'I forgot how bad it really was...'

Jake grunts, shaking his head as he looks under the hood. Me too. I sigh, as he turns to me giving me a look as if I've just gone mental while he asks.

'Three weeks?'

I smile awkwardly, as Jake shakes his head again leaning against the beat-up black metal that was once Matt's pride and joy.

'If you don't think you can handle it ...I can always go to someone else.'

I whistle looking around me. You won't let me, come on! I think, hoping that a bit of provocation will make him determined to take on the job. My lip curls up in a smirk as he instantly takes the bate.

'Of course, I can do it! But I'd almost have to build it back up from scratch. Buying a new one would be easier and less expensive, this is not an easy fix.'

'No.'

I simply state. Not an option. I shake my head as Jake wails.

'Lex, this is every's mechanics worst fucking nightmare! Almost half of the bodywork needs replacing. Obviously, a new set of windows. And don't even get me started about what's under the hood!'

'Jake, no. I don't care what it'll cost or if I have to airlift parts from all over the world, it needs to be this car.'

I tell him determined. This is Matt's baby, she can't be replaced. That was the reason in the first place we got her out of the ravine so quickly back then and Jake knows this too.

'Are you sure he won't kill me as soon as he sets eyes on her?

He asks quietly as he walks around the car again, forcing the driver-side door open with a loud screeching sound that makes my hairs stand on end as I say.

'He may scream when he sees her, or pass out. But no, he won't kill you, Jake. If there's one person he'd trust with his car, it'd be you.'

I crouch in front of Jake who's sitting awkwardly in the jammed front seat, looking around the interior. Common, please! I bat my eyelashes at him, trying to persuade him. He gives me a little shove on the shoulder, grumbling something under his breath as he nods.

'Fine, I'll do it.'

'Thank you. Thank you, thank you ...thank you, Jake! You're the best!'

I squeal, slinging my arms around his neck. This will be the best birthday present ever! He laughs softly, patting my back as he mutters still not entirely convinced this won't be the death of him.

'Yeah, yeah... Just make sure by the time he finds out, he knows this was your damn idea!'

'I will, hahah, though I think he'll thank you on his bare knees when he finds out.'

'Let's hope so...'

He sighs, looking through the bent metal and nonexistent window. Dragging his hand through his hair as he groans.

'I'll better go and make some calls then. We need a lot of parts, and we need them yesterday.'

I nod, standing up so he can get out. He walks over to his desk, rummaging through piles of paper. He scribbles down a few numbers, before making a ball out of it and throwing it to me as he shouts.

'Here, I wasn't kidding when I said you were going to help! This job would normally take months, I need some help if we're going to pull this off in such a short time span. Call these and ask what they have, tell them it's for me, that'll speed things up.'

I nod getting out my phone as Jake also starts dialing some numbers. I wasn't joking when I said I was going to jump in either... Within an hour we have already gathered most of the parts we need. Jake sure as hell has some good friends around the country. Every time I'd speak his name people instantly started running about. If they wouldn't have anything we needed themselves, they'd call their connections for help and so forth. I grab a can of soda out of the fridge, having called the last number on my list as I wait for Jake to finish. As soon as he hangs up he turns to me, leaning back in his chair as he grins.

'Who's the best?'

'You are.'

I chuckle, sitting down on the corner of his desk taking a sip of my drink as I ask him.

'What are you, some kind of mechanic royalty? As soon as I'd utter your name, people started pulling strings everywhere around them to make sure they got their hands on the parts we need.'

'I have good connections.'

He smirks, proudly tapping his pen on the paper lying in front of him.

'For now, we got most of the important stuff sorted out, the rest we'll have to figure out along the way. I take it you want to get her back as close to the original?'

'Yes, no free range on this one. She needs to be exactly as he remembers.'

Jake nods in understanding, hopping to his feet as he chuckles.

'One blast from the past, coming right up.'

His reference makes me laugh as well. I always saw Matt as my ghost from the past, haunting me so I could never let go of him. Might as well return the favor and give him one of his own too. I smile, dumping my empty can in the trash.

'You still know how to do some of the basic work under the hood?'

He asks and I immediately cross my arms, offended he even dares to voice that question as I mutter.

'Don't ask ridiculous questions. You're talking to me, not Rebekah! You know I still do most of my maintenance myself. I don't have a lift bridge, yet, so doing stuff underneath I'm not that familiar with. But if you can take it out, I can make it.'

'Yet? Don't tell me you're going to take all my work away by getting one?'

He laughs, walking back to Matt's car. I follow him, leaning against it as he grabs a few tools and starts to loosen the engine.

'I'm moving to a new place soon, it has a bridge. But don't worry I'll still give you a call for the heavy work, mostly because I have too little time to delve into those jobs myself...'

'Good.'

He smirks, looking up at me before heading back to work as he mumbles.

'For now, there isn't too much you can do. I'll start taking everything apart to see what we can salvage, see you tomorrow?'

He asks, dropping the top of the air filter on a tray next to him before looking up at me.

'Yeah, I'm not sure yet what time I'll be here because of work, but I'll come as soon as I can okay?'

He nods, looking over my clothes with a grin on his face as he snorts.

'Make sure to bring another set of clothes, don't wanna ruin your pretty dresses. Besides, I think he'll see through your little charade a little too easy if you come home every night covered in grease.'

'Way ahead of you, sherlock.'

I chuckle, walking over to my car and popping open the hood. I get out a duffle bag dropping it at his feet with a satisfied smile on my face. It has everything I need, clothes, shoes, but also some stuff to make sure I look decent once I'm done and have to head back home. He nods, grabbing the bag and putting it away before laying back down on his creeper. Continuing his work on another car, which he was busy with when I first came in as I shout.

'I'll see you when I see you!'

'You know the way!'

He yells back, popping his head back out so he can wave me off. I knew you'd help. I smile back at him.

Putting my foot on the throttle I speed off as I wave back through my rear window. It has been a busy few days, trying to arrange everything besides work. I've barely talked to Matt in the meantime, juggling with work, the move, and getting his car over to Jake's. Not to mention Néomy who's keeping a close eye on the two of us as soon as we're home.

At night we spend most of our time catching up. Since I'd already brought her up to speed about everything that happened on my end, it was now her turn to tell me about everything she did the past year. She had been to the worst parts of South Africa, Peru, Cambodia, Thailand, Honduras, Tanzania, and even India to work as a medical practitioner volunteer. In some places she stayed longer than others, just enjoying the fact that she could be helpful. She has been doing this work for several years and even though I miss her whenever she is gone, barely able to talk to her because of the lack of resources. But I know this is what makes her happy. Saving people's lives gives her a sense of purpose and she pours her entire heart and soul into it, I admire her for being able to cope with it all. We've shed a few tears together as she told me some of the stories that didn't end well. It's all part of the job, is what she would utter most of the time. But I knew that every time it involved children, it still left a scar in her sacred heart. Her big mouth has always been a way to cover her gentle soul... I smile to myself as I take another turn. Her actions proved that time and time again. Keeping every single item a patient once gave her, like handmade bracelets, necklaces, or drawings. Especially taking good care of the ones she got from patients who wouldn't pull through...

I pull up the driveway and into the garage. Figuring the others are probably already asleep I walk into the kitchen for a quick smoke before heading off to bed myself. These next few weeks are going to be crazy... I gaze out the window, taking a draft when I suddenly hear footsteps coming down the stairs. I quickly push out my cigarette, opening a window when Matt's strong arms suddenly pull me to him from behind as he chuckles quietly.

'Busted.'

I smile sideways, glad it's him and not Rebekah or Néomy who'd probably give me another scolding when they'd see me smoking. He gives me a kiss on my cheek, still holding me to him as he whispers.

'I've missed you...'

I blush softly, leaning back against his chest and enjoying his warmth. I've missed you too... I breathe, a soft smile on my face as his fingers play with mine.

'Néomy will kick your ass if she sees us like this...'

I giggle, not making an effort to get away from him. He snorts in my ear turning me around in his arms, his fingers tracing my jawline as he mutters.

'Like I'd care. She'll find a reason to give me an earful whether I'm doing something wrong or not. What did you tell her anyway? She's been on my case ever since she got back, I barely find the time to see you anymore.'

I grin slightly at his mocking tone, and a little hint of jealousy burns in his eyes that I'm spending more time with her than him. I place my hand on his stubble as I laugh softly, trying to reassure him.

'She's just looking out for me Matt, nothing more... It's not her fault I've been swarmed with work now that I'm back.'

'It's not just that, even when you're not around she's constantly in my face. Normally, she'd keep as far away from me as possible whenever we were in the same room.'

He grunts almost painfully making me laugh again. I place a soft kiss on his jaw, suddenly feeling shy after not having spoken, or touched, him ever since we came back from Ibiza and I mumble.

'I'll tell her to back off a little, alright?'

He smiles happily, giving me a once-over as he mumbles.

'You look ravishing tonight...'

'You're not too bad yourself, Blackwell...'

I whisper timidly, averting my eyes from him. I've always had a weak spot seeing you walk around the house with a pair of sweats clinging to your hips along with a tight-fitting tank top... I grumble to myself as his hands grasp my waist a little bit harder, shaking me from my thoughts so I'd look up at him again. The darkness around us in the kitchen only draws out the beauty of his green eyes even more as he asks softly, a hint of excitement lingering in his voice.

'Can't you sneak into my bed tonight?'

I smirk at his tempting offer, secretly wanting nothing more than to stay with him as I scoff.

'You know I can't...'

He lifts me up, setting me down on the counter, his sudden dominance making me giggle as he kisses my neck with urgency. God, Matty... I breathe as he pries my legs open so he can stand between them. His hands traveling underneath the rim of my dress, squeezing my thighs as he whispers against my throat.

'You said things wouldn't go back to the way they were, beautiful...'

The underlying disappointment is evident in his voice as he buries his head in my hair, forming a knot in my stomach. I don't want that either! I cuss to myself, jerking his head back up. He looks slightly surprised by my action, not able to react as I swiftly clash my lips on top of his. I really don't!

Instantly returning my kiss, his fingers grasp my thighs as I roam my fingers through his hair. A groan escapes his lips as his tongue enters my mouth, hungrily exploring it. Knowing our moment will probably end before either of us want it to. Even if it's only been a few days since we were together, I'm only now realizing how much I've missed his kisses and caresses already... I moan as we pull back after a few more seconds, both panting for air. You're so fucking addictive it makes my head spin. I look up at him, smirking slightly as I murmur.

'It won't, Matty.'

A sly smile forms on his lips as well, hearing my answer and he pecks my lips once more before quickly letting me go when we hear someone else come downstairs.

'Good.'

He murmurs, leaning against the other side of the counter trying to act as innocent when Bear strolls into the kitchen. I can't help but giggle seeing the relief wash over his face when he realizes it's just the dog, instead of Néomy catching us in the act. Bear stops to drink some water before, to my surprise, he walks over to Matt instead of greeting me. Matt crouches down, petting him on the back as he chuckles.

'At least one of your keepers seems to like me. Huh, don't you Bear?'

He barks softly in return, happily wagging his tail at Matt. Unbelievable... I pick up another cigarette from my pack, crossing my legs since I'm still sitting on the counter as I snort while lighting the end.

'Bear likes everyone... He's too damn old to hate.'

'Oh, don't you listen to her...'

Matt huffs to Bear, scratching him behind the ear before he stands back up. The Stafford lays down at his feet, watching the two of us as I ask humored.

'How does Néomy take it though? That dog is her everything and listens to her every whim, I'm surprised she didn't tell him to back away from you.'

'She tried too. But unfortunately for her, I'm just too irresistible, even for dogs.'

Matt grins, looking back down at Bear making me burst out in laughter. Oh, she sure doesn't like that... I chuckle to myself, nearly choking on my cigarette as I tell Matt in between coughs.

'Don't get too cocky *cough* even though he's old *cough* if Néomy orders him to *cough* he'll chew your balls off...'

'Wouldn't want that now, do we?'

Matt smirks, pulling one of his brows up. Fuck you. I curse, my face instantly flushing as I throw a water bottle to his head and scoff.

'Jackass.'

He catches the bottle with ease, a "tsk" sound leaving his lips as he moves his finger disapprovingly back and forth before setting the bottle down next to him. You asked for it... I eye him, the corners of my mouth still lifted in a smile. He decides to let it slide, this time, looking up at me a little more seriously as he asks.

'How's work going? Has Ian been bothering you?'

I shake my head, tapping some ash off my cigarette as I tell him.

'No, Delphine made sure he understood he's not welcome at the studio anymore. The only time I'll have to see him face to face is the concert, thank fuck for that. Though he tries to make things as hard as possible, constantly changing his mind about the layout for the show and stuff like that.'

'At least that's one thing less to worry about.'

Matt breathes, glad that at least we aren't confined in the same space anymore until then. I shrug my shoulders, not wanting to talk about him as I ask.

'And you? How's the shop going?'

'It's getting there now that I've finally managed to close a deal with the realtor. Next week we're getting the keys and we can start getting the place ready.'

'Congrats, I'm happy that you're finally getting a shop of your own. That's what you always wanted, right?'

I ask him slightly worried, seeing the halfhearted smile on his face as he looks to the side lost in thoughts. You should be stoked right now... Why aren't you? I think, pushing out my cigarette before I hop off the counter and walk over to him. Still feeling troubled because he doesn't react I peer up into his eyes, wondering what's going on as I ask quietly.

'Matty, what is it?'

'Hmm? Oh, nothing... I just hoped things would've moved quicker than this, that's all.'

He murmurs looking my way. I grind my teeth, not completely convinced that's the reason he's being so down in the dumps when he gently smiles down at me and whispers.

'I'll be fine, beautiful... Just a lot of things to work through in a short amount of time, but I know I'll get it done.'

'Of course, you will.'

I whisper, trying to kiss his cheek while making sure I won't trip over Bear. Matt chuckles at my awkwardness, stepping over the dog and wrapping his arms around me as he murmurs lovingly.

'Thanks for worrying about me, gorgeous...'

I hug him back, burying my head in his chest as I take a deep breath of his intoxicating cologne. Always... I smile, knowing I just can't help myself. He kisses the top of my head as I sigh, unwillingly to let go of him.

'I should get some sleep... I think Delphine is trying to punish me for being such a pain in the ass, my schedule for the next few weeks is brutal.'

Not entirely true... Even though she is adamant about busting my ass, a lot of my spare time I'll be heading over to Jake's to work on Matt's gift. But I can't tell him that. Matt sighs, looking down at me as he murmurs.

'I won't be around much either, getting furniture and appliances for the shop will probably swallow up most of my time.'

'A month...'

I breathe, not able to hide my disappointment knowing that we won't speak to each other much in the meantime.

'A month to get everything done. Your concert, the shop, the move... After that, we'll finally be able to take a breather.'

Matt mumbles kissing the top of my head. I smile up at him excitement sparkling in my eyes as I remind him.

'Don't forget about your birthday...'

He shakes his head, knowing I won't let it go as he hugs me again.

'We know how to make it hard on ourselves, don't we?'

This time frame is nearly impossible... I joke self-mockingly, making Matt chuckle as well. He takes my chin between his fingertips, placing a soft kiss on my lips.

'We sure do...'

I whisper, Matt kissing me again before looking down at Bear who's watching the both of us intently. And he points his finger at him as he tells him in a stern voice.

'This is our little secret, your little misses can't know about this.'

He yammers softly in return as if he knows exactly what Matt just told him making me giggle. Bear really seems to take a liking to him... I think as he pulls me by my hand and walks me up the stairs to my room, turning back to me once we're in front of my door. His eyes lovingly gaze down at me, and he kisses the corner of my mouth as he whispers barely audible.

'Goodnight, beautiful...'

I place my arms around his neck, pulling myself up a bit so I can do the same as I breathe against his ear.

'Night, Matty...'

I let go of him, watching him as he walks off to his own room. A little voice still gnawing in the back of my mind, ushering me to follow him. I can't. I tell myself. Shaking my head as Bear rubs his nose against the door, opening it for me as we both walk inside.

I quickly change into my pajamas before sneaking into bed next to Néomy while Bear also makes himself comfortable on a blanket on the ground at her side. I sigh softly, turning on my side as I try to fall asleep when I suddenly hear a grumble beside me.

'Just can't help yourself, can you?'

My shoulders instantly jolt as I turn around to see Néomy staring at me. Shit... She rolls her eyes, too tired to make a big fuss over it as she yawns.

'Don't bother, I heard the two of you coming up the stairs...'

'We were just talking a bit in the kitchen before heading to bed...'

I scoff, trying to defend myself as I pull up the sheets some more. Among other things... I think silently, hoping to God she can't read my mind.

'I'll get him back for it later...'

Néomy yawns again, having trouble keeping her eyes open. I give her a little shove, remembering I promised Matt to talk to her as I mumble.

'Lay off him already, he isn't that bad.'

'Yet...'

She comments dryly, giving me a look that says it all. I shake my head, chuckling at her protectiveness as I lay my head on her pillow and murmur.

'At least give him a chance to try and make up for it...'

'Alright, whatever. I just wanna sleep right now... What kind of idiotic hours has that witch working you for anyway?'

She grumbles, referring to Delphine as she rubs her eyes. I haven't told her about Matt's present, afraid she'd think I've gone entirely mental. Her tiredness rubbing off on me, making me yawn as well as I say.

'Early shifts, graveyard shifts, and pretty much everything in between... We can have dinner together somewhere this week somewhere in between my work if you want?'

'Mmm... Sounds good.'

She breathes, wiggling in her spot as she closes her eyes again.

'Night Nomes.'

'...Night.'

She murmurs, already dozing back to sleep. My lips curl up in a lazy smile as I close my eyes as well, gradually falling asleep.

***

'No, this ain't happening!'

I yell to Delphine, looking towards Ryan and motioning down as I plead with him.

'Ryan, tell her this is ludicrous!'

'It's ...something?'

He murmurs, cocking his head trying to be as nice as possible. Exactly, not even you can say a nice word about this! I groan looking back at Delphine who has her hand over her mouth trying to stifle her laughter.

'I'm not wearing this! Tell Ian he can shove it.'

I protest, crossing my arms. I look like a damn hooker! I've never been cautious about my body and worn all kinds of outfits, even during tours that would make a nun blush. But this fucking tops them all! I cringe looking back over my shoulder into the mirror. A cheap silver glittery top with a low cut that's bound together on my back by a few strings, literally! Making me stand still like a statue, afraid I might flash my boobs otherwise. The skirt isn't much better... Made from the same fabric, and even though it's made out of one piece it barely covers anything! I find myself trying to pull it down every few seconds, but since there is nowhere for it to go otherwise it would expose even more. Giving me the choice that either the rounding of my arse is sticking out from underneath, or it will be showing my buttcrack. Two choices of which I'm both not too keen on, to say the least! I haven't even dared to put on the pair of heels that go along with it, not because they're too high or anything. They are actually the only item I do like. But out of fear that my posture would reveal, even more, than I already am. I don't dare to make another fucking move.

'Delphine, this is out of the question! What does he think? This will change everyone's mind, thinking I'm the reason we ended?!'

I roar, itching to burn this scrimpy outfit as soon as possible. If I look the whore, I must be the whore? Don't make me fucking laugh! I grumble as I look back over to Ryan who's averting his eyes. Feeling it's inappropriate while he doesn't even like girls, to begin with! No, not even a hooker would wear this! No point in selling the goods before cashing in. I cuss, as Delphine giggles her high-pitched tone cutting through the silence.

'Alright, alright. We've had our laugh, I'll give his manager a call. I don't know what he was thinking agreeing to this in the first place.'

I breathe a sigh of relief as soon as she walks off, shuffling my way back into the changing room so I can get on some decent clothes instead while I yell.

'You can tell him I'm keeping the shoes!'

Ryan laughs in response, getting back behind his computer as he mumbles.

'So... How are things going at home?'

'Urgh, honestly? I can't wait until the move is done. That place is really starting to feel cramped!'

I mutter, shoving the skirt and top out of my sight as I grab my shirt. Thank god no one else ever got to see me in this! I swear, jumping into my pants as Ryan asks.

'I didn't mean that. How are things with that gorgeous man of yours?'

'I've barely seen him... And when I do, Nomes keeps a stern eye on the both of us! If we want a little peace to even have a normal conversation we have to sneak around like a bunch of bloody teenagers at night!'

'I thought you'd be happy Néomy got back?'

Ryan chuckles, intrigued that I'm complaining about her meddling.

'Of course, I am!'

I shout, getting out of the changing room so I can look at him as I sit down to put on my boots.

'I just wish they wouldn't be at each other's throats all the time!'

'They still don't have much love for each other, do they?'

He giggles amused, making me snort in response as I put on my other boot grumbling back at him.

'I'm surprised they haven't killed each other already. Matt's trying, I think, but Nomes doesn't want anything to do with it. God, she's stubborn! I love her as my best friend and I know she's just trying to look out for me...'

'But?'

Ryan smirks, knowing there's something else. Staying out of other people's business was never your strong suit. I smile, rolling my eyes as I walk over to him and sigh.

'But... How can I figure out what's going on between me and Matt if I can't even get close to him in my own damn house?'

'Néomy is just testing him and you know it.'

He smiles, knowing that she would do anything to protect me from being hurt.

'And what are you feeling? Do you still love him?'

'At this point, the only way to describe how I'm feeling is bloody clueless...'

I groan, sitting down next to him and grabbing my lunch. Are we considered a couple now? I have no fucking idea... I bite a piece out of my sandwich, turning over to look at Ryan as I ask.

'Seriously, how does someone forget how they broke your heart?'

He shrugs his shoulders still working on his laptop as he murmurs.

'I don't know, sweetie. Are you sure you got all your facts straight?'

'God, you sound just like Alex.'

I grunt, putting down my lunch already having lost my appetite as Ryan finally turns his attention back on me. A malicious glimmer in his eyes as he whistles hearing my brother's name.

'Well, your brother clearly has a brain underneath all his sexy deliciousness.'

'Oh, Jesus Ryan. What would happen if Kendall heard you say that?'

'He'd agree.'

Ryan smirks, wiggling his brows. How did I ever get friends like these? I wonder throwing my hands in the air, having run out of comebacks as I groan.

'Can we just go back to work? We've wasted enough time entertaining Ian's stupid charades.'

***
Two days later:

'I can't believe we had to plan a dinner date, just so I can spend some time with you. I had to come all the way across town for one fucking hour...'

Néomy groans as she slides in her chair, looking over the menu to decide what she wants to eat.

'I thought you liked Indian food, this is the best place around.'

I giggle, my eyes skimming over the menu even though I already know what I'm going to get. She pulls her brow, looking over the card as she mutters.

'The food isn't the problem, that slave worker you call your boss is.'

I lay down the menu, fidgeting with the rim as I murmur.

'It's not all Delphine... I meant to tell you this before but didn't exactly know how to since you and Matt are constantly at war together...'

'What?'

She asks when the server walks up to us. Both of us quickly order our food and some drinks before she turns her attention back on me and I sigh.

'I've not just been busy with work, Nomes. I've been spending every minute besides work at Jake's. You know, the guy with the workshop on the other end of town? We're getting Matt's old car restored as a surprise for his birthday.'

She perks her lips, her eyes drawn together as she's trying to figure out whether to scold me or not while I continue.

'You might think it's nonsense... I know you never understood our love for cars, but this means a lot to all of us.'

'I take it you're talking about that pile of junk that tumbled down the cliff along with him?'

I nod, biting my lip. It's not a pile of junk. I grunt although I decide not to tell her that out loud, knowing it'll only lead to another argument.

'You're right, I never got why you guys could be so hung up on cars... But I'm not stupid either, you wouldn't be sneaking around if this wasn't important to you.'

She sighs, taking a sip of her drink still studying me as she asks.

'Why didn't you tell me sooner? At least I would've known why you didn't have the time to hang around.'

'Like I said, because you're still at Matt's throat every chance you get. I thought you'd be mad...'

'I'm not angry, Lex... And you're right, I need to give him a chance. Even though it's pretty funny to watch him squirm as soon as I enter the room, I've noticed he's really trying not to piss me off.'

I can't help but smile, seeing that Néomy is starting to change her ways. This won't mean she won't be on his case anymore, I know her too well for that. But at least it's something. I think as I murmur.

'Just don't try to kill him before his birthday, alright? Otherwise, all of my hard work will be for nothing and it'll be me who's pissed.'

She nods snorting with laughter as the waiter comes back, putting our plates on the table. We both dig in happily as we change up the conversation and Néomy says.

'I've been keeping myself busy helping out your brother packing stuff around the house. Later on next week the movers are coming, right?'

'Hmhm, that's right. I've noticed stuff vanishing into boxes around the house, thanks for helping out. Time is moving so damn fast, I barely can wrap my mind around it all... I'm glad I managed to pack my room and a few other things before we went to Ibiza, at least I got that part done.'

I agree, munching on another bite of food. She waves me off, telling me it's nothing as she continues.

'Matt and Rebekah can't help much either since they're busy with getting their shop ready. I thought he could use the help since there isn't much else for me to do when you're not around. I certainly understand now why you want to move to a bigger house, having five people living together in the apartment is a lot... If you want me to search for something elsewhere just say the word.'

'Are you crazy? You know you're always welcome with us, or is living so close to Matt's quarters getting to you?'

I ask laughing softly. I can't remember either of them staying confined in the same space for this amount of time, so I'd get it if that was the case. She shakes her head, still not looking happy about it as she grunts.

'It's not my ideal plan for a holiday back home, but I can handle him. He needs to back off from Bear though!'

'Yeah they seem to get along rather well, don't they?'

I chuckle as I finish my last bite, Néomy doing the same as she groans frustratedly.

'That old bastard is cheating on me. I swear every time he lays his eyes on Matt some kind of spell washes over him and he doesn't even listen to me anymore... You're sure he isn't spiking his food?'

'Nah, he's always been good with dogs. He just has this air about him that draws them to him or something...'

'Not just dogs...'

She huffs, pulling a brow. Yeah, I know! I'm also helpless when it comes to him... I groan taking a sip of my drink. I wave over to the waiter again to get the bill as I grumble.

'Anyways, I've gotta run. That car has been a frikkin' nightmare so far, and at this rate I'm not even sure we can finish it in time...'

'Can't Rebekah help out?'

Néomy asks as I pay the bill, snorting with laughter just thinking about it as I tell her.

'Rebekah, seriously? If I even think about letting her anywhere near Jake's garage he'll slaughter me. You know she can't be near any machinery if we ever want it to run again. Driving is one thing, repairing them is something else...'

'Point taken.'

She laughs remembering all the times she screwed up basic appliances by just looking at them. Tattoo guns are all she's managed to be around without making them spontaneously combust... I giggle getting out of my seat as we walk outside together.

'Besides, she's also keeping an eye on Matt to make sure he doesn't suspect anything.'

I mutter hugging Néomy close before saying our goodbyes. She gives me a sly smile in return, already turning around and walking away as she snorts.

'He's too stupid to figure out what you're planning for him, don't worry about that...'

She just can't help herself. I laugh, shaking my head as I walk over to my car. Insulting him has become her second nature, the day that'll change I'll be sure to take her to the hospital to make sure she isn't dying on me...

***
One week later:

'The oil filter and the radiator are done for. Not even I can manage to fix those. I'll go and make some more calls to see if I can replace them.'

Jake grunts, dumping his tools on the cart before walking over to his desk. I heave a sigh, swiping away some sweat as I murmur.

'The engine itself looks surprisingly good. I need to do a little tweaking here and there, but I'll get it up and running again.'

Jake nods, a smile spreading on my face as he looks up at me waiting for the guy on the other end to answer, pointing his finger at me as he snorts.

'Got a little grease on your face now.'

'I've got grease everywhere.'

I chuckle, holding my hands up. It's a good thing I brought spare clothes and some stuff to make myself look decent afterward, I grin getting back to my work as Jake focuses his attention back on the phone. Jesus, how will we ever get this done within a week? I sigh as I continue to clean some of the loosened parts when I suddenly hear two cars speeding onto the premises. I look up to see who it is, my hands continuing their work blindly. Both cars come to a screeching halt just out front. The familiar bodywork already revealed their drivers to me, Shelby and Ruby. They both jump out of their cars, Shelby waving her firey red hair as Ruby drags a hand through her black and blue mohawk grinning wildly. What are they doing here? I wonder as their attention immediately turns toward me while they yell, one by one, finishing the other's words.

'Now I'll be damned if it isn't Lexi!'

'We thought Jake went nuts when he said you'd be here.'

I drop my tools, leaning back a bit with a smile on my face as I snort.

'So far for keeping it a secret. Got to teach that guy what keeping his mouth shut means...'

'Come on, you know we won't spill your little secret.'

Ruby chuckles, giving me a sideways hug. I eagerly return her hug, trying not to get grease all over her. Doing the same with Shelby as she asks.

'It's true then? You're restoring Matt's ride?'

I sigh, putting the parts to the side so I can stand up motioning over to the impala's parts laying scattered around.

'It sure is a bigger job than I hoped it would be.'

The both of them quirk a brow, smirking slightly as Ruby says.

'Honey. Why do you think Jake called us in the first place?'

'We're the backup plan. Your fairy godmothers have arrived to save the day.'

Shelby smiles proudly, swinging her arm around Ruby. Thank the bloody heavens! I nod, picking up my drink as I say.

'We could sure as hell need the help if we want to pull this off with only one week left.'

'Always one to shoot for the stars.'

Ruby snorts, looking around her while shaking her head as Shelby gives her a playful shove and giggles.

'Stars? More like the impossible...'

'It isn't fucking impossible and the two of you know it!'

I swear, a smile still on my face knowing that they didn't come here for nothing. We used to spend half of our childhood together, racing against each other but also helping out with work that needed to be done on our cars. They're probably one of the only women around that know as much about cars as Jake does.

'Are you coming back then?'

Ruby asks interested, as she strolls around the workshop. Shelby follows her along, inspecting some parts up close as she continues.

'We haven't seen you around this world in forever, we've missed you.'

'I'm not back to race again, girls. I just want to get Matt his car back for his birthday now that he's driving again, somewhat...'

'Somewhat?'

Ruby asks, looking back at me her brows drawn together. I sigh, sitting back down and going back to work as I mutter to them.

'He has taken my car for a spin, twice, but I don't think he'll actually get back behind the wheel unless it's in this car.'

They both nod in understanding, Ruby walking over to Jake in his office as Shelby crouches down next to me.

'How is he doing, other than that?'

She asks carefully choosing her words, although I know exactly what she means. I give her a gentle smile, looking at the now restored bodywork of his car as I murmur.

'He's managing. His back gives him more trouble than he's eager to let on... But I guess that only suits his cocky personality.'

My words make her chuckle slightly as she sits down next to me, meddling around with the transmission.

'He was never the talking type. Such a shame because he missed out on a lot because of it.'

She mutters silently, her hands and eyes still focused on what she's doing. I nod in agreeance, as I put the cleaned pieces aside and mumble.

'He has his moments...'

'Ohh? Have the two of you finally caved in then?'

Shelby asks with shining eyes as she looks up at me. I shake my head laughing, you've always rooted for the two of us even if I never told you how crazy I really was about him.

'Not exactly, I said moments. He's been staying with us since he came back and a lot has happened, things aren't the same as they used to be Shelbs...'

'Well bless the racing Gods for that! You two were running ...or rather driving circles around each other and everyone could see it! About damn time you two figured it out.'

'That obvious, huh?'

I groan, cocking my head to the side as I try to pry another piece of the engine loose so I can clean it when I hear Ruby snort from the side as she walks up to the both of us along with Jake.

'Honey, everyone knew you had the hots for each other! All the girls didn't dare to come close to him, afraid you'd rip their throats out. And the only boy brave and stupid enough to try and win you over was Nick.'

'Urgh! Do you really have to bring him up?'

I cringe, hearing his name alone is enough to leave a bad taste in my mouth... The last time I saw Nicky was probably five years ago and I can't say I've missed his clingy ways in the slightest!

'Does he still dance with your brother?'

Shelby asks, rejecting my pleas to not talk about him at all. I shake my head at their resilience as I grumble.

'Thank fuck no! They still see each other from time to time, but Alex is too busy with his clubs to go dancing around for fun anymore. I guess we all had to grow up from the good old days...'

'I'm not, driving is in my blood! I know it's in yours too Lex, your rockstar life just took a bit priority for now...'

Shelby huffs and I give her a sideways smile in return. You're right... I breathe, looking around me. I didn't even realize how much I missed it until I came back to Jake's. Seeing most of the old crew again, working together to get Matt's impala back to its old glory certainly draws out a lot of memories... Since we've spent most of our childhood together I feel bad for pulling out the way I did a few years ago. At the time the racing world just dragged out too many bad memories... I knew they understood, every one of them was there when Matt tumbled down the cliff. They all saw what it did to me... Ruby and Shelby were the ones who got me home afterward, while Jake took Rebekah to the hospital. Even though I still enjoyed driving, it has never been the same ever since then. When Matt left it had only gotten worse. I missed him terribly whenever I would drop by at one of the races. Never able to stay longer than an hour or so because of it. Rebekah stayed around a little while longer, still visiting all of them regularly, but Matt's accident had scared her as well... Ruby pulls me out of my thoughts, gently rubbing my back as she says.

'We know, Lex... Don't worry about it, as long as you remember there will always be a place for you with us. That's what matters most.'

'I know, thanks...'

I smile back at her, hopping back to my feet so we can get some work done. Knowing we still need to put in a lot of hard labor if we want to pull this off.

It's well after midnight by the time I get back home. Not tired enough to head to bed yet and with the entire house wrapped up in boxes because the movers are coming the day after tomorrow, I decide to grab another pair of sweats laying around my own garage. Even with most of our stuff packed up here as well, there are still some tools laying around so I can do some labor. The atmosphere around Jake's workplace seemingly rubbed off on me as I feel the urge to work on my own mustang since the air filter has been giving me some trouble lately. I put on some music before popping open the hood, placing a light near so I can see properly as I mutter to myself.

'Let's see if we can find the problem...'