An Overlooked Flaw.

Part 1


Quinn poured over her notes and spreadsheets that were stretched out on the lunchroom table and made changes as Tiffany and Stacy suggested them.

“So a complete dating system that rates every possible quality into a ranking system.” Sandi said approvingly.

“I think I covered everything. The guy asks us out and we get the needed information and it gives us a number. If an eight asks us out then we dump the 7 and go with the higher ranked person.” Quinn said proudly.

“We have to stick to it. It doesn’t do any good to have a solid system if we don’t follow it perfectly.” Sandi mused.

“I’m going to follow it.” Quinn assured her.

The former fashion club didn’t notice a newcomer approach the table until she cleared her throat. She had long dark brown hair and seemed to be perfectly built.

“Yes.” Sandi said arrogantly.

“Hi, Danielle Todds. Everyone calls me Danny. I wanted to talk to you.” She said looking at Quinn with a smile.

“What can I do for you?” Quinn said nicely.

“Can we talk alone for a second?” Danny asked.

“I’m going to tell them anything you say so go ahead.” Quinn smiled sweetly.

“Fine. I was wondering if you wanted to go out to dinner this Friday… with me.” Danny asked looking as far from joking as possible.

“Excuse me.” Sandi said looking offended.

Quinn who was used to being asked out by both sexes was about to say something and then a light went off in her head.

“Well I don’t go out with just anyone. I have a system.” Quinn said politely.

“Oook. So how does the system work?” Danny said pulling out a chair and sitting down across from Quinn.

“We get information and rate the asker and the chances of acceptance are based off the score a person gets.” Stacy answered quickly.

“That’s weird but ok. What do you need to know?” Danny asked with a chuckle.

“You’re a girl.” Sandi announced.

“I think it’s the perfect chance to test the system for all possibilities. We all know Stacy has tendency’s in that direction.” Quinn dismissed Sandi’s concerns.

Stacy just blushed.

“What kind of car do you drive?” Sandi asked.

“2007 Mustang. With a satellite radio setup.” Danny answered at once.

“What …do …your …parents …do?” Tiffany continued the questions.

“My grandfather was some kind of business mogul so dad inherited a fortune so not much.” Danny shrugged.

The questions went on for another 20 minutes.

“Ok that looks like everything. Stacy would you agree that she’s attractive?” Quinn said nicely and Stacy nodded.

Danny laughed.

“Give us just a minute.” Quinn asked nicely.

The four girls quickly went over the numbers and suddenly Sandi blurted out.
“No way.”

“I’ll go over the numbers again.” Quinn said quickly and she did so.

“But …she’s …a …girl!” Tiffany said shocked.

“Even if we give her a penalty for that she’s still getting a high rank.” Stacy said happily.

“How high?” Danny laughed.

“9” Quinn said looking surprised.

“But not even Mack is a solid nine.” Sandi gasped.

“So about Friday night I was thinking Dinner at that French place in town and then maybe a movie and end the night with some dancing at Under the Stars.” Danny smiled.

Quinn looked at the numbers then at her friends.

“What time did you want to pick me up?” Quinn said not believing the words that came out of her own mouth.

“Is 7 ok?” Danny asked looking pleased.

“Perfect.” Quinn answered.

: Did I just make a date with a hot girl?: Quinn thought as Danny left after getting Quinn’s address.
: Did I just think of her as hot?:

“That was really brave Quinn.” Stacy said looking at her with wide brown eyes.

“I think it shows courage to stick with a system even when it shows serious flaws.” Sandi said clearly upset.

“What … if … she … wants … a … goodnight … kiss?” Tiffany asked looking shocked.

The three girls all turned and looked at Quinn.

: Damn.: “She’s got the same chance of that as a guy.” Quinn answered.






Friday Quinn was getting ready for her date when her mother came into her room.

“Quinn what are you doing?” Helen demanded.

“Getting ready for my date.” Quinn said as she tried on another pair of earrings.

“I told you last week, no dates today. We’re going to a dinner party with the partners.” Helen scolded her.

“I forgot and it’s to late to cancel on Danny now.” Quinn shrugged.

“We’ll just tell him that you have other plans when he gets here.” Helen said and walked out of the room.

“Wait mom no.” Quinn said chasing after her mother.

“I can’t cancel on Danny. If I do Danny will think it’s because of another reason.” Quinn said as she followed her mother into the living room.

“To bad, what reason could there be.” Helen dismissed.

“Danny is different than my other dates.” Quinn started.

“Really different.” Daria smirked and headed up the stairs with her book.

“What are you talking about?” Helen sighed.

“Lets just say that Quinn has never dated someone like Danny before and everyone will think she broke off the date because of that difference including Danny and it will be crushing blow.” Daria said as she walked up the stairs.

“Mom please!” Quinn pleaded. “Daria’s right.”

“I don’t know.” Helen said looking curious.

“Please, I'll cancel my dates for the next week. Danny will be here any minute.” Quinn offered.

The doorbell rang almost on demand.

“I’ll get it.” Jake said.

“Please mom.” Quinn begged now.

“Fine.” Helen sighed.

Quinn looked relieved and then realized her father was opening the door.

“Daddy don’t freak.” Quinn called out as the door swung open.

“Hi I’m Danny, I’m here to pick up Quinn.” Danny said with a smile.

Jake froze and then turned. “Quinn your date is here.” He said weakly.

“Thank you Daddy.” Quinn said and she pecked him on the cheek and dashed out the door quickly.

“She went through with it.” Daria said in disbelief from the top of the stairs..

“What do you know about this?” Helen demanded. “You may not live here anymore but you still visit every time you need laundry done so talk.”

“Hey Danny drives one of those new Mustangs, that’s cool.” Jake said from the window.

“Jake!” Helen gasped.

“All I know is that Quinn got asked out and by Danny and accepted. Danny being the cousin of Nick from Trent’s band so I heard about it a few days ago. I thought she would chicken out but I’ll give her credit. That took guts.” Daria said with admiration.





“Daddy don’t freak?” Danny said in a musical voice.

“Sorry I didn’t tell them.” Quinn admitted.

“You showed up and didn’t have some lame excuse like your parents wanted you to go to a dinner party or something so I’m ok with it.” Danny laughed her voice still musical.

“I was really nervous about tonight. I’ve never gone out with a girl before.” Quinn admitted.

“I figured. Look I’m not going to try anything unless I think you want me to. Deal.” Danny smiled.

“Deal.” Quinn said. “You look great. I love that choker on your neck.”

Danny blushed. “Thank you. I would say you look great but then you always do. You shine tonight.”

“Wow.” Quinn responded. “Ok, you’re good.”

Danny laughed and turned on the radio and slow romantic music came on.

“Very nice.” Quinn smiled.

“Can I ask you something?” Danny smiled.

“Sure.” Quinn tensed.

“Do I have any shot… I mean any at all?” Danny asked quietly.

Quinn thought for a second and with an admission to herself smiled. “I think you do.”

Part 2


“So you’ve never slowed danced before?” Danny asked with an understanding grin as they swayed across the open air dance floor.

“Never.” Quinn said breathlessly. “I always said that wasn’t until the 5th date and no one ever got that many.”

Danny smiled and shifted her left arm lower on Quinn’s back as they turned. The floor was almost empty with only a handful of couples enjoying the music.
“I feel honored.” Danny said seriously.

“Just so long as you keep feeling that way if I break any of your toes.” Quinn laughed lightly.

The taller girl just smiled and nodded feeling flushed by the closeness of their bodies. Her dark hair mingling with Quinn’s red as they danced closely.

“I’m sorry about Chez Pierre. I only had guys take me there because it was the best and most expensive.” Quinn said looking embarrassed.

“I just figured they would know how to speak French there.” Danny’s musical voice rang out.

“There is a nice Italian place my sister told me about one time. We could try it if … you know.” Quinn blushed.

“If I ask you out again.” Danny said not surprised at this point.

“Ya.” Quinn said shyly.

“That depends on you.” Danny said with a half smile.

“I … I’m having a really good time.” Quinn wimped out but her mind screamed at her.

“So close. … I like you Quinn maybe a lot more than like and I’d really like to find out but I need to know if you feel the same.” Danny sighed.
Quinn leaned forward and kissed her softly on the lips for a few brief heartbeats before pulling back and resting her cheek against Danny’s chest to hide the intense blush.

“So you want to go out again? Soon.” Danny said not missing a beat.

“I think I agreed to not date next week but maybe you could come over for dinner.” Quinn said contently.

“Sounds good. The music is over.” Danny smiled and started to step back.

“No it’s not. I can still hear the drums.” Quinn responded holding them together.

“That’s my heart.” Danny answered and wrapped her arms around the shorter girl.

“I could listen to it all night.” Quinn mumbled as they swayed together.

“Well we got here late so they are starting to look like they want to close the place.” Danny chuckled.

“I don’t want the night to end.” Quinn admitted.

Danny quickly squashed several hundred internal struggles and kissed the top of her date’s head.
“I know.” Quinn sighed and her grip released.


She sat in the passenger seat looking up at her house and bit her lip, tasting Danny’s lips again. She didn’t care how uncomfortable it was leaning across the gear shift she was just enjoying being held.
“Did you know I would say yes when you asked me out?” Quinn asked as she pulled out the embrace.

“No but I hoped.” Danny answered.

“So you think dinner Monday is going to be ok?” Quinn asked nervously.

“Yes, I’ll be here.” Danny promised.

“And you’re going to call me tomorrow right?” Quinn demanded.

“Yes.” Danny smiled widely.

With another kiss Quinn slipped out of the car and walked backwards to the house. She watched as Danny waited for her to turn and step onto the porch before leaving.

:Ok get ready Quinn because when you open that door all hell is going to break loose and this entire evening is going to be ruined.: Quinn thought as she gathered her strength outside the door.
With a deep breath she turned the handle.


No one was waiting by the door. Quinn walked into the living room and saw her father sitting on the couch.

“Hi Daddy.” Quinn said sheepishly.

“Hey kiddo, you missed curfew.” Jake smiled.

“Sorry.” Quinn shrugged.

“Did you have a nice evening?” Jake asked.

“Best one of my life.” Quinn answered purposely.

“Wow so Danny is going to be coming around more.” Jake nodded.

“I hope so. Are you ok?” Quinn pressed.

“It’s going to be fine. Just a bit of surprise but nothing to get worked up about.” Jake said calmly.

“Oh.” Quinn said shocked. “I asked Danny to come over for dinner on Monday.”

“That’s nice. I know your mother and me would love to meet her.” Jake turned and smiled warmly at her.

“Great.” Quinn said backing toward the stairs. “I’m tired so I’ll go to bed now.”

“See you in the morning princess.” Jake chuckled as Quinn hurried up the stairs.

Quinn moved down the hallway in shock at her father’s reaction until she paused in front of her sister’s door and saw the light coming out from underneath it.
Daria was sitting at her desk talking on the phone when she entered.
“Really I wouldn’t have thought you could put more than half a drunk bar into the Tank. …Ahhh Jane I think I’ll need to talk to you tomorrow. Quinn just got back from her date and she looks ready to explode … or talk.” Daria said as she inspected her younger sister leaning against the now closed door.

“Have a good date?” Daria teased as she hung up the phone.
Quinn just nodded yes and Daria grew rigid.

“Really. Want to talk about it?” Daria said with a grimace.
Quinn nodded yes again.

“Ok so talk.” Daria sighed.

“Why isn’t anyone surprised?” Quinn whispered just loud enough for her to hear.

“Quinn.” Daria started beginning to worry. Quinn seemed to be thinking as she stood.

“Did you know about me?” Quinn asked.

Daria sighed and stood before moving to her bed and sitting on it and answering as honestly as she could. There could be no doubt what Quinn was referring to.
“Not for sure but there were signs.”

“What signs… please?” Quinn asked stepping closer to the bed.

“Like the fact you don’t ever get serious with a guy or let one touch you in any fashion that would be considered intimate. Like the fact you try to surround yourself with the most attractive girls you can find.” Daria listed off.

Quinn’s eyes widened and then she nodded. “I like Danny.” She said softly and again there could be no doubt to her meaning.
“She seems nice.” Daria offered.

“How did they handle it when I left?” Quinn said nodding her head toward the door.

“Dad seemed ok with it and Mom just wanted to know when it started. Pretty well I would say. I expected more fireworks.” Daria shrugged.

“Danny is coming over for dinner on Monday.” Quinn informed her.

“So I’ll be leaving Tuesday morning instead of Monday night to head back to Boston.” Daria assured her.

“Thanks.” Quinn said with a weak smile.

“It’s ok you know.” Daria offered to her sister.
Quinn just nodded and smiled.



Quinn was snuggling against her blankets happily when her mother came in the next morning.

“Quinn your girlfriends are here.” Helen said waking her up from the foot of her bed.

“Danny!” Quinn said surprised and suddenly awake.

Helen froze and swallowed before taking a deep breath. “I’m sorry, your friends are here.” Helen restated.

“Oh. I’ll be down in a minute.” Quinn sighed.

It took her ten minutes to get dressed and cleaned up enough to show her face and she found Sandi, Tiffany and Stacy waiting for her downstairs.

“Can we talk here?” Sandi said sounding like a spy out of some bad movie.

“Sure.” Quinn replied.

“We’ve gone over the system and we think we found out what happened but we need one piece of information from you.”
Sandi declared.

“Ok.” Quinn replied weakly.

“Do you like girls?” Sandi asked.

:Well that was in no was subtle or anything.: Quinn thought with amusement.

“The system was personalized for you. We put Sandi in there and Danny only came up as a 4.” Stacy explained.

“And a weak 7 for Tiffany and a strong 9 for Stacy.” Sandi said looking at the three of them annoyed.

“So my preferences set it to like Danny not in spite of the fact she’s a girl but because of it.” Quinn sighed.

“You made a gay or straight test.” Stacy giggled.

“It’s not funny Stacy.” Sandi said sounding like her former presidential self.

“Sorry.” Stacy said but she didn’t stop smiling.

“Oh god it’s all here.” Quinn laughed at the absurdity of it.

“So you are … like Stacy.” Sandi declared.

Quinn looked at her three friends and sighed. “Well I plan on dating but yes.”

“I date … sometimes ... but there is a very limited selection.” Stacy complained.

“We so own this school, with the hottest gay and straight girls in the entire school.” Sandi looked smug.

“Does … this … mean … Quinn … won’t … be … dating … boys … anymore?” Tiffany asked.

“Correct.” Quinn answered quickly and blushed.

“Can … I … have … Jeffy?” Tiffany asked.

“Sure.” Quinn smiled.

“So how did the date go?” Stacy gushed.

Quinn smiled and started talking and every moment slipped out.

Her mother interrupted them after the phone rang.
“Quinn, it’s Danielle. And thank you for telling me we’re having company on Monday.” Helen scolded as she handed over the phone.

Quinn took the phone and tried to stop grinning. “Hi Danny.”

“Wow I can hear that smile all the way over here.” Danny laughed.
Quinn blushed and laughed warmly.

“I see your parents aren’t freaking too much.” Danny said.

“Not at all.” Quinn said honestly.

Sandi and the others waved at Quinn on their way out, she moved to a chair and sat down across the arms and settled in.

“I’d had the best date of my life last night.” Quinn said.

“Really, I had a great one myself. Maybe we should double date sometime.” Danny joked.

“I think I’m the jealous type so no sharing.” Quinn mused out loud.

“Oh now you want to get clingy.” Danny said with amusement.

“Very.” Quinn responded.

“You sure about this. I’ll understand if you aren’t ready.” Danny said quietly.

“I want this.” Quinn said softly. :I need this.: She thought.

Part 3


Quinn walked into the house after church service and waved at the atheist, as she thought of Daria on Sundays.

“So.” Daria smirked.

“Oh fine.” Quinn said and handed a ten dollar bill over to her sister.

“Thank you. I told you it wasn’t going to come up as part of the service. Hate to burst the bubble but maybe you’re going through a life changing all encompassing event but it doesn’t effect to many other people.” Daria smiled.

“I am a little full of myself aren’t I?” Quinn sighed.

“I refuse to answer that on the grounds it may violate our current peace accord.” Daria deadpanned.

“I’ll take that as a yes.” Quinn laughed.

“Did Mom talk to you yet?” Daria said at a whisper after checking to see if either parent was in sight.

“No and I was sure you were right and she would pick today because it’s the only time we’re alone for any amount of time.” Quinn replied in a hushed tone.

“Dad went to temple.” Daria informed her.

“He hasn’t gone for over a year.” Quinn said surprised not bothering to keep it from showing on her face.

“Well it shocked me. He didn’t ask me to go with him so I was pretty happy about having the house to myself. You and Mom at church and him at temple every Sunday would have been nice when I still lived here.” Daria joked.

“I doubt you would have managed to escape service as easy then.” Quinn teased.

“True enough.” Daria agreed.

Quinn looked around and slid onto the couch next to her sister and repeated Daria’s check for parents then leaned close and whispered.
“Any advice for a new gay person?” Quinn said lowly.

Daria had picked that moment to take a drink and sent it spraying across the living room.
“What?” She coughed as she struggled to breathe.

“I just thought you might have some words of encouragement for me.” Quinn said patting her sister on the back.

“But I’m not.” Daria gasped.

Quinn’s look of surprise was enough to make Daria laugh. “I’m straight. There’s nothing wrong with not being straight but I like guys. Is this about the whole me and Jane thing?” Daria smiled with a shake of her head.

“I just thought well … everyone always said you were.” Quinn blushed.

“They were wrong. … But I might have some advice for you anyway if you want?” Daria said thoughtfully.

Quinn nodded and looked eager.

“Let Danny past the mask. You have a lot to offer someone but only if you let them get past the surface.” Daria said honestly.

“Thank you.” Quinn smiled. “I guess asking for technical assistance with the whole issue is pointless if you’re straight.”

“Technical assistance?” Daria said confused at first but then she got it with a smirk.
“Might I suggest websites.” Daria snickered.

“They were so … trashy.” Quinn admitted.

“Then just take your time and let Danny teach you.” Daria shrugged.

“So she won’t be disappointed if I’m not any good.” Quinn looked embarrassed.

“Not if it’s real.” Daria said warmly and give Quinn a quick one armed hug.


Quinn dressed for school and walked downstairs looking perfect and smiled as her mother and father did their normal routine of rushing around in circles before dashing out the door.

“So are you ready to face your first day of school as a gay student.” Quinn said mimicking her mother’s voice.

“Not really but I have to get it over with.” She answered herself and sighed loudly and looked toward the ceiling.
:No, she’s staying an extra day to help out tonight so I’m not going to wake her up to give me a pep talk.: Quinn thought with determination.
Quinn started out of the house and smiled at the sight before her. :Now that’s timing.:

“Hey get a move on or we’re going to be late.” Danny called from the driveway.

“Hi.” Quinn said getting in the car and leaning over for a kiss.

“I got word that you might be nervous about this morning so I figured I would give you a ride.” Danny said after the kiss. Quinn raised an eyebrow and waited for an explanation.

“Your sister called Jane who had Nick call my brother who told me to call Daria and she suggested it.” Danny laughed.

:Thank you Daria.: Quinn thought fondly. “So I guess this isn’t new to you.”

“No, I’ve been out since I was 15 and while I may be new to Lawndale, I’ve been pretty open about my lifestyle.” Danny shrugged.
The drive to the school only took a matter of minutes before it was insight.

“Well my friends are ok with it and my family … well you’ll see tonight.” Quinn said hopefully.

“I’ll be there.” Danny assured her as they pulled into the school’s parking lot.

Quinn slid out of the car after it was parked and met Danny in the middle of the front and kissed her gently and sighed.

Quinn grabbed the sides of Danny’s shirt and held on nervously.

“Ready.” Danny said looking amused.

“No. Maybe we could skip and …” Quinn started before Danny stopped her with a kiss.

“Do you want to be with me?” Danny asked and Quinn nodded.

“Then we have to do this sooner or later.” Danny said encouragingly.

“This is some rite of passage for being gay isn’t it?” Quinn laughed.

“If that makes it easier.” Danny laughed with her as they walked toward the front doors.


Quinn moved through the day waiting for the comments or insults to start and by lunch she was forced to admit she was almost disappointed in the lack of response.
Sliding into the table across from Sandi she scanned the lunchroom for Danny and sighed when she didn’t see her. Sandi looked up and read her perfectly and smiled.

“Did you expect tar and feathers?” Sandi goaded her.

“Well honestly yes.” Quinn admitted.

“The football team is holding a wake and Jamie had to be carried out of science after he heard the news but I don’t think it was a big secret for anyone else.” Sandi laughed.

“Why couldn’t someone have told ME?” Quinn said shaking her head and pushing her tray away.

“I remember that line.” Danny said as she moved up behind Quinn and dropped into the seat next to her.

“Hi.” Danny said to Sandi who nodded back.

“People could at least pretend to be surprised.” Quinn whined.
Danny and Sandi burst into laughter.

“If it makes you feel better, I had no clue.” Sandi laughed.

Stacy and Tiffany quickly joined them and looked at the still chuckling and gasping girls.
“What … did … we … miss?” Tiffany asked.

“Quinn is disappointed that no one is making a deal about her new status.” Sandi answered and Quinn blushed.

“I can do that.” Stacy smiled evilly.
“QUINN, you’re gay and you didn’t come to me. I’m hurt.” Stacy said loudly stomping her feet for effect, letting her voice carry across the room.

“More like jealous.” Sandi snorted as the laughter from the table died out.

“So who else is gay here?” Danny asked and Quinn kicked her in the shin.

“I’m not asking to look around, just curious. We’re a built in support system for each other.” Danny said rubbing her sore leg.

“Jealous type remember.” Quinn shrugged and looked at Stacy.

“Well there are a few girls and guys but everyone is a little scared about being known because of Li and her classes for anyone different.” Stacy said looking around before leaning in across the table.
“One of the teachers.” Stacy whispered. “I’ll tell you who when we aren’t here.”

“How do you know about a teacher being gay?” Sandi said with narrow eyes.

“We talked, don’t look at me like that. We TALKED at the gay club downtown.” Stacy answered.

“We have a club?” Quinn gasped.

“It’s pretty nice too. Not like the Zon.” Stacy shuddered.

“Cool that was my next project. Find the local gay hangout.” Danny sighed with relief.

“Again I feel the need to stress the whole jealous type.” Quinn joked leaning her shoulder against Danny’s.

“Got it.” Danny laughed.



Quinn arrived at the house after school just as a cleaning service left.

“Hello Quinn. How was your day?” Helen asked sweetly.

“Pretty good. Calmer than I expected.” Quinn said as she suddenly got nervous about touching anything in the gleaming
house.

“Mom decided to spruce up the house for Danny’s visit.” Daria smirked from the couch.

“Ok, that was nice.” Quinn said more than a little confused as her mother ducked into the kitchen.

“She’s gone crazy.” Daria said as soon as their mother had left the room.

“She took the day off work and watched a bunch of cable television shows with gay people in them and has determined
they’re all neat freaks and you’re going to turn into one soon. She didn’t want to give Danny a bad impression.” Daria
whispered.
Quinn couldn’t control the giggles that started.



Quinn waited by the front windows trying not to pace. She had stopped changing her outfit at least when Daria offered to loan her some clothes.

“She’ll be here.” Daria assured her and looked at her watch.

“I know it’s early but I’m really terrified.” Quinn answered noticing the gesture.
Double rays of light hit the window as a car pulled into the driveway and Daria watched her sister’s body unclench itself.
Quinn hurried to the door and laughed at herself.

“I’m supposed to be upstairs being fashionably late.” Quinn shook her head in amusement.

“Do you really want to leave them alone with her this soon?” Daria joked.

“Good point.” Quinn said seriously.

The knocking at the door surprised them both.

“Eep.” Quinn squeaked.

“It’s going to be ok.” Daria said patiently.
Quinn nodded and opened the door. Danny smiled brightly at her and accepted her hand as she stepped through the doorway.

“This is going to be a fun evening.” Daria smirked.

Part 4


Daria walked toward the kitchen to give her sister a few moments alone with Danny before the circus began.

“So what aren’t we allowed to discuss?” Jake was asking her mother.

“We shouldn’t bring up Quinn’s past dating as it might seem like we’re implying this is a phase and for god’s sake don’t discuss politics.” Helen answered.
Jake nodded his head in response.

“Danny is here.” Daria said as she entered the kitchen, setting off a panicked frenzy from her mother. Her mother wiped the already sparkling countertop and looked around nervously. Jake was stood calmly sipping his drink.
Daria went around the table and waited wanting to enjoy the show for when Quinn entered.

They came in slowly and Daria noted how tightly Quinn gripped the taller girl’s hand. Both girls were in attractive dresses that seemed to go together perfectly and Daria made a note to ask Quinn if they had planned it.

“Mom Dad, this is Danny.” Quinn said.

“Hi Mr. and Mrs. Morgendorffer.” Danny said showing no fear.
:A touch of nerves but I’ll bet money she’s calmer than anyone else in the room.: Daria thought grudgingly.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you Danny.” Helen said looking interested.

“It’s really Danielle Todds but everybody ..always calls me Danny. My Dad wanted another boy.” Danny shrugged and Daria noted the slip.
:More of a return. Like she’s trying to not sound a certain way.: Daria thought.

“Nice car you got there Danny.” Jake jumped in.

“Thank you. My brother is a bit of a closet grease monkey and he picked it out for me.” Danny smiled.

“Well why doesn’t everyone take a seat and we can talk over some appetizers why we’re waiting for dinner to finish.”Helen smiled.

“So Danny did I hear right about one of Quinn’s worshippers fainting at school.” Daria said evilly and watched her mother clutch at the table.

“Let’s see, Jeffy is the one who Tiffany snagged right.” Danny waited for Quinn to nod. “And Joey is the one that was crying so Jamie was the one that fainted. His parents had to come pick him up.” Danny grinned.

“Well he and Quinn were friends for a long time.” Helen said weakly.

“Friends.” Quinn said surprised.

“My favorite part of the day was when Sandi tried to talk you into auctioning off your datebook.” Danny teased and Quinn smiled.

“I can’t believe she said that.” Quinn giggled.

“Well the offers did get pretty high.” Danny chuckled.
Daria snickered at the outright confusion that played on her mother’s face. Helen got up and checked on the food and pulled a tray from the oven and started preparing plates.

“So Danny what are you into?” Jake asked.

“Well I guess I like the normal things. Shopping and hanging out but I’m a bit of an astrometry nut. I like to go camping with a telescope and watch the stars.” Danny answered.

“That sounds romantic.” Quinn leaned against Danny.

“Maybe you could come along one night.” Danny smiled at her and Daria felt a twinge of envy.

“Just you and me out under the stars.” Quinn said and her eyes glazed over slightly.
Daria cleared her throat which served to snap the two girls back to the reality of two high strung nervous parents in the room.

“So could we have met your parents yet?” Helen tried to move the conversation in another direction.

“We just moved here a few months ago so I doubt it. We’re new money so we have to work extra hard to be able to associate with old money.” Danny was clearly quoting someone.

“I don’t understand.” Helen replied.

“My parents want to be accepted into the whole rich people lifestyle so they spend their time kissing up to families like the Sloane’s.” Danny responded.

“Danny’s family is rich.” Quinn said weakly.

“Oh. You didn’t tell us.” Helen replied.

“It’s not a big deal.” Quinn shrugged and Daria found herself believing her sister.

“Quinn tells me you’re a lawyer that must be exciting.” Danny said and Daria nodded her approval at the skillful redirecting tactic.

“I tend to deal with the less exciting cases. I leave criminal cases to others.” Helen said humbly put pleased.

“Still going over the facts and interviewing people sounds exciting and it’s got to be fun making them cry in court.” Danny pushed.

“That was once, ok twice but that woman was lying the entire time she was up there.” Helen said quickly and then took a breath. “It can be exciting at times.”

Helen handed out plates and everyone started eating and Quinn noticed that Danny wasn’t touching one of the side items. Danny saw her looking and leaned over and whispered in her ear.

“Really.” Quinn said surprised.

“Really.” Danny responded.

“Mom, Can I make Danny another plate.” Quinn said suddenly.

“No it’s fine.” Danny said blushing.

“Is something wrong?” Helen said looking concerned.

“Just a food allergy to tomatoes.” Quinn said as she scooped up Danny’s plate and moved to the counter.

“Oh the horror.” Daria said. “A life without pizza.”

“I’m sorry Danny.” Helen said sounding sincere.

“You couldn’t have known.” Danny blushed. “Quinn you can still eat them.” Quinn had returned with both Danny’s and her own plate now completely devoid of any tomatoes.

“Not a good idea.” Jake said. “I read a story about a girl that was allergic to peanut butter and kissed her boyfriend after he had some and died.”

“Jake!” Helen gasped.

“So no tomatoes ever.” Quinn muttered softly.

“It’s not that bad of an allergy. I just kinda of swell up a little.” Danny sighed.

“Well I don’t think Quinn wants to use negative reinforcement to put you off kissing her.” Daria smirked.

“DARIA!” Helen said as Danny chuckled.

“Not going to happen.” Danny said with a grin.

“So you two are getting more than just … well more than we usually see from Quinn.” Jake asked.

“JAKE!” Helen gasped.

“Daddy.” Quinn exclaimed.

“I’m hoping so.” Danny took it in stride.

“We are.” Quinn said firmly.

“Look, I know Quinn dated guys, …a lot, but that doesn’t matter to me.” Danny said confidently.
Quinn started counting mentally with a bet to herself that her mother would break first and she won in 12 seconds.

“We just want her to be happy.” Helen said.

“I am.” Quinn said and rested her hand on top of Danny’s.

Daria wished for a moment she had Jane’s art skills as Quinn’s pale hand covering Danny’s olive skinned hand inspired her.

“Danny I was wondering.” Daria started looking at the picture perfect couple.

“Yes.” Danny smiled.

“Would it be rude to ask where your family is from?” Daria continued.

“New Mexico. My grandmother was from Egypt though.” Danny smiled as she noticed were Daria was staring. :Quinn was right. She’s taking a mental picture. I wonder why she doesn’t do photography anymore.: Danny thought.

“Thanks.” Daria said.

“Look I know this is really strange to everyone but I’m kinda of surprised you two weren’t expecting this. Quinn can tell you that not many people at school acted really shocked by the news that Quinn was dating a girl.” Danny took her turn to push a little.
Daria noted her father suddenly taking to studying his plate while her mother just looked slightly embarrassed.

“Daria told me there were signs.” Quinn said quietly. “So it’s ok.”

“You … You never liked boys much. Even the ones you dated seemed more like servants instead of boyfriends.” Jake said without looking up.

Helen was glaring at her husband but Quinn responded.

“I was using them and I’m starting to understand how they must have felt about me and I feel bad about it but I think I was trying to push them away.” Quinn said. “But there isn’t anything I can do to change the past.”

“It’s ok.” Danny said turning her hand over and squeezing Quinn’s gently. Quinn leaned against Danny and rested her head against Danny’s shoulder.

“We’re just going to need some time to adjust is all. You seem like a wonderful girl and it’s obvious that you care about each other so just give us time.” Helen sighed.

“That’s fair.” Danny nodded with a warm smile. “I know it’s happening fast but Quinn makes me smile and think and laugh. She’s perfect.”

“You’re the perfect one.” Quinn returned as she blushed from the flattery.

“So Danny how long have you been homosexual?” Jake asked earning himself another glare from Helen.

:He’s honest and curious, can’t call that a bad thing. Don’t have to worry about any kind of sideways attack from him, that’s got to be nice.: Danny smiled before answering. “I figured it out when I was 15. I dated a few boys before then but nothing ever clicked. Then it just happened. I met someone and it was all so clear.”

“Just like me.” Quinn responded.

“I think it happens that way a lot.” Danny agreed. “Complete confusion and then everything falls into place all at once.”

“It must be hard.” Helen said with a sad frown.

“Not really. My parents don’t really notice and my brother and sisters don’t mind. I was worried that Lawndale would be really conservative but it seems ok. No one has uttered a cross word yet.” Danny shrugged. “And the company is the best.” She kissed the back of Quinn’s hand reverently.
Quinn blushed and smiled.

“I love you.” Quinn suddenly blurted as Danny lowered her hand back down to the table.

“I love you too.” Danny smiled and leaned over and kissed her not caring who saw or heard the exchange. :About time.: She thought happily.
Helen and Jake got quiet but Daria noticed the smile pulling at her mother’s face.




Quinn floated up the stairs after saying goodnight to Danny for ten minutes by her car and her sister’s voice stopped her as she passed Daria’s room.

“I’m telling you Jane I’m down right jealous.” Daria said into the phone.

“No not of that. You should see them together. They’re always touching and looking at each other. I would kill to have someone look at me like that.”

“Stop it but to be honest I don’t care if it was a girl or a boy, if someone made me feel like they make each other feel. I would do anything to be with them.” Daria responded to a comment on the other end of the line.

“Quinn’s different now. I think Danny is a good influence on her but maybe it’s just the whole finding out who she really is effect. My bratty sister turns into this really cool person and I’m not going to be around to hang out with her.” Daria said and Quinn smiled.

“I’m going up in the morning. Do me a favor ok. If Quinn needs someone to talk to face to face I want to let her know you might be helpful. Thanks. I’m beat so I’m going to bed.” Daria said and hung up the phone.


Quinn snuck to her room and sat down on her bed and thought.
:I am different now. It’s not just the studying either. She makes me want to make something. She inspires me. God I can’t think straight all I can see are those pools of melted chocolate she has for eyes and her olive skin against mine. That graceful neck…:

“Oh my god …I’m in love!” Quinn said in shock her face a vision of joy.



Danny was sitting on the roof of her family’s home and peering through her telescope having given up trying to sleep an hour before wearing only her night clothes. The chill never bothered her much but she knew that these trips would end once winter set in.
:I can’t screw this up.: She thought as memories of Quinn flooded her senses.

“She’s special.” She whispered out loud. A smile formed as she looked into the view sight of her telescope then pulled back. She could concentrate on anything at the moment.

:Get a grip ok so she’s a complete and total hottie and that whole coming into her own intellectually thing is sexy as hell. She’s sweet and perfect and I have to fall in love with her in 3 days.: Danny thought shaking her head in disbelief.
Danny stood and covered up the telescope and started toward her window that opened onto the roof. She fought the urge to scream out from the roof her feelings but managed to contain herself.

Part 5


Danny swung open her front door smiling as she knew she would be seeing Quinn in just a short period of time. She was so distracted by her thoughts that she didn’t see the person standing next to her door before she stepped out.

:This isn’t going to be good. Just don’t fight back.: Danny thought warning herself as Stacy Rowe came into view.
:I knew this was coming. It was pretty clear she had a thing for Quinn so just take it and talk once she’s done.: Danny felt her body tensing as she waited for the attack to come.

“If you break her heart I’ll … I’ll …well I’ll do something really bad to you.” Stacy fumed at her looking frustrated. The girl paced and flexed her hands and if she wasn’t the fixation of the anger Danny might have found it amusing.

“Fair enough.” Danny said quickly and she cursed her smart mouth and tensed again.
Stacy seemed to not notice or let it slide. Her body seemed to relax and the Stacy that Danny was getting used to seemed to return.

“Please don’t tell Quinn I came here.” Stacy asked nervously. “I have to get to school.”

Stacy started to walk down the driveway and Danny hesitated for a few moments stunned. She made up her mind and jumped in her car and drove after Stacy. :I can’t believe I’m doing this.:

“Hey stop for a second.” She called out to Stacy.

“What?” Stacy asked.

“I’m going to go pick up Quinn, you want to ride to school with us?” Danny asked.

“But I just …” Stacy said looking back toward Danny’s house.

“Hey I might do the same thing in your position. C’mon Stacy I know it would mean a lot to Quinn.” Danny played her trump card. “She’s going to know if there is tension between me and you.”

“That’s really unfair.” Stacy said but she opened the door and climbed into the back seat.

“I know but look this is between me and you nobody needs to know and I do love her.” Danny said honestly.
Stacy just nodded at this information.

“I’m sorry.” Danny said sadly.

“I wish I could hate you but you’re just too nice. I’m not going to try anything with Quinn if you’re worried about that.” Stacy sighed.

“Hey I think you’re pretty cool too.” Danny responded with a weary smile.

“So tell the truth was my threat any good. I practiced it.” Stacy asked causing Danny to laugh.

“Not bad, for a second there I thought you were going to pound on me for a while.” Danny answered.
Stacy seemed pleased with this response and pulled out her compact and started practicing what Danny guessed was a tough guy face.

“Hey DeNiro, we’re here.” Danny said as she pulled into Quinn’s driveway.
Stacy quickly put the compact away and watched as Quinn walked out to the car.

Quinn slid into the passenger seat and got a kiss from Danny before turning and smiling at Stacy.
“Hey what are you doing here?” Quinn asked looking pleased.

“She decided to show up at my place to give me the standard “treat my friend right” speech.” Danny said casually.

“Stacy.” Quinn rolled her eyes and patted Stacy on the leg.

“I think it’s in the code or something.” Stacy replied weakly.

“It’s nice knowing my friends are going to stick with me through all this.” Quinn said and grinned back at Stacy.

“Umm you stuck with me after you figured out about me.” Stacy blushed.
Quinn nodded and Danny realized something. :It never occurred to her to bail on Stacy. But she just assumes everyone will bail on her.:

“School ahead.” Danny called out.

She pulled the car into the student parking lot and made a mental note to try to get Stacy unavailable as soon as possible.




Quinn sat in her history class and listened to Mr. DeMartino rant on about lazy students as he collected the homework.

“Morgendorffer SAVE me from the stupidity of YOUR classmates and describe for me why California has the large population it HAS today.” DeMartino demanded.

“The gold rush. The discovery of large amounts of gold led to hundreds of thousands of people migrating to the west coast and since the gold made people rich it caused other nations to start considering California as a more profitable trading port. The easy availability of rare goods made more people migrate.” Quinn answered without a thought.

“What! It didn’t have ANYTHING to do with SPORTS teams or the MOVIE industry.” DeMartino responded sarcastically as he flipped through some of the homework papers.

“Well I’m sure those things help keep it up but …” Quinn trailed off.

“Very GOOD. I see that at least ONE of my students read the material.” DeMartino laughed. “You, where was gold discovered?” He turned to another student who seemed to shrink in their seat.

“God Quinn if you keep this up the rest of us are going to have to start studying.” Sandi scolded her with a smile.

“Shutter’s mill.” Stacy suddenly burst out and then blushed covering her mouth.
DeMartino heard this and barked. “CLOSE, Sutter’s Mill but I’ll give YOU credit for having at least opened the chapter.

“Now can you tell me what color gold is?” DeMartino asked another cowering student in a very condescending voice.

“Shiny.” The student whimpered.

“ARGHHHHHHHHHHHH.” DeMartino yelled grabbing at his hair.

“Even …I …knew …that …one.” Tiffany drawled looking at the student in sheer disgust.

“Quinn promised ME that after you and your sister are out of COLLEGE you will come back here and drive me around in your fancy CARS so we can point and laugh at all the LOSERS from this class who will be working shoveling dirt.” DeMartino pleaded.
Quinn held up her hand in a thumbs up gesture.

“NOW if someone besides that back corner CAN answer a single question right I WON’T assign double homework tonight.” DeMartino said waving toward Quinn and the former fashion club.

“Expect extra homework.” Sandi sighed.

“Now can someone tell me what happened to all the Native Americans during the gold rush?” DeMartino asked.

Quinn heard Stacy’s head hit the top of her desk and even Sandi looked like she knew the answer.
:Well I can’t go out with Danny till the weekend anyway.: She shrugged.


Danny was walking out of O’Neil’s senior English class when he called her to his desk.

“Danielle I just wanted to give you these pamphlets and let you know that we’ll be holding a new booster class to help out those students with special needs like yourself.” Mr. O’Neil said with a smile that might have meant more if he wasn’t reading from a cue card.

:I didn’t think my last paper was that bad.: She thought as she accepted the paperwork and was relieved to see it was all coping with being a gay teen type material.

“That’s ok. I’m doing pretty good.” Danny said and she held them back out to him.

“Everyone needs some help now and then. Just think about it.” He said.

“Oookkkk.” Danny said and she turned and went to walk out of the room.

“I’ll be talking with Quinn after lunch. It might be good for the two of you.” O’Neil said pleasantly.
Danny paled and broke into a run.

:Damn Quinn does not need to have that conversation unprepared.: She thought as she tried to remember what class Quinn would be heading too.



Quinn was sitting in science next to Stacy and had the textbook open and prayed that none of the guys would blink funny or anything and set Barch off on one of her rants today.

“Now can anyone tell me why the Y chromosome seems to reduce IQ by 40 points?” Barch asked the class with a cold smile.

:Well there goes today’s class.: Quinn thought closing the book and pulling a writing pad in front of her.
She tuned out the rant and started writing and found herself escaping into what she was writing so deep that she didn’t see Mrs. Barch standing next to her until it was too late.

“It seems we have another writer in the Morgendorffer family.” Barch scolded as she pulled the pad of paper out from underneath Quinn’s pen.

:Uh oh.: Quinn thought.
“Red and black falling together. Brushes against skin like a feather. Strong and proud voice clear and loud. Skin so soft and smooth. Oh please make a move.” Barch read out loud. “Who is this Danny and why are you lowering yourself to moon over some worthless man?”

“Ummm.” Quinn tried to think of an answer and almost as if summoned Danny burst into the room gasping for breath.

“Ex.cuse .. me. Can .. I talk .. to .. Quinn .. for a … minute?” Danny asked with a heaving chest and Quinn had to admit it was an attractive look.

“And who are you?” Barch demanded.

“I’m Danny.” Danny answered surprised by the sudden giggles and laughter from the class but it died away quickly.
Barch looked down at the bundle of paper and read it again. She raised her head and smiled at Danny and then at Quinn and with a quick pat on her head, handed back the pad and said. “Go right ahead.”

Quinn stood up and walked toward the front of the class waiting for the snickering to start again or the stares but by the time she joined Danny in the hall way most of the students had gone back to whatever distraction they were using to get through the class.

“Sorry.” Danny said looking nervously at the expression on Quinn’s face.

“It’s ok. You’re right, everyone already knew or suspected at least.” Quinn said shaking her head.

“I just had a talk with Mr. O’Neil and I figured I would warn you before he got to you.” Danny started and she described the brief meeting moments before.

“They can’t make us go so it’s no big deal right.” Quinn shrugged.

“I thought you’d freak if he started in on you after class.” Danny said slightly impressed.

“Having a bad love poem read out loud in the middle of science pretty much used up all my stress points for the day. Of course having the title character come running in the door was interesting.” Quinn smirked.

“No.” Danny tried not to smile but failed.

“Right before you came in.” Quinn returned the smile.

“Well in for a penny then in for a pound.” Danny said and she leaned down and quickly kissed Quinn before darting away down the hall.



“Pass her.” Stacy said from the back seat with an almost urgent need.

“It’s a 45 zone and we’re already going 50 so no.” Danny responded.

“Stacy we don’t need to beat Sandi and Tiffany to the mall.” Quinn stated firmly.

“But going fast is nice.” Stacy pleaded.

“But getting pulled over for drag racing isn’t.” Danny said firmly. “Tell you what snacks are on me to make up for it.”

“Not the same.” Stacy pouted.

“So you’re not going to get in dutch with your folks for this trip are you?” Danny asked as she drove.

“I need a new pair of shoes for gym and if I happen to get a few extra things then that’s time management.” Quinn answered smoothly.

“So what happened to this pair of sneakers?” Stacy asked grinning.

“They disappeared out of my locker. I looked everywhere and couldn’t find them. I’m not making it up.” Quinn said and then responded to Stacy’s doubtful look.

“Am I missing something?” Danny asked.

“It’s option 3 on the get a emergency trip to the mall cheat sheet we made up in freshman year.” Quinn replied.

“So someone really stole your shoes.” Stacy frowned and wrinkled up her nose.

“Isn’t that weird.” Quinn shuddered.

“I tell you someone who would steal a girl’s shoes would suck eggs.” Danny said harshly then blushed.
Stacy and Quinn both giggled the rest of the way to the mall.


Quinn got her new gym sneakers and also a pair of hiking boots that brought a smile to Danny’s face. While Sandi dragged Danny off to try on skirts with Tiffany, Stacy decided to talk to Quinn.

“Danny’s really nice.” Stacy said.

“Yes she is.” Quinn replied hoping this wasn’t going to be the conversation she thought it would be.

“You two look really great with each other.” Stacy said.

“Ya.” Quinn hummed.

“IwenttoDanny’shouseandthreathentobeatherupifshebrokeyourheartbecauseIhaveacrushonyoubutI’mnotgoingtotryanythingbecauseIknowyou’rehappywithDanny.” Stacy exploded and then stood there gasping for breath.

“Thank you for telling me. I guessed you liked me before I figured out about myself. It means a lot to me that you’re willing to put aside your personal feelings to respect us enough to not infer.” Quinn sighed trying not to laugh at Stacy’s expression during the outpouring of words.

“Please don’t be mad. I promise I’ll never do anything to try to break you two up. I still want to be friends.” Stacy begged.

“So do I and you being honest today is going to be a big part of that. I’m not mad.” Quinn smiled as she held up a blouse to Stacy. “This is so your color.”

“So that’s why we don’t tell Stacy the really big secrets we want to keep from Quinn.” Sandi joked from behind them.

“She …lasted …longer …this …time.” Tiffany smiled.

“Really because I would have thought you’d need time travel to break any faster.” Danny laughed nicely and hugged Stacy lightly before moving behind Quinn and wrapping her arms around her.

“And why didn’t I hear about this from you?” Quinn asked sternly but the smile made it hard to take her tone serious.

“I figured it was natural and something that we could be dealt with quickly and without any hard feelings.” Danny shrugged.
“Ok but I hate secrets. You’d do well to remember that.” Quinn said as she leaned back against Danny.

“I will.” Danny promised.

“Now show me these skirts.” Quinn teased.



Danny dropped Quinn off in front of her house and waited for her to open the door before driving away.

“Is that you Quinn?” Helen said from the living room.

“Yes Mom.” Quinn rolled her eyes.

“Your school called my office today.” Helen said sweetly.
:Oh no.: Quinn thought in fear.

Part 6

Danny ate without speaking as her parents discussed their day amongst themselves and her brother scarfed down the food at a breakneck pace. He wasn’t any more comfortable in the finery that her parents insisted on for even private meals than she was.
She wasn’t paying any attention to those around her until her brother’s laughter broke into her shell and she looked around and saw the other three people all staring directly at her.

“What?” She demanded.

“Looks like Danielle is spacing again.” Her brother Herb laughed again.

“Spin.” She said showing him a finger.

“Now Danielle that’s not very lady like.” He father scolded.

“Sorrrry.” She smirked, feeling very annoyed.

“As I was asking you and have yet to receive an answer to Danielle. This girl you’re seeing you said her name is Morgendorffer right?” Her mother said nicely.

“Yes mother.” Danny sighed.

“Is this the same Daria that dated Angier and Kay Sloane’s son Tom?” Her mother smiled.

Danny wiped her mouth before answering. “No. I’m dating Daria’s sister Quinn.”
She was aware of the connection as she quickly discovered since they started dating that Quinn talked about her sister as often as the people around her could stand.
Both her parents got quiet and her brother looked ready to make one of his usual comments about her outstanding taste in woman until her mother spoke.

“Quinn Morgendorffer. The slut!” Her mother exclaimed.

“Time to go.” Her brother said and taking his plate with him he disappeared in seconds. He had seen her eyes before she closed them and started counting.

“Easy Susan. I’m sure Dann… Danielle can explain herself.” Her father said politely.

“I really would like some kind of explanation of why my daughter has chosen to date the town tramp.” Susan Todds declared rudely.

“Don’t call her that.” Danny fumed.

“Why not? Everyone else does. She’s been through half the town and I guess she’s decided to go through the other half now.” Susan spat out.

“Quinn isn’t a slut. She’s just a girl that dated a lot but she wasn’t a tramp.” Danny tried to be reasonable.

“I hear she put out for the entire male population of Lawndale.” Susan stated hatefully.

“Shut up!” Danny said pushing her plate away from her.

“Danielle! Don’t talk to your mother that way.” Her father demanded.

“You can shut up to. What the hell is wrong with you?” She said first to her father and then to her mother.

“I don’t like the idea of my daughter lowering herself to consort with trash.” Susan said proudly.

“She’s not trash!” Danny said jumping to her feet so quickly her chair struck the wall behind her and cracked.

“All I know is what I hear from informed sources.” Susan waved her hands. “And that girl has spent years jumping from one guy to another.”

“Funny that sounds familiar. You might remember it from before I came out.” Danny smirked.

Susan straightened up as if struck. “You dated a handful of gentleman. She’s dated a town.”

“At least she didn’t try putting out for any of those guys. Unlike I did.” Danny fumed fists clinched tightly.

“And what are you implying?” Her mother laughed.

“Let me put it this way. If Quinn were to get married, she could wear white without blushing.” Danny laughed.

“I truly doubt that.” Her mother scoffed.

“Just because you couldn’t keep your pants up on dates doesn’t mean she couldn’t.” Danny tossed over the table.

“Calm down.” Her father said rising to his feet showing where she got her height from.

“As soon as SHE stops bad mouthing Quinn.” Danny answered.

“Danielle your mother is just concerned that maybe this girl isn’t our kind.” Greg Todds said carefully.

“Our kind!” Danny laughed. “You were a truck mechanic before Grandpa died. It’s been four years since you touched an engine and the oil stains are still soaked into your hands. Our kind! You were a waitress at a strip club.” Danny said turning to her mother.

“Danielle!” Greg said on the verge of shouting.

“My name is Danny. Remember you gave it to me.” Danny responded.

“You are still the same gutter mouth rude girl that came out of New Mexico. Everyone else has managed to gain some refinement but you still act like a farmhand.” Her mother growled.

“I did that to help out with the bills and there’s nothing wrong with getting your hands dirty for a decent paycheck.” Danny said shaking her head in disgust.

“We’re never going back to that again. You know that right Danny.” Greg said smiling at her sadly hoping that his nickname would calm her.

“I know but there isn’t any reason to act like it was a bad life just because we were poor.” Danny sighed. “I wish Grandpa hadn’t died.”

“You never even met him. Why would you care?” Susan snapped.

“Because I was never ashamed of you before.” Danny said and she started to walk out of the dining room.

She didn’t look back until she felt her mother’s hands on her arm. Her eyes flashed with fury as she turned to face the shorter woman.



“Mom we've talked about this for the last two days. I really don’t think this class is a good idea.” Quinn said spooning toppings onto her taco.

“What could it hurt?” Helen said nicely.

“Ask Daria. If it was someone besides O’Neil I might be more willing but he’s a goof.” Quinn answered.

“All I ask is you and Danny consider it. I understand there will be some exercises on maintaining relationships.” Helen pressed.

“We’ve talked about it Mom and honestly we’re terrified that Mrs. Li is going to use this class to bring in the people to FIX us.” Quinn admitted.

“We wouldn’t let them do that to either of you.” Jake said joining the conversation for the first time.
Helen looked surprised and seemed to lose focus for several seconds before speaking again.

“Of course not. I just want to make sure you give everything a fair chance.” Helen said smoothly.

“I’ll talk to some of the other gay students. Stacy is going to introduce me and Danny to some of the others and see what they think and then we can talk.” Quinn relented.

“That’s all I ask.” Helen smiled.

“I think we need to tell Quinn the good news.” Jake smiled.
Quinn grabbed her thigh under the table to calm herself. “What?” She asked with a fake smile.

“Well you’re almost 18 so we’ve decided to extend you’re curfew an hour during the week and as long as you don’t abuse it, three hours on Friday and Saturday.” Jake informed her.

“This is a reward for how well you have been acting since before school started.” Helen grinned.

“That’s great.” Quinn beamed.

“And the subject of sleepovers has come up. We know you’re used to staying over at friend’s houses and them staying here but as you’re dating Danny it isn’t the same.” Helen advised her sternly.

“What about camping trips?” Quinn asked quickly.

“If it comes up we will discuss it.” Helen sighed.
Quinn nodded and decided to not push her luck tonight.


Quinn tried to call Danny’s cell phone and it went to voice mail each time so she called Sandi after leaving a message for Danny to call her and detailed her plan.

“Hey butch.” Sandi picked up on the second ring.

“Hey yourself. You want to go hit a gay club.” Quinn smirked.

“It’s got to be better than sitting here listening to my parents fight over whose fault it is that my brothers seem to be monsters.” Sandi said casual.

“Ok, you get Tiffany and I’ll get Stacy.” Quinn said thinking where each person lived.

“What no Danny?” Sandi said surprised.

“Missing in action, all I get is voice mail. I’m thinking her parents dragged her off to dine with the Sloane’s or some of the other rich families.” Quinn sighed.

“Bummer. Let’s met at the Pizza King.” Sandi suggested.

“I’ll be there in 30 minutes or so.” Quinn replied.

“See you then.” Sandi said and hung up.

Quinn quickly called Stacy and convinced her of the plan and arranged to pick her up in a matter of minutes.

“Going out?” Helen said as Quinn came down the stairs.

“Stacy is going to take us to this club she found.” Quinn admitted.

“That kind of club.” Helen quizzed looking concerned.

“Yes it’s a gay club but we’re taking Tiffany and Sandi so I don’t think anything is going to happen. If Danny calls please ask her to call my cell.” Quinn said and waited for the explosion.

“It’s a school night so remember you only have an extra hour.” Helen pointed out.

“I don’t plan on hanging out. I just want to get a look at it.” Quinn admitted.

“Just be careful.” Helen insisted.

“Ok Mom.” Quinn smiled. “Besides without Danny it’s going to be pretty boring.”


Sandi broke out laughing as Quinn stood mesmerized at the sight of the club.

“We’re lucky. It’s ladies night.” Stacy said looking around like she was shopping.

“You can’t disappear.” Sandi said directly to her.

“Fine. Hi Tina.” Stacy groaned and waved at a blonde that walked by openly checking them out.

“Let’s get a table.” Quinn said as she saw the dance floor that was full on women dancing to the back booths where couples seemed to be making out.

“Are …they …supposed …to …be …dressed …like …that?” Tiffany asked as she tried not to stare at a scantily clad couple dancing on the edge of the dance floor.

“Don’t do that.” Stacy scolded her. “It’s rude to not stare. They went to a lot of trouble to make people stare. It’s what they like.”

“Ohhh.” Tiffany said confused.

“What can I get you ladies?” A waitress said coming up in a school girl outfit.

“Your phone number.” Stacy joked.

“Told you a thousand times if you want my number talk to my girlfriend at the bar.” The waitress chuckled.

“Thousand times.” Sandi mused.

“I come here a lot.” Stacy shrugged. “Four sex on the beaches.” Stacy said to the waitress who walked away without asking for id.

“They don’t ID?” Sandi said surprised.

“If they don’t know you then they do. You’re with me and she knows me, I wouldn’t bring cops in.” Stacy shrugged.

“Hey baby girl who are your friends?” A drunk large woman came over and started rubbing Stacy’s shoulders.
Stacy tried to shift way without being to obvious but it was clear she wasn’t happy about their new friend.

“Why do you keep touching my girlfriend?” Sandi said suddenly looking pissed.

“Whoa, sorry.” The drunk pulled back and started retreating with her hands out until she fell over a table.

“Thank you.” Stacy said with a grin.

“You need a wingman in here.” Sandi sniffed.

“I don’t think I’ll be bringing Danny here too often.” Quinn said turning to follow an Asian girl walking by in a skin tight dress.

“No one messes with a couple. It’s one of those unwritten rules.” Stacy said. “We come here to get away and escape into a world where gay is everywhere, not have to worry about someone stealing our girlfriends.” Stacy informed them.

“Would you like to dance?” The Asian girl said appearing next to Tiffany. Tiffany looked over at Sandi who shrugged and then at Stacy and Quinn who both nodded for her to go ahead.

“Ok …but …you …have …to …lead.” Tiffany said.

“Not a problem.” The girl smiled and pulled Tiffany onto the dance floor.

Quinn looked over at Sandi and leaned in and whispered. “Is she?”
“It’s the test. She gets the same scores for women that she gets for men so she’s curious but I think that’s all.” Sandi replied not looking concerned.

“Look at her go.” Stacy cheered as Tiffany and the other girl danced away. “She’s not.” Stacy said without a doubt.

“Good evening Stacy.” A mild voice said politely and Quinn turned and let her jaw drop.

“You’re the gay teacher.” Sandi said surprised.

“Yes.” The woman said as she pulled over a chair and joined them at the table.
:Wait till I tell Daria.: Quinn thought with a grin.



Helen Morgendorffer picked up the ringing phone and answer. “Hello Morgendorffer residence. Helen speaking.”

“Mrs. Morgendorffer this is Danny.” Her daughter’s girlfriend said on the other end of the line.

“Good evening Danny. Quinn asked me to have you call her on her cell.” Helen said with a smile.

“I called to speak with you.” Danny said sounding tired.

“Really. What can I do for you?” Helen asked curious.

“Post my bail.” Danny sighed.

Part 7.

“I’m really not drunk. I had one sex on the beach and switched to diet soda after that.” Quinn complained as she watched Stacy walk up her steps.

“And Sandi wasn’t drunk either I suppose.” Claire Dafoe smiled as she drove the SUV following Quinn’s directions.

“No she was really drunk. Something about all the woman hitting on her was making her nervous.” Quinn laughed.

“She is very attractive but then all you girls are. I believe that was your thing.” Claire chuckled nicely.

“It was nice of your friends to drive Sandi’s and your car so you don’t have to take a taxi.” Quinn added.

“I didn’t want anyone to get in trouble if their parents needed the cars in the morning.” Claire answered.

“It’s still nice.” Quinn nodded.

“I was surprised to discover where Tiffany lived.” Claire replied.

“She doesn’t. That’s where Jeffy lives. Tiffany is not very subtle about what she wants.” Quinn shrugged.

“Ohhhh. So Jeffy is going to get a nice surprise in a few minutes.” Claire said smugly.

“Well I think that was his parent’s room she was sneaking in so I’d say a really big surprise.” Quinn snickered.

“Oh dear me.” Claire couldn’t stop the smile as she tried to look shocked.

“Teenagers!” Came a voice from the back seat.

“Be polite. You could have rode with Tina in my car after we dropped off Sandi and her’s.” Claire said sternly.

“And have her talk my ear off no thank you.” The reclining woman retorted.

“You aren’t going to get us banned at the club are you?” Quinn asked nervously.

“No and while I don’t approve of underage drinking sometimes life overwhelms us.” Claire sighed.

“Stacy said you two talk sometimes.” Quinn said.

“Sometimes it’s nice to talk to teens that are going through what I did. I’m not interested in a younger woman if that’s crossed your mind.” Claire responded honestly

“What’s it like being grown and not having to worry about what anyone thinks?” Quinn asked.

“Ha.” The woman in the backseat snorted.

“In some ways it’s easier because there isn’t anyone that can restrict what you do. In other ways it’s harder. At the school if a student is discovered to be gay there might be a meeting to make sure the student isn’t being abused in some fashion by the other students. If a teacher is gay we have to sign a behavior agreement to ensure we won’t try to influence the students.” Claire sighed.

“Do they know about you?” Quinn said softly.

“Yes and technically tonight and every time I’ve spoken with Stacy at the club is enough to have me fired.” Claire said casually.

“I won’t tell anyone.” Quinn promised and made a mental note to inform Sandi and Tiffany to keep this secret beyond any other.

“Thank you but I don’t think they’re going to be bragging about hanging out at a gay bar to their parents.” Claire laughed.
Quinn laughed as she pictured Sandi talking to her parents about this evening.

“But moom they kept buying me drinks and saying how cute I looked.” Quinn said imitating Sandi.

“It surprised me how well she handled herself in that environment.” Claire mused.

“Ya. I haven’t been giving people a lot of credit but it was really cool that they were willing to be there with me even though it was weird for them.” Quinn said with a happy smile.

“I can’t say that people won’t disappoint you but I’ve found it’s better to believe in the goodness in everyone than expect the worst.” Claire answered.

“I keep expecting someone to turn around and start yelling at me like in the movies.” Quinn shuddered.

“Sadly it will happen at some point but after a while it’s more funny than hurtful.” Claire said sadly.

“Are you involved with the class at the school?” Quinn asked as she pointed to her house.

“Class! What class?”Claire asked looking confused.

“The gay teen support class.” Quinn said surprised by the change in her teacher’s mood.

“Oh god, please not O’Neil.” Claire groaned loudly as she pulled into the driveway and the car that was following them stayed on the street.
The woman in the back seat hurried to the car and got in as Claire got out and sighed.

“It’s another one of Angela’s attempts at damage control I’m sure.” She said and waved Quinn toward the house.

Quinn was curious but she decided it wasn’t the time or place so she walked to the front door and entered. No one seemed to be home and that was something in her favor as the smell of cigarette smoke and alcohol seemed to have sunk into her clothes.
:That was fun but I still don’t know if I’m letting Danny anywhere near that meat market.: Quinn thought giggling as she went upstairs to shower and change.


Danny sat in the holding cell looking out across the room of police officers to her parents sitting in another cell on the opposite side of the room.
:Why didn’t I run when I had the chance.: She groaned and shifted trying to keep the ice on her knee and hand at the same time.
:Congratulations for screwing up enough to make the big leagues.: She thought rudely.

“Your lawyer is here.” One of the officers said through the bars and she heard the key in the lock.

“Um…ok.” Danny said surprised and she looked down at her knee and tried to keep her face from showing how much it hurt when she slid it to the floor and stood.

“You sure you don’t need a doctor?” The cop asked looking concerned.

“I’ll be alright.” She responded as she limped next to him toward what appeared to be a small office.

“You lawyer is waiting in there. I’ll be out here waiting.” He said sternly as he opened the door and waited for her to enter.
The door closed and she groaned as Helen Morgendorffer seemed to be going over the police reports with a sour expression.

“I’m really sorry about this.” Danny said and she noticed that Helen didn’t even take notice.
:This isn’t good.: She thought nervously.

“Please don’t make Quinn break up with me. I swear I’m not a troublemaker.” Danny said desperately.

Helen sighed and stopped reading long enough to look at her. “I don’t know how things work in your family but in our family we don’t expect people to turn off their feelings just because it might not be convenient.” Helen said in a reproachful tone.

“I have the money for bail. I can pay you back.” Danny tried sounding chastised.

“There is no bail. You are 18 as a month or so ago so that means this is a domestic abuse case. I’m trying to convince them to not make you sit for the 24 hours to give you time to find alternative living arrangements.” Helen said softly.

“What?” Danny gasped.

“Your parents feel it would be best if you moved out. At least that’s what they told the detective in charge of this case.” Helen said trying to keep her voice calm.

Danny moved to the wall and slid to the floor and pulled her long legs to her chest. “I can’t believe they’re kicking me out.” She said stunned.

“Apparently they are claiming this isn’t the first problem that’s occurred.” Helen said as she moved over next to the sitting girl.

“I’ve never touched her before.” Danny started to cry.

“The arguments count. Just be glad your father’s statement matches yours on all the major points or you would be facing assault charges.” Helen said taking a seat on the floor and wrapping an arm around the crying girl.

“Everything was going so good.” Danny cried.

“What happened?” Helen said and Danny heard the lawyer take back over from the mother.

“We were having dinner and she asked about Quinn and then she started saying things about her. I tried to walk away. I did.” Danny said defending herself even though no one was questioning her.

“What kind of things?” Helen asked.

“Like she was a slut and a tramp. Things like that. I told her Quinn was a virgin and she laughed. I tried to leave and she grabbed me and told me I had to break up with Quinn to spare the family anymore embarrassment and I said no. She yelled, I just laughed and then she slapped me and I spit in her face. After that it was a real fight with my dad trying to separate us. Is he ok? I didn’t mean to hit him.” Danny said as she cried.

“First I need you to calm down. Second he’s fine.” Helen said nicely but there was a coldness that scared Danny just a little.
“Ok.” She said trying to get her chest to stop hitching.

“How bad are you hurt?” Helen said looking at the bruise on her chin and the slightly swollen hand and knee.

“I wrenched my knee when my dad fell on me and well I guess you know how I hurt my hand.” Danny laughed as she wiped at her face.

“Do you need to see a doctor?” Helen said cautiously.

Danny just shook her head. “I just need a soak and about 10 hours of sleep.”

“OK. I’m going to go speak with the detective. If I’m right the fact that you are still a student and therefore still considered under your parent’s authority I can get you out of here in a few minutes.” Helen said confidently.

Danny glanced at her doubtfully but indeed within a matter of minutes Danny was buckling into the rear seat as Jake moved to the passenger seat after helping her into the car.
“I have some money for a hotel room.” Danny started and Helen interrupted her.

“I have a problem letting a girl I just argued was a child stay in some flea bag hotel.” Helen sighed.

“So where am I going to stay?” Danny said hopefully.

“I’m going to regret this. You’ll be staying with us.” Helen groaned.

Danny tried not to look overjoyed at the news.

“Oh boy.” Jake said.

“Me and Quinn will be on our best behavior.” Danny promised.

“Liar.” Helen smirked without malice.



Quinn heard her parents pull into the driveway and she started down the stairs to greet them. The door swung open and she couldn’t understand what her mother was talking about.

“Jake be careful. I’ll get the door.” Helen was saying sounding stressed.

Quinn grabbed the door and opened it the rest of the way and saw her father standing there carrying Danny.
“DANNY!” Quinn yelled and she rushed her father only to be grabbed and dragged into the house by her mother.

“I’m fine. I can walk.” Danny said trying to calm Quinn who looked on the verge of a panic attack.

“What happened?” Quinn demanded as she struggled to free herself from her mother.

“I got in a fight with my parents and we all ended up in jail.” Danny sighed.

“She called and asked for me to bail her out so I went down and used a loophole to get her out and prevent any charges from being filed.” Helen informed her.

“But you’re hurt.” Quinn said as Jake set Danny down on the couch. Helen let Quinn go then and smiled as her daughter started checking Danny for any further injuries.

Quinn took several minutes to inspect Danny before relaxing and starting to worry over her.

“I’m ok. Tomorrow I’ll be stiff but then I’ll be fine.” Danny promised her smiling.

“I’ll take care of you.” Quinn said. “Let’s get you into a hot bath.”
Danny blushed with an amused smile.

Jake started coughing and Quinn blushed realizing what she had said and in front of who.

“I guess this is a good time to bring up the fact that just because Danny is staying here for a short period of time doesn’t give you permission to . to ..” Helen found herself unable to finish.

“Mooom.” Quinn blushed.

“Is that the phone?”Jake said and he hurried out of the room nervously.

“Try to keep your hormones in check … at least part of the time.” Helen sighed.
Quinn moved off the couch and followed her mother into the kitchen.

“Mom?” Quinn said confused.

“I don’t know Quinn. Things are a little confusing but I couldn’t very well let her go to a hotel. Her parents want her out of the house before they get released and that gives us until around 9 pm tomorrow to get her belongings.” Helen said looking angry.

“What happened?” Quinn asked as she filled several Ziploc bags with ice.

“…” Helen said and she blushed. “Does it matter right now?” Helen responded after a short pause.
Quinn shrugged and returned to the living room with the ice feeling more than a little confused.

“Hey Beautiful.” Danny smiled as Quinn started piling the ice on her knee.

“Hey yourself.” Quinn said and she sighed guiltily.

“Something wrong?” Danny asked.

“I went out tonight with my friends while you were sitting in jail beat up.” Quinn admitted.

“Umm I heard the message on my voicemail in the car over here. How was the club?” Danny asked looking envious.

“How was the club! … You were beat up and you ask me how was the club.” Quinn said annoyed and she seemed prepared to go into a rant.

Danny grabbed Quinn and pulled her into a close kiss and Quinn melted against her.

“Oh god.” Quinn said as a thousand thoughts all forced themselves to the forefront of her mind and all of them would give her father another heart attack if he walked in.

“I try to be modest but you’ll make it really hard if you keep calling me god.” Danny smirked playfully.

“Let’s get you upstairs. I’m guessing Mom wants me to put you in the guest room.” Quinn sighed.

“I’m good to walk but I might need some help up the stairs.” Danny said looking over at the staircase.

Quinn smirked and helped Danny to her feet and tossed the taller girl’s arm over her shoulder and let it dangle around her neck. “Now don’t get fresh while I’m distracted and trying to not drop the two of us down the steps.
“I swear.” Danny said solemnly.

Quinn slowed started up the steps supporting Danny’s weight and it wasn’t until they made in to the upper hall that Danny decided to pinch.

“Be good.” Quinn said without any conviction as she directed them to the guest room.

“Fine.” Danny smiled then winced as she twisted her leg awkwardly.

“Easy.” Quinn said as they moved into the room and she helped Danny into a wooden chair next to the bed.

“Let me put some sheets on the bed.” Quinn said as she stripped the bed down and moved to the room’s closet and started looking disgustedly at the sheets there. “One second.” She said and left the room.

“Ok, silk, satin or flannel.” Quinn said returning with three sets of sheets.

“Flannel.” Danny laughed.

Quinn quickly made the bed and Danny leaned back and enjoyed the view as Quinn crawled around on the bed trying to remove every wrinkle.

“I’m not a princess and I wouldn’t feel a pea unless you tossed a can of them at me.” Danny smirked.

Quinn laughed and then turned on the bed looking thoughtful. “Why would anyone want someone who couldn’t sleep on a perfect bed that was forty mattresses thick because of a pea? Isn’t that like asking for someone who will always be unhappy? Is that what men think woman are?” Quinn mused.

“Ok. I was kidding. But I think it was more of an insult against nobility. I always thought it was saying that they were stupid enough to believe some peasant girl who was just trying to get out of the rain for the night.” Danny shrugged.

“And of course she got the Prince. Like any girl would be happy to marry so guy who needed a test to decide who was good enough to marry.” Quinn smirked.

“Like a girl with a dating system.” Danny said carefully.

Quinn got quiet and thoughtful again. “Damn it.”

“I still love you.” Danny said as she switched between the chair to the bed.

“I don’t deserve you.” Quinn said sadly.

“Deserve doesn’t have a thing to do with it.” Danny said and grabbed Quinn’s hand and held it to her heart as she held her hand to Quinn’s. “This is all that matters.”

“I love you too.” Quinn said pushing Danny back on to the bed and kissing her.

“Quinn I think you’ve helped Danny get to the room enough. It’s well past time for bed.” Helen Morgendorffer called from the hallway.
“Ughhh.” Quinn groaned.

“I’m a little sore at the moment. Maybe it’s better to wait until I’m at full strength.” Danny said comforting.

Quinn sighed and kissed Danny softly before climbing off the bed. “Night.” She said as she scooped up the removed sheets and carried them out of the room, pausing only to turn off the light at Danny’s request.

“Oh I forgot those sheets were still on the bed. It’s been awhile since anyone has used the guest room.” Helen tried not to laugh at the expression of frustration on Quinn’s face.

“Thank you for helping Danny.” Quinn said as she dropped the sheets into the laundry hamper in the linen closet.

“Sometimes even something that isn’t a good idea is the right thing.” Helen said wisely and then turned serious. “Plus now I have additional control to push for you two to attend the class at school.”

“You wouldn’t.” Quinn gasped and judged her mother’s face. “Oh god you would.”

“Just something to think about.” Helen said smugly as she joined her husband in their bedroom.

“That’s just wrong.” Quinn said as she entered her own room.

Part 8



Quinn checked the guest room and found it empty after she finished dressing for school. She moved downstairs and heard her father joking loudly in the kitchen.

“And then Daria called the fire department and they laddered me down from the tree.” Jake laughed.

“Hi Quinn.” Danny smiled as Quinn walked into the room. “Your dad is regaling me with his ballooning trip.”

“Good Morning kiddo.” Jake smiled from where he stood by the stove making something that smelled edible.

“Morning.” Quinn returned as she grabbed one of her breakfast shakes from the fridge.

“So I guess you aren’t going to school today.” Quinn smirked at Danny.

“Nope. Helen is taking me to get my stuff and secure my bank accounts before my parents get released.” Danny sighed.

“It’ll be ok. Maybe after they calm down things will work out.” Quinn said reassuringly.

“Ya wait and see. Then get depressed. ..If things don’t work out.” Jake tried making both of the girls smile.

“Here kiddo, take my car.” Jake smiled holding out his keys. “I’ll have Mom drop me off at the office on her way to help Danny.”
Quinn beamed and snagged the keys. “Thank you daddy.”

“I think you might want to hurry.” Danny smirked pointing at the clock.

“Opps. I have to go.” Quinn said noticing she was due at school in 15 minutes. With a quick kiss for Danny she dashed out of the house and into her father’s Lexus.

“Now this is a car.” Quinn said to herself as she pulled out of the driveway and headed toward the school.

She arrived to school just in time for the first bell and hurried to her first period class and slid next to Sandi who was amusing herself going through Quinn’s datebook.
“Having fun.” Quinn said and Sandi smirked.

“I am planning my weekend thank you.” Sandi said nicely.

“So who’s it going to be?” Quinn laughed and noticed that Sandi seemed to be fine despite being completely trashed the night before.

“I’m thinking Jamie. He is already used to fetching things and he looks so good in a jacket.” Sandi informed her.

“If you can get him away from Jeffy and Joey for more than 30 seconds he would be perfect for you.” Quinn nodded.

“Well Tiffany has Jeffy on a short leash. So that’s not a problem.” Sandi laughed lightly.
Quinn smiled and wondered how it went for those two the night before.

“Study time and she looks ready to stress.” Sandi sighed as the teacher entered the room.

“I thought DeMartino was bad but she’s a ticking bomb.” Quinn replied as she pulled out her French book.

“Her hair already looks like it exploded.” Sandi teased.

“Books away. Paper and pencil only. Pop quiz.” The stiffly dressed teacher said with a stern voice.

“Une fois de plus dans la culasse!” Sandi said as she followed the instructions.

“I hate you.” Quinn groaned.

“En francais svp.” Sandi teased.

“Je vous … ummm … deteste.” Quinn had to think about her answer.

“Quiet back there.” The teacher instructed looking at them annoyed.
The friends managed to control the laughter that tried to break free.

“Laisse maintenant a commence. Je prends du pain vous prends le fromage?” The teacher began the test.


Quinn’s next class paired her with Tiffany and Stacy in math. Quinn made sure to tell Sandi about not bringing up running into Miss. Dafoe at the club and she adamantly agreed.

“Hi Quinn.” Stacy said with a smile.

“You … let … me … climb … in … the … wrong … window.” Tiffany scolded her.

“Sorry but it was sort of funny. How bad did you get busted?” Quinn asked trying not to look amused.

“They … are … out … of … town.” Tiffany said with an evil smile.

“So is Jeffy smiling today?” Quinn laughed and covered her mouth.

“Yes.” Tiffany answered.

“Told you.” Stacy said and then indicated the teacher was up and moving.

“Good morning class. Open your books and try to follow along. Today we are covering statistics.” The teacher started his droning lecture.

“I saw you driving your dad’s car. No Danny.” Stacy said looking worried.

“It’s not a school safe story but she’s ok and I’ll be seeing her tonight.” Quinn whispered back to her.
“Ok.” Stacy nodded.


“My shoes are gone!” One of the cheerleaders said as Quinn returned to her locker to change after her shower.
Quinn paused and listened.

“Someone got mine yesterday.” Another girl complained.

:That’s weird.: Quinn thought as she hurried and checked her locker gratefully her shoes were still safe.
She made her way to the lunch room and grabbed their table and waited for the others to arrive.

“I am not happy.” Sandi said slamming her tray down onto the table.

“What?” Quinn tried not to smile.

“Some low life pervert stole my shoes while I was in gym.” Sandi fumed.

“You too!” Quinn responded in surprise.

“What?” Sandi demanded and Quinn quickly explained about her shoes and the comments she overheard in the locker room today.

“So someone is going around stealing shoes.” Sandi said looking upset.

“You heard already.” Stacy said as she and Tiffany joined them.
Quinn turned intrigued to look at them.

“I heard that they are about to do a locker check for shoes. Someone stole a pair from the teacher’s lounge.” Stacy explained.

“This is just weird.” Quinn said.

“It’s … creepy.” Tiffany shuddered and she glanced down at her shoes as if expecting to find them gone.

“What would someone want with a bunch of shoes?” Quinn mused.

“I don’t even want to think about it and I certainly don’t want them back after they’re done.” Sandi retorted.

“C’mon guys this is like on TV. It’s a mystery. We could solve it just like those kids do.” Stacy said sound excited.

“OK who votes that Stacy stops watching Nickelodeon.” Quinn sighed.

“I for one do not want to spend the day unmasking dirty old men.” Sandi agreed.

“It was just an idea.” Stacy frowned disappointed.

“I’ll …help …you.” Tiffany relented.

“Good now the first thing we need to do is find clues.” Stacy said thoughtfully.

“A place to start might be to find out just how many shoes have been taken and whose shoes.” Quinn offered feeling bad for dumping on the girl.

“Good point. C’mon Tiffany.” Stacy said and she dragged off her new crime fighting buddy.

“This isn’t going to end well.” Sandi said looking worried.

“Nope but I don’t think they can fall down any wells here at school.” Quinn admitted.


Quinn dropped first Stacy and then Sandi off at their houses all of them spending the drive creating versions of what would be occurring on Tiffany’s ride home with Jeffy.
Quinn climbed out of the car and whistled happily as she walked up to the house snagging a box that was sitting next to the open backdoor of her mother’s SUV.

“Have fun at school dear?” Helen asked as she came out the front door just as Quinn reached it.

“Pretty good. I’ll tell you all about the Lawndale shoe bandit later.” Quinn joked and continued up the stairs to the guest room.

“Hey you.” Danny smiled as Quinn entered.

“I see you got your stuff.” Quinn smirked.

“I rented a storage shed for most of my junk at least until the dust settles.” Danny shrugged.
The two girls started down the stairs to get the last of the boxes talking.

“My brother isn’t too surprised by the fight. He says he’s been expecting it for while.” Danny sighed.

“Can I ask why?” Quinn pressed lightly.

“It’s complicated and I swear I’ll tell you but give me a little while. Ok.” Danny replied.

“Ok. How’s your knee?” Quinn said as they arrived at the Explorer and started grabbing boxes.

“It’s fine. A hot soak this morning and I was right as rain.” Danny answered.

“Quinn Morgendorffer what is this about you drinking?” Helen said coming back out of the house holding the phone to her ear.

“I’m so toast.” Quinn groaned.

“Why am I suddenly happy to have been in jail last night?” Danny smirked.


Helen Morgendorffer paced the floor looking like she was about to eat nails.

“Mom I’m sorry I drank but I only had one and I didn’t drive afterwards.” Quinn tried.
Helen simply shot a dirty look at her daughter.

“I have to find out about this from Stacy’s parents who aren’t too pleased with their daughter at the moment.” Helen fumed.

“I screwed up but please don’t blame Danny she wasn’t even there.” Quinn switched gears to protect what was most important to her.

“They wouldn’t tell me how they found out and who drove the cars home but you will.” Helen said forcefully.

“I can’t.” Quinn sighed. “They didn’t do anything wrong and people would assume they did just because it looks bad.”
Danny suddenly understood and seemed to start reading one of Jake’s fishing magazines.

“It seems that all of you are sticking to that. Linda Griffin and Mary Blum-Decker got the same stonewall from their daughters. I’m assuming this person you are all protecting is an adult. Are they dating Stacy or one of the others?” Helen pressed.

“NO!” Quinn gasped.

Helen seemed to judge the answer and moved on. “Quinn have you drank before?”
Quinn lowered her head and nodded yes.

“Ok so you seem to be taking the honest route to avoid making things worse.” Helen sighed.
Helen paced the kitchen floor and watched as Quinn squirmed.

“What if I promised to not allow the identity of the person to leave this room? Even if I feel that person needs to be addressed it would be done privately without any form of repercussions. As long as nothing criminal is occurring.” Helen said.

“Huh.” Quinn said surprised.

“Obviously the Rowe’s know who this person is and they feel comfortable enough to allow continued interaction so I’m guessing it can’t be too bad.” Helen sighed again.

Quinn glanced at Danny who nodded.

“You promise.” Quinn said weakly.

“Yes.” Helen said annoyed.

“It’s a teacher at the school.” Quinn said.

“Ahhhh. That explains why you girls are protecting her. I’m assuming it’s a her since they just happened to be at a gay
club last night. If she’s trying to date a student I’ll have to break my word.” Helen sighed.

“No. She isn’t, she just talked to us, it was kinda of nice being able to talk to an adult who understands and isn’t trying to judge us. She wasn’t happy about us drinking but she didn’t want anyone to drive home afterward so she and some of her friends drove the cars and dropped all of us off.”

“Ok sounds perfectly legitimate and I’m guessing that’s why the Stacy’s parents aren’t upset. Who is this teacher?” Helen demanded.

“Miss. Dafoe. The art teacher.” Quinn said weakly looking ashamed and worried.

“I’ve met her. She certainly seems nice enough, one of the few teachers at that school that doesn’t make me want to scream and since you haven’t lied to me tonight I see no reason to cause trouble for her.” Helen said leaning over the table at Quinn and fixed her daughter with a glare hot enough to melt lead. “But understand me. If I find out that anything is going on that I wouldn’t approve of then there will be hell to pay.”

“Eep.” Quinn said shrinking into the chair.

“And I will be calling the club of which you are going to provide me with the name and believe me when I say that they won’t be serving any of you anymore.” Helen barked. “I will try to prevent them from barring you as I can understand a need to have someplace to go to.” She ended calmer.

“Thank you.” Quinn responded.

Helen picked up the phone and Quinn saw her hit the speed dial marked for Stacy before walking out of the room.

Danny watched her leave and whistled. “That was intense.”

“I thought she was going to kick you out and wall me up in the basement.” Quinn admitted.

“You’ve been reading Poe.” Danny said smiling.

“Daria left her copy behind.” Quinn shrugged.


Helen returned to the kitchen and smirked at the two girls.

“Oh no.” Quinn sighed.

“I take it that the class is on.” Danny sighed as well.

Helen frowned and then answered. “Yes it is and as the parents of gay children we are going to complain about a male teacher being in charge of the class. The Rowe’s are on board after last night. So at least that man O’Neil won’t be running the class. I believe that was one of your biggest objections.” Helen sighed in disappointment at their guessing.

“Fine.” Quinn said beaten. Danny just shrugged and nodded.

“Now what is this about a shoe bandit?” Helen asked looking amused.




“But I’ve done so much research.” Mr. O’Neil said in Mrs. Li office.

“I’m sorry but the parents of some of the girls think it might be hard for the girls to open up to a male teacher.” Mrs. Li said without emotion.

“But I made worksheets.” O’Neil got sad looking.

“Give it to Barch. She’ll be starting the class.” Li said in a dismissive tone.

“But …” O’Neil started.

“No arguments. I have students turning gay left and right and someone stealing shoes all over the place and my security cameras are missing. I don’t have time to hold your hand.” Li said sternly.

He shuffled out of the room looking like a kicked puppy.




Stacy looked lower than dirt when Quinn and Danny found her before school.

“I’m so sorry.” Stacy cried as they ducked into their bathroom.

“Why?” Danny asked.

“Miss. Dafoe called my parents to have them talk to me about drinking at the club and she told them everything.” Stacy wailed.

“Why didn’t you tell us that she knew your parents?” Quinn sighed.

“It’s a long story.” Stacy answered looking terrified.

“There are a lot of those going around these days.” Quinn smirked looking over at Danny.

“Any news on the shoe bandit?” Danny laughed.

“Not yet but I set a trap in the locker room.” Stacy said and she started toward the door.

“It doesn’t involve an anvil does it?” Quinn joked.

“Stacy, … come back here. It doesn’t does it?” Quinn said and she rushed after Stacy with Danny laughing as she tried to keep up.

Quinn knocked into Mr. O’Neil and knocked him to the floor and causing his drink to fly up and then land on his head. Red crushed ice dripped down his head.

“Sorry gotta run.” Quinn said without stopping.

“How’s it going Mr. O’Neil.” Danny said stopping long enough to hold out her hand to help him to his feet.

“I’m having a bad day and it seems ….” O’Neil started before realizing Danny had followed behind Quinn quickly.

“Oh well.” He sighed.

“I got em. I got em.” Stacy was screaming in joy as Quinn and Danny followed her into the locker room.

“You …were …right ...they …went …after …the …expensive …shoes.” Tiffany said from the locker room pointing toward a tarp covered body.

“Somebody GET this tarp OFF me.” A familiar voice called out.

“Oh no.” Quinn sighed.
Danny pulled the tarp off of Mr. DeMartino and smirked. :This is going to be good.:

“I can’t believe I caught Mr. DeMartino rather than the shoe bandit.” Stacy whined.

“Talk.” Quinn sighed. “Before someone walks in on four girls in the locker room with a male teacher.”

“Five.” Sandi smirked as she came out of hiding on top of a row of lockers carrying a video camera.

“I’ll block the door.” Danny said.

“Do you know how MUCH a teacher makes in this city? I’LL tell you. NOT much.” He answered.

“So you’re stealing shoes.” Sandi exclaimed.

“NO. I’m stealing THE security cameras. The shoes WERE just to convince Li to replace THEM.” DeMartino admitted.

“This town is really weird.” Danny sighed.

“I want my shoes back.” Sandi demanded.

“FINE. Are you going to TURN me in?” DeMartino asked.

“We might get a calmer teacher.” Sandi mused.

“But it might be another O’Neil.” Quinn sighed. “Bring the shoes back and stop pilfering things.”

“I WON’T fix anyone’s GRADES.” DeMartino promised.

“That’s fine.” Quinn nodded.

“But I get credit for catching him right.” Stacy said.

“From us but this goes into the nobody can ever know category.” Sandi declared.

“Like …when …Quinn …got …a …” Tiffany started.

“YES just like that.” Quinn blushed.

“Someone is going to share that story with me tonight.” Danny smirked.

“It’ll be your bedtime story if you eat all your vegetables.” Quinn smiled seductively.

Part 9

Danny pitched the tent as Quinn started gathering wood for a fire.
:I didn’t think they were going to allow this after all the excitement during the week.: Danny thought pleased.

“These boots are really comfortable.” Quinn said returning with an armload of wood.

“Well they are meant for someone to do a lot of hard walking in.” Danny said.

“So what’s for dinner?” Quinn said as she stacked the wood and lit it with a grill lighter.

“Hot dogs and canned soup.” Danny laughed.

“What … you mean we aren’t living off the land!” Quinn took on an aspect of mock shock.

“Well if you really want to eat grubs and berries then I’ll help you collect them.” Danny smirked.

“Ewww. Hotdogs will be fine.” Quinn grimaced in disgust.
Danny set up her telescope and pulled out the chart and quickly checked the sky. Quinn watched amused as Danny marked down several notes on the chart before looking over at her.

“What are these numbers?” Quinn asked indicating the chart.

“Positions of stars and planets. It allows us to chart their movement and tell how fast everything is really moving out there.
Quinn looked at the numbers then exclaimed. “So this star is moving at 45 thousand miles per hour!”

“What …how … how did you do that?” Danny said impressed and she pulled out her calculator to confirm Quinn’s number.

“It just makes sense.” Quinn shrugged.

“Well it is but bear in mind that the earth is moving around the sun at about 65 thousand miles per hour.” Danny said.

“So we’re going faster.” Quinn said.

“Not exactly the sun is moving just like this star is and we’re along for the ride. So why the earth is orbiting at that speed
it’s also moving at 43 thousand miles per hour with the sun.” Danny explained.

“Ouch.” Quinn smiled and she held up her hands. “To much science for the weekend.”

“Ok. Come take a look at Venus.” Danny smiled.

“Oh you romantic.” Quinn laughed as she peered through the telescope.
Danny laughed and stuck a few hot dogs on a stick she prepared for this occasion and balanced it just about the fire. Next came the camping pot that she placed in the fire once she poured the soup into it.

“Food’s cooking.” Danny said turning back and smiling at Quinn aweing at the stars.

“This is really amazing. So that’s really a planet? Just like Earth.” Quinn said truly amazed.

“Well except for the clouds of sulfuric acid and intense atmospheric pressure.” Danny smirked.

“Smart ass.” Quinn countered.
Quinn moved over next Danny and snuggled against her next to the fire.

“This is nice.” Quinn whispered.

“Yes it is.” Danny said wrapping an arm around her.

“Don’t let me stop you from star gazing.” Quinn insisted.

“Can’t really do it from this altitude anyway.” Danny shrugged.

“Girls do you have everything you need?” Helen called from the backdoor.

“Yes Mom.” Quinn groaned. “Talk about destroying the atmosphere.”

“It’s cool. After that little trip drinking we’re lucky they’re letting us do this.” Danny said sternly.

“I know.” Quinn sighed.

“Look we’re young and we’re going to break the rules but that was really dangerous. What if Miss. Dafoe hadn’t been there?” Danny pushed.

“I’ll never do it again. I promise.” Quinn said with a kiss.

“I’m not talking about the drinking. I don’t see anything wrong with it in moderation but what if someone had started a fight or the club had been raided.” Danny said seriously.

“Ok.” Quinn frowned.

“I worry is all. I don’t have a lot going for me and the best thing I’ve ever had is right now with you and I really don’t want to lose it.” Danny said rubbing Quinn’s shoulders.

“You’re the only thing I’ve ever had. I screwed up and it could have caused all kinds of problems and not just for us.” Quinn admitted.

“I know you were kinda of hoping that Dafoe was going to be in charge of the class but Barch didn’t do a bad job.” Danny said with a grin.

“Of course not. It’s an anti man class. She’s having the time of her life.” Quinn chuckled.

“Hot dogs are done.” Danny laughed and pulled the stick away from the fire and grabbed the buns.

“Did I ever tell you the story about when Daria convinced me they were made of a special kind of dog that isn’t a pet? I cried for an hour when Mom tried to buy some at the store.” Quinn said shaking her head.

“I think you did. Is that the one when you closed yourself into the freezer at the store?” Danny smiled remembering.

“That’s the one.” Quinn laughed.

“So what time do you think she’ll be out here doing a sleeping bag check?” Danny asked nodding toward the house.

“Every hour on the hour.” Quinn shrugged.

“So no sharing I guess.” Danny sighed.



“Can I go to bed now?” Jake complained.

“Yes I checked on them and they’re sound asleep in separate bags holding each other.” Helen smiled as she climbed into bed.

“We got a great kid there and Danny’s great too.” Jake said getting comfortable.

“I guess we should be happy that Quinn hasn’t tossed away her life by getting knocked up by one of those stupid boys that always followed her around. It was nowhere near as bad as the things we got up to at her age.” Helen said.

“We don’t have to worry about that now.” Jake joked.

“True but it’s only been a few weeks. Things are moving very fast for both of them.” Helen cautioned.




Sunday morning came and Danny walked down Aston Street doing a little window shopping to pass the time and amuse herself while Quinn and her mother where in church when her cell phone rang.
“Hello.” She said as she answered it.

“Hi Dad.” She said almost cheerfully.

“Sure but I think it needs to be some place public.” Danny sighed.

“Ya the giant strawberry, I know where it is. I can be there in twenty minutes.” Danny said as she turned and started walking back to her car.

Danny quickly texted both Quinn and Helen as she got in the car, informing them of the meeting and the location. She had just arrived at the landmark when she got the responses. The area around the strawberry was filled with food vendors and families enjoying the fall weather.
“Duznt dis fall undR d hol realy danjrus catergory. ILU” She received from Quinn.
Helen’s was more practical. “BCful n dnt mak Ny promises.”
Danny laughed at Quinn’s message but wearily agreed she had a point.

She saw her parents driving up in their Shelby. She grabbed an order of cheese fries from a roadside vender and took a seat at one of the picnic tables.
She watched her parents approach and tried to keep her heart under control.

“Hello Danielle.” Her father said and her mother nodded.

“Hi Dad, Mom.” Danny said pleasantly and waited.

Her parents took a seat and looked lost for a few moments before her father sighed.

“We want you to come home.”
Danny was surprised and she coughed on the French fry she was eating.

“Don’t even get smug little girl.” Susan sighed nicely.

“I’m shocked. I mean I figured you were going to read me the riot act or something.” Danny admitted.

“We made a mistake and we don’t want to lose our baby over it.” Greg smiled.

“I shouldn’t have yelled or anything else, it’s just I’m in love with someone and out of nowhere you started attacking
them.” Danny conceded.

“Do you know Skyler Feldman?” Susan sighed.

Danny groaned. “Yes. Is that what this about? Quinn dumping some rich jerk for a richer jerk.”

“You know they dated!” Susan said surprised.

“It was one date and he apparently got upset that Quinn was already looking to trade up on him for a guy with a ski lodge.” Danny sighed.
Greg seemed to be amused by this information.

“We had a day of golf with the Feldman’s and well they didn’t have anything very nice to say about Quinn.” Greg chuckled.

“So you took the work of a spurned exboyfriend over mine.” Danny shook her head sadly.

“I’m sorry Danielle but lets be honest. Communication with you isn’t always easy.” Susan apologized.

“I’ve done everything you asked. I just … it just gets hard sometimes.” Danny struggled with what she was trying to say.

“Talk to us.” Greg pushed.

“Before the money I was the helper. I had a job and it helped cover the bills and I helped out in the garage while you fixed trucks. I liked it and then after the money I felt like I was suddenly grungy.” Danny stated strongly.

“Explain it to us.” Susan said calmly.

“All of a sudden I didn’t fit. That’s not ladylike, ladies don’t shuck horse stalls or go out with their friends mudding. I never thought we had a bad life, not that I mind having money.” Danny ended with a laugh.

“I always treated you like a boy because you weren’t like your sisters and I missed having a little boy running around. They wanted dolls and you asked for a telescope, they had tea parties and you played with wrenches. I still remember you sitting next to a rig holding a sandwich for me to eat so I wouldn’t have to stop to wash up.” Greg smiled.

“I loved those times. After the money came the classes.” Danny teared up a little.

“I just wanted to help you find the girl inside of you. It broke my heart to see you running around all the time in your brother’s hand-me-downs. I sent you to those classes to learn how to be more of a girl.” Susan said.

“I had two older sisters. I could have worn their stuff but I liked blue-jeans and sweats. I don’t wear them now except to go hiking or hanging out but it just seemed like you were sending me places to be fixed. And you only fix something that’s broken.” Danny blushed at the shaking in her voice.

“I never thought that.” Susan said wiping at the tears that escaped.

“What do you say Danny. Give us another shot.” Greg said hopefully.

Danny looked at her parents and sighed.
“No.” She said with a sad smile as her parents looked crushed. “It’s too soon. Maybe we could start getting together regularly and see if the center holds. Like maybe for dinners or something like that.” Danny said.

“You’re scared it will go back to the way it was.” Susan understood.

“I can respect that.” Greg nodded. “Maybe you could bring Quinn to dinner too.”

“I think you two will really like her. She a real girly girl.” Danny smiled.




Danny arrived back at the Morgendorffers and answered her phone that had been ringing every ten seconds since she left her parents feeling better than she had in a long time.

“Hi Baby.” Danny answered with a smile as she parked.

“Everything went ok. I’ll tell you when I get to the house.” Danny smirked as she opened the front door quietly.

“Well I don’t know. It could be awhile.” Danny answered.

“They aren’t doing anything are they?” Danny heard Quinn say from the kitchen.
Danny walked behind Quinn quietly as she could.

“Danny, are you there? Stupid cell phones.” Quinn groaned.
Danny reached around and hugged Quinn from behind and smirked as Quinn jumped.

“Ok Sandi but we have to do it quickly before Danny gets home.” Quinn recovered quickly.

“Ouch that hurt.” Danny laughed.

“Then don’t scare me like that.” Quinn said with an annoyed tone.

“It went fine. They want me to move back in.” Danny said quietly.

“Oh.” Quinn replied softly.

“I told them that maybe it was too soon and we should work up to me moving back in. So expect to be dragged over for dinner and visits.” Danny sighed.

“That sounds nice.” Quinn said. “If you want to move back in with them I won’t be offended. They are your parents.”

“I do but I also don’t want to move out again after another fight.” Danny sighed.

“So are we still going to the movies tonight?” Quinn asked.

“I sat through Fashions of Tomorrow you can sit through AvP2.” Danny snorted.

“Are there any puppies or anything cute?” Quinn groaned.

“Yes there are …but the aliens eat them.” Danny replied.

“Oh you.” Quinn said smacking Danny’s arm that was still wrapped around her waist.



Later that evening Quinn and Danny sat together in Danny’s car in the driveway after the movie. The end of their evening had been marred by someone disapproving of their mild public displays of affection.

“So why was that supposed to be an insult.” Quinn shook her head amused.

“I’m not really sure. It was pretty accurate.” Danny replied with a laugh.

“I mean I thought it would sting or something but it was funny.” Quinn snickered as giggles started rolling in her chest again.

“I liked his response when you told him he was just jealous because he couldn’t watch.” Danny started giggling as well.

“What does that have to do with anything?” Quinn repeated the comment sending both of them into fits of laughter.

“So that’s what I can look forward too, people making me laugh.” Quinn sighed in amusement.

“Well they can get a lot more hateful but as long as you don’t let them, they don’t matter.” Danny shrugged.

“Looks like my Mom is checking on us.” Quinn giggled pointing through the windshield to where Helen had walked out to the car to find out what was taking them so long.

Part 10


Danny rolled over in the bed and wrapped an arm around Quinn who slept peacefully next to her. She snuggled against the nude form and realized she was just as undressed.

:WHAT!: Danny thought as she came awake.

Her mind raced at the lovely body next to her and the sleepily memories came back to her.

Quinn reading from a book of poetry out loud in her room. She was reading softly but the sound traveled and the words took control of Danny’s legs.

“And a voice less loud, thro ’its joys and fears. Than the two hearts beating each to each.” Quinn read as Danny entered the room.

Danny couldn’t speak as Quinn noticed her and stood with a smile that melted resolve. Hands clasped they had gone to the bed and enjoyed each other’s company till the moon waned.

Danny smiled as she remembered the events of the night before until.

“If you two plan on going to school this morning I would suggest you get up and get dressed.” Helen Morgendorffer’s voice came through the door.

:Uh oh.: Danny thought with a groan. Quinn stirred awake and saw her and grinned widely as she wrapped her arms around her lover.

“And not going to school is not really an option unless you want to discuss this turn of events now.” Helen added.

Quinn blushed from her head to her toes and groaned as she lay her head on Danny’s shoulder. “We are so dead.”

“Lets go. I don’t think stalling is going to help matters.” Danny sighed and she climbed out of bed and grabbed her sleeping clothes and quickly dressed. Quinn decided to grab her bathrobe and some clothes to wear to school and darted across the surprisingly empty hallway to the bathroom.

Danny grabbed her clothes for the day and headed downstairs to the shower there and sighed as she passed a whispering Jake and Helen in the dining room.

She waited until after she heard the water turn off above her before coming out of the bathroom and meeting Quinn by the stairs.
“I love you.” Danny said as she glanced toward the dining room nervously.

“No matter what I love you too.” Quinn replied and kissed Danny and together they walked into the dining room.

Jake and Helen were sitting in the kitchen as they entered and neither parent spoke. Quinn glanced over at Danny and then back to her parents.

Helen pointed to the clock. “I think you two need to get breakfast and hurry along to school.”
Jake snorted slightly before clearing his throat with a cough.

“How much trouble are we in?” Quinn asked showing her concerned.

“Family court tonight and I don’t feel at liberty to discuss my case with a defendant.” Helen smirked.

“Family court?” Danny asked.

“It’s their special way of torturing us before they punish us.” Quinn sighed as she grabbed a breakfast shake and offered one to Danny.

“Thanks, so do we get lawyers?” Danny asked as she accepted the can.

“I’m the prosecutor.” Helen grinned like a shark.
:We are so going down.: Danny thought. :Wait! If they plan on me being around long enough to punish that must mean they aren’t kicking me out.:

“I’m ok with this.” Danny said suddenly earning her strange looks from all three Morgendorffers.

“Going for the insanity defense. Crafty.” Jake mused.

“Jake.” Helen sighed.

“We’re going to school now.” Quinn said and she pulled Danny from the room.

Quinn turned to Danny as they got into the Mustang and smirked. “You know something.” She said without any doubt.

“Well a trial seems redundant if they’re going to boot me out. So I’ll take whatever punishment they offer because as far as I’ve seen your parents are fair to a fault.” Danny shrugged.

“So even when we lose we still get to win.” Quinn smiled.

“I’m not so sure I’m going to lose.” Danny protested.

“Trust me we’re going to lose but it’s all a matter of degrees.” Quinn sighed.

“Oh before I forget. What does the tattoo mean?” Danny asked asking about the small lettering on Quinn’s lower back. It was just low enough to be covered by even swimsuit bottoms.
Quinn blushed and answered to softly for Danny to hear. She caught Japanese but everything else was lost in the engine.

“Sorry.” Danny said.

“Always alone.” Quinn blushed even more.

“Oh.” Danny said and understood. “You really thought you wouldn’t ever find anyone.”
Quinn just nodded and Danny pulled over to the side of the rode and pulled Quinn to her and kissed the top of her head.

“See you aren’t so smart after all.” Danny teased.

“I’m just scared I’m going to wake up and all of this will be a fantasy and I’ll be right back where I was before.” Quinn admitted.

“Then I’ll just have to ask you out again.” Danny smirked.

“Promise.” Quinn begged.

“With all my heart.” Danny promised.

“Lets get to school. We don’t need a tardy on top of being caught in bed when we go before the judge.” Quinn smiled.

“Yes ma’am.” Danny said and she pulled back onto the road.



Helen and Jake burst out laughing as soon as they heard the car pull away and Helen held out a twenty to Jake.

“I told you they would last three weeks before breaking.” Jake smirked proudly.

“It did show remarkable restraint. I’m almost curious of what broke the camel’s back.” Helen sighed.

“So I get to be the judge tonight right.” Jake smiled.

“Yes and after they present their argument you’ll find them guilty and we’ll make them wash the cars or something along with grounding them.” Helen smiled.

“Isn’t grounding them just going to give them more time together?” Jake asked curious.

“I’m not a monster Jake.” Helen smiled. “Besides I doubt either of us waited three weeks the first time we were in love.”

“I seem to remember it was our first date.” Jake laughed.

“Oh you cad.” Helen hugged him playfully.



Quinn tried not to spend the day making eyes at Danny every time they passed in the halls something that gave Sandi and Tiffany no end on amusement. Stacy just laughed with a sad and sweet smile and kept asking her what skin lotion she was using with wicked grin.
“But you’re glowing Quinn. I mean it’s like this amazing change. I wonder what could have caused it.” Stacy teased as they entered the meeting room for the afterschool class.

“Stacy!” Quinn sighed happily.

“Hey I have no regular sweetie so that means you have to share so talk.” Stacy demanded.

“It was … explosions and mountains and fireworks and earth shaking.” Quinn said seriously.

“Wow, you two are so lucky.” Stacy sighed with her.

“All now that the lollygaggers are here. Can someone share something that happened to them this week?” Mrs. Barch asked the room.

“Quinn and I got insulted outside the movie theater.” Danny offered as Quinn slid into the desk next to her.

“And the cards say I suppose to ask how you feel about that?” Barch smirked at the cards O’Neil must have provided.

“It was pretty funny. I mean for a straight girl it would have been insulting but the person just listed off the possible physical activities we can do. We thought it was pretty funny.” Danny shrugged.

“It was.” Quinn added with a smile.

“Good that’s the best way to deal with those kind of little people. I bet they really weren’t happy to see their taunts had no negative effect.” Barch said happily.

“That’s an understatement. He punched his own car.” Danny laughed lightly.

“Men.” Barch said in disgust.

“I told my parents.” A quiet boy in the back of the class spoke up.

“And?” Barch said nicely and Quinn smirked at how nice she treated the gay boys compared to straight ones.

“They were under the impression I came out last year.” He said weakly.
Barch nodded with approval.

“I turned a girl down.” Stacy sighed.

“Why?” Barch asked.

“I’m tired of being the girl all the straight girls go to when they want to experiment.” Stacy admitted.

“So you decided to forgo the now and seek out persistent bliss. What in hell does that mean?” Barch growled at the card.

“I think it’s saying that by skipping over immediate gratification Stacy is trying for a relationship that will make her really happy.” Quinn answered smiling at her friend.

“Yes.” Stacy nodded.

“Good and now you, how did your sister take the news?” Barch pointed at a large girl who sighed before speaking.




Danny and Quinn proceeded home with only a dozen or so stops as it seemed neither of them wanted to speed things along this evening.

“So Daria convinced them it was punishing them more than her for her to be grounded.” Danny laughed.

“Her and that harmonica.” Quinn couldn’t help but smile.

“Maybe we should call her and see if she has any ideas for getting our sentences reduced.” Danny smirked.

Quinn rolled her eyes and held her hand like a phone. “Hey Daria I need your help. Mom and Dad caught me and Danny in bed after having sex. Any ideas on how to keep them from losing their minds?”

“Well Quinn has joining the witness relocation program been considered.” Quinn deadpanned making Danny laugh.

“So short of throwing ourselves at the mercy of the court and begging there isn’t anything we can do.” Quinn sighed.

“What’s the worst they can do if they aren’t going to kick me out?” Danny shrugged.

“Try to convince us to not do it again.” Quinn said really quickly and shyly. “I don’t think I could agree to that.”

“Me either. I’m sure I could try but you and your wicked ways would break my will in a matter of minutes.” Danny joked.
Quinn looked over at her smiling.

“Couple of seconds.” Danny sighed.

“That’s better.” Quinn laughed.
They pulled into the driveway and neither of her parents cars where there.

“I’m surprised they left us alone.” Danny said.

“It’s entrapment.” Quinn grinned widely.

“Huh.” Danny asked not understanding her point.

“C’mon, the condemned man gets a final meal.” Quinn said grabbing Danny’s hand and pulling her into the house. Danny made a mental note to explain the joke Quinn had just made later, much later.



“Does the defense have anything it wants the court to consider?” Jake said from his raised seat.

“We throw ourselves on the mercy of the court and ask for understanding. Surely the court can see that a healthy relationship does include a physical as well as emotional connection.” Quinn blushed as she read her prepared speech.

“And also this isn’t some sort term fling. We’re in love, doesn’t that make a difference.” Danny added cursing that she hadn’t prepared a statement as well.

“This implies that the defendants intend to carry on the physical aspect of the relationship after the trial.” Helen said turning to look at the wall when she spoke.

“Do we have to answer that?” Danny whispered over to Quinn.

“Yes we do.” Quinn said giving the same answer to both women.

“Are we allowed to lock them in separate rooms until they go to college?” Jake asked and Quinn caught the smile.

“No Jake.” Helen sighed.

“Fine, two weeks grounding and …. Yard sale.” Jake said with a deep voice.

“Yard sale, what the hell is that?” Danny said during to Quinn who shrugged.

“We’re having a yard sale this weekend and you girls will work it. All day, both days.” Helen smirked.

Quinn and Danny looked at each other before shrugging and turning back.
“Um ok.” Quinn said confused.

“I think we can serve the time.” Danny tried not to smile.

Part 11

Saturday found the two girls setting up several tables and emptying the garage and several large boxes from the basement and unloading and tagging everything with very low prices.
“Just get rid of the stuff.” Jake had asked before leaving to go golfing.

“Do you have any chocolate?” The large woman said leaning on the folding table making it creak.

Quinn looked nervously at the woman confused. “No this is a yard sale. Would you be interested in some scuba gear?”

“But I want some chocolate.” The woman insisted.

“We have some chocolate flavored lip gloss.” Danny said and held out the opened flat that one of Quinn’s admirers had brought for her.

“I’ll take it.” The moo moo clad woman said and she dropped the 5 dollars they were asking and walked off with her purchase.

“She’s not going to eat it is she?” Quinn said stunned.

“I checked, it’s non toxic so if she does she shouldn’t die.” Danny answered.
Quinn groaned when she saw Jane Lane and her brother and various members of his band come walking up the driveway.

“Hi Nick.” Danny called out and waved.

“Hey Quinn.” Jane said evilly and Quinn knew she was in for some teasing of some sort.

“Hey who’s guitar?” Trent asked picking up an old acoustic that Quinn was sure her father hadn’t touched for twenty years. It was marked 25 dollars.

“Yours for 25 bucks.” Danny said not missing a beat.
Jane smirked like the devil herself and rubbed her hands together.

“A buck fifty.” Jane offered.

“What!” Quinn gasped. Danny pushed her to the side gently and looked Jane up and down.

“Hum it’s a really nice guitar maybe we should have it appraised first.” Danny responded.

“Ya it’s an antique. 5 dollars.” Jane sighed.

“Trent play your sister a few sad chords since clearly she has lost her mind.” Danny returned.

“It’s missing strings.” Jane turned and pointed at it. Only to see Trent quickly stringing the guitar.

“Not anymore.” Quinn giggled.

“The paint is all chipped.” Jane offered.

“20.” Danny conceded.

“Are you mental 10.” Jane said forcefully.

“Are you painting without opening a window again?” Danny said with a grin.

Trent strummed a few cords and Jane cocked her head knowingly.
“That’s not the guitars fault.” Danny pointed out as Trent hit a bad cord.

“15.” Jane sighed.

Danny smiled. “18.50.”

“Sold.” Trent said with a grin.

“Now let’s talk about this case of red lipstick.” Jane said as Trent handed over the money for the guitar.

“Eww 50 cents for all.” Quinn made a face at the makeup.

“I’ll take it.” Jane laughed. “So did they test it on bunnies or what?”
Quinn just shrugged and blushed. Jane noticed a lot of items of Quinn’s were out for sale and she guessed that the younger girl was getting rid of her trophy collection of gifts.

“Hey Danny what are the chances you two can come see us play this weekend? We’re headlining the music festival.” Nick asked.

“Can’t we’re grounded. Two weeks doing nothing but hanging out here and school.” Danny tried to look upset but ended up smiling widely.

“Ya it’s terrible.” Quinn added with a grin.

“Daria asked me to come check on you. Is everything ok?” Jane whispered.

“They’re doing crazy experiments on us. Call the government.” Quinn whispered back in a joking tone.

“We’re fine.” Danny smiled and put an arm around Quinn and kissed her cheek lovingly.

“Awwww you two are so cute. I think I’ll go puke somewhere.” Jane smiled.



Danny carried the tables back into the garage as Quinn brought in the items that hadn’t sold. Danny got the tables in and watched Quinn carry the last few items in and dropped the garage door.

“So are you ready for a makeover night.” Quinn smiled.

“Sorry not tonight. Can we do that next weekend? Sitting around selling junk doesn’t make me feel pretty.” Danny sighed.

“It’ll be fun.” Quinn pushed.

“Next weekend ok.” Danny sighed.

“But you promised.” Quinn complained.

“Damn it Quinn please.” Danny snapped.

“Ok.”Quinn said nervously.

:Great job.: Danny thought. “Sorry I’m just tired and grumpy.”

“It’s ok. We can do it next weekend.” Quinn said to quickly.


Danny went upstairs and showered feeling like a complete jerk and tried to think of something to make it up to Quinn for yelling but couldn’t come up with anything truly special.
She entered her room and reached for the light when she caught movement.

“Don’t turn on the light.” Quinn said sounding passionate.

“What are you doing?” Danny smiled.

“I’m sorry I made you mad and I want to make up.” Quinn said deeply.

:Oh that is so tempting.: Danny sighed. “I can’t let you do that.” Quinn sat up in the bed wearing some nightgown that Danny was sure her parents didn’t know she owned.

“Please don’t. I’m sorry.” Quinn said sounding terrified.

“Don’t what?” Danny asked not sure what was occurring.

“I know I’m selfish but I’m really trying to be a good girlfriend. Give me another chance?” Quinn begged.

“What?” Danny said a little too loudly.
Quinn started to cry.

“Easy baby. It was just a little fight. What’s wrong?” Danny said moving to the bed and wrapping her arms around Quinn tenderly.

“You’re dumping me.” Quinn cried.

“I am not.” Danny said strongly. She turned Quinn so they were face to face and kissed her before speaking. “I am not dumping you or breaking up or anything.”

“But …” Quinn said confused.

“I’m sorry I snapped at you and I’m sorry I don’t feel up to doing makeovers but next weekend we’ll do them.” Danny promised.

“But you didn’t want to..” Quinn said looking down at the bed shyly.

“Well I do …but not when you’re scared I’m going to break up if you don’t. That’s a real turn off.” Danny shrugged.

“Oh..” Quinn said sniffling. “So … we’re still together.”

“Yes.” Danny smiled and grabbed a tissue from her nightstand and offered it to Quinn.

“And you still want to.” Quinn grinned weakly nodding to the bed.

“Of course. I’m hooked.” Danny said squeezing Quinn tightly.

“Good. We’re gonna fight again at some point aren’t we.”Quinn said looking like she just realized something.

“Yes. Sometimes I’ll be wrong and other times you’ll be wrong. This time I was wrong.” Danny laughed.

“But we aren’t going to breakup just because of a fight.” Quinn said and Danny knew she was talking to herself.

“I love you.” Danny said strongly.

“I love you too.” Quinn replied and kissed her again and leaned against Danny who fought the urges being brought out by the nightgown.

“So you owe me flowers.” Quinn grinned making Danny smile.

“Ok but flowers tend to lead to other things.” Danny said standing up and pulling Quinn with her.

“Dancing and romance and all kinds of wonderful things.” Danny continued.

“I think dancing is nice and you know my stance on other things.” Quinn replied wickedly.

“Now I think you should put the nightgown away until it won’t cause your father a heart attack and let’s head downstairs and see what he’s burning for dinner.” Danny said sternly.

“Fine.” Quinn sighed. “But I really could use some cuddling tonight. Even if we don’t … you know.” Quinn responded.

“No problem. A night of vegging in front of the TV with my girl sounds like heaven right now.” Danny smiled and Quinn hugged her tighter. :Ok so new project. Help Quinn with her self esteem.: She thought.
Danny guarded the hallway as Quinn ducked back into her room and changed before they headed downstairs and found her parents dancing in the living room smiling.

“They look so incredible together.” Danny smirked.

“As long as they’re just dancing it’s ok.” Quinn grudgingly agreed.

“Well I think your dad is getting lucky tonight.” Danny teased.

“Now I need to wash my brain out. Thank you very much for the nightmares.” Quinn shuddered.



“Do you have any more of that chocolate?” The woman from the day before asked.

“No. All sold out.” Quinn said frowning.

“Damn it I want some chocolate. Go look in the back and see if there is any back there.” The woman demanded.

“This is a yard sale. We don’t have a “back”” Quinn said shaking her head.

“Let me talk to the manager.” The woman demanded and Danny moved next to Quinn and looked concerned.

“Can I help you?” Danny said nicely.

“I want some chocolate and she won’t sell me any.” The woman pointed a stubby fat finger at Quinn.

“We’re all sold out. You might try the store down the street.” Danny said calmly.

“Fine but you just lost a customer.” The woman said as she stalked away.

“Such interesting people live here in Lawndale.” Danny shuddered.

“Be glad you never lived in Highland.” Quinn replied.



“The pastor asked about you at church today. I think he missed seeing you there.” Helen said as they all ate dinner.

“Did you tell him I was being forced to do manual labor and that’s why I’m going to hell now?” Quinn joked.

“Don’t worry sweetie, you’re still half Jewish and we get special treatment.” Jake said with a smile.

“As long as I still get a Christmas tree then I’m ok with it.” Quinn teased him.
Jake and Helen both laughed and Danny found it amusing but an earlier phone call left her with an announcement.

“My folks called and asked if all of us could come over for dinner?” Danny blurted out suddenly.

“I think that would be great for you and Quinn. I don’t think being grounded covers that.” Helen replied with a smile.

“No, I mean … they invited you two as well. They want to meet you.” Danny said.

“Oh that’s nice of them.” Jake said and he glanced at Helen who sighed.

“I think it will be a great chance for both families to get together and get to really know each other.” Helen said through slightly clenched teeth.

:I hope Mom is smart enough to apologize real early in the night.: Danny thought and then she groaned out loud. :I still haven’t told Quinn about what started the fight. So I need to order a couple dozen roses and a card.: Danny thought making a large list of items to have on hand for when she had that talk with Quinn.

“Penny for your thoughts.” Quinn said poking her.

“Oh just deciding what to wear. You could help me pick something out.” Danny smiled.

“Ok so just how far are you willing to go?” Quinn said excitedly.

Danny smirked and was about to answer when she saw Helen trying to hide a smile while Jake pretended to not be hearing the conversation.

“I’ll trust your judgment.” Danny answered carefully.

Part 12


“I don’t care if you’re dying of the black plague Herb if you aren’t dressed and at the table then I will find you and drag you to the table, naked if need be.” Danny said harshly into her cell phone.

“That’s better. I’ll see you tonight.” Danny answered and ended the call.

“Are you done threatening people for a little while?” Quinn smirked and held up the dress to Danny’s body.

“I love you Quinn but 5 more dress and I’ve reached my limit of trying on clothes.” Danny said seriously.

“I love you too and I think this one is perfect. It would go perfect with that choker you wore on our first date.” Quinn said thinking. “And we could have your hair up kind of messy wild to really show off your neck.”

“Yes Quinn.” Danny smiled as she took the dress to try it on.

“Then we can look at shoes.” Quinn called to her as she entered the dressing room.

“Ok but when do I get to see you in your dress?” Danny asked through the door.

“Tonight.” Quinn snickered.

“That doesn’t seem fair.” Danny replied as she returned and showed off the dress that to give Quinn credit fit her perfectly and even she had to admit she looked incredible.

“To bad.” Quinn answered before staring at her with an intensity that made her blush.

“I can’t wait for after dinner.” Danny smiled evilly.



Helen caught Danny shortly after they returned and dragged her into the kitchen and paced for a few seconds before speaking.

“I’m going to try to civil but I’ll admit that your parents are very low on my list of people at the moment.” Helen sighed.

“I figured.” Danny chuckled.

“I will try my hardest to not embarrass you or Quinn tonight.” Helen stated then moved closer and whispered. “ Does Quinn know?”

“I told her a few days ago.” Danny nodded. “She handled it pretty well and I think she plans on rubbing it in their faces how much of a lady she really is.”

“If anything occurs, I’m trusting you to get her away from it.” Helen said calmly.

“I will.” Danny promised.



Danny watched Quinn come down the stairs in the lavender dress that seem to almost match the green one she was wearing and felt her heart catch in her chest.

“Oh my god. My little girl is all grown up.” Jake said in amazement.

“Thank you Daddy.” Quinn smiled radiantly.

“Wow.” Danny whispered.
Quinn just smiled at her tenderly.

“I think we’re ready to go.” Helen said and despite the tension Danny knew she was feeling a look of pride for her daughter was plastered all over the woman’s face.

“You’re beautiful.” Danny said unable to think.

“So are you.” Quinn said and kissed her gently as they walked to the car.

Danny stood in front of her parent’s door and raised her hand to knock. Her hand hovered next to the door for several heartbeats. To say she was nervous was like comparing a match to the sun. Quinn sighed and pressed the small button next to the door and Danny heard the bells ringing on the inside.

“Well be that way Miss. Smarty pants.” Danny teased kindly.

“Relax.” Quinn said calmly.

“I’m trying.” Danny admitted.
The door opened and her father stood dressed in a suit she would never get used to seeing him in.

“Danny.” Greg Todds said surprised.

“Hi Dad.” Danny smiled and pulled Quinn over. “This is Quinn.”

“Hello Mr. Todds.” Quinn smiled and Danny had to smirk at the double take her father did.

“Hello Quinn. It’s a real pleasure to meet you.” Greg spoke in an honest sounding tone.

“I really wanted to meet you and the rest of Danny’s family as well.” Quinn said still smiling but Danny noticed how formally Quinn was carrying herself.

“Well come in and I’ll introduce you.” Greg said smiling and Danny had to fight to keep a grin of her face.

:So that’s how she did it.: She thought. :Some magical switch she can turn on and make guys go all goofy and pliable around her. The perfect mask of woman that makes men want to worship her and women to. Am I staring?:

“Coming.” Quinn said and reached back, taking her hand as Greg started a brief tour of the house.

“I wouldn’t miss this for the world.” Danny smirked as Quinn charmed her father completely.

:They have no clue of what’s about to hit them.: Danny thought amused.

“So Helen I understand you’re a lawyer with one of the firms downtown.” Her father was asking.

“Yes. We deal mostly in civil lawsuits and usage and rights challenges.” Helen answered politely.
Danny started to relax and enjoy the quick tour her father was giving arm in arm with Quinn as Jake and her father discussed various topics. She had them completely tuned out by the time they started on golf.

She didn’t notice they had entered the dining hall until she heard her mother’s voice ring out.
“Danielle!”
Danny watched as her mother beamed at the dress as she approached. Her brother was sitting mouth open staring at Quinn.

“If only Tina and Victoria could see you now.” Susan gushed at her youngest daughter.

“Thanks.” Danny blushed and she nodded to Quinn. “This is Quinn and her parents Helen and Jake Morgendorffer.”

Danny wanted to laugh outright as Susan floundered as Quinn turned her smile onto the older woman and offered her hand almost elegantly.

“I see where Danny gets her looks.” Quinn flattered but somehow it just didn’t sound like the line it was.

“Oh how sweet.” Susan responded clearly shocked by the reality of Quinn clashing with the mental image she had.


They sat around the table and of course Quinn was seated next to Danny directly across from Herb. Some small talk was exchanged between the parents and Quinn leaned over and whispered into Danny’s ear.

“I think Herb wants you to stop staring at my neck and talk to him.” Her voice rang softly.

“Oh.” Danny said and turned to face her brother.

A series of hand gestures later and Danny was completely confused.
Herb groaned. “Your girlfriend is perfect does she have any sisters?” He said resorting to speech when Danny failed to understand what he was trying to signal.

“Yes but she lives in Boston.” Danny laughed lightly.

“That’s sweet.” Quinn smiled making Herb blush.

The exchange reminded the parents that they were there.
“So Quinn I understand you’re a senior as well.” Susan stated.

“Yes Ma’am.” Quinn responded.

“Call me Susan. Are you as into stars and planets as our Danielle?” Susan asked nicely.

“No Susan. I’m more into fashion. I’m looking into a possible design or trend predication type career.” Quinn answered.

“I see your tastes are impeccable. I don’t think I’ve ever seen two lovelier young women.” Susan beamed at Danny.

“It helps when the person wearing the clothes is perfect.” Quinn smiled at Danny causing her to blush red.

:This isn’t fair. I’m supposed to be the strong one and she’s making me blush and act like a lovesick 14 year old.: Danny thought as she melted.
Danny noticed her mother took the compliant quite well.

“I hope you can forgive us the wrong impression we had of you Quinn. It never occurred to us that the parents would take a failed date as badly as the young man did.” Susan apologized.
Danny tensed and glanced at Helen and Jake to make sure they were calm.

“I made a lot of mistakes and caused a lot of hurt feelings.” Quinn conceded and her tone was one of understanding.

The serving of the soup interrupted them and Danny sighed as she looked down at the collection of silverware around her plate. Quinn cleared her throat quietly and Danny glanced over and saw the spoon that Quinn’s hand rested on.
Quinn nodded slightly and Danny chose the spoon and she saw her mother notice the exchange and saw approval.
:Of course Quinn knows the rules and that counts for a lot. I’ll bet she thinks Quinn will rub off on me.: Thought amused until she realized she was holding the spoon exactly like Quinn and sitting the same as well. :Well damn … that’s really not fair.:

“I love faki soupa and this is better than any restaurant in town serves.” Quinn said nicely.

“Thank you our chef prides himself on his soups more than anything.” Susan smiled.

“So Danny tells me you speak French Quinn.” Susan smiled.

“Juste mais je le comprends mieux que je le parle.” Quinn responded.

“Parfait!” Susan replied. Danny almost jerked in surprise.

“Thank you.” Quinn accepted the compliant with a smile.

The dinner went remarkably well with her parents being properly apologetic and floored by the amazing job Quinn was doing in impressing them.
:It’s all dress up. She can move between this and sitting on the couch with a bowl of popcorn in sweats like it’s child’s play.: Danny thought. :It’s is child’s play to her. Look at her move so perfectly just like in the movies. She’s a picture of elegance and grace… and she’s mine.:
Danny spent the rest of the night smiling widely.


As the night began to wind down Susan pulled Danny away from the party to talk privately.

“Well.” Danny didn’t try to wipe the smile off her face.

“She’s what every parent wants for their children. Smart, funny and sophisticated and of course gorgeous and completely in love with you. I hope what happened didn’t hurt your relationship.” Susan said proudly.

“It didn’t. She understands you were just worried and she understands there are some people that have some grudges against her.” Danny sighed.

“Good. I won’t keep you but I hope you know just how much tonight meant to me. Seeing you like this is like a dream come true.” Susan smiled.

“…” Danny couldn’t come up with an answer.

“I’ll hold onto it when your father picks the activities of the next visit.” Susan sighed.

“Don’t worry, I haven’t seen any car or truck shows in town.” Danny teased her mother ruthlessly.

“So I can hope for some small favor from above still.” Susan chuckled.


Danny slid next to Quinn on the couch and sighed as she snuggled tightly against her under the blanket as they watched some black and white romance movie.
:This is perfect.: Danny thought. :Even with Jake snoring six feet away.:

“So how’d I do?” Quinn laughed lightly.

“You were … I can’t even describe it. I love you.” Danny said warmly.

“I love you to and I think they liked me.” Quinn smirked.

“They loved you and my mother thinks you’re perfect.” Danny replied.

“All part of my evil plan.” Quinn sighed and Danny played with her hair gently as the hero declared his love for the farmer’s daughter and offered to give up his fortune to be with her.

Part 13
Quinn knew that her quiet evening with Danny was gone when Stacy showed up on her doorstep in the middle of a thunderstorm looking like a drowned rat.
She pulled the drenched teen into the house and called for Danny to bring towels. Stacy was crying and seemed unable to catch her breath.

“What are you doing out in this storm?” Quinn scolded as she accepted the first of the towels from Danny and started trying to wrap it around her friend. Stacy just looked crushed.

“Upstairs, she needs to take a hot shower and a change of clothes.” Danny advised and the three girls moved upstairs.

“Get in the shower and dry off afterwards. I’ll make some cocoa.” Quinn sighed pushing Stacy into the bathroom.

“I’ll get her a change of clothes. My closet or yours?” Danny inquired.

“Mine.” Quinn said as she started downstairs for the hot cocoa.


When she returned upstairs Stacy was out with a towel wrapped around her head looking miserable.

“Stacy drink this.” Quinn said motherly.
The girl took the cup and sipped it.

“I put the big marshmallows in it just like you like.” Quinn promised.

“Ok Stacy besides deciding to drown yourself how’s your day going?” Danny asked nicely.

“I can’t believe I kissed her.” Stacy wailed.

“Uh oh.” Danny sighed.

“Who?” Quinn pushed.

“Sandi.” Stacy sobbed against Danny.

“I’ll call her.” Quinn said calmly. She picked up the phone and started dialing as she stepped into the hall while Danny tried to calm Stacy down.


“Quinn I need your help.” Sandi answered the phone on the first ring.

“What’s up?” Quinn asked concerned.

“I lost Stacy.” Sandi sighed.

“What?” Quinn laughed.

“She was over at my house and we were hanging out and then she kissed me and I tried to let her down easy but she freaked out and ran into the rain and now I can’t find her.” Sandi sounded upset.

“She’s over here so go home and dry off.” Quinn instructed.

“Is she all right?” Sandi asked.

“She’s fine. A little freaked out but I think she’s going to be ok.” Quinn replied.

“I’m so sorry I was just surprised and I told her I still wanted to be friends.” Sandi sighed into the phone.

“I’ll talk to her. She might be weird for a few days but well you know.” Quinn said.

“Yes I do and I don’t plan on losing her, besides when hasn’t Stacy been weird.” Sandi dismissed.

“I’ll talk to you tomorrow.” Quinn laughed.

“Tell her I’m glad she’s ok.” Sandi said before the call ended.



Quinn returned to find Stacy mostly calmed and decided the quick rip was the easiest way. “Sandi was out looking for you so I sent her home. She doesn’t want to date you but she still wants to be friends.”
Stacy’s lip trembled but she just nodded.

“Hey where did this come from? I thought you weren’t into Sandi.” Danny asked.

“I just … I don’t know. I really need a girlfriend.” Stacy admitted sadly.

Quinn couldn’t stop the giggle from escaping. Danny managed to keep it to a smile.

“It’s not funny.” Stacy said annoyed.

“So new project. Help Stacy find a nice girl.” Danny replied.

“Not TO nice.” Stacy blushed.
This sent Quinn and Danny into fits of laughter.



Danny drove Stacy home after they had lifted her spirits enough for them to see glimpses of the overly happy girl they knew.

“I’m sorry to ruin your night.” Stacy said.

“It’s ok. You’re our friend and you needed a shoulder to cry on. It’s cool.” Danny dismissed.

“I still can’t believe I kissed Sandi.” Stacy laughed sadly.

“She is cute.” Danny shrugged.

“It wasn’t that. Ok well it was but I’m jealous.” Stacy admitted.

“Of me and Quinn.” Danny said understandingly.

“No of Tiffany and Jeffy.” Stacy rolled her eyes.

“I deserved that.” Danny sighed.

Danny turned onto Stacy’s street and started toward the house.

“Just put it down as a brief lapse of judgment.” Danny offered.

“I can’t wait to get out of this town. Any place would be better than here.” Stacy sighed.



“How’s Stacy?” Quinn asked as soon as Danny got back.

“She’s feeling better but we really need to help her get a girlfriend and maybe try to include her … as a friend.” Danny hinted.

“What you mean I can’t date you both! I had no idea that being in love had this many rules.” Quinn laughed as she wrapped her arms around Danny.

“It could be worse. Sandi could have turned out gay to.” Danny smirked back.

“Please she would be writing letters to people to change the shades on the rainbow.” Quinn smiled.