(brylee's outfit for this part of the chapter)

(bennett's outfit for this part of the chapter)

Bennett and his dad had been spending more time with Briar, his mom the past month. She had been trying to prove to them she wasn't going to leave, and they were willing to give her a chance. And, Bennett had been getting closer to her. He found out they had some things in common like favorite music type, and even a couple favorite books. He was enjoying getting to know her, and they had been hanging out a lot, getting to know each other. Briar had even moved into the apartment across the hall from Bennett and his dad's place, so she was close by. It was a big step, but they all felt like it was the right move.

She and Bennett had gotten close, and were hanging out a lot. She was also getting to know Brylee, who she had grown quite fond of. She liked her, and she seemed good for her son. And, she was happy for him that he had someone like her. Briar had been reconnecting with Eric too. It took Eric longer to warm up to her again which was surprising since she thought Bennett would be more hesitant. But, once Eric warmed up to her, it was like no time had passed. They picked up right where they left off, and it was almost like old times, minus the dating.

Eric and Briar hadn't really discussed where they stood or if they wanted to get back together, and they were both content with that. They were just trying to get their family back, and trying to rebuild their friendship and trust. And, things were going well.

****

Brylee was currently curled up in bed, binge-watching the show called Red Planet Diaries. It was one of her favorite shows. And there was a big finale coming up so she was rewatching the episodes to refresh her memory.

It was a quiet and relaxing afternoon, and she had nothing planned for the day. So, she was enjoying it while she could. "Hey, baby." She jumped at the sudden voice and paused the show before looking over at the window. The window had been unlocked, but she didn't hear Bennett come in.

She turns and smiles at him, pausing her show. "Hey, cuddle bear."

"Babe, we talked about this." He chuckled and plopped down onto the bed, resting his head in her lap.

"Right, no ridiculous nicknames." She laughed, setting her laptop aside so he could scoot closer to her and lay his head fully on her lap instead of just her leg. She giggled when his hand grabbed hers and placed it on hid head, a silent gesture telling her to run her fingers through his hair. Her heart fluttered while she smiled and did just that, tangling her fingers in his messy locks, her nails gently scraping against his scalp, causing him to hum contently.

"Much better." He murmured, his eyes closed.

"What are you doing here, babe? Of course, you're always welcome here," She questions, playing with his hair. "But I thought you were spending time with your mom?"

"I was, but she had to go to work. And I wanted to see my girl." He mumbled, turning to her bury his face in her stomach. Her shirt had ridden up so he had his face pressed against her bare skin, and he nuzzled her gently.

"Your girl?" She repeated, her face turning red. She had gotten used to him calling her his girlfriend, and it still made her heart flutter, but hearing him say she was his girl was new. And it did something to her, making her feel like her insides were mush.

"Mhm." He hummed, his arm wrapping around her and pulling her cloesr.

"Well, your girl is a bit busy. I'm rewatching the Red Planet Diaries, so I can catch up before the finale." She told him, but she still continued playing with his hair, and ran her free hand over his back.

"Hmm." She felt him smile against her stomach, which caused her to giggle. "That's fine. I'll just stay here."

"In that case, you can make yourself useful and press play since you won't let me stop." She giggled, and he reluctantly reached over and pressed play, and the theme song of her favorite show starts. He then turned back to her, wrapping his arms around her and closing his eyes as he rested his head against her stomach.

"Comfortable, snookums?" She teased, giggling when he lightly swatted her leg.

"Shh. Pay attention, the show is starting." He muttered, making her roll her eyes.

"Bossy, aren't we?" She said, laughing a little. She didn't mind though. It was cute. She turned her attention to the screen, her fingers still running through his hair. She smiled when he nuzzled her gently, pressing his lips against her bare stomach, causing her face to heat up and her heart to flutter.

They were both silent, just enjoying each other's presence. Well, Brylee was trying to enjoy the show, but his constant kisses and gentle nuzzles were distracting her. Not to mention the fact that his hand was slowly slipping under her shirt, and was rubbing her back, his fingers tracing shapes on her back.

She was leaned against the headboard, her laptop propped on a pillow across from her. Bennett was curled up with his head in her lap, his arms around her. Her hand was still in his hair, and she was running her fingers through his hair. Her other hand was resting on his shoulder, her fingers brushing against the exposed skin from his shirt riding up when he moved. She tried focusing on the show, but his actions were distracting her. But, she loved having him close like this. She didn't think she would ever get used to this. He had her heart, and it was his. 

"So, what's wrong? Why did you come over?" Brylee spoke up curiously. 

"I just missed you. Is that a crime?" He pouted, his arms wrapping around her tightly.

"No, not at all." She chuckles, and runs her fingers through his hair. "But, we did see each other at school."

"I know, but I still missed you." He mumbled, burying his face in her stomach.

"So, you missed me enough to interrupt my rewatch of Red Planet Diaries?" She complained, although she was happy to see him.

"Yep. I'm sorry, baby." He apologizes, looking up to give her puppy dog eyes. "I love you." He knew she couldn't resist the puppy dog eyes, and he grinned when she huffed.

"You're lucky you're cute." She grumbles, although a small smile played on her lips and butterflies were going wild in her stomach. "I love you too."

"Good." He smiles and leans up, giving her a quick peck. "Now, what episode are we on?"

"No idea," She admits with a sheepish expression. "I know I'm like almost half way done, but I wasn't paying attention to the numbers."

"Alright, let's go back to the first one and restart." He suggested, reaching for the laptop.

"Bennett, I'm not watching the whole season again just because you came over and distracted me." She laughed.

"Aww, please? We'll cuddle and you can give me a play by play." He said, giving her a grin. He never seen the show before despite how many times she tried getting him to watch it, but now he was interested.

"Fine." She sighed, pretending to be annoyed, but she couldn't keep the smile off her face. She had to admit she was really happy and excited he finally wanted to watch it with her. She loved the show, and had a feeling he would too.

Bennett grinned, and pulled the laptop into his lap. He started the first episode, and set it aside. He laid back down, his head resting on her lap. He wrapped his arms around her waist, his hands resting on her hips. Brylee smiled and began playing with his hair again. She didn't mind restarting the show, and she was actually excited for him to watch it. She just hoped he liked it. They were both silent as they watched, but they would occasionally whisper little comments about what was happening. Bennett would ask questions, and Brylee would try to answer them without giving anything away. Brylee thought this was the perfect way to spend the weekend.

****

(brylee's outfit for this part of the chapter)

(bennett's outfit for this part of the chapter)

"Get out." Brylee looks up from the laptop to the door to see her mom staring at them with annoyance. She looks at her mom with surprise. Katy sighs heavily, running her hand over her face. "You two have been cooped up in here for three days. You should go outside. Plus it's Monday morning, you got school in a few minutes. I know you guys are seniors, but that doesn't mean you can skip."

Brylee blinks and looks over at Bennett, who's asleep, his head in her lap and his arms around her. His lips are parted and his breath is coming out in soft puffs, and his hair is sticking up in different directions. She hadn't realized it's been three days already. Time seemed to fly by whenever she was with Bennett. "It's Monday?" She repeats, her eyes widening as she realized what she said. She glances at the clock, and her heart sinks. "Crap, it's already 7:30."

Her mom sighs and shakes her head. "Come on, kiddo. Time to get up. I'm not taking you to school. If you're late, that's your problem." She waved her hand and walked down the hallway.

Brylee quickly got out of bed, accidentally shoving Bennett on the floor. He lands with a thud and let out a groan. "Sorry, babe." She apologized, stepping over him to head to her closet. "It's Monday."

"No, it's not. It's Saturday." He mumbles, sitting up and rubbing his head. "It can't be Monday." He glances at the clock, furrowing his eyebrows at seeing the time. He grabs his phone, and his eyes widen when he sees the time. "Dang it, it is Monday." He complains as he got up, rubbing the back of his head. "Really would've preferred not being woken up by being pushed on the floor."

"You'll live." She chuckles, walking back out of the closet. She's dressed in a red, long sleeved crop top and black leggings. "Get dressed, we gotta go." She told him, heading to her dresser to grab a scrunchie.

"Yes, ma'am." He mock saluted, forcing himself to stand and walked over to the drawer he had here. Since he often stayed over a lot, he kept some clothes and other necessities here. She did the same at his place.

"I'll meet you in the kitchen." She said, grabbing her backpack and phone.

"No good morning kiss?" Bennett pouted as he switched shirts.

"Good morning, and see you in the kitchen." She blew a kiss at him, laughing a little at seeing his upset expression while she walked out.

"That's not what I meant." He called after her with a huff and continued getting dressed. Brylee stopped by the bathroom to do her makeup and brush her teeth before heading to the kitchen. The smell of fresh coffee filled the air, and she was greeted with a warm smile from her mom.

"Morning, sweetheart." She kisses the side of her head as she passed. "I made some coffee if you want some."

"Yes, please." She grabbed a mug and poured herself some, adding cream and sugar. She sat at the counter, and took a sip of her coffee, sighing contently.

"You better hurry, kiddo. It's almost eight." Shawn chimed in as he entered the room.

"I know. I didn't mean to sleep in so late." Brylee groaned, resting her head against the counter. She didn't understand how she lost track of the days. That's never happened before. Maybe binge watching that show wasn't a good idea.

"Did you really binge watch Red Planet Diaries the whole weekend?" Shawn asked with a small chuckle, looking amused while he grabbed himself a mug to get coffee.

"Yeah, we did." She answered with a small laugh.

"We?" Shawn repeated, raising his eyebrows.

"Bennett and I. He stayed over this weekend." She explained, taking another sip of her coffee.

Shawn glances at Katy with raised eyebrows, his protective instincts kicking in. "Did you know that?" He questioned her. He wasn't sure he was comfortable with that. He trusted Bennett, but he still had a few concerns. Bennett was a nice guy, and he was good to Brylee. He didn't have to worry, but he still couldn't help it. He had never had to deal with this situation before, so he wasn't sure how to handle it. He didn't know anything about having kids, but he suddenly felt protective. He didn't like the thought of some boy spending the night, especially with his teenage daughter. He wasn't ready for this. Was this how all parents felt? It was a bit overwhelming.

"Yes. He showed up Friday after I got home, and didn't leave until now." Katy answered, rolling her eyes. 

"You're okay with that?" He asked with surprise. He thought she would be upset or worried about her being with a boy overnight. She didn't seem phased. Was he the only one worried about this? Was he overreacting?

Katy shrugs. "I mean, yeah. He's a good kid, and he's the best boyfriend she's had. As long as they're careful and respectful, I'm fine with it." She answers. She notices the look on Shawn's face, and smiles. "It's okay. There's nothing to worry about."

He frowns, and crosses his arms. "Well, I don't like it. It's weird. I never had to worry about this before. I wasn't prepared for this." He complained. Katy just laughed.

"What's so funny?" He asked, looking offended.

"You, babe. It's just cute that you're worried." She smiles, and pats his cheek. "Don't worry, it's perfectly normal."

"You guys are really okay with him staying?" Brylee asked with surprise, a little shocked that her parents weren't upset. She had been preparing herself for a lecture.

"Sure, I don't see why not. You guys have been dating for months now. He's a nice guy. And he makes you happy." Katy said with a shrug.

"Aww, thanks, mama." She said, standing up. She walked over to her mom and hugged her, and smiled when her mom hugged her back.

"Of course, baby." Katy smiled, holding her daughter close.

"Hey, where's my hug?" Shawn asked with a pout on his face.

Brylee laughs, but pulls away from her mom and walks over to her stepdad, wrapping her arms around his middle. "I love you, dad."

Shawn's face softens, and he wraps his arm around her. "I love you too, kid." He murmured. He doesn't think he will ever get used to being a dad. When he married Katy, he gained not only a beautiful, amazing wife, but two kids that he loves. Brylee looked up at him and grinned as she pulled away. It was weird having a dad now, but she was glad her mom found Shawn. He was the best.

"Is that coffee I smell?" Bennett's voice interrupted them, and he entered the kitchen.

"There's a cup ready for you, Bennett." Katy smiled, nodding to the cup on the counter by the coffee.

"Thanks, mom, you're the best." He grinned at her, kissing her cheek when he walked past her.

"You're welcome, sweetheart." Katy chuckled, patting his arm.

Brylee smiles as she watches them, and then turned her attention back to her coffee. She was glad Bennett and her mom got along so well. She didn't think she could date someone her parents hated, especially her mom. But, Bennett was perfect.

Brylee smiled when Bennett's hand landed on her back as he leaned against the counter next to her. He leans over to kiss the side of her head before taking a sip of coffee. "So, we ready to go?"

"I guess." She sighs, taking another drink of her coffee. "You driving?"

"Unless you want to." He replied, shrugging as he drank his coffee. He grabbed some pieces of bacon that was in the center of the kitchen island, and began eating it.

"No, you can." She shook her head, grabbing some bacon as well. She loved bacon, and there was always plenty of it.

"Then we should go." He nodded towards the door, and finished off his coffee.

She nods, and finishes drinking her coffee before going to the sink to put her empty mug in it, taking Bennett's as well to do the same. She continues eating the bacon she held as she grabbed her keys off the counter. "I'll see you guys later. Bye, mom. Bye, dad." She waved at her parents as they left the kitchen, and went to the front door.

"See ya, kiddo." Shawn responded, smiling a little. He moved to stand by Katy, wrapping his arm around her waist while the couple left.

"Have a good day at school, kids. And be careful!" Katy called after them, leaning against Shawn.

"Always." Brylee called back before she closed the door behind her.

"They're good kids." Shawn mused, watching the kids through the window. Bennett had opened the door for Brylee and was waiting for her to get in the car before getting in the driver's side.

"Yeah, they are." Katy nods, smiling fondly. "They're perfect together." She chuckles. "I still can't believe they used to bicker all the time."

"I know." He laughs. "Now, they're disgustingly adorable." He rolled his eyes playfully.

"Oh, please. Like you aren't happy your stepdaughter has a boyfriend." Katy laughed, nudging him.

"Of course I'm happy for her. Still protective of her though." He admits. "If he ever hurts her, he's dead."

"Oh, please. We both know Brylee will kill him before you even have the chance." She chuckles, shaking her head. "Besides, I don't think he'd ever hurt her. He adores her. You can see it in the way he looks at her. He'd do anything for her."

"That's true. They're both crazy about each other." He admits. He watches as they leave, and pulls away from the window. "You have to leave for work yet?"

"Not yet, why?" She asked, glancing at him shyly when he pulled her closer after setting his mug down.

"No reason. Just wanted to spend some time with my wife." He said softly, smiling softly down at her.

"Okay." She blushes, smiling fondly at him and leans into him. "I like the sound of that."

****

Brylee didn't realize she had fallen asleep until the car stopped and she was awoken by Bennett lightly touching her shoulder. She groans and opens her eyes, blinking slowly as she glanced around. "Where are we?"

"At school." He answers, and she can see the amusement in his eyes. "Sleepyhead."

"Shut up." She mutters, yawning and stretching. "I didn't sleep very well. I had a heavy weight on me."

"Sorry, love." He grins, unbuckling his seatbelt. "But don't act like you didn't like it."

"Never said I didn't." She shrugged and unbuckled her seatbelt.

"So, did you really not get much sleep?" He asked, getting out of the car and walking over to her. He felt bad if he really kept her from getting a full night's sleep.

"It's fine." She waves her hand dismissively. "Its also probably 'cause we've been binge watching Red Planet Diaries. That show's pretty addicting." She added with a chuckle.

"Yeah, I agree. I can't believe I hadn't seen it until now." He laughs and wraps his arm around her waist. "I'm glad I finally watched it with you. Now I can see the finale tonight and not be confused."

"Exactly." She leans into him. "What would you have done without me?" She teased.

"Been extremely confused, that's what." He chuckled, and leaned over to kiss her temple.

"Hey, lovebirds!"

The two broke apart and turned to see their friends walking over to them.

"You guys are late." Thor Pointed out with an amused grin.

"Only by a couple minutes." Bennett shrugged.

"Yeah, 'cause you've been busy making out too much to notice." Nikki teased, smirking a little.

"We were binge watching Red Planet Diaries. Benny finally agreed to watch it." Brylee explained, and looked at Bennett with a smile.

"Oh, I love that show." Francesca gushes. "It's so good. I can't wait for the finale. Ooh, we should have a watch party for it at my house." She suggested. Her house was the biggest out of the group, and the parents didn't mind a few teenagers hanging out.

"Sounds good. But, not sure about tonight." Bennett admits. "My aunt wanted me to help out at the bakery."

"I'm recording it." Francesca grins. "We can reschedule to another night so we're all free."

Bennett is relieved. He hadn't planned on working at his aunt's bakery tonight, but he had gotten a text from her before he left the apartment with Brylee about working tonight. He didn't want to miss the season finale, so he was glad Francesca offered the other option.

"Sounds good." He nodded.

"We should head to class. Don't want to be late." Brylee suggested, squeezing Bennett's hand and led him into the school.

They didn't have any classes together this year, which was rare. Normally they had one class together. It was a bit hard for the two to adjust to, but they managed. They saw each other during lunch and breaks between classes. Plus they often walked each other to class. They had a couple shared classes, but not nearly as much as last year.

"Alright. I'll see you after class." He nodded, pressing a quick kiss to her cheek.

"Bye, babe." She squeezed his hand and reluctantly pulled away to go to her class.

She wasn't thrilled to be going to class, and she definitely didn't want to leave him, but they couldn't just ditch school...Again. Here and there they would skip school. They hadn't done that in a while, but they did sometimes. It wasn't often though, and never on a regular basis.

The rest of the day goes by smoothly. The only exciting thing that happened was a pop quiz in history class. Not that Brylee minded. She liked history. It was one of her favorite classes, and she was good at it. Soon it was the end of the day which she was relieved about. She and Bennett went to Topanga's since Bennett had to get to the bakery, and they didn't have time to go to their homes first. They decided to meet up there.

"You sure you're okay with this?" Bennett asks, squeezing her hand gently as they walked into the café. "You don't have to help me if you don't want to. Though Aunt Topanga would appreciate the help."

"Bennett, I told you, I'm fine." She squeezes his hand back, looking up at him. "I wouldn't mind helping."

They enter the bakery, noticing it was already packed. It usually was, but not this early in the day. It was just after three, so people were mostly still at work or school.

"Ah, Brylee. Thank you so much for agreeing to help! I really appreciate it. You too, Bennett. I know this is your night off, but it's just so busy right now." Topanga explained when she spotted them, looking frazzled.

"Of course. I'm happy to help." Brylee smiled at her.

"Anything for family." Bennett assures his aunt, glancing around the bakery. "Where's Riley? Didn't you say you asked her to help out?"

Topanga scowls. "Yeah, but she's not here yet. She told me no for the first time this morning."

Brylee shares a surprised look with Bennett. Riley rarely said no to helping her parents out. She was such a sweet kid.

"Riley saying no to you?" Bennett asks, furrowing his eyebrows. "But you're godzilla." Topanga sends him a look and he shrugs. "What? You are. That's obvious."

"He's not wrong." Brylee sheepishly said. "But don't worry, I'm sure she will show up. But meanwhile, Bennett and I are happy to help."

"Thank you, kids. I appreciate it. Really." Topanga smiled at the teens, thankful to have them here. She then walked away to go deal with some customers as the couple walked to the back to leave their things in the back room and prepare to work.

Brylee technically didn't work here, but on busy days like today, Topanga was willing to pay her a little. She was fine with that, and didn't mind working here. She had watched Bennett work here long enough to learn some things and the things she didn't know, he taught her. Brylee realized his job was a lot harder than it looked. She always teased him for it, but she was beginning to understand how tough it was. She wasn't even doing anything difficult and she was already exhausted. How did Bennett do this for so long?

Though he made it look so easy. He was a pro. He was able to get everything done and still look as calm and collected as he normally did. It amazed her. She envied him for that. The hours ticked by, and the bakery stayed packed. Brylee couldn't remember the last time she had seen the bakery this packed. It was crazy. And Riley still hadn't shown up yet. She couldn't believe it. Was Riley actually not going to show up? She could tell Topanga was getting more stressed, she kept sending more people away and checking the door every chance she got. Brylee felt bad for her. And for the customers that just walked in. So every time Topanga would do that, she would quickly jump in and help get their orders so they wouldn't be upset and leave.

"Gee, mom. It must be tough when you're oldest child lets you down and you don't have any other children to give all of your love. Oh, wait, here's one now. Hi, mommy!" Auggie grinned at her from his place on the counter and put his hands under his chin to give her his puppy dog look.

Topanga's face softens slightly. "Auggie, she's on her way. She'd be very foolish to be anywhere else." She muttered, checking her watch and glancing over at the door.

Auggie continues giving her his puppy dog eyed look, more dramatically than before. Bennett and Brylee notices this and shares an amused expression. "Don't strain yourself too much, Augs." Bennett chuckled at his younger cousin. Brylee had to bite her lip to hold back her laugh while she looked at Auggie. He was always such a funny kid.

She shook her head at him and went back to work along with Bennett. Not before he leaned over to her and pecked her lips when he walked by. She blushed at the sudden kiss, but smiled at him and continued to work.

****

(brylee's outfit for this part of the chapter)

(bennett's outfit for this part of the chapter)

The next day after school, Brylee had went to Francesca's house with her boyfriend and friends to watch the finale she had recorded. It was unbelievable. One of the best finales of a show she ever watched and it was worth the wait. She was now at her house with Bennett in the living room, watching TV.

"I can't believe the Red Planet Diaries is over." She said in disbelief, leaning against him and resting her head on his chest.

"I know. I didn't think the finale would be that great, but it was." He nods in agreement, his arms wrapped around her. "We need a new show now."

They exchange a look when they suddenly heard a knock on the door. "Were you expecting anyone?" He asked.

"Nope." She replied, getting up to answer the door. "Wonder who that could be."

She opened the door and was surprised to see Riley standing there, looking like she had unshed tears in her eyes. "Hi, honey, I'm home!" Riley said, and forced a smile.

"Riley, are you okay?" Brylee asked, concerned about her friend. She and Bennett exchange a confused look before looking back at Riley.

"Yes...Kinda...I was just wondering if it would be alright if I stayed here with you for a while?" Riley questioned in a hopeful tone. Brylee noticed the tall brunette looked

"Yeah, of course. Come in." Brylee stepped aside so her friend could enter the house.

"What's with the rabbit?" Bennett questioned his cousin after seeing the white rabbit Riley held.

"He's my nightlight and the only thing I own." She mumbled.

"Maya's in her room, by the way." Brylee added as the brunette passed by her.

"Thanks." Riley sighed and headed towards the hallway, the two watching her.

Brylee glances at Bennett with confusion. "Wonder what's going on."

"Don't know, but we should stay out of it." Bennett responds, grabbing her hand and pulling her closer to him. "C'mere."

"So bossy." She chuckles and leans into him, smiling softly. "Can't get enough of me?" She teased, smirking playfully.

"Never." He grinned and leaned down to kiss her, making her heart flutter. She loved it when he kissed her. It always made her feel butterflies in her stomach, and a warm feeling. She'd never get tired of it.

"So, how have things been going with your mom? I haven't talked to you about that for a while." Brylee changed the subject. She had been worried about him lately, since he hadn't mentioned his mom and if she was causing trouble for him.

Bennett's face softens. "It's weird. Having her around." He admits "I didn't really think anything would change, but it did. She's trying to be a mom. I also think she and dad might be trying to rekindle their romance."

Brylee couldn't hide her surprise. She didn't expect that. "You think they'd get back together?"

"I'm not sure. It's a possibility. But, I think it would take a while. And a miracle. It's not like we're just gonna forget the past and everything she did. We all have issues from that." He explained.

"Yeah. I can understand that. I can't imagine how weird that must be. Having your mom back. Are you doing okay?" She asked, her hand moved up to run her hand through his hair soothingly. She knew he needed comfort, even if he wasn't showing it.

He leans into her touch and closes his eyes, letting out a sigh. "I think so. It's weird. But I'm managing. Thanks for asking."

"Anytime." She leans forward and kisses his forehead. "I'm always here if you need me."

"I know." He smiles at her and opens his eyes. "I'm glad you're here. I need you more than you think." He leaned in and pressed his lips against hers, his hand moving to the back of her neck to deepen the kiss.

She happily returns the kiss, and felt the butterflies again. She didn't think she would ever get tired of this. It was the best feeling in the world. Bennett pulls away, grinning down at her. "Alright, what was that look for?" Brylee asked, arching an eyebrow at Bennett's mischievous grin as she smiled with amusement.

Bennett chuckles, pulling her closer and leaning down to kiss the top of her head. "Just thinking about how perfect this moment is. You, me, and no distractions."

Brylee smiles warmly as her heart flutters while she rests her head on his shoulder. "Yeah, it really is nice. Even with the surprise visitor and everything."

"True. But it's nice to have some quiet time together, even if it's just for a little while," Bennett said, his fingers gently stroking her back.

"So, about your mom and dad rekindling things...Do you think it could actually work out?" Brylee asked, her tone gentle and curious while leaning into his comforting touch.

Bennett sighs, his expression thoughtful. "It's hard to say. They've been through so much, and there's a lot of hurt between them. But seeing them try...I guess it's something."

"I hope it works out for them, if that's what they want. It might be good for everyone." Brylee spoke softly, her hand resting on his chest. She hoped that things worked out for his parents, if that was what they wanted. It might be good for both of them and the family.

Bennett nods, smiling fondly at her. "Yeah, me too. Thanks for being so supportive. It means a lot."

"Anytime. I'm here for you, no matter what." Brylee smiled, leaning in for another tender kiss.

They settled back into their cozy spot, enjoying the quiet and each other's company. Outside, the world continued on, but in that moment, it felt like just the two of them mattered.

****

Later that night, Bennett had eventually gone back home and Brylee was hanging out in the living room when there was suddenly a knock at the door. Riley had left not long ago to go, saying she was going to go apologize to her mom and fix things. Brylee hoped that what happened would make them both stronger.

Brylee gets up to open the door, surprised when Topanga walked in and walked past her. "Hi, Brylee." She greeted the confused teen while continuing to walk down the hallway to Maya's room, assuming her daughter was still here.

Brylee blinks with surprise, watching her retreating figure. "Uh, hi?" She furrowed her eyebrows and closed the door, wondering why Topanga was here. She shrugged and went to sit back down on the couch. It wasn't any of her business. She was probably here for Maya. She went back to writing in her journal, currently writing an essay for class. It was about a historical figure she admired, which was fitting given how much she enjoyed history.

The tall blonde was lost in her writing when Topanga came back down the hallway. "Everything okay?" She questioned, looking up at the woman when she noticed her walking by.

"It would've helped if you told me Riley wasn't here." She sighed.

"You didn't give me the chance." Brylee points out. "Riley went back home to apologize to you. She seemed really apologetic and guilty and she felt horrible about everything."

Topanga's face softens. "Sorry if I was a little harsh before. I've been so stressed with the bakery and everything else."

"It's okay, I get it. I don't know what's going on with you and Riley, but I hope you guys work things out. She loves you." Brylee spoke softly.

"I know. I love her too. Okay, I'm gonna go talk to her. Have a good night." She smiled and turned around to leave.

"You too." Brylee calls, and watched the older woman leave the house. She sighed, setting her journal down. She got up and went to Maya's room to get an update on what was going on. "Knock knock." She calls out instead of knocking on the door before she walked in, finding her little sister drawing in her journal on her bed. "So," She walks over to sit on a nearby chair by Maya's bed. "I know it's not really my place, but what happened? I'm a little worried."

Maya nods, sitting up straighter since she had been leaning over. "Okay, so..." She began updating her sister on what has been going on with Riley and Topanga. About how Riley had told her mom no for the first time and that Topanga needed Riley's help at the bakery, but Riley had been looking forward to the Planet Dairies finale coming out and how she wanted to watch it.

Brylee was surprised, not expecting to hear Riley acting that way to her mom. She knew the young brunette was a sweet kid. She didn't think Riley would act that way. Especially to her mom. Though she did understand that when you're looking forward to something but then have something come up, it can be frustrating. She didn't blame her, though she was a bit surprised that she said no to her mother. She didn't think Riley had it in her. But Maya went on, adding how Riley had been crying all night upset about how she had been acting with her mom.

"And then she left earlier to go apologize." Maya finished.

"Wow." Brylee mumbles. "That's a lot."

"Yep." Maya sighs. "I hope things work out with them. I'm sure they will. It was just a little bump in the road."

"Yeah. Everything will work out, it's not like it's the end of the world. They'll be fine. They'll figure things out." Brylee reassures her sister. "So, did you guys not get to watch the finale yet?" She asks with surprise. She knew the girls had been so excited for it and even rewatched the whole show before hand. "I have it recorded."

Maya perks up at that, looking surprised. "You do? You better not be lying."

"I'm not. Want to watch it?" Brylee grinned and got up, heading towards the door.

"Duh." Maya hops off her bed, eagerly following Brylee out of her room. When they got to the living room, she plops down on the couch, noticing Brylee's open journal. "Is that the essay you've been working on?" She asked curiously, remembering Brylee mentioning before her recent project was an essay for History class.

Brylee nods as she turns on the TV and sets up the recording. "It's about a historical figure I admire. I thought it would be fitting since I love history so much."

Maya looks over at her sister, her curiosity piqued. "Who are you writing about?"

"I'm writing about Eleanor Roosevelt," Brylee says, settling on the couch next to Maya. "She was such an influential figure, especially in terms of human rights and social justice."

"Nice choice," Maya says, looking impressed. "She was pretty amazing. I remember learning about her in history class."

Brylee glances at her with surprise. "You remember something from a class - hold on," She does a double take. "You learned about something?" She teased smirking and elbowing her sister. 

Maya chuckles, rolling her eyes and shoving Brylee playfully. "Hey, I'll have you know, I'm a very attentive and curious student when I want to be."

Brylee can't help but laugh at that. "I'm just teasing you, sis. But it's good that you were paying attention in class." She said softly, smiling fondly at the blonde. She was proud of her little sister. She had been so happy to see how much Maya was changing and how well she was doing.

"What made you choose her?" Maya asks curiously, glancing back at the TV to watch the Red Planet Diaries finale. "You could've chosen anyone. Why did you choose her?"

Brylee smiles softly, her expression thoughtful. "Well, I chose Eleanor Roosevelt because she embodied so many qualities I admire. Her dedication to human rights, how hardworking she is, and her courage in standing up for what she believed in really inspire me. She wasn't afraid to challenge the status quo and fight for a better world, which is something I think we could all learn from."

Maya nods, clearly impressed. Yeah, she really was incredible. I can see why you'd choose her. She made a huge impact."

"Exactly," Brylee says, settling in on the couch with her sister. "It's important to remember people like her who have made such a difference. And it's a good reminder that we all have the potential to make a positive impact in our own way."

The TV screen lights up as the finale of Red Planet Diaries begins, and the two sisters settle in to watch, the tension of the day fading as they get lost in the show's final moments. The sisters dramatically sang along to the theme song of the show and cried and laughed during the episode. As the finale of Red Planet Diaries played out on the screen, the room was filled with the sounds of the dramatic theme song. Brylee and Maya sang along, their voices blending in a harmonious duet. The excitement and emotional intensity of the show mirrored their own feelings of anticipation and resolution. Brylee glanced over at Maya, who was clearly engrossed in the show, her eyes wide with excitement. It was moments like these that reminded Brylee of how much she valued her sister and the time they spent together.

"Can you believe how they wrapped everything up?" Maya asked, her eyes still glued to the screen as the final scenes unfolded.

"No way!" Brylee gasps, shaking her head in disbelief. "I didn't expect that twist at all."

The sisters continued to watch, their shared enthusiasm for the show adding a layer of warmth to the evening. As the credits rolled, they both sighed in contentment. "That was amazing," Maya gushes, turning to her sister with a grin. "Thanks for recording it. It was totally worth it."

Brylee smiles back, feeling a deep sense of satisfaction. "I'm glad you enjoyed it. I had a great time, too. Sometimes it's nice to just take a break and watch something fun."

Maya nods in agreement, stretching her arms above her head. "Definitely. It's a good way to unwind after everything that's happened today."

"Yeah," Brylee says thoughtfully, "And it's nice to have these moments with you. They remind me of how important family is, especially during the tough times."

Maya gave her a warm smile. "I'm glad we're able to have these moments, too. It means a lot."

They settled into a comfortable silence, the earlier tensions and worries of the day drifting away as they enjoyed each other's company. The evening ended on a high note, with both sisters feeling a renewed sense of connection and understanding.