So again, thank you all! I'll let you know if I change my mind about writing anything.

Oh, and I hope you all had a nice holiday and a Happy New Year!

"Why'd you let me eat that much?" He groaned.

Hayley laughed and faked a gasp.  "You're blaming me?"

"You're supposed to stop me from doing stupid stuff."

"Josh, no one can stop you from doing stupid stuff.  Even if they tried."  This came from one of his cousins who was sitting near them.  Hayley laughed at this.

Suddenly a movie appeared on the screen.  As the title screen appeared, there were audible groans from, what sounded to be, mostly men.  From somewhere on the other side of the room, one of the boys spoke up.  "Who the hell put this on?!"  The word "Titanic" was displayed on the screen. 

"Man, I'm out." It was Matt who said that, standing up and joining another one of the boys.

"Me too-" Josh began as Hayley reached out for his arm to make him stay.  She didn't say anything.  She just gave him a look, jutting out her bottom lip a little.

"Guess not." He said, settling into his spot and letting Hayley snuggle against him.

He watched the movie for awhile, or at least tried to, but the Titanic is a chick flick and Josh was....well, a guy.  After awhile, he took out his iPhone, checking for messages, then checking his e-mails, then starting to play games.  About 45 minutes into the movie, Hayley finally noticed that Josh was a bit preoccupied.

She instantly sat up, pulling away from him.  Trying to be quiet, she began her rant.  "If you didn't want to watch the movie with me, you could've just gone with them." She whispered, a bit of anger in her voice.  Knowing they would probably become louder, Josh stood up and directed for them to move to the hallway.

"You know I didn't have a choice.  I was going to leave and you pulled me back down."

"Oh, I'm sorry Josh!  I thought that you might like to spend some time with me and watch a movie." They were whisper-yelling now, trying to keep their voices low.

"Hayley, all I do is spend time with you!" He fought back.  As soon as the last word slipped out, he was mentally yelling at himself.

Hayley got quiet for a minute.  "Oh."  As she said this, her lips stayed in that shape for a minute.  "So this is how you feel."

Josh reached out, beginning to try and fix what he had said.  "No!  Babe," He began to pleade, but Hayley wouldn't hear it.

"All I was saying is that we watch movies all the time at home.  Even if you don't like it, you still watch them with me.  I just didn't see why it was such a big deal and why you had to be rude about it.  But right now, I don't want to talk to you, Josh.  Go ahead and hang out with the guys." Hayley shook her head.  Doing the first thing she could think of, Hayley walked towards the kitchen.

"What'dya need sweetheart?" Claire smiled.

Hayley walked over to the woman who had become her second mother and let out a sigh, rubbing her face.  "Josh is being an idiot." A simple explanation summed the matter up.

"Sorry to break it to you sweetie, but he'll be like that the rest of his life."  She laughed, bringing Hayley into her in a tight hug as the other women of the family commented on the subject.

Hayley could only laugh.

"So what did my idiot son do this time?"

"He's just being a jerk."  Hayley sighed, realizing that this wasn't a big deal and that she just needed to vent about it.

"And you still love him?"

"Well of course I do.  He's just stupid sometimes."

"Of course he is.  He's a guy."  As Claire said this, a laugh came from the doorframe.

"Thanks guys.  I'm glad you think so highly of me."  Josh laughed a little louder.

"You have some apologizing to do, mister." One of his aunt's called this from across the counter as a few more made similar remarks.

"Yeah, I do, huh?" Josh took a step closer to the counter and Hayley.  "Hayley, darling." He said, a laugh slipping out.  He was happy to see her laugh too.  "I'm  sorry I'm a stupid jerk.  Please forgive me?" Josh jutted out his bottom lip, adding emphasis to his apology.

"Yes." Hayley said, and as he heard this he walked closer, wrapping his arms around her.

"Good.  And I'll make it up to you, I promise."

"Kiss her already!" One of his family members hollored, making Hayley and Josh both blush.  He kissed her quickly, feeling the eyes of his family on him and pulled Hayley off to another room.

"Everyone's hanging downstairs." He said over his shoulder as he pulled her behind him on the way down to the basement.

"Look at the happy couple." Zac joked.

"Oh, you heard us?" Hayley asked with a smile.

"Zac, shut up." Josh said, throwing an empty water bottle at his brother.  As it collided with a wall someone whined, saying that was their's.  Some of the younger kids were playing a board game at one end of the basement, and on the other end, the older kids had spread out pillows and blankets to sit on.  Josh lead Hayley towards that side of the room, sitting beside each other. 

"So Hayley, how are you like Jersey so far?" It was Matt who asked this.

"It's beautiful, I just wish it wasn't so cold." She explained. 

Another one of Josh's cousins cut in.  He seemed a bit older than Josh, maybe only by a year or so though.  "When I heard Josh was bringing his girlfriend, I made sure I would bring up the most embarrassing stories from our childhood."  At this, Josh groaned.  "So," his cousin began, "when we were little, probably around 5 or 6, all of us boys would play war games in Nana's backyard.  Well, one time we were in the middle of the game and Josh kept trying to get my attention, but I told him to shut up.  I told him I had to listen for the other guys.  Then all of the sudden, I look over and he peed his pants.  He was trying to tell me that he had to use the bathroom."

"Wow, good one Brett." Josh said.  "Out of all the stories you could've told, you chose that one?"  By now, Brett was laughing hysterically, Hayley right along with him.  Turning to Hayley, Josh tried to defend himself.  "I was 5.  C'mon!"

Hayley, still laughing, placed a hand on his back.  "Awe, it's okay."

"Brett, my mom already showed Hayley my baby book.  You can't do much worse." Josh said after a moment of calming down.

"Aunt Claire?" He asked laughing. 

"Yeah.  It was great!" Zac chimed in, laughing hysterically.

"Okay, Zac.  They get." Josh said, punching his brother in the arm to get him to shut up.  Hayley made a sympathetic noise and leaned further towards Josh, wrapping her arm around him.

"Will you guys play hide and seek with us?" One of the younger kids asked, standing outside the circle.

"It's probably more fun than whatever we would have thought up." Brett said, standing up.  Everyone else joined him and the first person was chosen to count, beginning the game.

Around midnight, most of the kids had fallen asleep in the basement and been woken up by their parents to head home.  It was also when Hayley and Josh decided to go to bed.  After brushing her teeth and washing her face, Hayley walked into the room she and Josh had been sharing.  She stripped off her shirt and jeans, replacing them with more comfortable leggings and a large shirt.  Josh had already climbed into bed and was on his iPhone as usual.  Hayley went to her side of the bed, sitting on her knees angled towards Josh.  She stared at him for awhile, trying to get his attention.

He finally looked over the top of his phone.  "Is there something you'd like?"

"A kiss." Hayley pouted.  Josh leaned forward, meeting Hayley half way.  She in turn moved over to sit on his torso, a leg on either side of him, her hands resting on his stomach.

"Oh, hi." Josh commented, smiling up at her.

"Hi." She smiled back.

"Planning on sleeping there?" Josh questioned, smile still present.

"No.  But I thought I'd come distract you from your phone."

"You mean like this?" Josh asked, grabbing his phone off of the nightstand where he had set it down a moment before this. 

"Josh." As Hayley whined, she reached out and grabbed the phone from his hands, placing it forcefully in its spot on the nightstand once more.

"Careful with my baby!" Josh joked.  This only earned him a half-playful scowl from Hayley.

"Second baby?" He tried. 

Hayley's hands moved up to his chest and back down to his stomach.  "That sounds better.  Unless you want to kiss you iPhone and cuddle with it instead.  Because that can be arranged."

Josh tried to save himself by kissing Hayley again.  "I love you." He pleaded.  Hayley only laughed, leaning down to kiss him one more time before rolling over to her side of the bed.  "Did it work?" He asked, a hopeful grin spreading across his face.  With yet another laugh, Hayley nuzzled her face against his shoulder.

"You got lucky this time, Farro."

As Josh finished showing Hayley the house, Nana approached them in her robe and slippers.  "Us old people are going to sleep." She announced this with a twinkle in her eye.  "Feel free to eat anything in the cupboards or fridge.  You two must be starving.  You're probably tired too, but if you want to watch some TV, you can."  She let out a tiny, content sigh.  "I think that's all I need to tell you.  Have a good night.  Love you."  With that, she wrapped them both in a hug and kissed their cheeks.  "I'm so glad you're here." She smiled as she walked away.

Hayley was smiling by now, feeling welcome.  A lot of her previoius nervousness had melted away, but that could also be because she was exhausted.  Josh spoke, pulling her out of her tired daze.  "Do you want something to eat?  I'm starving."

"Just put some of whatever you're having in a bowl.  I'm going to change real quick."

By the time Hayley came back downstairs in an old t-shirt and some flannel pants, she saw a bowl of pasta sitting across the counter where Josh was shoveling some in his face.  She gladly ate it and allowed Josh to take her bowl and put it in the sink.  There was a peaceful silence between them except for the soft buzzing of the light above their heads.  Josh spoke again, slightly startling Hayley.  "Tired?"

"Can you tell?" She joked. 

===

Hayley rested against the bed, waiting for Josh to finish brushing his teeth so she could turn out the light.  It would have been dark except for the one bedside lamp that was on.  As he came back from the hall, he shut their door and stood by the closet where their bags were.  After taking his shirt off and throwing it on the ground, he stripped off his pants and put on some of his favorite flannel pajama pants.  He crawled into bed beside Hayley, feeling her snuggle up to him in the cold weather that she wasn't quite used to.  Exhausted from their flight, they both fell asleep with ten minutes.

In the morning, Josh was the up before Hayley, and he went downstairs to help make breakfast.  Everytime Josh had ever come to his grandparents' house, they always made a big breakfast his first morning there.  They also had a large brunch on Sunday's after church.  It was something he looked forward to everytime he visited.  "Morning Nana." Josh smiled, kissing his grandmother on the cheek.  

"Good morning sweetheart.  Hayley's not up?" She was still in her robe and slippers as she mixed the pancake batter.

"She was still sleeping when I came down here." Josh explained.  He opened the fridge to grab some fruit, preparing some toppings for the pancakes.  Just as his Nana was flipping one of the last pancakes, Hayley walked down the stairs, hair in a messy ponytail and her face still looking tired.

"Oh, good morning Hayley.  You're just in time for breakfast."

With her eyes still half-closed, Hayley made her way from the staircase to the counter in the kitchen.  As she peered into the living room on her way to the kitchen, seeing that everyone else was up.

"Wow." Was the first word out of Hayley's lips.  Finally able to open her eye completely and take in her surrounding, she added on to her thought.  "This looks great."

"Nana makes the best pancakes." Josh explained as he set a few more things on the large table. 

"Well," Nana began modestly, "I don't know if they're the best, but they're pretty close."  Just as Nana flipped the last pancakes, she called for everyone to come to the kitchen.  When Zac entered he commented on Hayley's lateness.

"Wow Hayley, I thought we'd have to someone in to see if you were still breathing." He laughed at his own joke while Josh gave him a playful punch.

"Gee, thanks Zac."  Hayley laughed as she pulled out a chair beside Josh to sit down.  She hadn't even realized how hungry she was from the night before, seeing as she was more concentrated on sleeping than anything.  She gladly took two pancakes on her plate and filled them with toppings, planning on going back for more one she finished.

===

After breakfast, everyone split off to do their own thing for the day.  Josh headed upstairs to check and see if Hayley was done in the shower so he could take one.  He noticed the bathroom door was open so he peaked into their room where Hayley was putting some clothes in her suitcase.  Her hair was still wet. 

"Hey." Josh said, clearly startling her.

"Oh my gosh, Josh!" She laughed, placing a hand on her chest to emphasize her fright.

Josh laughed along.  "I was seeing if you wanted to go out into town today.  My cousin Matt wanted us to go out to lunch tomorrow with him and his girlfriend, but I thought you might like to go to a few shops."

"Yeah that sounds great." Hayley said as she began combing her hair. 

"Okay.  I'm going to go shower and then we can head out."

After Josh had finished his shower and was running the towel over his head, Hayley appeared in the mirror with a smile on her face.  "So you're taking me shopping?"

Josh laughed.  "Well-"

Hayley cut him off, the sly smile still on her face.  "I thought you hate shopping with me?"

"I do.  Trust me!" Josh defended.  "But, I thought you'd like to see some of the shops.  Plus I need to buy you something for Christmas, so I thought a sweater or something would be nice."

"A sweater?  As in only one?  Josh, I'm a girl.  I like to shop."

Josh hung his towel up with a sigh.  "We'll see.  You have to be nice to me though."

"What are you talking about?  I'm always nice to you!" Hayley said this with the smirk still on her face before walking downstairs to wait for Josh.

===

Josh pulled up to a complex of shops that formed a square.  Around the inside, there was a covered sidewalk that went by each store and a large fountain in the middle.  Around the fountain, there were picnic tables and benches, and a few concession stands.  Josh advised Hayley to bring a warm coat, knowing it would be chilly.  He turned the car off and stepped out, tucking the keys in his pocket before reaching for Hayley's hand.  "Where do you wanna go first?"

That was the question that lead them to five other stores without a break.  Lucky for Josh, Hayley had only wanted a few things.  So far she had a few new sweaters and some jeans.  Josh offered to get something to eat from one of the concession stands.  They both settled on hotdogs and hot chocolate.  One the way home, Josh pointed out some of his favorite places to Hayley, promising her he would take her before the left.  They pulled up to the driveway of the house where Josh parked the car.  Stepping out, Josh noticed his grandfather in the backyard where his shed was located.

"Papa?" Josh called out loud enough to make him turn from his spot inside the tiny building.

"Joshua, you're back." He smiled as he continued to rub sand paper over some piece of wood.  Josh approached him, Hayley trailing a few feet behind.

"It's freezing outside.  You shouldn't be outside." Josh pointed out as he approached the shed more.  He remembered when he was a kid and he would come back here in the summertime and watch his grandfather make little things.  He even let Josh help sometimes.

"The cold doesn't bother me." The old man smiled brightly.  "And I always work out here.  All year round."  He had now stopped sanding the wood, taking only a short break.  "You better get that lady of yours inside.  She looks like she's about to freeze to death out here."

Hayley blushed slightly as Josh turned around to see he shivering.  She hoped he wouldn't notice because her cheeks were already flushed a bright pink from the cold.  "Hayles, you could've gone inside." He let out one of his usual soft chuckles.  He started to walk towards her, wrapping his arms around her shoulders and rubbing her arms in an attempt to warm her up.  Turning over his shoulder to spoke on last sentence to his grandfather.  "Don't stay out to long, or I'll send Nana out after you."

"Whatever you say, J."

Hayley was grateful as they stepped into the heated house.  Nana was sipping coffee and doing the crossword puzzle in the newspaper at the counter. 

"We saw Papa out back." Josh told her as the walked into the doorway.

"The man's crazy."

"I told him if he didn't come in soon, I'd send you out after him."  At this, Nana laughed.

"How was your shopping trip?"

"Good." Hayley answered with a smile.

"Where is everyone?" Josh asked, noticing that they house was particularly quiet.

"Jon and Zac went to get some lunch.  They should be back in half an hour or so I'd guess."  Josh gave a little nod, acknowledging what his nana had said before leaving the room, Hayley following him with her hand in his.

"I'm kind of tired and didn't really have much planned the rest of the day." Josh told her as he took his coat off and hung it up in the hall closet.

"I'm with you on that one." Hayley answered, handing him her coat to hang.

"We could just hang around here.  Lay on the couch and watch a movie."

Hayley smiled again, agreeing with the proposal.  "Deal."  Josh had actually packed a few movies, knowing he'd want to watch one at least once while they were here.  He came down stairs with a movie in one hand an a few blankets draped over his arms.  He popped it in to get it started, taking the remote over to the couch, before laying down.  Hayley snuggled up to him, partially on top of him seeing as a couch didn't actually present too much room, but neither of them seemed to mind.  About half way through the movie, they were both asleep anyways.

===

Hayley was awoken by a loud ringing and buzzing.  As she angrily opened her eyes, she spotted Josh's cell phone going off on the old nightstand beside him.  Hayley gave him a shove, trying to wake him.  "Josh!" She whisper-yelled.  "Josh!" She repeated, this time in more of a whine.  She heard him make a noise and knew that he was now partially awake.  "Answer your damn phone." Her voice cracked at a few parts because of how tired she was, but Josh understood.

"Where is it?" He asked, now opening his eyes and sitting up.

"On the nightstand."  With that, Hayley flipped on to her side so her back was to Josh.  As he began talking, Hayley pulled her pillow over her ears to try to get back to sleep.  She wasn't a fan of being woken up in the middle of the night.  Eventually, the noise stopped and she released her grip on the pillow.

Josh waited for Hayley to ask who it was, and when she remained quiet, he knew she was beyond cranky.  Slipping down onto the mattress so he was no longer sitting, Josh reached over for Hayley who tried to pull away.  He wrapped his arms around her and pulled her close.  "My cousins are idiots."  He half expected Hayley to comment on this, but when she remain quite, he smiled and kissed her neck.  He heard her sigh.

"I hate you." She mumbled in an obviously irritated tone.

"I know." She could feel Josh smile against he skin.

"Why are they idiots?" She asked, humoring him.  Josh launched into his story and finally let Hayley sleep once he was done.

===

Josh parked the car and put money in the parking meter as Hayley waited beside him, her arms wrapped around herself.  She had to admit she loved the snow, even if it didn't love her.  She gratefully allowed Josh to wrap his arm around her as the walked down the street.  Following Joshes finger, she saw the restaurant he was pointing to.  It looked like a regular diner, but Josh swore it was one of the best.  Josh held the door open to let Hayley go in and he followed after her, guiding her from behind to a table where two other people were sitting beside each other.  Hayley noticed the guy who had a similar facial structure to Josh but with lighter brown hair and blue eyes.    She watched as Josh and his cousin did some sort of "bro hug" and quickly took in the appearance of the girl sitting across from her.  She had blonde hair and hazel eyes.  She was pretty but didn't seem snobby.  Hayley relaxed a bit.  She felt Josh's arm go around her once more as she took her coat off after sliding in to the booth. 

"Matt, this is Hayley." 

As he extended his hand, Hayley shook it with a smile, introducing herself and then greeted who she learned was named Heather.  The launched into a full conversation, catching up on events.  Hayley listened as Matt asked about Josh's mom.  Towards the end of the story, a waitor came to take their drink orders.  As he left, Josh began his next story, informing his cousin about his own little cancer scare.  As he spoke, Hayley became overwhelmingly protective and reached over for his hand.  She watched as he pushed up his sleeve to reveal the scar and Hayley realized how little attention she paid to it anymore.  At first it had stood out to her so much and she couldn't help but trace a finger around it's shape, but now she barely thought anything of it.

"So you two live together?" Matt asked, directing his question at both of them?  The nodded.  "Man, what's it like living with Josh?  You must really like him to deal with the twerp all day, everyday."

Hayley laughed at this.  "He definitely tests my patience sometimes."  At this, Josh made a sad face, making Hayley reach out to pat his cheek.  "But I know I annoy him sometimes too, so we're even."

"I'm really glad we made the decision though."

"Definitely." Hayley agreed.  "But our relationship was really rough during that time.  It was just..." She trailed off trying to find the right word.

"Difficult?" Josh suggested.

"Yeah.  Really difficult.  And it still is sometimes.  But it's so worth it."

The group shared stories and Hayley eventually warmed up more and really enjoyed herself.

They had been there a few hours when Josh said that they had to get back soon.  "You coming to Nana's for dinner?"

"Who's gonna be there?" Matt asked as he put some money on the table for the tip.

"Everyone." Josh said with a smirk.

Matt shrugged.  "I'll probably end up going.  Mom and Dad will probably make me take the girls anyway." Josh said goodbye to the other two, Hayley doing so after him, before the headed back out into the cold. 

As Hayley clicked her buckle into place, she turned towards Josh who was working on pulling out of his parking space.  "I didn't know we were having people over tonight?"  She said this in a tone that wasn't angry, but slightly confused.

"Whenever the whole family's in town, Nana likes to have a big dinner.  Or a few big dinners.  We'll probably have a few more at other people's houses too."

Hayley nodded, acknowledging the fact and turning up the radio.  She had only met a few of Josh's cousins before, but she knew that tonight would be full of odd games, movie-watching, and a ton of food.

Hayley came home from her last class, instantly grateful to finally be home.  She had recently caught a cold and felt miserable all day.  Josh would be home soon, and she decided to take some medicine, make herself some tea, and work on a paper she had due in a few weeks.

While the kettle was warming the water, Hayley went into the bedroom to change into some sweatpants and a loose t-shirt.  By the time she pulled her hair back, the kettle was whistling.  As she fixed her tea, she heard her phone vibrate on the countertop.

From: Josh

just left work.  i'll be home soon.  love you!

She sent him a quick reply and sat on the couch with the laptop.  She finished some research by the time Josh got home.  He came home in his black work pants and red polo that had his name embroidered on the right.

Josh kissed Hayley's head as he entered and when she responded, she heard how congested she sounded.  "Hey. I was just doing some classwork."

"You feel any better?" Josh asked this as he walked down the hallway to go to the bedroom and change out of his work clothes. 

"No." Hayley said flatly, pouting as Josh returned.

"Awe, poor little Hayley." Josh ruffled her hair in a joking manner.  "How about I make you some chicken noodle soup?"

"Seriously?" Hayley instantly perked up.

Josh smiled and headed into the kitchen area.  "Sure." He nodded, filling a pot with water to boil it for the noodles in the soup.  He made homemade soup that Hayley had had only once before, and she loved it, so she was glad he offered to make it.

After dinner was ready, Josh scooped out some for himself and Hayley and brought it into the living room, placing hers on the coffee table.  "So we need to figure out what we want to do for the holidays." Josh said this slurping on his soup.

"Well, I was thinking we'd do one with your family and one with mine." Hayley explained, savoring the comfort food in her mouth.  Blowing on the next spoonful, she continued.  "Maybe we could spend Thanksgiving with your family and Christmas with mine, that way we could each celebrate our birthday with our family."

"That'd be good.  And we could switch next year." Josh offered his ideas.  "Oh, I forgot to tell you that we were planning on going to my grandparents in New Jersey for the holidays this year.  We haven't been there in the past few years since my mom was sick."

===

The alarm went of signaling that it was time to get ready and head to the airport.  Thanksgiving was in two days and Hayley and Josh were flying up to New Jersey.  Hayley groaned at the blaring alarm, urging Josh to hit snooze by pushing his side.  "Hayley." He mumbled her name in that raspy-tired voice he had really early in the morning.  "We have to get up." His voice cracked a little as he said this.

"I'm too tired." Hayley whined.  She opened her eyes a bit, watching in the darj as Josh pushed himself up on his hands and sat up, slinging his legs over the side of the bed so his back was facing Hayley.  In the light of the alarm clock, she could make out the muscles in his bare back.  She was finally waking up a little and decided to sit up.  "Are you going to take a shower?" She questioned, clearing her throat.

"Not if you want to first." Josh offered.  Hayley shook her head, deciding to make herself some tea quickly. 

Ten minuted later, Josh approached the living room, towel around his waist and his hair in sticking out in every direction.  "I'm done if you need to shower." He informed Hayley.  She drained the last of her tea from her mug and set it in the sink before walking towards Josh.  He smiled as she approched.  Hayley could feel the heat coming off of him as she got closer yet.  "Good morning." He spoke softly, smelling of his shower gel.  As he leaned down to kiss Hayley, she smiled too.

"You smell good." She commented as she passed him to go to the bathroom.

"I guess showering pays off, huh?" He retorted with a chuckle.

===

They had gone through security and checked their luggage and were now waiting to board their flight.  They were staying in New Jersey for a week and Hayley could tell Josh was excited.  She was too, but she was nervous to meet more of Josh's family, especially out of her own environment.  She leaned on Josh and he wrapped his arm around her as they read books or listened to music.  There flight finally borded and they were on their way.  About an hour into the flight, Hayley closed the book she was reading and tucked it into the little pocket on the seat in front of her.  He adjusted herself in her seat a bit and allowed her head to rest against Josh's arm.

"Are you cold?" It was a little difficult to hear him over the engine of the plane, and Hayley's ears had popped awhile ago, but she made out what he was saying.

"A little." She admitted tucking some hair away from her face.  Josh handed Hayley his sweatshirt so she could put it on.  After slipping it over her head and taming her hair that became staticy, she returned to her spot against Josh's shoulder.  He noticed not long after that she was asleep. 

Half an hour or so later, a stewardess came by, offering snacks or drinks.  She stopped by Josh, looking at Hayley passed out beside him.  With what started out as a fake smile, she asked Josh if she could get him anything.  "Uhm," He quickly thought about whether or not he should get something.  "I better get some pretzels and a water."  As she handed him a package and a cup, he thanked her and she turned to the other side of the aisle.  Something nuzzled further into his neck, and he could feel Hayley's eyelashes fluttering against his skin.  Within a few minutes, Hayley had shifted towards the window, stretching out.  "Pretzel?" Josh held one in his hand, offering it to Hayley as he spoke with a few pretzels in his own mouth.  Laughing, Hayley excepted.

"So are we going to your mom's parent's house or your dad's?" Hayley inquired.

"My mom's.  I don't even think Grandma Ruth would let us stay in the same house."

Hayley's face suddenly fell at hearing his one grandmother's dissapproval.

Catching on to her mood, Josh spoke up.  "Oh!  No, Hayles.  It's not like that.  Grandma Ruth is like that with everyone.  Nana loves you though!"

Not a moment later, the stewardess came over the speaker to announce that they'd be landing soon.  Even with the reassurance, Hayley was still nervous.  Within twenty minutes, they were landing and everyone began to get off the plane.  Josh stepped into the aisle and grabbed their bags from the overhead compartment.  Handing it to Hayley, he began to head off the plane.  Once he got to the walkway that came off the plane, he waited for Hayley to join him so they could pick up their checked baggage and get the rental car.  It was another hour or two to the house. 

Josh shut the trunk after getting all the suitcases inside.  He went to the front of the car, jingling the keys in his hand.  Handing Hayley his phone, he spoke up.  "Babe, can you pull up Google Maps?  I have the address in there.  I think I know the way, but I just want to be sure." 

Within two hours, they were pulling up to the house.  It was about 8:00 PM and Hayley had passed out in the passanger's seat not too long ago.  Putting the car in park, Josh turned it off and put the keys in his pocket.  "Hayles." He spoke softly at first but got louder.  "Hayley.  C'mon honey, we're here." He shook her shoulder, and once he heard her make a noise, he knew she was awake.  "Come on.  We're here." He repeated.  He grabbed the bags out of the trunk and handed a few to Hayley.  Taking the rest, he closed the trunk and gestured for her to head up the sidewalk to the door.

Josh rang the doorbell, smiling as an older man answered.  Hayley instantly recognized him as Josh's grandfather.  "Hi Papa." Josh smiled, engulfing the man in a hug.

"Josh." The man chuckled deeply.  "And who's this pretty little lady?"

"You remember Hayley.  She was at my graduation party."

Another voice was added to the conversation as someone approached the older man from behind.  "Joe, move out of the way and let me see them!"  Hayley recognized this voice as well. 

Nana appeared, a large smile on her face.  "Hayley, sweetheart, it's so nice of you to join us!" She leaned in to hug Hayley, kissing her cheek.  She then took Josh in a tight hug, holding his face in her hands as she pulled back.  "You're such a handsome boy Josh.  I'm glad you found such a sweet girl."

Josh blushed.  "Nana." He laughed with a little whine in his voice.  Hayley laughed along and they stepped inside to be greeted by a few others.  Josh's parents and siblings arrived yesterday evening and were here to greet Hayley and Josh.  Some of them were staying here, and some were staying with other relatives.  Jon and Zac were staying at their Nana's with Josh and Hayley while Isy and their parents stayed at Claire's sister's house.  Nate was spending Thanksgiving with Amy's family, so he wouldn't be here this year.  Josh took Hayley bags  up to their room quickly while she said hello to the others.

Josh was grateful that his Nana was letting him and Hayley stay in the same room.  He remembered how she'd explained it to them  "I assume that since you are able to live together, you should be responsable enough to stay together at my house.  But oh so help me Joshua, if I think anything is happening, you will sleep on different floors of the house."

Josh smiled to himself as he headed downstairs.  He was just excited to be back in his hometown.  And he was even more excited to share it with Hayley.

Rated T?  A few more chapters I have in mind for this fic.  Thanks to those of you who comment :)

Hayley felt herself waking up, and she could tell that she was going to fall back asleep anyways, which was okay because it was Saturday and neither she nor Josh had to work.  She snuggled closer to the warmth beside her and tried to fall back to sleep.  She was just about to doze off when she felt two lips press themselves into her hair.

"Happy Annivarsary." A tired, raspy voice said from above her.  She could hear the smile in their voice.

Josh wrapped his arms around Hayley, loving the feeling of her body curled up against his.  He barely heard her answer because her voice was so soft.  "Happy Anniversary."  She was smiling, and he didn't need to look down to see it.

"I think that deserves a kiss." Josh stated, now more awake.

Hayley groaned.  "Let me sleep for thirty more minutes.  Then you can get a kiss."

"I don't really like that deal." Josh told her, half joking.

"Too bad." Hayley grumbled.

"I'll keep talking to you until you-" Josh was cut off by two soft lips meeting his. 

"Now shut up." Hayley chuckled, nuzzling her head against his chest.

===

To celebrate their anniversary, Josh was taking Hayley to one of the fanciest restaurants in Nashville.  She gave him a new CD and a movie he wanted and told him that the rest of his present was coming for his birthday.  Hayley slipped on a medium blue dress that hugged her body.  She had paired it with black tights and a pair of black heels.  She even curled her hair.  Her make-up was smokey and her red lips pulled everthing together.  This she knew the moment she showed Josh.

"Wow!" Was all he said as he slipped his wallet into his dress pants.  He had on a light blue button down and a tie.  He doesn't look too bad himself. Hayley thought to herself.  She watched as Josh walked towards her, a smile on his face.  "You look..." He paused, thinking of an adjective that could even remotely describe the gorgeous girl in front of him.  "You're beautiful, baby." Josh leaned down to capture her lips.  Grabbing his keys off the kitchen counter, they headed out to dinner. 

As they were seated, both of them ordered their drinks and waited for the waitress to bring them their basket of rolls.  The waitress soon returned, and Josh and Hayley placed their dinner orders.  "How's your dinner?" Josh asked, wiping his mouth with his linen napkin. 

"It's amazing, but I don't think I can finish it all." Hayley admitted.  She was also eyeing up some chocolate cake she'd seen a waiter carry off to another table nearby.  As Hayley put her fork down between bites, she saw Josh reach his hand across the table to hold hers.  As he grasped it, he brough his head down to press his lips against her knuckles.  The waitress came back to ask if they wanted coffee or dessert and told them she'd be back with their check.  Hayley convinced Josh to share the chocolate cake with her.  When it arrived, her eyes widened in glee.  They took turns down to the last bite, when Hayley stared at Josh, as if daring him to take it from her.  She almost burst out laughing and jumped across the table to fight for it once he scooped it up on his fork.  She stuck her bottom lip out in protest, but her mood lighten when Josh turned the fork her way and offered her some of the last bite.  As her moved to fork  towards he mouth, he watched as she bite half of it off and scraped it off with her lips, licking the remaining chocolate off of them.  He then took the last bit and placed to fork on the plate.  The waitress returned with his credit card and wished them a good evening. 

===

Josh kicked the door closed behind them, not allowing his lips to part from Hayley.  As he reached out to lock the door, his lips slid down her neck.  "Babe." Hayley sighed, speaking for the first time since she got out of the car.  Josh pulled away, not wanting to push her into anything, but she just smiled and continued to kiss him.  She grabbed a handful of his shirt and pulled him towards their bedroom, quickly lifting his shirt over his head.  She tried rapidly to roll off her black tights.

"I probably shouldn't have work such tight clothes." She panted as Josh continued to kiss her collarbone.

"No, it's okay." He smirked.  Before she knew it, Josh was hovering over her, pulling away for the first time in awhile.  He looked at her seriously, as if he was searching for something in her exspression.  "Are you sure about this?"

"Yes." Hayley answered quickly.

"If not, we can-"

She took his face in her hands, making him look at her.  "I'm sure, Josh." With that she kissed him, trying to show him how possitive she was in her decision.

===

Hayley awoke early the next morning.  Groggily, she sat up and looked around the room, remembering what had happened the night before.  She pulled the white comforter closer to her body and turned onto her stomach, cuddling up to Josh.  She couldn't get over how good his skin felt against hers.  As she rubbed her hand over his chest, he began to stir, signaling that he was awake.  "Hey."  She could tell that he meant for his voice to be louder, but seeing as he had just woken up it came out as a raspy whisper.

Hayley had a stupid grin on her face as she greeted him.  "Hey."  She felt him pull her closer before he kissed her forehead.  As he stroked her hair, he spoke a little louder.

"I love you so much, Hayley."  He paused to kiss her temple.  "I'm so in love with you."  When he felt something wet against his chest, he instantly became worried.  Holding her face so that she'd look at him, he questioned what was wrong.

"Hayles, what'd wrong?  Is it something I did?"  She shook her head, wiping at her eyes.

Taking in a shakey breath, she answered his questions.  "Nothing's wrong.  And you didn't do anything.  I'm just happy." She laughed, tears still rimming her eyes.

"What a girl." Josh joked, not able to stop his laugh that boomed throughout his chest.

"I guess it's a good thing we waited to do this until after your sisters left." Josh said, laughing a little more.

Hayley's eyes widened and she pushed her self up a little bit.  "Oh my God, Josh!  That's terrible!"  She reached behind her and grabbed her pillow, smacking him with it.

"Girls?" Josh asked, distracted by his schoolwork.

"Don't tell me you forgot." Hayley said, finally looking up.  "My sisters are coming to stay the night tonight.  I told you about it last week."

"Oh, right sorry."  Josh shook his head before taking a big sip of coffee.  "I can make chicken parmesan.  That's pretty kid-friendly."

"Okay.  So my last class ends at 3:30.  I was thinking of picking the girls up after that.  What are your classes like today?"

Josh thought for a moment before responding.  "I have to open the restaurant this morning, but after that I have my classes.  The last one ends at 3:00.  We could both pick up the girls and then swing by the grocery store to get what we need to make dinner.  How's that sound?" Josh asked as he walked to the kitchen sink to place his empty cereal bowl.

"Perfect." Hayley placed a hand on Josh's face as she kissed his cheek.

===

"I'm really excited." Hayley said, her hands gripping her knees as she bounced in the passanger's seat.  "I feel like I haven't seen them in years."

Josh reached a hand out to rub Hayley's shoulder, laughing at her excitement.  A few minutes later, he pulled into the driveway to the house he'd been to a thousand times.  He watched Hayley eagerly walk to the door, knocking a few times before opening it.  "We're here!" Josh could  hear her holler as he shut the door behind him.

"Hayley?" Her mom called out like she always did, even thought it was obvious who it was.  "I'll be right there!"  Her mom came down the stairs smiling.  She took Hayley in a hug first, kissing the side of her head and calling out questions so fast that Hayley had no time to answer them.  She then interupted one of Hayley's attepted answers in order to hug Josh.  "Girls, c'mon!" 

Josh could hear mumbling from upstairs, signaling that the girls were most likely packing, or Erica was packing for the both of them, seeing as McKayla was only four, almost five, yeard old.  As the girls came downstairs, they both noticed Hayley, running towards her once they reached the foot of the stairs.  Hayley wrapped her arms around them as best she could and laughed as McKayla hugged Josh as well.  The little girl had a very obvious, yet adorable, crush on her older sister's boyfriend.  "Okay, you girls be good.  Don't give Hayley and Josh too much trouble." Hayley's mom smirked as she kissed the top of her daughter's head, including Hayley, before saying a final goodbye.  McKayla had insisted on Hayley holding her while they went to the car and Josh strapped her carseat in.  With everyone in, they headed off to the grocery store.

As they stepped through the automatic doors, Josh pulled a cart towards himself and pushed around.  Hayley spoke to her youngest sister.  "McKayla, you can either hold someone's hand or sit in the cart.  What do you want to do?"

Hayley watched McKayla think for a little bit.  "Uhm...probably sit in the cart." The little girl nodded her head, confirming her decision.  Hayley lifted her up and set her in the cart before she allowed Josh to continue through the store.

The pulled into an aisle full of pasta and sauces.  As Josh examined a couple of the boxes, Hayley spoke up.  "Don't we have some at the apartment?"

"I don't know.  I didn't check."

"You didn't check before we left?" Hayley asked.

"No.  I was doing some work for a few of my classes.  We can just buy this and if we have some at home, then we can use that stuff up and save this for another time.  It's no big deal."

Hayley sighed, feeling like Josh just couldn't see the big picture here.  "But why should we spend money on something we don't need?"  As she said this, Josh placed two boxes of pasta in the cart.

"We'll need it eventually.  And you," He paused to poke Hayley's chest, "need to chill out.  Just relax."

"Josh-" Hayley began to sigh, but was cut off.  Josh walked over and picked her up at the waist so she was hanging over his shoulder.

Almost instantly, he felt her laughing.  "So," He began, "are you going to calm down or do I need to carry you around the store like this?"

"I'll calm down!  Please!" Hayley was still laughing but kicking her legs to get Josh to put her down.  She noticed Erica and McKayla laughing and she shot them both a joking glare.

The traveled around the grocery store to get all the ingredients for dinner, along with a carton of ice cream.  After checking out, they finally headed back to the apartment to begin dinner.  Josh began cooking the pasta and took out frozen tomato sauce that they had left over from the last time they ate spaghetti.  While he was cooking, the girls watched television and chatted in the living room. 

===

After dinner, they all played Monopoly, which of course took a few hours.  Hayley then convinced the girls to get ready for bed around 10:00 and she could clearly see that McKayla was exhausted.  She made sure McKayla brushed her teeth and went to the bathroom before bed and when she was laying on the sofa bed, she kissed her baby sisters goodnight.  "If you need anything, we're just down the hall." Hayley explained one final time before heading to her bedroom.  She changed into a pair of shorts and an old shirt, and washed her face and brushed her teeth before climbing into bed beside Josh.

"HayHay?" A tiny voice broke though Hayley's slumber.  The voice repeated itself a few times and then Hayley felt a tiny hand attempting to shove her arm.  Blinking her eyes open, she say McKayla standing beside her bed.

"McKayla?  Sweetie what's wrong?" Hayley instantly became concerned and tried to sit up.

The little girl stood staring at her big sister for a minute.  "I had a bad dream." Her disheveled hair and sleepy appearence only seemed to make her even cuter.

She didn't even have to ask.  Hayley knew that she wanted to sleep with her.  The conversation must've been loud enough to wake Josh because Hayley heard his groggy voice asking what was wrong.  She turned towards him to explain that McKayla had had a bad dream.  Trying to stay awake, Josh simply patted the spot beside him on the bed, as if to signal for Hayley to let McKayla sleep between them.  "C'mon McKayla."  Hayley reached down to pick up her sister before letting her get settled into the bed.  She felt the little girl snuggle up to her and instantly smiled.  She kissed McKayla's head and told her one last "goodnight". 

===

Hayley woke up around 8:00 to find that everyone else was still sleeping, as they should be.  Feeling a craving for a cup of tea, she slowly wiggled her way out of bed, remembering that McKayla had come in to sleep with them.  She decided that she should make some coffee for Josh as well as the tea for herself, so she hung around the kitchen until the coffee maker was done.  She poured a mug full of coffee and brought it into the bedroom, setting it on the table beside Josh's side of the bed.  Her movements woke him long enough for him to get a good whiff of coffee and see her beside him.  "Morning." His voice cracked with grogginess.

"Morning." Hayley whispered, pushing his hair back to try to tame it.

"Thanks." He said as he picked up his mug and took a long sip.

"Hey, it's the least I could do." Hayley gestured to the lump under the covers beside him.

"McKayla?  That was no big deal." Josh shook it off.

"Yes it was.  You're seriously the best." Hayley leaned over to kiss Josh's lips for a moment before pulling away.

Full of himself, Josh folded his arms behind his head and answered in a cocky tone.  "Yeah, I know."  He watched Hayley laugh at his actions.  That was the best feeling to him, making the love of his life laugh like no one else could.  Even if it meant that there would be fighting between moments like these.

"Damn it, Josh!" It followed the same shriek he'd heard over the past weeks. 

A moment later, the toilet flushed, the sink ran water, and an angry Hayley stood with her hands on her hips off to the side of the television.

"You okay?" Josh asked, trying to focus on the game.

"Josh, is it really that hard to put the seat down after you take a piss?"

"Well if I have to put the seat down, you should put it up when you're done." Josh joked lightly, seeing quickly that he should have kept his mouth shut.  He could have sworn he'd seen smoke coming out of her ears.  "C'mon Hayles.  I'm just trying to make you laugh.  I know I've messed up a lot lately, but I'm really trying.  I'm sorry, okay?  I'll try harder next time."

"Yeah, next time." Hayley mumbled angrily, her hands still on her hips.  She stomped off to the bathroom once more, this time to brush her teeth.  When she went to grab the toothpaste, she noticed that Josh had remembered to screw the cap back on, making her feel kind of guilty for yelling at him.  Exiting the bathroom, she walked towards the back of the couch, wrapping her arms around Josh's shoudlers from behind and bending over to kiss his cheek.  "I'm sorry, babe."  She watched as Josh reached his arm out to pat the spot beside him.  

"Sit down." He said it like an order, but it was in a soft tone.  Hayley sat down and layed across the couch so her head was against Josh.  "I can't say I blame you for getting angry.  I don't think I'd be thrilled if I fell in the toilet....multiple times."  This made Hayley laugh.  "See, that's what I love to hear." Josh smiled, kissing the top of Hayley's head.  There was a moment of silence as the two watched the funny but stupid commercials.

Hayley spoke first, readjusting herself against Josh.  "So how's Tennessee doing?"

Josh smiled a smile that was bursting with pride.  "They weren't doing so hot at first, but now, their beating Alabama into the ground."  

Hayley couldn't help but smile as the way Josh spoke about his favorite team.  "I'm kind of surprised you're not wearing your 'lucky' Tennessee boxers."

"I gotta save those for the big game." Josh said, referring to the game against Kentucky.  Kentucky and Tennessee were big rivals and that would mean a big party to attend at the Farro household.

"I can't wait." Hayley laughed.

Josh laughed along, allowing Hayley to feel the vibrations coming from his chest.  "We'll have to get you some Tennessee gear. Or you could borrow some of mine." Josh smiled.

===

Classes had finally started for Josh and Hayley and they were finally settling into some kind of routine.  Hayley's classes were pretty early in the morning, while Josh had most in the morning but a few later in the evening, depending on the day.  Hayley's alarm would go off and she'd take a shower before getting ready.  She'd get back from classes a few hours before dinner and wait for Josh to get back while trying to tackle some classwork.  Once Josh got home, they'd make dinner, do classwork, and go to bed.  They were both working part-time at the restaurant and their lives had been pretty busy lately. 

That specific night, Josh was studying at the student library with a couple people from on of his classes while Hayley finished her last class of the day.  On her way to the library to meet Josh to go home, Hayley decided to treat Josh with a cup of coffee.  Once she purchased the beverages, she headed towards the library.  She had to search for a few minutes to find Josh and the group towards the back of the library at a round table.

As she approached, she saw one of the girls talking to Josh and touching his arm. 

"You must work out because you have really nice muscles."  She commented.  "How do you find time to work out?" A giggle slipped past the girls lips.  Let's just say this didn't make Hayley happy.

She set the steaming cup in front of Josh, causing him to turn around and find the source from which it came.  "Hey sweetheart." Josh grinned. 

Did he have to smile at me like that?  I'm trying so hard to be mad at him and the he goes and gives me that look.  Hayley thought to herself.  When Josh went to kiss her, of course she didn't give away that she was angry just yet.  That would have to wait until they got home.

"We're just about finished here." Josh explained, leaning back in his seat.  "Well, I'll see you guys tomorrow." He excused himself and grabbed his backpack, gathering his books inside.

===

As soon as Josh shut the door to the apartment and began his mission to find out what was bothering Hayley.  "What, so your mad at me for studying with a few friends?"

Hayey let out an angry chuckle.  "You don't get it at all, do you?"

Josh basically ignored Hayley's comment and went on with his previous thought.  "Am I not allowed to be away for that long?  Do I need to spend all my free time in the apartment?"

"I can't believe you." Hayley said in a tone so angry she almost sounded like she was laughing.  Somehow, this shut Josh up.

"I'm mad because that chick was flirting with you!  Don't even try to deny it either, Josh, because it was so blatantly obvious.  You're allowed to do whatever the hell you please during your free time."

At this, Josh walked over and wrapped his arms around Hayley's waist, even though her arms remained folded over her chest.  "Well it doesn't matter because I don't love that chick.  I love this chick."  He leaned over to kiss her lips.  When he got no response, he moved to her neck, feeling goosebumps rise at the touch of his lips.

Hayley let out a loud, frustrated sigh.  "I don't think I'll ever not be jealous."

"You have nothing to worry about.  Okay?  I love you, Hayles."

With a final sigh, one that expressed the defeat she felt, she gave in.  "I know."

===

A few weeks later, Hayley had planned to have a few people from one of her classes over to the apartment to study.  She had discussed it with Josh and he thought it'd be a good idea to help her get over her jealousy.

Hayley set out a bowl full of chips in the center of the living room where they'd be studying.  Unfortunately, the air conditioner had recently broken and it was an unusually hot fall day in Franklin.  Hayley pulled out some short, cotton shorts and a University t-shirt.  She even plugged in a few fans to try to cool off the apartment.  A knock at the door signaled the arrival of one of her friends. 

Withing twenty minutes, the other three people had arrived.  For an hour or two they got into the subject, really trying to absorb the materials they would need most.  But after an hour or two, it seemed that the whole concept of concentration was lost.  Before she knew what was happening, one of the girls pulled a few bottles of beer out of her bag.  And then one of the guys pulled out a pack of cigarettes and a small baggie full of something green.  Hayley instantly recognized it.  Trying to form a sentence, thoughts raced through her head. 

Josh would be home from work any moment.  But he was stopping to pick up some dinner.  Maybe she'd have time to stop this whole fiasco.  "Whoa, you guys.  You can't use that." Hayley pointed at the bag.

"Oh come on.  Loosen up." One guy lit a cigarette, taking a long drag before letting the smoke out. 

"And that," Hayley pointed at the beer bottles.  "No.  All of this has to go."

Suddenly, the group was laughing at her.  "You need to learn to relax, Red." The other guy called.

Snapping her head towards the door, Hayley heard the lock on the door turning.  She watched in what seemed like slow motion as Josh entered the apartment.  "Hey babe-" He began to speak but quickly stopped as he glanced into the living room.  "What the hell?"

"I told them they-" Before Hayley could even begin to explain, Josh was barking orders.

"Get this shit out of my apartment!"  The group of four slowly got to their feet, seeing that these people were too uptight for them.  Once the door closed behind the last person, Josh turned to Hayley who was sitting sheepishly on the living room floor.  She hadn't moved yet.  "So this is your plan to get back at me?"

"Josh, I swear I had not idea that any of this was going to happen.  We were studying up until a little bit ago and suddenly, they all were pulling things out of their bags."  Hayley felt tears burning her eyes.  She was scared of not getting Josh's forgivness.  "I tried to get them to leave, but the wouldn't.  They told me to loosen up, but I swear I didn't touch any of that stuff."  By now she was sobbing, still scared of Josh's reaction.  He walked over slowly, sitting beside her and pulling his knees up in front of him.  He slid an arm around of Hayley's back.

"I believe you."

"You do?" She choked out.

"Of course.  But I can't say I'm too thrilled about you dressing like this when two boys are coming over.  But for me, I like it."  He smiled, trying to lighten the mood. 

"Look, those people are idiots.  Let's just forget about it."  He paused.  "But first I need to air this apartment out and make some dinner.  I'm starving."

Hayley watched as he opened up a window, her legs pulled tightly to her chest.  "Josh?" Her voice was hoarse from crying.

"Hm?" He turned from the window.

"Can you just hug me real quick?" The look in her eyes told Josh that she needed it.  Not that he would have declined the offer anyways. 

Hopefully this was just another step in the right direction.

Hayley nodded, smiling.  "So this is a pretty important convention?"

"I guess you could say that.  It's important to my dad too."  Hearing this brought a thought to Hayley, but she stayed quiet for a bit.  Finally, she got up the nerve to speak.

"Is this what you want?"

"What?" Josh asked in an obviously confused tone.

"The business thing.  Is it what you want?"

Josh stopped as if he were thinking about it.  "Yeah." He nodded.  "I really like business.  It's just that sometimes it's not what I think I want to do for my entire life.  But it makes money.  That's all that matters, right?"  At this, Hayley patted the spot on the bed beside her. 

Once Josh sat down, she spoke again.  "I think what matters is that you're doing what you love.  Not what makes the most money."  Suddenly, their conversation was brought to a halt when Mr. Farro called upstairs.

"Josh, we need to leave now if we want to get there early."  It was still early in the day, but the convention would last most of the day, if not all of it.  Josh swiftly kissed Hayley's forehead before leaving the room.

===

Hayley spent the day with Claire and Isabelle while Zac and Jon stayed at the beach house.  The girls went into town and shopped at a few of the store, grabbing lunch at a cafe.  Hayley bought two things.  They didn't cost too much, but she was really happy with her purchase.  By dinner time, Josh and his father were still at the convention and hadn't showed any sign of being home soon, so Claire started dinner for the five people that were home.  Afterwards, everyone split off, Hayley heading up to her room to relax and listen to some music. 

Because she was so into the music, she hadn't even noticed Josh when he got home.  It wasn't until he was standing over her with a chuckle that she realized he was home.  He looked exhausted.  As she thought this, he held out a Starbucks cup for Hayley who easily agreed.  She took a sip and set the cup on the nightstand, placing a book under it. 

Josh gestured for Hayley to scoot over a bit as he crawled next to her, allowing her to rest her head on his chest as their legs intertwined.  He'd been waiting all day for something like this.  Just to be next to her.  As he felt her her fingers running up and down his back, he knew it wouldn't be long before he fell asleep.

Both Hayley and Josh had fallen asleep, and an hour later, Hayley felt herself waking up.  She and Josh were still wrapped around together.  Reaching her hand over, she began raking her fingers up and down Josh's back as she had before the fell asleep.  At this, Josh nuzzled his face closer to Hayley's head and she felt him kiss her hair.  "I didn't mean to wake you." Hayley said softly, her voice breaking out in some places because of lack of use. 

Josh made a little noise as if her were trying to wake up.  "Don't worry about it babe."

"I bought some things earlier.  I think you'll like them."

"Oh really?" Josh asked, propping himself on his elbows while Hayley sat up and reached over the side of her bed.  She pulled up a plastic bag that crinkled with ever movement.  Out of it, she pulled two things wrapped in paper so they wouldn't break.  She carefully unwrapped them and set them on the bed in front of Josh. 

"You bought mugs?" Josh asked in a less-than-thrilled tone.  Staring down at the mugs, white with a beach painted on them, her face flushed a little. 

"Their for our apartment.  It's kind of my way of saying I'm in.  That I'm as dedicated to this as you are."  It was silent for a moment, causing Hayley to impatiently play with her hands.

Her hair was being pushed out of her face and a kiss was suddenly placed on her lips.  "Babe these are perfect!" Josh's grin showed her what he genuinely thought of the gift.  A wave of relief washed over her.  She hadn't even realized exactly how nervous it made her, but she knew this was pushing them towards the next stage in their relationship.

===

After they got back to Franklin, Hayley really began to move her things to the apartment.  She had started to bring a few things over throughout the summer, but this time she was there almost everyday. 

"I think this is the last box, Mom.  If I end up finding that I forgot something, I'll swing by to pick it up."

Hayley's mom dried her hands on a dish towel before walking over to her daughter.  "Hayley, just remember our compromise."  With that, she pressed a small, round container into Hayley's hand.

With a sigh, Hayley slipped the container into her bag on her shoulder, juggling the box in her arms.  "Sure mom."

"I love you honey."

"Love you too.  I'll call you soon."  With that, Hayley hugged her sisters and headed out the door to Josh's truck where he was waiting.  She peered into her bag seeing the compact-shaped container that held the birth control her mother gave her.  That was their compromise.  As long as Hayley and Josh were living together, she was to take it, and take it correctly.  Her mother was very strict on that.

"Is that everything?" Josh asked, pulling her from her thoughts. 

Hayley nodded.  "Yeah.  I think so."  With that thy drove off to the apartment.  After Josh got his cancer removed, they were short a little money.  He had already planned on taking out loans for school and was now taking out an even bigger loan for the apartment than he planned.  Luckily, his distant family had given him money and even some pieces of furniture, making it a lot cheaper to furnish their new home.

About twenty minutes later Josh called out a "We're here." And helped Hayley with her box.  She set it by their hand-me-down couch before standing with her hands on her hips, taking in the area.  It was a one bedroom apartment with a bathroom and combined kitchen and living room.  It wasn't huge, but it was big enough. 

"I think I'll get ready for bed." Hayley announced, walking towards the bedroom.  There was a closet and two dressers, leaving room for a television and a bed.  Both she and Josh got ready before slipping under the comforter.  With another sigh, Hayley rolled onto her stomach, snuggling against Josh.  He was the first one to break the silence.

"Welcome home."

"Welcome home." Hayley smiled, liking the sound of it coming off her own tongue.

did not proof-read as usual :P

"We thought we'd have to come up and make sure you were still breathing!" Zac laughed, shoveling pancakes into his mouth.

"I made some pancakes, but if you'd prefer something else, I'd be happy to make something for you."  Hayley smiled as Claire spoke.  She'd been so motherly to Hayley since she got sick.

"No, these look great!" Hayley announced, joining the table and taking two pancakes off the stack on a large plate in the middle.

===

Everyone was sitting around the living room after breakfast, watching TV, checking e-mails, and just relaxing.  Jon was the first to express any plans.  "I'm heading down to the beach, okay Mom?"

"I wanna go too!" Isabelle expressed.

"No way twerp.  I'm not babysitting you."

"Jonathon." Their mother admonished him.

"I guess I'll go." Zac cut in.

"I'd actually like to go too." Hayley said, wanting to finally experience what she'd missed the other day.

"Are you sure Hayles?" Josh spoke from a chair a few feet away.

"Yeah.  I feel fine." As she reassured Josh, everyone began walking off to change into their bathing suits.  Hayley and Isabelle took turns in their room and the guys were already on the beach by the time they were done.

"If you say that the water's cold, I'll throw you in." Josh smirked at Hayley.

"It's not my fault that the water's always cold." Hayley pouted jokingly. 

"I'm not taking back what I said." Josh shook his head, running towards the water.  Hayley took her time in the sand, enjoying the warm grains that formed to her feet beneath her.  By the time she reached the water's edge, Josh popped out, dripping from head to toe.  Before she realized what was happening, he came running towards her, throwing her arms around her in a big hug.

"Josh!" Hayley shrieked, feeling the cool water on her once dry skin.

He pulled away laughing.  "Zac, you owe me ten bucks!" Josh called, laughing harder.  He turned his attention to Hayley.  "He said that you'd hit me.  I said you'd yell.  I win."

"You use me to make money?" Hayley laughed.

Josh put his hands on the small of Hayley's back.  "C'mon!  Everyone else is in the water.

"I'll go in.  I swear!" Hayley pleaded, but Josh obviously didn't believe her.  His hands wrapped around her sides, beginning to lift her into the air.  "Josh, I swear.  I'll go in right now!" She tried again successfully.  As he let go, she held her hand out to him.  "But you have to come with me." She said, giving him a look that she knew he wouldn't be able to deny.  He accepted her hand and they ran into the water.

===

Hayley leaned over the sink in the bathroom at the beach house, applying eyeliner to her lower eyelid.  Her hair was still damp from her shower, but she decided to let it air dry.  As she put the cap on her eyeliner, she saw someone standing in the doorway out of the corner of her eye.

"Boo." Josh smirked.  She noticed his khaki shorts and button down shirt, rolled up at the sleaves.  Hayley smiled, walking towards him and bringing her hands up to fix his collar.  She folded her hands behind his head once the collar was creased neatly.  "Are you ready?"  Hayley nodded, pecking Josh's lips before breaking apart.  Josh was taking her out to dinner, wanting to spend time with her because he'd be at the conference the entire next day.  They decided to walk to the restaurant seeing as it was only a few blocks away.  They were seated right away and were left alone to decide on their orders.  It was funny to be on the other side of the ordering for once.  After their dinners, Josh ordered a slice of cake to share with Hayley.  

===

Dinner was finished and Josh put down the money for the check.  "Wanna take a walk?" Josh asked as he guided Hayley out of the now-busy restaurant.  His hand rested on the small of her back, even after they were outside, approaching the beach.  As they reached the water's edge, Hayley stopped suddenly, bending down to slip off her flip flops and hold them in the hand that wasn't wrapped around Josh's waist.  Josh did the same, and once they were both barefoot, they began to walk through the sand.  For the next couple minutes, they talked and joked until they made it back to the beach house.  There was music coming from inside the house.  Outside, it sounded soft, faint.  It was a slow tune, something older.  Curious, Josh and Hayley approached the house, seeing Josh's parents dancing around the living room, the couch pushed out off the way.  With a smile, he turned from the house and faced Hayley.

"They used to do this all the time.  They haven't danced in awhile though.  Not since my mom was diagnosed." Josh's soft smile made Hayley feel special, like she knew more about him than anyone else.  "I used to think it was kind of gross.  You know, like when you walk into the room and you see your parents kissing?"  A moment after he spoke, Josh's face fell.  Realizing what he said, he hurried to cover it up.  "Hayley, I'm sorry.  I didn't mean to-"

"It's fine Josh.  I never really saw my parents kiss.  I think it happened once.  And I was really little."  It was quiet between them for awhile as they turned to watch the couple dancing inside.  Finally, Josh reached out a hand.  

"Dance with me."  Hayley began to protest, but Josh just stared at her, his eyes practically begging her.  She wrapped her fingers around his, feeling him pull her against his chest.  Their hands were clasped on one side, while her other arms wrapped up his back and his rested towards the lower portion of her back.  He rubbed his hand on her back, happy when he felt her relax and rest her chin on his shoulder.  "I want to be like them.  Be so in love, even after you've known the person for so long."  

Hayley focused on the feeling of her toes moving in the sand and they way Josh rubber he back to the beat of the song.  "Me too." She agreed.  Josh reached down and hooked his finger under her chin in order to give her a kiss.  It wasn't short, but it wasn't sloppy.  It was perfect.