Janet, Steve and Kelly by Shari, Donna, David and Brenda by Heather, Brandon, Dylan and Gina by DC, Carly And Lexi by Val, Valerie by Shae

Valerie

Valerie and Jen had been at the site of the accident all night and early morning.  They had called the cops and were giving them the details over and over.  They also didn't leave because  Valerie refused to accept the fact that Ginger was dead.

"Come on Val. We should go to the Hospital," Jen told her.

"I'm not leaving without Ginger."

One of the cops overheard the conversation, "Ma'am, I hate to be the one to tell you, but she is probably not alive."

"You don't know that!" she yelled.

"Yes, we do.  The car exploded, there is no way she could have lived," Jen tried to convince her.

"Fine, if you won't look for her, then I will,"  Val said getting up and looking around the hill that the car had rolled down.  

Jen ran over to her "Val, she is gone.  Ginger is gone," Jen told her.  

Deep down Val knew it was true but she didn't want to admit it.  She fell to the ground and cried. Jen hugged her tightly and tried to comfort her.  

The paramedics came over and whispered in Jen's ear, "Its official, she's dead.  You two should go and get checked out in the hospital."

"Thanks, we will," Jen whispered back as she held Valerie close.

Lexi

At Whilshire Memorial

Lexi walked into the hospital coffee room and grabbed a cup of coffee. Just a few more minutes and she would be signed out.  She drank the coffee quickly, she hadn't been getting much lately.  She had spent the night in the hospital. 

As she swallowed the coffee, her hands shook.  Her hands could never stop moving...she was a mess.  Scared, shivering, cold, crying, and her hair was a rats nest.  She thought back to the wonderful business woman she once was and she felt somehow out of character.  How did she let herself get like this?

Just then, Michael came over to her.  "Hey Lexi, you can leave now.  Just go up to the counter and sign yourself out," he said looking at her condition and handing her his coat off his back.  "Here take this, you must be frozen," he said.

She nodded.  "Thanks," was all she managed to get out.  She put his coat on her back and felt a warmth.  She then followed Michael to the front desk. 

People stared her up and down like she was some creature, but why would she blame them?  She would've done the same thing.

"Good morning Miss Sterling. Sign here," the receptionist said, handing her a pen.  Lexi scribbled her signature and headed down the hall with Michael.

Donna

At the Bungalow

Donna jumped up from the table to get David and her more coffee.  They were enjoying a leisurely breakfast before Donna had to go to the store for the day. 

David looked up from the paper and hollered into the kitchen, "Hey, while you're up would you turn on the TV?  I want to catch the news."

Donna shook her head as she walked back past him to turn the TV on.  She would never understand what is was that made men so helpless at times. 

Donna settled back into her spot at the table when a special bulletin came on over the news. 

"This just in.  There was a fatal accident last night outside of the city.  One woman died at the scene when the vehicle she was driving exploded.  Two passengers survived with minor injuries.  More to come on this story later."

David leaned forward to get a better look at the TV, "Donna, did you see that?"

Donna glanced up, "No, what was it?"

"I swear that looked like Valerie."

Donna looked concerned, "Are you sure?"

David shook his head, "No, I'm not sure but it really did look like her.  I'm sure she's fine." Donna smiled her agreement.  "Yes, she's fine."

Kelly

"Thanks for coming on such short notice," said Mr. Klein, the District Attorney for the case that was going to be formed against Jack Lemme.

Kelly took a seat in the chair that he had pointed to.  Klein had called her at 8am that morning, asking her to come in.

"I know you have already told the FDA everything, but I need you to tell it to me, too. This way, I'll record it and we'll have it on record.  Are you ready?"

Kelly nodded uneasily.  He hit record on the tape deck, "Okay, tell me everything."

She began telling the entire story.  This must of been the fifth time she was telling the story to an official, that she had the whole thing memorized.  When she finished, he pressed stop.

"That's some story you got there.  Quite a case.  The good thing is, there's no defense.  There is no way this guy can be successfully defended."

Kelly smiled, it felt good to hear someone else say that, "I don't know what to say."

"Say you'll testify," Mr. Klein said, point blank.

"Excuse me?"

"Ms. Taylor, I'm afraid that, you, being the only secure witness on our side, we need you to testify.  Without you, we really don't have a case."

Kelly didn't know what to say, "But..."

"There are no buts, without you, there is no case," he repeated clearly and sternly.

"Can I think about it?"

"Of course.  But let us know as soon as possible.   This case has to move fast if we want quick, successful results."

Kelly understood, she really did.  But she was still nervous to testify, wondering what Lemme might do...to her.

Valerie

At Whilshire Memorial

When Jen and Valerie went to the hospital, they were both sent to rooms to be examined.  Valerie was okay; she had a few cuts and bruises.  Although physically she was fine, emotionally was another story. Jen on the other hand, had sprained her arm and had to wear a sling for at least three weeks.  

When they were done, they met up with each other in the lobby.

"How are you?" Jen asked Valerie.

She just stared down at the floor. "I can't believe she is gone, Jen." Jen was at loss of words.

"She was my best friend.  I knew her since I was ten years old.   How am I suppose to explain to her mother what happened?"

Jen couldn't help but get teary eyed.  She had never seen Val like this.  She didn't know what to do. "Do you want me to call Kelly or someone?"

Valerie didn't say anything anymore, she just cried.  Jen left her to go to the use the phone. While doing so, she ran into Michael and Lexi, who were on their way out.

"Jennifer!" Micheal said as he saw her.

"Oh Micheal!" she said and embraced him.

"What happened to your arm??" he asked her.

"Ginger, Val, and I were in a car accident last night.  Ginger was killed."

"Oh god.  How is Val taking it?"  

"Not well. I was going to call Kelly."

"That would probably be a good idea.  Here use my phone," he offered.  Lexi just stood there.  She didn't feel bad for Val although she probably should.

"Thanks bro," she said and smiled slightly as she dialed Kel's cell.

"Jen, I'm gotta get Lexi out of here.  Just give me my cell phone back later," Michael said.  She nodded as she heard Kelly pick up the phone.

"Hello?" Kel asked.

"Hey Kelly, it's Jen."

"Oh Jen, I'm not in the mood for you."

"Don't hang up! It's about Valerie."

"What happened?  What did she get herself into this time?" Kelly asked, so fed up with her mess.

"There was an accident.  Ginger died."

Concern swept through Kelly's body, "What about Val?"

"I don't know. I've never seen her like this.  You should come to Whilshire Memorial."

"I will be there ASAP," Kelly said, hanging up her cell phone.

Lexi

Lexi and Michael were driving home from the hospital. She didn't want to go home so they were going to stay at a hotel for a few days.  

"Hey can you turn the radio on?" he asked her as he was busy looking at the traffic.  Lexi didn't stir. He took a quick glance at her and saw her shivering while looking out the window.  

"No, Michael...I'm cold."  

"Don't worry. we're almost there," he said taking her hand.

Brenda

Brenda flipped through a magazine while waiting patiently for her meeting with her agent Gabe Walker.  They were to sign her contract today.  Brenda was nervous yet excited. 

A few moments later, Gabe himself stepped into the lobby and called her name.  Brenda jumped up and crossed the room to shake his hand. 

"Sorry you had to wait, very important phone call.  Come on back," Gabe told her.  Brenda followed him back to his office.  Gabe shut the door behind her and took a seat at his desk.  He indicated for Brenda to sit in the chair across from him.  She sat down and looked at him expectantly.

"Brenda, I have been busy negotiating you one hell of a deal." Gabe picked up a pen and scribbled some numbers on a scrap of paper.  He pushed it toward her.  "Here is what you will make per episode.  The show has already been signed for the first season."

Brenda looked at the number and her eyes widened.  "Wow," was all she could say.

Gabe laughed, "If the show gets picked up for next season, we will negotiate for a higher salalry, more perks, you name it.  This show is going to make you a household name."

Brenda smiled, "Where do I sign?" 

Kelly

At Whilshire Memorial

Kelly ran down the halls of Whilshire Memorial, shouting Valerie's name.  She never thought she'd be this worried about her enemy turned friend turned enemy.   In other words, her frenemy.  But deep down, Kelly cared for Valerie.  She always did although it wasn't obvious most of the time.

"Kelly, over here!" Jen shouted as she saw Kelly running down the hall.

"Where's Valerie???" Kelly asked while trying to catch her breath.

Jen pointed to the row of chairs against the wall, "Over there.   They discharged us both because we're physically fine aside from the scrapes and bruises and my arm.  Mentally...well that's a whole other story."

"I can only imagine," Kelly walked over to where Val was sitting.   She sat down next to her.  Valerie looked awful.  She had a bandage on the right side of her forehead, her face was dirty and her hair was a Wreck.  She didn't even notice Kelly sit down.   She was just staring off into space.

Kelly tried to snap her out of it, "Valerie.  Valerie, are you okay?"

Val kept looking straight, "She's gone.  I can't believe she's gone," she kept saying over and over, tears starting to fall from her eyes.

Kelly leaned over and hugged her, "I know, honey, I know."

Brenda

Brenda walked out of Gabe's office with an air of satisfaction.  Signing the contract, acting, it all felt "right" somehow.  Lost in thought, Brenda didn't notice as she walked right into a man coming into the office.

"I'm sorry!" Brenda told the man.

"Bren?"

Brenda looked up to see Dylan.  "Dylan..." she couldn't help but giggle.  "I didn't see you."

"Obviously," Dylan had to laugh too.

"What are you doing here?"

Dylan glanced at his watch, "Lunch with Gabe."

Brenda looked at him curiously, "You know Gabe?"

"Sure, I gave you his number, didn't I?"

Brenda nodded, "Yea, I guess you did. I didn't realize that you knew him that well."

"We go way back.  Listen Bren, I'll see you later?" Dylan asked.

Brenda nodded again. "Sure.  Bye Dylan." Dylan gave her a last smile and headed into the office.  Brenda watched him walk away before turning and heading the opposite direction.

Janet

At Casa Walsh

"Okay, we're all set," Janet said while hanging up the phone.

Steve closed the fridge and turned to face his wife, "So when are we going?"

"Next Tuesday, whatever time we want."

"Great.  I'm really looking foward to meeting more kids."

"Me too!" Janet had an eager smile on her face, "We have a lot to discuss though," she said, referring to the incident at the orphanage that clearly showed that Steve and Janet really had no idea what type of child they wanted to take in.

"Listen, we're out of milk so I can't make Maddy the Mickey Mouse pancakes."

"Oooh, you're specialty!"

"Yep, especially considering it's the only thing I know how to make." Janet laughed.   "I'm going to run to the mini-mart.  I'll be right back."

"Okay," Janet said, giving him a quick peck as he passed by.

"Bye, honey."

Kelly

Kelly drove along one of the many highways in LA.  In the car with her was Valerie in the passanger seat and Jen, in the back.  They rode in silence, Valerie staring out the window, weeping to herself, Kelly just keeping her eye on the road, and Jen sitting quietly.

"Jen, listen, I know we haven't had a good past but..." Kelly broke the silence, "but so you're not alone, do you wanna come stay at the beach apartment with Valerie?  I really don't want her to be alone, and I don't think you should either."

Jen was suprised by Kelly's offer, "Are you sure?"

Kelly smiled, "Yeah, I am."

"Thanks."

"When we get to the apartment, I'll put up some coffee and you can tell me just how this accident occurred."

Jen nodded.   She knew she'd have a whole lot of explaining to do...

Steve

At Casa Walsh

Steve pulled into his driveway just as the mailman walked up onto the lawn.

"How are ya, William?" Steve asked while getting out of the car, milk in hand.

"Quite fine, thanks, and yourself?"

"Good.  Here, I'll take that," Steve reached out for his mail.

William flashed a smile, "Have a good day."

"You too."

Steve proceeded up the lawn and walkway, and stuck his key into the door, opening it. Maddy ran into the foyer to greet him.

"Hi 'darlin," he said in a funny voice that made her laugh, "Hungry?"  She nodded.  "Janet....?" Steve called out.

She walked in from the kitchen, "Yes?"

"Take the mail and the milk please.  I'm going to make my favorite daughter a late breakfast!"  He scooped Maddy up into her arms and walked into the kitchen.

Jake

Jake shoved a duffle bag full of clothes into the backseat of his car.  He got into the driver's seat and put the key in the ignition.  He drove off out of the hotel parking lot and onto the main road.  

He thought about passing by Melrose Place and The Peach Pit one last time but changed his mind.  He didn't want to look back.  Ever.  At least not without Clare.

Would he find her?  He didn't know but he sure as hell planned on trying.

Kelly

At the Beach Apartment

"And that's when we lost control of the car and went off the cliff," Jen finished, taking a sip of her coffee.

Kelly was about to say something when she was interrupted by the ringing of her cell phone, "Excuse me a minute."  She pulled her phone out of her pocket and rose from the couch, walking into the kitchen.

"Hello?"

"Miss Taylor, it's Mr. Klein.  The District Attorney."

"Right...what's up?"

"Just wanted to let you know that Lemme was served the papers today."

"Papers?" she asked quizzically.

"Telling him about the charges brought up against him, that his drug will not be realeased.  Also that there will be a hearing next week that he's mandated by law to attend.  If he doesn't, he's subject to arrest."

"Well then hopefully he won't show up!" Kelly joked.

Mr. Klein let out a laugh, "Don't worry, we've got him.  Either way, I assure you, he'll pay--in jail."

"That's good to know.  Well, I appreciate you calling."

"Just doing my job.  Have a good day."

"You too.  Bye," Kelly hung up her phone and headed back to the living room, "Now where were we?"

Janet

At Casa Walsh

"Honey..." Janet called from the living room.

"Yeah?" Steve replied from the kitchen. He was feeding Maddy the Mickey Mouse pancakes.

"Did you see what we got from the foster agency?" she walked into the kitchen with the letter in her hands.

Steve shook his head 'no', "Open wide, Maddy."

"They sent us about ten profiles of various children in the orphanage.  Pictures, stats, history."

"Wow, that should really help."

"Yeah it should," Janet quickly glanced through the profiles. "Oh look, here's that girl who were heard talking in that group discussion yesterday."

Steve got up from the table and looked over Janet's shoulder, "Oh yeah.  There's Taylor, too," he pointed. "Whattya say we put Maddy down for a nap and we spend some time together looking over the profiles?"

"Sounds like a plan!"

Lexi

Lexi opened her book and sat perched outside at the pool deck at the hotel.  Michael was by her side reading a magazine.  He never left her side for a second.  

"Michael I think I want to go inside now..." Lexi said since she was starting to have a headache. The doctor had said she would get them often because of her skull injury.

"Sure," Michael sighed.  He let Lexi in front of him and they headed to their room. When they got there, Michael closed the door and locked it.  He checked all the windows.  Lexi sat down on the bed and started to watch TV.  Michael was going to sleep on the couch when the night came, but for now, he went under the covers along with Lexi and they watched together.  

Lexi manipulatively snuggled closer to him and Michael looked at her moving closer to him.  They locked eyes.  Michael leaned in and kissed her, he stroked her beautiful red hair back as Lexi moved in closer.  Their tongues locked in embrace as Michael started to unbutton her shirt.  

Lexi pulled her lips away from his.  "Michael, I can't," she turned around and laid down, looking the complete other way.  She finally did have her man but this was not the circumstance in which she wished to achieve it.  

Michael kissed her on the cheek.  "I'm going to take a shower."  He took off his shirt and walked into the bathroom.  He closed the door and sat on the toilet thinking about Lexi.  Memories of happier times with her flashed through his head...like the first time they danced together at the club.  

"You're not very charming," Lexi smirked, implying he didn't have 'the moves'.  

"How would you know?  You just met me," Michael questioned.

"Trust me, I know your type."

Then he thought about the time he found out she was almost raped and their kiss in the hospital which reignited the flames between them.  He got up and opened the bathroom door, "Lex?"

"Michael, I hate when you call me that!" she exclaimed sitting up and looking directly at him.  Michael smiled, she was getting back to her old self.  She laid back down. "Yes?"

"I...." he stopped.  Did he want to say it?  Saying 'I love you' was a big step.  "I love you," he spit out anway.  

Lexi looked him in the eye and didn't say anything.  "Well thanks..." she said slowly.  

Michael nodded.  "I see," he said and closed the bathroom door again.   He sighed. He realized he needed to give her some time, she was just raped for godsakes.  What was he doing saying he loved her and expecting her to say it back?

Lexi knew she loved Michael with all her heart.  She lay in her bed, eyes open and then shut, thinking of when she'll be okay again.  

Carly

At California University

Carly walked into her classroom a little early.  Adam smiled at her and they exchanged glances. Things were kind of weird but she was still able to get used to them the way they were.  

After a few minutes, everyone was seated among the large class and Proffessor Dain started to talk.  "Good morning class.  Today, you will be working on your internships."  Lisa and Carly exchanged glances.  "Yes, that's right.  We talked about this in the school beginning and now it's time."  

Carly groaned.  "Ms. Reynolds?" he asked with a smirk on his face.   "Would you like to share with the class on what your sighing about?"

"No Sir," she said politely, angry at him for singling her out.

"Good.  Now do this worksheet," he said and went on with the class as if nothing happened, but in Carly's heart it did!  

Steve

At Casa Walsh

Outside, in the backyard, Steve and Janet laid on the hammock Steve had put together.  They rocked back and fourth in the crisp, cool air, while looking over the profiles.   They alternated reading the profiles aloud.

"Shivani.  Ten months old.  Indian.  Put up for adoption at birth," Janet said.

Steve took his turn, "MaryAnne.  12 years old.  Cacausion.  Parents died when she was three and she has no family to speak of."

"A.J. Thirteen years old.  African-American.  Abusive Father, mother deceased.  Taken out of his home."

"Taylor.  Fifteen years of age.  Cacausion.  Put up for adoption at birth.   In and out of foster homes since."

"All of them seem so unique and different," Janet said, "It's going to be almost impossible to choose."

"Yeah, I know.  But when we do choose, we'll at least know we made the right decision."

"I hope so..."

David

At The Beat on the Street

David typed away furiously on his article.  He had been neglecting his work for the past few weeks and he needed to make up for lost time.  Luckily, the office was quiet with Brandon out of town and Steve and Janet not around. 

David stopped when his cell phone rang.  He reached over and answered it.  "Hello?"

"David, its Jen."

"What do you want?" he asked suspiciously.

"Please don't talk to me that way," Jen answered.  David could hear the tears in her voice.

"What is it Jen?" he asked in a softer voice.

Jen took a deep breath before she spoke.  "We were in an accident last night.  Val and I, and Ginger.  David, Ginger's dead."  Jennifer began sobbing into the phone.

David stood up quickly.  "Are you okay? Is Valerie okay?"

"We're both fine...scared and upset."

David shook his head, he had seen this coming and should have tried to prevent it.  "Do you need anything?"

"No, Kelly is bringing some food over later.  Val's laying down.  We're fine.  I just needed to hear your voice, David," Jen said.

"Thanks for calling and letting me know Jen.  I'll talk to you later," David told her before hanging up the phone.  David couldn't believe what he had heard.  Ginger was dead.  It didn't seem possible.  He remembered the last time she was in town and all the trouble she had caused.  She had been the end to his and Val's relationship.  David leaned back in his chair, lost in thought.

Carly

At California University

Class was dismissed and Carly gathered her things and went to the door.  She left the room and walked rapidly across the hall.   Adam caught up with her.  "Hey," he said and smiled.  "Dinner tonight?" he asked.  

"I don't think so," she said.  She kept walking and ran into Steve's brother Ryan.  

"Hey Carly," he said and smiled.  He was really grown up now!  He was wearing black pants and a white muscle shirt.  

"Hey Ryan!"  Adam stood there with his hands folded across his chest and Ryan got the signal.  

"Hey, we should have lunch together sometime," he said.  Carly nodded and waved.  "Bye."

Ryan walked away and Adam looked mad.  "Who was that?"  

"Look I don't have to answer to you okay?" she said.  

Adam looked at her.  She looked beautiful.  Her hair was up in a bun and she was wearing a pink button down shirt with a white skirt.  "Carly what's wrong with you today?"

"In class, you were picking on me again and I don't like it one bit!"

"Well if that's the way you feel I'm sorry but I don't mean to do it."

She sighed.  "We'll talk about this over dinner tonight and I was thinking I'd like my friends Steve and Janet to join us.  Around 8?"

"Sure. That's cool with me."  

"Bye," she said and smiled.

"Bye."  

Valerie

After Kelly had left, Val went and took a shower. She was aching all over and thought a shower would help. When she was done, she put on a robe and walked out to the living room.

Jen was on the phone with her mother, "Mom, I'm fine. I can't believe Michael called you. No, I'm not mad at him. Mom, I gotta go. Yes, I'm sorry. Love you, too," Jen said and hung up the phone.

"I'm so not looking foward to calling my mom and telling her what happened. I think I might not call her," Valerie told Jen.

"Ahh, Val I don't think you're going to be able to get out of that one."

"I know, I know," Val said pulling her wet hair in front of her.

"How was your shower? Do you feel better?"

"As better as I can get. It's not everyday that your childhood freind dies!" Val snapped at her.

"I'm sorry."

"No, its not your fault. I'm going to sleep or something," She said walking out.

Carly

At California University

Carly got home from school and walked into the Peach Pit. She put her books down on the counter in front of Kelly. "Good Evening," Kelly said and laughed. "Rough day?"

Carly crossed over to the other side of the counter. "You don't know the half of it!" Carly groaned and grabbed her books, putting them on the other side of the counter.

"Don't worry, I've had my share of school days," Kelly said, still laughing. She took a sip of her coke and sighed. She flipped through the menu. "So you guys raised the price of the megaburger?" she noticed.

Carly gave her a strange look. "'Yeah...Two weeks ago"

She handed Carly the menu to put away. "I guess I've just been really out of it lately, you know? With that whole thing with and Brandon being away." Carly nodded in sympathy.

"You know, maybe you need a night out?"

"That would be great. I'd love to get together sometime and just talk," Kelly said, relieved.

Carly got her pad out. "Now if you'll excuse me, I have work to do!"

Valerie

Valerie couldn't sleep so she decided to call her mom. She picked up the phone and dialed the 10 numbers. The phone rang twice before someone picked up.

"Hello," An old familar voice said.

"Mom...,"

"Valerie?" She asked.

"Yeah," Valerie broke into tears.

"Oh Valerie, what's wrong?"

"Ginger died. It's all my fault. She was out looking for me. We got into an car accident!"

"Oh my god, Val. How could you be so stupid enough to get into a car with her? I've been trying to tell you she was dangerous. And Brandon told me you've been doing drugs together and drinking. Valerie, I'm so disappointed."

"Mom, did you hear me?? I told you my best freind just died and you're lecturing me on what Brandon told you I was doing."

"No Valerie. I'm not lecturing you. I'm just trying to make you see what could of happened. It could have you been who died and I dont know what i would have done if it was."

"I don't know why I called you. You always hated her. I knew you wouldn't understand!" Val screamed and then hung up on her.

Kelly

Carly walked over to Kelly's spot at the counter, placing down a Chef Salad with Low-Fat Russian dressing on the side.

"Thanks.", Kelly exhaustedly said.

"What's got you down?", Carly asked.

"Like I said before, Brandon being away, Lemme...and now Valerie."

"Valerie?", Carly questioned, "What happened now?"

"Oh that's right, you don't know. No one knows...", Kelly took a deep breath, "Last night, Valerie was in a car accident."

"Oh my god, is she okay??"

"Everything but her mind is..."

"Who else was with her?"

"Jen and Ginger. Ginger was driving. She was drunk, high."

"Are they okay?"

"Ginger is dead."

"Oh my god," Carly said again.

"My sentiments exactly. As much as I hated the girl, you never wish this on anyone. Never."

"I know what you mean."

"Anyways, I said I would drop by dinner for Jen and Val so can you wrap me up a Megaburger Deluxe and a Club Sandwhich, please?"

"Coming right up."

Valerie

Noah knocked on the front door to the bech apartment and Jen let him in.

"Hey, what happened to your arm?" He asked.

"We got in an accident. I'm sure Val will tell you all about it. She's in her bedroom," She told him.

"Thanks" He said walking to her room, "Valerie?"

"Noah!" She said turning around.

"Oh, God. What happened?" He said seeing the fright in her eyes.

"She died Noah. She's gone."

"Who?", he walked up to her.

"Ginger. I couldn't find the bottle so she was looking for it with me and the car went over the cliff," Val rambled on, crying on his shirt and holding him close to her.

"It's okay," he told her quietly, "It will be okay."

"How? Everything is a mess, Noah. I'm so sorry for not listening to you. I should have listened to you."

"Shh. Maybe you should lay down for a while," he suggested.

"No. Don't leave me again, Noah."

"I'm here for you, Valerie. You need me and I'm here for you."

"Are you really?" She asked.

"Yes, I am. Now lay down," He said walking over to her bed.

"Will you stay with me tonight?" She asked him.

"Yeah," He said laying down next to her, "Just close your eye,s" he said stroking her long brown hair."Everything will be okay," he said and watched her as she drifted off to sleep.

Kelly

Kelly tiredly got out of her car and headed up to Brandon's apartment. It sure had been a long day. As she approached the door, she noticed a folded piece of paper on the doormat. Figuring it must of been someone's mail or something that they dropped, she picked it up and went into the apartment without even giving it a second thought. She placed her keys, pocketbook and the note on the kitchen table and headed over to the answering machine. She walked back into the kitchen, deciding that she deserved some ice cream. She took a bowl from the cabinet and placed it on the table, this time, noticing what was written on the paper.

I warned you, Blondie...

She opened the piece of paper. As she read it to herself, her eyes opened widely and fear took hold of her body.

I warned you. I told you I'd mess you up. For good. I guess you didn't believe me. I never break my promises. You reported me and now you are going down. Don't count on winning. No one ever wins against me. No one.

-J.L.

Kelly dropped the letter to the floor, her hands shaking. This man intimidated the hell out of her. She was scared, really, truly scared. Not to mention, all alone with no one to protect her. She immediately darted for the phone to call Brandon over in Hong Kong.

Janet

At Casa Walsh

Janet took a sip of her water before bringing up a new topic for discussion, "Steve and I are going back to the orphanage Tuesday to look at more children."

She, Steve, Carly, and Adam were having dinner at The Moonlight Cafe. Leah was watching both Zach and Maddy at Carly's apartment.

"Steve and Janet are taking in a foster child," Carly explained to Adam so he would know what they were talking about.

"Ohhh," Adam responded, trying not to feel left out.

Steve took out the profiles he got in the mail today, "The Foster company sent us these. They're bios on a couple of children."

"But we still don't know what type of child we want to take in.", Janet said with an undertone of sadness.

"Actually, I was thinking about that," Carly said, "Wouldn't it be easier for you guys if you just looked at various children and see who catches your eye, instead of going in there with a set mind on the 'type' of child you want to take in? What if you can't find that 'type' of child you're looking for? Then you're back at square one."

"She does have a point, honey", Steve noted.

"Yeah, I see what she's saying," agreed Janet, "Keeping an open-mind probably would have more results."

Adam put an end to the conversation that he wasn't even involved in and said, "Oh look, here's our food."

Brandon

"If you don’t want me to come back early, will you at least stay at Brenda’s for a few nights?" he asked. "Just until I get home."

"We’ll see. I’m not even sure if I can take this threat seriously," Kelly told him. She had just called Brandon to see how his trip was gong. She wasn’t going to mention the note, but when he asked her what was wrong, she told him that there was nothing. And not much further into the phone call he told her she’s never been able to keep things from him. She realized he was right and explained everything to him. Well, she explained the note. She had yet to tell him the news about Valerie. "There’s more, Brandon."

"More?" He seemed a little surprised. "What else could be wrong? Is everyone else okay?"

"Mostly everyone."

More serious now, "What happened, Kel?"

"Valerie was in a car accident..."

"Is she okay?" he jumped. "What happened? When?"

"She’s okay, just scared. She was with Jen and Ginger."

"Jennifer Mancini?" he assumed.

"Yes. Both her and Val are okay, but Ginger didn’t make it."

"Man," he stoped to think for a second, "How’s Val handling it?"

"I think it’s too soon to tell."

"Listen," he said, changing the topic. "I’ll call Brenda and let her know you might give her a call and things. So I’ll call you later, Kelly. To check in."

"Don’t you dare. I’m a big girl, Brandon. I can handle this. I don’t want you to call me until you leave for the airport to confirm your flight number. Now tell me you love me, call your sister and I’ll talk to you in a few days."

There was no real use in arguing with her over something like this. "I love you Kel, and I’ll talk to you in a few days."

"I love you too. Goodnight."

Valerie

Later that evening, Kelly came back over to the beach apartment.

"Hey guys, I brought dinner," she called out as she came through the door.

"I'm not hungry!" Val yelled from her room.

"She's been in there practically all day," Jen said.

"Well, here you go. I'll go see what's wrong," she said, handing Jen her dinner.

She knocked on the door, "Val, are you okay?"

"I'm fine", she said looking out the window.

"I brought you a club sandwich."

"I'm not hungry," Valerie said again.

"You have to eat. Well, I have to get going. Call me if you need anything," She told her.

As soon as she heard Kelly leave, Val went to the phone and this time, dialed Noah's number.

"Hello," He answered.

"Can you come over? I really need you."

"Yeah, I'll be there soon" He simply said, no questions asked and hung up the phone.

Carly

At California University

Carly, Steve, Janet, and Adam were finishing their dinner. The conversation of Janet and Steve's adoption was continued and Carly could tell Adam's status in the conversation. She grabbed a piece of bread and buttered it. She exchanged a smile with Adam and ate her bread.

"So Carly, how is school?" Janet asked her.

"It's good. Adam's a little hard on me," she said and laughed. It was the truth!

"He'll ease up now, won't he?," Steve said poking fun at the situation, "Ya know Carly, I'm really glad you came back to LA and stayed.."

"Really? Or is it just because you missed Zach?" They all laughed. Adam felt very left out of the conversation.

"Hey Carly, it's getting late. We better get going," he said looking at his watch.

"You're right. Lets get the check."

Kelly shut the light off and turned over to go to sleep. It was only 11:30, but after the day she had, she needed the extra sleep. A few minutes passed and she started drifting off into a light slumber.

Her drifting was interrupted by the sudden noises she heard coming from outside the window. It sounded like someone was in the bushes. She turned the light back on and tip-toed out of bed and walked over to the window. She peered out but saw nothing but darkness. As she turned around to walk back towards the bed, the noises started up again.

Thinking back to the note and her conversation with Brandon, she quickly put her robe on and slipped on a pair of sandals. She ran out of her bedroom and through the kitchen. She opened the front door and ran a couple of doors down to Brenda's apartment.

Brenda opened the door after Kelly knocked.

"Hey...Can I bunk in with you?", Kelly asked.

"Brandon called me, told me what happened. You must be scared stiff. C'mon in."

Lexi

Lexi layed in her bed and switched the TV off. Michael was asleep on the couch and Lexi was starting to fall asleep. She still had bad and horrible thoughts about the previous night...the first time and the second time. She had let the bastard succeed in raping her. How could she? She wanted him behind bars. She flipped her hair and turned around to look at Michael. He was so....so....so nothing. He was just hers and she never thought of him as anyone else's. But now things were going down hard and fast and she had scorned the love of her life. Would this be a replay of their first engagenment? Lexi couldn't help but wonder...she fell fast asleep and dreamt of dreams she never had before.

Brandon

Hong Kong Time

Brandon walked through the house that was both foreign and familiar at the same time. It doesn’t seem to matter where his mother, Cindy Walsh, calls home. The layout is always the same whether it’s back east, in Beverly Hills, or now in Hong Kong. It’s always the same.

"How did you sleep?"Jim, his dad, asked him.

"Like a log." Brandon, still a little jet lagged, walked into the kitchen.

The sun was out and the food on the table didn’t look like breakfast, but more like..."Ready for lunch? his mom asked.

"Wow," Brandon said. "I didn’t think I’d sleep that long."

"We were wondering if you’d be awake in time for dinner," his dad joked, "We’re surprised to see you around for lunch."

"Well, when you have a book on the best sellers list you don’t need to be up before 10am," Cindy also poked.

"Hey, you two," he started as he got his coffee, "I could have stayed in LA and gotten this from Brenda and Steve. I still work, but my vacation officially started when I set foot out of that magazine office a few days ago."

"So," his dad started. "How are things at The Beat on the Street?" Jim asked. "It’s all going well for Steve and Janet, I hope."

"Oh, how is Madeline?" his mom asked. "The pictures Steve sent us were adorable," she said as if she missed having a baby in the home. "Wouldn’t it be nice to have a little boy or girl again, Jim?" she hypothetically asked, fully unawareof the confusion and fear she had just placed in her husband.Brandon laughed at the look on his father's face.

Brenda cooked up a rather delicious breakfast for her and Kelly, consisting of scrambled eggs, toast, and hash browns. Over the years, her cooking skills improved quite a bit.

"I can't thank you enough for letting me stay here.", Kelly said in between bites.

"Oh, don't mention it!! What are friends for?"

Kelly smiled, "I was just really scared...I didn't realize until last night how much power that guy had over me."

"Kelly, have you ever thought about getting a restraining order? I mean, he's already threatened to hurt you, what makes you think he won't?"

"I guess you're right. Maybe getting one is for the best thing. Especially since I'll be all alone in the apartment."

"Oh no you won't!", Brenda nearly shouted, "You're staying here until Brandon gets back."

"But--"

"No 'but's!", Brenda pointed her finger, signaling Kelly to give up. She wasn't going to win this one. So she brought up another topic.

"Brenda, last night, when Brandon called you, did he mention Valerie at all?"

"Valerie? Why would he mention her?"

"Brenda," Kelly started calmly and softly, "the other night, Valerie was in a car accident."

"Oh my god! Is she okay? What happened?"

"It was the night of the party at the beach, she was in the car with Ginger and Jen. They swerved, ran off the cliff, and crashed. Ginger is dead. It's taken a real toll on Val's mind. You should of seen her yesteday."

"I can't even begin to imagine."

"Yeah, I was thinking, maybe we should stop over there, make sure she's okay? I don't exactly trust Jen."

"I know what you mean. I'll clean up and then we'll go."

"Okay, let me help!"

Lexi

Michael woke up and saw Lexi asleep. He went into the bathroom and was about to take a shower when he heard Lexi say his name. "Michael...Michael are you here?" she whispered.

Michael turned around and walked into the bedroom. He sat on the edge and touched her hand. "I'm here."

"Good...I want to go downstairs to the spa. Do you mind waiting up here?" she asked him and sat up. Her gold earrings reflected the sunlight.

"Are you sure Lexi? I think we should stay here." Michael got up and had made up his mind when Lexi grabbed his hand.

"No Michael. I can't be cooped up here all my life," she whispered and he looked at her. She was beautiful... he couldn't keep her up here all day. Lexi knew he was going to say yes so she jumped out of bed and had her bathing suit on! She gave him a kiss on the cheek. "Thanks!"

"You planned this, didn't you?"

She nodded and smirked, grabbed a towel and headed downstairs. Michael laid on the bed for a while. He turned on the radio to take a nap when he heard a song.

They say it's a river, that circles the earth A beam of light shining to the edge of the universe It conquers all, it changes everything

Michael listened to the words. It sounded so beautiful and reminded him of Lexi.

Lexi was at the spa and the radio was on....she heard a beautiful song that reminded her of Michael. She closed her eyes and listened.

They say it's a blessing, they say it's a gift

they say it's a miracle

and I believe that it is

it conquers all, but it's a mystery

Love breaks your heart

Love takes no less than everything

Love makes it hard

and it fades away so easily

In this world we've created

where this place that we lived

in a blink of an eye the darkness slips in

love lights the world

unites the love that´s for eternity

Michael smiled. He loved her so much. He wanted to see her so badly and stroke her red hair and caress her body.

Love brakes the chain

Love aches for everyone of us

Love takes the tears of pain,

and it turns it in to the beauty that remains

Look at this place

it was paradise, but now it's dying

I´ll brave the love

I´ll take, my chances that it´s not too late

Love brakes your heart

Love takes no less than everything

Love makes it hard

and fades away so easily

Oh oh oh

Lexi got up and wrapped her towel around her bathing suit and she towel dried her hair. She needed to go to Michael and tell him she loved him. She hurt him last night--not that she would normally care but something inside of her was telling her to go. She rode the elevator as Michael lay on the bed thinking of Lexi. She rode the elevator as Michael lay on the bed thing of Lexi. Michael sat up as Lexi opened the door. She went over to him, as the song was playing, and said "Michael, I love you." They kissed and Michael slowly took off her towel.

Love brakes the chain

Love aches for everyone of us

Love takes the tears and the pain,

and turns it into the beauty that remains

They made love for the first time in a year and a half. Lexi wasn't even scared anymore...she would always have Michael.

Valerie

Kelly and Brenda walked into the Beach Apartment. All was very quiet.

"Valerie..." Kelly called out.

"Where is she?" Asked Brenda.

"Probably in her room," Kelly said walking towards Val's bedroom and Brenda following her, "She was not even talking to me yesterday, totally ingorning me. But who can blame her. I actually feel quite bad for her."

"Oh, so do I" exclaimed Brenda, "I feel somewhat responsible. Like I stole Noah from her when she needed him the most..." she explained.

"No, Noah tried to be there for her after the breakup. Valerie is the one who pushed him away." She said opening the door. Her eyes widened as she saw Noah and Valerie in bed together.

"Well, I guess she didn't push him away last night!" Brenda said in a pissed off tone, and then walked back towards the back door.

"Brenda, wait!" Kelly yelled and followed, accidentally slamming the door behind her.

After hearing a door slam, Noah woke up. He looked around but saw nothing, thought it was his imangation and just looked at Val to make sure she was still there. For someone who was going through so much, she actually looked very peaceful sleeping. He felt so bad for everything he had done wrong and if he could undo it all, he would. Just then, Valerie began to wake up.

"Good morning," Noah said.

"What are you doing?" She asked.

"Watching you sleep," He smiled.

"Thanks for staying with me. It means a lot to me."

"It means a lot to me, too. I'm glad you know you can come to me. All I have ever wanted to do was help you."

"Well, Noah you can't always help me."

"I have to try. I owe you that much."

Val scoffed, "Is that was this is? Do you feel sorry for me? I wanted you to be here to help me, not pity me!"

"Valerie, you're overreacting." He said truthfully.

"I think you need to go. I want to be by myself," She told him, pointing to the door.

"Val!"

"Noah just go," She said and with that Noah got up and left the room.

Kelly

Kelly got back into her car after the extremely short visit to Val's. Brenda got in, slamming the door, causing Kelly to jump at the suprise of the loud bang. Brenda glared straight out in front of her, thinking to herself.

Kelly broke the silence while starting the car, "So...that was a--"

"Waste of time?", Brenda said with a bit of rudeness in her voice.

"Not exactly what I was going for but...", she pulled out of the parking lot.

"But what, Kel? They slept together!"

"We don't know that.", Kelly stopped at a red light.

"Okay, fine they didn't, it only looks that way!"

Kelly sighed, she really didn't want to get into this. She changed the subject, "So you never told me what happened with your meeting with Gabe yesterday..."

All thoughts of Val and Noah vanished from Brenda's a head and a big smile appeared on her face, "I signed a contact!"

"Brenda, that's great!"

"Yeah, it is. I'm so happy Kel, I just hope it all works out. Where are we going, anyway?"

"The police department...I'm going to get the restraining order."

Brenda smiled, happy that Kelly took her advice, "Lead the way."

Brandon

Brandon and his dad were seeing the sites he missed last time around. Jim glanced at his son and saw that he was there in body but nott quite in spirit. "What’s wrong, Brandon?" he asked. "Something on your mind?"

He didn’t say anything at first and then he started to explain. "Do you ever wish I had married Kelly?"

"I know how much you love her. And you’ll marry the right person when the right time comes along."

"And mom?"

"Your mother loves you and Kelly. You'd get no argument from her if you wanted to ask her to marry you again." They continued walking and Brandon knew that what his father said and what he translated it into was totally different. But, like they say, people only hear what they want to hear.

Brenda

Kelly and Brenda entered the police station and looked around. Brenda hung back a little as Kelly walked straight up to the policewoman behind the counter.

"May I help you, ma'am?" the policewoman asked.

"Yes, I need to talk to someone about getting a restraining order please," Kelly said matter of factly.

"Okay, have a seat and someone will be out to help you shortly."

"Thanks," Kelly said before leading the way over to a bench across the waiting room. She and Brenda sat down and waited. And waited. And waited.

Brenda glanced at her watch, "How long does it take?" Kelly just shook her head in reply.

"So, Brandon was pretty worried, huh?" Brenda tried to start a conversation.

Kelly smiled shyly, "That's putting it mildly."

"He loves you."

"I love him."

"Why didn't you get married?" Brenda had to ask.

"I don't know, Bren," Kelly said. "I guess the time just wasn't right." Brenda nodded her understanding. Boy, did she ever understand that.

Carly

Carly and Zach woke up from their morning nap on the couch. It was noon-ish and they took a nap, being tired. The night before, Carly and Adam decided to meet at the Armani Cafe and the children could go, and maybe make friends. "Zach, get dressed. We are going to meet Adam's daughter! She's your age, you know," Carly went on.

Zach came in with a pair of baggy jeans and a old tee shirt on. "I don't like Adam. I like Mark."

"Zach, you've barely given him a chance! Give him a fair chance, for me. Please?" Carly said.

Zach nodded and went into his room. "If you say so," he muttered not being happy about it.

"And change while your at it!" Carly yelled as started to pick out her outfit for the evening.

Valerie

After Noah left, Valerie tried to go back to sleep. Seeing that that wasn't working, she left her room and decided she would talk to Jen, but instead found a note that said she had ran out to go visit with her brother. Since Val was all by herself, she decided to go take a walk outside on the beach.. She threw on a pair of shorts and a sweatshirt and headed outside. As she walked along the coast of the beach, she thought about the friend that she had lost.

"So Ginger, are you sure about this?" Val asked Ginger as she was ready to get her tattoo.

"Of course! It's my 18th birthday, I'm gonna live a little."

"Live a little? " Honey, you already lived more than a little."

"That's true." Ginger laughed.

The tattoo guy walked over to Ginger, "So, are you ready?"

"Yup, where's my shot?" she asked Val.

Val handed her a shot of Jack Daniels, "Here you go."

"You gotta drink with me!", Ginger encouraged.

"I will"

"Okay on 3!"

"1...2...3...", They counted together and then drank their drinks.

Val didn't realize how good of friends they were. She began to cry,"No Valerie! Don't do this. to yourself. She wasn't always there for you.", Val tried to convince herself.

"Ginger, I can't belevie you're blackmailing me. I thought I was your best freind!", Val shouted into the phone.

"I want $10,000", Ginger said, point blank.

"That's all I have..."

"Fine, then I want David."

"I'm not letting you sleep with my boyfriend!", Val insisted."That's the deal..." Ginger said hanging up the phone.

Val couldn't take all the memories and ran back to the apartment.

Dylan

Just as he did months before, when he moved her here, Dylan stood before her grave."It’s a nice day today, don’t you think?" he asked her.

No reply.

"Toni, there’s something I felt I should talk to you about."

He was feeling a little strange. He wasn't the type of person who would talk to a grave. But he let a long pause pass inbetween questions.

"No one else would be as honest as you. I’m not sure what I should do about Gina. There’s a side to her that is ugly, I know. But then there’s the side that only David, Brandon, and I have seen. I’m going to apologize to her for the way I reacted the other day. She just doesn’t understand that no matter how strongly I feel about her and I, I’m always going to have a place for Brenda. Is that wrong?"

No reply. He thought about what she might say. It might go something like...

You are a man of few words and strong emotions, despite what other people might say. Do what your heart says is right for you. I know you care about Brenda.

She was your shoulder when I left. I also know you love Gina.

She’s your comfort zone when things get tough. You returned to Beverly Hills and was forced to face the tragady that had taken place.

She was there to witness that. Only you know what is best for you. Everyone has something ugly about them Dylan.

You should know that.You should also know that it’s possible for a person to change.

He smiled at the fictional pep talk he had just received. "Not bad..." he softly said, "But you were wrong about something, Toni. Not everyone has ugly in them," he said. "You didn’t."

Lexi

Lexi opened her eyes and she was laying next to Michael. It was around 2 o'clock and she smiled. She was so afraid to have sex again but with Michael everything was so easy. She loved him. He was asleep so she crept out of bed. She had to make a phone call. She grabbed the phone and walked into the bathroom. She dialed the number.

"Federal Crime Department, how may I help you?" the receptionist answered.

"I'd like to talk to Detective Black," she said. "This is Lexi Sterling, he'll take the call."

She sighed. "Hold one moment, please."

"Detective Black speaking. How are you Miss Sterling?"

"I'm great, afterall I was just raped!" she said sarcastically. "So when is the bastard going to be behind bars?"

"We haven't found him yet," he replied contently knowing Lexi would be angry.

"What do you mean you don't know??!!!!?" she exclaimed. "You find him and you put him in jail!"

"We are very sorry, Ma'am."

"You're sorry? I had two inch skull break because of him and if you think I am going to rest for a second, you're wrong!" Lexi hung up the phone and sighed. She heard Michael's voice.

"Hey Lexi, what's going on in there?" he asked and opened the bathroom door.

"Uhh, nothing," Lexi lied, hiding the phone.

Steve

"How does it look?", Steve asked while pouring himself some fresh brewed coffee.

"Well...", Janet replied from Steve's desk. She was editing his latest article on the computer, "Don't you think it's a little far-fetched?"

"Far-fetched? Heck no! It's totally possible."

"Right, Steve. Five years from now, when it rains, green slime is going to come down instead of water and the puddles of slime will form into one hugh monster?!?! Like the blob??? Come on, Steve, you can do better than this."

"But it's a 'What if...' piece. 'What if...' five years from now, when it rains, green slime is going to come down instead of water and the puddles will form into one huge monster."

"Like the blob.", Janet added, seeing he left that out.

"Exactly!"

"Steve, we can't use this."

"Why?"

"I just told you why. And...", she said, "...because I said so!", she said cutely.

Steve walked over to her and kissed her neck, "Maybe I can convince you...", he said seductively. Janet stood up as Steve started unbuttoning her dress shirt. They kissed some more while Janet led Steve to the closet. He swung open the door and they stumbled in and had sex.

Valerie

When Val got back to the apartment, she ran into her room. She went to her stash and took a good, hard look at it. She didn't know what to do. She knew that if she got high, she would forgot about it all but she knew the consquences that came along with it and she realized she didn't want to go through it anymore. She picked up the box and threw it across the room. She closed the drawer but then opened it back up again. This time, she saw a rehab card that Noah had once gave her. She made a drastic decision and called the number.

Dylan

Dylan was waiting for Gina to take a break. He had gotten himself a coffee and her favorite flavor of tea. He was about to extend an apology so he wanted to do things right. "Gina!"

She walked out of the store and even though she was still mad at him, she decided to see what he wanted.

“Wait up a minute. There’s something I need to say.” He walked up to her and offered the tea.

“Trying to kiss up?” she noted.

“Listen I know how things must look between Brenda and I, but it’s not what you think. I had a talk with a friend and…”

“Brandon’s still in Hong Kong,” she said to him, “Who did you talk to?” she asked, “Kelly?”

“No. Listen,Gina…”

He’s being nice.Too nice for Dylan McKay. He was trying harder than he normally would. And she saw it, but she still thought it was important to know who he had talked to. “Tell me, Dylan. Who’s been telling you to break up with me?”

“She…”

“She?” Gina snapped.

.“Stop,” he said flatly as he put his hand over her mouth. “I talked to Toni, my dead wife. And what I got out of it was that I should go where I feel I need to be. And right now I like where I am… with you.” He slowly took his hand away. She was speechless. So she returned the apology with a long kiss.

Brandon

Late in the afternoon, Hong Kong time, Brandon needed to take a quick break from his vacation and make a phone call about a possible book deal. Long before the gang took the trip to New York, he had met up with someone named Kyle McBride. As it turns out, Melrose Place has had a bit of an interesting past. So interesting that Brandon has decided to try and turn in into his next novel. That is, if he can ever get a hold of Kyle. “What do you mean he’ll be out of the office for the next two weeks? I have a meeting with him in one week.”

“Walsh. Brandon Walsh,” he told her. “I’ll get back to you. If you happen to have the ability to get a message to Mr. McBride, please ask him to call my home and leave a message. I’ll be back home in a few days.” He hung up the phone and thought for a minute. Is Kyle really that busy? Maybe he decided he doesn’t want to do the sequel and is avoiding him. He’ll try and track him down once he’s back in LA. Until then, it’s his vacation. He’ll take care of business later.

Janet

At Casa Walsh

"That was nice", Janet said with her head on Steve's bare chest.

Steve stroked her hair, "Yeah, kind of reminds you of the old days, huh?"

"Yeah...", Janet said quietly.

They were lying on the closet floor with the door open so they would have more room. Luckily no one was coming to the office today. Or so they thought. They were silent for a few minutes and heard the office door start to bang back and fourth as if someone was trying to get in. Janet quickly got up and pulled Steve with her. They shut the door and tried to remain quiet in the closet. Steve held Janet close while trying to hold in his laughter.

They heard someone say, "Shoot. Forgot my keys.". It sounded like their Movie Critic, Todd.

When they heard him walk away, Steve couldn't help but burst out laughing.

Carly

Adam, Carly, Zach, and Laney were eating at the table. They were all having a conversation about Laney's school. "So Laney, you sound like a genius!" Carly exclaimed and exchanged smiles with Adam.

Laney blushed. "Oh please....compared to Zach I'm nothing!"

Zach rudely replied, "You ain't kidding."

Carly was appalled! How could her son be so rude? "Zach, apologize right now." Adam looked at her, telling her it wasn't nesecary but it was for her. "Zachary!"

"I'm sorry Laney," Zach said solemnly and looked away from Carly as his food came. Adam ordered a steak sandwich, Carly ordered a chicken sandwich, Zach ordered chicken fingers and tator tots, and Laney ordered a hamburger.

"Mmm, this steak looks delicious," Adam said looking under the bun of his sandwich while also trying to break the silence. "What about your's Carly?"

Carly looked at the meat. The Peach Pit had better, but it would do. She took a bite of it. "Mmmm," she said. "This is great!" she said with food in her mouth. Adam laughed. They enjoyed the rest of the evening, but Zach wouldn't talk to Carly.

Steve

Steve and Janet treated themselves to a night out and decided to go to the After Dark. While Steve was getting a drink at the bar, Janet was over by the connecting Peach Pit doors, talking to Nat.

Noah handed Steve a Corona Light and started up a conversation, "Have you heard about Val?"

"Heard what?", Steve asked curiously.

"She was in a car accident the other day."

"You're kidding?" Noah shook his head sideways. "Honey, come here", Steve called to Janet.

Janet walked over, "What?"

"Valerie was in a car accident last night.", Steve said bluntly.

"Oh my, is she okay?"

Noah answered, being that he was the only one of the three that knew, "Yeah but it's taken a toll on her emotionally. Especially since..."

Steve was extremely impatient, "Since what??"

"Since Ginger was killed in the accident.", Noah finished.

"Never cared for her much anyway..." Janet said, kind of heartlessly.

"Honey!", Steve said suprised by her comment, "How could you say that? None of us really liked her, but still!"

Janet saw his point loud and clear, "Yeah, I'm sorry", she said with a whole lot of remorse in her voice.

Noah continued with the story, "Jen was with them too. She fractured her arm. She seems fine though. I stayed with Val last night."

"Oh, you did?", Steve said with a cheesy grin.

"It wasn't like that, man. I couldn't bare to leave her alone and she didn't want to be. She got in one of her bad moods when we woke up this morning though."

"I know how those can be with her, " Janet said.

"She belongs in rehab.", Steve pointed out.

Noah agreed, "But just how are going to get her there?"

Dylan

After the talk he had this afternoon with Gina, he knew he should call Brenda. He picked up the phone and dialed the number. She picked up, but was on her way out the door. “It’ll just take a sec,” he told her.

But she was in a hurry and had someone waiting on her. They agreed to talk later and it was a good thing. Dylan wasn’t exactly sure what he was supposed to say. Should he wait to have the talk? After all, she did just get the opportunity of a lifetime to star in the TV Show.

Since Brandon was in Hong Kong and Steve was out with Janet, there was only one person left to turn to. So he grabbed his keys and headed over to the Peach Pit to have a heart to heart with Nat.

Carly

Adam pulled his Mercedes Benz into the parking lot of Melrose Place. He parked right outside of Carly's apartment.

"Can I walk you to you're door?", Adam asked Carly, nicely.

"NO!!", Zach rudely answered before Carly had a chance too.

Carly turned and looked into the backseat, "Zach!!!"

"What?!?", he asked as if he did nothing wrong.

Carly turned back to Adam, "Thanks for a lovely evening, despite some rude comments," she glared at Zach, "Laney, it was nice meeting you. You are a very cute little girl. Maybe I could take you to the mall one day? Kind of a girls' thing."

"Really?", Laney asked excitedly, with her big bown eyes, "I'd love that!"

Carly laughed at her enthusiasm, "It's a date then. Goodnight Adam." Adam leaned over and gave her a quick kiss. "Thanks again."

"My pleasure.", he said sweetly.

"Zach, out of the car! And say 'thank you'!", Carly said sternly. They both got out. Zach barely even mumbled the two simple words.

After the two car doors were shut, Laney said, "I like her daddy, I really do!"

"Me too, sweetie, me too."