere to go, Mom.” Jamie’s voice shook.
“What about her parents?”
“They’re subletting their place while they’re out of town.”
“What’s she going to do?”
Jamie wiped her tears. “She doesn’t know.” Jamie paused. “Mom, can she stay with us for a while? Just until she can figure out what to do? Please? She has nowhere else to go.”
Jo sighed. She wanted to help McKenzie, but she worried about the logistics. Where would she sleep? Should Jo have Julia and Jamie share a room and give McKenzie her own room? Or should she allow Jamie and McKenzie to sleep in the same bed? Both rooms had queen-sized beds. She worried about having another mouth to feed.
“Mom, she’s hurt and she’s scared, and she doesn’t have anyone else.”
That did it. “All right, honey. She can stay for a night or two at least.”
Jamie threw her arms around her mother. “Oh, thank you!”
Jo hugged her back. “Do you want me to come with you to pick her up?”
“That would be great.” Jamie was still in shock that McKenzie’s grandmother had kicked her out and that her mother had said yes to her plan.

[fol_fan1989]

Chapter Twelve

“Explain to me again why McKenzie asked you to pick her up?” Jo watched Jamie carefully as she drove.
“Her car is in her grandmother’s name, and her grandmother didn’t just kick her out. She disinherited her.”
“For being gay? I thought you said McKenzie has two moms.” Jo slowed at a stop sign.
Jamie spoke slowly, trying to figure out the best way to word what she thought happened. McKenzie hadn’t been much for deep details on the phone.
“Turn right at the next light,” Jamie said. “From what McKenzie said, the way I understand… It’s because we’re not rich.”
Jo turned right. “It’s because of a class difference?” She looked at Jamie and pulled to the side of the road.
“Why are you stopping? She’s the next street over.”
“Because I need you to understand something. It is never okay for someone to treat someone the way McKenzie’s grandmother is treating her.”
“I know that.”
“And we are not less than anyone else because we don’t have as much money.”
“Mom, I know. Please don’t be mad.”
“How could I not be mad?” Jo yelled. “This yuppy is saying my daughter isn’t good enough for her granddaughter just because I grew up poor.”
“But McKenzie doesn’t look at us that way. She’s angry at her grandmother for her way of thinking. She loves me and doesn’t care how much money I have. Turn left. It’s the third house on the right.”
“I need to drive around the block a few more times before we stop.”
“I’m sorry, Mom.”
“It’s not your fault.” Jo drove around the block a few times before she pulled into the driveway Jamie indicated.
“I’ll go get her,” Jamie said. “Can you open the hatch so we can load things in?”
Jo nodded and got out to open the back.
Moments later, Jamie and McKenzie appeared, each pulling a wheeled suitcase behind them. “I just have a couple more boxes,” McKenzie said quietly.
“It’s okay,” Jo said. “Take your time. Do you need my help?”
McKenzie shook her head and headed back inside, followed by Jamie. A few minutes later, the girls returned carrying cardboard boxes. Jamie closed the hatch and opened the back door.
“I have to grab one more thing,” McKenzie said, her voice shaking. “I’ll be right back.”
Jo watched her sprint into the house. Jo looked at Jamie in the rearview mirror.
“I’m going to sit back here with her.”
Jo nodded.
McKenzie ran back out the front door carrying a small purple soft-sided cooler.
Jo was a little surprised to see McKenzie’s grandmother on the porch yelling something and shaking her fist. Jo thought she heard the words “go to hell,” but she couldn’t be sure.
McKenzie raced to the open car door, threw the cooler onto the floor, and jumped in before slamming the door. Her hands shook, and Jamie had to help her buckle her seatbelt.
As she pulled out of the driveway and drove home, Jo watched Jamie and McKenzie carefully in the rearview mirror. McKenzie’s entire body shook, and she cried silently; Jamie sat quietly next to her and held her hand.
Jo pulled into her garage and turned off the car. “Well, here we are. I’ll help you unload.”
They took McKenzie’s things up to Jamie’s room.
“Can I put my insulin in your fridge?” McKenzie held up the cooler.
“Sure,” Jo said. “Let’s go find room on a shelf.”
Jamie sat on her bed and looked at Julia’s closed bedroom door across the hall. She was surprised Julia was asleep. She got up and went downstairs to the kitchen.
“Jamie didn’t tell you I have Type One Diabetes, did she?” McKenzie sat at the table eating a granola bar when Jamie entered the kitchen.
“No, she didn’t.”
Jamie sat beside her. “No, I’m sorry. I think I forgot to mention that in all the excitement. Is your blood sugar low? That’s why you were shaking?”
McKenzie nodded.
“Do you need anything else,” Jo asked.
McKenzie shook her head. “You’ve done more than enough. I’m sorry about all of this—”
“Don’t apologize. We want to help. You’re important to Jamie; that’s enough for me. We’ll talk more later, but right now, you look like you need some rest. Make yourself at home.”
Jamie looked at her mother gratefully, and McKenzie whispered her thanks.
“Mom, don’t you think it’s early for Julia to be asleep? Her door is closed, and it’s quiet.”
“I’ll go check on her.” Jo got up and headed upstairs.
Moments later, they heard Jo calling Julia’s name.
“She’s not in her room,” Jo said, running into the kitchen. “Or anywhere upstairs.”
“I’ll check the basement,” Jamie said, jumping up and running downstairs.
“I’ll check the backyard,” McKenzie offered.
They searched and called out Julia’s name.
“I called Lily,” Jamie said, coming into the living room where her mother was pacing with worry and McKenzie sat anxiously on the couch. “She hasn’t seen or heard from her.”
“Oh, my God,” Jo was panicking. “Where is she? Where would she have gone? I’ll call Nat and Tootie and see if they’ve seen her.”
Before she could dial, her phone rang. “Blair, I can’t argue with you right now. Julia’s missing.”
“Julia’s here with me.”
Jo sank onto an armchair. “She what?”
“She got into a bind tonight and called and asked me to come get her.”
“What do you mean? What kind of a bind?” Jo was almost in tears.
“She wasn’t really up for talking, and I didn’t push.”
“Well, I can come get her. I’ll leave right now.”
“Jo, why don’t you let her stay here tonight? She’s asleep upstairs in the guest room. I can bring her home in the morning.”
“But she’s all right?”
“She’s all right,” Blair said gently. ”I’ll see you in the morning, okay?”
“Okay. Thanks, Blair.”

Jo hung up and set her phone on the coffee table.
“What happened,” Jamie asked.
“Julia’s at your aunt Blair’s. She’ll bring Julia home in the morning.”
Jamie got up and hugged her mother. “Good.”
“I’m glad she’s okay,” McKenzie said.
“Me, too, Honey,” Jo said.
“We’re going to go upstairs so I can help McKenzie get settled.”
“Okay,” Jo said wearily. “Let me know if you need help.”
Jamie kissed her mother’s forehead and went upstairs with McKenzie.

[fol_fan1989]

Chapter Thirteen

“Are you sure your mom is okay with us sleeping in the same bed?” McKenzie wore her soft pink short sleeve pajama top and matching floral shorts and was lying on the side of Jamie’s bed closest to the closet.
Jamie climbed into bed beside McKenzie. “She would have said something if she had a problem with it. You can sleep in Julia’s bed if you’d rather.”
“No way.”
Jamie smiled.
McKenzie looked at her sadly. “It’s been a rough day.”
“I know,” Jamie said gently, touching McKenzie’s shoulder.
“Will you hold me?” McKenzie started to cry.
“Of course,” Jamie turned off the lamp beside the bed.
“I don’t know what to do, James.” McKenzie clung to her.
“We’ll figure it out.” Jamie rubbed her back. “Right now, let’s just sleep. I’ll be right here when you wake up.”
“We don’t have to separate in the middle of the night anymore.”
“That’s right,” Jamie said gently. She kissed McKenzie.
“Thank you for saving me,” McKenzie whispered.
“Shh, go to sleep.” They kissed again and settled beneath the covers.

Jo brewed coffee the next morning. She hadn’t slept at all, and she was anxious for Blair and Julia to arrive.
“Morning, Mom,” Jamie came into the kitchen, sleep in her eyes. Her pastel lavender and blue plaid pajamas were rumpled, and her feet were bare.
“Morning, Sweetie. How’d you sleep?”
“Good. McKenzie’s still asleep. Yesterday took a lot out of her.”
“I know.” Jo hugged her.
“Thanks for letting her stay, Mom. She needs us.”
The doorbell rang, interrupting their conversation.
“That will be your Aunt Blair and Julia.” Jo went to the door and opened it. “Julia, thank God.” Jo wrapped her arms around Julia.
“Hi, Jo.”
“Hi, Blair. Come in.”
Jamie sat at the table with her bowl of cereal.
Jo, Blair and Julia sat in the living room.
“Julia, are you all right?” Jo asked.
“I’m all right, Mom.” The tone in Julia’s voice and her blank expression made her hard to read.
“What happened?”
“I got stuck, and I called Aunt Blair because I knew you were helping Jamie and McKenzie.”
“What do you mean you got stuck?”
“I was on a date,” Julia spoke slowly at first. “And everything was going fine. We went to Phil’s and got some food, and then we went to Cooper’s Rock.”
“Cooper’s Rock,” Blair asked. “Is that where kids still go to make out?”
“Yeah, something like that. We were kissing, and then he-- then he tried some things I wasn’t ready for.” Julia started to cry.
“What the hell were you thinking going to Cooper’s Rock anyway?” Jo asked angrily.
“I don’t know…” Julia cried.
“Was this a first date,” Blair asked.
“What does that matter?” Jo yelled.
“We’ve been out a few times. He went to Bates Academy.”
“What happened when he tried to go further than you wanted,” Blair asked.
“I told him no and pushed him away. When he tried again, I hit him with my cane. Some people were around and came over to try to help. He said he would take me home, so we went back to his car.”
“You got back in a car with him after that?” Jo asked.
“I didn’t know what else to do,” Julia said tearfully. “He said he’d take me home, but I asked him to drop me at the movie theater instead. I didn’t want to be home alone in case you weren’t back yet.”
“That’s why you called me,” Blair said, her voice tinged with sadness. “That’s why you were so shaken, why your cane was broken, why you looked such a mess.”
“Yeah,” Julia whispered.
“Were you physically hurt?” Jo asked.
“Nothing major,” Blair said. “Some scratches and bruises. I cleaned her up when we got home. She’s lucky she didn’t get hurt worse.”
“I’m so sorry, Mom,” Julia said, wiping away tears.
“Do you realize how damn lucky you are?” Jo started to shout. “You could have been killed. You could have been assaulted. You could be in a hospital bed right now. He could have had his way with you, gotten you pregnant. God, Julia!”
“I know it was stupid,” Julia sobbed.
“You’re damn right it was stupid.” Jo sighed and shook her head. “Go upstairs. I need to talk to your Aunt Blair.”
“Yes, Ma’am,” Julia got up and started walking towards the stairs. “Aunt Blair? Thanks.”
“You’re welcome, Sweetie,” Blair replied.
Julia slowly went upstairs. Jamie had slipped upstairs during their conversation and either her or McKenzie were in the shower.
“Blair, what am I gonna do?”
“About Julia? She should be punished for sneaking around with that boy.”
“About Julia, Jamie, and this whole mess. One kid is sneaking around with a boy I’ve never heard of, and the only reason I know about him is because he damn near assaulted her. The other kid came out, and her girlfriend is living with us indefinitely.”
“So much for your quiet summer, huh?”
“Yeah.”
“Jo, they still need you. Their problems are just different than they were when they were younger.”
“I know. Can you believe I actually miss them fighting over toys?”
Blair smiled. They were quiet for a few moments.
“Jo?”
“Yeah?”
“I’m sorry for what I said about Jamie at dinner. I never should have said anything like that. I was shocked by everything, and, well, there’s no excuse. I love Jamie, and I want her to be happy.”
“I’m sure she’ll be glad to hear that. She loves you a lot, Blair.”
“Do you forgive me?”
“Yes, Blair, I forgive you. But you can’t go off saying things like that. McKenzie’s only been here for a day, and she’s already a member of the family.”
“I want to get to know her better. I want Jamie to be happy.”
“We all do.”
“Well, I should get going. Are you working today?”
“I took today off after Jamie asked if we could help McKenzie yesterday, just in case she needs anything.”
“You’re a great mom, Jo.”
“Thanks, Blair. I needed to hear that.”
They hugged.
“Let me know if you need anything else.”
Jo walked her to the door.

[fol_fan1989]

Chapter Fourteen

Moments later, the doorbell rang.
“Blair,” Jo asked when she opened the door. “Did you forget something?
“Sorry, can I go up and talk to Jamie? I don’t want to leave without making things right with her.”
“Sure.”
Blair went upstairs and knocked on Jamie’s door.
“Come in,” Jamie called.
Blair opened the door. McKenzie sat at Jamie’s desk, putting on makeup. Jamie sat on her bed brushing her wet hair.
“Hi, girls.”
“Hi, Aunt Blair.”
“Hi,” McKenzie said quietly.
Blair sat on Jamie’s bed. “Can we talk?”
“About what?” Jamie set her hairbrush between them.
“I just want you to know, your relationship, your sexual orientation, it’s okay by me.”
“Excuse me,” McKenzie asked.
Blair recognized the look on Jamie’s face; she looked at her with a glare Jo had given her millions of times throughout their friendship.
“Gee, thanks, Aunt Blair. I didn’t realize I needed your permission to be myself.” Jamie’s tone was biting. She picked up her hair brush and brushed her hair back into a ponytail.
“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean it like that.”
“What did you mean?” McKenzie asked.
Jamie stood, put her hairbrush on the dresser, and walked to stand beside McKenzie.
“I love you, Jamie. When Julia called and needed me last night, I was reminded that if you ever called, I’d be there in the same way. And I’d like to get to know you better, McKenzie.”
“You already have something in common,” Jamie said.
“What, we both love you?” McKenzie joked.
Jamie laughed. “That, and your parents. Unfortunately you both have absent families.”
“I’m sorry if you can relate to having parents who aren’t around,” Blair said sadly.
“Me, too,” McKenzie said. She put down her makeup brush and stood. “I have to go brush my teeth.”
Oh no, Jamie thought. I blew it. I shouldn’t have said anything; I’m so stupid. McKenzie just got here, and we’re already going to fight.
Jamie sighed after McKenzie left the room. “I think I hit a nerve and didn’t mean to.”
“Her family’s not around, huh?”
“Her parents aren’t; they’re out of the country for the summer. They don’t come visit her often at school. Her grandmother disowned her when she came out. That’s why she’s here.”
“That’s too bad.”
“I was afraid for a minute that you’d disown me,” Jamie admitted. “And that I’d ruined your and Mom’s friendship.”
“Oh, Jamie, I’m so sorry. Come here.”
Jamie sat beside her on the bed.
“I know I didn’t react in the best way when you came out.” Blair put her arm around Jamie’s shoulders. “But I could never disown you. I was there the day you were born. I watched you and Julia grow up. I am so proud of the woman you’re becoming.”
“Really?”
“Of course. You’re brave. You know who you are and what you believe in, and you’re not afraid to express yourself.”
“Thanks, Aunt Blair.”
“I love you, sweetie.”
“I love you, too.” They hugged. “I should go check on McKenzie.”
Blair nodded. “Tell her I’m here if she ever needs someone to talk to about her family.”
Jamie met McKenzie in the hallway; she put her hand on McKenzie’s shoulder. “Hey, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have brought up your family in front of Blair.”
“I wish you hadn’t brought them up at all.”
“I’m sorry. I know they’re a sore subject right now, and you’re hurting. It was the first thing that came to mind. I shouldn’t have said anything.”
McKenzie looked like she was going to cry. “I can’t talk about this right now.”
“Okay. Consider it dropped. Are we okay?”
McKenzie nodded and hugged her.
Jamie held her close. “You smell good. Did you use my shampoo?”
“Yeah, sorry. I forgot to bring mine.”
“It’s okay. I like that you used my shampoo.”
McKenzie smiled.
“There’s that smile.” Jamie smiled back at her, and they kissed.
“Oh, excuse me,” Blair said on her way downstairs.
“Sorry, Aunt Blair,” Jamie said, pulling away from McKenzie and blushing.

“Julia Marie,” Jo said, her words dripping with disappointment. She was sitting beside Julia on her bed. “What am I going to do with you?”
“I don’t know. I’ve already been to boarding school.”
Jo sighed, trying not to laugh. “Why didn’t you tell me about this boy?”
“I don’t know. I guess sometimes I feel like I don’t have control of my life. Keeping Ian a secret… I thought I could control when I told you about him. I didn’t think you’d like how serious we were. Plus, you and Jamie are always ragging on Bates boys.”
“Just because we rag on them doesn’t mean they’re all bad.”
“I’m sorry, Mom.”
“Last week, when you didn’t come to dinner at Mrs. G’s, were you really sick?”
“No, I snuck out to meet Ian. I barely made it home before you did.” Julia hung her head.
Jo rubbed her ear. “What do you mean you feel like you don’t have control over your life?”
“I’m always doing what’s expected of me. I graduated high school; I’m going to college. I have to rely on other people for transportation; I can’t just go where I want when I want. I can’t go shop by myself or go to the movies by myself. Lily has to pick me up when we hang out.”
“Is the transportation thing what’s really bothering you?”
“Yeah.”
“But you have options. You know Jamie, your aunts and I will take you wherever you want to go. We signed you up for ride share apps, in case none of us are available. And you know how to take the bus; we can help you figure out routs if you want.”
“I know, but sometimes I don’t want to ask or no one’s around. And the ride share app is tied to your card, and I don’t want to max you out. Busses only go so far and only run at certain times.”
“Julia,” Jo shook her head. “What if we get you your own card. We can go to the bank once you and your sister turn eighteen in a few weeks. Then you can use the ride share apps by yourself. I don’t want you to worry about my finances.”
“I’d like that. I can use the money I earn working for Mrs. Garrett this summer. And I can deposit the money I got for graduation.”
“Those would be some smart choices.”
“Thanks, Mom.” Julia reached for her.
Jo hugged her. “You have to tell someone when you go somewhere, okay? Not because we want to control you; it’s a safety thing. Jamie has to tell me when she goes somewhere, even if she drives herself.”
“Okay. That’s fair.”
“You know I have to punish you, though. It was wrong to sneak out to meet a boy.”
“Okay,” Julia said sadly.
“No dates for the rest of the summer.”
“The whole summer?” Julia protested.
“The whole summer.”
“All right.” Julia leaned against her.
“I’m glad you’re okay. You know last night could have been a million times worse?”
“I know.”
“My first year at Eastland, Blair’s childhood friend asked me out, and he tried to sexually assault me. When you told me what happened last night, I was right back to that night with Harrison. The thought that someone would try to do the same thing to my baby…”
“I’m sorry, Mom. You never told me that happened to you.”
“Maybe I should have. I haven’t thought about it in years. I was able to fight him off.” Jo sighed. “Anything else you want to tell me?”
“No.”
Jo kissed her forehead. “Do you want to come help me make lunch?”
“Sure.”
“I’m going to go talk to McKenzie for a second. I’ll meet you in the kitchen.”

[fol_fan1989]

Chapter Fifteen

“Hi, Tootie,” Jo answered her phone. She was about to go on her lunch break.
“Jo, did you know Natalie and Snake are back together?”
“No.” Jo shuffled some papers on her desk and put them in her client’s folder.
“They’re coming to dinner tomorrow night. Jeff’s finally back from visiting his family, so he’s coming with me, too.”
“And there’ll be four in my family. We’re going to have a crowded table. Have you told Mrs. G?”
“I tried calling this morning but she didn’t answer.”
“I’ll call her. I’ll ask if she needs us to bring anything.”
“Okay. I have to go. I’ll see you tomorrow.”
“See you tomorrow.”
Jo picked up her purse and left her office. “Donna, I’m going to lunch. I’ll be back for my 1:00.”
“All right, Jo,” the receptionist responded.
Jo liked Donna, and they’d become friendly in the six years Jo had worked at the clinic. She had gotten her social worker license and then her master’s degree before the twins were born. She’d worked as a school counselor when the girls were growing up, and now she worked as part of an employee assistance program for the Peakskill hospital, counseling hospital employees and their families. She specialized in working with children. She had to admit, lately it was getting to her and she was starting to think about finding another job. But the pay and benefits were good.
Jo walked out to the parking garage and drove to a fast food place down the street. She parked and called Mrs. Garrett.
“Hello?” Mrs. Garrett answered on the second ring.
“Mrs. G? It’s Jo.”
“Hi, honey, what’s up?”
“I just wanted to let you know there’ll be a few extra people at dinner tomorrow.”
“I know you said McKenzie’s coming. I’ve already planned for her. I’m looking forward to meeting her.”
“Tootie called me just now, and she said Jeff is coming. And apparently Natalie and Snake are back together, and I guess he’s coming.”
“Okay, so two extra. Got it. Is Blair bringing anyone?”
“I don’t think so,” Jo laughed. “I actually don’t think she’s dating anyone, which is kind of weird for her. Mrs. G, can we bring anything?”
“No thanks, Jo. I’ve got it all taken care of.”
“I hope you’re not makin’ anything too complicated now that we have so many people.”
“I just thought we’d grill out. It’s been so nice lately. Besides, Julia’s helping me tomorrow. I’ll pick her up in the morning. She can help me cook and we’ll make sure everything’s ready.” Mrs. Garrett had re-opened Edna’s Edibles but on a much smaller scale, focusing on a small selection of baked goods and only opening three days a week. Julia helped her bake and make sure everything was organized. Sometimes she assisted customers, but most of her work was behind the scenes. Mrs. Garrett seemed to enjoy working on a smaller scale with limited weekday hours.
“Okay, let me know if you need extra burgers or anything.”
“Okay, Jo.”
“Mrs. G, while I have you, can I ask a favor?”
“Of course.”
“The twins’ birthday is in a few weeks, and I want to have a party. Would you be willing to make a cake?”
“Of course! It’s hard to believe they’re eighteen.”
“You’re tellin’ me. I can’t believe I’m a mom of high school graduates.”
“How’s it going with all three of them in the house?”
“It’s fine, kind of loud sometimes, but I love having all of them with me.”
“I’m glad things are going well. I’m excited to see all of you tomorrow.”
“I’ll see you tomorrow, Mrs. G. Bye.”
They hung up, and Jo had just enough time to go through the drive-thru before she had to get back to work.

“Sweetie, what are you wearing tonight?” McKenzie asked Jamie the next afternoon. They had both just gotten home from work: McKenzie scooped ice cream at a local ice cream shop, and Jamie worked as a lifeguard at the Peakskill pool.
“I don’t know yet. It’s casual.” Jamie sat on the couch. Chlorine was still in her damp hair, and she needed to shower.
“Can I wear a dress?”
“You can wear whatever you want, babe.” Jamie stood and took McKenzie’s hands in hers.
They smiled at each other.
“You’ll look beautiful no matter what you wear,” Jamie said. She lifted McKenzie’s hand to her lips and kissed it.
McKenzie blushed and put her free hand on Jamie’s shoulder.
“You’re so cute,” Jamie said.
“You’re gorgeous.”
“I smell like swimming pool.”
McKenzie sat on the couch and gently pulled Jamie down beside her. “Do you think they’ll like me?”
“Of course they will. My mom already loves you, and Mrs. Garrett can’t stop talking about how excited she is to have you over. Besides, you met everyone at my graduation party.”
“But now we’re, like, officially out and together.”
“I know, it does feel a little different. It makes me a little anxious, too. But it will be fine, Love. It’s just a family barbecue.”
“My family never really had a traditional barbecue. Anytime we had barbecue, it was catered.”
Jamie stifled a laugh. “Your first barbecue will be great, I promise.” She leaned over and kissed her.
McKenzie kissed her back, gently cupping the back of her head with one hand and caressing her cheek with the other.
Jamie wrapped her arms tightly around McKenzie and kissed her harder. McKenzie ran her fingers through Jamie’s damp ponytail as they continued to make out. A small moan escaped Jamie’s lips when they separated momentarily to catch their breath. Jamie felt herself relax into the couch.
“You’re so beautiful,” Jamie whispered. “I want to keep kissing you forever.”
“You took the words right out of my mouth,” McKenzie said quietly.
Jamie gently pushed some hair away from McKenzie’s face and smiled. “I wish we could have time alone like this more often.”
“Me, too. But I’m so lucky your mom let me stay.”
“She’ll be home in a little over an hour. Let’s go upstairs and pick out what we’re going to wear. I’ll race ya!”
Jamie jumped up and started running up the stairs.
“Hey, wait up!” McKenzie laughed as she ran after Jamie.