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Someone Like You	By : stranger88 Category: Celebrities - Misc > Crossovers Views: 1940 -:- Recommendations : 1 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: This is a work of fiction. I do not own the members of the band PVRIS/Paramore, I do not know them, and I do not profit from these writings.

Chapter List
- 24
- 25
- 26
A/N: I used the song and lyrics “We Can Go Anywhere” By Jesse McCartney. I do not own the song. I do not make money off the song.
A/N: Someone Like You is dedicated to my best friend Sheyenne Nicole Whaley. I miss you every single day. I love you. Rest easy baby girl.
A/N: I’m so sorry this chapter took so long. I can’t tell you how many times I restarted and rewrote this. There will be an Epilogue. I don’t normally do Epilogues, but I need to fill in some plot holes before I move onto the third installment. But thank you all for reading part two! Part three will be here as soon as I can get it done! I hope you have your tissues for this chapter…….

Enjoy!

Chapter 25: Wait.....

"Okay, got a few more shots. But let's take a quick break. I need to change batteries." Andy said with a smile. Ethan and Alex nodded at
her smiling. They decided to hold off their wedding for a little longer, while Alex was trying to prove himself innocent with some women coming forward with accusations against him.
Of course no one believed these women. For one, he was always with Lynn and Brian during tours, he always shared a room with Brian. If Angel was with them, he would share a room with Mark. Lynn would have her own room unless Angel was around and Angel would split her time between her room and Brian's.
So when these allegations came to light of course Kara and Melissa jumped right on it. Alex even had proof that he was never in the bars these women claimed he was in. Until things blew over it was decided that Alex would take a step back from PVRIS. It was a hard decision for all of them, but they knew it was best for now. The court date was set and evidence was already being gathered. Mark and Lisa also had proof of Alex's innocence. They just had to wait until his name was cleared and he would rejoin the band.
Until then, Brian and Lynn decided not to replace him since they both knew how to play bass, guitar, and keyboards. Cam would still be their tour drummer. They still haven't heard any word from Justin. They see him post on social media but he hasn't reached out to anyone.
Lynn was busy at home with the twins and Mila's help. Andy had no idea when Lynn had time to create music, but she would come home hearing music. Always brought a smile to her face.
All in all everyone was pulling for Alex. From eye witness statements, to footage of Alex being in hotels at the time these women said he was at the bars or another place. It definitely was looking good for him. But they also knew they had to be careful because sometimes life would throw them a curveball.
Andy looked at her best friend and smiled. She saw Ethan and Alex standing super close with their foreheads resting against each other's. Their hands interlocked between them. The sun was just setting in twilight and it was perfect. She raised her camera and snapped a few pictures. This was the one. She knew it. This would be the one they would use for their save the dates.
"Hey, we're ready." Alex said, turning his head but seeing Andy already with her camera raised.
"Actually I think we got it. Come take a look."
The two men walked over and she showed them the pictures. They were talking amongst themselves when Andy felt her phone go off in her back pocket. She gave her camera to Ethan so they could go through some more pictures.
She walked away pulling out her phone from her pocket and saw it was someone she hasn't talked to in a while.
"Hello?" Andy said.
"Hey Andrea, it's Keith." The voice said.
"Yeah, I know. You don't call unless it's serious. What's up?"
"It's Shey."
Andy's heart stopped. Keith used to be Jess. He came out to Andy first and they kept in touch almost every day. Ethan is her best friend. But Keith and her have been best friends since they were twenty. Keith would only call Andy if it was serious.
"What do you mean it's Shey? You haven't talked to her in years. Plus she and your wife don't get along.
Andy heard Keith sigh. He cleared his throat, "I guess Shane didn't tell you yet. He said he's been trying to get a hold of you for the last few hours.
Andy checked her phone and saw messages from Shey's brother saying he had bad news and that she needed to call him as soon as possible. Another message saying that Keith would call.
She put her cell phone back up to her ear, "Keith what's going on?"
Ethan and Alex decided to pick at least four of the pictures Andy took. Ethan smiled and looked up from the camera, he was looking for Andy. He spotted her and told Alex he would be right back. He kept his eyes on his best friend and he watched as she fell to her knee. His smile faded as his pace quickened. He got closer and he heard her let out a sob. He rushed to her side just as she collapsed into his arms.
"Andy?" He said softly. Andy just sobbed. He called for Alex. Alex looked up and saw what was going on. He gave Andy's camera to the assistant and rushed over to them.
"Andy? What's wrong?"
"Take her. I need to talk to whoever is on the phone."
Alex nodded and wrapped his arms around Andy. Ethan took Andy's phone and spoke into it. He heard Keith and asked what was going on. That's when Ethan said he would call him back and hung up. Alex looked up at his fiance and saw the tears streaming down his face.
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"I can't get a hold of Andy. She said she would be home an hour ago." Lynn said looking at her phone after calling her wife for the fifth time.
"Maybe she and the guys got caught up with the photoshoot." Angel said nursing her son.
"Could be. When she and Ethan get together they always lose track of time."
Mila came down the stairs after putting the twins down for the night. She took a seat next to Angel on the couch, "How's little B doing?"
Angel smiled, "He's good. Now that he's not fussy."
The front door opened and they all turned waiting to see if it was Andy and the other two, but in walked Wendy. Lynn stood up after taking one look at her. "Wendy what's wrong?"
Wendy couldn't get the words out; she just started to sob. Lynn rushed over to her and wrapped her arms around. She didn't know what's going on but seeing her sister in law in this state she knew something was horribly wrong. It was November and back in April they had to say goodbye to her and Andy's Grandfather. Andy took it really hard, because for the longest time she was raised as if she was the oldest. Until her family found Crystal, Katie, and Jake.
Lynn knew something was different. She helped Wendy to the small couch. Once she was settled Mila said she was going to put on some tea. Lynn nodded and sat next to Wendy. Angel covered up and looked at her friend with concern.
"Wendy what's going on?"
Lynn gave her a tissue and watched as she wiped away her tears, "We need to get everyone here. Andy, Ethan, and Alex already know what's going on, but we need Kara, Brian and David here as well. Melissa is gonna meet us in Virginia.
"Wait, what do you mean Melissa is gonna meet us in Virginia?" Lynn asked.
"Andy will explain. Just please can you get everyone here?" Wendy said, trying to hold back a sob. Lynn nodded and grabbed her phone off of the table to call her brother, while Angel was doing the same thing calling Brian.
There was a knock at the door and Mila said she would answer it. She looked through the peephole and smiled. She opened up the door, "Hey Mr. Kyle. Mama isn't home yet, but come in, Mom is in the other room with Auntie Angel, and Wendy."
The tall, husky, brunette man smiled walking into the town house, "Thanks kiddo." He said, patting her on the head. He walked in and saw Wendy. She made eye contact with him and he just nodded.
Lynn got off her phone and looked up seeing her wife's boss, "Kyle what's going on?"
"It's bad news Lynn. I'm here to check on Andy. She already got the news, but I need to speak with her in private."
Lynn nodded and offered for him to take her seat next to Wendy. He put his arm around her and she let out more tears. The door opened, and in walked Kara, David, and Brian.
"What's going on?! Is everyone okay?!" Brian asked, rushing over to Angel and his son.
"We're okay, but we're waiting on Ethan, Alex, and Andy. Something's wrong." Angel whispered the last part.
Mila came into the living room seeing everyone, "Guess I'll make some more tea." She turned back to the kitchen.
Ethan parked his car in front of the town house, "We'll be inside." He whispered to Andy. He gave her hand a squeeze and he let go. He put the car in park, turned it off and got out of the car along with Alex.
They walked into the town house and everyone was asking what was going on. Ethan told them they needed to give Andy a few minutes. She would tell them everything.
Andy didn't know how she was going to do this. She didn't know how she was going to tell Mila. She didn't know how she was going to handle this. This was different. This one cuts so deep. This one would take a long time to heal.
"I'm sorry!" She yelled. "I'm so so sorry! I'm sorry I wasn't there! I'm sorry I didn't answer back! I'm so sorry!" She let out a sob and took a deep breath. She had to collect herself. She had to collect her thoughts. She had to figure out what to say. She wiped her face and took a deep breath. She unbuckled her seat belt. Before she got out she took out her phone from her pocket and texted Nina. She hoped her friend would travel to see her. She really needed her guidance and help. Andy really didn't know how strong she would be able to be.
She cleared her throat and finally got out of the car. She stood up and closed the car door, and looked at the townhouse. She waited a few more moments in the snow and finally took steps to go inside.
Kyle was helping Mila give out cups of tea for everyone. Ethan and Wendy were in a comforting embrace. Everyone else was just waiting to find out what was going on.
Andy took off her jacket and hung it up on the hook by the front door. She closed her eyes and took another breath and nodded. She had to do this. She took off her shoes and placed them in a spot and finally walked out of the little alcove. She put her hands in her pocket and looked up seeing everyone there. Ethan, Alex, Wendy, and Kyle already knew the news.
Now it was time to tell everyone else.
Lynn looked around and noticed Shey wasn't with them. Surely someone would have told her to come over. Even though she and Andy were having problems. Hayely and Michael were in Nashville. Brandon and Brittiney were still in Georgia. So she figured Andy or Ethan would tell them what was going on. She could feel her phone was going off. She was about to answer, but she saw Andy walk in. She could tell Andy had been crying. Something definitely was wrong.
She went up to her wife, "Baby, what's wrong."
"It's Shey." Andy whispered
"What do you mean?"
Andy cleared her throat, "Thank you guys for getting here. I got a phone call today." Andy tried to keep her voice from breaking.
"This is something that I wished wasn't true. But um, Shey passed away last night." She told everyone. There were gasps and Lynn wrapped her arms around her wife. Andy let out another sob. Lynn knew just how much Shey meant to Andy. They were best friends for 20 years.
"What happened?" Brian asked.
"It was an overdose. The last few months Shey gotten into some bad habits. She kept it from us, but Andy figured out something was wrong in August. She stopped going to photoshots. Missed deadlines. Just started spiraling. Last night she shot up and just never woke up. She was with her boyfriend and another friend. They freaked out called 911 and she's gone." Ethan told everyone.
Andy let go of Lynn, "I need some time."
"Of course." Lynn whispered. Andy took a step back and went upstairs.
"Wendy said something about us going to Virginia?" Angel asked.
Ethan nodded, "If it's okay with all of you, we leave for Virginia in a few days. Shey's dad reached out to Andy to help plan the service. Andy was Shey's one constant good friend. Andy was always there for her. But not these last few months. Andy saw track marks on Shey's arm. Andy walked away, Shey reached out to Andy a couple of weeks ago, but Andy never responded. Shey needed money and Andy couldn't bring herself to answer. But I bet you right now Andy is beating herself up for not answering back."
Ethan walked up to Lynn and took her hands in his, "This one is going to hurt her a lot deeper than the other times. This one cuts her deep. So be patient, she'll still be here but she won't be. Just let her heal in her own way."
Lynn nodded, "Of course. Of course. I need to write Mila's school. Let them know she's going to be missing school and that she needs her assignments. I need to pack for the girls. I'm sure Andy wants to leave soon."
Ethan nodded, "She wants to leave the day after tomorrow."
Lynn nodded, "Okay I can book our flights and let her know. This is different.
Again Ethan nodded, "Yeah, she's lost friends and family, but this is the first best friend she lost. Sadly Keith won't be able to make it. It's a long story I'm sure she'll tell you one day. But right now she needs time. Just let her be."
Ethan hugged Lynn and he could feel her nod against his chest. Ethan felt a tug at his shirt and he looked down seeing Mila with tears running down her cheeks, "Is it true?"
Lynn looked at her daughter and knelt down wrapping her arms around her, "Oh baby girl."
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"How is she holding up?" Kevin asked coming into the dining room with a cup of hot chocolate for Lynn.
Lynn sighed, "Not good. Don't get me wrong, she's been helping out with the girls. She's still helping with their first birthday. She's been very supportive of me and everything, but I know we're just her distractions.
Kevin nodded, taking a seat across from his daughter in law. His oldest daughter was hurting and he didn't know how to help. He asked what he could do to help both his daughters, and they both said there was nothing but to just be there.
Kevin hated seeing his daughters hurting, but now they both were hurting far worse than he could ever imagine. He never taught them how to go through grief, it just happens. Everyone heals in their own way.
"Thank you for letting us stay here on such short notice." Lynn said and Kevin waved his hand.
"Any excuse to see you all. Plus Susan loves it when she sees the girls.
Lynn nodded and smiled. She could hear Susan and Mila in the living room laughing. Andy told her she had to go and get away for a while. Lynn didn't try to stop her. She didn't know where she went, but she knew Andy just needed time. She knew Andy would contact her if she needed to. But this was something that Andy had to deal with on her
own. She did let her wife know that she would be her if she wanted to talk.
Everyone else would be traveling down in a few days while Andy and Shey's family would get everything ready. Andy's boss Kyle spoke to her in private. After almost an hour of them talking Kyle told Lynn that he was giving Andy as much time as she needed. There was no rush to go back to work, and he would continue to pay her. He was giving Shey's last commission to her parents to help pay for the funeral. He said that he would also be in attendance, just to let him know when.
"Hon! Where is Andrea?!" Susan called from the other room, breaking Lynn out of her thoughts.
"She went on a drive hon. She just lost her best friend. She needs time." Kevin called back. He shook his head and gave Lynn a small smile.
"Sometimes she doesn't get it. But she also cares." Kevin said.
"Andrea kinda warned me about Ma, so no worries. I just hope Andy's okay. Wendy will be in tomorrow with David and Kara. Melissa is at her parents house. I guess she and her husband are separating and she's been down here for a while." Lynn said before taking a sip of her hot chocolate.
Kevin nodded, "She came by the other day to visit. Said she didn't like it but it's what's best for her. Apparently Myke found someone new already. So that kinda tells me something."
Lynn's eyes widened slightly and nodded. She knew all about the new girl Myke was with. According to Melissa it was going on for almost two years right under her nose, but she was so busy with her career she ignored it. It wasn't until one of her conversations with Andy that she realized that her husband was cheating on her. Melissa was also like Andy when something happens they have to do things their own way. This past year has also been rough for Andy, from losing a good friend in March which she kept to herself, losing her Grandfather, now this. But she kept pushing through. Until now. Lynn has seen her wife break down time and time again, but this was different. This was a different breakdown. She just hoped she was alright.
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Andy sighed as she sat down in the confessional. She closed the curtain and let out a long sigh. She heard the sound of the sliding panel that separated her and the Catholic Priest.
"Forgive me Father for I have sinned, it has been almost 25 years since my last confession. Did I say that right? I'm sorry it's been such a long time." Andy said softly.
"It's okay my child. Go on with your confession." The Priest said.
"I lost my best friend a few days ago. The last time I talked to her I told her she needed to get her life together, I couldn't be part of it anymore. For the first time in 20 years I couldn't be there for her. I couldn't keep that promise to her mom." Andy could feel the tears coming to her eyes for the third time that day. She took a breath and wiped away her tears with the shirt. She cleared her throat.
"Sorry, um, but there was a time where I wanted to be with her. But then I met my wife. Even then, I would have dropped everything to be with her. But Shey never saw me that way. I was her last good one. Her last constant in her life. She reached out to me, but I never responded back. I can't shake this guilty feeling I have. That I should have responded. That I should have told her it was going to be okay. That I could have helped her. I felt her the night after. She was scared. I knew she needed my help. I had sleep paralysis for two nights, and I just knew it was her.
I just don't know what to do." Andy wiped her face again with her shirt and cleared her throat.
"I'm sorry for your loss my child. A loss like this is truly difficult. There are times where we can't be the light in someone's life. No matter how much it destroys us. There are times where you have to put yourself first. Which is what you did. You had a strong friendship at one point and it continued for years. But there always comes a time when we have to break the bond just for a little while so that we may find ourselves. Tell me what was the promise you made to her mom." The Priest said softly.
Andy looked down at her hands and shook her head, "Before her mom died she asked me to take care of Shey. I told her I promise and that I would do all I can to make sure she would be okay. But I couldn't keep it when she started doing drugs. Weed was okay with me. She always did weed, but it was when she started doing harder drugs. I couldn't have her around my family. My oldest looked up to Shey so much, and I had to push Shey away," Andy had to catch her breath.
"I didn't want my daughter to follow in Shey's footsteps. I couldn't, not after what Mila has been through since she was five. I just wish I could have done more for my best friend."
The Priest nodded, he needed a moment to think about what he wanted to say. He could tell this was weighing on her mind a lot. He just didn't want to say anything to upset her. He cleared his throat and began to speak, "You kept your promise, even if you think you didn't. You kept her safe. It was her choice to go down a road you couldn't follow. In the end you did what was best for you and your family. I can not imagine what your oldest daughter is going through. But she knows that her role model is always in her heart. I know you have been hearing that a lot too. Just know that you will heal from this. You heal from this the way you want to heal from this. Don't let anyone tell you how much time you need.
It seems you are still there for your family and they are there for you. Know that she will always be with you. She may be scared in the spiritual world, but you are here in the physical to help guide her where she needs to be. She still has you to help her. But right now, what it sounds like is you need forgiveness. Not only for her, but also for yourself. That is one of the steps you need to do. Forgiveness."
Andy nodded, she knew he was right. She needed to forgive Shey, she also needed to forgive herself. "Father, I have one more confession."
"Go ahead, child."
"The two guys she was with when it happened, I want to hurt them so much. They were the ones that supplied her with everything. I know it won't bring her back, but I just have this rage that I need to release and I just want to take it out on them. I keep having this vision of me just letting my fist meet their faces and I don't care what happens to me. I just want them to feel the pain I am feeling." Andy confessed clenching and unclenching her fist, and tried to control her voice while she was talking.
"I understand the rage. I assume they were arrested?"
Andy nodded, "Yes, they are both in jail awaiting trial. I'm waiting for the word if I have to be there or not."
"I would visit them, talk to them, again forgiveness. I know you don't want to forgive them now, but down the road you will. One step at a time. You will get through this. You have the support of God and Jesus, on your side. We will be here if and when you need us. Is there anything else you wish to say?" The Priest asked gently.
Andy shook her head, "Thank you Father for all your help. I don't need to say any Our Fathers or Hail Marys, do I?"
The Priest smiled, "No, even though we suggest, I feel you should say any prayer you want. Even if you just want to talk to God. In the name of The Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit. I will say a prayer and light a candle for you."
Andy did the motions she was taught when she was a child. She closed her eyes and nodded, "Thank you for listening Father. Thank you for your kind words."
"You are welcome. You go now and heal."
Andy stood up and opened the curtain. She walked out of the confessional and made a beeline for the exit. Once she was outside of the Church she checked her phone. She had one more stop she had to make before she went home. Tomorrow she would see Jimmy and Diana. But right now she needed to see someone else.
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Nina opened up her front door of the small house she was renting for the month. She already knew Andy would come see her right when she got settled. She got in late last night and told Andy to come by around the afternoon. Andy told her she wanted to go to Church first and she would be by. Nina sent her friend the address and a few hours later Andy was pulling into the driveway
Nina already heard Andy calling out. She could feel the pain, and the guilt her friend was feeling. She hated this for her, but it was all part of the process. The thing about it is that Andy needed to let go of the guilt she has. She knew it was easier said than done, but in time her friend would heal from this. It would take a long time, but she knew down the road Andy would be okay.
Andy walked up to her friend and Nina welcomed her with open arms, "Oh honey, I know."
"I'm sorry for pulling you away, but I didn't know who else to turn to, and you met her a couple of times." Andy said, trying to control her emotions.
Nina rubbed her back, "I know honey, I'm here. Let's get inside and I'll make some hot chocolate." They let go of each other and once they were both inside Nina closed the front door. She watched as Andy took off her zip up hoodie and shoes. She led the way to the kitchen. She could feel the heartache Andy was going through.
Andy sat at the small table as Nina was working her way around the kitchen to make them so hot chocolate. They were in a comfortable silence then Andy decided to break it.
"She's so scared Nina, she's attached to me. It's so heavy right now." Andy said, putting her head in her hands as her elbows rested on the table.
"I know sweetheart. She sought you out, she knew you would help her."
"That would explain the sleep paralysis I had the first couple of nights. I knew it was her, while it was happening I saw her face, she was crying, scared. I told her it was going to be okay, but she had to let me go so I could sleep. I gave her my energy so she could find her mom." Andy explained.
Nina let out a sigh, "She's not there yet. She's trying to check on everyone right now, but she's mostly concerned about you. She feels like she disappointed you." She explained finishing up the mugs of hot chocolate. Once she stirred them up she came over to the table. She placed a mug in front of Andy and she watched her friend sit up. Andy gave her a small smile as Nina sat down across from her.
"I would channel for you, but her death is still fresh and she hasn't had time to come to terms with it yet. She's telling me she doesn't know what to do. I also don't want you to get that attachment." Nina spoke truthfully.
Andy shook her head, "She's already attached. I need her to go for a while. I know her dad misses her, her brother, her sister, her Aunt, her grandparents. She has people she needs to see, but she won't leave me. I think I know why. But she's too scared. I keep telling her it's going to be okay, but she just won't leave."
Nina nodded, "She didn't mean for any of this to happen. She knew she was in the wrong. She was having fun, and it got out of her control. She was with two people?"
Andy nodded, "Yeah, her fucking boyfriend and another friend. Her boyfriend was the supplier."
Nina felt rage all of sudden and looked at Andy and saw her eye flash a hint of red. "Andrea sweetheart, calm down." She reached across the table and touched Andy's hand.
"I'm sorry, I just-"
"I know sweetheart, but you have to understand it was her choice to go down this road. You did all you could, honey, you kept your promise."
Andy's head shot up and looked at Nina, "I never told you about that. How did you know that?"
Nina smiled, "Her mom came to me yesterday. Her mom doesn't blame you at all. You were her rock, her one thing that kept her good."
"Then, why did she get caught up in all this?" Andy asked, sitting back in her chair defeated. Nina sighed and looked at Andy's untouched hot chocolate. If Andy didn't touch her hot chocolate, it's because she was really hurting. Nina knew that from knowing Andy for a long time. There was only one time Andy didn't touch her hot chocolate and that was when her Grandmother passed away.
"She thought it was cool and fun at first, but when you cut her out that's when she got into deep. Oh Andy! Please don't go after them. That's the last thing you need to do right now."
Andy's head shot up again, "I know! But I can't help but feel like they deserve to get hurt somehow. Her life was in THEIR HANDS!" Andy shouted hitting the table with her fist spilling her hot chocolate on the table and on her jeans.
"I'm sorry, I'm so sorry." She kept saying to Nina. Nina shook her head and stood up, "It's okay. I'll clean this up. There's some pants in my room upstairs, go ahead and go change. I'll take care of this."
Andy just nodded and before she was about to apologize again Nina gave her a look and pointed towards the stairs. Andy nodded and stood up. She made her way to the stairs. Nina watched her dearest friend walk very slowly and with her head down. It was the first time she saw Andy look defeated. This was something Andy couldn't fix and it was killing her. Nina needed to let Andy know that it's okay to not fix everything. Not everything needs to be fixed.
She cleaned up the spilled hot chocolate. Luckily there wasn't a tablecloth on the table otherwise it would have been harder to clean. Once she got everything cleaned up, she replaced Andy's hot chocolate with a bottle of water. She took this moment to check her phone. She saw a text from Lynn and read it. She was just checking in to see if Andy saw her yet. Nina wasted no time and sent a reply back to let Lynn know that Andy was with her. She wasn't sure how long Andy would be with her, but she was safe.
Lynn responded back quickly telling her thank you, and also inviting her over for dinner since she was here by herself. Nina read the text and smiled, she accepted the invitation and would have Andy drive her over. Andy's dad was going to make Andy's comfort meal. The one meal Andy could never say no to. Nina also did inform Lynn that Andy spilled hot chocolate on herself and was changing into some spare pants. She was always honest with Lynn. She knew Lynn was good for Andy the moment they met. She felt their connection and just knew that they were meant to be. She was so happy for Andy for finding Lynn. They both needed each other. Andy didn't know it but she needed someone like Lynn in her life. Someone that truly loved her and that was Lynn.
Nina told Lynn they would leave within the hour. There were still some things Andy needed to talk about.
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"So when are we meeting Jimmy?" Ethan asked, sitting back in his chair. Wendy and Ethan were on the deck out back at Wendy and Andy's parents house.
Wendy shook her head, "He just wants to see Andy, he doesn't want to see us." She told him with a shake of her head.
"Makes sense. After all these years this is the first time he contacted her. They were never friends on social media or anything."
Wendy nodded, "It is weird, but here's the thing. Shey's parents love Andy. Andy hated doing this but when Shey ran away, she turned Shey in. She just knew what was best. If there's one thing Vicki did right it was helping Andy turn in Shey. Even Shey's step mom loves Andy. They all thought Shey would end up with Andy. With the way Andy and Shey were throughout the years."
"I think we all thought they were going to end up together. Andy would drop everything for her. Even when she was with Nicole she dropped everything for Shey. But then Lynn happened." Ethan said.
"But, Andy was still there for Shey, getting her a job, and career. She may not have dropped everything, but she was still there. How's Mila? I know she looked up to Shey." Wendy asked with concern.
"She's taking it hard. Shey was her idol. She kept asking why Shey wasn't coming around the last few months and we just kept telling her she was on assignment. We didn't have the heart to tell her the truth until a few days ago when Andy told everyone." Ethan explained.
"Her and Andy were upstairs for a while. This really hurts Ethan. I don't know if Andy is going to be able to heal from this."
Ethan took Wendy's hand in his, "I know. This one does cut deep. But Andy's always been there for us. It's time for us to be there for her."
Wendy nodded, she knew he was right. This was going to take a long time to come back from. But she had to be there for her sister, now more than ever. This year was a rollercoaster for her sister. It was time for her to be the strong one.
Lynn came out of the house and smiled at the both of them. She sat down next to Ethan and he took her hand in his, "How are you holding up?"
Lynn nodded, "I'm okay. David and Kara are gonna try to come down. They're just not sure but they send their love. But thank you guys for coming so quickly."
They nodded and both said of course. They knew they needed to be down earlier than everyone else. Wendy told her that she was also here for her too. She would need help with the girls, and Andy would be a little busy helping plan everything with Jimmy. Lynn thanked them both again. She was just glad that Andy and her had support all around.
"She's with Nina right now. I knew she would call her." Lynn told them.
"Makes sense. Nina met Shey when they had assignments in Okinawa. Where did Andy go this morning?" Ethan asked.
"She got the girls ready. She put on a smile, made breakfast for all of us. Kevin and Susan woke up. Andy said she needed to clear her head, she mentioned Nina. I think she might have gone to church before she went and saw Nina." Lynn explained.
Wendy nodded, "Andy still has her Faith in God still as well as Freyja and Odin. But when it comes to death it's mostly God. She might have gone to confession."
Kevin opened the back door and told them that Andy and Nina just walked through the front door. Well, Nina did, Andy was in the front yard on the phone. They all nodded and stood up. Ethan let go of Wendy's hand but kept holding on to Lynn's. He knew she needed it. Lynn took her other hand and placed one the other side of his as they walked into the house.
"It'll be okay." He whispered as they walked in and she just nodded.
Mila was watching Andy pace back and forth on the front yard from the front door. She thought back to the day Andy made the announcement. She went upstairs after Mr. Kyle talked to her. She saw Andy sitting on her bed in the Master bedroom sobbing. All Mila did was rush into the room and wrapped her arms around her adopted Mom. They cried together. Andy told Mila this was harder than she thought and she didn't know how strong she could be.
Mila nodded and told her that she didn't have to be strong. That she didn't have to be strong all the time. She knew this was going to be hard and she just wanted to let her know that no matter what she was going to be there for her.
She was brought out of her thoughts when she saw Andy walking up to her with a sad smile. Andy opened the front door, "Wanna talk for a second?"
Mila nodded and walked out onto the porch. They each took a rocking chair and faced them towards each other. They sat down and Andy looked at her daughter and could tell she had been crying.
"I wanna ask how are you holding up, but I figured you're feeling as hurt as I am." Andy said.
Mila nodded, "Yeah. I don't know if I'm hurting because I lost someone I looked up to, or if I'm hurting because you're hurting for losing your best friend. Either way this hurts Mama."
Andy could see fresh tears coming to her eyes and she also felt her own tears. She moved her rocking chair closer to Mila's and took her hand in her own. "It's okay to hurt for you. I've been through losing family members, and friends. It hurt, but this is the first time I lost a best friend. We both loved her and we both miss her. I didn't want to tell you the truth about her for the last few months. I was scared if you found out you would have ended up down the same path. Especially after what you been through before you came into our lives. You had a hard past and we just wanted to give you a better future. What Shey was doing wasn't healthy and was not okay for you to be around. I could have handled it if she let you smoke weed, but when she got into heavier drugs, I just couldn't have you around that."
Mila nodded, squeezing Andy's hand gently and using her other hand to wipe away her tears. "I understand you did what you did to protect me. I really appreciate it. I'm not angry with you for cutting her out of my life. I figured something was wrong when Shey told me she needed a job quick because the agency wasn't paying her right. I told her maybe to ask you, but she told me that you told her all the jobs were taken."
Andy looked at her daughter in confusion, "When was this?"
"After little B was born. I just knew something wasn't right when she said all the jobs were taken. I remember you and Mom talking about how you had two or three so you could spend time with us. You said there were about fifteen other jobs you had to give up." Mila explained.
"Do you wanna know how she found?" Andy asked and Mila nodded.
Lynn watched as Andy and Mila were talking on the front porch. She couldn't hear what was said but she loved seeing the two of them together. It warmed her heart that they had a strong bond.
"Lynn, did Andy tell you how Shey was found?" Ethan asked. She turned her head to look at him and she gave him a small shake of her head. He nodded and gestured for her to sit down on the couch. They both did and he let out a sigh.
He began to tell her about the night Shey lost her life.
"She was with her boyfriend and another friend. I guess they were here in Virginia, some place she was familiar with. She told her grandparents she was visiting for a while. She was in her boyfriend's van, outside of her grandparents house." Ethan cleared his throat trying not to break.
"They were getting high and mixing together something to shoot up. Her grandfather woke up to sirens outside of the house. Shey put too much in her system and she didn't wake up. The two tried to wake her up, but she just didn't. They panicked and called 911. Shey's grandparents called her dad, then, her sister, her brother, her brother called Keith, and you know the rest."
Ethan and Lynn heard a loud sob and looked outside. They watched as Mila flung herself at Andy. They both stood up and rushed outside. Ethan was about to go to them but Lynn put a hand on his arm and shook her head. He nodded and they both went back inside. She knew they needed time.
"Is Mila okay?" Nina asked. Lynn shook her head. Nina nodded and took Lynn's hand, "Come one love, you need some strength."
**************************************************************************************
"Okay so after my piece, Andy you sing and say your speech. After that anyone who wants to say something can. We end the service and we all gather at the lodge and people can start to leave whenever they want." Jimmy said with a sigh sitting back in his chair.
Andy nodded looking at the older man in front of her. It's been almost ten years since she last saw him. He had thinning blonde hair and his tired blue eyes, and his wrinkles were more defined. She could tell his daughter's death was taking its toll on him.
"I'm so sorry Jimmy." Andy bursted out. "I'm so sorry I wasn't there. I'm so sorry I wasn't good enough. I'm so sorry I couldn't stop her." Andy started to sob and Jimmy stood up from his chair and went over to Andy. He wrapped his arms around her and held her close.
"It's okay honey. We all did the best we could. We all loved her. We all did what we could. You were her best friend. Her last good constant in her life. You kept her safe. You kept her close. You kept her clean for as long as you could. This isn't your fault. Don't think it's your fault." He said in a soothing voice.
"I just can't get over my guilt. I told her I didn't want to see her until she got clean. I couldn't have her near my family, I couldn't be around her anymore. I tried so hard."
Jimmy held Andy closer. He may have had his differences with Shey, but the one thing he agreed on with her was that Andy was the best
thing to happen to Shey. The two stayed in their embrace for a few minutes longer and they finally let go of each other. His wife Diana came into the dining room with a box of tissues. They each took one and dried their eyes.
She too embraced Andy, "We are so grateful for all that you have done for our daughter. Don't ever think you didn't do enough. You did everything you could sweetheart."
Andy nodded, "Thank you. I just wish she was still here." The two women let go of each other and the blonde-haired woman put a gentle hand on Andy's cheek and nodded.
Jimmy cleared his throat, "Shey's last commission covers more than just the funeral. It also covers anything for Thomas."
Andy looked at Shey's dad and stepmom with confusion, "Wait what?"
"Kyle sent the check. Here's the receipt." He said handing the piece of paper to Andy.
She looked at the number and smiled, "That sly son of a bitch. I knew he had something up his sleeve." She put the piece of paper down, "I remember bringing Shey to the agency to meet Kyle for the first time. She mentioned Thomas, but never mentioned that he was her brother. Kyle assumed he was her son. I went to correct him and he said that he didn't matter. The way Shey talked about Thomas, he could tell that she loved him with all her heart."
Jimmy put his arm around Diana. They all agreed Shey loved her little brother more than anything. They continued to make plans for the service. It was going to be a hard day for everyone.
Andy still had to make some more rounds that day. There was a lot to get done before the service. She spent a few more hours with Jimmy and Diana, then she was off to see Shane and Krys. They were meeting for lunch and to go over some plans after the service. They may have been Shey’s half siblings but they were all close until a few months ago. Each of them had their own families now, and they were doing great for themselves. They all just wished it wasn't something like this that brought them together again.
Once everything calmed down, Andy needed to spend some time alone away from everything. Before she and her family went back to Boston she wanted to show Lynn and Mila a special place. Hopefully she would be able to do it after the service.
********************************************************************
Andy looked out at everyone and tried to keep herself together. She double checked her guitar and made sure it was tuned. She performed in front of thousands of people but this was different. This was more meaningful, and this was the first time she performed this song. She cleared her throat and started to slowly strum the guitar.
"This was our song for twenty years. We Can Go Anywhere, by Jesse McCartney." She took in a deep breath and began to sing their song
"Slow down
Things have been a little crazy
Right now
It's time to get away
You can find out
What it is you're really after
Time is on our side
C'mon we're leaving everything behind
She started having flashbacks of her and Shey driving in her car. Listening to music, talking, laughing. Having the best times of their lives.
You know that sun is shining
We'll keep driving
Doesn't matter where
'Cause we got that open highway
Leading our way
As long as you are there
We can go anywhere
Lynn had her arm around Mila. She held her daughter close. She kissed the top of her head and pulled her in closer. This was not only hard for Andy but also Mila. Kevin and Susan said they would watch the twins so the three of them could have this day to themselves.
Breakdown
All the pressure that surrounds you
Allow it all to fade away
We can move on
Looking in the rear view mirror
Wave goodbye
C'mon we're leaving everything behind
Ethan and Wendy were holding each other's hands wiping their tears away. Ethan felt a hand on his shoulder he didn't have to look. He knew it was his fiance sitting behind him. Along with Brian and Angel. Andy, Wendy, and Ethan were so grateful they could make this trip.
You know that sun is shining
We'll keep driving
Doesn't matter where
'Cause we got that open highway
Leading our way
As long as you are there
We can go anywhere
Jimmy, Diana, Krys, and Shane were all sitting in the front pew letting their tears fall. They each said their piece about Shey. At the last minute they told Andy she would go after anyone else who wanted to say something for Shey. She agreed, and they were all thinking that this was the best decision. Andy was family to them, for twenty years Andy took care of Shey when they couldn't. So they felt it right for her to close the service today.
We're gonna be so far gone
Some place we ain't never been befor
Find a new favorite song
We'll end up right where we belong
Nina was sitting next to Lynn. They had a long talk the other night and Nina had to remind Lynn that she needed to take some time to herself as well. To not be scared to let Andy know she needed some space as well. Lynn knew she was right so after dinner she told Andy she needed to get away for a while. She thought Andy would start a fight, but Andy smiled and gave her a small kiss. She told Lynn to take her time and that if she needed her she would be right there. Lynn was so surprised at Andy's reaction. She thought she would lash out, but no, Andy was so calm and understanding. It made her love her wife even more.
You know that sun is shining
We'll keep driving
Doesn't matter wher
'Cause we got that open highway
Leading our way
As long as you are there
We can go anywhere
Andy felt a rush of energy and she just knew. She looked down the aisle and saw her best friend. Blue hair, jeans, pair of sneakers, oversized hoodie, hint of red in her hair. Andy just smiled and let her tears flow. She was the only one that could see her. Or so she thought. Out of the corner of her eye she saw Nina turn and look down the aisle. She gave Shey a small nod and smile.
Come with me everything will be alright
Movin' on 'cause we're leaving it all behind"
(Song and Lyrics by Jesse McCartney)
This was the first time Andy wasn't expecting an applause. She put the guitar on its stand and took the steps up to the small podium. She made note cards but she knew it wasn't going to be possible. She was just going to speak from the heart.
She looked out into the crowd and saw everyone but one person. Luckily Melissa worked it out with Jimmy to live stream the service. He didn't want Keith there. The two had a complicated history, but Andy gave Keith the link so he could watch it. It meant a lot to Keith that he would be part of this.
"Shey came into my life when I was about nineteen going on twenty. At the time she told me that she was seventeen. It wasn't until a few weeks later she confessed that she was thirteen. Of course I didn't like the fact that she was that young and dating my best friend. I wanted no part of it. Until Jess asked me to make sure she would be okay while she was at work.
So one day I told Shey to get in my car, I was going to kidnap her for the day. We drove out to Pungo and I showed her this big house that was being built. In that moment the song started to play. In that moment I knew she was going to be a part of my life. In that moment something between us blossomed. Over the twenty years we kept in contact. Every now and then we would lose each other due to life. But we always seemed to come back around.
I must confess, there was a time where I did want to be with her. For a long time I thought she was the one I was going to marry and start a family with. I dropped everything for her. But I started to grow up, I started to fall in love with someone else," She paused and looked at Lynn with a small smile.
"But I still wanted Shey to be part of my life. I was so proud of her. I believed in her. She loved each and everyone of us with all her heart. She wanted to do better every single day. She had her hard times. I know we all feel guilty for not reaching back out to her. We all have that what if question in our heads. If there's one thing I learned this past week is that I need to forgive.
I forgive you, Shey. I forgive you for leaving us. I forgive you for not saying goodbye. I forgive you for leaving me. I just have to work on forgiving myself for not being there when you needed me the most. But just know that I will be here now. I know you're going to watch over us as we did you. Shey was this light in my life that I didn't know I needed. I didn't know I was a light in hers until about a week ago. Shey, I will always be your light. I will always be your best friend.
I love you. I miss you. I hope you'll be able to find your peace. I know your mom is waiting for you. It's going to take time, but we will be okay. I promise. You can rest easy now. There's no more pain, there's no more worry, there's no more suffering. You can rest and we will be here. Goodbye Shey. I'll see you again soon."
Andy wiped her face with her hands and stepped away from the podium. Lynn and Mila stood up and rushed to her. Mila let out a sob and Andy held her close. Lynn had each arm around her girls. Slowly everyone started to get up to head to the reception.
Andy thought burying her Grandfather was hard, but this was harder than she could ever imagine. The three let go of each other. Andy said she needed a few more minutes and she would met them in the lodge. The two nodded and started to make their way down the aisle. Andy sat on the steps and watched her wife and daughter walk out of the door.
"You can come out now." Andy said with a small smile. She felt a small chill on her right arm. In her mind she could see Shey.
"You need to let me go for a while. Your dad really needs you." Andy said.
"I'm. Scared." Andy heard the whisper.
"I know love, but you need to let me go. I'll be here when you're done checking on everyone."
"Mom. Find."
"You will, but you need to heal first. Don't worry, I'll be okay. It will take time but you need to let me go."
"Love. You."
"I love you. Now go." Andy felt the chill leave and she nodded. "Goodbye."
******************************************************************************************
"So this is the famous Pungo we keep hearing about." Lynn said with a smile as Andy was making a turn at the intersection.
"This is part of it." Andy told her turning into the gas station.
"Are we reliving a memory Mama?" Mila asked as Andy parked the car.
"We are kiddo. A twenty year old memory. Now come on, I know you want some beef jerky." Andy said with a smile, turning off the car and taking off her seatbelt.
"I swear you can read minds." Mila said, getting out of the car. She rushed into the store with Andy and Lynn behind her hand in hand.
"Are you going to be okay?" Lynn asked as they entered the store.
"I will be in time. I never thanked you for being so amazing in all of this."
"She meant a lot to you, and I know you're in pain. You've also been amazing to me. Letting me be able to focus on myself."
Andy looked at her wife, "Of course baby. I may be going through this, but I also want to consider your feelings. We're a team and we support each other. Anytime you need to talk, or to just get away for a while don't be scared to tell me. I completely understand. I could tell you were a little surprised the other night when I told you that it was okay for you to go." She finished as she opened the drink cooler and grabbed two bottles of water and a bottle of caffeine free soda for Mila.
"I really was. I had a bad experience with my ex. She was going through something, and when I needed to just clear my head she made everything about her." Lynn explained.
They walked up to the counter with Mila. Andy paid for their drinks and snacks. They all said thank you to the clerk and they left the store. Andy unlocked the car and Mila got in. She gave Mila the keys to turn on the car because she had to talk to Lynn.
Andy turned to Lynn and took her hands in hers, "Look, things get overwhelming and there's going to be times where both of us are going through something. Yes we're going to want each other there at our side, but at the same time it's okay for us to not be strong. We don't always have to be the rock all the time. We're human. It took you to teach me that it was okay to be vulnerable for a while. I know Shey's passing is going to take me a long to heal. But I have you, Mila, Judy, and Crystal to keep me going every single day. I would not have made it this past week if it weren't for all of you. So thank you. I love you. You're my everything." Andy gently touched Lynn's cheek and wiped away her stray tear.
"Don't be afraid to tell me you need some time to yourself if you need it. I will understand."
Lynn nodded, "I swear I don't deserve you." She said softly.
"Every time we say something like this we keep going on and on. We can continue this later. I promise." Andy said with a smile. She and Lynn kissed softly then they were brought back to reality by Mila.
"I love you both and I'm glad you're my parents, but I really wanna be part of this new memory."
The two women laughed and let go of each other. Andy went to the passenger side and opened up the car door for her wife just like she's always done since they met. Once Lynn was settled she rushed over to the driver side and got in.
When all three of them were settled Andy turned out of the gas station and started to drive down the familiar road. She turned on the music and made sure it was the song that played twenty years ago.
"Okay kiddo, look to your left. It's coming up." Andy said with a smile. Within a few moments a huge gray house appeared. Andy looked in her rear view mirror and turned on her turned signal. She pulled over to the side of the road and parked. She turned on her hazards and smiled. She rolled down the windows, and they all got out.
"Mama, this house is huge!" Mila said with an excited voice.
"When I took Shey to see this house, it was still being built. I never took her back here to see it completed." Andy confessed.
"I like how there's like this bridge hallway that connects. It's like it's connecting two houses." Lynn said, pointing out the small walkway.
"There's also a guest house in the back. It's like a full on house. Not just a small house. If you look through this opening you can see it."
"Can you imagine living here? All the space and just being able to run around and slide across the floors." Lynn said with a smile.
Andy kissed the top of her head, "It would be pretty neat. Wanna try it out?"
Lynn and Mila looked at Andy as if she grew another head.
"What are you talking about?" Lynn asked.
"I always wanted a place here in Virginia. This was my home for a long time. Also I have a lot of friends that come and go. We could rent out the guest house, or even just have it as its own property. Plus, everything has been going so well. PVRIS signing to a new label. My album took off along with my galleries. My prints are flying off the shelves. I already talked to the bank. We have more than enough. The town home in Boston is ours. I talked to my Uncle Chris, Ethan and I just signed over the house to Brandon.
This doesn't have to be home, but it could be a place for us to have while we're down here. Instead of always putting money into places to rent for a week. Or staying at my parents place. Our friends could have their own rooms. There's plenty of space to have Thanksgiving." Andy looked at Mila, then back at Lynn.
Andy reached into her pocket and pulled out a set of keys.
"It's ours. I paid in full. This is twenty years of my savings. Twenty years of bonuses, twenty years of me keeping another promise. So what do you say?" Andy looked at them with hopeful eyes.
Lynn and Mila looked at each other, then back at Andy. They were too stunned to speak.
"I say you go for it." A voice said. They all turned to see who it was, and it was the last person they wanted to see.
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